Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/18/2011

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Men News

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ARAB CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Arab Club Championships Standings

Group A
1. ASS Sale			2-0
2. Al Riyadi			1-0
3. Al Gharrafah			1-1
4. Sharjah			0-1
5. CRB Dar El-B.			0-2
Group B
1. Champville			2-0
2. ASU			1-0
3. Al Karkh			1-1
4. Banijas			1-1
5. Al Sahel			0-1
6. Al Ahli			0-2

Victories for Champville, Karkh and Gharrafah on Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Champville - Ahli 113:94
Champville recorded the second straight win at the Arab Club Championship. They breezed past Omani Ahli in Group B. Garnett Thompson (207-F/C-80, college: Providence) stepped up with 30 points and 8 boards to pace the Lebanese powerhouse.
Champville had to overcome a resistant start from the Omani team early in the game. The Lebanese team posted a 28:20 lead after ten minutes. Champville limited their opponents to 10 points in the second term and stretched the margin to as many as 27 points at halftime 57:30. Champville dominated after the big break easily opening a 30+ advantage and cruised to the win at the end. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) provided 29 points, while Jasmon Youngblood (195-G-84, college: Kent St.) contributed 12 points in the victory. Scott Thompson (213-F/C) responded with 30 points for Ahli.

Banijas - Karkh 79:80
Karkh earned the first win at the Arab Club Championship in UAE. They overcame hosting Banijas tonight to improve at 1-1 record in preliminary Group B. Banijas fell at 1-1 record after the defeat.
The Iraqi team secured a narrow 17:16 lead after a close first quarter. But the hosts quickly spurred in front in the second term. They grabbed a 39:32 lead at the interval. Banijas remained in front throughout the third term. The UAE team entered the final period up by a single point. But led by Chudney Gray (188-G-78, agency: Promotex, college: St.John's) Karkh eked out an important victory at the end. Chudney Gray stepped up with 29 points to pace the charge. Norman Nolan (202-F/C-76, college: Virginia) had 22 points, while Ahmed Saad notched 11 points in the win. Darrel Pitterfield replied with 22 points and 9 rebounds for Banijas. Cyril Vakenda chipped in 19 points, while Ibrahim Khalfan (181-F-79) had 13 points in the loss.

CRB Dar El-Beida Gharrafah 73:75

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ARGENTINA

Latinbasket.com All-Argentinian LigaA Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

Latinbasket.com All-Argentinian LigaA 1st Team 2011

Gutierrez

Sanchez

Jackson

Galindo

Kammerichs

Player of the Year: Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) of Obras
Guard of the Year: Pepe Sanchez (193-G-77) of Estudiantes
Forward of the Year: Federico Kammerichs (203-F/C-80) of Regatas C.
Center of the Year: Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) of Obras
Domestic Player of the Year: Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) of Obras
Import Player of the Year: David Jackson (196-G-82) of La Union
Newcomer of the year: Miguel Gerlero (192-G-88) of Atenas
Most Improved Player of the year: Alexis Elsener (196-G-88) of Obras
6th Man of the Year: Juan Espil (194-G-68) of Estudiantes
Defensive Player of the Year: Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) of Obras
Coach of the Year: Julio Cesar Lamas of Obras

1st Team
G: Pepe Sanchez (193-77) of Estudiantes
G: David Jackson (196-82) of La Union
F: Alexander David Galindo (198-85) of Libertad S.
F/C: Federico Kammerichs (203-80) of Regatas C.
F/C: Juan Gutierrez (205-83) of Obras

2nd Team
G: Bruno Labaque (183-77) of Atenas
G: Javier Martinez (189-78) of Regatas C.
G: Mariano Byro (195-82) of Lanus
F: Leonardo Gutierrez (200-78) of Penarol
C: Robert Battle (204-81) of Libertad S.

Honorable Mention
Joseph Bunn (198-F/C-75) of Argentino
Byron Johnson (201-F/C-80) of Monte Hermoso
Jerome Meyinsse (206-F/C-88) of Club 9
Alejandro Zilli (200-F-82) of Sionista
Hernando Salles (188-G-79) of Monte Hermoso
Gabriel Mikulas (201-F-80) of La Union
Diego Lo Grippo (198-F-78) of Quimsa
Hakeem Rollins (202-F/C-83) of Gimnasia CR
Martin Leiva (208-F/C-80) of Penarol
Ruben Wolkowyski (207-C-73) of Libertad S.
James Williams (204-F/C-79) of Atenas

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Pepe Sanchez (193-77) of Estudiantes
G: Javier Martinez (189-78) of Regatas C.
F/C: Federico Kammerichs (203-80) of Regatas C.
F: Leonardo Gutierrez (200-78) of Penarol
F/C: Juan Gutierrez (205-83) of Obras

All-Imports Team
G: David Jackson (196-82) of La Union
F: Alexander David Galindo (198-85) of Libertad S.
F/C: Joseph Bunn (198-75) of Argentino
C: Robert Battle (204-81) of Libertad S.
F/C: James Williams (204-79) of Atenas

All-Defensive Team
Pepe Sanchez (193-G-77) of Estudiantes
Matias Lescano (196-G/F-79) of Atenas
Federico Kammerichs (203-F/C-80) of Regatas C.
Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) of Obras
Robert Battle (204-C-81) of Libertad S.

Latinbasket.com All-Argentinian TNA Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

Latinbasket.com All-Argentinian TNA 1st Team 2011

Cornley

Ferreyra

Oprandi

Elias Saad

Miller

Player of the Year: Jamelle Cornley (196-F-87) of Ciclista
Guard of the Year: Nicolas Ferreyra (185-G-85) of Quilmes MP
Forward of the Year: Jamelle Cornley (196-F-87) of Ciclista
Center of the Year: Derrick Miller (202-C/F-78) of Bragado
Domestic Player of the Year: Nicolas Ferreyra (185-G-85) of Quilmes MP
Import Player of the Year: Jamelle Cornley (196-F-87) of Ciclista
Coach of the Year: Leandro Ramella of Alvear

1st Team
G: Nicolas Ferreyra (185-85) of Quilmes MP
G: Bruno Oprandi (192-85) of Ciclista
G: Fabian Elias Saad (190-83) of San Mart.C.
F: Jamelle Cornley (196-87) of Ciclista
C/F: Derrick Miller (202-78) of Bragado

2nd Team
G: Juan Gandoy (184-82) of Alvear
F: Daniel Chaher (192-78) of Gimnasia VP
F: Sergio Ravina (194-86) of Firmat SF
F: Anthony Glover (197-79) of San Mart.C.
F/C: Jazz Cowan (205-83) of Union Progr.

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Nicolas Ferreyra (185-85) of Quilmes MP
G: Bruno Oprandi (192-85) of Ciclista
G: Fabian Elias Saad (190-83) of San Mart.C.
F: Sergio Ravina (194-86) of Firmat SF
C: Mauro Negri (200-81) of San Mart.MJ

All-Imports Team
F: Jamelle Cornley (196-87) of Ciclista
F: Jason Osborne (204-74) of Alvear
F/C: Jazz Cowan (205-83) of Union Progr.
C/F: Derrick Miller (202-78) of Bragado
F: Anthony Glover (197-79) of San Mart.C.

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AUSTRALIA

Reigning Wildcats MVP Kevin Lisch re-signs for two years - by Eurobasket News
The Perth Wildcats are delighted to announce that 2010/11 club Most Valuable Player and 2009/10 Grand Final MVP Kevin Lisch (188-G, agency: Warren Sports International, college: St.Louis) has re-signed with the 'Cats for the next two NBL seasons.

Lisch has had an outstanding start to his professional basketball career after playing in college at Saint Louis University with his first two seasons in Australia in the NBL seeing him make a massive immediate impact.

In his rookie season, Lisch went on to star in the Wildcats' record fifth NBL championship with an MVP performance in the Grand Final series win over Wollongong.

He backed that up with another terrific season in 2010/11 that saw him share the Gordon Ellis Medal as the Perth Wildcats' MVP along with co-captain Shawn Redhage.

The import guard celebrated his 25th birthday yesterday by signing on with the Perth Wildcats for a further two seasons in a deal that makes him the longest serving import at the club since the legendary Ricky Grace (Redhage became an Australian citizen in his third season with the Wildcats).

The signing of Lisch comes on the heels of stars Damian Martin, Cameron Tovey and Jesse Wagstaff all agreeing to three-year deals just prior to the free agency deadline on Friday.

Perth Wildcats CEO Nick Marvin is delighted that Lisch decided to keep his future in Perth for at least the next two seasons.

'Kevin is one of the most selfless, popular, dedicated and likeable people that you could ever have part of your organisation, and that's not even taking into account what he offers as a player, and we are delighted that he signed on for two more years, and did so on his birthday,' Marvin said.

'Kev showed how important he was to our team when he stepped up big-time once Shawn Redhage was injured and then showed his quality in the Finals in our series with the Breakers. He is a key part of our push now to remain in the championship race.'

Lisch has always maintained that he wanted to be playing in a situation that he loved, and he could think of nowhere in the world he would rather continue to play than the Perth Wildcats so he had little trouble making the decision that he wanted to stay.

'It was a pretty easy decision when you have a professional organisation like this starting from the top and you have a coach like Bevo who is just so much fun to play for, and finally teammates you want to be around every day,' Lisch said.

'It's kind of a no-brainer in the end. First and foremost the organisation is fantastic, but then you add in the fans who - win, lose or draw - are there for you and it's just a beautiful place in the world. It just doesn't get better than this.'

Lisch has played off one-year deals in his first two seasons with the Wildcats and he's now delighted to have that security of a two-year deal this time around.

'Nick just told me that I've now been here the longest that any import has since Ricky Grace here in Perth and I probably have about 30 years to go to catch him, but still knowing that a club wants to keep you, and knowing that you want to be with them, is just a great opportunity,' he said.

'It's definitely nice having that security but my motivation in playing basketball isnt to focus on getting that next contract, it's just nice knowing I'll be here for two years.'

Lisch is now glad that the majority of his teammates from last season will also be returning as they enter the 2011/12 season with a sense of unfinished business following the semi-final series loss to eventual champions New Zealand.

'Knowing that most of the guys will be back was a big factor. I had a feeling a lot of them would stay so it made the decision easier, but you know too that with an organisation like this that whoever you bring in is going to fit that mould of good people,' he said.

'My motivation is now more than ever on more team success after seeing New Zealand win it this year. I couldnt even watch that Grand Final series because it was tough knowing that we were right there, but didnt get it done. That taste in our mouth is going to stay with us until we reach it again.'

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

Standings - ABA

ABA Standings

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

CJ Bruton returns to Puerto Rico, Quebradillas - by Eurobasket News
CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) is back to Puerto Rico after one year. The veteran guard signed a deal with Quebradillas Pirates and joined his countrymate Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.), who also arrived this week. Bruton heads to Quebradillas from the New Zealand Breakers, where he spent 2010/11 season. He helped them win the NBL title averaging 11 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists. It was the fourth NBL title for Bruton in his career.
CJ Bruton already was a member of Quebradillas and it was last season. He helped them reach BSN Semifinals. In 24 games Bruton had 14 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 6.4 apg. He ended as the league's No.1 in assists. Bruton already played his first BSN game of the season helping Quebradillas beat Coamo 91-87 on the road. He had 14 points with just one miss for 29 minutes on the court.

Mark Worthington moves from Guaynabo to Quebradillas - by Eurobasket News
Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.) is a new member of Quebradillas. The Australian forward signed a deal for rest of the season. Wortho is coming from Guaynabo, where he spent last month and a half. He appeared 12 times in BSN averaging 10.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.7 assists.
Mark Worthington spent 2010/11 season with the Gold Coast Blaze. He was one of their best players with 16.8 ppg, 7 rpg and 1.7 apg. Wortho has experience from Europe as he played for Brose Baskets Bamberg year and a half ago. In the past, he was a member of the Melbourne Tigers, Melbourne South Dragons and Sydney Kings.
Mark Worthington already made his debut with Quebradillas. He had 11 points and 8 rebounds in 91-87 win against Coamo.

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BAHRAIN

Ahli beats Manama - by Yousef Ahmed

MAYTHAM Jameel poured in a game-high 33 points to lift champions Al Ahli to a resounding 92-79 victory over bitter rivals Manama last night on the final day of the regular season in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League. Jameel was on fire in the contest, connecting on 10-of-18 from the floor, including a perfect 8-for-8 from the free-throw line. He buried five of Ahli's 15 three-pointers in the game, and buried some key baskets in the second half that helped them maintain a double-digit advantage and stave off all Manama rallies.

Former National Basketball Association veteran Lamond Murray chipped in with 25 points. He also grabbed an impressive 22 rebounds for Ahli. Mahood Akbar added a quick 17 markers. Like Jameel, Akbar buried five triples, all of which came in the first half before spraining his ankle late in the second quarter and sitting out the rest of the game.

The result helped Ahli improve to a 12-4 win-loss record, and it gave them a morale boost heading into the six-team play-off round, which begins on Friday. They move on to the next stage as second seeds, bettered only by Muharraq.

The win was also an appropriate welcoming gift for their new coach Mindaugas Lukosius from Lithuania, who yesterday was making his debut on the Ahli sideline.

'I am satisfied with this win,' Lukosius told the GDN. 'It was a very important one for us as we now head into the round of six and then hopefully on to the final four.

'Surely there are some difficulties in joining a team this late in the season, but I believe there is still time for us to come together and be our best.

Pressure

'There is added pressure on me knowing that they are the back-to-back champions, but I am a maximalist, and when I decided to come here we agreed that this is our only goal, to repeat as champions once more.'

With the regular season now complete, the stage is set for the six-team league play-offs, which features a single round-robin. Top seeds Muharraq take on sixth-ranked Nuwaidrat in the first game on Friday, followed by Ahli going head to head with fifth seeds Isa Town. Action continues on Saturday with Manama battling Al Hala in a match-up between third and fourth seeds.

The top four clubs at the end of this stage then move on to the Golden Square semi-finals.

Ahli came out firing in last night's contest and took a commanding 37-19 lead after the first quarter. An Akbar three and a Murray lay-up then gave them their biggest lead, 59-31, late in the second period, before Manama strung together six straight points to end the half.

Manama came roaring back after the break, going on an 11-2 run, capped by a three-pointer from American professional Darius Rice, to make it 61-48. Murray, however, answered with his own trey to help ward off Manama's charge.

Manama managed to cut the deficit to 12, 69-57, late in the third quarter, but Jameel made another long-range bomb to put Ahli ahead 72-59 heading into the fourth. They cruised the rest of the way, as Manama got no closer than 13.

Rice paced his team with 24 points in defeat, while star Bahraini big man Ahmed Mutawa added 20 and guard Bader Abdulla Malabes had 12.

'I thought we played with big energy in the first quarter, but after we lost Mahmood, the rhythm changed,' Lukosius said. 'In the end, we played with a lot of confidence, and they showed a good focus to get the win.'

Source GDN BY PATRICK SALOMON , Posted on Wednesday, May 18, 2011

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BELGIUM

Aalstar Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Generali Okapi Aalstar has added the Belgian league's leading scorer Stefon Jackson (196-G-85, college: UTEP) for the 2011-2012 season. Jackson led the league in scoring with an average of 16.3 ppg to go with his 6.3 rpg.
Coach Brad Dean who this weekend was voted Belgian League coach of the year now has 5 players on the roster for next season, Chris Young, Jorn Stenbach, Chris Copeland (Aalstar leading scorer) and Alex Ruoff.
According to the team's press release negotiations with present and possible future players will be restarted after the playoffs.

Jorn Stenback came in 3rd in the Belgian Player of the Year voting and Chris Young was voted league MVP by the coaches.

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BOSNIA

Djedovic, Gordic and Tanjevic to leave Lottomatica? - by Nedzad Kladusak
After Lottomatica lost its last game against Montepaschi Siena the president of Lottomatica announced
substantial financial cuts. Despite the team from Rome played a great EL season one of the best basketball experts, Bogdan Tanjevic
seems to be among those who will leave the team. Nemanja Gordic and Nihad Djedovic who missed several crucial games to a fracture of his hand have also been subject of rumours claiming that they will leave the team after it failed to qualify for another Euroleague.

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BRAZIL

Head Coach Nestor Garcia does not stay with Minas and goes to Venezuela - by Paulo Freire
Argentine coach Nestor Garcia decides to leaves the Minas and will sign with Marinos de Anzoategui, from Venezuela where he was in 2008. After taking the Minas to the 10th position in the NBB, they were eliminated by Joinville in the quarter-final, the head coach sign with the club of Venezuela, who incidentally just dismiss another Argentine coach who also got some Brazilian connections: Fernando Duro, assistant coach of Ruben Magnano in the Brazilian National Team in the last Fiba World Turkey.

Good luck to the Minas, who will need a good coach to lead the process of renewal their roster in Belo Horizonte.

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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Active weekend in the Kenny FUNNY Thomas 2011 Basketball League - by David Edole
BVI Basketball Federation
Monday, May 16th, 2011 at 4:07 pm

It was an active weekend in the Kenny FUNNY Thomas 2011 Basketball League with five games being played in the various divisions.

May 14
Junior Division
Young Gunners defeated Another Level 73 71. The Gunners Shamoii Dagou got the player of the game award for his 19 points, 4 rebounds, 2 blocks, 2 steals and 1 assist.
Mervin Potter was the star for Another Level, finishing the game with 21 points, 11 rebounds, 1 block, 9 steals and 4 assists.

40 Plus Division
The BVI Disciples overturned the USVI Gunners 42 40. A winners trophy was presented to the BVI Disciples. The Disciples Glenroy Jennings received a trophy for scoring the most points while his teammate received and award for the most assists.
The Gunners did not leave empty-handed as their Roy Toman received a trophy for collecting the most rebounds.

Senior Division
Mega Mix toppled East 85 points to 78. Mega Mixs Halstead Chiverton (193-G-82, college: Clinton CC (NY)) Jr. won player of the game honours with his 22 points, 8 rebounds, 7 steals and 6 assists.

May 15
Junior Division
Kishaun Fahie lead his team, Jr. East, to a 60 56 victory over Hawks. Fahie was voted player of the game for his 16 points, 4 blocks, 4 steals and 2 assists

Senior Division
Against The Odds blew by Speed Zone 80 61 in a game which saw player of the game Nathaniel Malone score six 3-pointers in scoring hit total of 20 points while collecting 4 rebounds, making 3 steals and making 3 assists.

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BULGARIA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Aaron HARPER
  Levski
  (199-G/F-81)
  Avg: 23.3

1. Harper, Levski	23.3
2. Lilov, Rilski S.	20.9
3. Dimitrov, Spartak	19.2
4. Naydenov, Chernom.	16.8
5. Davidov, Balkan	15.7
6. Bozov, Balkan	15.5
7. Govedarov, Tundja	14.9
8. Yanev, Cherno More	14.6
9. James, Lukoil A.	13.9
10. Stankov, Spartak	13.8

Rebounds Per Game

Nikolay VARBANOV
  Tundja
  (209-C-85)
  Avg: 10.5

1. Varbanov, Tundja	10.5
2. Yanev, Cherno More	8.6
3. Todorov, Spartak	7.4
4. Peterson, Lukoil A.	7.0
5. Kolev, Cherno More	6.9
6. Radojevic, Rilski	6.9
7. Georgiev, Levski	6.8
8. Morton, Balkan	6.5
9. Dimitrov, Spartak	6.4
10. Cekovski, Levski	6.2

Assists Per Game

Jason CROWE
  Levski
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 5.6

1. Crowe, Levski	5.6
2. Alexiev, Cherno M.	4.5
3. Heath, Lukoil A.	4.1
4. Dyakovski, Spartak	4.0
5. James, Lukoil A.	3.9
6. Bozov, Balkan	3.8
7. Govedarov, Tundja	3.6
8. Lilov, Rilski S.	3.4
9. Gruev, Rilski S.	3.3
10. Avramov, Lukoil A.	3.2

Steals Per Game

Jason CROWE
  Levski
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Crowe, Levski	2.4
2. Heath, Lukoil A.	2.3
3. Zahariev, Chernomo.	2.1
4. James, Lukoil A.	1.9
5. Bozov, Balkan	1.9
6. Green, Lukoil A.	1.8
7. Radionov, Tundja	1.8
8. Marinov, Balkan	1.6
9. Bowman, Lukoil A.	1.6
10. Dimitrov, Spartak	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Krum DOYCHINOV
  Balkan
  (206-C-86)
  Avg: 1.2

1. Doychinov, Balkan	1.2
2. Radojevic, Rilski	1.0
3. Varbanov, Tundja	1.0
4. Mijovic, Rilski S.	0.7
5. Cole, Levski	0.7
6. Iliev, Cherno More	0.6
7. Yanev, Cherno More	0.6
8. Banev, Lukoil A.	0.6
9. Petkov, Tundja	0.6
10. Vaklinov, Rilski	0.6

NBL Semifinals, Game 3: Levski sweeps Tundja with 3-0, Rilski hands first loss to Lukoil Academik - by Eurobasket News
Third games of the NBL Semifinals were played on Monday and Tuesday. Levski became the first finalist after they swept Tundja with perfect 3-0. Levski celebrated 72-101 road win in Game Three. On the other side, Rilski handed first loss of the season to Lukoil Academik 82-72. They came to 1-2 now and fourth game is scheduled for Thursday. Rilski will be the host again.

Tundja - Levski 72-101 (0-3)
The game was mostly controlled by Levski. Tundja was better in second period 23-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Tundja's 32. Levski players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. It was an exceptional evening for American swingman Aaron Harper (199-81, college: Mississippi, agency: Strategic Sports) who led the winners and scored 25 points and 5 rebounds. His fellow American import center Donald Cole (204-81, college: Sam Houston St., agency: Edge Sports) accounted for 19 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side. Guard Martin Durchev (200-87) came up with 23 points and 5 rebounds and international guard Pavel Marinov (197-88, agency: Interperformances) added 12 points and 6 assists respectively for Tundja in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Tundja: M.Durchev 23+5reb+1ast, P.Marinov 12+1reb+6ast, S.Finzgar 11+5reb+1ast, N.Tmusic 11+6reb, D.Sattler 7+5reb+4ast, S.Govedarov 4+2reb+2ast
Levski: A.Harper 25+5reb+2ast, D.Cole 19+5reb+3ast, S.Georgiev 15+8reb+1ast, S.Slaveykov 11+2ast, Z.Georgiev 11+2ast, A.Velikov 9+8reb+6ast

Rilski Sportist - Lukoil Academik 82-72 (1-2)
The game was mostly controlled by Rilski Sportist. Lukoil Academik managed to win third quarter 24-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Rilski Sportist won last quarter 23-14. They made 20-of-23 free shots (87.0 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for Serbian forward Vladimir Mijovic (207-F-84) who led his team to a victory scoring 27 points and 7 rebounds. International swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88) helped adding 14 points and 6 rebounds. The best for the losing side was the former international swingman Todor Stoykov (198-77, agency: Interperformances) with 24 points and American swingman Devin Green (201-82, college: Hampton) scored 16 points and 7 rebounds. Four Lukoil Academik players scored in double figures. Lukoil Academik's coach Jovica Arsic rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Lukoil Academik: T.Stoykov 24+4reb, D.Green 16+7reb+3ast, T.Peterson 14+8reb+2ast, B.Heath 10+1reb+4ast, B.Sundov 5+4reb+1ast, L.Mack 2+2reb
Rilski Sportist: V.Mijovic 27+7reb, D.Karadzovski 14+2reb, I.Lilov 14+6reb+2ast, A.Gruev 9+1reb+3ast, M.Marinov 8+1reb+2ast, D.Marojevic 5+6reb

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CROATIA

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	14.6
6. Sedmak, Basketbo.	14.3
7. Veikalas, BK Prost.	14.1
8. Blazek, B&W Opava	14.0
9. Kotas, USK Praha	13.7
10. Field, BC Kolin	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Boris MENO
  Basketbo.
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Meno, Basketbo.	10.4
2. Houska, BK Decin	8.6
3. Landry, BK Prost.	8.5
4. Arnold, BK Pardu.	7.7
5. Burke, NH Ostrava	7.6
6. Spagrud, NH Ostra.	7.3
7. Frana, Plzen	7.1
8. Kramny, Svitavy	6.9
9. Gadri, BK Prostejov	6.9
10. Klimes, USK Praha	6.7

Assists Per Game

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

1. Vrubl, Plzen	6.0
2. Lawrence, BK Prost.	5.2
3. Jones, BC Kolin	3.8
4. Carnecky, B&W O.	3.7
5. Hatcher, BK Decin	3.5
6. Kotas, USK Praha	3.4
7. Sanders, BK Decin	3.3
8. Maio, Basketbo.	2.9
9. Channels, Novy Jic.	2.7
10. Macela, Svitavy	2.7

Steals Per Game

Lukas KOTAS
  USK Praha
  (194-F-84)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Kotas, USK Praha	1.9
2. Wright, BK Pardu.	1.8
3. Smith, BC Kolin	1.7
4. Holloway, Basket.	1.7
5. Hampton, BK Pardu.	1.6
6. Sirina, B&W Opava	1.6
7. Lawrence, BK Prost.	1.4
8. Vrubl, Plzen	1.4
9. Landry, BK Prost.	1.4
10. Gajdosik, Basket.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Martin MIKLOSIK
  B&W O.
  (226-C-86)
  Avg: 1.2

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

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Calipari in Dominican Republic - by Oscar Peralta
Coach John Calipari today was officially presented as the Dominican Republic National team coach. The press conference was help today in the Dominican Republic. Calipari was accompany by Orlando Antigua and Rod Strickland who will also serve as his assistants in the national team. Del Harris will also be an assistant but couldn't make the trip. The Dominican will have great leadership with Calipari and his staff as they will try to earn a ticket to the Olympics next year.

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FRANCE

Chalon extend Blake Schilb - by Eurobasket News
Newly crowned winners of Coupe de France Chalon ensured the services of one of their key player for the next season. Chalon signed a contract extension with Blake Schilb (201-G-83, college: Loyola, IL). The 27-year-old guard has a strong season with Chalon. He tallies 14.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.6 steals per Pro A game. He will enter his third straight season with Chalon. Earlier Blake Schilb had played for Nymburk in Czech Republic. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Czech League Guard of the Year back in 2009.

Gelabale and Mejia pick up MVP awards in France - by Eurobasket News
Mickael Gelabale (201-F-83) is named the best French player of the ProA 2010/11 season. At the same time, Sammy Mejia (198-G-83, college: De Paul) got the non-French MVP award.
Mickael Gelabale is a member of ASVEL. He appeared 30 times in the league so far averaging 13.8 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2 assists. ASVEL finished regular season as No.6 with 17-13 record. They will meet Chalon in the Quarterfinals.
Sammy Mejia helped Cholet win the regular season 22-8 record. He had 18 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 4 apg for 30 games. Cholet will play against Le Mans in the QFinals.

French MVP
1. Mickael Gelabale (Villeurbanne)
2. Yannick Bokolo (191-G-85) (Gravelines)
3. Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) (Roanne)

Non-French MVP
1. Sammy Mejia (Cholet)
2. Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) (Nancy)
3. Blake Schilb (201-G-83, college: Loyola, IL) (Chalon)

Kyle Shiloh and Yann Zonnet stay with Saint Vallier - by Eurobasket News
Saint Vallier extended the contracts of Yann Zonnet (197-F/C-89) and Kyle Shiloh (191-G-85, college: Nevada) for the next season. Kyle Shiloh joined the French outfit at the start of the season. He tallied 13.2 points, 4.6 boards and 4.0 assists per game in ProB. Last season the guard spent in Finland. He notched 17.5 points, 5.7 boards, 2.1 assists and 2.1 steals for Kouvot. The guard made it into Eurobasket.com Finnish Korisliiga All-Defensive Team. Kyle Shiloh also played in D-League for the Reno Bighorns.
Yann Zonnet also spends his first year with Saint Vallier. The Cameroonian centre came from Strasbourg. He averaged 2.7 points, 2.5 boards per appearance.

