Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/20/2011

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Men News

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ANGOLA

BAI Basket - Final four - Day 7 - by Antonio Santos
Petro x Libolo: 94 x 89 (48 x 41)

Libolo: Domingos Bonifcio (18), Olmpio Cipriano (19), Edson Ndoniema (10), Mayzer Alexandre (09), Abdel Bouckar (04), Simo Santos (00), Leonel Paulo (09), Abdel Gomes (00), Reggie Moore (09), Feliciano Camacho (00), Milton Barros (11), Edgar Chocolate (00) Coach: Ral Duarte

Petro de Luanda: Bralio Morais (03), Roderick Nealy (16), Roberto Fortes (16), Paulo Barros (03), Paulo Santana (03), Miguel Kiala (05), Cedrick Ison (19), Hlder Gonalves (00), Wlademir Pontes (00), Divaldo Mbunga (11), Idelfonso Kiteculo (00), Carlos Morais (18) Coach: Alberto Babo.

Referees: Carlos Jlio, Fernando Pacheco e David Pacheco

Final scores from day 7th

Interclube X 1 de Agosto 101-90
Libolo X Petro de Luanda 94-89

Standings after game 7

1 - Petro de Luanda; 14 pt

2 - Interclube; 10 pt

3 - Libolo; 10 pt

4 - 1 de Agosto; 09 pt

BAI Basket - Final Four - Day 6th - by Antonio Santos
Petro won is 6 game and no lost and hes the best team at the end of 2nd round of the Final Four of BAI Basket.

Libolo x Inter : 85x 72 (42 x 35)

Libolo: Domingos Bonifcio (02), Olmpio Cipriano (06), Francisco Sousa (00), Edson Ndoniema (02), Mayzer Alexandre (09), Abdel Bouckar (03), Simo Santos (12), Leonel Paulo (20), Abdel Gomes (02), Feliciano Camacho (01), Milton Barros (15) e Edgar Chocolate (00). Coach: Raul Duarte
Interclube: Edmundo Ventura (00), Wilson da Mata (02), Eduardo Mingas (12), Simo Panzo (03), Jorge Taty (12), Muamba Ilunga (05), Lifelu Selenge (02), Lus Costa (08), Francisco Machado (12), Euclides Camacho (15), Shaanon Crooks (10) e Joaquim Xavier (07). Coach: Jos Carlos Guimares.
Referees: David Manuel, Mbunga Pedro e Francisco Pacheco

Petro x 1 De Agosto: 106 x 88 (47 x 41)

Petro de Luanda: Yuri Swingue (00), Braulio Morais (07), Roderick Nealy (20), Roberto Fortes (08), Paulo Barros (00), Paulo Santana (16), Miguel Kiala (15), Hlder Gonalves (00), Vlademir Pontes (02), Divaldo Mbunga (06), Idelfonso Kiteculo (05), Carlos Morais (27). Coach: Alberto Babo
1 de Agosto: Filipe Abrao (00), Armando Costa (04), Adilson Baza (05), Mrio Correia (25), Kikas Gomes (16), Felizardo Ambrsio (09), Vlademir Ricardino (08), Hlder Ortet (00), Adolfo Quimbamba (05), Carlos Almeida (05), Miguel Lutonda (06), Karlton Mims (05). Coach: Lus Magalhes
Referees: Carlos Jlio, Antnio Bernardo e Iracelmo Pinto

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ARAB CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Standings

Arab Club Championships Standings

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

Gharrafah upset Riyadi in Abu Dhabi - by Eurobasket News
Riyadi - Gharrafah 66:70

Gharrafah recorded the second straight win at the Arab Club Championship in Abu Dhabi. Today they upset two-time defending champions Riaydi of Lebanon to climb on top of the ladder in Group A. Boney Watson (183-G, college: Sam Houston St.) stepped up with 19 points, 5 boards and 5 assists to lead the effort. Riaydi fell at 1-1 record after the loss.
Gharrafah opened the game confidently as they registered a 20:17 lead after ten minutes. Riaydi took over in the second frame. The Lebanese powerhouse surged ahead to enjoy a 39:31 halftime lead. Riyadi maintained the advantage throughout the third stanza. The Lebanese side entered the final stanza up by 7 points 58:51. But Gharrafah held their opponents to just 8 points in the fourth term and celebrated quite unexpected win at the end. Ousseynou N'Diaye (195-G/F-85, agency: Court Side) knocked down 16 points, while Omar Salem (190-G) finished with 14 points in the win. Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) replied with 15 points and 12 rebounds for Riyadi. Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) netted 11 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and issued 7 assists in the loss.

Riyadi: Loren Woods 15+12 boards, Ahmad Ismail 11
Gharrafah: Boney Watson 19, Ousseynou N'Diaye 16, Omar Salem 14

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ARGENTINA

Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game

Joseph BUNN
  Argentino
  (198-F/C-75)
  Avg: 20

1. Bunn, Argentino	20.0
2. Jackson, La Union	19.4
3. Johnson, Monte H.	16.8
4. Meyinsse, Club 9	16.6
5. Lo Grippo, Quimsa	16.5
6. Gutierrez, Obras	16.4
7. Gutierrez, Penarol	15.1
8. Taylor, Lanus	15.0
9. Galindo, Libertad	14.9
10. Salles, Monte H.	14.9

Rebounds Per Game

Ruben GARCES
  La Union
  (206-C/F-73)
  Avg: 11

1. Garces, La Union	11.0
2. Gutierrez, Obras	10.0
3. Kammerichs, Regat.	9.8
4. Battle, Libertad S.	9.1
5. Rollins, Gimnasia.	8.7
6. Williams, Atenas	8.2
7. Johnson, Monte H.	8.0
8. Kante, Olimpico LB	7.9
9. Leiva, Penarol	7.4
10. Bucknor, Club 9	7.3

Assists Per Game

Pepe SANCHEZ
  Estudian.
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Sanchez, Estudian.	6.9
2. Martinez, Regat.	5.7
3. Labaque, Atenas	5.0
4. Salles, Monte H.	4.8
5. Ginobili, Libertad	4.1
6. Cequeira, Obras	4.0
7. Franco, Sionista	3.7
8. Treise, Quimsa	3.2
9. Victoriano, Lanus	3.0
10. Sartorelli, Argen.	2.9

Steals Per Game

Pepe SANCHEZ
  Estudian.
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Sanchez, Estudian.	3.3
2. Sciutto, Monte H.	2.6
3. Martinez, Regat.	2.6
4. Salles, Monte H.	2.5
5. Labaque, Atenas	2.4
6. Cequeira, Obras	2.4
7. Okosa, Gimnasia CR	2.3
8. Williams, Atenas	2.3
9. Moodie, Boca Jrs	2.2
10. Selleaze, Liberta.	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Battle, Libertad S.	1.9
2. Roe, Regatas C.	1.3
3. Johnson, Monte H.	1.3
4. Meyinsse, Club 9	1.3
5. Gutierrez, Obras	1.1
6. Kammerichs, Regat.	1.1
7. Williams, Atenas	1.0
8. Alston, Boca Jrs	1.0
9. Tintorelli, Quimsa	0.8
10. Aguerre, Estudian.	0.8

Panamerican games: first camp - by Facundo Iatzky
CABB released the list of 18 players that will start to train on July 25 in Resistencia. he 2011 panamerican games will be played in Guadalajara, Mexico in October. The coach is Enrique Tolcachier and the players are the following:
Luis Cequeira (180-G-85)
Juan Pablo Figueroa (184-G-86, agency: Interperformances)
Juan Fernandez (193-G-90)
Nicolas Laprovittola (191-G-90)
Luciano Gonzalez (196-F-90)
Miguel Gerlero (192-G-88)
Alexis Elsener (196-G-88)
Juan Emiliano Fernandez (196-G/F-91)
Marcos Mata (202-F-86)
Nicolas Lauria (202-F-88)
Pablo Espinoza (195-F-87)
Matias Sandes (201-F/G-84)
Nicolas Romano (197-F/C-87)
Matias Bortolin (205-C-93, agency: Interperformances)
Marcos Delia (207-C-92)
Leonardo Mainoldi (204-F-85)
Alejandro Alloatti (203-F/C-84)
Julian Aprea (208-C-87)

LigaA: Penarol and Atenas to meet in the Finals - by Eurobasket News
Penarol and Atenas swept their rivals with perfect 3-0 in the Semis and they will fight for the LigaA title. Penarol handed 86-95 home loss to Penarol in Game Three, while Atenas was too strong for Quimsa 82-89 also on the road. The Finals will start on May 29. The format is best-of-seven (2-2-1-1-1).

Libertad S. - Penarol 86-95 (0-3)
The guests trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 27-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Penarol dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Libertad Sunchales' 18. It was a great evening for American guard Kyle Lamonte (191-84, college: William Carey, agency: KMG Sports Management) who led his team to a victory scoring 29 points and 6 rebounds (on 12-of-15 shooting from the field). The former international power forward Martin Leiva (208-80) helped adding 16 points and 11 rebounds. Lamonte is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Penarol's coach Sergio Hernandez used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was forward Alexander David Galindo (198-85, college: FIU) with 23 points and 6 rebounds and international guard Juan Pablo Cantero (184-82) scored 14 points and 4 assists. Five Penarol and four Libertad Sunchales players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Libertad S.: A.David Galindo 23+6reb, R.Gabini 17+1reb+1ast, J.Pablo Cantero 14+3reb+4ast, R.Selleaze 12+3reb+2ast, R.Wolkowyski 10+5reb+1ast, S.Ginobili 5+2reb+4ast
Penarol: K.Lamonte 29+6reb+3ast, P.Sebastian Rodriguez 16+1reb+5ast, M.Leiva 16+11reb+1ast, S.Safar 11+2reb, L.Gutierrez 10+7reb+2ast, M.Fierro 9

Quimsa - Atenas 82-89 (0-3)
Quimsa trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 26-18 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 82-89 at the end of the game. Atenas made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game. Atenas outrebounded Quimsa 34-17 including a 25-9 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great evening for American forward Gregory Lewis (198-78, college: Winthrop, agency: Dream Team Management) who led his team to a victory scoring 29 points and 6 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). His fellow American import power forward James Williams (204-79, college: Brown Mackie, agency: Dream Team Management) helped adding 18 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was the former international forward Diego Lo Grippo (198-78) with 24 points and Panamanian forward Dionisio Gomez Camargo (203-80, college: Arkansas) scored 19 points and 5 rebounds. Quimsa's coach Carlos Romano rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Quimsa: D.Lo Grippo 24+2reb+1ast, D.Gomez Camargo 19+5reb+2ast, A.Marin 12+2ast, D.Cavaco 9+1reb+1ast, J.Treise 5+1reb+1ast, N.Aguirre 4+3reb+7ast
Atenas: G.Lewis 29+6reb+1ast, J.Williams 18+8reb+3ast, M.Lescano 14+6reb+3ast, D.Gerbaudo 7+1reb+1ast, J.Manuel Rivero 6+4reb+2ast, M.Garcia 5+3reb

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BELGIUM

Charleroi edged by Maccabi Tel Aviv in friendly (83-87) - by Bert Larsimont

It was an excellent friendly game last night as TEC Spirou Charleroi played Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv while the first round of the Belgian Ethias League play-offs is well under way. Spirou Head Coach Giovanni Bozzi must be happy to have seen his players well concentrated and spirited to face the very physical Israeli team.