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

Rick HUGHES
  Hyeres-T.
  (204-C/F-73)
  Avg: 19.1

1. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	19.1
2. Jefferson, AS.	18.5
3. Nichols, Vichy	18.2
4. Mejia, Cholet	17.9
5. Darden, Nancy	17.1
6. Massie, Limoges	16.9
7. Shuler, Vichy	16.0
8. Hamilton, Paris-.	15.6
9. Schilb, Chalon	14.6
10. King, Le Havre	14.6

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	8.3
5. Issa, Gravelines	8.0
6. Jones, Le Havre	7.7
7. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	7.6
8. Koffi, Le Mans	7.6
9. Sene, Gravelines	7.5
10. Jefferson, AS.	7.4

Assists Per Game

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

1. Reid, Vichy	6.3
2. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	5.9
3. Taylor, Limoges	5.8
4. Woodside, Gravelin.	5.7
5. King, Le Havre	5.4
6. Linehan, Nancy	5.4
7. Wright, Limoges	5.3
8. Walsh, AS.	5.0
9. Sciarra, Pau-La.	4.7
10. Albicy, Paris-Le.	4.5

Steals Per Game

John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Linehan, Nancy	3.1
2. Walsh, AS.	2.2
3. Diot, Le Mans	2.2
4. Dobbins, Hyeres-T.	2.0
5. Darden, Nancy	2.0
6. Elegar, Vichy	1.8
7. Diabate, Roanne	1.8
8. Sangare, Le Havre	1.7
9. Albicy, Paris-Le.	1.7
10. Dewar, Le Mans	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Cyril AKPOMEDAH
  Grave.
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Akpomedah, Grave.	2.1
2. Ebi, Limoges	1.6
3. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	1.5
4. Falker, Cholet	1.5
5. Jefferson, AS.	1.4
6. Sene, Gravelines	1.3
7. Akingbala, Nancy	1.3
8. Issa, Gravelines	1.2
9. Koffi, Le Mans	1.2
10. Badiane, Poitiera.	1.0

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Moses SONKO
  Maurienne
  (196-F-83)
  Avg: 19.1

1. Sonko, Maurienne	19.1
2. Siggers, Rouen	18.6
3. Harris, Lille	18.4
4. Carter, Nanterre	17.0
5. Rouse, Charleville	16.8
6. Milbourne, Boulogne	16.0
7. Davis, Le Portel	15.9
8. Gay, Fos Ouest	15.5
9. Labeyrie, Le Portel	15.2
10. Runkaukas, Quimp.	15.1

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Barber, Nantes	10.2
2. Daniels, Chalons-.	9.6
3. Bing, Dijon	9.1
4. Wyatte, Le Portel	8.9
5. Rouse, Charleville	8.8
6. Mathis, Maurienne	8.8
7. Monds, Bourg	8.4
8. Monroe, Boulogne	8.1
9. Giles, Rouen	8.0
10. Badiane, Boulazac	8.0

Assists Per Game

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

1. Da Silva, Evreux	8.1
2. Rowland, Le Portel	6.7
3. Patiejunas, Boulo.	5.7
4. Downey, Nantes	5.7
5. Oliver, Bourg	5.5
6. Williams, Le Portel	5.0
7. Taylor, Rouen	5.0
8. Mullins, Chalons-.	5.0
9. Darnauzan, Mauri.	4.7
10. Denave, St Vallier	4.7

Steals Per Game

Mykal RILEY
  Nanterre
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Riley, Nanterre	2.5
2. Shiloh, St Vallier	2.5
3. Daniels, Chalons-.	2.4
4. Craven, Dijon	2.4
5. Mullins, Chalons-.	2.2
6. Sonko, Maurienne	2.1
7. Hachad, Fos Ouest	2.1
8. Melody, Dijon	2.1
9. Patiejunas, Boulo.	2.1
10. Denave, St Vallier	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.6
2. Jefferson, Quimper	1.3
3. Monds, Bourg	1.1
4. Barber, Nantes	1.0
5. Daniels, Nanterre	0.9
6. Adjiwanou, Boula.	0.9
7. Taccoen, Lille	0.9
8. N''Diaye, Clermont	0.9
9. Davis, Evreux	0.9
10. Ford, Clermont	0.7

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GEORGIA

GERMANY

Can Dashaun Wood Climb New Heights And Lead The Deutsche Bank Skyliners Past 8 Time beko BBL champion Alba Berlin Into the final? - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

In the last 10 days, basketball fans around the globe have seen the Los Angeles Lakers get clobbered by the Dallas Mavericks sending them back to la la land somewhat disillusioned as if they had seen the ghost of Dirk Nowitzki on the court, the Miami Heat saying farewell to the Boston Celtics 4-1 possibly missing their last chance of getting a title from the big 3 as they had absolutely no plan how to control Lebron James and Dwayne Wade as if the two NBA stars had seen some extra footage of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul Jabbar from their glory days unwrapped from Pat Riley giving them extra motivation or the Chicago Bulls getting by the Atlanta Hawks with one man show Derrick 'when do you need a basket' Rose or the Grizzlies-Thunder series battling back and fourth in an intense fight as Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have had on the tennis court in the last years. With so much action and excitement going on in North America, Deutsche Bank Skyliner MVP and Mr road runner DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) was able to closely follow the action, but make life comfortable from opponents as he stayed clear of any zones, because as Frankfurt had had a 10 day break waiting for their next opponent which turned out to be 8 time beko BBl champion Alba Berlin that tore apart the EWE Baskets Oldenburg in game 5, 99-68. This long delay in games for Frankfurt and absence of Wood was a good thing for beko BBL teams, since Wood has dominated in almost every game this season scoring in double figurers in 35 of 38 games making the zone his personal playground the same way Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) does for Alba Berlin and taking apart defenses the same way Lionel Messi does on the soccer pitch, Tiger Woods once used to do on the golf course or Formula one driver Sebastian Vettel is doing again on the race course. 'Wood has been great all season. He puts Frankfurt on his back and carries them. One game he didnt play I think they lost by 30', added Gloria Giants Duesseldorf guard Steven Wright. Wood who got his MVP award before game 3 against BG Goettingen will have had a long time to stare and remember what he has done this season from his little camera in his mind as he averaged 25ppg, 5,5rpg and 5,5apg in the Alba Berlin series and should continue to be a wrecking crew in the beko BBL playoffs. 'I am sure Wood can gain more confidence by looking at his MVP trophy. He is always around a triple. I am sure he will be exciting and it will be something to watch', added ex Walter Tigers Tuebingen guard Steven Wright. Or could DaShaun Wood take the force of that MVP award and make him even more stronger and step up his game and be like a mini Derrick Rose (193-G-88, college: Memphis), Lebron James or Dwayne Wade?'Wood is one of the fastest players I played against. He is a very dominant player. He can win games, score, rebound, and lead the team. I mean what else can you ask for from a player? If he had the athletic ability of Dwayne Wade or Lebron James then he wouldnt be playing in the beko BBL. I heard people say he is not that good. You got give credit when credit is due. Men lie, Women lie, numbers dont', warned ex Braunschweig guard Steven Wright. 'Wood is a great player and has had a great season. He is always a big offensive threat each night he steps on the court and you know that he will do amazing things. I think that he is able to step it up even more like a Derrick Rose (193-G-88, college: Memphis). He will have to step it up even more for Frankfurt to be successful, but with each new series you will have to step it up a notch', warned Bamberg forward Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86)

Alba Berlin started the season well going 8-1 in the first months losing only on the road to Ratiopharm Ulm. However towards the end of 2010, Alba Berlin went through a small drought period losing three games in a row including a 103-52 trouncing in Bamberg, in which the bus ride home might have felt like an eternity for the team. The air seemed thin along the Spree in Alba world as the team failed to reach the Eurocup final 16 and first got rid of point guard Hollis Price (186-G-79, college: Oklahoma) who unfairly was made an escape goat. The club that said farewell to Luka Pavicevic (agency: Beo Basket ) who had been at the helm since 2007 winning two titles with Alba Berlin. The team brought in Muli Katzurin from Israel who had won the Czech league titles and cups from 2007-2010. Since the arrival of Katzurin the team is 5-2 and have won the last four games in a row. The team also have brought in guards Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) who still hasnt found his rhythm, 2010 Eurochallenge winner Taylor Rochestie (185-G-85, college: Washington St.) with BG Goettingen and 23 year old 213 cm Serb talent Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88) to help under the hoop. The team recently also released guard Marko Marnovic as well. Despite the many changes and whirlwind happenings, the team should be playing for the title. 'Alba is a solid team and have had ups and downs this season but they are still a team that will be around at the end of the season in my opinion. They have had to go through a coaching change but they have the talent to beat any of the top teams. I think that they have the talent and the players for sure to win the title', warned John Bynum. With the coaching change, how much has the style changed from Pavicevic to Katzurin? 'I think they are more up tempo and not as predictable as they once were. They were running a lot more sets with the old coach but now I think they have more freedom and they have players that can excel more in that style of play', stressed John Bynum. 'Alba Berlin has a different kind of rotation now. One cant really change so much in such a short time, but I think that they will play quicker and run more. They will be more aggressive and try to get at you before you reach the middle line on offense', added Kamil Novak . Since the 79-70, Alba Berlin has had a 7-4 record. In the regular season since the win in Frankfurt the club had a 4-2 record losing a 4 point nail bitter to Bamberg at home and getting trounced in the Lokhalle against BG Goettingen 80-65. Alba Berlin had a huge road victory in Artland winning 95-78 and a few weeks later showing once again the capability of their offense arsenal winning 100-83 in Bremerhaven. In the first round of the beko BBL playoffs, Alba Berlin met The Ewe Baskets Oldenburg and quickly jumped on top of them to lead the series 2-0. However Alba Berlin displaying a knack of a well oiled machine uncharacteristically lost game 3 and game 4 in crunch time and all of a sudden they had to win game 5 at home. After a close first quarter, Alba Berlin took off leading 50-32 at half time and never looked back. The way Alba Berlin let Oldenburg back in series was surprising. 'I was surprised how Alba Berlin let Oldenburg back into the series. I mean I thought both teams matched up well, but after the early 2-0 lead, I was sure that Alba Berlin would sweep. Alba Berlin did what they had to do in game 5. They took that added motivation from losing two close games into game 5 and put it all together', stressed Bamberg American Kyle Hines

Sometimes when a strong team like Alba Berlin has so much strength in their game, opponents might not right away be aware that their could be some weakness, but no matter who the team is there is always some achilles heel in a team and if not that then there are always the chance of injuries occurring. If Alba Berlin has a weak spot then under the hoop on defense. Good BEKO BBL centers have to take their opportunity and try to do as much damage inside as possible. Allen has never been known as being the best defender inside and Femerling lacks physical toughness and Idbhi the necessary quickness. 'I dont really see any weakness besides a shot blocker down low', said Quentin Pryor (193-G/F-83, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Morehead St.) 'Jenkins, Allen the defense of Mcelroy is the strength of the team. They are a deep team and can score rebound and play with anyone in the league. They defend very well and will be in most games. On offense, they have so many guys that can put the ball in the basket. You cant focus on stopping only one guy', I am not to sure about there weaknesses but I would try to attack them inside some kind of way', warned TBB Trier guard John Bynum. 'Berlin has a very balanced team. they have shooters and penetrators to go along with solid low post players', warned Quentin Pryor

Alba Berlin is led by 24 year old 205cm Tadija Dragicevic who comes from Serbia. He is a power forward with great talent, who can score, pass and rebound. Some say he is undersized for the four position, and that he will make a successful transition to the three position, thanks to his great court vision and athletic skills. He started his basketball career for Crvena Zvezda Beograd in 2003 and played there until 2010. In this time, he played 42 international games getting useful experience. Last season, he played League: 15 games: 12.6ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 64.1%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 72.7%; EuroCup: 6 games: 13.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 68.2%, left in Jan.'10, later that month moved to Lottomatica Virtus Roma (Italy-SerieA): 17 games: 8.6ppg, 3.5rpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 64.3%. He was drafted by the Utah Jazz (NBA,2rd (53) in 2008 and played NBA Summer league last season for the Utah Jazz. Currently for Alba Berlin, he is averaging 8,4ppg, 3,9rpg and 2,1apg he is shooting 46% from the field and 39% from the parking lot. Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) is a 30 year 203cm power forward from Gadsen, Alabama that is playing his first season in Berlin. He is a rugged inside player who attacks the glass, will provide help on the boards, is a solid defender in the post, a competitor and hard worker, can score facing the basket and has shooting range to the foul line. He is playing his seventh season in Germany after playing two years in Karlsruhe, one season in Leverkusen and three years in Frankfurt. With the Deutsche Bank Skyliners, Allen reached the playoffs each season and lost a heart breaker fifth game in the 2010 BEKO BBL finals by two points. He played 148 games in his three years and never played a game where he dogged a play. Allen is searching for his first BEKO BBL title in Berlin and is currently is averaging 14,0ppg, 4,3rpg and 1,03pg. He is shooting 60% from the field. His rebounding average may be considerably down from other years, but that is because Alba Berlin has much support inside something which he mostly had to do himself in Frankfurt.

29 year old 187 cm guard American Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) has developed into one of the top players in the BBL after first being recognized in the 2004-2005 season as he averaged 27,1ppg in the second Bundesliga for Nurnberg. He played a season in Bree, Belgium getting ULEB Cup experience before coming to Berlin in 2006 where he since has become a household name. His best scoring season was 2007-2008 where he played 45 games: Score-3 (18.2ppg), 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 57.8%, 3FGP: 42.0%, FT: 81.4%. Last season, he played EuroCup: 14 games: 14.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 74.3%; German League: 35 games: Score-5 (14.8ppg), 1.7rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 44.3%, FT: 80.2% He is an explosive scorer from the point guard or the shooting guard position; possesses the ability to score and create his own shot at anytime; Has very long arms and great leaping ability; unlimited range on the jump shot, which allows him to stretch the defense. You have to pray that he misses. You have to be physical with him and make sure the bigs hedge hard on ball screens, warned Omari Westley. With Berlin, Jenkins has won a number of awards such as Bundesliga All-Star Game -08 (MVP), Bundesliga Champion -08 (Finals MVP), and German Bundesliga Cup Winner -09 (FinalFour MVP). Currently he is averaging 14,5ppg, 2,1rpg and 2,7apg. He is shooting 46% from the field and 45% from outside.

30 year old 193cm guard Immanuel McElroy (193-G-80, college: Cincinnati) is playing his fourth season in Berlin and is averaging 10,0ppg, 3,8rpg and 3,3apg this season. He played at Cincinnati (NCAA) and reached the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2001. He already made a name for himself winning titles with Rhein Energy Cologne His overall quickness, combined with his mental toughness, makes him well-suited as a defender in the attacking defense. He is very athletic, a 40-inch vertical jump and a bench press approaching 300 pounds, ability to break defenders down with his dribble and his explosiveness to the basket makes him an effective scorer. He also possesses good court vision and excellent ball-handling skills, giving him the ability to distribute the ball, particularly in the transition game. He is a natural leader who makes others around him better players. He also has very much experience having won three BBL cups and two BBL league titles. If you want to slow down Mcelroy, you have to deny him the ball and give him the jump shot until he starts to make some, warned Omari Westley. Mcelroy who has never been known as a good shooter has really improved his shooting the last few and is shooting 51,9% from the field, but has started off slow shooting form the Berlin tower at 22,2%. Mcelroy may not score 20 points every night, but he belongs to the top players in the BEKO BBL, because he can really do it all on the court and is also one of the top defenders in the league.

The team also brought back a familiar face with very experienced Sven Schultze (208-C-78) who played many years for The German national team. He is a 32 year old 206cm power forward that was born in Bamberg. He is a very strong player with a deadly shot. With his size, he will post up the opponents small forwards and outrun the opponents power forwards. He is able to defend bigger players, but also agile enough to defend smaller ones. He can drop the three pointer in a variety of ways which gave Luka Pavicevic (agency: Beo Basket ) so many more ways of using him. He also is very dangerous on the fast break as he can with the speed of a point guard and then dunk. He started his career with Bamberg and then played for Alba Berlin from 1998-2002 winning four BEKO BBL titles. He then played for the Bayer Giants Leverkusen until 2005 before going south to Play in Italy in Milian, Udine and Biella. he also played shortly in Greece for Larissa. He finished last season playing for Ferrara (Italy-SerieA): 13 games: 8.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 60.6%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 75.0%. He won a silver in Belgrad in 2005 at the European Championships and played at the Olympic games 2008 in Bejing. This season, he is averaging 3,9ppg and 1,5rpg and can light up a game in an instance off the bench.

The club also brought back a real German legend with Patrick Femerling (216-C-75, college: Washington) who is a 35 year old 216cm center who has just about won everything there is to win in European basketball. This is the third tour of duty for the German national player after having played in Berlin from 1998-2000 and from 2007-2009. Between this time, he played for top European clubs like Olympiakos Pireus, VC Barcelona and Panathinaikos Athens and Caja Sevilla. He has won 13 titles in his basketball career including the Euroleague in 2003 with FC Barcelona and winning a Bronze at the World Championships in 2002 and a Silver at teh 2005 European championships. He has won 3 BEKO BBL titles and two cups. Femerling may be 35, but can still give productivity in limited minutes and has the most experience on the team. This season, he is averaging 4,8ppg and 2,7rpg. The team also added 27 year old 208cm forward/center Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) from Cologne is playing his first season in Berlin. He can score, but is not so fast, but has potent moves. He played at The University of Buffalo from 2003-2007 and finished as the schools fourth all time leading scorer with 1,514 points and the third all time leading rebounder with 844. He became the first player in school history to score 1,500 points and 800 rebounds. He played with the Cologne 99ers and had some experience playing in France for Limoges. Last season, he help lead The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig into the BEKO BBL semi finals losing against The Brose Baskets Bamberg. Last season, he played games 39 games averaging 10.7ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 80.0%. This season, he is averaging 6,6ppg and 3,3rpg. He has had problems getting playing time, because of the strong and deep Alba Berlin roster. Luka Staiger who is a 22 year old 196 cm shooting guard returns back for a second season after coming late in the season last year coming from the NCAA from Iowa. He started his basketball career for TSG Ehingen and played there from 2003-2007. He then departed over the big pond to the NCAA to Iowa where he played until 2010. He played 49 NCAA games for Iowa, but was unhappy about how he was being used on the court and decided to return to Germany. Last season, he played 7 BEKO BBL games averaging 3,3ppg. He got his start in the German national team in 2009 in Poland at the European championships and got more of a role this past summer at the World Championships in Turkey -10: 4 games: 7.3ppg, 1.0rpg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 37.5%. He once scored 106 points as a 16 year old. This season, he is averaging 3,8ppg and 1,0rpg.

The team also got some insurance by bringing in 24 year old 196cm shooting guard Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) who hails from San Diego, California. He is the son of former NBA player Brian Taylor. He is a great sharpshooter with an aggressive dribble drive and has a keen understanding of the game. He played at Oregon from 2004-2008. In his senior year at Oregon, he averaged 12.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 46.1%, 3Pts: 38.2%, FT: 82.3% in 30 games. two seasons ago, he turned professional and played in Italy for Premiata Montegranaro playing 30 games: and averaging 13.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.6spg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 82.6%. Last season in Bonn, he played 6 Eurocup games: 18.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 36.4%; German League: 34 games: 12.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 81.4%. This past summer, he played NBA Summer league for the Indiana Pacers. he first got a short term contract form Alba Berlin, but recently got a contract extension until the end of the season. This season, Taylor is averaging 7,8ppg and 3,3rpg and 2,1apg. The team also has young German Andreas Seiferth (206-F/C-89, college: ALBA Berlin II) who is a 21 year old 206cm center from Berlin. He has been a member of the German U-16, U-18 and U-20 national teams and also has a license to play for Alba Berlin 2 (Regionaliga). His brother Martin is playing his first season for the University of Oregon.

The team brought back Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) recently who is a 26 year old 182cm point guard who is a German National player who has been a BBL traveler who has played for many different BEKO BBL teams like Giessen, Oldenburg, Nurnberg, EnBW Ludwigsburg and Braunschweig. He had his big international breakthrough at the Euro Championships in 2009 averaging 12,7ppg, 2,0rpg, 3,8apg and shot 54% from the three point line. He shoots first and penetrates second. He is a great one on one player. His biggest weapon is his shooting as he loves the catch and pop and off the dribble shooting. He started the season with Turk telekom in Turkey, but enever found his rhythm as he played 10 games averaging 3,8ppg, 1,6rpg and 2,3apg in 15 minutes per game. Since he has been with Alba Berlin it has been sort of a riddle why he hasnt played more as he was averaging only 6,24 minutes per game two months and now is averaging almost 10 minutes a game averaging 3,1ppg, 1,0rpg and 1,6.. The team recently also signed another player who was playing in Turkey with Taylor Rochestie (185-G-85, college: Washington St.) who is a 25 year old 185cm guard from Santa Barbara, who is playing his second season in Germany. He played at Washington State and in his senior season played 33 games: averaging 13.2ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.5apg, FGP: 39.2%, 3Pts: 37.9%, FT: 89.1%. Last season with BG Goettingen, he averaged 15,1ppg 2.8rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 84.1% and in the Eurochallenge he averaged 14,7ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.7apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 79.6%. This season he played for Galatasaray Cafecrown Istanbul (Turkey-TBL) averaging 7,9ppg, 3,5rpg and 3,1apg. He has worked his self very nicely into the Alba Berlin rotation and is currently averaging 9,2ppg, 2,7rpg and 4,4apg. The team recently also brought in Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88) who is a 23 year old 213cm center from Serbia. He played for FMP Zeleznik Beograd from 2005-2010 playing 10 ULEB Cup games, 10 Eurocup games and 10 Eurochallenge games. Last season, he played Eurochallenge 14 games: 13.7ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 75.0%; Adriatic League: 23 games: 13.7ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 57.6%, FT: 78.2%; Serbian League: 14 games: Score-1 (21.1ppg), Reb-1 (8.6rpg), 2.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT-3 (50.0%), FT: 82.1%. The Serb started the season with Efes Pilsen playing only 4 games averaging 3,5 minutes per game and 1,3ppg. With Alba Berlin he is averaging 11.0ppg and 4,1rpg.

Since the climatic semi final win over Alba Berlin in 2005, where guys like Chris Williams and Tyrone Ellis led the then Opel Skyliners into the BBL final, Frankfurt has only a 7-10 record against the Albatros, but have built installed a special albatross cage in the Ballsporthalle which has rewarded them with a 5-2 record. One of the biggest and most emotional wins in the last years was the 81-67 trouncing in January 2006 as it was the debut of ex Skyliner coach Charles Barton. It was only a shame that the team was unable to take this big win and grow off it as they won little more that season and had to win on the last day at home against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg to stay in the BBL. Some nice wins in the last years was the 74-58 win in 2008 as American Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) added 19 points and six rebounds and in 2009, they won 73-66 as ex Skyliner Lorenzo Gordon (201-F-83, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Oklahoma City) chipped in with 15 points and six rebounds. Last season, the two teams split the season series 1-1 as Alba Berlin held Frankfurt to 53 points in the Ballsporthalle and winning. Frankfurt returned to Berlin to win 76-70 as Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) led the team with 18 points. Frankfurt then surprisingly kicked out Alba Berlin in the playoffs 3-1 winning game four at home 69-58 as Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) had 26 points. In the first meeting this season, Alba Berlin escaped the O-2 World arena with a 81-77 win. Frankfurt led for 36 minutes before Alba Berlin put on the turbo and went on a 8-2 run which sparked the win. DaShaun Wood led all players with 32 points and Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) chipped in with 17 points for Alba Berlin. Alba Berlin shot 57% from the field and 44% from the parking lot, but Frankfurt had control of the boards 31-21.In the return game in Frankfurt, Alba Berlin won 79-70 with a strong third quarter outscoring Frankfurt 23-14. In the fourth, Frankfurt cut the lead to 74-70, but Alba Berlin closed out the game with a strong game from Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) with 17 points and 14 points from Immanuel McElroy and no Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) who had been injured.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners enter the 2011beko BBl semi finals with 10 days rest and revenge on their minds after losing both regular season games, while Alba Berlin also has revenge on their minds after losing the 2010 beko BBl quarterfinal to Frankfurt 3-1. Either way a long rest for Frankfurt or two games more for Alba Berlin could be beneficial or not. 'I think that it could benefit Alba Berlin that they played a 5 games series, because they will be in game rhythm, but then again it might be non beneficial, because the team took a lot of added emotion and energy into that game 5 against Oldenburg and now they might lose some of it against Frankfurt', warned Kyle Hines The Deutsche Bank Skyliners have one focus each week on how they will have best chances to win and every team knows it, but nobody can stop it. 'Frankfurt just has to let Wood be Wood like I say every week and on defensive they just have to make other players do what they are not comfortable doing. Alba Berlin has to make other players make plays especially if the game is close. Wood has taken over many times this season and you just have to find a way to make someone else beat you. On offense they just have to execute their sets and make Frankfurt play defense and try and get some easy buckets as well. Frankfurt did a great job last season stopping the pick and roll with Sekulic and Chubb and now must do it again with different players even if the pick and roll is not as central as once with Pavicevic. 'Frankfurt has to find a way to control their pick and role', warned Quentin Pryor Frankfurt also cant forget that Alba Berlin wont be doing everything inside. 'Frankfurt must attack and be more aggressive. They have to keep Alba Berlin to one shot per possession and guard the three point line because they are dangerous from there', warned Mark Dorris (188-G-85, college: Marshall). Frankfurt has been the second best team this season and just will have to play the Frankfurt basketball style of strong defense which leads to quick fast break points and play with a lot of high intensity. The Chicago Bulls have Derrick Rose (193-G-88, college: Memphis) and The Deutsche Bank Skyliners have DaShaun Wood. Both guys are are the motor of their teams and as hungry as Ashton Kutcher will be on Two And A Half Men and, are looking for that first title and somehow always get the job done for their teams why not again in their respective series? The Deutsche Bank Skyliners host Alba Berlin in game 1of the beko BBL semi finals May 18th at 20:00.

Dirk Nowitzki scores 48 as Mavericks beat Thunder 121-112 in Game One - by Eurobasket News
Rust? What rust?

Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) showed no signs of it after a long layoff, making 10 of his first 11 shots and an NBA playoff-record 24 straight free throws on the way to 48 points Tuesday night, leading the Dallas Mavericks to a 121-112 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in game one of the Western Conference finals.

'I was really looking to shoot early and was able to get my rhythm after the first couple of shots', Nowitzki said. 'I kept attacking and my teammates kept feeding me and feeding me and I was able to take advantage over some smaller players.'

Jason Terry (188-G-77, college: Arizona) scored 24 points and Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) added 21 as the Mavericks picked up where they left off in a sweep of the Lakers nine days before. They broke open a tight game with a 13-0 run late in the second quarter and never trailed again, stretching their franchise-record postseason winning streak to seven games.

Game two is Thursday night in Dallas, where the Mavs are 6-0 this postseason.

The Thunder - fresh off a seven-game series against Memphis that included a total of four overtimes - led by nine early in the second quarter, then went 6:28 between baskets. Oklahoma City missed 10 shots during that drought and was down by 11 when it ended. It eventually trailed by 16 before clawing within five points with 3:42 left, and six with 48.5 seconds to play.

When things tightened up in the final minutes, Nowitzki helped protect Dallas lead with two jumpers over Serge Ibaka, and an assist on a three-pointer by Terry with 28.9 seconds left.

'It was closer than we wanted in the fourth quarter, but we came through', Nowitzki said.

Kevin Durant (206-G/F-88, college: Texas) followed his 39 points in game seven of the previous round by scoring 40, one shy of his most ever in a playoff game.

Russell Westbrook (191-G-88, college: UCLA) went from a triple-double in his last game to 20 points, three assists and three rebounds. He missed 12 of his 15 shots, including 10 of his first 11.

Courtesy of www.kansascity.com

Michael Jordan (Giessen 46ers) The Difference In The Frankfurt-Berlin Series Will Be Limiting Free Throw Attempts and Lay Ups From Dashaun Wood - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
33 year old Michael Jordan (183-G-77, college: Pennsylvania) is a 183cm guard from Philadelphia. He played at the University of Pennsylvania graduating in 2000. His first two years found him jumping around leagues in France and Spain before he found a new home in Germany with TSV Quackenbruck. In the 2002-2003 season, he helped lead Quackenbruck into the BBL with exceptional stats in 30 games, 21.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 6.9 apg. He helped turn The Artland Dragons into a playoff team in the 2004-2005 season as they lost the BBL Quarterfinal playoff series to The Opel Skyliners in five games. That season he averaged in 34 games: 11.1ppg, 3.4rpg, Ast-1 (6.4apg), 1.3spg, 2.6bpg, 2FGP: 52.5%, 3FGP: 31.3%. The next season, he was released by The Artland Drgaons, but went to Rhein Energie Cologne and won the BBL championship in 2006 averaging in 33 games: 9.8ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-4 (4.1apg), 1.0spg, 2FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 52.2%. The next season, he went to Italy and played at Cantu where he led the league in assists and averaged in 37 games: 13.8ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-1 (5.2apg), 2.0spg, 2FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 74.0%. The next season, he played in Belgium for Charleroi averaging in 15 games: 9.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.6apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 90.0%;. He had injury problems and finished the season in Greece with PAOK. In 2008-2009 after a very short stay in Israel, he played a few months in Bamberg before going to the Cologne 99ers averaging 10,5ppg, 2,4rpg and leading the BBL in assists with 6,2apg. Last season, he played for Phoenix Hagen helping the team remain in the BEKO BBL. He played 16 games: 8.9ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-5 (5.3apg), FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 73.3%. This season he started with MBC before going to the Giessen 46ers recently. He spoke to eurobasket about the beko BBL semi final matchups.

Last season, the first 4 beko BBL teams were ousted in the playoffs, but this season the top 4 teams are in the semi finals. Why werent their more upsets this season in the quarterfinals of the beko BBL playoffs?

Miles, I can't tell why the top 4 teams advanced this year but it's probably because they are good. In most sports anyone can win on any given night. These teams are still in it because they are talented, work hard and have executed their game plan to the fullest.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg meet the Artland Dragons. What kind of series can we expect? How many games will we see?

This will be an interesting series. Both teams are talented and well coached. I think it will go the distance with Bamberg coming out on top. They have been a well oiled machine all year long.

Is your heart beating more for Artland or Bamberg? I would imagine Artland.

It's a toss up really Miles. I don't root for one team over another in this series. I love QB and I have ties to Bamberg as well. I have friends on both teams and in both cities. I started out in QB with Arne and Chris and they are now at the helm in Bamberg.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg won all 3 games against Artland this season. What will be key for The Artland Dragons to win a 5 game series against Bamberg?

Bamberg has been playing well all season. Artland will have to outplay them on both ends of the floor the entire game and be mentally focused. Have to take advantage of every opportunity.

Does Artland have any other surprise up their sleeve should a Tyrese Rice be contained in a game?

Artland is a very talented team and I am sure if Rice struggles someone else will pick up the slack.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners meet 8 time beko BBL champion Alba Berlin. Alba Berlin swept the season series. What can we expect from this series and how many games will it go?

The playoffs equal a new season so what happened during the regular season between these 2 teams goes out the window. This should be an exciting series though. Frankfurt has the MVP of the bbl and Alba wants to get back to the promise land.

Will Alba Berlin be able to do what no team really has been able to do and limit Dashaun Wood. Is it unhealthy to focus too much on Dashaun Wood or should any team focus on the whole Frankfurt team?

I think Alba has a game plan in store to beat Frankfurt. Wood is a talented player, but not 1 player is going to beat Alba so his teammates are going to have to give him some help.

What will be key for Alba Berlin to win this series?

Alba has to limit Woods ft attempts and layups. That will make the difference in the series. Have to force him to make challenged jump shots. And to also make him a defender, have to make him use lots of energy defending Taylor, Julius, and co.

Mike Dunleavy and Rick Adelman have been reported as being candidates as new Laker coach. Would Dunleavy be the right choice?

I think they should hire whomever Kobe endorses. I honestly don't know who would make a good candidate for the position. I assume Brian Shaw since he's been there but I haven't heard anything about him taking the job.

Boston Celtic coach Doc Rivers was rewarded with a five year contract extension. What is the route of Boston now with many aging stars?

I have no clue what Boston is gonna do. They need some more help though. Obviously, the Perkins trade didn't work out so well for them.

Who will win the Chicago Bulls-Miami Heat series and why?

I have Chicago winning the series vs Miami. I just don't think that LBJ, Wade, and Bosh as good as they are can beat the Bulls. Miami's bench just isn't deep enough.

Who will win the Dallas Mavericks/Oklahoma Thunder/series?

I don't know who is gonna win this series. Dallas is playing great and OKC have the young gunners. KD v Dirk.. ooh!! Looking forward to a great series.

Thanks for the chat MJ

Jackson Capel stays in Cuxhaven - by Moritz Korff
The Cuxhaven BasCats (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have made their first signing for the 2011-12 campaign and renewed the contract of Jackson Capel (191-G-87, college: Evangel). The 24-year-old out of Erlanger, Kentucky appeared in 25 games for the BasCats during this past season, averaging 13.4 points and 3.4 boards per contest. The former NAIA leading scorer posted a season-high 26 points against Freiburg in October and scored in double digits in 12 of the last 13 games of the season. He was third in the Pro A in 3point Field Goals made. Capel started his pro career at RSV Eintracht Stahnsdorf in 2009 and led the 2. Bundesliga Pro B in points per game in his first year overseas, while being named to the 2009-10 Eurobasket.com All-Pro B Second Team.

Rainer Bauer Takes Over The Helm At BG Illertal-Weissenhorn - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO B team BG Illertal-Weissenhorh have found a replacement for coach Uwe Sauer who didnt get a contract extension by bringing in Rainer Bauer . The 39 year old German had been NBBL coach for Ratiopharm Ulm and also assistant coach for Mike Taylor the last years.The club also announced that the team will continue to be a partner with ratiopharm Ulm to help continue to develop young players. 'We have had very good talks with Rainer Bauer in the last weeks. Bauer has been a succcessful youth coach for many years and fits perfectly to our young team', said BG Illertal-Weissenhorn CEO Jochen Seif. Bauer started his coaching in the late 90s as an assistant for Ludwigsburg and Munich. He was head coach for Ratiopharm Ulm from 2001-2003. He has been assistant coach for Ratiopharm Ulm form 2006-2011. He also was an assistant for the German U-20 team in 2006. 'I am happy that I can help to further develop BG illertal-Weissenhorn', stressed Rainer Bauer .

Source: BG Illertal-Weissenhorn

Essen coach Igor Krizanovic gets two-year contract extension / Alexander and Chones sign new deals - by Moritz Korff
2. Bundesliga Pro A outfit ETB Essen has announced that head Igor Krizanovic was granted a two-year contract extension. The agreement was inked on Monday. 37-year-old Krizanovic is standing at the helm of the team since 2007. He led the Essen team to a 12-16 record and a 9th place finish in this past Pro A campaign.
The ETB club officials also agreed to terms with Chris Alexander (186-G-83, college: Southern) and Kendall Chones (201-F-84, college: Colgate) on extending their contracts for another year. Alexander averaged 17 points, 3.8 assists and 3.7 rebounds through 30 games in this past season, while Chones saw action in 29 games, adding 11.7 points and 6.8 boards a contest.