The Euroleague finalists started well and quickly took a 5-13 lead but the home team, led by freshly elected 2011 Ethias League MVP Demond Mallet (185-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St., two three-pointers in a row) reacted well with a 13-0 run. Despite a great presence of Maccabi's 'Baby Shaq' Schortsanitis, Andre Riddick (205-C-73, college: Kentucky) did a great job at the rebound and helped Spirou to stay in front at the end of the first quarter: 22-17. Maccabi players came back step by step: 30-29 after 15 minutes and 37-43 at the half. Spirou forward Sacha Massot (204-F/C-83, agency: LBM Management) had an excellent second quarter with 6 points and 3 rebounds. Thanks to the fantastic job done by Maccabi's guard Jeremy Pargo (188-PG-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga, 6 assists in this game), the Israeli side took a larger lead after the break: 37-47. Boosted by Weaver, Wright and Gomis, Spirou came back at 53-53. A few minutes later, the scoreboard showed 58-68 but Bozzi's men still recovered and came closer at 68-70 with just five minutes to play in the last quarter. Schortsanitis and Eidson controlled the air and kept grabbing important rebounds (7 each). Last efforts by Dwayne Broyles (196-F/G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: JMU) and Kyle Weaver (198-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Washington St.) were not enough and Spirou lost 83-87 after a good scrimmage game. Also to be mentioned, Greene and Jadin, both injured, have not played. The first Ethias League play-off game for Spirou will be played next Tuesday against the winner of the Telenet Oostende vs. Antwerp Giants round one series.

Best scorers last night:

Spirou -- Weaver 9, Gomis 9, Broyles 10, Wright 13, Mallet 14 and Beghin 9.
Maccabi -- Pargo 16, Eliyahu 10, Eidson 14 and Schortsanitis 21.

Mons edges Oostende in thrilling 2011 Belgian Cup Final - by Bert Larsimont

Union Mons Hainaut has won the Belgian Cup today. In a very thrilling final game played at the Lotto Arena in Antwerp, Union Mons Hainaut defeated defending Cup winner BC Oostende 68-66.

After a well balanced first quarter, Union Mons Hainaut of Coach Arik Shivek (agency: Avi Zilberman) took a larger lead of ten points (31-21) but Matt Lojeski (198-G-85, college: Hawaii) led Oostende to a fantastic comeback mainly thanks to great hits from the three-point range.

After the half (33-33), BC Oostende ran down the floor at a higher speed and did shoot with more efficiency. The Northern Belgian team even took a 6-point advantage at the end of the third quarter (50-56).

In the final seconds of this very intense match-up, Oostende turned the ball over and the Foxes of Mons Hainaut took advantage of that. With around 30 seconds left on the clock, the game was tied at 66-66. With 14 seconds remaining, Mons' forward Ronell Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) hit a jumper to make 68-66. Oostende's center Will Thomas (200-F-86, agency: Interperformances) missed two crucial free-throws with a bit more than one second remaining on the clock but the rebound was missed by the Mons' players. After a last time-out taken by BCO Head Coach Jean-Marc Jaumin , the last BCO jump shot attempted by Matt Lojeski on a alley-oop was not successful and the 2000 fans of Mons Hainaut who travelled to Antwerp to attend the Cup final could party as their favourite team won the title. Union Mons Hainaut had already won the Cup in 2006 while Oostende had already won the Cup 12 times.

BCO center Thomas Van Den Spiegel (214-C-78), bothered by a back injury, played only three minutes in this game.

Best scorers for Union Mons Hainaut: Ronell Taylor 16; Shan Foster (198-G/F-86, college: Vanderbilt) 13; Justin Cage (198-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Xavier) 11; Ahmad Nivins (206-F-87, agency: Impact Basketball, college: St.Joseph's) 10.
Best scorers for BC Oostende: Matt Lojeski 16; Darrel Mitchell (180-G-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: LSU) 10; Veselin Petrovic (196-G/F-77, agency: Beo Basket) 10.

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Stefon JACKSON
  Verviers.
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 16.3

1. Jackson, Verviers.	16.3
2. Freeman, Verviers.	15.9
3. Black, Antwerp	15.7
4. Mallet, Charleroi	15.7
5. Taylor, M.Hainaut	15.4
6. Lojeski, Oostende	15.4
7. Copeland, Aalstar	15.2
8. Waters, Verviers.	15.0
9. Miller, Leuven	14.8
10. Hilliard, Aalstar	14.6

Rebounds Per Game

Rashaun FREEMAN
  Verviers.
  (206-C/F-84)
  Avg: 8

1. Freeman, Verviers.	8.0
2. Young, Aalstar	7.5
3. Stipanovic, Liege	7.4
4. Randle, Gent	7.3
5. Hilliard, Aalstar	7.3
6. Gay, Verviers-Pep.	6.4
7. Brown, Antwerp	6.3
8. Jackson, Verviers.	6.3
9. Tofi, Leuven	6.0
10. Dagunduro, Leuven	5.8

Assists Per Game

Darrel MITCHELL
  Oostende
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 3.9

1. Mitchell, Oostende	3.9
2. Hatten, M.Hainaut	3.7
3. Dagunduro, Leuven	3.6
4. Waters, Verviers.	3.4
5. Moors, Antwerp	2.9
6. Bosco, Gent	2.9
7. Black, Antwerp	2.9
8. Burrell, Aalstar	2.7
9. Miller, Leuven	2.6
10. Mallet, Charleroi	2.5

Steals Per Game

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

1. Jenkins, Liege	2.8
2. Hatten, M.Hainaut	2.5
3. Mallet, Charleroi	2.2
4. Wilson, Antwerp	2.2
5. Dagunduro, Leuven	2.1
6. Mitchell, Oostende	1.8
7. Taylor, M.Hainaut	1.7
8. McCauley, M.Hai.	1.6
9. Bosco, Gent	1.5
10. Hill, Charleroi	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Mejri, Antwerp	1.5
2. Riddick, Charleroi	1.5
3. Johnson, Aalstar	0.9
4. Young, Aalstar	0.8
5. Randle, Gent	0.8
6. Tofi, Leuven	0.6
7. Wilson, Antwerp	0.6
8. Nivins, M.Hainaut	0.5
9. Pelle, Oostende	0.5
10. Freeman, Verviers.	0.4

Mallet MVP of Belgium Ethias League - by Eurobasket
Today Demond Mallet (185-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) was named the MVP of the Belgium Ethias League after leading his club past the Euroleague qualification round and into the Euroleague where the club had 2 impressive wins against Real Madrid and the player's former German club Brose Basket. Mallet then led the Spirou Club to its' best regular season record of 25-7 in some time. Mallet is currently ranking 4th in scoring and 10th in assists and 3rd in steals. Mallet is hoping to finish the season off with a Belgium Championship which won't be easy. Spirou who received a bye for having the best record in the league is awaiting now their semi-final opponent.

College News - by Peter Buyse
Thomas De Thaey (197-F-91), a member of the Belgian U20 national team signed a letter of intent to play college ball at the University of North Carolina State of of the 2011-2012 season.
At the last Euro B Championships the power forward averaged 18.4 ppg and 6.8 rpg. In the past he was also part of the Belgian U16 and U18 National teams.
Thomas spent the 2010-2011 season at the Canarias Basketball Academy in Gran Canaria.

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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. Kolev, Cherno More	6.9
5. Peterson, Lukoil A.	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.	3.5
9. Gruev, Rilski S.	3.3
10. Zahariev, Chernom.	3.2

Steals Per Game

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

1. Crowe, Levski	2.4
2. Heath, Lukoil A.	2.2
3. Zahariev, Chernomo.	2.1
4. Bozov, Balkan	1.9
5. James, Lukoil A.	1.9
6. Radionov, Tundja	1.8
7. Green, Lukoil A.	1.7
8. Bowman, Lukoil A.	1.6
9. Marinov, Balkan	1.6
10. Finzgar, Tundja	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. Banev, Lukoil A.	0.6
7. Yanev, Cherno More	0.6
8. Petkov, Tundja	0.6
9. Vaklinov, Rilski S.	0.6
10. Iliev, Cherno More	0.6

NBL: Lukoil Academik joins Levski in the Finals - by Eurobasket News
Semifinals, Game 4: Rilski Sportist - Lukoil Academik 83-90 (1-3)

Lukoil Academik failed in Game Three in Samokov, but last night managed to beat their host Rilski Sportist 83-90 winning the series with almost perfect 3-1. It means that Lukoil Academik and Levski will once again fight for the title in Bulgarian NBL. Lukoil is the defending champion and they are regular season champs as well. The series is best-of-five with the first meeting scheduled for May 24 (2-2-1).
The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 46-36 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Lukoil Academik dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Rilski Sportist's 26. 25 personal fouls committed by Rilski Sportist helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Travis Peterson (208-85, college: Samford, agency: Edge Sports) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 6 rebounds and the other American import guard Brandon Heath (193-84, college: San Diego St.) who added 18 points and 5 assists during the contest. At the losing side international swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88) responded with 21 points and 4 assists and FYR Macedonian guard Dimitar Karadzovski (189-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) scored 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Rilski Sportist players scored in double figures.

Top scorers:
Rilski Sportist: I.Lilov 21+4reb+4ast, L.Kirov 16+2reb, D.Karadzovski 16+5reb+4ast, A.Gruev 11+2reb+4ast, V.Mijovic 9+9reb+3ast, A.Radojevic 6+7reb
Lukoil Academik: T.Peterson 21+6reb+2ast, T.Stoykov 20+2reb+1ast, B.Heath 18+1reb+5ast, T.Banev 8+3reb, D.Green 7+2reb+1ast, B.Avramov 7+7reb+5ast

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CANADA

Volcanoes hold off Olympia Reign for win - by Eurobasket News
Andre Murry had 28 points and five assists and Devin Uskoski (198-C-85, college: Rocky Mountain) had 18 points and 16 rebounds as the Vancouver Volcanoes took command in the third quarter and held on for a 116-100 International Basketball League win over the Olympia Reign on Tuesday at The Evergreen State College.

Olympia led 49-42 at halftime before Vancouvers 39-23 burst in the third quarter.

Brad Lechtenberg (188-G-81, college: San Diego) scored 19 points, Lawrence Blackledge (203-F-86, college: Marquette) had 16, Kevin Bloodsaw (194-G/F-72, college: Ozarks) added 15 and Brian Morris had 12.

Uskoski was 10 of 10 from the free throw line.

Nate Menefee scored a game-high 32 points for the Reign, and Bennard Abraham had 24 points and 12 rebounds.

Courtesy of www.columbian.com

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CHILE

Copa Chile Playoffs preview - by Cristian Quiroga
This weekend begins Copa Chile Playoffs. After Groups round in which participated 35 teams (7 groups), first, second and third plus best fourth-place teams qualified to the post-season.
After a quite complicated system of clasification, Febachile announced couples that will start playing playoffs first round this weekend.
Couples are:
Liceo Mixto (1) vs Sergio Ceppi (24)
Boston College (2) vs Universidad Austral de Valdivia (23)
Osorno Basquetbol (3) vs rabe de Rancagua (22)
Universidad Catolica (4) vs Arturo Prat (21)
CD UdeConce (5) vs Club Alemn (20)
Estadio Espaol (6) vs Pedro Aguirre Cerda (19)
Universidad de Santiago (7) vs Club Palestino (18)
Municipal de Puente Alto (8) vs Las Animas (17)
Estadio Italiano (9) vs Cefiro (16)
Espanol de Talca (10) vs El Sabueso (15)
Club Deportivo Valdivia (11) vs Providencia (14)
Colegio Los Leones (12) vs Universidad de Chile (13)

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

DENMARK

SISU promote Almir Zeco - by Eurobasket News
SISU have decided to promote Almir Zeco . The Bosnian specialist has been named the new head coach of the team. Remind you that previously Almir Zeco worked as coach assistant with SISU. Almir Zeco also worked as head coach with Vogosca in Bosnian League. Almir Zeco had an international coaching experience. He guided the Bosnian U18 and U20 selections.
SISU occupied the sixth position in Canal Digital Ligaen regular season. They later lost Naestved in the quarterfinals. SISU hope to keep the core of the squad for the next season. Mickey Dennis (190-G/F-78, college: JMU), Mikael Nielsen (178-G-90), David Harder (196-G/F-87) and Donald Rutherford (198-F-87, college: Catawba) are expected to remain on the roster in the upcoming season.

BK Amager and Horsens appoint new head coaches - by Eurobasket News
BK Amager have appointed new head coach. Ryan Kombrink signed contract with the team. The deal is meant for two seasons. Ryan Kombrink has previously worked with Stevnsgade from 1999 through 2010. He led the team to Danish League semis in 2001. They also became 1st Division regular season champions in 2010.
In the meantime Horsens also made the change on the bridge. They announced the contract with Arnel Dedic (193-G-76). The Bosnian and Herzegovina specialist just finished the coach training in Croatia. Arnel Dedic played for Horsens back in 2006/09 seasons. Arnel Dedic will be assisted by I.Munoz.

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EGYPT

Egypt and South Africa given wild cards for 2011 AfroBasket - by Eurobasket News
Egypt and South Africa will participate at the 2011 AfroBasket. The teams were given wild cards to join the competition. The tournament will take place in Madagascar from August 17 to 28.
So the pool of sixteen teams is now filled. These are Madagascar, Angola, Cote dIvoire, Tunisia, Cameroon, Morocco, Senegal, Mali, Nigeria, Togo, Central Africa, Chad, Rwanda, Mozambique, Egypt and South Africa. The Draw will be held on June 4 in Antananarivo. The teams will be drawn into four groups with four teams in each.

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FRANCE

Limoges eye Hugo Invernizzi - by Eurobasket News
Limoges have one the top French talents on their radar. The French negotiate possible contract with Hugo Invernizzi (196-F/G-93). The 18-year-old shooting guard spent the previous season in Centre Federal du Basket-Ball in NM1. Hugo Invernizzi also played for French U18 selection at the 2010 European Championship. He tallied 8.7 points and 3.0 boards per game in Vilnius. Earlier Hugo Invernizzi played for U16 selection. Hugo Invernizzi helped INSEP triumph at the Nike International Junior Tournament in 2010. The guard made it to the All-Tournament Team that year. This season INSEP participated at the final round of the tournament in Barcelona. Hugo Invernizzi averaged 15.0 points, 5.3 boards and 3.6 assists per game for INSEP in Spain.

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

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

1. Sonko, Maurienne	19.1
2. Siggers, Rouen	18.8
3. Harris, Lille	18.4
4. Carter, Nanterre	17.0
5. Rouse, Charleville	16.8
6. Milbourne, Boulogne	16.1
7. Davis, Le Portel	15.9
8. Gay, Fos Ouest	15.6
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: 7.9

1. Da Silva, Evreux	7.9
2. Rowland, Le Portel	6.7
3. Patiejunas, Boulo.	5.8
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. Patiejunas, Boulo.	2.2
7. Sonko, Maurienne	2.1
8. Hachad, Fos Ouest	2.1
9. Melody, Dijon	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. Taccoen, Lille	0.9
6. Adjiwanou, Boula.	0.9
7. Davis, Evreux	0.9
8. N''Diaye, Clermont	0.9
9. Daniels, Nanterre	0.9
10. Ford, Clermont	0.7

Parker on the Spurs, chances at another title, playing for France, and more - by Eurobasket News
After a fantastic NBA regular season, the San Antonio Spurs were upset in the first round of the NBA playoffs by the hands of the eighth seeded Memphis Grizzlies.

Now with an early start to his summer vacation, Spurs' Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80), who is currently in France, spoke at a press conference, via sports.fr.

During the press conference, Parker says he is excited to be playing for the French National team this summer but spoke candidly on the Spurs season, the looming NBA lockout, the Spurs chances at another title and more.

Please excuse the rough translation provided by a translator tool.

Parker on the Spurs early playoff elimination:

'I had time to think. It's a big disappointment. I spoke again last week with Pop (Gregg Popovich, Ed),we're all sad and frustrated. Because we made a big season, it dominates, but you lose the first round. There is nothing to say Memphis has played very well. I said early in the season it was perhaps our last chance, that the window was closing, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili were becoming a bit old. There will always be a strong team, but we can not say we play the track. We must be realistic.'

On being mentioned in trade rumors:

'Yes, the past two years. If they have a player trading, that's me. After, Pop told me that I'm not going anywhere. But I know that the NBA is a business, you have to be ready for anything. You never know.'

On if he was serious about playing in France should there be an NBA lockout:

'Let there be no lockout or lockout, I will play for France. I already told Spurs to Pop. I want people to qualify for the Olympics. Based on recent discussions with my agent, there will be locked out in early July, for sure. He is positive, he hopes that does not miss regular-season game. But when you talk with our representative at the Spurs, Matt Bonner, he thinks it'll be long. The last time there was a lockout in 1999, they were resumed in January. I prepare everything.'

'I have already spoken with my agent in France, I asked him to start looking for me an apartment. I'm serious, it's true. I will not play in Bordeaux with Boris Diaw or Spain or Russia. If I play, it will be in France, Asvel. As well enjoy it, my friends can see me play, it might be nice.'

On the insurance issue should he play for France:

'It's a big problem. It is also a problem with the France team, because we have many players who play in the NBA. Moreover, we will soon meet with the people of the Federation and the president (Jean-Pierre Siutat, Ed), because the NBA has announced that it will not pay its share. It should perhaps do with Boris and Joakim, we can get together to try to reach an agreement. We'll see. It's a big sum, I will not pay. No, it depends on how ... '

Courtesy of http://projectspurs.com

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

FYR MACEDONIA

Stats Leaders - Superleague

Points Per Game

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

1. Matic, Kumanovo.	21.5
2. Jovanovic, Ultima.	20.3
3. Trajkovski, Torus	18.0
4. Petkovski, Pelist.	16.8
5. Morban, Lirija	16.4
6. Filipovic, Ovce Po.	16.4
7. Blazevski, Rabotni.	15.6
8. Mirakovski, Rabot.	15.1
9. Nikolovski, MZT S.	14.7
10. Anakievski, Pelis.	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Jovanovic, Ultima.	10.6
2. Pavlovski, Lirija	8.4
3. Nikolovski, MZT S.	8.4
4. Talevski, Pelist.	8.1
5. Trajkovski, Torus	7.8
6. Chappell, ABA S.	7.7
7. Jelesijevic, Torus	7.7
8. Rejnerio, Lirija	7.6
9. Knezevic, Feni I.	7.5
10. Filipovic, Ovce P.	7.1

Assists Per Game

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

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

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

Bojan TRAJKOVSKI
  Torus S.
  (206-C/F-88)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Trajkovski, Torus	1.7
2. Chappell, ABA S.	1.4
3. Jelesijevic, Torus	1.3
4. Dendra, Rabotnicki	1.1
5. Petric, Kumanovo.	1.1
6. Gocevski, Rabotnic.	1.0
7. Simic, Rabotnicki	1.0
8. Krstevski, Torus S.	0.9
9. Frye, Feni Indistr.	0.9
10. Avramovski, MZT S.	0.8

Bojan Trajkovski for three more years in Torus - by Greg
Bojan Trajkovski (206-C/F-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) signed 3-year deal with Torus Engineering Skopje in Macedonia after a great season averaging 18.0ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.7bpg. Bojan will also be a member of the Macedonian National Team.
He can also leave the team outside of Macedonia with a coresponding buy out.

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GERMANY

BSV Muensterland Baskets Wulfen Bring In David Feldmann - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The BSV Muensterland Baskets Wulfen have announced their first new signing for the 2011-2012 PRO B season getting David Feldmann. Feldmann is a 18 year old player that can play the guard and forward position that played for Regionaliga team Bochum Astrostars. He played 3 years for the Phoenix Hagen juniors. Feldmann is happy to be coached by Thorsten Morzuch. 'Thorsten has coached me since the U-12 and knows me very well', added David Feldmann. The club also announced that young germans Thorben Vadder and Tim Gorontzi have been aded to the team. 'All three guys are big talents that I would like to continue to help. They will train with us at ahigh level and will develop', addedcoach Torsten Morzuch.

Source: BSV Muensterland Baskets Wulfen

German National Coach Dirk Bauermann Announces Team For Clinical Diagnostics Acheivement Test - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
With the European Championships only a few months away, German National coach Dirk Bauermann already has to slowly start preparing for this tournament. He has announced the roster for the clinical diagnosics Achievement tests that will be held between June 20-22 in Heidelberg.
Dominik Bahiense de Mello (Deutsche Bank Skyliners)

Robin Benzing (208-F-89) (ratiopharm Ulm)
Per Guenther (ratiopharm Ulm)
Steffen Hamann (FC Bayern Mnchen)
Elias Harris (Gonzaga University)
Johannes Herber (Walter Tigers Tbingen)
Jan-Hendrik Jagla (Trk Telekomspor Ankara)
Christopher McNaughton (EWE Baskets Oldenburg)
Tim Ohlbrecht (Telekom Baskets Bonn)
Tibor Pleiss (Brose Baskets Bamberg)
Heiko Schaffartzik (ALBA Berlin)
Sven Schultze (ALBA Berlin)
Philipp Schwethelm (Eisbren Bremerhaven)
Lucca Staiger (ALBA Berlin)
Konrad Wysocki (Turow Zgorzelec/POL)
Philip Zwiener (TBB Trier)
Niels Giffey (UCONN)

Source: DBB

Alba Berlin Didnt Have Julius Jenkins, But Many Many Many Unsung Heros Outlasting The Deutsche Bank Skyliners 81-80 In Game 1 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
For basketball fans waiting for the lovable Shaq to make a free throw, waiting for a winner between the Oklahoma Thunder and The Memphis Grizzlies in one of their playoff games which took three overtime periods, actor Robert de Niro choosing society girl Paris Hilton as his next love interest in a movie or Tom Brady finally taking a hint from teenage heartthrob Justin Bieber to finally cut his wild, long and out of control haircut feels like an eternity, but waiting 10 days during the always exciting playoff time for the next opponent for The Deutsche Bank Skyliners was long enough for Skyliner guard Jimmy Mckinney to sneak back to St Louis and do a cameo in a Nelly interview, current Skyliner MVP Dashaun Wood to go on the road with his MVP trophy and do public speaking on how to win a coveted award like that and Skyliner energy bundle Quantez Robertson could of secretly fled back to Cincinnati to conduct a playground street ball dunk contest with friend Mark Dorris and nobody would have noticed. Despite all this free time and temptation, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were all present for game one with less game rhythm against 8 time beko BBL champion Alba Berlin and were as ready as Derrick Rose was for Lebron and The Miami Heat in game one, mountain climber Apa Sherpa climbing to the peak of Mount Everest a record 21 times or Roger Federer getting more competition form the young guns like Nadal and Djokovic as The Deutsche Bank Skyliners never gave up, but lost the game in the last seconds on account of a loose ball falling 81-80 in game one of the beko BBL semi finals against Alba Berlin. 'Having such a long rest can be good or bad. WE were fresh were able to prepare well for the opponent, but we didnt have game rhythm like Alba Berlin. One may hae thought that they may be tired after a long series against Oldenburg, but they were not tired in game one', stressed Skyliner forward Kimmo Muurinen. 'The 10 day rest didnt hurt Frankfurt at all. They worked hard in this game. A long lay off can work for or against you, but Frankfurt has a great coach and players and this game could of gone either way', stressed Alba Berlin guard Bryce Taylor.