Pro B News - by Moritz Korff
SC Rasta Vechta is establishing continuity in its roster, as the ambitious Pro B team not only extended the contract of head coach Patrick Elzie, but also decided to keep Matt Reid (185-G-84, college: Cameron), Axel Jarchow (191-G-89), Daniel Krause (196-G-88), Marvin Boadu (193-G-89), Paul Heitzhausen (194-F-89) and Marc Stertenbrink (203-F-91) from last season's squad.

BSV Wulfen named Hendrik Bellscheidt (193-G/F-90) its first newcomer for the 2011-12 season. The 21-year-old wing makes the move from Grevenbroich (1. Regionalliga West) to Wulfen, while Steffen Hummelt (196-F-84), Nino Janoschek (204-C-87), Romeo Bakoa (184-G-88) and Philipp Mazur (203-C-90) will play another year with the Wolves.

Pro B North side Schwelmer Baskets announced that Max Dohmen (201-F-88) will go into another season with the team. The 23-year-old Power Forward scored 9.2 points per game for Schwelm in 2010-11.

SC Rist Wedel landed two talented youngsters for the upcoming campaign. Both Ismet Akpinar (184-G-95) and Janis Stielow (189-G/F-95) are members of the German U16-National Team and played for Piraten Hamburg in the JBBL (U16-Bundesliga) over these past two years. Akpinar was named MVP of the 2010-11 JBBL season just recently.

2011 beko BBL Semi Final Preview Brose Baskets Bamberg-Artland Dragons 3-----1 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
It was more than 6 weeks ago at the Top 4 in Bamberg where 3 time beko BBl champion Brose Baskets Bamberg had arrived to the competition cruising through the season like an unstoppable Dwight Howard mowing everybody down in his path in the zone as if he had found some extra Popeye spinach to add extra strength were rudely challenged on back to back days by the Artland Dragons and New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig as if the name Brose Baskets Bamberg supplied as much trepidation as the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf, a Michael Jordan on the baseball field or Leslie Nielson directing a dramatic picture as both teams gave the Bavarian team 2 good run for the money games. Bamberg will meet The Artland Dragons in a best of 5 series as Quackenbruck slipped by The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig winning the last two games 3-2 in games. Bamberg needed 45 minutes in the semi final cup game and Tyrese Rice fouled out early to reach the cup final 6 weeks ago. 'Well you play each team twice in the regular season. The playoffs are much different. I think it comes down to match ups', warned ex Tuebingen guard Steven Wright. Chris Fleming had an extra amount of time to prepare for both teams for not another do or die cup game, but rather for a five game series. 'I dont think the time off will effect Bamberg as they have some veteran guys that will keep the team going in the right direction', stressed Gloria Giants guard Steven Wright. The Artland Dragons might of lost all three games this season to Bamberg, but only by a combined total of 8 points in the regular season and in OT in the cup final and with their confidence rising like a Barack Obama for a second term at President after eliminating Bin Ladin are as scared of Casey Jacobsen and company as the Dallas Mavericks were of the Los Angeles Lakers, Dashaun Wood of ever not being able to strut into the lane at any given moment of any game, or Hollywood actor Sylvester Stallone is from not returning as Rocky again. Bamberg will have to continue to play their focused and consistent game as Artland will seek revenge for all three loses as there will b eno gifts given in this series. 'Its the playoffs the games will be different. I think Bamberg will be better prepared than at the Top 4. All the teams are playing well as of right now. Bamberg has got to continue what they have been doing the whole season. Playing great defense, moving and shooting the ball well', warned ex Braunschweig guard Steven Wright.

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. 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. 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. 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. They have blown away most of the competition with ease holding teams to under 70 points 26 times. They average 82 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. Bamberg won the quarterfinal series against the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven 3-0, but it wasnt a cake walk as Bremerhaven was in the first two games losing in crunch time. In game 3, Bamberg manhandled Bremerhaven 86-58 having the big rebound edge 50-33, having 6 guys in double figurers and sending the club of coach Doug Spradley into summer vacation.

The Artland Dragons had a lot of pressure to reach the beko BBL playoffs again after missing them on the last game day twice the last two years, but new coach Stefan Koch had his team ready from the start and led the team to a fourth place finish with a record of 23-11. They have had three winning streaks of three games and there only rap could be that they have problems winning against top teams. They lost both times to the Brose Baskets Bamberg, but only with a total combined score of 8 points. Their biggest win of the season was a 78-74 win in Berlin. Despite not being able to beat top teams, the club is one that cant be underestimated. 'Artland has been a great team this season and continued to get better each week. They are a team that will go deep into the playoffs', warned John Bynum. One thing that The Artland Dragons have improved is not getting lost on defense. 'Now we don't lose our defensive focus when we aren't scoring on the offensive end. Earlier in the year, when we would miss shots, our defensive intensity would go down. Now we are able to move on to the next play, without thinking about our past mistakes', stressed Artland Dragon guard Bryan Bailey. The team finished the season strong winning nine of their last 11 games including posting a five game winning streak. After getting smoked by Alba Berlin and MBC giving up 178 total points, The Dragons move into the playoffs breathing their hated fire on defense giving up 70 or less points in two of the last three games. The Artland Dragons come into this best of five semi final series against Bamberg coming from 2-1 down against The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig in the Quarterfinals winning a nail bitter in game 4 in Braunschweig as Tyrese Rice poured in 27 points and winning game five at home 99-69 as Artland was led by guard combo Bryan Bailey and Tyrese Rice that combined for 49 points and totally dominated the boards 49-23. Rice will have to continue to be the Dashaun Wood of the Artland Dragons for his team to have any kind of chance against Bamberg

When breaking down the teams with the individual positions, the guard position edge goes to The Brose Baskets Bamberg despite the strong guard duo of Tyrese Rice (17,0ppg, 2,7rpg, 5,2apg) and Bryan Bailey (11,5ppg, 2,3rpg, 3,3apg). Rice is the second best scoring point guard in the BEKO BBL after Dashaun Wood, but not as explosive or consistent as Wood. If Rice has a off night, the Artland offense will be greatly effected. Bailey is a strong player that can do so many things, but scoring will be a plus, but his defense will have to be excellent against Bamberg. Strasser gives experience and his three pointer from the bench. However The Brose Baskets Bamberg are stronger and more valuable with the guard trio of John Goldsberry (4,3ppg, 1,8rpg, 4,3apg), Anton Gavel (10,4ppg, 2,6rpg, 2,2apg) and Brian Roberts (188-G-85) (10,4ppg, 2,3rpg, 3,4apg). Goldsberry probably the most unselfish player at the moment in the league can change a game with his defense as he once had 10 steals with Leverkusen, Gavel will hurt you with his threes and extra pass ability and just when you thought that you could have a breather on defense, in comes Roberts who can score in bunches quicker than Ray Allen can releases his bombs from the corner. With Casey Jacobsen (12,3ppg, 3,4rpg, 3,0apg), Bamberg has an ex NBA player that is as unselfish as his teammate John Goldsberry as well. Jacobsen is a very versatile player that scores, rebounds and gets assists and is the ultimate team player and on top of that the team leader. 'I think it is pretty even. I think Goldsberry and Rice are two different guards, but Roberts gives them a great option off the bench and when you throw in Casey Jacobsen then you have some great guard play, but Artland has some great guard play as well', added John Bynum
The forward edge also goes to The Brose Baskets Bamberg. With Predrag Suput (12,3ppg, 4,3rpg, 1,7apg), Bamberg has one of the top power forwards that is always guaranteed to score even if it doesnt look pretty, the Serb has been doing it for his whole career and his experience is huge. Kyle Hines (10,0ppg, 4,3rpg) is a big body that frees up space for the guards and he scores and rebounds on a consistent level this season and Reyshawn Terry (10,1ppg, 5,4rpg) brings the athletic quality to the forwards. The Artland Dragons have a solid trio with Nathan Peavy (10,9ppg, 5,1rpg), Adam Hess (8,6ppg, 4,3rpg) and Robert Kurz (8,8ppg, 6,7rpg). Peavy gives you solid inside out game, Hess can damage you from outside and will go where it hurts, and Kurz is a relentless worker under the boards that gobbles up rebounds, can score and has NBA experience. 'I like Bambergs frontline, they are very deep and versatile', stated John Bynum. At the center position, it is pretty even. Bamberg has a strong duo with German national player Tibor Pleiss/Kyle Hines. Pleiss (9,5ppg, 7,0rpg) has improved very much this season and his defense adds a new dimension to the Bamberg play. Hines brings routine and consistency. One cant get a better center offense/defense duo with Darren Fenn (12,2ppg, 6,1rpg, 1,5apg) and Ruben Boumtje Boumtje (7,2ppg, 5,4rpg). Fenn is a scorer who will need to have a good game for Artland to be successful and Boumtje Boumtje is the ideal guy coming from the bench especially to help stop opponents runs. The Brose Baskets Bamberg also have the experience factor. The club has 7 players that have almost played two complete seasons together and have played Euroleague together. The Artland Dragons boast experienced players with Fenn, Hess, Boumtje Boumtje and Strasser, but their experience in the BEKO BBL doesnt match that of Bamberg. 'I think Bamberg has played in some big games this season and I think they have the experience advantage as well', commented John Bynum. The coaching match up is an interesting one with Chris Fleming vs Stefan Koch and also even. Koch is back coaching after being away from the sidelines for almost 4 years, but in his career, he has shown his ability to bring success winning the 2000 BEKO BBL cup with the Opel Skyliners, winning the 2003 Austrian title with the Montan Bears Kapfenberg and led the Giessen 46ers to the 2005 BEKO BBl semi finals losing to Bamberg in 5 games. Chris Fleming has just as an impressive resume making the Artland Dragons into a BEKO BBL team in 2003, winning the Cup in 2008, before coming to Bamberg last season and winning the double
The Brose Baskets Bamberg won the season series against The Artland Dragons 60-58 at home and 75-69 on the road. Bamberg was pretty lucky in the first game as Artland played them very tough forcing them to shoot 35% from the field and 18% from outside and winning the rebound duel 43-34. The 8 turnovers by Bamberg saved them on this day. The second game was another very close affair as Artland shot only 36% from the field, but won the rebounding duel again. Bamberg was the better team in crunch time keeping their nerves in check. The Artland Dragons will have to play with very high intensity for 40 minutes and Hope that Rice has a Dashaun Wood type of game. Bamberg averages 82 points per game and shoot 47% from the field and 40% from downtown. The first seven top scorers of Bamberg are shooting over 40% from the field and six of the top seven scorers are shooting over 40% from the parking lot. Artland will have to play clever defense and mix it up, because once Bamberg gets going it is almost impossible to rock their boat. Artland cant let Bamberg get on fast starts or play inconsistent for long periods of time otherwise each night could be long. 'Rice needs to play well in order for them to win for sure. He has stepped up his game in the 2nd half of the season and a lot of their success depends on him', added John Bynum. The Artland Dragons will have to defend well and bang under the boards to be successful. Bamberg has the best defense in the BEKO BBL and Artland should concentrate on attacking Suput who isnt the strongest defender, get at Roberts on the pick role and force Pleiss out to get more room inside for their big men. 'Artland just has to use their strengths and I think their guards have to play well to win this game', warned John Bynum. The Brose Baskets Bamberg have scored 70 points or more in 32 of the 35 games and just need to find their rhythm quickly and bring intensity and with the crowd behind them should be okay. Artland has an up tempo offense. Their weakness is their half court game. If you make them play that then they will have problems. Bamberg should also keep them from continuously moving the ball and containing their transition opportunities. Bamberg have lost only twice this season and been near perfect. There isnt much which they should change, but just go on the court and do their magic. 'Bamberg just has to play their game and do what they have been doing all season', stressed John Bynum. The Brose Baskets Bamberg host The Artland Dragons in game one May 17th at 20:00.

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GREECE

Div.B Standing

B Standings

1. Nea Kifisia		23-5
2. OFI		21-6
3. Ermis Perama		20-7
4. Doxa Lefkadas		19-8
5. Anagennisi		19-9
6. MENT		16-12
7. Aias Evosmou		16-12
8. Stratoni		14-14
9. Doukas		13-14
10. Aiolos Trik.		13-15
11. Diagoras		13-15
12. Egaleo		10-18
13. Apollon KL		9-18
14. Filippos Veroias		7-21
15. M.Alexandros		5-23

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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	15.7
4. Tiedeman, Giants	14.9
5. Mills, Eiffel Towe.	14.9
6. Kimbrough, Giants	14.7
7. Laing, Magixx	14.7
8. Brown, DeFriesland	14.6
9. Hilliman, Rotterdam	14.5
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	10.3
3. Hilliman, Rotterdam	9.6
4. Haryasz, GasTerra	9.3
5. Sanchez, DeFriesl.	8.8
6. Griffin, Giants	8.4
7. Ellis, GasTerra	8.1
8. de Randamie, ABC	8.0
9. Jackson, Eiffel T.	7.8
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.	3.6
6. Marshall, Lands.	3.6
7. Slagter, ZZ Leiden	3.4
8. Bostain, GasTerra	3.3
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. Turner, Eiffel T.	2.2
3. Marshall, Lands.	2.1
4. Taylor, Magixx	2.1
5. Stokes, BS Weert	2.1
6. Jackson, ZZ Leiden	2.0
7. Ellis, GasTerra	1.9
8. Williams, DeFriesl.	1.9
9. Bostain, GasTerra	1.9
10. McDermott, Magixx	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Junior HAIRSTON
  BS Weert
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 1.3

1. Hairston, BS Weert	1.3
2. Aarts, Eiffel T.	1.2
3. Blue, Giants	1.1
4. Hilliman, Rotterdam	1.0
5. Mullery, Landstede	0.9
6. Hamm, BS Weert	0.9
7. McDermott, Magixx	0.9
8. Boxley, ZZ Leiden	0.8
9. Hulzebos, Landste.	0.8
10. Minter, BS Weert	0.8

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HUNGARY

A Division Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Muhammad EL-AMIN
  PVSK P.
  (196-G/F-87)
  Avg: 22

1. El-Amin, PVSK P.	22.0
2. Doyne, Falco-Szova	21.8
3. Bell, Kormend	20.9
4. Marshall, Marso-Va.	20.8
5. Townes, Soproni	19.5
6. Wilson, Kaposvari	19.4
7. Mekongo, FS Debre.	19.3
8. Rubin, Szedeak	19.3
9. Cunningham, Kapos.	19.2
10. Sales, Atomeromu	18.5

Rebounds Per Game

Darian TOWNES
  Soproni
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 11.2

1. Townes, Soproni	11.2
2. Sales, Atomeromu	10.3
3. Werner, Kaposvari	9.1
4. Cunningham, Kapos.	8.9
5. Bader, Szolnok	8.8
6. Jones, Albacomp	8.6
7. Egemonye, PVSK P.	8.5
8. Szabo, Soproni	8.3
9. Gosa, Falco-Szova	8.2
10. Mekongo, FS Debr.	8.2

Assists Per Game

Lorenzo WILLIAMS
  ZTE K.
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Williams, ZTE K.	7.3
2. Savic, Marso-Vagep	6.5
3. Simon, Albacomp	6.3
4. Trotter, Szolnok	6.2
5. Kalman, Falco-Sz.	6.1
6. Kelley, Soproni	6.1
7. Moore, Kormend	5.4
8. Glavinic, PVSK P.	5.1
9. Wittmann, Kecsk.	4.5
10. Singletary, FS De.	4.2

Steals Per Game

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

1. Savic, Marso-Vagep	3.5
2. Marshall, Marso-Va.	2.9
3. Hanga, Albacomp	2.8
4. Czigler, Marso-Va.	2.7
5. Trotter, Szolnok	2.6
6. Werner, Kaposvari	2.6
7. Williams, ZTE K.	2.5
8. Clark, Szolnok	2.4
9. Crocker, Albacomp	2.3
10. Singletary, FS De.	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Ivory CLARK
  Szolnok
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 2

1. Clark, Szolnok	2.0
2. Townes, Soproni	1.9
3. Czigler, Marso-Va.	1.3
4. McKenzie, Szedeak	1.3
5. Egemonye, PVSK P.	1.1
6. Keller, Albacomp	0.9
7. Aliakseyeu, Falco-.	0.8
8. Langford, FS Debre.	0.8
9. Sales, Atomeromu	0.7
10. Hanga, Albacomp	0.7

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IBL

Standings

IBL Standings

Continental Division
1. Bellingham S.		6-2
2. Vancouver V.		4-1
3. W.C. Hotshots		4-2
4. Olympia R.		2-3
5. L.Angeles L.		0-1
6. USA All-Stars		0-12
International Division
1. Albany L.		9-2
2. Kankakee S.		8-2
3. Gary Splash		3-4
4. Oregon W.		3-4
5. Edmonton E.		0-2
Branding Team
1. Lansing C.		2-2
2. Dayton A.		0-0
3. Phoenix R.		0-0
4. Las Vegas P.		0-1
5. Ohio H.G.		0-1
6. Lake Co.		0-2

Kankakee and Gary get wins versus the Ohio Hidden Gems in their debut! - by Lucius Jones
The Ohio Hidden Gems had their upset bids destroyed in very different manners by two quality IBL teams in Kankakee who beat the Ohio Hidden Gems 121-113 and the Gary Splash who drowned the Gems 107-83.

Kankakee was forced to come from behind against the Gems as they had the lead well into the 4th quarter behind a balanced attack. Ohio Hidden Gems were led by Lee Sims (6'1''-G) and his 24points in the narrow defeat. Cordaryl Ballard (6'5''-G/F-87, college: USC Aiken) added 23points, 9rebounds, and 6 assists in a great all around outing. Elijah Allen (6'4''-F-89, agency: EM-PA) showed his versatility inside and outside with 17points, 5rebounds,3assists. Rambo Dyer added 15points and 11rebounds in his professional debut and Corey McDuffie (6'0''-G) scored 15points in his as well.

For the winners, Ryan Edwards (6'5''-F-83, college: Missouri Baptist) shows he's stil got it as he drops a smooth 32pts,5rebs,4asts and Billy Baptist (6'5''-F, college: Quincy) scored 14pts and grabbed a awe-striking 20rebs with 4asts.

Gary jumped on the Ohio Hidden Gems quickly and ran away with the contest by the end. BJ Walker and his 17pts,16rebs led the charge. Christopher Wesby also scored 17pts and had 7rebs as well. For the Gems, Lee Sims led all scorers with 25points and Elijah Allen added 20pts. Cordaryl Ballard also ended up with 15points.

Gary and the Ohio Hidden Gems meet again May 29th.....

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INDIA

Kenny Natt named National Team head coach - by Eurobasket News
Indian National Team received their new head coach. Kenny Natt is the man for the job. The US specialist last worked as coach assistant with the Sacramento Kings. He reached the NBA Finals in 2007 with the team. Kenny Natt also worked as coach assistant with the Utah Jazz and Cleveland Cavaliers.
Kenny Natt will prepare India for FIBA Middle Asia sub zone tournament in July. They will fight for the spot at the 26th FIBA Asia Championship. Zak Penwell will help Kenny Natt with the job. Penwell has been appointed as the strength and conditioning coach for both mens and womens selections.
Additionally the Indian Basketball Federation announced the name of Womens National Team head coach. Pete Gaudet will guide the team through 24th FIBA Asia Championship Elite Level I games in August.

American coaches to train Indian National Basketball Teams - by M. Rajalingam
Basketball Federation of India has signed American coaches to lead Indian National Basketball Teams- Kenny Natt (Men), Pete Gaudet (Women), & Zak Penwell (Strength/Conditioning).

Kenny Natt (Men), Pete Gaudet have replaced Bill Harris and Tamika Raymond who were training the men's and the women's teams respectively.

Kenny Natt is a former American professional basketball player and served for the NBA's Sacramento Kings, whereas Pete Gaudet is a NCAA basketball coach and he has served for the Ohio State women's team.

It is believed that both the trainers will also be involved with the development of basketball at the grassroots level.

It is really good to see BFI bringing in lots of International talent in terms of players and coaches, in turn helping the Indian talent to gain international exposure.

What to comment on this? Bravo!

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IRAQ

Karkh narrowly defeat Banijas at Arab Club Championship - by Eurobasket News
Banijas - Karkh 79:80

Karkh earned the first win at the Arab Club Championship in UAE. They overcame hosting Banijas tonight to improve at 1-1 record in preliminary Group B. Banijas fell at 1-1 record after the defeat.
The Iraqi team secured a narrow 17:16 lead after a close first quarter. But the hosts quickly spurred in front in the second term. They grabbed a 39:32 lead at the interval. Banijas remained in front throughout the third term. The UAE team entered the final period up by a single point. But led by Chudney Gray (188-G-78, agency: Promotex, college: St.John's) Karkh eked out an important victory at the end. Chudney Gray stepped up with 29 points to pace the charge. Norman Nolan (202-F/C-76, college: Virginia) had 22 points, while Ahmed Saad notched 11 points in the win. Darrel Pitterfield replied with 22 points and 9 rebounds for Banijas. Cyril Vakenda chipped in 19 points, while Ibrahim Khalfan (181-F-79) had 13 points in the loss.

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ISRAEL

Stats Leaders - National League

Points Per Game

Brian ASBURY
  Hapoel T-A
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 27

1. Asbury, Hapoel T-A	27.0
2. Hall, Beer Yaakov	24.3
3. Delaney, Maccabi	22.6
4. Clemente, Megido.	22.6
5. Moragne, Hapoel B.	22.3
6. Miller, Megido/Y.	22.0
7. Gomez, Beer Yaakov	20.4
8. Timberlake, Elitzu.	20.2
9. Young, Hod Hashar.	20.1
10. Markson, Hapoel A.	20.0

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Johnson, Ironi N.	12.6
2. Rosefelt, Ironi R.	12.1
3. Clemente, Megido.	11.4
4. Brandy, Hod H.	9.9
5. Ibrahim, Kohav Y.	9.8
6. Wade, Lev Hasharon	9.0
7. McFarlin, Lev H.	9.0
8. Hardin, Elitzur Ya.	8.9
9. Strong, Hapoel T.	8.9
10. Tramiel, Kohav Ya.	8.8

Assists Per Game

Ofir FARHI
  Beer Yaakov
  (187-G-86)
  Avg: 6.6

1. Farhi, Beer Yaakov	6.6
2. Dobie, Lev Hashar.	6.4
3. Lahat, Hapoel T-A	6.2
4. Shaashoua, Hapoel	5.9
5. Bet-Yosef, Beer Y.	5.8
6. Eliyahu, Hapoel Af.	5.5
7. Fisher, Ironi R.	4.7
8. Timor, Hapoel Tivon	4.6
9. Berkowitz, Elitzu.	4.4
10. Harush, Kohav Yair	4.4

Steals Per Game

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

1. Miller, Megido/Y.	3.1
2. Bochman, Beer Y.	2.5
3. Eliyahu, Hapoel Af.	2.5
4. Markson, Hapoel A.	2.3
5. Young, Hod Hashar.	2.1
6. Shaashoua, Hapoel	2.1
7. Delaney, Maccabi	2.1
8. Naor, Hapoel T-A	2.0
9. Fisher, Ironi R.	2.0
10. Sukar, Elitzur Ra.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Adrian UTER
  Hapoel T-A
  (201-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Utter, Hapoel T-A	2.1
2. Strong, Hapoel T.	1.9
3. Rosefelt, Ironi R.	1.9
4. Aidan, Hapoel Beeri	1.8
5. Colwell, Ironi R.	1.8
6. Johnson, Ironi N.	1.5
7. Hardin, Elitzur Ya.	1.4
8. Hugee, Hapoel Afu.	1.4
9. Ibrahim, Kohav Y.	1.1
10. Brandy, Hod H.	1.1

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ITALY

stats leader

Points Per Game

Marco EVANGELISTI
  Trapani
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 17.7

1. Evangelisti, Trapa.	17.7
2. Tassinari, Moncali.	17.6
3. Musso, Perugia	16.9
4. Ricciardi, Palestr.	16.8
5. Rugolo, Molfetta	16.8
6. Masper, Moncalieri	16.7
7. Vico, Matera	16.0
8. Carrizo, Ferentino	15.9
9. Conte, Trento	15.8
10. Marino, Treviglio	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Simone BAGNOLI
  Potenza
  (206-F/C-81)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Bagnoli, Potenza	11.4
2. Rosignoli, Biscegl.	9.8
3. Corral, Molfetta	9.4
4. Capitanelli, Pales.	8.8
5. Zambon, Rieti	8.7
6. Basei, Ostuni	8.6
7. Chiaramello, Recan.	8.6
8. Facenda, Senigallia	8.1
9. Soloperto, Latina	7.9
10. De Min, Treviglio	7.9

Assists Per Game

Simone FERRARESE
  Trento
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 4.9

1. Ferrarese, Trento	4.9
2. Marino, Treviglio	4.7
3. Virgilio, Rieti	4.0
4. Tomasiello, Comsum.	3.7
5. Marcante, ASD P.	3.7
6. Scarone, Piacenza	3.7
7. Cantone, S.Antimo	3.4
8. Passera, Piacenza	3.4
9. Gnaccarini, Senig.	3.4
10. Paparella, Potenza	3.4

Steals Per Game

Francesco GUARINO
  Trapani
  (182-G-79)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Guarino, Trapani	3.5
2. Bonamente, Perugia	3.2
3. De Nicolao, Castel.	3.0
4. Gullo, Patti	2.9
5. Malamov, Ruvo	2.8
6. Palombita, Castell.	2.7
7. Cisse, ASD Pavia	2.7
8. Musso, Perugia	2.7
9. Bushati, Brescia	2.7
10. Parente, Moncalie.	2.6

Blocks Per Game

Andrea ZERINI
  Ruvo
  (201-F-88)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Zerini, Ruvo	1.7
2. Ancellotti, Patti	1.6
3. Corral, Molfetta	1.3
4. Capitanelli, Pales.	1.1
5. Basei, Ostuni	1.0
6. Raminelli, Castell.	1.0
7. Spippoli, Palestri.	0.9
8. Candido, Ferentino	0.9
9. Biligha, ASD Pavia	0.9
10. Pozzi, Molfetta	0.8

Bennet Cantu keeps Manuchar Markoishvili - by Eurobasket News
Bennet Cantu signed a two-year contract extension with Manuchar Markoishvili (195-G-86). The team already kept coach Andrea Trinchieri and Martin Leunen.
Manuchar Markoishvili is one of the best Cantus players this season. He appeared 22 times in the league averaging 10.8 points, 2 rebounds and 1.2 assists. Bennet Cantu ended as No.2 in regular season with 22-8 record and they will meet Cimberio VA in the Quarterfinals. Markoishvili also helped the team reach Italian Cup Finals.
Manuchar Markoishvili joined Cantu during the summer of 2009 from the Ukrainian BC Kyiv. In the past, he played for Union Olimpija and Benetton. Markoishvili is active member of the Georgian National Team. During the Qualifications to European Championships 2011 he had 11.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 87.5% for 8 games.

Valerio Amoroso leaves Bologna - by Eurobasket News
Bologna have decided to part ways with Valerio Amoroso (202-F-80). The 30-year-old forward joined the team at the start of the season. He tallied 8.2 points, 4.6 boards and 1.4 steals per game in Seria A. Last season Valerio Amoroso spent in Banca Tercas Teramo. His stats read 12.7 points, 4.0 boards and 1.7 assists in EuroCup. In Seria A the forward posted 12.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 1.6 assists per appearance. Valerio Amoroso was the member of Italian NT back in 2004/09 seasons.

A dilettanti Round 1 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Ostuni - Treviglio 71-59

The game was mostly controlled by Ostuni. Treviglio was better in third quarter 17-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Ostuni won last quarter 21-11. The former international forward Mario Gigena (198-77) stepped up and scored 20 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and naturalized Argentinian forward Silvio Gigena (200-75) chipped in 16 points. At the losing side center Jacopo Borra (212-90) responded with 12 points and 7 rebounds and guard Tommaso Marino (190-86, agency: Interperformances) scored 8 points and 6 assists. Treviglio's coach Simone Lottici rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Ostuni: M.Gigena 20+5reb, S.Gigena 16+4reb+1ast, D.Morena 10+6reb+3ast, M.Bona 8+4reb+1ast, F.Basei 7+3reb+1ast, C.Tommasini 6+8reb
Treviglio: J.Borra 12+7reb, D.Reati 11+2reb+1ast, A.Vitale 10+1reb, T.Milani 9+3reb+1ast, T.Marino 8+3reb+6ast, R.Castelli 5+7reb

Trapani - Brescia 81-85

The guests trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 24-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Brescia made 17-of-22 free shots (77.3 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of naturalized Argentinian forward Mario Jose Ghersetti (200-81) who helped to win the game recording 13 points and 7 rebounds. The former international guard Rodolfo Rombaldoni (190-77, agency: Players Group) contributed with 15 points for the winners. The former international forward Walter Santarossa (200-78) answered with 19 points and 9 rebounds and the former international power forward Luca Bisconti (206-82) added 10 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Trapani. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Brescia: M.Farioli 16+3reb+1ast, R.Rombaldoni 15+3reb+2ast, L.Gergati 14+3reb, F.Bushati 13+2reb+1ast, M.Jose Ghersetti 13+7reb+3ast, S.Stojkov 10+2reb+3ast
Trapani: W.Santarossa 19+9reb+1ast, A.Svoboda 14+1reb+2ast, M.Evangelisti 11+3reb+1ast, F.Guarino 11+1reb+3ast, L.Bisconti 10+6reb+2ast, G.Cantagalli 10+2reb

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

JAPAN

Another Chapter - by Brandon Cole
Well, well, well...its been 9 months in the making but my season in Japan is complete. And what a wild year it was. I have gone into great detail in my past blogs about the peaks and valleys of my season here in the BJ League, so that part is already well documented. Individually, i obviously had a great season but the ultimate gratification for a player like me who is so used to winning, is TEAM SUCCESS. That aspect was hard to come by this year and during a long and grinding 50 game season, that can definitely wear on you if you let it. Now after my first year here in this great country, it is time for me to bid farewell......for now. This off season should be a very exciting one for myself and I am honestly looking forward to it with an extremely open mind. My season has only been over for about 3 weeks and I am already itching to get back to the grind, I just love the game. The excitement of watching the NBA playoffs every night has only been adding fuel to that burning fire, lol. I will be in the gym back in my hometown of Chicago this summer working on my craft and looking to improve in a few areas of my game for next season ( I was very disappointed in my Free throw shooting this year, which was in the mid 50's...looking to get that back up in the high 60's or 70's for next season).

And while my primary focus this summer will be to get my mind and body ready for the marathon of another grueling season come August/September ( my 5th as a professional already, man....time flies)I also plan to have my share of fun and relaxation as well. I am looking forward to getting some good home cooked meals and bbq's, vacationing, cracking jokes with family and friends, and just really enjoying my overall summer experience...with all the blood sweat and tears I Put into this game, i definitely feel i deserve it! So there you have it folks...another chapter closed on this novel that is my professional career. Only tine will tell what the next chapter holds. Until next time, stay blessed, and be easy ya'll. Enjoy ur summer and strive to get better. I'm out!