One German basketball legend that is still roaming arenas in the beko BBL is ex North Carolina Tar heel and German national player Ademola Okulaja that once played for Alba Berlin and now works as a basketball TV analyst for Sport 1 and was rather surprised that Alba Berlin didnt shut down Oldenburg earlier to reach the series against Frankfurt. 'After Alba Berlin was up 2-0, I was sure that they would win the series at least 3-1. But you have to give Oldenburg credit, the yhave very good players and a good coach. But the problem continues to be their consistency. They have good games or bad games like in Goettingen recently. But Alba Berlin also are stronger with their aggressive defense and more fast break hoops. They also seem to have more freedom in their decision making under new coach Muli Katzurin. Getting more easier baskets also has helped the team', added Ademola Okulaja. Alba Belrin was able to beat The Deutsche Bank Skyliners for the second straight time without star shooter Julius Jenkins, but they were helped by many many many unsung heros that stepped up when needed. 'The big winner under the new coach ahs been Bryce Taylor. I would love to know what his stats were before and after the coaching change. His energy and athletic play is his biggest strength. Taylor Rochestie also has been a big factor. He isnt that consistent and doesnt always make the best decisions, but I dont think that he is 100% a point guard either. Miro Raduljica has played great and when do you see a 213cm 120 kilo guy move like a forward and pass like a point guard? Alba Berlin has so many added weapons and unsung heros that now in crunchtime, you dont have to give the ball to Jenkins, but have so many other options', stressed Ademola Okulaja.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners won many tough games this season, but losing game one 81-80 on a loose ball in the last 15 seconds is a loss that might take some time to digest, but coach Gordon Herbert will have to find a way to get his guys ready for game two as quickly as possible. As the buzzer sounded two Serbs were in their arms as Tadija Dragcevic and MiroRaduljica were hugging each other while Skyliner players had long faces and that last play dancing in their heads on rewind mode. 'To loose by one point to a tough team like Alba Belrin is very tough to take in. Both teams played hard, but they made their free throws and three pointers which was important', stressed Skyliner guard Quantez Robertson. ExSkyliner Derrick Allen had a big grin on his face after the game and despite the big win, he was calm and cool and not celebrating after the win, because he had a lot of respect for his ex club. 'This was an unbelievable win for us. Frankfurt showed great charachter in that whenever they were down, they got up and came back. Mckinney and De Mello played great, but we did different things on Wood which helped us get the win', stressed Alba Berlin forward Derrick Allen. 'I expect all games to be like this one. It was a dog fight and one ball can decide the game. I think that with a little more defense and rebounds and we would of won this game', added Skyliner guard Dashaun Wood. 'This was a typical dog fight playoff game. Both teams played hard and it didnt look pretty, but both teams wanted to win very badly, but one heart was left on the court', commented ex Telekom Baskets Bonn guard Bryce Taylor.

It is always interesting to see what is happening on and off the court before game time in the Ballsporthalle. Derrick Allen chants were heard early in warm ups, Telekom Baskets Bonn coach was using his free time to take in the game, Heiko Schaffartzik spent a lot of time in the stands getting focused for the game and the Skyliner organization had some special masks made for the game possibly as help for Alba Berlin to hide their heads after a loss for them, but at the end of the game, no Alba Berlin players needed any masks to sneak out of the arena. The first quarter gave a lot of good basketball for the fans as offense was in the focus and no team was able to break away. There were 7 lead changes and Alba Berlin quickly took the 4-2 lead as Derrick Allen scored on the transition. Frankfurt got much needed support from Dominik Bahiense De Mello who dropped a three pointer and gave Frankfurt the first 5-4 lead. Allen and De Mello then traded buckets as Frankfurt still led 8-6. Alba Berlin displayed quickly that they would not shy away from banging the ball inside as Yassin Idbihi made a left handed lay in and Bryce Taylor snuck past Wood and went hard over Chris Moss for the hoop as Alba Berlin led 10-8. De Mello then made his third three pointer in a row and Taylor Rochestie also nailed one from outside as Alba Berlin still led 12-11. Alba Berlin then held the lead until the end as the tempo remained high and both teams continued hitting their shots at a sound rate. Alba Belrin then went on a 6-2 run to lead 20-15 as Alba Berlin got added easy buckets inside twice from Idbihi. However Frankfurt closed out the first quarter with a 5-2 run as Wood who ahd been pretty tired until the end nailed a three pointer and got lay in as Frankfurt trailed only 22-20 after one quarter. 'I was surprised how well both teams were scoring. There had been only two fouls and the game was fast paced. We gave up too many easy rebounds', stressed Alba Berlin sports director Mithat Demirel. Alba Berlin was shooting 61% form the field and 0% from outside while The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 47% from the field and 57% from outside. Alba Berlin had the 8-6 rebounding edge and two turnovers while Frankfurt had four turnovers.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners jumped out on a quick 4-0 run to retake the lead 24-22 with Marius Nolte free throws and a Jimmy Mckinney jumper, but Alba Berlin stayed calm and stepped up their offense going on a 10-0 run to lead 32-24. Serb Miro Raduljica continued to out muscle Moss and nolte getting buckets inside while Dragcevic and Heiko Schaffartzik nailed open three pointers. Frankfurt lost some concentration on defense allowing more open looks to Alba Berlin. After Immanuel McElroy (193-G-80, college: Cincinnati) and De Mello traded three pointers, Alba Berlin still led 35-29, but Frankfurt stepped up their defense and got consecutive steals from Quantez Robertson and Chris Moss which led to fast break points from both guys as Frankfurt trailed only 37-33. Frankfurt continued to stay on the heels of Alba Berlin trailing only 39-37 at halftime as Jimmy Mckinney nailed another jumper this time shortly before time elapsed. 'The Frankfurt rebounding kept them in the game. I thought that we were defending well and had good ball movement on offense. Mcelroy and Schaffartzik also did a good job on Wood, but I was sure that Wood would get stronger in the second half', stressed ex German national player Mithat Demirel. Alba Berlin was shooting 54% from the field and 43% from the three point line while The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 38% from the field and 43% from the three point line. Both teams had 16 rebounds, but Alba Berlin eight turnovers and Frankfurt only seven turnovers.

In the third quarter the game remained close and exciting as The Deutsche Bank Skyliners continued to chip away at Alba Berlin never letting them get on a roll and get a bigger lead. After ex BG Goettingen guard Taylor Rochestie nailed a three pointer, Frankfurt went on a lightening 4-0 run as Super Tez Robertson and Roger Powell scored twice on the fast break as Frankfurt trailed only 42-41. Derrick Allen then made a sweet spin move around Wood coming form the wing and making a hrd runner and De Mello sunk a jumper after moving to his left as Frankfurt only trailed 44-43. Then the game was presented with 5 lead changes as the Ballsportthalle continued to see high level beko BBL playoff basketball. Powell and Bryce Taylor traded baskets as Alba Berlin led 46-45. Wood then gave Frankfurt the lead with free throws, but Derrick Allen struck back with a lay ina s Alba Berlin led 48-47. Frankfurt then took the lead and closed out the third quarter with a 15-8 run and lead. Frankfurt went on a 7-2 run to lead 54-50 as Dashaun Wood scored and set up Moss nicely while Powell hit a three pointer. Frankfurt tried to extend their lead as Jimmy Mckinney scored inside and dropped a three pointer, but Alba Berlin continued to answer with timely three pointers from Dragcevic and Mcelroy. 'Imac was our MVP tonight. He stepped up in timely plays and did a good job on Wood', stressed Bryce Taylor. Wood ended the third quarter with two free throws as Frankfurt led 62-56. 'We got more defensive stops and just played our Skyliner basketball. Everything that was gained in the third quarter was erased in the first 36 seconds of the fourth quarter', stressed Dashaun Wood. 'Coach had reinforced pick and role defense at halftime. He told us to handle this problem better. The Alba Berlin big men were rolling too easy for lay ups. We defended the pick and roll defense better where the big guy play one on one against the point guard and the little guy comes down on the bigger guy to box him out', stressed Kimmo Muurinen. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 45% from the field and 42% from the parking lot while Alba Berlin was shooting 49% from the field and 55% from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the slight 25-24 rebound edge and 10 turnovers while Alba Berlin had 11 turnovers.

Just as quickly as The Deutsche Bank Skyliners ended the third quarter with the momentum, they lost it as rapidly in the first 36 seconds of the fourth quarter as Immanuel McElroy and Taylor Rochestie silenced the Ballsporthalle crowd with a rapid 6-0 run on two three pointers as all of a sudden Alba Berlin had knotted the game at 62-62. 'They made great plays in that 6-0 run. The momentum truned and we hanged from then on. It was a tough game that could of gone either way', said Kimmo Muurinen. Moss then gave Frankfurt the 64-62 lead with free throws, but Idbihi responded with a left handed lay in to tie the score at 64-64. Wood then set up Moss with a lay in and the Frankfurt lead again, but Mcelroy nailed another one of his four three pointers as Alba Berlin retrieved the lead 67-66 .De Mello then tied the score at 68-68 with a lay in and showed such a high level of self confidence never seen before as if he had just learned that he had won the lottery and could live life to the fullest. Alba Berlin regained the lead 71-68 with a Idbihi lay up and one free throw. Frankfurt continued to stay on the door step of Alba Berlin and would cut the lead down to one point four times, but they were unable to get over the hump and get the lead back. Wood cut the Alba Berlin lead down twice to one point scoring on a pull up jumper and on a lay in that reminded one of Dallas Maverick Jose Barea did in game one against the Thunder a day earlier. 'I played against Barea twice in college and beat him both times', smiled Dashaun Wood. After De Mello cut the Alba Berlin lead down to 76-75, it was Mcelroy that came flown in out of nowhere to scope up an offensive rebound and lay it in for the 78-75 lead. With less than a minute to play, Powell scored inside and Dragcevic scored as Frankfurt trailed 81-77. Mckinney then dropped a three pointer again as Frankfurt trailed only 81-80 with 30 seconds to play. There was still enough time to get a stop and come back for the win. Frankfurt got the needed stop, but couldnt get the rebound as the ball was tipped away and Alba kept possession as the clock winded down to 0:00. 'Jimmy tried to get a hand on the ball, but couldnt get possession. They played keep away from us and ran out the clock', added Quantez Robertson. 'The biggest key in this game was giving up those two three pointers to start the fourth quarter. You cant give the team the momentum back like that in a playoff game. We still played well enough to win.You are not going to get 20 points and 10 assists against a team like this. They defended well, but we executed well and got other guys like Moss, De Mello, and Mckinney involved', stressed Dashaun Wood.

Alba Berlin was led by Immanuel McElroy with 17 points. Yassin Idbihi added 15points. Derrick Allen produced 12 points and Tadija Dragcevic 10 points. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were led by Dominik Bahiense De Mello with 19 points. Dashaun Wood had 17 points, three rebounds and six assists. Jimmy Mckinney contributed 14 points and Chris Moss 13 points and six rebounds. Both teams shot very well and Alba Berlin won the rebound duel 34-31. Alba Berlin head back home with the home court advantage and can take some positives into game 2 on Saturday. 'We fought hard and shared the ball well for 40 minutes. We defended well and a plus is that we have so many dangerous weapons that you cant focus on just one player', warned Bryce Taylor. Frankfurt was so close, but at the end the only thing that counts is the win. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners showed that they didnt have many highs or lows in game 1. 'I think that we were very consistent and were able to hold the same level throughout the game considering the level of the game was very high', warned Kimmo Muurinen. 'We came out fighting, played aggressive and never gave up', commented Quantez Robertson. Frankfurt knows that if they return home from Berlin with a game 2 loss, that they might have to book early flights home. Frankfurt goes to Berlin in a do or die type of game and know what they have to do to be successful. 'Alba Berlin got too many offensive rebounds and easy put backs. We have to concentrate on doing that better as well as one on one defense', warned Kimmo Muurinen. 'We have to cut down our turnovers and get more second chance buckets and get a win and bring the home court advantage back home', stressed Quantez Robertson. Alba Berlin is in the drivers seat now, but know that they cant allow Frankfurt to come into their living room and dictate the game. 'We cant let Frankfurt do what we did in game one. We have to be focused and have no let downs', warned Derrick Allen. Alba Berlin host The Deutsche Bank Skyliners in game 2 Saturday May 21st at 17:00.

Virgil Matthews (Erdgas Ehingen) 2011 beko BBL Semi Final Playoff Thoughts - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Virgil Matthews (188-G-83, college: Montana) is a 27 year old 188cm guard from Federal Way, Washington that is playing in Germany in the PRO B for Erdgas Ehingen. He played at Montana (NCAA) and in his senior year played 31 games: 10.1ppg, 4.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.7spg, FG: 49.8%, 3PT: 48.4%, FT: 76.1%. In 2006-2007, he turned professional and came to Germany and played for KICKZ Muenchen Basket (Germany-2.Bundesliga): 29 games: 18.0ppg, 6.1rpg, 5.2apg, 2.6spg, 2FGP: 57.3%, 3FGP: 31.8%, FT: 66.5%. In 2007-2008, he played for Tacoma Jazz (IBL). In 2008-2009, he returned back to Germany and played for Schwelmer Baskets (Germany-Regionalliga). Last season, he played for Olympia Reign (IBL, starting five): 21 games: 23.1ppg, 7.2rpg and for Seattle Aviators (NABL). Awards and Achievements in his career have been , Big Sky Conf. Regular Season Runner-Up -05, 06, Big Sky Conf. Tournament Winner -05, 06, Big Sky Tournament MVP -06, Big Sky All-Tournament Team -06, All-Big Sky Honorable Mention -06, and USBasket.com All-IBL Honorable Mention -10. He spoke to eurobasket about the 2011 beko BBL playoffs.

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?

Well I didn't really see last year but this year it seemed that the top teams were a lot stronger than the next level of teams I think this round the games will be closer

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

Artland has a chance Rice gives everyone trouble, and Artland has given Brose trouble although they haven't beat them.

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?

The key is to hope Rice can play great and they control the boards.

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

I haven't seen Artland enough but from what i've seen Tyrese is what makes them go.

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

I think Frankfurt will win this series home court is important, and Frankfurt has been a little more consistent throughout the season.

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 don't see it happening no one else has stopped him he can hurt you with more than just his scoring so its tough to stop him

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

I think when Alba wants to play hard and together they are tough to beat so they just gotta do that.

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

I don't know but I think their team is built for the triangle so they need to probably find a coach that uses the triangle.

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 think their stars will get reduced minutes and they will have to start to build the team probably around Rondo.

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

I think the Bulls have a good chance they will be playing wih a chip on their shoulder.

Who will win the Dallas Mavericks/Oklahoma Thunder series?

Dallas is looking good right not the rust may hurt them a bit, I think OKC will win.

Thanks Virgil for the chat.

Dane Watts (HyeresToulon) Frankfurt Wont Be Swept By Alba Berlin! I Think It Will Be A Game 5 Situation - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Dane Watts is a 24 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg that just completed his second season for the Walter Tigers Tuebingen. He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1 (68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. Last season, he played for The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. He returns to Tuebingen for the 2010-2011 BEKO BBL season. At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. Watts sat down with eurobasket and talked about the 2011 beko BBL semi final playoffs.

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?

Well besides the top 2 teams sweeping through the first round, the other series went to game 5 so it could have gone either way. I think that series have gone as expected so far.

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

It was a great game for the Cup title with Artland losing most of their players by Over Time. I think that it will be a tough series, both teams are well coached and have a balance attack. I would say 4-5 games.

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?

Protecting home court will be huge don't think that Bamberg has lost at home this season in the bbl. Will be hard to get two there.

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

Rice has been big for them the 2nd half of the season, he has been attacking and playing like Wood for Frankfurt. Artland has some solid bigs, but I think that both teams match up well, will come down to who executes better.

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

Alba has a lot of players with experience and have won a lot of games in the bbl and Europe. I don't think that Frankfurt will be swept in this series, I think it will be a game 5 situation.

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 you need to focus on what a team best to stop them. They are at their best when Wood is scoring and creating for other people so it is natural to try to focus on him. He has done well to not let teams stop him all year though.

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

Using their depth and size inside. Team focus to contain Wood and Frankfurt's shooters.

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

I don't know who the right choice is, probably whoever Kobe wants lol. It will be a new era in the historic franchise and they will be expected to be title contenders right away.

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

Try to find some younger stars to transition for the future. Rondo and Green are a start.

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

That is a toss up. I do not know who I am going for yet. I have my guy Korver on one side and Bron/Wade on the other. I will have a team to pull for in the finals either way.

Who will win the Dallas Mavericks/Oklahoma Thunder series?

I like the matchup and wouldn't mind seeing Dirk back in the finals or the young bucks from OKC get a shot at the title. Dallas looked good sweeping the Fakers though.

Thanks Dane for the chat.

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

GREECE

A1 Round 1 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos - PAOK 95-52

The game without a history. Panathinaikos led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. Panathinaikos forced 22 PAOK turnovers and outrebounded them 35-16 including a 14-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. International guard Nick Calathes (198-89, college: Florida) fired 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Central African swingman Romain Sato (194-81, college: Xavier) chipped in 15 points. Four Panathinaikos players scored in double figures. Panathinaikos' coach Zeljko Obradovic felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Mihalis Giannakidis (192-88, agency: FCM) produced 13 points and power forward Nikos Kalles (211-87) added 8 points respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Panathinaikos: R.Sato 15+4reb, N.Calathes 14+5reb+4ast, A.Maric 11+3reb+1ast, K.Tsartsaris 10+5reb+1ast, M.Tepic 9+3reb+2ast, A.Fotsis 7+2reb
PAOK: M.Giannakidis 13+1reb+1ast, D.Christmas 10+3reb+1ast, N.Kalles 8+3reb+3ast, T.Gechevski 8+1reb, D.Stiggers 5+1ast, G.Apostolidis 4+1reb+5ast

Olympiakos - Aris 95-63

The game without a history. Olympiakos led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 27 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Aris' players. Worth to mention a great performance of Serbian guard Milos Teodosic (195-87) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). The former international guard Thodoros Papaloukas (200-77, agency: FCM) contributed with 13 points for the winners. American power forward Anthony King (206-85, college: Miami, FL, agency: Interperformances) answered with 12 points and 5 rebounds and Russian center Anatoly Kashirov (215-87) added 13 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Aris. 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:
Olympiakos: M.Teodosic 20+1reb+5ast, T.Papaloukas 13+3reb+3ast, Z.Erceg 8+10reb, P.Vasilopoulos 8+2reb, I.Bourousis 8+9reb+1ast, V.Spanoulis 7+8ast
Aris: A.Kashirov 13+5reb, A.King 12+5reb+1ast, B.Brown 6+1reb+2ast, D.Verginis 5+1reb+5ast, L.Chrysikopoulos 5+4reb, M.Tsairelis 5+2reb

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

Rawle MARSHALL
  PAOK
  (201-G-82)
  Avg: 16.8

1. Marshall, PAOK	16.8
2. Smith, Panellinios	16.7
3. Baxter, Ilysiakos	15.9
4. Palacio, Kavala	15.6
5. Kalathis, VAP K.	14.3
6. Dikoudis, AEK	14.1
7. Thompson, Ikaros	14.1
8. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos	13.9
9. Harris, Ikaros	13.7
10. King, Peristeri GS	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Simmons, Kavala	10.0
2. Thompson, Ikaros	8.8
3. Bagaric, Marousi	8.2
4. Kalathis, VAP K.	8.1
5. Smith, Panellinios	7.7
6. Papadopoulos, PAOK	7.5
7. Tucker, Aris	7.1
8. Looby, Peristeri GS	7.0
9. Bourousis, Olympia.	6.6
10. Dawson, Ilysiakos	6.6

Assists Per Game

Vassilis SPANOULIS
  Olympiakos
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 5.6

1. Spanoulis, Olympia.	5.6
2. Jordan, VAP K.	5.5
3. Teodosic, Olympiak.	5.1
4. Diamantidis, Panat.	4.4
5. Karydas, Ilysiakos	4.0
6. Papaloukas, Olymp.	3.9
7. Palacio, Kavala	3.8
8. Xanthopoulos, Pane.	3.7
9. Gagaloudis, Marousi	3.5
10. Kojadinovic, Maro.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Anthony GRUNDY
  AEK
  (189-G-79)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Grundy, AEK	1.9
2. Karydas, Ilysiakos	1.8
3. Baxter, Ilysiakos	1.8
4. Anderson, Panionios	1.7
5. Marshall, PAOK	1.7
6. Xanthopoulos, Pane.	1.7
7. Papaloukas, Olymp.	1.6
8. Jamon Lukas, Olym.	1.5
9. Papamakarios, Pane.	1.5
10. Kiritsis, Ilysiak.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Dalibor BAGARIC
  Marousi
  (217-C-80)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Bagaric, Marousi	1.9
2. Simmons, Kavala	1.8
3. Thompson, Ikaros	1.3
4. Looby, Peristeri GS	1.1
5. Nesterovic, Olymp.	0.9
6. Bourousis, Olympia.	0.9
7. Dunston, Aris	0.9
8. Dozier, PAOK	0.8
9. Harissis, VAP K.	0.8
10. Vougioukas, Pana.	0.6

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

HOLLAND

Stats Leaders - Eredivisie

Points Per Game

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

1. Stokes, BS Weert	17.0
2. Blue, Giants	16.3
3. Boxley, ZZ Leiden	15.6
4. 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	9.4
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	7.5

Assists Per Game

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

1. Turner, Eiffel T.	5.5
2. Bauscher, GasTerra	4.7
3. Stokes, BS Weert	4.0
4. Kimbrough, Giants	3.9
5. Marshall, Lands.	3.6
6. Jansen, Eiffel T.	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. Stokes, BS Weert	2.1
5. Taylor, Magixx	2.1
6. Jackson, ZZ Leiden	2.0
7. Williams, DeFriesl.	1.9
8. McGhee, ZZ Leiden	1.9
9. McDermott, Magixx	1.9
10. Ellis, GasTerra	1.8