Another Chapter - by Brandon Cole
Well, well, well...its been 9 months in the making but my season in Japan is complete. And what a wild year it was. I have gone into great detail in my past blogs about the peaks and valleys of my season here in the BJ League, so that part is already well documented. Individually, i obviously had a great season but the ultimate gratification for a player like me who is so used to winning, is TEAM SUCCESS. That aspect was hard to come by this year and during a long and grinding 50 game season, that can definitely wear on you if you let it. Now after my first year here in this great country, it is time for me to bid farewell......for now. This off season should be a very exciting one for myself and I am honestly looking forward to it with an extremely open mind. My season has only been over for about 3 weeks and I am already itching to get back to the grind, I just love the game. The excitement of watching the NBA playoffs every night has only been adding fuel to that burning fire, lol. I will be in the gym back in my hometown of Chicago this summer working on my craft and looking to improve in a few areas of my game for next season ( I was very disappointed in my Free throw shooting this year, which was in the mid 50's...looking to get that back up in the high 60's or 70's for next season).

And while my primary focus this summer will be to get my mind and body ready for the marathon of another grueling season come August/September ( my 5th as a professional already, man....time flies)I also plan to have my share of fun and relaxation as well. I am looking forward to getting some good home cooked meals and bbq's, vacationing, cracking jokes with family and friends, and just really enjoying my overall summer experience...with all the blood sweat and tears I Put into this game, i definitely feel i deserve it! So there you have it folks...another chapter closed on this novel that is my professional career. Only tine will tell what the next chapter holds. Until next time, stay blessed, and be easy ya'll. Enjoy ur summer and strive to get better. I'm out!

P.S. Want to send my condolences to the families of Robert 'Tractor' Traylor who passed away recently in Puerto Rico. Even though I didn't know him personally, I have several friends who played with him through the years. It's always sad news in the basketball community to lose one our own. God Bless Trac and R.I.P.

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

LATVIA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Derek WILLJAM
  Barons
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 15.8

1. Willjam, Barons	15.8
2. Caldwell, Liepaja	15.8
3. Bergmanis, Zemgale	15.1
4. Peiners, LU	14.8
5. Veselovs, Valmiera	14.7
6. Duselis, LU	14.1
7. Mednis, Turiba	13.8
8. Laksa, VEF Riga jrs	13.3
9. Berzins, VEF R.	13.3
10. Kaufmanis, Valmie.	13.1

Rebounds Per Game

Roberts MEDNIS
  Turiba
  (204-C-89)
  Avg: 7.9

1. Mednis, Turiba	7.9
2. Berzins, VEF Riga	7.9
3. Cain, VEF Riga	7.6
4. Berzins, VEF R.	7.5
5. Rozitis, Zemgale	7.5
6. Hunter, Ventspils	7.1
7. Aleksejevs, Liepaja	6.7
8. Selakovs, VEF R.	6.3
9. Cavars, Barons	6.1
10. Veselovs, Valmiera	6.0

Assists Per Game

Dairis BERTANS
  VEF R.
  (192-G/F-89)
  Avg: 4.7

1. Bertans, VEF R.	4.7
2. Gabrans, Valmiera	4.5
3. Willjam, Barons	4.2
4. Mitchell, Liepaja	3.9
5. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	3.9
6. Bergmanis, Zemgale	3.7
7. Gailitis, VEF R.	3.5
8. Bertans, VEF Riga	3.2
9. Piternieks, LU	3.2
10. Janicenoks, VEF	3.1

Steals Per Game

Gatis JAHOVICS
  VEF R.
  (200-F-84)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Jahovics, VEF R.	2.2
2. Gailitis, VEF R.	1.9
3. Cain, VEF Riga	1.9
4. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	1.7
5. Mitchell, Liepaja	1.7
6. Bertans, VEF R.	1.6
7. Motivans, Turiba	1.6
8. Slisans, LU	1.6
9. Gabrans, Valmiera	1.6
10. Rozitis, LU	1.5

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Berzins, VEF R.	2.1
2. Rozitis, Zemgale	1.8
3. Skirmants, Barons	1.3
4. Mejeris, Liepaja	1.0
5. Meiers, Liepaja	0.8
6. Piternieks, LU	0.8
7. Kuzminskas, Ventsp.	0.8
8. Berzins, VEF Riga	0.8
9. Hunter, Ventspils	0.7
10. Aleksejevs, Liepa.	0.7

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

LEBANON

Champville and Riyadi earn wins at Arab Club Championship - by Eurobasket News
Champville and Riyadi victoriously opened their Arab Club Championship campaigns. They celebrated wins in Group B and A respectively.
Champville face Sahel of Kuwait in their first game at the tournament. Champville gave little chance for their opponents. The Lebanese team earned a 27:12 lead after the opening frame. Sahel stopped the rot and the teams exchanged baskets throughout the next two periods. Sahel were able to cut the deficit in the final term but hardly challenged Champville at the end. Garnett Thompson (207-F/C-80, college: Providence) delivered 27 points and 9 rebounds to pace the winners. Mazen Mneimneh (192-G-86) added 15 points, while Jasmon Youngblood (195-G-84, college: Kent St.) provided 11 points in the victory.
In the meantime two-time defending champions Riyadi faced CRB Dar El-Beida of Algeria. Riyadi proved their strength claiming a comprehensive 87:71 win at the end. Riyadi held their opponents to just 9 points in the first frame to build a 6-point lead. The Lebanese team stretched it to 10 points heading into the final period and never looked back en route to the victory. Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) erupted for 28 points to lead the charge. Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) contributed 16 points in the winning effort.

Champville beat Ahli for second straight win in UAE - by Eurobasket News
Champville - Ahli 113:94

Champville recorded the second straight win at the Arab Club Championship. They breezed past Omani Ahli in Group B. Garnett Thompson (207-F/C-80, college: Providence) stepped up with 30 points and 8 boards to pace the Lebanese powerhouse.
Champville had to overcome a resistant start from the Omani team early in the game. The Lebanese team posted a 28:20 lead after ten minutes. Champville limited their opponents to 10 points in the second term and stretched the margin to as many as 27 points at halftime 57:30. Champville dominated after the big break easily opening a 30+ advantage and cruised to the win at the end. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) provided 29 points, while Jasmon Youngblood (195-G-84, college: Kent St.) contributed 12 points in the victory. Scott Thompson (213-F/C) responded with 30 points for Ahli. Champville will take on ASU of Jordan tomorrow. Ahli will next take on Karkh.

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

MALTA

Athleta edge Siggiewi - by Eurobasket News
Athleta A-Z Electronics continued their winning run at the second phase of the championship. Lately they overcame defending champions Siggiewi 74:51. Athleta stormed into the game. They stunned their opponents with a 23:2 run in the opening frame. Siggiewi could not come back to life in the second quarter. They allowed Athleta to clear off to a 30-point distance at halftime 12:42. Siggiewi finally stopped the bleeding after the big break. They outscored Athleta in the second half to sweeten the pill a bit. Michael Naudi (193-G/F-80) and Kristin-Paul Baldacchino (184-G-81) knocked down 19 points each to pace the winners. Dirk Schembri (193-F-85) provided 13 points for Athleta. Marko Matijevic (200-F-78) replied with 30 points for Siggiewi. Adrian Micallef (190-F-79) finished with 10 points in defeat. Athleta will face Luxol on Wednesday.

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

MONTENEGRO

NT player Vladimir Dasic ends successful season in Italy - by Eurobasket News
Vladimir Dasic (207-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) just ended very successful season in Italy. The Montenegrin power forward spent it with Lottomatica Roma. Despite the club failed to reach the Playoffs in SerieA, Dasic had a great season individually averaging 11.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists for 30 games. Lottomatica ended as No.9 with 14-16 record. His season-high was 23 points against Vanoli Cremona.
Vladimir Dasic also demonstrated good performance in Euroleague this season. He appeared 16 times for the club registering 8.4 ppg and 4.8 rpg. He helped Lottomatica reach the TOP 16 phase. They ended as No.3 in Group F with 2-4 record. Dasic played Real Madrid last season. He is active member of the Montenegrin National Team.

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

NBA

Bogut denies interest in playing for Cibona - by Eurobasket News
A bizarre story emerged this weekend from Croatia, where it was reported that Bucks center Andrew Bogut (212-F/C-84, college: Utah) - whose parents emigrated to Australia from Croatia - and his father were in talks to have Bogut play for European stalwart Cibona in the event of a lockout.

According to the website Vecernji.hr, Cibona Zagreb's president Zdenko Antunovic said: 'We are in direct contact with Andrew (Bogut) and his father Mio. Like real patriots, they want to help Cibona, and without any salary, only with paid insurance. Bogut's only condition is that we play at the Euroleague.'

Bogut, though, was surprised to hear the news. In a series of statements on Twitter, Bogut said, 'Just got word that Im signing with Cibona if the lookout were to go ahead?? I have NEVER spoken to the president of bball at Cibona.'

'So I'm not sure where his comments are coming from and on what grounds. As all players will through this lockout I will always have an open mind [regarding] clubs worldwide. As of today my only concern is getting my elbow right and working on my game this offseason.'

Bogut had right elbow surgery less than a month ago, a follow-up to the elbow surgery he had last year after suffering a dislocated elbow at the end of the 09-10 season. He played this season without full range of motion in the elbow, a big factor in his drop from 15.9 points on 52.0 percent shooting last year to 12.8 points on 49.5 percent shooting (and 44.2 percent free-throw shooting) this year.

Courtesy of www.aol.sportingnews.com

Nenad Krstic keen on staying with Celtics - by Eurobasket News
Februarys trade disrupted everyone involved - the Celtics for making such a big late-season change, Kendrick Perkins for tearing him away from the team he loved, and Jeff Green for turning him from a featured starting player into Paul Pierce's backup.

Nenad Krstic (7'0''-C-83), like Green, had to adjust to coming off the bench.

But unlike Green, the Serbian center faded into the back of coach Doc Rivers priorities. With the exception of Game 5 of the conference semifinals, when he played a larger role because of Jermaine ONeals back spasms, Krstic was relegated to a few minutes in the first half of each playoff game, if he played at all.

Rivers, known to lose faith in newcomers and youngsters who dont produce right away, had little use for Krstic by the end.

But Krstic, an impending unrestricted free agent, is willing to give the Celtics another try. Indeed, he wants to show all concerned what he can do when not pressed into the rush job that was his attempt to fit in during the last three months a transition marred when Krstic, at different times, bruised both of his knees.

I want to come back here, he said. Obviously I want to see what my options are, but I definitely like the organization and I like the team. If you ask me, yes, but I dont know if they want me.

Rivers, who agreed to a five-year contract extension Friday, may be a tough read in that respect.

But Danny Ainge, architect of that controversial trade, wants to see this project work, too.

Were interested in bringing him back, the Celtics general manager said. He played great when he first got here, and then he hit a little slump. He wasnt playing well for a while, and then he got hurt. He had the bruised knee. We were worried it was something worse. It seemed that anyone playing center for us got hurt.

He never got his starting job back after he got hurt, and then he got hurt again on the other knee. So he had two bruised knees. He was finally healthy by the time the Miami series started, but by then Jermaine was playing really well defensively for us, and Doc was trying to get (Glen Davis) confidence back, and was trying to get something out of Baby that we had the first half of the season. In the last game Krstic was back, ready and contributing.

Not coincidentally, Krstic hit a pair of midrange jumpers a welcome change from the post offense he was asked to handle shortly after joining the team. Krstic has been known as a so-called pick-and-pop center, which immediately made him a poor fit for Rivers sets.

But Krstic believes he would benefit greatly from a full training camp.

Its totally different when you have a training camp with the team, he said. Just getting used to the plays and teammates, just everything, is totally different. When youre traded like I was, its tough, especially coming into this team that wants to win right now. That was really tough, but well see.

It became especially difficult once Krstic, sent to the bench, experienced a major drop in minutes. Like Green, he was expected to provide instant energy in a short period of time.

For me it was up and down, he said. I had 30-plus minutes from when I first got here, and then it changed a little bit. I came from playing 35 minutes to not playing much or at all. Thats tough, too.

You come into a game and you dont know if you are going to play or not. But I understand my role right now, especially in the playoffs. Its all about winning. Thats the coachs decision, and I really respect that.

Courtesy of www.bostonherald.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	26.5
3. Wade, Miami Heat	25.5
4. Rose, Chicago B.	25.5
5. Anthony, Denver N.	25.2
6. Bryant, LA Lakers	25.1
7. Stoudemire, New Y.	24.7
8. Ellis, Golde S.	24.1
9. Nowitzki, Dallas M.	23.7
10. Martin, Houston R.	23.5

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	9.9
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.	11.0
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..	8.0
10. Rose, Chicago B.	7.7

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Bogut, Milwauke.	2.6
2. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.5
3. McGee, Washingt.	2.4
4. Howard, Orlando M.	2.3
5. Milicic, Minnesota	2.0
6. Duncan, San A.	2.0
7. Stoudemire, New Y.	1.9
8. Bynum, LA Lakers	1.9
9. Jefferson, Utah J.	1.9
10. Jordan, LA Clippe.	1.8

New Jersey Nets owner agrees to head pro-Kremlin political party - by Eurobasket News
Russian tycoon and New Jersey Nets basketball team owner Mikhail Prokhorov says his decision to head a pro-Kremlin political party was an uneasy one.

Prokhorov said Monday he would head the Just Cause party - what he later called in televised remarks an uneasy and somewhat surprising decision.

Just Cause hopes to win legislature seats in December parliamentary elections.

The establishing of the party is widely seen by critics as an attempt by the Kremlin to lure opposition-minded, pro-business voters, while creating an illusion of competition with the ruling United Russia party ahead of elections.

Prokhorov, who made a fortune in metals and banking, bought a majority share in the New Jersey Nets basketball team last May.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Miami Heat / Chicago Bulls post game quotes - by Eurobasket News

Tom Thibodeau

Q:Home court was not that much of a factor in the Atlanta series, but do you expect it to be more of a factor

Tom Thibodeau : You have to be ready. Moving forward the next game, you have to concentrate on that game. So that's all we're doing. The fact that it's home, it's important for us to play well, because it's our next game. But we can't rely on just being home to think that's why we're going to win.

Q: Why do you think you've had so much success keeping this team on point all season? If you look to any player, they say, 'We can play better. There's a ton we have to clean up.'

Tom Thibodeau : Because I think you build your habits throughout the course of the season. We wanted to be consistent with our approach. We didn't want to change from game to game or situation to situation, whether you were facing back to back, early start, late start, whatever it is.
In this league, if you look, you can find an excuse every night, or you can make it good. You prepare the same way, build the right habits, do the right things and put everything you have in it.

Q: Surely you've been around NBA teams that did not accept that, you know, procedure, though, or it might have gone different agendas, different ways. Is it a luxury to have that as a coach?

Tom Thibodeau : Well, I think the serious teams do. When you look at the teams that do well year after year, that's the approach they take. They improve as the season goes along. They're all well balanced. They build the right habits. They play hard, and they play for each other.

Q: Do you feel your team is improving as the playoffs go along?

Tom Thibodeau : I'm hopeful. That's what we strive for. Every day in the season we want to improve.

Q: When Wade and LeBron go 12 for 32, what have you done right?

Tom Thibodeau : Well, the thing is you don't guard those guys individually. You have to guard them collectively. They missed some shots that they normally make. So we know we're going to have to do a much better job in the next game.

Q: You've been associated with two teams now that have had obviously good defensive success against LeBron. Do you feel like you have a good sense for I'm not saying you solved the guy, but do you feel like you have a good sense for how to attack

Tom Thibodeau : Well, you know, I think you want your team committed to defense. They're great players. You want to make them work for their points. I think to their credit, both Wade and James, they're both unselfish. When they're double teamed, they're going to pass the ball. And then from there you have to be able to react out and cover the next situation. But because they play unselfishly, sometimes people think they're not doing a lot. But they are. They are creating easy offense for others. Then the challenge for us is to protect the paint and get back out and try to cover all the other guys.

Q: What is the key to the team defense being successful? Is it communication? Is it energy? When everything is clicking.

Tom Thibodeau : It's probably it's a lot of things put into one, where you have to tie everyone together. Whether it's your defensive transition, your catch and shoot defense, your pick and roll defense, your post defense, your isolation defense, if one guy is breaking down, your whole system will break down.
So they have to communicate, they have to make multiple effort, they have to challenge shots, and they have to finish their defense.

Q: At what point in this season do you feel your players understood your defensive concepts?

Tom Thibodeau : It's not that complicated. It's pretty simple. Honestly, I think the big thing is it starts with your offense, like taking care of the ball and taking the right shots, which allows you to get back and get set. And then we try to play the ball a certain way, and everyone else has a responsibility to help. And from there, we want to make sure we're challenging shots, try to make our opponent take contested twos and finish our defense.

Q: One of the things Erik said over in the Heat practice today is he hopes that they can match the energy, effort and enthusiasm you guys feed off of off Noah. Do you think it's possible to exceed Noah's effort and enthusiasm?

Tom Thibodeau : I think that's one of his strengths, is the fact that he can play with great energy every day, whether it's in practice or the games. But I think we have a number of guys who do that.

Q: How does his leadership (Indiscernible)?

Tom Thibodeau : When you look at the leadership of the team and you look at Derrick, Luol, Joakim and Carlos, they help drive the team. I think every day they do a great job in practice. They set the tone for practice. All the things they do, they don't try to take any practices off. They practice hard. We also have great veteran leadership at the end of the bench. Guys like Kurt Thomas, Scalabrine and Bogans. They've done a great job, so you have a team that's committed. And we know we still have a long way to go, and we have to get a lot better.

Q: Tom, the way Luol played yesterday, does that basically sum up the season pretty much

Tom Thibodeau : Well, you guys have been around. He's been very consistent all year long. His defense, his rebounding, his passing, his activity. And it's not only his individual defense; his team defense. It has a lot to do with the team being a good defensive team because of his ability to guard multiple positions consistently, makes multiple efforts. And sometimes you overlook all the stuff that he's doing out there. But I think to his teammates and coaches, we certainly understand how important he is to our team. Thank you.

Luol Deng (6'7''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke):
Run the same defense all year. Just we've been doing the same thing since training camp. Guys are just doing we're used to doing the same thing.

Q: Does the repetition ever get boring?

Luol Deng: Boring? That's a trap. No. It works, so it's fine. So we keep doing it.

Q: Do you think that attention to detail and that repetition in practice throughout the season has helped you guys?

Luol Deng: Yeah. It's becoming a habit. It's just instincts now. Especially our bigs. Our bigs were great last game, just stepping up on the switches. Did a good job on the trap. That last series also against Atlanta.
And it's just what we've been doing all year, so guys are getting better at it.

Q: What kind of luxury is it as a team to have a defense where you have big guys like Omer and Joakim and Taj, big wing players?

Luol Deng: It's great. We trust each other. The trust is just there. The guards, we could go up and pressure the ball knowing our bigs are going to be there.

Q: When you signed that contract in 2008, I think a lot of people thought you're going to turn into a big scorer. Do you think versatility is under appreciated?

Luol Deng: I mean, it's a lot of contract, not contract, whatever. Versatility definitely is. But when you're playing great, everyone sees it. When you're struggling, everyone sees it. People always going to have opinions, whether you're worth the money or not. It's just how it goes. It's just the league we play in.

Q: How do you prevent a letdown in Game 2. Maintain that emotional intensity?

Luol Deng: I think we have to know this is best out of seven. We did a good job of winning game one. We did great, great result for us. But we have to let that go, especially playing a team like this. They have guys who just can take over games and could go off at any time. We have to realize that if they win the next game, it changes everything. It's still a big game.

LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) & Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette)

LeBron James: Same thing. Treat every game like it's its own. That's why this is a series. You see the mistakes we made in Game 1, the things that we can control, and you come out with a better mindset and try to get Game 2.

Q: First half you guys were pretty good. Why was that not the case in the second half?

Dwyane Wade: I think we gave up a lot of second chance points. Anytime with a team like that, you hold them and (Indiscernible) you give up, they come up with threes and lay ups and dunks, it demoralizes you. So we know we have to do a better job of cleaning the glass.

Q: Seems like energy and hustle was a factor. They seemed to get to every loose ball. How do you combat that from game to game?

Dwyane Wade: That's the way they play. I said it from the beginning of the series. They obviously have a good team. They do all the little things to become the best team in the league. So, you know, we have to match that.

Q: How does it change the two days?

LeBron James: It's the series. That's it. We learn from our mistakes and come up with a better game plan.

Q: What surprised you most?

LeBron James: We can't give a team like that 31 second chance points. We had so many turnovers. We can't allow a team like that

Q: (Indiscernible)?

Dwyane Wade: We have to get better second chance effort. And rebounding. There's not just going to be one guy getting 13, 14 rebounds. We all have to chip in and box guys out.

Q: The total number of points that they beat you with the three games in the regular season was eight.

LeBron James: We can lose by 100. This is the playoffs. This is only one game. It's just one game.

Q: Tell me about the days off. Is it better to have two games off? Does it matter?

LeBron James: You have to sit in and see how bad you played for a couple of days. Just resting our bodies a little bit. We can use a couple of days off, to make a couple of adjustments. They're up 1 0. It's our job to come back in Game 2.

Q: (Indiscernible)?

LeBron James: We have to go out and do the small things. We can't get outrebounded by them. We've been outrebounded four straight games.

Q: Does this feel like in the past against the Boston teams, because of the defensive schemes, does it seem similar?

Dwyane Wade: It is similar. You have to be patient. It's hard to attack on the front side of the defense because they load on the strong side. So you have to be able to get the ball from one side to another and attack their defense. They have a lot of athleticism. So you have to be patient.

Q: You didn't let that pressure you before. What's the key the nights you couldn't versus the nights you could?

Dwyane Wade: Just the preparation in between games, going over the film and seeing the things I could have done better. Come to the next game with more of a concerted effort to do the things I didn't do well the game before

Q: LeBron, emotionally, mentally, has this been a long, draining season for you?

LeBron James: It's not been draining. I planned on playing long this season. I knew everything I was going to cover this season as far as on the court and off the court. It hasn't been bad at all.

Q: Oprah is taking over the building one extra day. You guys are playing on Wednesday. Is this doing you guys a favor getting the extra day?

LeBron James: She's very important. Not only to the world, but to this city. We'll take a back seat to Oprah. We don't have a problem with that.

Q: Offensively in the second half, what was different for the team you couldn't get

LeBron James: We had a difficult time moving the ball. If you don't get the rebounds, it's going to be a long night. They did a good job of moving the ball, rebounding (Indiscernible).

Erik Spoelstra

Erik Spoelstra : So we're obviously very disappointed about last night's performance. We have to come in the next two days and try to fix some of the things that gave us problems.
We all know obviously the effort plays, the second chance opportunities -- all those things really deflated our focus and our concentration and effort there in the second half. With all that said, and with all the evaluations about the game, we are still in a position to take control with a win on Wednesday. And this whole series will be about enduring and how long can you endure through the physical grind, but just as importantly, the mental grind, because it's two very competitive physical teams.

Q: Udonis Haslem is the kind of guy, it would seem, if healthy, to offer exactly what you would need with hustle and rebounding and movement. Is he in a position to offer that, or is that simply not an option for you at this stage?

Erik Spoelstra : It's an option. I'll evaluate everything. The reality is a lot of the rebound, second chance effort plays were with our main guys on the court. And it's something we can do much better. We're a very good rebounding team. We've proven that all season long. We've got to revert back to our habits. And sometimes it's the little things, finishing off your defense, the next rotation to block out, and just as important, finishing the offensive rebound possessions. They had five big three pointers after an offensive rebound that we could have gotten to shooters and make an extra effort. We weren't able to do that.

Q: Similarly, Mike Miller is also another hustle kind of player. Very good rebounder, but also limited. Is he a guy who has the skill set that can cover, or is he simply not in shape enough to be an impact player?

Erik Spoelstra : He's ready. All these things we'll look at. We want to do it better as a group, and everybody that's out there can do a better job of it.

Q: Two of your centers, Zydrunas and Dampier, are inactive. They offer a lot of size. Is that something you may need to rethink?

Erik Spoelstra : I'll evaluate everything. We could do normally much better than we did last night.

Q: When you have conversations about the players (Indiscernible)?

Erik Spoelstra : Everybody understands. But we're disappointed about last night's game. We still have an opportunity. And sometimes you have to have amnesia going into Game 2. You can't just let it go. The next two and a half days we're going to work to fix some of these challenges that we had last night. But we still have to understand that Wednesday is a golden opportunity for us. And it doesn't matter.
Sometimes there're good performances, bad performances in the playoffs. That's really irrelevant. It really just comes down to a win and a loss. We lost the first one. We still are coming up here to try to get one. And we have an opportunity on Wednesday.

Q: Do you prefer to play sooner or later or are you glad to have the two days?

Erik Spoelstra : Like I said in the previous series, you probably would rather get going. But that's not the schedule we've been dealt. So we have to deal with it. And we can use the days to prep and work on some of these things.

Derrick Rose

DERRICK ROSE:

Three turnovers I think in the first
Q:arter. Then I think we got ten total. I think one in the second half. It was tough. You just learn from it, look at the film after practice with coach. Just going through everything. I see the mistakes. It shouldn't happen anymore.

Q: Derrick, they're a great team, obviously. What do you expect out of them differently in Game 2?

DERRICK ROSE: Play aggressive and attack more. If anything, go
Q:icker, probably, in transition. Get the ball up the floor Q:ick so they can't go against our set defense.

Q: Are you surprised people looking from the outside saying this is one of the most complete defensive games you guys have played, that you guys are looking at the parts you need to improve on?

DERRICK ROSE: That's the way we've been all season. We're not satisfied. Every time we feel good about ourselves, something knocks us down. We're trying to keep things going, making sure everybody stays positive, stay right and stay hungry.

Q: Do you think this is one of the main reasons for this team's success, the focus you've had within yourself?

DERRICK ROSE: Definitely. And Coach Thibs, you see how he focuses and prepares for the game, it makes you want to do the same. Stay in the office after the game. Not have a life.

Q: It makes you not want to have a life either?

DERRICK ROSE: Not right now. I have to sacrifice a lot of things.

Q: Does his approach ever get boring or annoying?

DERRICK ROSE: We get used to it now. I swear. Sometimes you are talking and you get used to it. You have to live with it.

Q: What kind of message did you guys deliver to yourselves by handling LeBron and the rest of the Heat last night?

DERRICK ROSE: They have great players. LeBron and D Wade and Chris Bosh, they are great players. We just tried to make it tough. That's the only thing we did. Last night we made sure we closed down the lane, stopped them from penetrating, and shoot jumpshots.

Q: What does that tell you guys about being successful the way you were?

DERRICK ROSE: We have to come out and play with that edge every game. Just totally play with that edge. It gives you so much confidence, especially with this team.

Q: When the Bulls defense is working, it's like a pack of Dobermans been let loose. Does it feel like everything is just working and attacking when you guys play like that?

DERRICK ROSE: It feels great when we are swarming the ball, everybody is communicating, we're getting rebounds, hustle plays, things like that. The fans are into it. They know we're playing hard. It gives us an edge.

Q: You guys have won a lot of games when you have had to score a lot of games and dominate. But also you've won a lot of games when it was a team effort. How much more satisfying is it to you when everybody is involved?

DERRICK ROSE: It makes my job easy, especially when everybody is knocking down shots and playing with that confidence. If anything, our defense starts everything.
Just making sure we play hard and we just got to stick together. There's going to be times where it's going to be tough. But we have to make sure we're all on the same page.

Q: You won in Atlanta, Atlanta won here. Do you expect that to happen in this series with home court not being as significant?

DERRICK ROSE: You never know. I think we'll have a good shot of winning the next game if we come out and play with the edge like we did, play with a lot of intensity. We have to be ready with the ball. Next game they are definitely going to go out there and play hard.

Q: Your penetration getting Miami out of position to get rebounds, you guys obviously had a huge game on the offensive glass. How do you expect them to counter that?

DERRICK ROSE: Everybody crashing. They are going to make sure they put bodies on people. We have to try hard. We've been doing this the whole season. I think we rebound the ball pretty well. So guys on our team, we just try hard to go out there and be together, have Joakim and Booze on the rebounding side.

CARLOS BOOZER

CARLOS BOOZER:
We can play better. They'll come out looking to score more points. Better defense. They'll play better. We expect them to play better. But we feel like we can play better too.

Q: Do you think Ilgauskas and Dampier being inactive, they obviously chose to go small. Do you expect maybe they are going to switch that for Game 2 to offset the rebounding?

CARLOS BOOZER: I have no idea. I think like I said, we expect them to play very much better. We expect to play better as well.

Q: What did you think of Taj's game last night?

CARLOS BOOZER: Phenomenal. He was a monster last night. He's been a monster all season long for us. The two dunks he had were inspiring. His defense was great last night as well. But his two dunks were something special.

Q: Can you tell a little more about the bench, the so called bench mob and the impact they have had on this team?

CARLOS BOOZER: They're one of the reasons we're here. All season long they've been great, from the beginning of training camp all the way to now. Our second unit comes in. Most of the time they usually extend the lead or at least keep it even. So for us it's less pressure we have. Our best mob is phenomenal.

Q: Playing that kind of defense, maybe you have had trouble with that the first two series. How can you come back now and play at that level again?

CARLOS BOOZER: It's the way we've been playing all season. We played great defense all year. We've been ranked No. 1 or No. 2 in defense all year. We do what we always do.

Q: Do you think LeBron's tough shooting night was your defense?

CARLOS BOOZER: I thought Luol did a great job on him. Made him take tough shots. Tried to take away the paint as much as possible. He's a good player. He makes tough shots. Don't get me wrong. He's one of them guys that can make tough shots in this league. We were fortunate last night.

Q: Not being on the all defensive team, you guys not being favored to win this series, feels like you guys are not getting a lot of respect.

CARLOS BOOZER: I think it's normal for us. We've been the underdog all season. We didn't have this many cameras during the training camp or during the season. We're used to that role.

Q: How much fun is this for you personally

CARLOS BOOZER: It's fun. Fun. This is what we've all came for. We came to win. We did a great job last night and we look forward to the next game.

Q: How do you avoid an emotional letdown?

CARLOS BOOZER: We won't have an emotional letdown. We're ready. We've been ready all season. We're pumped up. We're excited. If you can't get excited for this, what are you playing for? We're not going to have that.

Q: You're not playing until Wednesday. Do you wish you were playing tomorrow to keep it going?

CARLOS BOOZER: We would like to play every day. It's good to be able to look at the tape, look at the films, look at the mistakes we made, try to improve on that. And we'll be ready for Game 2. They will too. It will be a great game.

Q: Carlos, you know LeBron. You know how good he is. Do you think he'll come out with even more of a vengeance?

CARLOS BOOZER: He's a great player. We look forward to playing against him again. It's a great matchup for our team and a great challenge.

JOAKIM NOAH

Q:What kind of adjustments do you think they might make going into Game 2?

JOAKIM NOAH: I don't know. We're just focused on what we need to do. And we are sure we can improve in certain areas.

Q: Talk about keeping that defensive intensity going on another night.

JOAKIM NOAH: We know they'll be more aggressive, and we feel like we can be more aggressive as well.

Q: They went with a smaller lineup. Do you expect them to do that again, or change it up?

JOAKIM NOAH: I have no idea.

Q: Do you think that's been one reason why you guys have been so successful this season, because you focus on your own team and what you guys need to do, as opposed to worrying about what your opponent might be doing?

JOAKIM NOAH: Well, a wise man once told me control what you can control. I think those are words of wisdom.