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. McDermott, Magixx	0.9
7. Hamm, BS Weert	0.9
8. Minter, BS Weert	0.8
9. Hulzebos, Landste.	0.8
10. Bekkering, ZZ Le.	0.8

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

HUNGARY

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

Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League 1st Team 2011

Trotter

Williams

El-Amin

Townes

Bader

Player of the Year: Obie Trotter (186-G-84) of Szolnok
Guard of the Year: Obie Trotter (186-G-84) of Szolnok
Forward of the Year: Darian Townes (208-F/C-84) of Soproni
Center of the Year: Marton Bader (212-C-80) of Szolnok
Bosman Player of the Year: Brane Savic (181-G-79) of Marso-Vagep
Import Player of the Year: Obie Trotter (186-G-84) of Szolnok
Domestic Player of the Year: Adam Hanga (201-G-89) of Albacomp
Defensive Player of the Year: Darian Townes (208-F/C-84) of Soproni
Coach of the Year: Zoltan Toth of Szolnok

1st Team
G: Lorenzo Williams (191-84) of ZTE KK
G: Obie Trotter (186-84) of Szolnok
G/F: Muhammad El-Amin (196-87) of PVSK Pannon
F/C: Darian Townes (208-84) of Soproni
C: Marton Bader (212-80) of Szolnok

2nd Team
G: Brane Savic (181-79) of Marso-Vagep
G: Adam Hanga (201-89) of Albacomp
F: Rashad Bell (201-82) of Kormend
F: Daniel Werner (203-87) of Kaposvari
C/F: Brooks Sales (208-80) of Atomeromu

Honorable Mention
Jara Doyne (193-G/F-84) of Falco-Szova
Balazs Simon (188-G-80) of Albacomp
Ivory Clark (198-F-85) of Szolnok
Marcus Moore (198-G-80) of Kormend
Krisztian Wittmann (185-G-85) of Kecskemeti
Benson Egemonye (208-C-83) of PVSK Pannon
Charles Gosa (202-F-77) of Falco-Szova
Tamas Kaman (200-F/G-79) of ZTE KK
Curtis Marshall (196-G/F-83) of Marso-Vagep
Kurt Cunningham (206-C-87) of Kaposvari
Janou Rubin (193-G-82) of Szedeak
Yves Mekongo (201-F-87) of FS Debrecen

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Adam Hanga (201-89) of Albacomp
G: Balazs Simon (188-80) of Albacomp
F/G: Tamas Kaman (200-79) of ZTE KK
F: Zsolt Szabo (202-86) of Soproni
C: Marton Bader (212-80) of Szolnok

All-Imports Team
G: Lorenzo Williams (191-84) of ZTE KK
G: Obie Trotter (186-84) of Szolnok
G/F: Muhammad El-Amin (196-87) of PVSK Pannon
F/C: Darian Townes (208-84) of Soproni
C/F: Brooks Sales (208-80) of Atomeromu

All-Bosmans Team
G: Brane Savic (181-79) of Marso-Vagep
G: Josip Glavinic (192-82) of PVSK Pannon
G/F: Ivan Siriscevic (198-87) of Kecskemeti
C/F: Nebojsa Dukic (206-85) of Szedeak
C: Mikalai Aliakseyeu (212-78) of Falco-Szova

All-Defensive Team
Adam Hanga (201-G-89) of Albacomp
Obie Trotter (186-G-84) of Szolnok
Ivory Clark (198-F-85) of Szolnok
Brooks Sales (208-C/F-80) of Atomeromu
Darian Townes (208-F/C-84) of Soproni

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

ITALY

SerieA Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Bennet Cantu - Cimberio VA 78-53

Bennet Cantu eased past Varese in the opener. The game was mostly controlled by Bennet Cantu. Cimberio Varese was better in second period 18-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bennet Cantu made 18-of-23 charity shots (78.3 percent) during the game. Bennet Cantu outrebounded Cimberio Varese 39-25 including a 31-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Bennet Cantu especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 66.7 percentage. Cimberio Varese was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Serbian forward Vladimir Micov (203-85, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 14 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side and American forward Maarten Leunen (206-85, college: Oregon) accounted for 11 points and 6 rebounds. Five Bennet Cantu players scored in double figures. Croatian guard Rok Stipcevic (188-86) came up with 14 points and Estonian center Janar Talts (205-83) added 5 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Cimberio Varese in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Cimberio VA: R.Stipcevic 14+2reb+3ast, S.Serapinas 9+1reb, P.Goss 6+2reb+3ast, F.Mian 5, J.Talts 5+7reb, R.Slay 4+3reb+1ast
Bennet Cantu: N.Mazzarino 14+1reb+3ast, V.Micov 14+7reb+2ast, M.Markoishvili 11+3reb+1ast, M.Leunen 11+6reb+3ast, B.Ortner 10+7reb+1ast, M.Mian 9+1reb+1ast

Armani MI - Dinamo Sassari 70-71

Dinamo Sassari stunned Armani Jeans on the road in the opening game of the series. Armani Milano was trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 17-14 charge of Dinamo Sassari, which allowed them to win the game. They made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Armani Milano helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard James White (198-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati) stepped up and scored 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and Liberian-American forward Othello Hunter (203-86, college: Ohio St., agency: David Lee services) chipped in 12 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side American-Bulgarian guard Ibrahim Jaaber (187-84, college: Pennsylvania, agency: 540 Sports) responded with 18 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals and American guard David Hawkins (194-82, college: Temple) produced a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Armani MI: I.Jaaber 18+5reb+4ast, D.Hawkins 13+10reb+1ast, B.Eze 12+6reb+1ast, S.Mancinelli 10+4reb+1ast, M.Mordente 8+3reb+3ast, C.Karl 6+2reb+2ast
Dinamo Sassari: J.White 16+6reb+2ast, O.Hunter 12+6reb+1ast, M.Pinton 11+2reb+4ast, B.Sacchetti 10+6reb+2ast, D.Tsaldaris 7+2reb+4ast, M.Vanuzzo 7+1reb

Montepaschi - CS Bologna 94-55

Montepaschi cruised past visiting Bologna. The game without a history. Montepaschi Siena led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to CS Bologna's 26 and made 17-of-18 charity shots (94.4 percent) during the game. They outrebounded CS Bologna 44-21 including a 33-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. Lithuanian center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-79) nailed 16 points and 8 rebounds (made all of his ten free throws !!!) for the winning side and Serbian center Milovan Rakovic (208-85) accounted for 13 points and 6 rebounds. Five Montepaschi Siena players scored in double figures. American swingman K.C. Rivers (196-87, college: Clemson, agency: Lanshire Group) came up with 15 points and 4 steals and Finnish guard Petteri Koponen (193-88) added 7 points and 4 assists respectively for CS Bologna in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
CS Bologna: K.Rivers 15+2reb+2ast, J.Homan 8+2reb, P.Koponen 7+2reb+4ast, G.Poeta 7+2reb+2ast, D.Gailius 6+1reb+1ast, N.Martinoni 6+3reb
Montepaschi: K.Lavrinovic 16+8reb+1ast, M.Carraretto 15+2reb+1ast, M.Rakovic 13+6reb+2ast, P.Aradori 12+4reb, D.Moss 10+6reb, R.Kaukenas 9+4reb

Air AV - Benetton TV 78-82

Benetton Treviso stole home-court advantage from Air Avellino celebrating the win in the opener. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 32-27. But Air Avellino won second period 20-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Benetton Treviso won last quarter 18-15. Air Avellino was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Lithuanian center Donatas Motiejunas (213-90, agency: Interperformances) nailed 28 points for the winning side and swingman Alessandro Gentile (198-92) accounted for 20 points. American-FYR Macedonian guard Marques Green (170-82, college: St.Bonaventure) came up with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists and Polish center Szymon Szewczyk (209-82) added 20 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Air Avellino in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Air AV: S.Szewczyk 20+6reb+1ast, M.Green 13+6reb+8ast, L.Johnson 8+4reb+1ast, O.Thomas 8+4reb+1ast, T.Dean 8+5reb+1ast, R.Cortese 6+1reb+1ast
Benetton TV: D.Motiejunas 28+4reb, A.Gentile 20+3reb+3ast, G.Brunner 8+7reb, B.Skinner 8+7reb, M.Bulleri 7+2reb+1ast, D.Smith 5+6reb+2ast

Stats Leaders - SerieA

Points Per Game

James WHITE
  Dinamo Sassari
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 20.8

1. White, Dinamo Sass.	20.8
2. Thomas, Air AV	17.7
3. Zoroski, Banca T.	16.0
4. Ford, Fabi Shoes	15.8
5. Hunter, Dinamo S.	15.2
6. Milic, Vanoli CR	14.8
7. Roberson, Enel B.	14.6
8. Goss, Cimberio VA	14.6
9. Lavrinovic, Montep.	14.3
10. Hackett, Scavolin.	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Ford, Fabi Shoes	10.4
2. Jones, Pepsi C.	8.6
3. Troutman, Air AV	8.3
4. Davis, Banca Terc.	8.2
5. Homan, CS Bologna	8.1
6. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes	8.0
7. Lang, Enel Brindisi	7.8
8. Hunter, Dinamo S.	7.7
9. Skinner, Benetton.	7.6
10. Suton, Angelico	7.4

Assists Per Game

Marques GREEN
  Air AV
  (170-G-82)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Green, Air AV	6.9
2. Diener, Dinamo S.	4.6
3. Sosa, Angelico BI	4.5
4. Collins, Scavolin.	3.9
5. Zoroski, Banca T.	3.8
6. Rowland, Vanoli CR	3.8
7. Goss, Cimberio VA	3.8
8. Markovic, Benetton.	3.5
9. Green, Bennet Can.	3.5
10. Stipcevic, Cimber.	3.4

Steals Per Game

Earl ROWLAND
  Vanoli CR
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Rowland, Vanoli CR	2.9
2. Stonerook, Montep.	2.8
3. Troutman, Air AV	2.7
4. Thomas, Air AV	2.7
5. Goss, Cimberio VA	2.6
6. McCalebb, Montepa.	2.5
7. Green, Air AV	2.5
8. Jaaber, Armani MI	2.4
9. Dasic, Lottomatica	2.4
10. Hackett, Scavolin.	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Ford, Fabi Shoes	2.3
2. Eze, Armani MI	1.5
3. Crosariol, Lottoma.	1.3
4. Toure, Enel Brindi.	1.2
5. Hunter, Dinamo S.	1.0
6. Szewczyk, Air AV	1.0
7. Lang, Enel Brindisi	1.0
8. Polonara, Banca T.	0.9
9. Homan, CS Bologna	0.9
10. Cusin, Scavolini	0.9

Stats Leaders - Lega2

Points Per Game

Trent WHITING
  Aget Imola
  (185-G-76)
  Avg: 22.4

1. Whiting, Aget Imola	22.4
2. Robinson, Trenkwal.	19.7
3. Crispin, Barcellona	19.6
4. Gordon, Forli	19.5
5. Ebi, Aget Imola	19.2
6. Jackson, Prima Ver.	19.2
7. Goldwire, Forli	19.1
8. Clark, Umana Reyer	18.6
9. Forte, Tuscany PT	17.9
10. Marigney, Assigeco	17.8