Q: Was that wise man named Tom Thibedeau?

JOAKIM NOAH: No, it wasn't Thibedeau.

Q: In that last series the visitors won. Is home court going to be more of a guarded thing in this series?

JOAKIM NOAH: I don't know. We're just trying to take it one game at a time. We know that when we playing in the UC, we're tough to beat. But who knows what happens in a series, you know? Just focus on what you can control.We had a good day of practice today. I'm going to sit in the pool tank, get a massage. It's nice outside. Maybe sit outside and get ready for a good practice tomorrow.

Q: When Gar was building the team, they said they believed that defensive rebounding will build a championship. How long did it take for you guys to buy into that same formula?

JOAKIM NOAH: We have some very good rebounders. I think that our guards do a good job rebounding as well. We understand that winning the rebounding battle is important for winning basketball games.

Q: You guys were all talking about you have to do things better, the things you need to clean up. Is this simply a negative after the game works well?

JOAKIM NOAH: I don't think it's negative. Just being on edge, respecting our opponent. It's not one win that makes us satisfied. We're trying to do something bigger than just win one game.

Q: Have you had a chance to look at Taj Gibson' dunks? Do they look better on video?

JOAKIM NOAH: They are very nice dunks. They were very nice.

Q: What do you guys have to do different against Bosh?

JOAKIM NOAH: We have to do a better job on him. Me in particular. He got a lot of easy baskets around the rim, tip ins when I was helping off of him. Chris is a hell of a player. We just got to try to slow him down a little bit.

Q: How much of a factor was Derrick's penetration as far as you guys being in position to get offensive rebounds?

JOAKIM NOAH: That has a lot to do with it. Derrick gets to the rim a lot. The bigs have to help, to put smaller guys on us, trying to box us out. They are doing similar situations too with D Wade penetrating. Chris got a lot of his offense that way as well.

Q: What makes your defense so successful as a team?

JOAKIM NOAH: Repetition. Practice hasn't changed one bit since the first day of practice. It's the same practice every day. Overall, it's really the same thing. A lot of repetition.

Q: You mentioned yourself yesterday after the game, haven't given you guys a chance to win the series relishing a performance like yesterday changed a lot of people's minds about that.

JOAKIM NOAH: We're not worried about what people think. The only thing that matters is what we think of each other in our locker room. The mindset is the same. It doesn't matter if you're the underdog or the guy on top. At the end of the day you have to go out there and compete.

Q: What was it like in the locker room at halftime? Derrick told you guys that those turnovers were on him. He mentioned a few things? Derrick, he said he talked about wanting to cut his turnovers down at halftime. What was that? What was going on there?

JOAKIM NOAH: Just Derrick is always like that. He's really hard on himself all the time. That's what makes him a hell of a player. He wants to help the team. It's all about the team. And we know that if we can keep our turnovers down, we'll have a better chance of winning the game. They are so good off of turnovers, scoring off turnovers.

Q: It has to kind of want to make other guys play hard when you hear him talk that humble. When you and Taj were switched on to LeBron yesterday, what kind of luxury do you think that is for a team to be able to have bigs that can play that kind of defense?

JOAKIM NOAH: I think it's good. I think Omer did a great job as well.

Q: Right.

JOAKIM NOAH: Taj did great. Omer did great. We just have to do a better job of staying on our feet and not jumping one thing they're very good at, getting to the line on pump fakes, on switches. They got to the line a lot all night. So if we can stop that, it's going to help us even more.

Courtesy of www.chicagonow.com

Preview of Thunder vs Mavericks Western Conference Finals series - by Eurobasket News
For only the second time since 1997, neither the San Antonio Spurs nor the Los Angeles Lakers will be taking part in the Western Conference Finals. Instead, two cities separated by about 200 miles will host said festivities. Oklahoma City is about a 3-hour drive from Dallas, right up I-35. But when comparing the makeup of the two clubs, the proximity is more like worlds apart.

The Mavericks have been here before. During the Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) era, Dallas has reached the WCF in 2003 and 2006. Rick Carlisle is an experienced coach with a veteran roster Jason Kidd (6'4''-G-73, college: California), Shawn Marion, Tyson Chandler, Peja Stojakovic, Jason Terry, and so on. These are guys with a ton of playoff experience.

Since the move from Seattle, this would be new territory for the Thunder. Both Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) and Russell Westbrook (6'3''-G-88, college: UCLA) are 22 years-old either would represent the youngest player on Dallas active roster. Whats more, two other key members of Ok Citys rotation, Serge Ibaka and James Harden, are even greener.

Youth, to this point, has not been a problem for Scott Brooks club. Granted, Denver and Memphis arent exactly battle-tested. Still, to make the conference finals means youve won two rounds. And while some folks might feel coming off a seven-game series could be a disadvantage to the Thunder, it might also serve them going forward in terms of experience in an elimination environment. Could that benefit OKC so soon? Tough to say.

Neither team has an answer for the opposing superstar. Kevin Durant and Dirk Nowitzki will get theirs. Russell Westbrook could be a real problem for Dallas, though he only shot 32 percent against the Mavs this season. Still, no matchup is more favorable for either club than what the Thunder have at the point. The Mavs must rely on the type of team defense that helped contain Kobe Bryant. Westbrook is, to this point, the most dynamic playmaker Dallas has seen this postseason.

The bigs for these teams should provide steady interior presence and rebounding. Tyson Chandler and Kendrick Perkins have certainly made big splashes with their new clubs. Both are coming off tough second-round assignments. Perkins was dealing with Marc Gasol, Chandler with Andrew Bynum. Since neither center poses much of an offensive threat, these two will working away from one another and helping teammates more defensively.

Dallas is, without a doubt, the deeper team. If Oklahoma City has any hope of making the Finals, slowing down Jason Terry is essential. James Harden must, at the very least, play his sixth man counterpart to a standstill. Continuing down the bench, we look for the Eric Maynor/J.J. Barea minutes to be an area of focus. The Lakers found out firsthand the damage Barea could inflict coming off high screens.

Dallas last played eight days ago, blowing away the Lakers on Mothers Day. Since then, Oklahoma City has played three games, including one triple-overtime affair. In certain cases, there could be a rest-versus-rust debate. Not here. The arrow may be pointing in different directions for these two franchises, but OKC will have to wait a little longer.

Again, the Mavs are an experienced bunch. They have been watching the Thunder/Grizzlies along with the rest of us. The rest should be what the doctor ordered for Dallas. I like the Mavericks to win this series in six games and advance to the NBA Finals.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Doc Rivers puts loss of Perk into context - by Eurobasket News
Just days after Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers agreed to a five year contract extension, he seems more ready than ever to talk about the moment that things went south for the Cs (no pun intended). Essentially calling the decision to trade Kendrick Perkins (6'10''-C-84) back at the end of February 'bad timing,' Doc has vindicated frustrated fans who voiced their concerns all along. While this isn't a big revelation to the fellow fans I know here in western Mass, it puts an exclamation point on just how important the team dynamic really was.

Doc's decision to stay on did much to bring fans back up from the Boston Celtics' bitter loss to Miami. Heck, with the seemingly never-ending talk about his retirement (which was always right around the corner), the news that he'll stay was welcome indeed. Considering what happened after the departure of Kendrick Perkins, there's no telling just how big of an impact the loss of Doc would've had on the Cs' next season.

The recent radio interview with WEEI was a rare chance to get some much-needed perspective now that the dust has settled. On the plus side, Doc has made it clear that he's committed to guiding the team into the future as the green machine looks to regain their footing. Of the necessary rebuilding effort, Doc said 'I don't think anyone's looking forward to that, but I'm willing to do that.'

Nobody would've blamed Doc for taking a job with another team or just taking a well-deserved break. We all know he's right; there's a foggy road ahead for the Cs. Nevertheless, Doc explained his decision to stay saying 'Coaches talk about loyalty and team all the time. I just thought it was time to show it. And that's what I did.'

As far as the Perk trade, Doc said that after the move was made, 'the know-how went away. The continuity went away.' The trade removed a guy who knew the team's offense inside and out and brought in someone who 'only knows what he knows since he's been there.' It limited Rondo, it limited the team, and as Doc said, 'it took away more than we thought.'

Maybe most revealing of all was the way Doc characterized the Cs' advantage over other teams during what was originally a solid season. Saying that the Celtics had 'a lot of moving parts,' Doc went on to say 'the advantage that we had was that we had continuityonce we made that trade, we took that advantage away.'

So Doc would've waited until the year was over before making that trade. While we'll never know how the Cs' fortunes would've unfolded without that trade, it looks like Ainge jumped the gun and squandered what was arguably the Cs' greatest strength. It's not just that these players were friends, it's that they were a well-oiled machine. Not wise to tinker with an engine while it's still running.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Carlos Boozer grateful to Bulls 'family' - by Eurobasket News
While Chicago Bulls power forward Carlos Boozer (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Duke) suffered through a slump, a painful turf toe injury and boos from many fans during the postseason, his teammates never wavered in their encouragement. It's a support that the veteran power forward appreciates.

'I love my teammates, man,' Boozer said after Saturday afternoon's practice. 'We've been defending each other all season, no matter who was going through what throughout the course of the year. We've always had each other's back. We're all like a family. A lot of people say that, but we really are. It felt great to have everybody on my side that's in this locker room and that's how we've been all season. And we don't listen to what you guys write about, talk about, we listen to each other. And we focus on what we talk about.'

Boozer believes that the kind of support he received can help on the floor.

'Of course it does,' he said. 'When you have your teammates out there with you, you know the guy behind you has your back, he knows that you have his back. That's what a team is supposed to do.'

The rest of the Bulls seem genuinely happy to see Boozer break out of his slump. He had his best game of the postseason in Thursday's clinching Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Atlanta Hawks, scoring 23 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.

Bulls point guard Derrick Rose believes Boozer was just 'overthinking.'

'When you're not playing as well as you're supposed to be playing, that's the only thing that you do, you overthink,' Rose said after Friday's practice. 'In this game you just got to play. You do whatever the game tells you to do, and at the time, Booz was just trying to force things. Now, he played great [Thursday] shooting the ball, not hesitating, making moves when he needs to and just speeding up his timing.'

After Thursday's performance, Rose believes Boozer is back on track.

'It's huge,' Rose said of the boost to Boozer's morale. 'Definitely huge. We need him. We definitely need him. Everybody needs to come together now, but I think that we're there and we'll have to see how things go.'

Boozer continues to say his toe is feeling better, while acknowledging that he is still playing through some pain. He's just looking forward to the challenge of facing the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference finals starting Sunday night.

Boozer realizes that the Heat will probably be favored, but he's all right with the Bulls playing the underdog role.

'We've been the underdog all season,' Boozer said. 'Nobody's really talking about us to start the season. Nobody was talking about us during the season. Nobody's talking about us now. For us, we're in the position we've been in all season. It's not unfamiliar territory. We've been in here all season long. Just been plugging away, getting better every day and that's what we'll continue to do. Keep plugging away and keep getting better.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Dirk Nowitzki scores 48 as Mavericks beat Thunder 121-112 in Game One - by Eurobasket News
Rust? What rust?

Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) showed no signs of it after a long layoff, making 10 of his first 11 shots and an NBA playoff-record 24 straight free throws on the way to 48 points Tuesday night, leading the Dallas Mavericks to a 121-112 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in game one of the Western Conference finals.

'I was really looking to shoot early and was able to get my rhythm after the first couple of shots', Nowitzki said. 'I kept attacking and my teammates kept feeding me and feeding me and I was able to take advantage over some smaller players.'

Jason Terry (188-G-77, college: Arizona) scored 24 points and Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) added 21 as the Mavericks picked up where they left off in a sweep of the Lakers nine days before. They broke open a tight game with a 13-0 run late in the second quarter and never trailed again, stretching their franchise-record postseason winning streak to seven games.

Game two is Thursday night in Dallas, where the Mavs are 6-0 this postseason.

The Thunder - fresh off a seven-game series against Memphis that included a total of four overtimes - led by nine early in the second quarter, then went 6:28 between baskets. Oklahoma City missed 10 shots during that drought and was down by 11 when it ended. It eventually trailed by 16 before clawing within five points with 3:42 left, and six with 48.5 seconds to play.

When things tightened up in the final minutes, Nowitzki helped protect Dallas lead with two jumpers over Serge Ibaka, and an assist on a three-pointer by Terry with 28.9 seconds left.

'It was closer than we wanted in the fourth quarter, but we came through', Nowitzki said.

Kevin Durant (206-G/F-88, college: Texas) followed his 39 points in game seven of the previous round by scoring 40, one shy of his most ever in a playoff game.

Russell Westbrook (191-G-88, college: UCLA) went from a triple-double in his last game to 20 points, three assists and three rebounds. He missed 12 of his 15 shots, including 10 of his first 11.

Courtesy of www.kansascity.com

Lotto fever: Heat is on Timberwolves to reverse their lottery curse - by Milord Nikolic
This is the year the Timberwolves need to get some satisfaction out of the NBA draft lottery. After Duke point guard Kyrie Irving and Arizona forward Derrick Williams, there is a significant drop-off in star power and potential, putting more stress on the Wolves to come away with the No. 1 or No. 2 pick - something its club has never done in previous 13 lottery appearances. Most scouting reports have Irving and Williams entrenched as the top two prospects for the June 23 draft, with Irving emerging as the consensus overall No. 1 selection. Falling outside the top two picks tonight could be demoralizing for the Wolves, who can finish no lower than fourth. Irving and Williams certainly will be gone by then, which would leave the Wolves in the familiar position of missing out on the upper tier of draft.

(3)Mavericks vs. (4)Thunder series preview - by Daniel Gibson
DALLAS---The Dallas Mavericks versus the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals appears to be an evenly matched series overall but each team has a few mismatches that could be a serious problem for its opponent.

Who guards Dirk?

Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) has averaged 26.5 points per game and 8.50 rebounds throughout the playoffs for the Mavs.

He put those numbers up against the Portland Trailblazers, who most thought would overpower the soft Mavs and against the two-time defending champion Lakers.

The Mavs and Dirk appear to have shed that soft tag and look like they are ready to get back to the Finals.

For them to do that Dirk will have to continue doing what hes been doing so far.giving the other opposition headaches.

He is too big for smaller defenders to defend and he will take them to the free-throw line, turn, and shoot right over the top of them. When a bigger defender is sent to check him Dirk gets them out of their comfort zone,the paint, and sets them up on the perimeter with a pump fake. If they jump he usually draws the foul or drives around them.

I expect Kendrick Perkins (6'10''-C-84), Nick Collison (6'9''-F-80, college: Kansas), and rest of the Thunder to try to be physical with Dirk but he has shown in the previous two series that he wont be turned away by a hard foul.

Instead he goes to the foul line where he is shooting over 90%.

Who guards Westbrook?

Russell Westbrook (6'3''-G-88, college: UCLA) is one of the elite young guards in the game. He stays in attack mode and his combination of strength, speed, and athleticism will be tough for Jason Kidd (6'4''-G-73, college: California) to contend with at 35 years old.

Kidd is a veteran that knows the game as well as any PG to ever play but will he have enough in the tank to stay in front of Westbrook all game?

The energy that Kidd expends trying to contain Westbrook on defense could take away from his offensive production and cause his jumpers to come up short late in games if he has tired legs.

Kidd's back up Barea is a small guy that Westbrook will attack also. Chandler will have to be prepared to step up and challenge Westbrook's layup attempts because he can get into the paint at will.

The Mavs may look to Roddy Beubois who is young and athletic to offset Westbrook. Beubois and Barea may be able to attack Westbrook on the offensive end and make him his energy guarding them as well.

What will they do with KD?

Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) is the Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) of the Thunder. He has a similar body type and game but he is more athletic. Desean Stevenson and Shawn Marion (6'7''-F-78, college: UNLV) will have their hands full trying to defend him.

Similarly to Dirk, teams have tried to be physical with Durant but he is learning to play through it, not be frustrated, but return the defensive aggression with his own aggression by driving to the basket and drawing fouls.

Look for Stevenson to attempt to strong arm Durant.

Bench Production:

Both the Thunder and the Mavs depend on their bench to produce each game.

They have reserves like Jason Terry (6'2''-G-77, college: Arizona) and James Harden (6'5''-G-89, college: Arizona St.) that could just as easily be starters but are used to bring a scoring threat off the bench to carry the second unit and run with the first unit in spurts.

If one or two of these players gets hot they can change the game and maybe the entire series. Whichever bench plays better will play a huge role in which team wins the game.

This series has all the makings of a great one on paper. Both teams have been playing exciting games and scoring a lot of points.

At the end of the day though, I have to go with the Dallas Mavericks advancing to the NBA Finals for a rematch with the Miami Heat. Mavs in 5 games.

I wanted to say Mavs in 6 but I feel like I keep predicting 6 games for most of these series haha so BOOM. 5 games.

The Mavs have the experience and the veterans to execute down the stretch. Dirk is a deadly shooter from anywhere on the court and they knocked off the defending champs, and made it look easy.

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

NCAA1

P.J. Hairston Signed with North Carolina After Duke Kept Misspelling His Name - by Milord Nikolic
P.J. Hairston is a pretty easy name to spell and remember. Its two initials and a simple last name P.J. Hairston. Pretty easy, right? You would think so, but apparently that was not the case for Duke. Hairston is a 64 guard from Hargrave Military Academy in Chatham, Virginia who signed to play basketball for North Carolina. He says he was considering Florida, Georgetown, Wake Forest, and Duke in addition to Carolina, but he ultimately decided he wanted to stay close to home. So how did he choose between Carolina and Duke? A recurring error by the Blue Devils certainly helped sway his decision. The thing about Duke was, every time they sent me a letter, they wouldnt spell my name right, Hairston told the Greensboro News & Record. They would have T.J. Harrison or something like that. And Im like, OK. How can I go here? You cant even spell my name right. Its only two letters and HAIR and STON. Im trying to figure out how thats so hard. Yeesh, thats a pretty bad mistake. I understand that Duke probably is following hundreds of recruits and sending out a thousand letters, but you have to pay closer attention to details. If theres any school that can afford to make a mistake in recruiting, it may be Duke which can practically pick the players they want, but thats still pretty embarrassing. The good news is Hairston at least took matters into his own hands compared to Kendrys Morales who waited five years before correcting people.

New coach Billy Kennedy calls Texas A&M 'destination job' - by Eurobasket News
Billy Kennedy donned a maroon jacket on Monday, and officially became Texas A&M's basketball coach.

He succeeds Mark Turgeon, who resigned a week ago to take over at Maryland following Gary Williams' abrupt retirement.

'This is a destination job for me,' said Kennedy, who is from Louisiana but spent the past five seasons at Murray State.

About 150 fans were at Reed Arena's basketball complex for Kennedy's introduction. Texas A&M athletic director Bill Byrne says he was seeking someone 'who understands our culture here at Texas A&M.'

'When you start looking around, this man fits the bill,' Byrne said.

Most of the players whom Kennedy inherited attended the news conference, despite school not being in session, and afterward spoke of their support for him.

So did touted 2011 signees Jamal Branch and Jordan Green, who also came out to support the new coach.

The 47-year-old Kennedy compiled a 107-53 record at Murray State. He led the Racers to the round of 32 of the NCAA tournament in 2010, where they lost by two points to eventual national runner-up Butler.

The Aggies have played in six consecutive NCAA tournaments four under Turgeon and two under current Texas Tech coach Billy Gillispie. Kennedy thanked Turgeon for leaving him a program that's on solid ground.

'It's very rare as a coach that you take over a college program that's in good shape,' Kennedy said.

The Aggies return their top two scorers, guard Khris Middleton and forward David Loubeau, and seven of their top 10 players from a squad that lost its opening round game of the NCAA tournament to Florida State.

'I really like his offensive style. It's very fast paced,' Loubeau said of Kennedy. 'I think it's going to be a great year.'

Loubeau said the players researched Kennedy's background when his name emerged as a candidate. Kennedy said he's in the early stages of assembling a staff and offered no specifics on that front.

His contract is reportedly close to $1 million annually over five years, after recently receiving a pay bump to $225,000 at Murray State. He has also served as a head coach at Southeastern Louisiana and Centenary.

'We're going to build this team on defense,' said Kennedy, who added he learned defense the 'old school Hank Iba' way.

'Pressure and man-to-man and trying to speed things up,' Kennedy said. 'If your personnel allows that and I think we have personnel allowing that.'

Kennedy, who's from the New Orleans area, said A&M fans won't have to worry about him trying to leave College Station should he continue the program's winning ways.

'I believe in this place,' he said. 'And I'm very thankful to be here.'

Gillispie bolted A&M for Kentucky in 2007 and Turgeon split for Maryland four years later each to schools considered basketball schools.

'This is a dream for me,' said Kennedy. 'There is no Maryland, Kansas or Carolina or wherever.'

Kennedy served as an A&M assistant in 1990-91 under Kermit Davis, but was not linked to the NCAA rules violations that cost Davis his job. He's also served as an assistant at New Orleans, Wyoming, Northwestern State and Tulane.

'My goal here is to win national championships,' Kennedy said to the fans.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Illinois AD Guenther retiring after 19 years - by Eurobasket News
University of Illinois Athletic Director Ron Guenther said Monday he will retire this summer, almost two decades after he was hired to stabilize an ethically and financially troubled sports program.

The move creates potential uncertainty for football coach Ron Zook and men's basketball coach Bruce Weber, both of whom have weathered storms in recent years at least in part because, as they have said, Guenther continued to support them.

The 65-year-old athletic director told reporters Monday that he turned down a two-year contract extension. He said if he stayed his eventual successor would be chosen well after interim Chancellor Bob Easter - a longtime university administrator who plans to retire in July - stepped down, and likely by someone who lacks Easter's understanding of University of Illinois sports and its history.

'I was concerned that the (athletics) department would not be able to participate in the succession, that this might be handled with a search firm and somebody without institutional history might be making the decision,' Guenther said. 'My gut said this was the time to move on.'

Easter, who as chancellor is in charge of the Urbana-Champaign campus, will oversee the search process.

Guenther said the university has potential replacements on campus but declined to name them. He said a replacement could be named before he steps down.

Guenther has been athletic director at Illinois 19 years and is the longest-serving Big Ten AD. He took the job in 1992, replacing John Mackovic two years after Illinois narrowly escaped the so-called death penalty from the NCAA. In six years the school's football program had been placed on probation twice and basketball program once, and that after decades of on-again, off-again problems with the NCAA.

On Monday, Guenther said he considered leading Illinois' athletics back from that trouble and changing its culture his biggest accomplishment.

'I felt like that had to be addressed up front,' he said. 'That had to be one of the deepest pillars we had to drive into the ground.'

During his tenure the department has also gained financial strength. The athletics department was running a financial deficit when he took the job but says it has operated in the black for 17 of his 19 years on the job.

But some Illini fans have criticized Guenther for placing too much emphasis on the ability of coaches to run clean programs, remaining loyal even after many boosters would have liked to see them fired.

Guenther, an Illinois graduate, was both a college player and coach, something those who work for him often say give shim an understanding of their jobs. Guenther was MVP of the 1966 team as an offensive lineman and was an assistant coach at Boston College and North Central College.

Guenther hired Zook after the football coach's well-publicized firing at Florida and hired Weber, and both have survived heavy criticism over the past couple of years with AD's protection.

Zook had two straight losing seasons after a 2007 trip to the Rose Bowl before his team bounced back to 7-6 last fall, a record that was good enough to get Zook a $250,000 raise.

'He's as good a boss as I've ever had, and I don't say that lightly,' Zook said Monday. 'He is the ultimate coach's AD.'

Weber took his 2005 team to the NCAA championship game but has missed the NCAA tournament twice in the past four seasons.

'You always worry about who your boss is and who hired you,' Weber said, adding that he and Zook had hoped Guenther would accept the extension. 'It's a concern, there's no doubt.'

Guenther said he'd spoken to both Weber and Zook Monday about his decision, and said both seemed a little surprised by the timing, something he tried to reassure them about.

'As I pointed out to them, I said everything is in a solid position, let's take a deep breath. We're in better shape than you're thinking.'

The nature of fan criticism of coaches and athletic directors has drastically changed in his almost two decades on the job, Guenther said.

'I tell you what's more difficult is the new media and the amount of pressure that coaches and athletes feel today, with the instant access through Web sites and blog sites,' he said.

Guenther has also been known at the university for ability to raise money for building projects, including a $121 million renovation of Memorial Stadium in 2008. Illinois also hopes to start work on another expensive project in 2013, modernizing the 48-year-old Assembly Hall. Guenther said he the option to help with that project in an as-yet undetermined role.

Courtesy of www.daily-journal.com

Obama honors Connecticut Huskies for winning 2011 NCAA title - by Eurobasket News
President Barack Obama is proclaiming the Connecticut Huskies as the best college basketball team in the land.

Obama honored the University of Connecticut men's basketball team Monday for winning the 2011 NCAA national championship title. Connecticut defeated Butler University to capture the national title last month.

Obama congratulated the team and coach, but called the day bittersweet since it reminded him once again that his 'bracket was a bust,' a reference to his predictions for the tournament. Obama said he did not pick Connecticut to win at all, saying it was a big mistake.

Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun made a few remarks and said the team was a lot like Obama, the underdog. He said, 'But you know what? Yes we can,' stealing Obama's campaign slogan as the president grinned.

Courtesy of www.newser.com

Coach Mike Krzyzewski made $4.7M in 2009-10 - by Eurobasket News
Mike Krzyzewski is once again Duke's highest-paid employee.

The Associated Press on Monday obtained the university's most recent IRS documents for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2010.

Krzyzewski's total compensation for that year was listed as nearly $4.7 million. That includes a base salary of $2 million, more than $2.2 million in bonuses and incentives and $420,000 in retirement and other deferred compensation.

The Hall of Fame coach annually ranks as the highest-paid employee at Duke. The private school has a longstanding policy of not discussing contracts or salaries.

The Blue Devils appear to be getting their money's worth: During that fiscal year, Krzyzewski won his second straight Atlantic Coast Conference tournament title, followed that up with his fourth NCAA tournament championship and spent much of the 2010-11 season ranked No. 1.

Krzyzewski is only the second Division I men's coach with 900 career wins, and enters the 2011-12 season two victories shy of tying his mentor Bob Knight for the record among top-tier men's coaches.

According to past IRS Form 990 filings, Krzyzewski made nearly $4.2 million in 2008-09 and roughly $3.6 million the year before that.

Duke's IRS Form 990 also shows football coach David Cutcliffe made $1.7 million. That included a base salary of nearly $1.4 million and $300,000 in incentives.

Athletic director Kevin White's total compenation was listed at $908,000, including a base salary of more than $775,000.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

'MoMo' Jones leaving Arizona to go home - by Eurobasket News
Arizona point guard Jones 'MoMo' Lamont (6'0''-G) has decided to transfer, though he's not sure where.

A native of Harlem, N.Y., Jones said he decided to pursue his goals at a school closer to his home so he could be near his family, particularly his grandmother.

The sophomore was up and down in his first season as Arizonas starting point guard, occasionally making poor decisions but also hitting some big shots. He averaged 9.7 points and 2.4 assists while starting 38 games.

Arizona had already lost Pac-10 player of the year Derrick Williams, who declared for the NBA draft, but coach Sean Miller had a strong recruiting class that includes freshmen guards Josiah Turner and Nick Johnson.

Courtesy of Yahoo

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

OMAN

Champville beat Ahli for second straight win in UAE - by Eurobasket News
Champville - Ahli 113:94

Champville recorded the second straight win at the Arab Club Championship. They breezed past Omani Ahli in Group B. Garnett Thompson (207-F/C-80, college: Providence) stepped up with 30 points and 8 boards to pace the Lebanese powerhouse.
Champville had to overcome a resistant start from the Omani team early in the game. The Lebanese team posted a 28:20 lead after ten minutes. Champville limited their opponents to 10 points in the second term and stretched the margin to as many as 27 points at halftime 57:30. Champville dominated after the big break easily opening a 30+ advantage and cruised to the win at the end. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) provided 29 points, while Jasmon Youngblood (195-G-84, college: Kent St.) contributed 12 points in the victory. Scott Thompson (213-F/C) responded with 30 points for Ahli. Champville will take on ASU of Jordan tomorrow. Ahli will next take on Karkh.

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POLAND

DBE Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

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

1. Scott, SKK Kotwica	25.4
2. Hodge, Zastal	17.0
3. Frazier, AZS K.	16.7
4. Hinson, Polonia Az.	16.3
5. Reese, AZS Koszal.	16.0
6. Thomas, PGE Turow	14.7
7. Bennerman, Energa	14.5
8. Dylewicz, Trefl So.	14.4
9. NaNa, Polonia Azb.	14.4
10. Ewing, Asseco P.	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Harris, SKK K.	11.4
2. Truscott, Siarka	9.9
3. Burgess, Zastal	9.4
4. NaNa, Polonia Azb.	8.3
5. Easley, Polonia Az.	7.0
6. Wysocki, PGE Turow	6.8
7. Miller, Anwil	6.6
8. Ceranic, Trefl S.	6.5
9. Archibeque, Polph.	6.2
10. Dylewicz, Trefl S.	6.2

Assists Per Game

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

1. Milicic, AZS K.	6.6
2. Blassingame, Energ.	6.2
3. Thomas, PGE Turow	5.7
4. Hodge, Zastal	5.1
5. Skibniewski, Polph.	4.8
6. Hawkins, PBG B.	4.0
7. Vaughn, Polpharma	3.5
8. Szubarga, Asseco	3.5
9. Ewing, Asseco P.	3.2
10. Harrington, Trefl	3.0

Steals Per Game

Darnell HINSON
  Polonia Azbud
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Hinson, Polonia Az.	2.7
2. Blassingame, Energ.	2.6
3. Hodge, Zastal	2.5
4. Pringle, Siarka	2.4
5. Skibniewski, Polph.	2.4
6. Milicic, AZS K.	2.3
7. Szubarga, Asseco	2.2
8. Thomas, PGE Turow	2.2
9. Hawkins, PBG B.	2.1
10. Reese, AZS Kosza.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Harris, SKK K.	2.0
2. Burgess, Zastal	1.3
3. Easley, Polonia Az.	1.3
4. Hicks, Anwil	1.3
5. Lapeta, Asseco P.	1.2
6. Davis, Energa C.	1.0
7. Mirkovic, Polpharma	0.8
8. Miller, Anwil	0.8
9. Palmer, Polonia Az.	0.7
10. Metelski, Polphar.	0.7

PLK Round 5 of Finals. PGE Turow bring victory from Gdynia - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

Asseco Prokom - PGE Turow 79-84 OT

PGE Turow earned the third win in the title series. They upset Asseco Prokom in overtime drama in Gdynia. The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 23-16 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 20-15. 28 personal fouls committed by Asseco Prokom helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Torey Thomas (180-G-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Holy Cross) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists for the winners and his fellow American import guard David Jackson (193-86, college: W.Illinois) chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds. American swingman Qyntel Woods (203-81, college: N.Mississippi JC) responded with 18 points and 9 rebounds and international center Adam Hrycaniuk (208-84, college: Cincinnati) produced a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 rebounds. Five PGE Turow and four Asseco Prokom players scored in double figures. Asseco Prokom's coach Tomas Pacesas rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Asseco Prokom: Q.Woods 18+9reb+1ast, D.Ewing 15+3ast, A.Hrycaniuk 13+12reb+1ast, K.Szubarga 10+2reb+5ast, R.Burrell 7+11reb+1ast, R.Varda 6+4reb+1ast
PGE Turow: D.Jackson 18+5reb+1ast, T.Thomas 17+5reb+10ast, K.Wysocki 11+6reb+3ast, M.Gabinski 11+5reb, R.Tomaszek 11+8reb+2ast, D.Kickert 10+7reb

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

PORTUGAL

Season Scout - Illiabum - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
After finishing 5th last season, we may have expected a stronger Illiabum Clube this season. But Alexandre Pires wasnt able to take his teams to another good season. Worst than that, they finished relegated to Proliga, where theyll have to start rebuilding a new project, starting next September.

The Season

Since the first games, we may asked which was the true Illiabum Clube. They lost the first three games, facing teams they must have won (Sampaense, Penafiel and Ginasio), and in the next two games, they collect victories facing potentially stronger teams (Ovarense and Academica). During the season, Illiabum Clube has won matches against Benfica and Vit. Guimaraes, but lost twice with Lusitania and that was fatal. Things were though for Illiabum Clube, with Daniel Felix and Miguel Barroca's injuries during the season, also with some changes in their North-Americans trio. But we still believe they had the coach, the players and the team to secure their place in LPB. It just wasnt enough for win decisive games.

The Player

Emanuel Willis (205-F/C-84, college: Houston Baptist). He arrived in January and his presence was noted in his first game, a home win against Benfica. With a fantastic physical presence, Willis gave some hope to a team who was desperately in need of a change. Ricondo Crutchfield (200-F/G-78, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Philadelphia) and Evan Harris (206-F/C-86, agency: Basket Law/NM Services, college: Harvard) were also important at times, but the main problem with all Illiabum Clube players was their inconsistency, they all were able to do big games, followed by awful performances.

The prospect

Evan Harris. In his second European season, he havent confirmed all the qualities he had shown in Germany, last season. But he has height and he still was the teams best scorer and rebounder. So, more opportunities shall come to a player who still can have an evolution playing in leagues like LPB.

Check for more in www.porbasket.blogspot.com

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PUERTO RICO

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

1. Bayamon		11-5
2. Quebradillas		11-6
3. Guaynabo		11-7
4. Santurce		9-7
5. San German		9-8
6. Arecibo		8-9
7. Humacao		8-9
8. Coamo		8-11
9. Isabela		6-12
10. Mayaguez		5-12

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game

Angel Daniel VASSALLO
  Guaynabo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 24.4

1. Vassallo, Guaynabo	24.4
2. Ramos, Quebradillas	24.2
3. Dalmau, Bayamon	21.5
4. Clemente, Humacao	19.6
5. Villegas, Coamo	19.6
6. Johnson, Humacao	19.0
7. Romero, Mayaguez	18.6
8. Ayuso, Arecibo	18.2
9. Clinch, Isabela	18.0
10. Harris, San German	17.4

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Narvaez, Coamo	12.5
2. Randolph, Isabela	12.1
3. Pruitt, Guaynabo	11.9
4. Ramos, Quebradillas	11.3
5. Harris, San German	10.9
6. Lloreda, San G.	10.8
7. Romero, Mayaguez	9.7
8. Shannon, Bayamon	9.1
9. Sweetney, Santurce	8.7
10. Robinson, Mayagu.	8.4

Assists Per Game

Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Dalmau, Bayamon	6.8
2. Brown, Quebradillas	5.9
3. Guzman, Guaynabo	5.1
4. Clemente, Humacao	4.9
5. Clinch, Isabela	4.6
6. Rivera, Mayaguez	4.2
7. Apodaca, Quebradil.	4.2
8. Vega, Coamo	4.1
9. Berdiel, Humacao	3.9
10. Copeland, San G.	3.8

Steals Per Game

Brandon ROBINSON
  Mayaguez
  (202-F-81)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Robinson, Mayaguez	1.9
2. Santiago, Santurce	1.8
3. Hinson, Isabela	1.8
4. Clinch, Isabela	1.6
5. Robinson, Humacao	1.5
6. Hodge, Santurce	1.5
7. Rivera, Mayaguez	1.5
8. Dalmau, Bayamon	1.4
9. Carmona, Mayaguez	1.4
10. Chaney, Santurce	1.4

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Lamizana, Mayaguez	3.0
2. Penn, Humacao	2.4
3. Santiago, Arecibo	2.2
4. Traylor, Bayamon	2.0
5. Romero, Mayaguez	1.9
6. Aubry, Arecibo	1.7
7. Sanchez, Santurce	1.7
8. Randolph, Isabela	1.6
9. Robinson, Mayaguez	1.4
10. Shannon, Bayamon	1.4

BSN Round 15: Mets beat Quebradillas in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket News
What a coincidence that all visitors won their games.

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Quebradillas. Third ranked Mets faced 3rd placed Quebradillas. Guests from Guaynabo (11-7) defeated host Quebradillas (11-6) 94-87. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Quebradillas won third quarter 19-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was international swingman Angel Daniel Vassallo (198-86, college: Virginia Tech) who scored 35 points (!!!), 6 rebounds and 4 assists. American center Shaun Pruitt (208-85, college: Illinois, agency: Edge Sports) chipped in 16 points and 15 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international guard Rick Apodaca (192-80, college: Hofstra, agency: Paris Global Sports) who recorded 26 points and 4 assists. Mets maintains third place with 11-7 record having just -2 point less than leader Bayamon. Quebradillas lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the second position with six games lost. Mets are looking forward to face league's leader Vaqueros in Bayamon in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Quebradillas will play at home against Capitanes in Arecibo and are hoping to win this game.
Leader Vaqueros delivered the eleventh victory. This time they crushed 9th ranked Gallitos (6-12) 101-76 in Isabela. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for forward Rick Rickert (211-83, college: Minnesota, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 12 rebounds. Terrence Shannon contributed with 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Forward Shavlik Randolph (208-83, college: Duke) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 15 rebounds for Gallitos. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Vaqueros maintains first place with 11-5 record. Gallitos at the other side keep the ninth position with 12 games lost. Vaqueros will play against Mets (#3) in Guaynabo in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Gallitos will play on the road against Caciques (#7) in Humacao and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Coamo was also quite interesting. Third ranked Quebradillas (11-6) played at the court of 8th ranked Maratonistas (8-11). Quebradillas managed to secure a 4-point victory 91-87 on Monday. It was a great evening for Peter John Ramos who led his team to a victory scoring 33 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds. The best for the losing side was Manuel Antonio Narvaez with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds. Quebradillas moved-up to second place. Loser Maratonistas keep the eighth position with 11 games lost. Quebradillas will meet at home Capitanes (#6) in the next round. Maratonistas will have a break next round.

In the last two games of round 15 San German defeated Mayaguez in a road game 97-86. Arecibo was beaten by Humacao at home 82-88.
The best stats of 15th round was 30 points and 13 rebounds by Mike Harris of San German.

Mayaguez - San German 86-97

There was no surprise in Mayaguez where 10th ranked Indios (5-12) were defeated by fifth ranked Atleticos (9-8) 97-86 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Atleticos. Indios managed to win fourth quarter 32-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great evening for forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 13 rebounds. Panamanian power forward Jaime Lloreda (201-80, college: LSU) helped adding 16 points and 12 rebounds. The best for the losing side was naturalized American forward Ramon Clemente (200-85, college: Wichita St., agency: Global Sports Plaza) with 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and point guard Luis Steven Ramirez (181-87) scored 15 points. Four Atleticos and five Indios players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Atleticos maintains fifth place with 9-8 record. Loser Indios stay at the bottom position with 12 games lost. Atleticos will meet at home Caciques (#7) in the next round. Indios will play against Cangrejeros in Santurce and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Mayaguez: R.Clemente 18+9reb+4ast, L.Steven Ramirez 15+4reb+2ast, B.Robinson 10+8reb, G.Jimenez 10+2reb+3ast, P.Graham 10+1reb, A.Carmona 4+2reb
San German: M.Harris 30+13reb+3ast, C.Strong 22+5reb+1ast, J.Lloreda 16+12reb+1ast, J.Pellot-Rosa 15+4reb+2ast, J.Nieves 4+2reb, R.Abraham 4+1reb+4ast

Coamo - Quebradillas 87-91

The game in Coamo was also quite interesting. Third ranked Quebradillas (11-6) played at the court of 8th ranked Maratonistas (8-11). Quebradillas managed to secure a 4-point victory 91-87 on Monday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Maratonistas won fourth quarter 28-24. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Quebradillas looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. It was a great evening for international center Peter John Ramos (222-85) who led his team to a victory scoring 33 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds. The former international swingman Joel Jones (196-81, college: Sacramento St.) helped adding 15 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was the former international center Manuel Antonio Narvaez (211-81, college: S.Nazarene, agency: Paris Global Sports) with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds and guard Johwen Villegas (193-85, college: FIU) scored 20 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Quebradillas moved-up to second place. Loser Maratonistas keep the eighth position with 11 games lost. Quebradillas will meet at home Capitanes (#6) in the next round. Maratonistas will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Coamo: M.Antonio Narvaez 22+13reb+2ast, J.Villegas 20+4reb+2ast, M.Freije 19+3reb+1ast, M.Landry 12+5reb+3ast, A.Ortiz 10+3reb, C.Vega 4+6reb+9ast
Quebradillas: P.John Ramos 33+9reb+2ast, J.Jones 15+6reb+4ast, B.C.J. 14+2reb+2ast, W.Mark 11+8reb+2ast, R.Apodaca 6+3reb+10ast, S.Rosas 6+2reb+1ast

Quebradillas - Guaynabo 87-94

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Quebradillas. Third ranked Mets faced 3rd placed Quebradillas. Guests from Guaynabo (11-7) defeated host Quebradillas (11-6) 94-87. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Quebradillas won third quarter 19-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was international swingman Angel Daniel Vassallo (198-86, college: Virginia Tech) who scored 35 points (!!!), 6 rebounds and 4 assists. American center Shaun Pruitt (208-85, college: Illinois, agency: Edge Sports) chipped in a double-double by scoring 16 points and 15 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international guard Rick Apodaca (192-80, college: Hofstra, agency: Paris Global Sports) who recorded 26 points and 4 assists and international center Peter John Ramos (222-85) added 21 points and 10 rebounds respectively. Five Mets and four Quebradillas players scored in double figures. Mets maintains third place with 11-7 record having just -2 point less than leader Bayamon. Quebradillas lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the second position with six games lost. Mets are looking forward to face league's leader Vaqueros in Bayamon in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Quebradillas will play at home against Capitanes in Arecibo and are hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Quebradillas: R.Apodaca 26+4reb+4ast, P.John Ramos 21+10reb+3ast, A.Alamo 18+11reb+2ast, S.Rosas 14+6reb+6ast, A.Caballero 4+1reb+2ast, A.Colon 4+6reb
Guaynabo: A.Daniel Vassallo 35+6reb+4ast, S.Pruitt 16+15reb+2ast, A.Luis Figueroa 16+7reb+2ast, S.Villegas 14+1reb+3ast, C.Escalera 11+2reb+3ast, T.Leather 2+1reb+1ast

Arecibo - Humacao 82-88

There was a small surprise in Arecibo where eighth ranked Caciques (8-9) defeated 6th ranked Capitanes (8-9) 88-82 on Saturday. Capitanes were trailing by 6 points at halftime but managed to get 8-point lead after three quarters before a 32-18 charge of Caciques, which allowed them to win the game. They made 21-of-25 free shots (84.0 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for American power forward Ivan Johnson (203-84, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 14 rebounds. point guard Denis Clemente (185-86, college: Kansas St., agency: KMG Sports Management) helped adding 20 points. The best for the losing side was international guard Larry Ayuso (190-77, college: USC, agency: Global Sports Plaza) with 28 points and 5 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) and American-Panamanian guard Danilo Pinnock (196-83, college: George Washington, agency: SportsTalent) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds. Capitanes' coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Caciques moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Arecibo. Caciques will meet higher ranked Atleticos (#5) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Capitanes will play against the league's second-placed Quebradillas and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Arecibo: L.Ayuso 28+5reb+1ast, D.Pinnock 19+10reb+3ast, D.Santiago 10+2reb+2ast, D.Cortes 9+4reb+2ast, D.Copeland 7+3reb+3ast, A.Latimer 6+9reb+2ast
Humacao: I.Johnson 30+14reb+3ast, D.Clemente 20+2reb+3ast, M.Ali Berdiel 13+6reb, K.Penn 8+10reb, J.Life 7+1reb+4ast, J.Maye 6+5reb+1ast

Isabela - Bayamon 76-101

Leader Vaqueros delivered the eleventh victory. This time they crushed 9th ranked Gallitos (6-12) 101-76 in Isabela. The game was mostly controlled by Vaqueros. Gallitos was better in second period 23-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 20-of-24 charity shots (83.3 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for Vaqueros especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. Gallitos were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for forward Rick Rickert (211-83, college: Minnesota, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 12 rebounds. Forward Terrence Shannon (203-79, college: Elgin CC, agency: Paris Global Sports) contributed with 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Forward Shavlik Randolph (208-83, college: Duke) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 15 rebounds and guard Lewis Clinch (191-87, college: Georgia Tech) added 20 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Gallitos. Five Vaqueros and four Gallitos players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Vaqueros maintains first place with 11-5 record. Gallitos at the other side keep the ninth position with 12 games lost. Vaqueros will play against Mets (#3) in Guaynabo in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Gallitos will play on the road against Caciques (#7) in Humacao and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Isabela: L.Clinch 20+5reb+3ast, S.Randolph 18+15reb+2ast, D.Hinson 16+2reb+2ast, J.Verdejo 12+1reb+2ast, F.Valencia 7+4reb+1ast, R.Cotto 3+2reb
Bayamon: R.Rickert 25+12reb+1ast, T.Shannon 20+6reb+4ast, C.Antrone Lee 14+3reb+3ast, J.Mojica 13+4reb+3ast, C.Dalmau 12+5reb+9ast, R.Jose Hatton 10+5reb+2ast

CJ Bruton returns to Puerto Rico, Quebradillas - by Eurobasket News
CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) is back to Puerto Rico after one year. The veteran guard signed a deal with Quebradillas Pirates and joined his countrymate Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.), who also arrived this week. Bruton heads to Quebradillas from the New Zealand Breakers, where he spent 2010/11 season. He helped them win the NBL title averaging 11 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists. It was the fourth NBL title for Bruton in his career.
CJ Bruton already was a member of Quebradillas and it was last season. He helped them reach BSN Semifinals. In 24 games Bruton had 14 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 6.4 apg. He ended as the league's No.1 in assists. Bruton already played his first BSN game of the season helping Quebradillas beat Coamo 91-87 on the road. He had 14 points with just one miss for 29 minutes on the court.

Mike Harris gets MVP of the Week award for Puerto Rican BSN - by Eurobasket News
Mike Harris (198-F-83) had an amazing evening in the last week for San German and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for week 15.
The 27-year old forward had a double-double of 30 points and thirteen rebounds, while his team beat Mayaguez (#10, 5-12) 97-86. San German maintains the 5th position in Puerto Rican BSN. San German is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 9-8 record. In the team's last game Harris had a remarkable 78.6% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at San German, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Rice University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Harris is in league's top in rebounds (5th best: 10.9rpg) and averages solid 1.2bpg and 59.2% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last week's games was 26-year old American power forward Ivan Johnson (203-F/C-84) of Humacao. Johnson impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 30 points and 14 rebounds. It was enough for Humacao to edge slightly higher-ranked Arecibo (8-9) by 6 points 88-82. This victory allowed Humacao to move up to 7th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 8-9 record. Johnson is one of the most experienced players at Humacao and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 19.0ppg (#6). He also registered 7.0 boards per game.

The third best performed player last week was former international center Manuel Antonio Narvaez (211-C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) of Coamo (#8). Narvaez scored 22 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Narvaez's great performance Coamo lost 87-91 to the higher-ranked Quebradillas (#2, 11-6). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Coamo ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 11 games, recording just eight victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Narvaez could help Coamo to bring them higher in the standings. Narvaez has a great season in Puerto Rico. After 10 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 12.5rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Rick Rickert (211-F-83) of Bayamon - 25 points and 12 rebounds
5. Angel Daniel Vassallo (198-G/F-86) of Guaynabo - 35 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Peter John Ramos (222-C-85) of Quebradillas - 33 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Jaime Lloreda (201-F/C-80) of San German - 16 points and 12 rebounds
8. Ramon Clemente (200-F-85) of Mayaguez - 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Shaun Pruitt (208-C-85) of Guaynabo - 16 points, 15 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Terrence Shannon (203-F-79) of Bayamon - 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists

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

Mark Worthington moves from Guaynabo to Quebradillas - by Eurobasket News
Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.) is a new member of Quebradillas. The Australian forward signed a deal for rest of the season. Wortho is coming from Guaynabo, where he spent last month and a half. He appeared 12 times in BSN averaging 10.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.7 assists.
Mark Worthington spent 2010/11 season with the Gold Coast Blaze. He was one of their best players with 16.8 ppg, 7 rpg and 1.7 apg. Wortho has experience from Europe as he played for Brose Baskets Bamberg year and a half ago. In the past, he was a member of the Melbourne Tigers, Melbourne South Dragons and Sydney Kings.
Mark Worthington already made his debut with Quebradillas. He had 11 points and 8 rebounds in 91-87 win against Coamo.

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RUSSIA

Massey's 24 points and 7 rebounds give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old forward Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82) put on an amazing game in the last round for Lokomotiv Kuban and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 26.
He had the game-high 24 points adding seven rebounds and three assists for Lokomotiv in his team's victory, helping them to beat Khimky (#4, 16-9) 81-75. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Lokomotiv is placed at 3rd position in Russian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Lokomotiv will need more victories to improve their 17-9 record. In the team's last game Massey had a remarkable 62.5% from 2-point range. He turned to be Lokomotiv's top player in his first season with the team. Kansas State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Massey is in league's top in rebounds (7th best: 6.3rpg).

Second best performed player last round was Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86, agency: RIZO) of Spartak St.Petersburg. He is former international guard in his first season at Spartak SP. In the last game Ponkrashov recorded impressive 24 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists. Bad luck as Spartak SP lost that game 73-84 to the lower-ranked N.Novgorod (#8, 9-17). This loss caused Spartak SP to drop to 5th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 16-10 record is not bad and everything may still change. Ponkrashov is a newcomer at Spartak SP and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Egor Vyaltsev (192-G-85) of Triumph Lyubertsy (#10). Vyaltsev showcased his all-around game by recording 19 points, six rebounds and ten assists (!!!) in the last round. Despite Vyaltsev's great performance Triumph lost 87-94 to the higher-ranked Krasnie Krilya (#7, 10-16). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Triumph can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 4-21 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Vyaltsev he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Vyaltsev has individually a great season in Russia. After 24 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 14.1ppg (9th best) and assists with 5.5apg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Lonny Baxter (204-C-79) of Enisey - 24 points and 10 rebounds
5. Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83) of Khimky - 22 points and 5 rebounds
6. Ernest Bremer (195-G-80) of Krasnie Krilya - 19 points, 2 rebounds and 7 assists
7. Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) of Khimky - 17 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists
8. Nikola Dragovic (206-F-87) of Spartak SP - 17 points and 9 rebounds
9. Andrei Komarovskiy (196-G-85) of Enisey - 19 points and 6 assists
10. Valery Likhodey (204-F-86) of Triumph - 24 points and 6 rebounds

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

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SERBIA

Nenad Krstic keen on staying with Celtics - by Eurobasket News
Februarys trade disrupted everyone involved - the Celtics for making such a big late-season change, Kendrick Perkins for tearing him away from the team he loved, and Jeff Green for turning him from a featured starting player into Paul Pierce's backup.

Nenad Krstic (7'0''-C-83), like Green, had to adjust to coming off the bench.

But unlike Green, the Serbian center faded into the back of coach Doc Rivers priorities. With the exception of Game 5 of the conference semifinals, when he played a larger role because of Jermaine ONeals back spasms, Krstic was relegated to a few minutes in the first half of each playoff game, if he played at all.

Rivers, known to lose faith in newcomers and youngsters who dont produce right away, had little use for Krstic by the end.

But Krstic, an impending unrestricted free agent, is willing to give the Celtics another try. Indeed, he wants to show all concerned what he can do when not pressed into the rush job that was his attempt to fit in during the last three months a transition marred when Krstic, at different times, bruised both of his knees.

I want to come back here, he said. Obviously I want to see what my options are, but I definitely like the organization and I like the team. If you ask me, yes, but I dont know if they want me.

Rivers, who agreed to a five-year contract extension Friday, may be a tough read in that respect.

But Danny Ainge, architect of that controversial trade, wants to see this project work, too.

Were interested in bringing him back, the Celtics general manager said. He played great when he first got here, and then he hit a little slump. He wasnt playing well for a while, and then he got hurt. He had the bruised knee. We were worried it was something worse. It seemed that anyone playing center for us got hurt.

He never got his starting job back after he got hurt, and then he got hurt again on the other knee. So he had two bruised knees. He was finally healthy by the time the Miami series started, but by then Jermaine was playing really well defensively for us, and Doc was trying to get (Glen Davis) confidence back, and was trying to get something out of Baby that we had the first half of the season. In the last game Krstic was back, ready and contributing.

Not coincidentally, Krstic hit a pair of midrange jumpers a welcome change from the post offense he was asked to handle shortly after joining the team. Krstic has been known as a so-called pick-and-pop center, which immediately made him a poor fit for Rivers sets.

But Krstic believes he would benefit greatly from a full training camp.

Its totally different when you have a training camp with the team, he said. Just getting used to the plays and teammates, just everything, is totally different. When youre traded like I was, its tough, especially coming into this team that wants to win right now. That was really tough, but well see.

It became especially difficult once Krstic, sent to the bench, experienced a major drop in minutes. Like Green, he was expected to provide instant energy in a short period of time.

For me it was up and down, he said. I had 30-plus minutes from when I first got here, and then it changed a little bit. I came from playing 35 minutes to not playing much or at all. Thats tough, too.

You come into a game and you dont know if you are going to play or not. But I understand my role right now, especially in the playoffs. Its all about winning. Thats the coachs decision, and I really respect that.

Courtesy of www.bostonherald.com

Ivkovic, Teodosic, Keselj and Erceg help Olympiakos defend Greek Cup trophy - by Eurobasket News
Four Serbians in Olympiakos had a reason for joy this weekend. Coach Dusan Ivkovic (agency: Beo Basket ) and players Milos Teodosic (195-G-87), Marko Keselj (205-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) and Zoran Erceg (210-C/F-85) helped the team beat the reigning Euroleague champion Panathinaikos 74-68 in the National Cup Finals defending the title from the last season. It means Zeljko Obradovic and Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) stay without the trophy for the second straight time. To their credit, PAO players were tired after exhausting Euroleague Final Four, which was held from May 6-8.

Here is the full game report of the Greek Cup Final (May 15).

-by Kostas Papadopoulos
Olympiacos was the winner of the Greek Cup for a second consecutive year, after its win tonight 74-68 against Panathinaikos, at Helliniko Hall.
Olympiakos took the lead at the beginning of the game (11-6), taking advantage of its inside-the-paint game, scoring all its points from there (Bourousis the very first seven of them). The difference extended at 8 (14-6) with a 3p shot from Papanikolaou 5:14 before the end of the first period. Panathinaikos reacted with a 5-0 serie but the Reds never lost the lead. The period ended at 17-22 for Olympiakos, with Halperin having given precious solutions in offence (4p) and the Greens seemed to be very nervous in their game (with Batiste in a good day), having though many fouls (10-5 respectively).
At the second period, Olympiakos entered as strongly it finished the first one. With Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) in a great mood (both in scoring and in giving assists) and Mavrokefalides helping, it kept the 8p lead (25-33) at its half. On the other side, Obradovic tested many different fives and shapes but none seemed good enough. And if it wasnt Batiste certainly the difference could have been in double digits. At that time a zone defense that Obradovic selected changed the game totally. Olympiacos made many mistakes, it could not find solutions in its offence, having lost its concentration and the Greens with their zone, many steals and good shots from Sato and Kaimakoglou leaded 37-35, a minute before the end. The first half ended at 39-37 for the Greens.
The third period started with an early 3p from Diamantidis for the 42-37 but instantly Olympiacos strengthened its defense, found solutions in its offense and with a 12-0 serie leaded 42-49, with six minutes remaining. The Greens though managed to return again and with their 8-1 serie came closer at a point, with 3 minutes remaining. However, at these three minutes Olympiacos found some solutions, mainly with Milos Teodosic and the period ended at 53-58 for the Reds.
Both teams entered the last period very nervously, something reflected also at the two technical fouls at the two coaches two minutes after its start. Panathinaikos, though, was better and with a 10-1 serie leaded 62-59, with two 3p shots from Diamantidis and Sato. The reds reacted again and leaded 63-62, 5:06 before the end and everything seemed that we would have a great end. A very lucky 3p. shot from Milos Teodosic made 64-66 for the Reds, Batiste responded with only one free throw and 78 seconds before the end Bourousis scored for the 65-68. Sato missed a 3p shot, Bourousis scored both his free throws, Nicholas missed another 3p shot, Mavrokefalides also scored both his free throws (65-72, 27 sec before the end) but nothing has finished since Fotsis scored his 3p shot (68-72, with 24 sec remaining). Milos Teodosic scored two free throws for the final 68-74.

Panathinaikos: Tepic 2, Maric, Perperoglou 5, Batiste 17, Fotsis 8, Sato 7, Nicholas, Tsartsaris 4, Diamantidis 17, Vougioukas, Kalathis 2, Kaimakoglou 6
Olympiakos: Papaloukas, Gordon 2, Spanoulis, Printezis, Bourousis 13, Keselj 4, Erceg 2, Mavrokefalides 16, Halperin 9, Glyniadakis 2, Papanikolaou 8, Milos Teodosic 18

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SLOVENIA

All top teams win in Round 13 - by Zeljko Zule
Helios-Slovan 91-74: Leading by four early in the final period, Helios went on a crucial 22-4 run. Benjamin Raymond scored 27 points, Marko Lekic added 18 points and Klemen Prepelic came off the bench for 15 points on shooting 4-of-5 behind the 3-point line. Slovan ouutrebouned Helios 32-22, but commited 24 turnovers. Jaka Blazic posted 22 points, Luka Rupnik 17 and Dalibor Djapa 12.
Maribor-Krka 75-93: Krka opened the second half with a 16-3 run to go ahead 60-43. Smiljan Pavic netted 21 points, Goran Ikonic 19, Jure Balazic came off the bench for 16 points and Zoran Dragic posted 12 points. Krka's bench players outscored Maribor's reserves 34-11. Maribor shot better from 3-point range (53 percent, 9-17) than from 2-point range (37 percent, 15-41). Ilija Zolotic collected 19 points and 13 rebounds, Jure Brolih scored 15 points and Elvis Kadic added 13.
Olimpija-Hopsi 85-62: Olimpija never trailed and led by as many as 17 points after the first quarter. Vlado Ilievski scored of his 15 points in the first half and Kenny Gregory, Goran Jagodnik and Giorgi Shermadini finished with 10 points each. Hopsi was led by Igor Mijajlovic and his 14 points, Denis Vrsaljko added 13 and Andrej Podvrsnik 10.
Elektra-Zlatorog 56-61: Despite erasing a 13-point second quarter deficit and even taking the 53-51 lead early in the final period, Elektra couldn't hold off local rival. Zlatorog responded with 8 straight points and its defense held Elektra scoreless for a 4:00 minute span. Vladimir Panic (194-F-82, agency: 011 Sports) scored 25 points, grabbed 13 rebounds and had 12 fouls drawn for Zlatorog who outscored the home team 49-34, picking up 16 offensive boards. Salih Nuhanovic led Elektra with 17 points and 12 rebounds and Milos Miljkovic had 13 points and 7 rebounds.

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SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U17

Argentina win U15 South American Championship - by Eurobasket News
Argentina triumphed at the U15 South American Championship. The tournament was held in Asuncion, Paraguay. Argentina held off their archrivals Brazil in the championship game. Jose Vidoza stepped up with 26 points to lead Argentina to a 77:70 victory. Lucas Vezaro answered with 18 points for Brazil. Argentina trailed by two points at halftime but managed to turn things around after the big break. They exploded with 48 points in the second half and raced to the victory at the end.
Uruguay clinched the third position. They overcame Venezuela in overtime for the spot at the podium. Camilo Invernizzi stepped up with 18 points for Uruguay.
Colombia earned the fifth spot as they edged Paraguay 85:83. Chile finished in the seventh place after they thumped Bolivia 92:16.

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SPAIN

Fernando San Emetrio named MVP of 2010/11 ACB season - by Eurobasket News
Fernando San Emeterio (198-G/F-84) is named MVP of the 2010/11 ACB season. The Spanish National Team member got 70 votes and was followed by Nik Caner-Medley (203-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Maryland) with 55 and Jaycee Carroll (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports) with 50 votes. Coaches, players, media and fans were included in the voting.
Fernando San Emeterio appeared 34 times in the league so far averaging 11.7 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists. He helped Caja Laboral end as No.4 with 23-11 record. They will meet Gran Canaria in the Quarterfinals.
Second ranked Nik Caner-Medley played 31 games for his Estudiantes this season. He registered 14.4 ppg and 7.6 rpg, but the Students failed to reach the Playoffs. They ended as No.12 with 16-18 score.
Jaycee Carroll averaged 19.6 points and 3 rebounds in 34 games with Gran Canaria. They finished as No.5 with 21-13 record.

MVP votes
1. Fernando San Emeterio 70
2. Nik Caner-Medley 55
3. Jaycee Carroll 50

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TURKEY

Efes Pilsen to meet Fenerbahce Ulker in the Semis - by Eurobasket News
Quarterfinals, Game 3: Karsiyaka - Efes Pilsen 78-85 (0-3)

Efes Pilsen was better than Karsiyaka once again winning the series with perfect 3-0. It means that Efes Pilsen advanced to TBL Semifinals, where they will take on Fenerbahce Ulker. It will be another best-of-five series and Fener will start with 1-0 lead.
Karsiyaka was trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 24-15 charge of Efes Pilsen, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was Croatian center Nikola Vujcic (211-78) who scored 12 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. The former international guard Kerem Tunceri (190-79) chipped in 14 points. Five Efes Pilsen players scored in double figures. Efes Pilsen's coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was guard David Holston (170-86, college: Chicago St.) who recorded 29 points and 5 assists and Serbian center Jovo Stanojevic (208-77, agency: Beo Basket) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively.