Rebounds Per Game

Ndudi EBI
  Aget Imola
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 9.2

1. Ebi, Aget Imola	9.2
2. Filloy, Immobili.	9.0
3. Varnado, Tuscany	8.9
4. Boykin, Assigeco	8.1
5. Dickens, San Seve.	8.0
6. Chiacig, Trenkwald.	7.9
7. Waleskowski, Tezen.	7.9
8. Johnson, San Seve.	7.8
9. Gordon, Forli	7.8
10. Lollis, Immobili.	7.6

Assists Per Game

Antonio PORTA
  Tezenis .
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Porta, Tezenis	5.1
2. Crispin, Barcellona	4.8
3. Goldwire, Forli	4.5
4. Hickman, Fastw.	4.2
5. Clark, Umana Reyer	3.9
6. Marigney, Assigeco	3.8
7. Whiting, Aget Imola	3.8
8. Nardi, Forli	3.7
9. Mathis, Snaidero.	3.7
10. Farabello, N.Fer.	3.7

Steals Per Game

Ndudi EBI
  Aget Imola
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Ebi, Aget Imola	2.9
2. Piazza, Immobili.	2.8
3. Roderick, Immobi.	2.7
4. Robinson, Trenkwal.	2.6
5. Davis, Sunrise	2.6
6. Filloy, Immobili.	2.5
7. Whiting, Aget Imola	2.4
8. Cerella, Assigeco	2.4
9. Hunter, Sunrise	2.3
10. Achara, Barcellona	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Jarvis VARNADO
  Tuscany PT
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Varnado, Tuscany	3.1
2. Ebi, Aget Imola	1.4
3. Achara, Barcellona	1.2
4. Maggioli, Fileni B.	1.1
5. Frosini, Trenkwald.	0.7
6. Boykin, Assigeco	0.7
7. Cutolo, San Severo	0.7
8. Bryan, Umana Reyer	0.7
9. Trepagnier, Tezeni.	0.6
10. Ezugwu, Assigeco	0.6

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

LITHUANIA

Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game

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

1. Dilys, Naglis-Adak.	16.4
2. Dimsa, Nevezis	16.0
3. Kieza, Juventus	15.3
4. Dilys, Perlas	14.9
5. Alijevas, Nevezis	14.9
6. Vasylius, Neptunas	14.8
7. Sirvydis, Sakalai	14.0
8. Ruikis, Neptunas	13.9
9. Juskevicius, Rudup.	13.8
10. Jankunas, Zalgiris	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Aurimas KIEZA
  Juventus
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 9.4

1. Kieza, Juventus	9.4
2. Sarakauskas, Siaul.	9.2
3. Valanciunas, Lietu.	7.3
4. Dimsa, Nevezis	7.1
5. Klimavicius, Zalgi.	7.0
6. Vasylius, Neptunas	6.5
7. Dilys, Perlas	6.4
8. Valukonis, Techas.	6.4
9. Dilys, Naglis-Adak.	6.4
10. Matulis, Sakalai	6.3

Assists Per Game

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

1. Alijevas, Nevezis	5.9
2. Broadus, Siauliai	5.2
3. Rinkevicius, Techa.	5.0
4. Rasic, Lietuvos.	4.8
5. El-Amin, Lietuvos.	4.4
6. Viskontas, Perlas	4.3
7. Juskevicius, Rudup.	4.2
8. Lowe, Naglis-Adakr.	4.1
9. Janavicius, Siauli.	4.0
10. Vasiliauskas, Ais.	3.8

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  Lietuv.
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Valanciunas, Lietu.	1.8
2. Silinskis, Techasas	1.6
3. Cresnar, Nevezis	1.5
4. Volkus, Techasas	1.1
5. Cepukaitis, Juven.	0.9
6. Gumenyuk, Siauliai	0.8
7. Butkevicius, Rudup.	0.8
8. Petrukonis, Perlas	0.8
9. Zelionis, Rudupis	0.7
10. Cukinas, Aiscai K.	0.7

Zalgiris clinch LKL title - by Eurobasket News
Zalgiris - Lietuvos Rytas 95:69

Zalgiris claimed LKL title after two-seasons pause. They overcame Lietuvos Rytas in Kaunas tonight to clinch 4-1 victory in the title series. Tadas Klimavicius (204-F-82, agency: Interperformances) tallied 18 points and 10 rebounds to pace the winners.
The teams traded baskets at the start of the game but then Arturas Milaknis (195-G-86) and Marcus Brown gave the hosts an 18:11 lead. Zalgiris soon opened a double-digit lead before Babrauskas made it 22:29 at the end of the first quarter. Zalgiris piled up a 38:23 advantage at the start of the second term. The hosts maintained the pressure and the margin grew at 21-point mark late in the half. Capin capped the half with a three-pointer as Zalgiris earned a 54:32 lead. Lietuvos Rytas tried desperately to save the game. They went on a 10:0 run to cut the deficit to 13 points midway through the third term. Zalgiris finished the period strongly building a 72:54 advantage. Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81) dragged Lietuvos Rytas within 15 points early in the fourth quarter but Zalgiris quickly boosted the gap to as many as 20 points and never looked back en route to the win. DeJuan Collins (188-G-76, college: Tuskegee) and Paulius Jankunas (205-F-84, agency: Interperformances) provided 12 points apiece for Zalgiris. Arturas Milaknis had 10 points in the win. Kenan Bajramovic answered with 13 points for Lietuvos Rytas. D.J. Strawberry (196-G-85, college: Maryland) delivered 12 points in defeat.

Zalgiris: Tadas Klimavicius 18+10 boards, DeJuan Collins 12, Paulius Jankunas 12
Lietuvos Rytas: Kenan Bajramovic 13, D.J. Strawberry 12

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

MEXICO

Standings - CIBACOPA

CIBACOPA Standings

1. Cananea		27-9
2. Culiacan		26-10
3. Hermosillo		25-11
4. Guasave		22-14
5. Guaymas		19-17
6. Nogales		19-17
7. Mexicali		16-20
8. Tijuana		15-21
9. Tepic		7-29
10. Los Mochis		4-32

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin SOWELL
  Guasave
  (190-G-81)
  Avg: 32.8

1. Sowell, Guasave	32.8
2. White, Cananea	27.7
3. Sowell, Culiacan	27.3
4. Gale, Mexicali	27.1
5. Brown, Tepic	24.8
6. White, Los Mochis	24.4
7. Sims, Los Mochis	24.3
8. Brown, Tepic	23.7
9. Gabbidon, Tijuana	23.6
10. Moore, Culiacan	23.4

Rebounds Per Game

Brandon BROWN
  Cananea
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 10.9

1. Brown, Cananea	10.9
2. Moss, Nogales	10.2
3. Angounou, Guasave	9.8
4. Broxsie, Nogales	9.7
5. Brown, Tepic	9.5
6. Malloy, Los Mochis	8.7
7. Shipley, Tijuana	8.6
8. Thomas, Hermosillo	8.2
9. Rougeau, Culiacan	8.2
10. Gabbidon, Tijuana	8.1

Assists Per Game

William FUNN
  Guasave
  (188-G-82)
  Avg: 8.9

1. Funn, Guasave	8.9
2. Watson, Tijuana	6.1
3. White, Los Mochis	5.5
4. White, Cananea	5.0
5. Thomas, Hermosillo	4.8
6. Nungaray, Guaymas	4.7
7. Brown, Tepic	4.4
8. Marentes, Guaymas	4.3
9. Monreal, Hermosillo	4.2
10. Sowell, Guasave	4.0

Steals Per Game

Marcus MOORE
  Culiacan
  (198-G-80)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Moore, Culiacan	2.3
2. White, Cananea	2.1
3. Rougeau, Culiacan	1.8
4. Thomas, Cananea	1.8
5. Sowell, Guasave	1.7
6. Gale, Mexicali	1.6
7. White, Los Mochis	1.6
8. Brown, Nogales	1.6
9. Funn, Guasave	1.6
10. Brown, Cananea	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Kevin SOWELL
  Guasave
  (190-G-81)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Sowell, Guasave	3.3
2. Sowell, Culiacan	3.2
3. Gale, Mexicali	2.7
4. Webb, Culiacan	2.6
5. Thomas, Hermosillo	2.4
6. Shipley, Tijuana	2.2
7. Funn, Guasave	2.2
8. Brown, Nogales	2.1
9. White, Los Mochis	2.1
10. Brown, Tepic	2.1

CIBACOPA Round 36: Leader Mineros de Cananea gets another victory - by Eurobasket News
There are only two more rounds left in the Regular Season in CIBACOPA. The round 36 was rather boring as all games ended with very predictable results.

Leader Mineros de Cananea delivered the twentieth seventh win on Wednesday night. This time they beat 7th ranked Bomberos de Mexicali (16-20) 103-88. The game without a history. Mineros de Cananea led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot 64.9 percent from the field. Mineros de Cananea outrebounded Bomberos de Mexicali 25-12 including 19 on the defensive glass. It was a great shooting night for Mineros de Cananea especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.1 percentage. The best player for the winners was American forward Brandon Brown (201-85, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). The other American import guard Davin White (186-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) chipped in 30 points, 7 assists and 4 steals. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Michael Gale (193-82, college: Centenary) who recorded 31 points. Mineros de Cananea maintains first position with 27-9 record. Bomberos de Mexicali lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with 20 games lost. Mineros de Cananea are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Pioneros Los Mochis (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Bomberos de Mexicali will play against Coras de Tepic and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Nogales. Local Fuerza Guinda Nogales (19-17) outscored 8th ranked Tijuana Zonkeys (15-21) 106-83. It was a good game for American-Venezuelan forward Jermaine Walker (198-77, college: Miami, FL) who led his team to a victory with 25 points. Omar Quintero contributed with 20 points and 5 assists for the winners. Fuerza Guinda Nogales' coach Chris Terrell felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Travis Gabbidon (201, college: UTSA) replied with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 17 rebounds for Tijuana Zonkeys. Fuerza Guinda Nogales moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Guaymas. Tijuana Zonkeys lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 21 games lost. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will play against higher ranked Rayos de Hermosillo (#3) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Tijuana Zonkeys will play against the league's second-placed Caballeros de Culiacan (#2) and hope to get back on the winning track.

Rest of the games of round 36 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
bottom-ranked Los Mochis were defeated by Guasave in a road game 113-103. Tepic were beaten by Hermosillo at home 81-85. Guaymas lost to Culiacan on the opponent's court 84-88.
The best stats of 36th round was 28 points, 14 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals by Ira Brown of Tepic.