Top scorers:
Karsiyaka: D.Holston 29+4reb+5ast, J.Stanojevic 14+7reb, B.Batuk 11+3reb+1ast, S.Marshall 9+4reb+2ast, E.Bayav 5+2reb, O.Eldridge 4+2reb
Efes Pilsen: K.Tunceri 14+3reb+3ast, I.Rakocevic 13+2ast, S.Guler 12+4reb+1ast, N.Vujcic 12+7reb+4ast, M.Thornton 11+5reb+4ast, L.Roberts 10+7reb+1ast

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

Ali KARADENIZ
  Trabzons.
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 23

1. Karadeniz, Trabzon.	23.0
2. Kambala, Aliaga	20.2
3. Buckman, Antalya	19.6
4. Henderson, Antalya	19.1
5. Smith, Karsiyaka	18.8
6. Seibutis, Olin Edi.	18.8
7. Kemp, Besiktas	17.9
8. Randle, Aliaga	17.5
9. Scales, Mersin	17.2
10. Barbour, Erdemir	17.2

Rebounds Per Game

Nedim YUCEL
  Mersin
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 11.3

1. Yucel, Mersin	11.3
2. Thomas, Erdemir	10.2
3. Wesson, Turk T.	9.2
4. Mays, Oyak Renault	9.0
5. Buckman, Antalya	9.0
6. Ffriend, Bornova	8.7
7. Samardjiski, Olin	8.7
8. Smith, Bornova	7.9
9. Smith, Karsiyaka	7.8
10. Karadeniz, Trabzo.	7.6

Assists Per Game

Baris ERMIS
  Banvit
  (194-G-85)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Ermis, Banvit	6.4
2. Holston, Karsiyaka	6.0
3. Conroy, Oyak R.	5.9
4. Rasic, Trabzonspor	5.3
5. Chatman, Besiktas	5.1
6. Henderson, Antalya	4.7
7. Rowe, Tofas	4.6
8. Acik, Galatasaray	4.4
9. Ukic, Fener.Ulker	4.3
10. Akin, Olin Edirne	4.3

Steals Per Game

James MAYS
  Oyak Renault
  (206-F-86)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Mays, Oyak Renault	2.2
2. Grier, Mersin	2.2
3. Holston, Karsiyaka	2.2
4. Waller, Oyak Renau.	2.1
5. Gibson, Oyak R.	2.0
6. Smith, Karsiyaka	1.9
7. Prince, Antalya	1.9
8. Grundy, Mersin	1.7
9. Chatman, Besiktas	1.6
10. Rowe, Tofas	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Gregory STIEMSMA
  Turk T.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Stiemsma, Turk T.	1.8
2. Samardjiski, Olin	1.5
3. Johnson, Erdemir	1.3
4. Francis, Bornova	1.3
5. Ogilvy, Besiktas	1.1
6. Mays, Oyak Renault	1.0
7. Ruzic, Tofas	0.9
8. Aldemir, Karsiyaka	0.9
9. Davis, Banvit	0.9
10. Wesson, Turk T.	0.8

TBL Quarterfinals: Banvit takes 2-1 lead against Olin Edrine - by Eurobasket News
Game 3: Olin Edirne - Banvit 62-68 (1-2)

Banvit grabbed 62-68 road win against Olin Edrine for 2-1 lead in the series. The game was played last night. Two teams fight for the last spot in TBL Semifinals. Fourth game is scheduled for Thursday and Olin Edrine will be he host again.
The guests were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. It was a good game for American center Lance Williams (206-C-80, college: De Paul) who led his team to a victory with 23 points and 5 rebounds. The former international guard Baris Ermis (194-G-85) contributed with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 10 assists for the winners. Banvit's coach Orhun Ene allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Lithuanian guard Renaldas Seibutis (196-G-85) answered with 25 points (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) and the former international guard Can Akin (190-G-83, agency: 1x1 Sports) added 12 points and 8 assists in the effort for Olin Edirne.

Top scorers:
Olin Edirne: R.Seibutis 25+2ast, C.Akin 12+3reb+8ast, P.Samardjiski 9+8reb+1ast, S.Doliboa 6+10reb+1ast, E.Bibo 5+1reb, V.Ginevicius 3
Banvit: L.Williams 23+5reb, B.Ermis 10+2reb+10ast, V.Golubovic 10+7reb, M.Akpinar 7+1reb, K.Simmons 6+4reb+2ast, Y.Turna 5+3reb

Turkey D2 and import rule - by Mustafa Bozkurt
This year Turkish Division 2 had a great challenge and finally Genc Banvitliler finished the league as a champion. 6 Teams went down to D3. There ll be only one group with 20 teams for 2011-2012 season.Turkish Basketball Federation called up the teams for a meeting to talk about for the new season route. In this meeting 16 teams wanted 2 import to play at the same on the court. Now all the teams are waiting for decision of Turkish Federation. There are some rumors about the new rule but its not official yet so that we dont want tell about that. But %80 of the teams at d2 want to play with 2 import player but last decision belongs to the Federation management. Now all the teams wait for that decision to start building up new season roster.

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UBA

GIE Morrow Disciples Begin Title Defense - by Travis McAvene
This coming weekend the UBA play-offs begin with some intriguing match ups. The defending champions, Morrow Disciples open their title defense with the Cleveland Vipers from the eastern conference.
The leagues leading scorer and MVP, Jermaine Barnes (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Atlanta Christian) will go up against one of the leagues top guards in Demario Mattox (6'2''-G-87, college: Wingate). Barnes, Usbasket.com shooting guard of the year has a good supporting cast around him. Jermaine Dailey, a 68 power forward and 610 center Lorenzo Davis will be key players to watch during their title defense.
Demario Mattox of the Cleveland Vipers is one of the leagues up and coming players. His team includes a big front line with Reggie Smith (6'8''-C, college: Savannah St.) and Garrett Schmidt (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Urbana).
This first round game should be an exciting game to watch.

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UBL

CENTER RYAN RANDLE ADDED TO THE UBL Metroplex Lightning! - by Torrence Moody
THE UBL Metroplex Lightning our proud to have Ryan Randle (6'9'-F-81, college: Maryland) added to the roster for the remaining of the season. Randle just finished playing in France (Orchy )
Season: 2010-2011 (France ). 'We look forward to having his authority at he Center position for the remainder of the season' says Coach Neal Mitchell. UBL Lightning look to mount up for the remainder of the season to go ahead and make that push for the 1st franchise UBL championship!

Summary
Team G MIN PTS 2FGP 3FGP FT RO RD RT AS PF BS ST TO
Orchy 7 102 57 25-42 0-1 7-11 6 11 17 1 13 2 1 9
AVERAGE
Orchy 7 14.6 8.1 59.5% 0.0% 63.6% 0.9 1.6 2.4 0.1 1.9 0.3 0.1 1.3

UBL
COME GET SOME!!

CHASE ADAMS LANDS BACK IN DALLAS, TEXAS! - by Torrence Moody
The UBL Metroplex Lightning are making key franchise moves to acquire the essentials needed to make a run at this years UBL Championship. Another key signing of former Pittsburgh and Dallas Impact PG Chase Adams. Chase recently just returned from playing in Dortmund (Germany). Earlier this year he was 'HEAD' of the Dallas Impact ABA franchise before moving on to Germany. 'This kid can flat out play' says Owner Mitchell. Chase will quickly become a focal point for the Lightning and bring experience and energy to the team. Chase was the starting point guard in Germany.

Born: Dec.30, 1988 in Washington D.C.
Son of Tangita and Daramola Adams and has one older sister.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Career:
Baltimore, MD Mt. St. Joseph HS
2006-2007: Centenary (NCAA): 29 games: 5.7ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.1apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 40.4%, 3Pts: 35.0%, FT: 72.3%
2007-2008: Centenary (NCAA): 31 games: 8.2ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.7apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 40.6%, 3Pts: 33.8%, FT: 78.7%
2008-2009: Centenary (NCAA, starting five): 31 games: 14.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 4.5apg, 2.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3Pts: 39.8%, FT: 70.3%
2009-2010: Pittsburgh (NCAA): 27 games: 1.9ppg
2010-2011: Dallas Impact (ABA, starting five), in Dec.'10 moved to SVD 49 Dortmund (Germany-Regionalliga, starting five)

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UKRAINE

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Steve BURTT
  Dnipro
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 22.4

1. Burtt, Dnipro	22.4
2. Flores, BC Donetsk	16.7
3. Washington, BC Od.	16.4
4. Burns, Fe.	16.4
5. Curry, Azovmash	16.1
6. Wiggins, Halychyna	15.1
7. Millage, Khimik	14.9
8. Love, Mykolaiv	14.7
9. Bakic, Kryvbasb.	14.5
10. Fraser, DniproAzot	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Fraser, DniproAzot	10.9
2. Wiggins, Halychyna	9.3
3. Burns, Fe.	8.0
4. Saltovets, BC Kyiv	7.6
5. Austin, Dnipro	7.3
6. Morrison, Halyc.	7.2
7. Owens, Azovmash	6.6
8. Chappell, Hoverla	6.6
9. Coleman, Hoverla	6.4
10. Hunter, Fe.	6.4

Assists Per Game

Steve BURTT
  Dnipro
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Burtt, Dnipro	5.5
2. Abernethy, Halyc.	5.2
3. Zimmerman, Hoverla	4.9
4. Sparks, BC Odessa	4.8
5. Funn, Halychyna	4.7
6. Vasiljevic, BC Do.	4.6
7. Millage, Khimik	4.5
8. Brewer, BC Odessa	4.5
9. Slipenchuk, Kryvba.	4.2
10. Williams, Khimik	3.9

Steals Per Game

Curtis MILLAGE
  Khimik
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Millage, Khimik	2.4
2. House, Azovmash	1.9
3. Sparks, BC Odessa	1.8
4. Sirutavicius, Dnip.	1.5
5. Mazutis, Mykolaiv	1.5
6. Burns, Fe.	1.5
7. Love, Mykolaiv	1.4
8. Burenko, BC Kyiv	1.4
9. Chappell, Hoverla	1.4
10. Sirsnins, DniproA.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

James HUGHES
  Mykolaiv
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Hughes, Mykolaiv	2.1
2. Kravtsov, BC Do.	1.9
3. Hunter, Fe.	1.5
4. Morrison, Halyc.	1.4
5. Zaitsev, Kryvbasb.	1.4
6. Coleman, Hoverla	1.3
7. Turner, BC Odessa	1.3
8. Pettway, Dnipro	1.2
9. Balashov, BC Odes.	1.2
10. Owens, Azovmash	1.1

Khimik invite Estonian coach - by Eurobasket News
Khimik Yuzhny are negotiating contract with Aivar Kuusmaa. The 43-year-old Estonian specialist has just finished a brilliant season in Estonia. He guided Kalev/Cramo to the title as they swept archrivals TU/Rock in the championship series. Aivar Kuusmaa stepped on the bridge of Kalev/Cramo at the start of the season. He signed a 3-year contract with the team. So Kalev/Cramo management expects the answer from the coach about his future in the upcoming week. Aivar Kuusmaa has reportedly started talks with the Ukrainian team about possible employment. Aivar Kuusmaa worked with TTU/Kalev in 2007/10 seasons. He also worked as coach assistant with Kalev/Cramo in 2006/07 season. Kuusmaa also guided Estonian U18 selection at 2008 European Championship in Greece.

Superleague Round 1 of Finals. Budivelnyk surprise BC Donetsk on the road - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

BC Donetsk - Budivelnyk 63-88

Budivelnyk stunned BC Donetsk on the road to open the championship series. The game without a history. Budivelnyk led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. American guard Dewarick Spencer (193-G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Arkansas St.) fired 17 points and 4 assists for the winners. His fellow American import guard William Keys (188-77, college: N.Mexico St.) chipped in 15 points and 5 assists. Four Budivelnyk players scored in double figures. International center Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-87, agency: Beo Basket) produced 14 points and 8 rebounds and Serbian-Bosnian guard Sasa Vasiljevic (183-79, agency: Beo Basket) added 16 points (made all of his seven free throws) respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
BC Donetsk: S.Vasiljevic 16+4reb+2ast, V.Kravtsov 14+8reb, J.Edwards 10+5reb, D.Gliebov 6+4reb+1ast, A.Owens 5+1reb+1ast, B.Cvetkovic 4+2reb+2ast
Budivelnyk: D.Spencer 17+4reb+4ast, W.Keys 15+4reb+5ast, A.Agafonov 13+2reb+1ast, L.Wilson 13+3reb+2ast, D.Zabirchenko 7+3reb, D.Lukashov 5+1reb+2ast

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

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

URUGUAY

Quentine Smith leads Atenas with 34 points and 15 rebounds - by Hector Lopez
Quentin Smith (205-C-77, college: Mississippi St.) scored 34 points (74%) and grabbed 15 rebounds leading Atenas to beat Yale 95-82, after an overtime, for the Metro League 9th round Smith also had two blocks six asssits and recived 13 fouls to reach his fifth win without defeats since he joined Atenas. For the winner Marcos Cabot (178-PG-89) added 24 points. For Yale Leandro Taboada (180-G-86) netted 28 points, including 17 points in the last four minutes of the regular time to send the game into overtime. Tarrie Monroe (202-F-77, college: Lewis) scored 18 points and grabbed 6 rebounds, also for Yale.

Standings - Metropolitan League

Metropolitan Standings

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

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Women News

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

AUSTRALIA - Women

Storm's Jackson looks ahead to 2012 Olympics - by Eurobasket News
Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) has proven before she can juggle multiple basketball responsibilities, splitting her time between the Seattle Storm, various European teams and the Australian national team.

Her ability to prioritize will again get a workout during the next two seasons.

Jackson's primary focus now is leading the defending WNBA champion Storm into the 2011 season. But Jackson is also looking much further ahead after announcing she would miss the first part of the 2012 WNBA campaign to give her undivided attention next year to the Australian squad as it prepares for the 2012 London Olympics.

'The Opals have been really good to me in that program, and I just feel like I need to give back a little bit,' the 6-foot-5 power forward said after the opening day of the Storm's camp Sunday. 'I'm the captain of that team, and I just want to lead the way.'

Some players might have considered such a decision a no-brainer. In fact, two players who were part of last year's Storm title run, Svetlana Abrosimova of Russia and Jana Vesela of the Czech Republic, are skipping the upcoming WNBA season to train with their respective national teams.

But for Jackson, who turned 30 on May 11 and is coming off her third league MVP award after averaging 20.5 points and 8.3 rebounds in 2010, it wasn't necessarily that easy.

'It was back and forth. It was one of those things where I had to weigh out what my priorities were,' she said. 'For the last 11 years, I've given everything to the Storm, and I'll continue to in the future. But for me, at this stage of my career, I feel like next year is going to be my last Olympics with the Australian team.'

Storm coach Brian Agler, who also serves as Seattle's director of player personnel, understands Jackson's decision.

'We try to take pride in our organization to work with our players,' Agler said. 'Unlike most professional sports athletes, WNBA players have several priorities. Lauren has the Storm, her other pro team in Europe (Valencia beginning this fall) and the national team.

'The only thing I felt we could do is support her,' Agler said. 'But that's next year, and we're not going to worry about that now.'

Jackson will return to the Storm after the Olympics.

'I don't think that was even a question,' she said. 'I'm giving it my all to the national team. It's not taking away from anything I feel about here. Everything that I love in Seattle will be back here, and I'll finish my career here. But next year is really important to me.'

Jackson led Australia to the silver medal during the 2008 Beijing Olympics. But she missed the rest of the WNBA season because she had arthroscopic surgery on her right ankle after the games.

She's confident such a situation won't arise again.

'The great thing is that while I'm training (for the Olympics), I'll be training with people who know my body really well, so they'll have me in great shape. So I feel pretty confident about my decision and feel like I made the right choice.'

Courtesy of www.seattlepi.com

Nicole Hunt re-signs with the Capitals - by Eurobasket News
The Canberra Capitals have today announced the re-signing of point guard Nicole Hunt (167-G-88) for the upcoming WNBL season.

A former WNBL Betty Watson Rookie of the Year, Hunt spent time at the AIS and Dandenong Rangers, before joining the Capitals for season 2010/11.

Hunt played in all 24 games this past season for the Capitals, including the WNBL Grand Final. She averaged 6.8 points and 2.8 assists.

She is currently playing for the Launceston Tornadoes in the SEABL, where she is the current Player of the Week.

I am delighted to welcome Nicole Hunt back to the Capitals for season 2011/12. Nicole was a great asset to the Club last season and had made the starting point guard position her own. I know that Coach Carrie Graf is looking forward to working closely with her and taking her game to the next level, said Basketball ACT CEO, Mark Cartwright.

Nicole brings maturity beyond her years, leadership ability and traditional point guard skills to the group. Towards the end of last season she found a nice mix between distributing the ball and beating her own player off the dribble to create scoring opportunities directly for herself.

Courtesy of WNBL (www.wnbl.com.au)

Townsville Fire sign Nicole Romeo - by Eurobasket News
The Townsville Fire have announced former Canberra Capitals point guard Nicole Romeo (168-G-89, college: Washington) as their latest signing for their 2011/12 WNBL squad.

Romeo is currently playing with Rockhampton in the QBL, but played in all 24 games for the Canberra Capitals in season 2010/11, including the WNBL Grand Final. She averaged 5.2 points and 2 assists per game in a star-studded Capitals roster.

Romeo told the Townsville Bulletin she was excited about the opportunity to continue the growth she displayed over the last two years with the Capitals.

'In my second year at Canberra I got an opportunity to showcase the type of player that I want to be in the league but I hope at Townsville I can get the opportunity to keep growing and establish myself in the WNBL,' Romeo told the Townsville Bulletin.

Townsville now sport a formidable back court, with Romeo charged with supporting Opals squad member and Fire captain Rachael Flanagan.

Flanagan is the two-time reigning WNBL Robyn Maher Defensive Player of the Year, and someone Romeo is keen to learn from.

'I really respect her and competing against her every day is something that I'm really looking forward to,' Romeo told the Townsville Bulletin.

'Flanny runs the show ... but I want to be right there behind her, pushing her and trying to learn and improve as much as I can.'

Courtesy of WNBL (www.wnbl.com.au)

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

CANADA - Women

Wheelchair basketball league Finals: Quebec wins first-ever championship title - by Eurobasket News
Team Quebec captured its first-ever National Championship title in front of a loud hometown crowd with a tight 49-46 defeat over the Edmonton Inferno in the final game at the 2011 Women's CWBL National Championships in Longueuil, QC.

Led by tournament MVP and Womens U25 National Team standout Cindy Ouellet, Quebec held on to the three-point lead in the final seconds of the game despite a spirited comeback attempt by the Inferno.

Quebec started the game with intensity and seized the momentum early. The team established a 15-9 lead after the first frame and with further execution at both ends of the court, Quebec entered the fourth quarter with a 41-29 advantage.

The Inferno showed no signs of quitting and stormed back in the final frame. Edmonton went on a 12-4 run to climb within reach (45-41) on the scoreboard with just over three minutes left to play. The Inferno pulled within three points with less than a minute left on the clock, but Quebec stemmed the tide and held on for the victory.
It was a really good game. The intensity was really good the whole way. We had a couple minutes here and there that were a little bit down, but generally, it went pretty well, said Ouellet.

Quebec captured the gold for the first time following several other podium finishes at the tournament in years past.

Obviously, we are really proud of ourselves. We played as a team and the 10 of all played. It was awesome. Ive been on the team for three years and Im excited I finally won gold, said Ouellet.

I think the future is very bright for us. We have had trouble in the past with playoffs and keeping our emotions together. This year I think Team Quebec stepped it up, said Quebec Head Coach Jason Eng.

Edmonton played a strong game and fell just shy of completing the comeback in the final quarter.

We knew that Quebec would go on a run and if we could ride that tide over the run we knew we could come back. We just knew it was a game of momentum and if we executed our game plan we would be in the game, and thats exactly what happened until the end of the game, said Inferno player and tournament all-star Karla Tritten.

Tournament all-star Gabrielle Cote scored a game-high 25 points for Quebec. Ouellet added 14 points of her own in the win.

Tritten, a former member of the Sr. Womens National Team, tallied a team-leading 16 points and 11 rebounds to earn the double-double for Edmonton.

Bronze Medal Game
Earlier in the day, the Calgary Rollers upset the defending champion BC Breakers to claim the bronze medal by a score of 53-44. The Breakers led on the scoreboard for the first two frames but Calgary completed the comeback in the final half of the tight, hard-fought game. Tournament all-star Kendra Ohama scored 13 points for the Rollers in the victory while her Team Canada teammate Elisha Williams led the Breakers in scoring with 14 points.

2011 Womens CWBL National Championships Final Results
Gold Quebec
Silver Edmonton Inferno
Bronze Calgary Rollers
4th Place British Columbia Breakers
5th Place U25
6th Place Ontario
7th Place Ottawa Phoenix

MVP Cindy Ouellet - Quebec

All-Stars
Elaine Allard Quebec
Gabrielle Cote Quebec
Katie Harnock Ontario
Kendra Ohama Calgary Rollers
Karla Tritten Edmonton Inferno

High-resolution photos from the National & Womens CWBL National Championships are available for download (please credit Wheelchair Basketball Canada): http://www.flickr.com/photos/wheelchairbasketball/sets/72157626714107934/

Schedule & Results:
2011 National Championships http://www.wheelchairbasketball.ca/en/tournament.aspx?id=3725
2011 CWBL Womens National Championships http://www.wheelchairbasketball.ca/en/tournament.aspx?id=3728

Team Rosters:
2011 National Championships http://www.wheelchairbasketball.ca/en/content.aspx?id=3726
2011 CWBL Womens National Championships http://www.wheelchairbasketball.ca/en/content.aspx?id=3729

The tournament is being held in conjunction with the National Wheelchair Basketball Championships - where the best mens provincial teams in the country will also compete to decide a National Champion.

The tournament features elite players from across Canada including members of the Canadian Senior Mens, Senior Womens, and Under-25 Womens National Teams.

Both Senior National Teams are preparing to embark on the road to the 2012 Paralympic Games. They will compete at the 2011 Parapan American Games (November 12-20) in Guadalajara, Mexico, which double as the qualification tournament for London 2012.

The Womens U25 National Team is preparing to host the world at the first-ever Womens U25 World Wheelchair Basketball Championships (July 15-21, 2011) in St. Catharines, ON.

Courtesy of www.basketball.ca

The 19th Annual BLG Awards: Clemencon named CIS athlete of the year - by Eurobasket News
VANCOUVER (CIS) Basketball players Jessica Clemencon (188-F-89) from the University of Windsor and Tyson Hinz from Carleton University are the 2011 BLG Award winners as Canadian Interuniversity Sport female and male athletes of the year.

Official website: www.blg.com/blgawards

The recipients of the 19th annual BLG Awards were announced Monday night at The Centre in Vancouver For Performing Arts in Vancouver, British Columbia. The awards show will premiere on TSN on Saturday, June 4, at noon EDT.

All eight nominees one female and one male from each of CIS' four regional associations - received a commemorative gold ring, while Clemenon and Hinz were also presented with a trophy and a $10,000 scholarship to attend a Canadian University graduate school.

The winners were selected by the Canadian Athletic Foundation, a not-for-profit Board established for the purpose of administering the BLG Awards and protecting the integrity of the selection process.

'On behalf of BLG and the Canadian Athletic Foundation trustees, I would like to congratulate Jessica and Tyson, the winners of the 19th annual BLG Awards,' said Doug Mitchell, National Co-Chair of BLG. 'The eight student-athletes who were nominated are all outstanding in their sport and it is always very difficult to choose only two winners from this elite group. I congratulate all the nominees for their accomplishments.'

'Once again this year, all nominees had impressive pedigrees and would have been worthy winners,' said Marg McGregor, chief executive officer of CIS. 'CIS is very proud of all the finalists and we congratulate Jessica and Tyson on winning these prestigious awards.'

A native of Saint-Rambert, France, Clemenon took home the Jim Thompson Trophy, named after the late president of TSN and presented annually to the female BLG Award winner.

Hinz, who was born in Sherbrooke, Que., and moved to Ottawa at a very young age, received the Doug Mitchell Trophy, named in honour of the BLG Awards founder and Chair of the Canadian Athletic Foundation.

Clemenon became the second recipient from the University of Windsor after track and field and cross country star Ryan McKenzie in 2003, while Hinz is the second winner from Carleton following fellow basketball player Osvaldo Jeanty in 2006.

It marked the first time in history that two basketball players were honoured in the same year and only the second time that both awards go to the nominees from the Ontario University Athletics regional association. Toronto track and field athlete Foy Williams and McMaster basketball player Titus Channer had swept the awards for OUA in 1998.

After being named CIS rookie of the year in her Lancers' debut in 2009-10, Clemenon, a 6-foot-3 post, captured the Nan Copp Award as the most outstanding player in CIS basketball this season, becoming the first player in history to win those two awards in back-to-back campaigns.

She kicked off the 2010-11 schedule by leading the Lancers to three straight pre-season tournament titles earning all-tourney status on each occasion and never looked back. After finishing the regular season among national leaders in almost every statistical category - including an OUA-leading 19.0 points per game - she scored a game-high 17 points in the Ontario final as Windsor claimed its third consecutive OUA banner.

The Lancers then had a chance to make history at the CIS championship by becoming the first team to hoist the coveted Bronze Baby Trophy on home court. They once again turned to Clemenon, who once again delivered. The 21-year-old topped all players in both the CIS semi-final and gold medal contests with back-to-back 18-point performances to help Windsor capture its first national title. It marked the first time since 1991 that the banner was claimed by a school from outside Canada West.

A former junior national team member in France, the arts & English sophomore dreams of playing professional basketball in Europe and representing her country at the senior level.

The other nominees for the 2011 Jim Thompson Trophy were Universit de Moncton hockey player Marive Provost of Laval, Que., University of Montreal soccer player Vronique Laverdire of Montreal, as well as University of British Columbia volleyball player Shanice Marcelle of Victoria.

Following a solid freshman campaign that saw him land a spot on the OUA East all-rookie team in 2009-10, Hinz, a 6-foot-6 forward, was given more responsibilities in his second season with the Ravens following the graduation of all-Canadian and leading scorer Kevin McCleery. He delivered in a big way.

Hinz was the Ravens' top scorer (17.0 ppg) and rebounder (6.0 rpg) in the regular season thanks in part to his OUA-leading 57.2 field-goal percentage as Carleton was the only undefeated team in the nation at the end of conference play (22-0). On the eve of the national championship tournament, he was named CIS player of the year, becoming one of the youngest Mike Moser Memorial Trophy recipients in history at only 19 years of age.

The commerce sophomore was then chosen Game MVP following each of Carleton's first two victories at the CIS Final Eight, including a 32-point outburst in a semi-final win over defending national champion Saskatchewan. Twenty-four hours later, he received the Jack Donohue Trophy as tournament MVP after the Ravens beat Trinity Western to claim their seventh CIS banner in nine years.

Hinz's parents both played varsity basketball at McGill and his father, Will, is the second-leading scorer in school history. His grandfather is also in the Newfoundland Basketball Hall of Fame.

St. Francis Xavier University soccer player Michael Marousek of Prague, Czech Republic, McGill University hockey player Alexandre Picard-Hooper of Boucherville, Que., and University of Calgary volleyball player Graham Vigrass of Calgary were the other finalists for the 2011 Doug Mitchell Trophy.
Courtesy of: http://english.cis-sic.ca

OUA women's basketball all-star game highlights Ontario Cup - by Eurobasket News
HAMILTON, Ont. Twenty of the best Ontario University Athletics (OUA) women's basketball players come together as West and East faceoff on Saturday, May 7 in the OUA All-Star Game at RIM Park in Waterloo, Ont. as part of Ontario Basketball's (OBA) 2011 Ontario Cup Provincial Championships. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. and admission is free of charge.

Headlining the OUA West team is OUA and Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) player of the year Jessica Clemenon (St. Rambert, France) of the Windsor Lancers. The second-year forward led the league in scoring, recording 419 points through the season which culminated with a sweep of the OUA and CIS championships on home court. Joining Clemenon is Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks product Renata Adamczyk (175-G) (Greensville, Ont.), this year's Joy Bellinger Award recipient, and previous two-time West defender of the year. The two major award winners will join forces with first team all-star Whitney Gorges (175-G-84) (Welland, Ont.) of Brock and second team all-stars Taylor Chiarot (180-F-89) (Hamilton, Ont.) from McMaster, Lakehead's Lindsay Druery (185-F-88) (Smithville, Ont.), Brock's Emily McKay (170-G) (Toronto) and Miah-Marie Langlois (Windsor, Ont.) of the Lancers. Representing the West all rookie team are Lacey Knox (Kingston, Ont.) and Laura Dally (180-G-92) (Bright's Grove, Ont.) of the Mustangs, and Windsor's Korissa Williams (Windsor, Ont.). This West team is looking to defend last year's all-star title. Western's Jenny Vaughn (Dundas, Ont.) will be in attendance for the day's festivities but unable to play due to injury. The West will be coached by Laurier head coach Paul Falco, the 2010-11 West Coach of the Year.

For a second consecutive year the OUA East player of the year Hannah Sunley-Paisley (Toronto) of the Ottawa Gee-Gees will be a force in the middle for the East squad. The fourth-year centre ranked fifth this season in scoring, averaging 15.91 points per game. Joining Sunley-Paisley is Katie Goggins (165-G-88) (Hamner, Ont.) who won both the Defensive Player of the Year and the East Joy Bellinger Award this past season. The four-time Academic All-Canadian scored 273 points over 20 games this season and recorded 101 defensive rebounds, 69 steals. The rest of the roster is made up of first team all-stars Ashley MacDonald (Port Colborne, Ont.) of Ryerson, and Laurentian's Lisa Furchner (183-F-88) (Sudbury, Ont.), second team all-stars Brittany Szockyj (170-G) (Niagara on the Lake, Ont.) of York, and Toronto's Sherri Pierce (168-G) (Brampton, Ont.) and from the East all rookie team, Liz Boag (G) (Kingston, Ont.) and Gemma Bullard (177-G-92) (Guelph, Ont.) will done the Gaels gold as representatives from Queen's. Toronto's first team all-star Nicki Schutz (Toronto) will be on hand but sidelined due to injury. In her absence, East coach of the year Michle Blanger of the Toronto Varsity Blues hands the all-star coaching duties to her two assistants Christine Cho and Jim Henderson.

A full day of events is planned before the all-star game, beginning with a sold-out OBA Mega Hoops Mania clinic run by the OUA all-stars at 11 a.m. This three hour, funfilled, action packed skill session will lead participants through progressive activities as they learn the proper execution of basketball fundamentals. Following the clinic the all-stars will take to the court in an interactive skills competition. From 2:30 till 6 p.m. all fans will be welcome to test their skills, and see how they match up against the OUA all-stars.

The OUA all-star game is being held in conjunction with the U17 Juvenile girls and U19 Junior women OBA Provincial Championships, with games taking place in the Waterloo region all weekend.

OUA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL ALL-STAR GAME ROSTERS

OUA WEST ROSTER

Jessica Clemencon (188-F-89) Windsor Lancers
Renata Adamczyk Laurier Golden Hawks
Whitney Gorges Brock Badgers
Miah-Marie Langlois Windsor Lancers
Taylor Chiarot McMaster Marauders
Emily McKay Brock Badgers
Lindsay Druery Lakehead Thunderwolves
Lacey Knox Western Mustangs
Laura Dally Western Mustangs
Korissa Williams Windsor Lancers
Jenny Vaughn Western Mustangs

Coach: Paul Falco, Laurier Golden Hawks

OUA EAST ROSTER

Hannah Sunley-Paisley Ottawa Gee-Gees
Katie Goggins Laurentian Lady Vees
Lisa Furchner Laurentian Lady Vees
Nicki Schutz Toronto Varsity Blues
Ashley MacDonald Ryerson Rams
Brittany Szockyj York Lions
Sherri Pierce Toronto Varsity Blues
Liz Boag Queen's Gaels
Gemma Bullard Queen's Gaels

Coaches: Christine Cho and Jim Henderson, Toronto Varsity Blues

ABOUT ONTARIO BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION
Ontario Basketball is a not-for-profit association that governs the sport of basketball in the province. Incorporated in 1977, Ontario Basketball represents Ontario's amateur basketball interests, its membership consists of athletes, coaches, officials, clubs, camps, local basketball organizations, groups, leagues and basketball supporters. By living our values, Ontario Basketball aspires to be a world-class leader in the development and enrichment of the people in our sport. For more information on Ontario Basketball and its programs please visit www.basketball.on.ca.
Courtesy of: http://english.cis-sic.ca

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CUBA - Women

Zuleira Aties remained in Codigalco Carmelitas Ourense - by Eurobasket News
Cuban Zuleira Aties (190-F/C-80) will remain in Codigalco Carmelitas Ourense ifor another season. In January 2011 she joined the team in Spain and showed that it will need her in the next season. Before that Zuleira Aties played for Italmoka Pozzuoli (Italy-A1, starting five) and in 29 games averaged 8.9ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.4spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 15.4%, FT: 65.2%.
Codigalco Carmelitas will also keep Mar Ahijado, Laura Fernandez and Beata Gullberg for the next season. It is also expected that Noelia Oliva and Mara Alvarez will stay in the team.

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GREECE - Women

Eurobasket.com All-Greek League Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-Greek League 1st Team 2011

McLaren

Koch

Sotiriou

Marginean

Riley

Player of the Year: Kaili McLaren (188-F-88) of Apollon
Guard of the Year: Kary Koch (173-G-83) of Panionios
Forward of the Year: Kaili McLaren (188-F-88) of Apollon
Center of the Year: Ruth Riley (196-C-79) of Athinaikos
Newcomer of the Year: Thoma Kotsopoulou (178-G-88) of DAS Ano Liosa
Most Improved Player of the Year: Aglaia Karadima (183-G-82) of Apollon
Bosman Player of the Year: Gabriela Marginean (185-F-87) of Panathinaikos
Domestic Player of the Year: Tania Halivera (178-G-85) of FEA Neas
Defensive Player of the Year: Kary Koch (173-G-83) of Panionios
Coach of the Year: Ioannis Ktistakis of Athinaikos

1st Team
G: Kary Koch (173-83) of Panionios
F: Katerina Sotiriou (187-84) of Athinaikos
F: Gabriela Marginean (185-87) of Panathinaikos
F: Kaili McLaren (188-88) of Apollon
C: Ruth Riley (196-79) of Athinaikos

2nd Team
G: Dimitra Kalentzou (174-78) of Athinaikos
G: Jennifer Derevjanik (175-82) of Panathinaikos
F/C: Diana Delva (188) of DAS Ano Liosa
F: Stephany Skrba (188-87) of Aris
C: Asimina Koutsounouri (190) of Olympiakos

Honorable Mention
Aglaia Karadima (183-G-82) of Apollon
Lolita Lymoura (180-G-85) of Athinaikos
Natali Ploubi (169-G-81) of DAS Ano Liosa
Anna Spiridopoulou (182-F-88) of Aris
Nafsika Stavridou (182-G-86) of PAOK
Niki Hatzakou (175-G-82) of Aris
Efi Kazantzidou (177-G-84) of PAOK
Lidia Milkova (192-C-70) of Esperides
Ioanna Diela (175-F-90) of DAS Ano Liosa
LaToya Davis (186-F/C-84) of Athinaikos

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Thoma Kotsopoulou (178-88) of DAS Ano Liosa
G: Dimitra Kalentzou (174-78) of Athinaikos
G: Olga Hatzinikolaou (181-81) of Athinaikos
G: Tania Halivera (178-85) of FEA Neas
C: Asimina Koutsounouri (190) of Olympiakos

All-Imports Team
G: Kary Koch (173-83) of Panionios
F/C: Diana Delva (188) of DAS Ano Liosa
F: Kaili McLaren (188-88) of Apollon
F/C: LaToya Davis (186-84) of Athinaikos
C: Ruth Riley (196-79) of Athinaikos

All-Bosmans Team
G: Tamara Ruzic (181-79) of Apollon
G/F: Tina Sten (189-85) of Panionios
F: Gabriela Marginean (185-87) of Panathinaikos
F/C: Linda Frohlich (188-79) of Proteas
C: Marina Kress (192-80) of Athinaikos

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ITALY - Women

Valeria Battisodo will replace Chiara Pastore in the National team - by Eurobasket News
Valeria Battisodo (177-G-88) will replace Chiara Pastore (171-G-86) in the National team as the latter is being injured and can not help the team that starts the preparation for Eurobasket 2011.
Valeria Battisodo is a player of Basket Parma. Earlier in 2005-2006 she played for Stem Marine Parma (A1) and after playing for Lavezzini Parma she joined Liomatic Umbertide (A1) in 2008. After 28 games Valeria averaged 3.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.8spg. In 2009-2010 moved to Club Atletico Faenza (A1) and in 26 games her stats read 2.8ppg, 2.1spg. Last season Valeria Battisodo enjoyed the year with Basket Parma (A1) and in 22 games showed 7.1ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 80.0%.
Valeria Battisodo recorded 20 points in the Regular Season Round 9 when Basket Parma lost to Lucca 68:81. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 9-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 81-68. Ducato Lucca had a 27-12 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American power forward Courtney Willis who had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds. Portuguese forward Mery Andrade chipped in 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international guard Valeria Battisodo who recorded 20 points.

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MALTA - Women

Luxol step closer to the title - by Eurobasket News
Luxol made the first step towards earning the title. They outscored the defending champions Hibs Medsea in the first game of the best-of-three championship series. Luxol celebrated a 51:46 win and would be looking to close out the series on Sunday.
Luxol got to a slightly better start. They posted a 10:7 lead after ten minutes. Luxol continued to maintain the lead in the second frame. They recorded a 19:11 advantage after the first half. Luxol seemed en route to a convincing victory as they gained a 42:23 lead in the second half. But Hibs Medsea showed character. They went on a 23:6 run to narrow the deficit at just two points. Emma Moore came up with timely free throws to silence Hibs and bring victory for Luxol. Stephanie De Martino (184-F-93) nailed 28 points to lead the winners.

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NCAA2 - Women

Former NCAA D2 Stars Lift WBCBL Columbus Hidden Gems to Victory in 1st Game! - by Lucius Jones
Several former NCAA D2 stars were on display in the initial home game of the WBCBL Columbus Hidden Gems in Ohio versus Detroit. The 86-83 thriller was a very intense, passionate game for both teams. Head Coach Lucius Jones was quoted saying 'This game was what the WBCBL is all about in my opinion. 2 great teams giving the fans exactally what they wanted, which was a high quality, event full of excitement and passion. Our entire team gave an amazing effort tonight, but two in particular, Catherine Cain and Niki McCoy, I feel really showed why they are each top notch professional prospects who I expect to place overseas in 2011.'

South Carolina Aiken star Catherine Cain (5'11''-F, college: USC Aiken) led the Columbus Hidden Gems with an outstanding outing. Cain went off for 25points on 8-8FG, 2-2 3pt, 7-8FT, 11rebs (7off), 3asts, 3stls. Jessica Slack (5'11''-G, college: N.Kentucky), the former National Champion and All American of N.Kentucky had 21points on 5-7FG, 3-4 3pt, 8-8FT, 4rebs (1off), 1ast, 3stls and the game-winning 3point shot with 30seconds left. Niki McCoy (5'11''-F/G-86, college: Bowling Green) had a great all around game as well with 9points, 6rebs (3off), 3asts, 4stls, 3blks.

Look for the Columbus Hidden Gems to have another exciting event on May 21st at 6pm at Lazelle Woods Rec Ctr at 8140 Sancus Blvd. when they take on the Flint Monarchs for 1st place in the NorthEast Region of the WBCBL.

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POLAND - Women

Javier Fort will be a new Head Coach of Lotos Gdynia - by Grzegorz Ozog
Javier Fort will be a Head Coach of Lotos Gdynia. For the past four years he worked in Rivas Ecopolis. For his Awards/Achievements we can include promotion to the Spanish LFB Semifinals (2010, 2011) and win the Spanish LFB Cup (2011). The Spanish team led by Javier Fort twice advanced to the Euroleague 1/8 final.

In the previous season the Head Coach of Lotos Gdynia was Dariusz Raczynski . After the first part of the season he was replaced by Georgios Dikaioulakos (agency: FCM ).

Stats Leaders - PLKK

Points Per Game

Laurie KOEHN
  Utex Row
  (173-G-82)
  Avg: 17.3

1. Koehn, Utex Row	17.3
2. Wright, Lotos G.	15.0
3. Ross, Lider P.	15.0
4. Harris, Utex Row	14.9
5. Kobryn, Wisla C.	14.3
6. Szott, Artego	14.0
7. Jankowska, LKS S.	14.0
8. Mosby, Lider P.	13.7
9. Cheek, Super-Pol	13.3
10. Fox-Griffin, Supe.	13.3

Rebounds Per Game

Ugochukwu OHA
  LKS Siemens
  (193-C-82)
  Avg: 9.9

1. Oha, LKS Siemens	9.9
2. Bjelica, Lotos Gdy.	9.2
3. Carter, CCC P.	8.6
4. Leuchanka, Wisla C.	8.4
5. Crisman, Artego	7.9
6. Alexander, Odra B.	7.9
7. Cheek, Super-Pol	7.8
8. Denson, Lider P.	7.7
9. Jankowska, LKS S.	7.4
10. Irvin, Lotos Gdyn.	7.3

Assists Per Game

Sharnee ZOLL
  CCC P.
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 5.7

1. Zoll, CCC P.	5.7
2. Richards, Gorzow	4.2
3. Kulaga, Super-Pol	4.1
4. Phillips, Wisla C.	3.9
5. Raymond, Artego	3.8
6. Swanier, Lotos G.	3.8
7. Idczak, Inea AZS	3.7
8. Bortelova, Energa	3.6
9. Gawronska, Odra B.	3.5
10. Babkina, Lotos G.	3.5

Steals Per Game

Naketia SWANIER
  Lotos G.
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Swanier, Lotos G.	2.8
2. Ross, Lider P.	2.4
3. Phillips, Wisla C.	2.4
4. Bednarek, Lider P.	2.3
5. Leedham, Gorzow	2.2
6. Wright, Lotos G.	2.2
7. Carter, CCC P.	2.1
8. Crisman, Artego	2.0
9. Powell, Wisla C.	2.0
10. Harris, Utex Row	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Brittany DENSON
  Lider P.
  (191-C-87)
  Avg: 2

1. Denson, Lider P.	2.0
2. Majewska, CCC P.	1.7
3. Irvin, Lotos Gdynia	1.4
4. Burse, Wisla C.	1.3
5. Perostiyska, Energ.	1.3
6. Jankowska, LKS S.	1.1
7. Goff, Super-Pol	1.0
8. Kobryn, Wisla C.	0.9
9. Oha, LKS Siemens	0.9
10. Carter, CCC P.	0.8

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SPAIN - Women

Lucila Pascua leaves Mann Filter - by Eurobasket News
Lucila Pascua (196-C-83) leaves Mann Filter after two seasons spent with the team. She actually started there early in 2001 and in 2005-2006 moved to Acis-Incosa Leon (LFB). In EuroCup she debuted with 6.8ppg, 8.1rpg, 0.9apg, FGP: 50%, 3FGP: 100%, FT: 77.8%, while in Spanish League after 26 games her stats read 8.6ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 38.3%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 73.7%. In her last season for Baloncesto Feve San Jose Leon (LFB, starting five) in EuroCup Lucila Pascua increased to 7.3ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 15.4%, FT: 47.2% and in Spanish League she showed 7.6ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 82.6%. In 2009-2010 moved back to Mann Filter Zaragoza (LFB, starting five) and in EuroCup averaged 6.5ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 47.7%, FT: 66.7%. In Spanish League after 28 games her stats read 7.9ppg, 7.3rpg, FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 9.1%, FT: 67.3%. Last season Lucila Pascua showed 5.6ppg, 6.2rpg, FGP: 37.7%, FT: 84.2% in EuroCup, while in Spanish League after 28 games her stats read 5.8ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 42.0%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 49.2%.

Codigalco Carmelitas keep Ahijado, Aties, Fernandez and Gullberg - by Eurobasket News
Codigalco Carmelitas keep Mar Ahijado (192-C-85), Zuleira Aties (190-F/C-80), Laura Fernandez (PG-75) and Beata Gullberg (178-F/G-90) for the next season. It is also expected that Noelia Oliva and Mara Alvarez will stay in the team.
Mar Ahijado came to Codigalco Carmelitas Ourense in 2009 and in her first season averaged 5.1ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.0apg, 2FGP: 54%, 3PT: 17%, FT: 68%.
Cuban Zuleira Aties joined Codigalco Carmelitas Ourense in January and showed that the team will need her in the next season. Before that Zuleira Aties played for Italmoka Pozzuoli (Italy-A1, starting five) and in 29 games averaged 8.9ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.4spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 15.4%, FT: 65.2%.
Swedish Beata Gullberg joined the team after two season for Brahe Basket.
Laura Fernandez will spend her third year with the team as she appeared here in 2009-2010. In her first year she averaged 2.3ppg, 1.0rpg.

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USBA - Women

WUSBA will host Job Fair in each team city; 300 positions will be available - by USBA Media
Atlanta, Ga. (May 17, 2011) ---The Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) announce today that the league will host an Open House and a Job Fair in each individual team city. The Open Houses will take place at the home gymnasiums of each individual team. Each team will conduct a job fair, at the same time, in an effort to fill position with individual teams.

Churches, civic groups and fans of each team are invited to come and get autographs, take pictures with the teams and get to know the players who will be representing each individual city. A special invitation has been extended to the Boys and Girls Clubs as well as Big Brothers and Big Sisters organizations. 'We are also extending a very special invitation to children in the foster care system in each city.'

The Open Houses will take place on Saturday May 28, 2011 from 2-7 pm. Refreshments such as hot dogs, soft drinks, chips and other snacks being provided free of charge by Coca-Cola or Pepsi-Cola. Each soft drink company has contractual agreements in place at the college or university under agreement with the WUSBA. Ranstad Employment Service, Inc. will conduct the interview process.

WUSBA president Duane Jenkins says, 'This is an opportunity for us to get to know our supporters and fans in each city. We want our fans to be able to have autographs signed and quite simply, fans will be able to talk to the players on a more personal level. We will conduct a job fair on these dates to fulfill positions with the teams.' The league will employ 15 to 20 people at each home game.

Each local team will conduct interviews for game day staff as well as the introduction of the basketball team, the coaching staff, dance team and mascots.

The league will make season ticket packages available. The open house will mark the continued availability of the 2011 WUSBA Season Ticket Extravaganza. This season ticket promotion is sponsored by the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., along with the advertisers and sponsors of the WUSBA. The league has set aside 1500 single season tickets for this promotion. 'This collaborated effort includes the WUSBA, the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., and many of the leagues partners, sponsors and advertisers,' said Jenkins.

The league has set the price of $105.00 per season ticket and comes with admission to all fourteen home games and as an extra added bonus each season ticket comes with an additional seven free single game tickets; this includes admittance to all home playoff games. As a bonus, fans receive priority seating, complimentary concessions, a free game day program and one 8 x11 full color photograph with the basketball team or the dance team. (The total number of admittance per season ticket is 21, which breaks down to $5.00 per admittance)

According to the league, each season ticket holder will be automatically included in a raffle sponsored by the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc. 'We're very excited about this promotion. Not only do fans get a chance to see high quality basketball at affordable prices, but there is the chance to win a new car, go on a seafarer excursion or to go on a Disney World vacation.''

The prize list is as follows:

* Grand Prize: 2011 Honda Accord LX Four Door Automobile
(one automobile will be given away in each WUSBA city, 14 total league wide),

* 2nd Prize: Disney World Family Vacation
(Family of four, rt airfare on Delta Airlines, transfers to and from the airport, daily Disney World Park passes, meals and lodging at a Disney World theme park hotel included, two given away in each WUSBA team city, 28 total league wide),

* 3rd prize: The Seafarer Odyssey
( Trip for two to Miami, Florida, round trip airfare on Air Tran, two round trip cruise to Nassau, Bahamas, overnight stay at Holiday Inn Intercontinental Hotel, one day car rental from Enterprise, dinner for two at Outback Steak House and breakfast for two at International House of Pancakes, two given away in each WUSBA team city, 28 total league wide.)

* 4th Prize: The Schwinn Bicycle Explosion
(Six mens, six womans, six boys and six girls ten speed bicycles, 24 given away at each WUSBA team city, 336 total league wide)

* 5th Prize: The Outback Steak House Family Feast
(A $60.00 gift card, 25 given away in each WUSBA team city, 350 total league wide)

*6th Prize: The Gasoline Fill-up Extravaganza (A $40.00 gift card, 25 given away in each WUSBA city, 350 total league wide)

* 7th Prize: Russell Athletic Team Polo Shirts
(25 shirts will be given away in each WUSBA team city, 350 total league wide)

All drawings for this promotion will be held at halftime of the teams home season opener. 'As far as we know, this is the biggest and most extravagant season ticket promotion in the history of minor league sports.' said Jenkins. Fans can visit our website for rules and disclaimers about the raffle and the Women's United States Basketball Association. 'We plan to begin our first season with a bang. All of our games will be geared toward top notched basketball competition, family fun and entertainment surrounded in a faith based environment, our goal is to offer each community a great experience', proclaimed Mr. Jenkins. For more information, call the WUSBA league office at (404) 428-3411.

About the Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) --- The WUSBA is a summertime professional women's basketball league. The league was founded in January 2010. The league is headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. The WUSBA will show case players, coaches and dance team members for the WNBA, and the International basketball community. The league's season begins on June 8, 2011 with the regular season ending on September 4, 2011. Each team will play a twenty eight game schedule, which will include 14 home games and 14 away games. The league will host a mid season All Star Game and a season ending Championship play-off series. Elite players can be catapulted to enjoy further basketball career opportunities in the WNBA, well as exposure to the many professional International leagues from around the world. The WUSBA will accept eligible collegiate players, dance team members, game day staff and mascots from the NCAA. League advises college students to seek advice from family, coach or friends before contacting the WUSBA. The league age limit for basketball players is 20 years old or older.

About the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., --- The WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., is a 501 (c) (3) not for profit company; the company was founded in January 2010. Approval for nonprofit status has been applied for and approval will be awarded. The WUSBA Youth Outreach gives aid to people in the community in need, regardless of race, gender, religion, age or any other positions of a persons life. Programs offered by the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc

2011 WUSBA Season Ticket Extravaganza Rules and Disclaimer:
Purchase of a season ticket to any 2011 WUSBA team necessary to be included in the raffle drawing. The WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc. is the sponsor of this promotion. This promotion is open to all residents of West Virginia, Kentucky, Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida, Virginia and North Carolina who purchase a season ticket during this promotion. Promotion ends June 8, 2011 at 12 noon. WUSBA employees, family member of WUSBA employees, team members, Season Ticket Extravaganza sponsors, their employees and their families are ineligible to participate in this promotion. Participants must be at least 18 years old to participate in this promotion. One entry in raffle per season ticket purchased. No other restrictions apply. No substitution of prizes. Prizes are not refundable or transferable. Prize winners are responsible for all taxes and /or gratuity associated with prizes won in this promotion. Odds of winning any prize in this promotion will be determined in direct relation of the number of season tickets sold during this promotion. (Example: 2000 season tickets sold per WUSBA team season, Grand Prize winning odds are 2000 to 1, 2nd prize winning odds are 1000 to 1, 3rd Prize winning odds are 1000 to 1, 4th Prize winning odds are 83 to 1. The 5th, 6th and 7th prizes winning odds are 80 to 1. The WUSBA has set aside 2000 season tickets per WUSBA team city to be sold, a total 28,000 league wide. Odds of winning a prize in this promotion are derived on a per city basis only. If two season tickets are purchased by the same individual for the 2011 basketball season and before 12 noon on June 8, 2011 the odds will increase to give the ticket holder double the chance of winning a prize. This promotion is a WUSBA Youth Outreach sponsored event. The WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., is a 501 (c) (3) Not for Profit Company. Single ticket purchases are not included in this promotion. 2nd and 3rd Prize winners must make travel reservation through the WUSBA. Travel blackout periods may affect certain travel dates. Grand Prize winners have a choice of color. There is no time limit for any of the travel prizes, gift card or any other prize in this promotion. Promotion is void where prohibited by law.

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WBCBL - Women

NCAA D2 Stars Lift Gems to Victory - by Willie McCray
Former NCAA D2 Stars Lift WBCBL Columbus Hidden Gems to Victory in 1st Game! - May 17, 2011
(by Lucius Jones)

Several former NCAA D2 stars were on display in the initial home game of the WBCBL Columbus Hidden Gems in Ohio versus Detroit. The 86-83 thriller was a very intense, passionate game for both teams. Head Coach Lucius Jones was quoted saying 'This game was what the WBCBL is all about in my opinion. 2 great teams giving the fans exactally what they wanted, which was a high quality, event full of excitement and passion. Our entire team gave an amazing effort tonight, but two in particular, Catherine Cain and Niki McCoy, I feel really showed why they are each top notch professional prospects who I expect to place overseas in 2011.'

South Carolina Aiken star Catherine Cain (5'11''-F, college: USC Aiken) led the Columbus Hidden Gems with an outstanding outing. Cain went off for 25points on 8-8FG, 2-2 3pt, 7-8FT, 11rebs (7off), 3asts, 3stls. Jessica Slack (5'11''-G, college: N.Kentucky), the former National Champion and All American of N.Kentucky had 21points on 5-7FG, 3-4 3pt, 8-8FT, 4rebs (1off), 1ast, 3stls and the game-winning 3point shot with 30seconds left. Niki McCoy (5'11''-F/G-86, college: Bowling Green) had a great all around game as well with 9points, 6rebs (3off), 3asts, 4stls, 3blks.

Look for the Columbus Hidden Gems to have another exciting event on May 21st at 6pm at Lazelle Woods Rec Ctr at 8140 Sancus Blvd. when they take on the Flint Monarchs for 1st place in the NorthEast Region of the WBCBL.

Deonta McChester is off to a perfect start - by Willie McCray
By Eric Woodyard

TORONTO Deonta McChesters offical head coaching career is off to a perfect start.

The first-year sideline leader helped the Flint Monarchs run past the Toronto Lady Elite, 69-62, in Toronto on Saturday afternoon to win their first game of the season.

Rather than releshing the moment, McChester is already thinking about the next game.

Im 1-0 right now but Im not happy with being 1-0, said McChester. Im happy with winning the North East Region championship.

Last season under the Flint Lady Flames moniker the team began the year with a four-game losing streak under then head coach, Dreyon Wynn.

McChester was Wynns assistant for that squad who would turn up their production later in the season to finish 12-8 overall and claim the title in their division.

Wynn, currently the teams general manager and president, believes this team is moving in the right direction. He loves the way the new coach switched defenses througout the game.

The Monarchs were led by Natasha Morris with a team-high 19 points and two rebounds.

The 2006 Flint Beecher graduate was added to the roster on the morning of the opening game and had no trouble adjusting on the fly.

Were kind of getting a feel for everyone but outside of that I think we did a good job and thats how we came out with the win, added Morris, who claims she already had a history of practicing with the team.

Brittany Brown chipped in 16 points and 5 boards. Jasmine McCall notched 14 points, 5 assists and two steals and Nan Moore reached 9 points, 5 rebounds and three assists.

The Monarchs were forced to compete with a total of 8 players, because of other obligations and passport issues. Seven of those players were guards.

They will battle the Columbus Hidden Gems on Saturday, May 21 in Columbus, Ohio at 6 p.m.

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WNBA - Women

Sheryl Swoopes' comeback under way as Shock starts training camp - by Eurobasket News
A player said she had trouble sleeping the night before the Tulsa Shock began preseason training camp.

Nervous rookie?

Guess again.

It was hoops icon Sheryl Swoopes (6'0''-F/G-71, college: Texas Tech), owner of three Olympic gold medals and four WNBA championship rings.

Swoopes, 40, signed with the Shock in March in hopes of rekindling a WNBA career. She hasn't played in the WNBA since 2008, and her last couple of years in the league were sandwiched around back surgery.

Swoopes went to bed at 10 p.m. Saturday in an attempt to get a good night's rest before the Shock's first practice Sunday morning.

'I haven't been in bed at 10 o'clock in I don't know how long,' she said. 'And I couldn't sleep. I don't know if it was the nerves or if it was the excitement.'

Swoopes suspects she may have salvaged two hours of sleep amid tossing and turning. After peeking at a clock around 3 a.m., she cued up a movie on a laptop computer resting on her bed.

'I don't even know what the movie was,' she said. 'I turned it on and thought it might help me fall asleep, but it didn't work.'

So, Swoopes was simultaneously tired and un-retired (though she never officially retired from the WNBA) when she reported to the University of Tulsa for a workout that lasted about two and a half hours.

Afterward, Swoopes got in extra shooting and sat down briefly before talking with reporters about her comeback.

Swoopes said she initially wondered - blame a little voice in the back of her head - if returning to the WNBA was the correct choice.

And now? 'To be able to get through the type of practice that I just got through definitely reinforced that I'm doing the right thing,' she said.

Swoopes said she felt better than she thought she would after practice No. 1.

Give partial credit to pre-camp preparation (she wanted to get acclimated to coach Nolan Richardson's full-court system) and give partial credit to Swoopes pulling a veteran stunt.

An explanation: She said prep work was 'a lot harder because it was just me and one other person. Out here, there are about 15 of us, so when I am tired, I just kind of pull the rookies in front of me and say 'You go, you go, you go. Let me rest a little bit.' '

Richardson said he thinks Swoopes, who played overseas in 2010, still has 'it.' He said 40-year-old Taj McWilliams-Franklin 'killed us' last season.

'I think it's all about how healthy they are,' the coach said. ' (Swoopes') back was a problem. Hopefully that's all straightened out. The rest of it is just getting back into the rhythm of the game and, the way we play, we are not counting on her to play 35 minutes.

'We don't want her to play 30 or 25 minutes. If she can give us 17 to 20 minutes of good minutes, that's superb.'

Richardson challenged all his players to get their bodies and minds in shape. Do that, he said, and the rest will take care of itself.

Rest? After the first practice, Swoopes intended to go back to her room and catch up on sleep.

Following is a camp roster for the Tulsa Shock, which began preseason workouts Sunday:
Miranda Ayim
Elizabeth Cambage
Amber Holt
Tiffany Jackson
Marion Jones
Jennifer Lacy
Ivory Latta
Betty Lennox
Italee Lucas
Rashanda McCants
Darxia Morris
Kayla Pedersen
Chastity Reed
Andrea Riley
Sheryl Swoopes
Juanita Ward

Notable dates
Preseason opener: May 29 at Seattle
Regular season opener: June 4 at San Antonio
Home opener: June 10 vs. San Antonio

Courtesy of www.tulsaworld.com

Silver Stars sign Clark - by Eurobasket News
The Silver Stars signed forward Alysha Clark (5'10''-F-87, college: Middle Tenn.St.) to a contract, coach and general manager Dan Hughes said. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Clark, a 5-foot-10 forward, was selected by the Silver Stars with the 17th pick in the 2010 WNBA Draft. The former Middle Tennessee State standout was one of the final two players waived by the team during last years preseason.

A standout at Middle Tennessee State, Clark led Division I in scoring in both her junior and senior seasons. She averaged 23.2 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 2.1 steals during her collegiate career.

Courtesy of www.mysanantonio.com

Familiar faces as Sun prepare to open WNBA season - by Eurobasket News
There is not much new about the Connecticut Sun this season, certainly not enough to distinguish it from last year's 17-17 team that didn't make the playoffs for the second straight season.

That's the way coach Mike Thibault wanted it. He had one of the league's youngest teams in 2011 and watched the Sun go through significant growing pains, particularly on the road.

Instead of acting on his frustration, Thibault elected patience, betting that the potential of 2010 would morph into the promise of better things this season.

'You have to be that way,' Thibault said Monday. 'If you make the decision in the first place to build a young team, then you are obligated to see it through. The overall picture was that [the players] had to have some time together.

'I told someone today that if everyone had judged the Miami Heat after 34 games [this season], people would have said, 'I don't know if this stuff is working. But now they are at 90 games and everyone is saying it's a helluva team.'

So if you are looking for things new and improved, the Sun debuted two key new components Monday before participating in their first scrimmage at Mohegan Sun Arena.

Guard Kalana Greene (5'10''-G-87, college: Connecticut), the former UConn standout, was acquired from the New York Liberty for Sydney Colson, the 2011 second-round pick from national champion Texas A&M.

And swing Danielle McCray (5'11''-G/F-87, college: Kansas) will make her debut after missing her rookie season with a knee injury. The Sun thought so much of McCray they took the Kansas Jayhawk in the first round, even though they knew she wouldn't play.

Both players will help the Sun's perimeter defense and should provide welcomed scoring options.

Other than that, the Sun look the same, which will begin to become apparent when they open the exhibition season against the Chinese National Team at Mohegan Sun Arena Thursday night at 7.

There aren't many jobs available on the 11-player roster, though there will be no need to open a roster spot for Sandrine Gruda, who is working out with the French national team and is not expected to return to the Sun, Thibault said Monday.

Of course, not all was lost last season. Center Tina Charles, UConn's national player of the year in 2009-10, was the WNBA rookie of the year and set rebounding (398) and double-double (22) single-season records.

But the need to build around her is great. That will begin with point guard Renee Montgomery (5'7''-G-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut), the former UConn All-American. She will be depended on, along with veteran Kara Lawson, to steady and offense that turned the ball over too many times last season.

This winter, Montgomery played in Israel where the focus was on enhancing her scoring ability.

'I'm glad the organization didn't make a lot of changes,' Montgomery said. 'I'm happy with the patience the coaching staff has shown. Many times when you don't make the playoffs people go into panic mode to just change stuff. We lost five games in the final possessions, so we had the ability. They added a couple of extra pieces [in Greene and McCray] so who knows how far we can go.'

Forward Kelsey Griffin, the third overall pick in the 2010 draft and fresh from a winter in Hungary, is back and seemingly much more relaxed for her second season.

'Playing there helped me become more of a versatile player,' Griffin said. 'It helped me improve many of the things Coach Thibault wanted me to work on. I needed to learn to relax, take a breath, don't take myself nearly as seriously. I constantly felt the need to prove myself last year, to justify to everyone that I deserved to be drafted where I was.'

Courtesy of www.courant.com

New York Liberty sign Crystal Kelly - by Eurobasket News
The New York Liberty has signed fourth year player Cristal Kelly (6'3''-F-86, college: W.Kentucky), it was announced today by Head Coach and General Manager John Whisenant. As per team policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

'Crystal is a tough player that will provide us with additional rebounding strength,' Whisenant said. 'Having coached her in Sacramento, she knows the system we will be playing this season and can quickly step in and make a difference.'

Kelly was most recently on the San Antonio Silver Stars who renounced their exclusive negotiating rights with her last week. The 6-2 forward was selected by the Houston Comets as the No. 31 overall pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft . The Comets waived Kelly in 2008 but she was quickly picked up by the Sacramento Monarchs . In her rookie year, Kelly registered 7.4 ppg while grabbing 3.3 rpg. She was later traded to the Detroit Shock for one season and then moved on to the San Antonio Silver Stars in 2010. Kelly currently owns a career 4.8 ppg and 2.1 rpg.

At Western Kentucky University, Kelly broke the WKU women's basketball program record for career rebounds, and placed in the top 25 career scorers with 2,600 points. Kelly was named to the all-Sun Belt Conference team during each of her four collegiate seasons, and was named the 2008 Sun Belt Player of the Year.

Liberty fans will be able to watch the team in action at the regular season home-opener against the Indiana Fever at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey on Saturday, June 11 at 7pm. The team also has preseason games on Wednesday, May 25 against the Washington Mystics at the Prudential Center and on Friday, May 27 against the China National Team at the Times Union Center in Albany, New York

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com