Guasave - Los Mochis 113-103

There was no surprise when 10th ranked Pioneros Los Mochis (4-32) were defeated on the road by fourth ranked Frayles de Guasave (22-14) 113-103. The game was mostly controlled by Frayles de Guasave. Pioneros Los Mochis was better in second period 33-24. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Frayles de Guasave had a 36-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 31 assists comparing to just 14 passes made by Pioneros Los Mochis' players. Frayles de Guasave brought some defensive toughness making 9 blocks. It was a good game for American guard Kevin Sowell (190-81) who led his team to a victory with 38 points (!!!), 9 rebounds and 5 assists. The other American import guard Rasheem Barrett (196-87, college: Auburn, agency: SportsList Inc.) contributed with 28 points for the winners. Sowell is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. American guard Detrick White (184-76, college: Mississippi St.) replied with a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!), 11 rebounds and 5 assists and the former international swingman Raymundo Castillo (197-82, college: UTPA) added 15 points and 11 rebounds in the effort for Pioneros Los Mochis. Four Frayles de Guasave and five Pioneros Los Mochis players scored in double figures. Frayles de Guasave have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain fourth position with 22-14 record. Pioneros Los Mochis lost fourth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 32 lost games. Frayles de Guasave will play against Ostioneros de Guaymas (#5) on the road in the next round. Pioneros Los Mochis will play against the league's leader Mineros de Cananea (#1) and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Guasave: K.Sowell 38+9reb+5ast, R.Barrett 28+4reb+3ast, A.Izaguirre 22+8reb+3ast, M.Strobbe 15+11reb+1ast, W.Funn 8+8reb+18ast, J.Acosta 2
Los Mochis: D.White 33+11reb+5ast, E.Hare 19+6reb+2ast, A.Verdugo 16+3reb+2ast, J.Estrada 16+5reb+2ast, R.Castillo 15+11reb+2ast, J.Eduardo Acedo 4+8reb+1ast

Nogales - Tijuana 106-83

The game with biggest result difference took place in Nogales. Local Fuerza Guinda Nogales (19-17) outscored 8th ranked Tijuana Zonkeys (15-21) 106-83. The game was mostly controlled by Fuerza Guinda Nogales. Tijuana Zonkeys was better in second period 21-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Tijuana Zonkeys outrebounded Fuerza Guinda Nogales 47-26 including a 20-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three nailing 13 long-distance shots on high 52.0 percentage. Fuerza Guinda Nogales players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. It was a good game for American-Venezuelan forward Jermaine Walker (198-77, college: Miami, FL) who led his team to a victory with 25 points. The former international guard Omar Quintero (183-81, college: S.Nazarene) contributed with 20 points and 5 assists for the winners. Five Fuerza Guinda Nogales players scored in double figures. Fuerza Guinda Nogales' coach Chris Terrell felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Travis Gabbidon (201, college: UTSA) replied with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 17 rebounds and his fellow American import power forward Cyrus Tate (203-85, college: Iowa, agency: Edge Sports) added 21 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Tijuana Zonkeys. Fuerza Guinda Nogales moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Guaymas. Tijuana Zonkeys lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 21 games lost. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will play against higher ranked Rayos de Hermosillo (#3) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Tijuana Zonkeys will play against the league's second-placed Caballeros de Culiacan (#2) and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Nogales: J.Walker 25+4reb+3ast, O.Quintero 20+1reb+5ast, R.Moss 16+5reb+1ast, B.Heredia 16+2reb+3ast, N.Brown 13+3reb+9ast, J.Mercado 10+3reb
Tijuana: T.Gabbidon 30+17reb+1ast, C.Tate 21+6reb+2ast, N.Velasquez 12+9reb+2ast, E.Zuniga 9+3reb+4ast, L.Rodriguez Sainz 7+5reb, J.Leon 3+2reb

Tepic - Hermosillo 81-85

No shocking result in a game when third ranked Rayos de Hermosillo (25-11) defeated on the road 9th ranked Coras de Tepic (7-29) 85-81. Coras de Tepic was ahead by 7 points after three quarters before a 17-10 charge of Rayos de Hermosillo, which allowed them to win the game. They brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. It was a good game for American center Marquise Gray (206-86, college: Michigan St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 14 rebounds. The other American import forward Terrance Thomas (198-80, college: Baylor) contributed with 19 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American forward Ira Brown (193-82, college: Gonzaga, agency: Dream Team Management) replied with a double-double by scoring 28 points, 14 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals and swingman Juan Pablo Bravo (191) added 23 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 blocks in the effort for Coras de Tepic. Rayos de Hermosillo have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 25-11 record having just two points less than leader Cananea. Coras de Tepic at the other side keeps the ninth place with 29 games lost. Rayos de Hermosillo will play against Fuerza Guinda Nogales (#6) at home in the next round. Coras de Tepic will play against Bomberos de Mexicali and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hermosillo: L.Wade 23+2reb+3ast, M.Gray 23+14reb, T.Thomas 19+8reb+4ast, J.Manuel Esteva 9+1reb+1ast, E.Medina 7+1reb+1ast, R.Rivera 2
Tepic: I.Brown 28+14reb+5ast, J.Pablo Bravo 23+6reb+4ast, C.Brown 13+3reb+4ast, C.Estrada 9+2reb+3ast, J.Parker 8+3reb+4ast, H.Torres 0

Cananea - Mexicali 103-88

Leader Mineros de Cananea delivered the twentieth seventh win on Wednesday night. This time they beat 7th ranked Bomberos de Mexicali (16-20) 103-88. The game without a history. Mineros de Cananea led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot 64.9 percent from the field. Mineros de Cananea outrebounded Bomberos de Mexicali 25-12 including 19 on the defensive glass. It was a great shooting night for Mineros de Cananea especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.1 percentage. The best player for the winners was American forward Brandon Brown (201-85, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). The other American import guard Davin White (186-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) chipped in 30 points, 7 assists and 4 steals. Brown is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Michael Gale (193-82, college: Centenary) who recorded 31 points and the former international power forward Hugo Carrillo (205-83) added 22 points respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Mineros de Cananea maintains first position with 27-9 record. Bomberos de Mexicali lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with 20 games lost. Mineros de Cananea are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Pioneros Los Mochis (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Bomberos de Mexicali will play against Coras de Tepic and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Cananea: D.White 30+1reb+7ast, B.Brown 26+12reb+1ast, D.Thomas 22+4reb+2ast, I.Gutierrez 12+4reb+1ast, D.Onofre 5, J.Casillas 4+3reb
Mexicali: M.Gale 31+3ast, H.Carrillo 22+1reb+1ast, S.VanderMeer 15+5reb+1ast, J.Penny 10+1reb+1ast, R.Lopez 7+3ast, A.Vazquez 2

Culiacan - Guaymas 88-84

Rather expected game when 5th ranked Ostioneros de Guaymas (19-17) were defeated on the road by second ranked Caballeros de Culiacan (26-10) 88-84. Ostioneros de Guaymas were tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Caballeros de Culiacan brought some defensive toughness making 9 blocks. It was a good game for American guard Marcus Moore (198-80, college: Washington St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 38 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds. The former international guard David Meza Rogel (187-85, college: Arizona W. CC) contributed with 15 points and 5 assists for the winners. American forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) replied with 30 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field) and his fellow American import guard Richard Roby (198-85) added 20 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Ostioneros de Guaymas. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Caballeros de Culiacan have an impressive seven-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position with 26-10 record behind leader Cananea. Ostioneros de Guaymas at the other side keep the fifth place with 17 games lost. They share the position with Nogales. Caballeros de Culiacan will play against Tijuana Zonkeys (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Ostioneros de Guaymas will play against Frayles de Guasave and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Culiacan: M.Moore 38+11reb+1ast, D.Meza Rogel 15+3reb+5ast, A.Henning 11+5reb+1ast, Q.Gonzalez 9+3reb, R.Rougeau 8+7reb+4ast, C.M. Toussaint 4+1reb+1ast
Guaymas: J.Habel 30+6reb, R.Roby 20+10reb, R.Benitez 14+7reb, H.Nungaray 7+1reb+6ast, A.Pedroza 6+3reb, J.Sanchez 3+1reb

Best players of Mexican CIBACOPA round 36 - by Eurobasket News
American Kevin Sowell (190-G-81) had an amazing evening in the last round for Guasave and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 36.
The 29-year old guard had the game-high 38 points adding nine rebounds and five assists for Guasave in his team's victory, helping them to beat Los Mochis (#10, 4-32) 113-103. Guasave maintains the 4th position in Mexican CIBACOPA. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Guasave will need more victories to improve their 22-14 record. In the team's last game Sowell had a remarkable 61.9% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Guasave, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Sowell has impressive league stats. He is league's best scorer averaging so far 32.8ppg. Sowell is in league's top in and averages solid 3.3bpg and 59.2% FGP. Worth to mention Sowell played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 28-year old American forward Ira Brown (193-F-82, agency: Dream Team Management) of Tepic. Brown impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 28 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Tepic was edged by the higher-ranked Hermosillo (#3, 25-11) 85-81. Tepic managed to keep the same 9th spot in the standings. 29 lost games are too many comparing to just seven victories Tepic managed to get this year. Brown is one of the most experienced players at Tepic and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 24.8ppg (#5). He also registered 9.5 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was American Travis Gabbidon (201-F) of Tijuana (#8). Gabbidon got into 30-points club by scoring exactly 30 points in the last round. He went also for seventeen rebounds . Despite Gabbidon's great performance Tijuana lost 83-106 to slightly higher-ranked Nogales (#6, 19-17). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Tijuana ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 21 games, recording just fifteen victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Gabbidon could help Tijuana to bring them higher in the standings. Gabbidon has a great season in Mexico. After 28 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 23.6ppg (9th best). He also has 1.7bpg and FGP: 51.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Marcus Moore (198-G-80) of Culiacan - 38 points and 11 rebounds
5. Brandon Brown (201-F-85) of Cananea - 26 points and 12 rebounds
6. Marquise Gray (206-C-86) of Hermosillo - 23 points and 14 rebounds
7. William Funn (188-G-82) of Guasave - 8 points, 8 rebounds and 18 assists
8. Davin White (186-G-81) of Cananea - 30 points and 7 assists
9. Jerome Habel (208-F-85) of Guaymas - 30 points and 6 rebounds
10. Detrick White (184-G-76) of Los Mochis - 33 points, 11 rebounds and 5 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)

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

NBA

Karen Davidson to keep part ownership in Detroit Pistons - by Eurobasket News
Current Detroit Pistons owner Karen Davidson says shell retain part ownership of the NBA franchise, its arena and Palace Sports & Entertainment after the sale to Beverly Hills, Calif., billionaire Tom Gores is complete.

The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press report Wednesday that Davidson wont say how big a minority stake shell keep or if stepson Ethan Davidson will keep a piece, too.

The Associated Press left messages Wednesday seeking comment from lawyers involved in the deal.

Gores and Davidson reached an agreement last month on the sale, which hasnt closed and needs NBA approval.

Gores is a Flint native and chief executive of Platinum Equity.

Karen Davidson took ownership of the team, the Palace and its entertainment arm following the 2009 death of her husband, Bill Davidson.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Chauncey Billups to have another MRI - by Eurobasket News
It's been exactly one month and a day since Chauncey Billups (6'3''-G-76, college: Colorado) strained his left knee in Game 1 of the New York Knicks' first-round series against the Celtics, but he's still not feeling 100 percent.

'I can't get on the court and really like grind, grind,' said Billups, whose injury came while driving to the lane with less than a minute remaining in the fourth quarter, and the score tied at 82. 'I'm still not ready to do that, but I'm getting better though. At this point, I'm just kind of taking it easy, man.'

Billups said he will be flying to New York in the next couple of weeks to have another MRI to make sure everything is healing properly. In the meantime, Mr. Big Shot is currently in Las Vegas for a few days assisting his trainer, Joe Abunassar, with working out several of the top guard prospects in the upcoming NBA draft, including Kawhi Leonard, Alec Burks, Josh Selby and Malcolm Lee.

The labor negotiations between the owners and players are the last thing on Billups' mind.

'I'm going to let this process evolve however it will, and hope for the best,' he said. 'I'm not thinking about the lockout and I'm not thinking about if I'm going to play overseas or any of that kind of stuff. I'm just happy to be home [in Colorado], spending time with my family and enjoying the summer.'

Billups is also happy to be back with the Knicks. On April 28, the team decided not to buy out his contract and picked up his $14.2 million option for the 2011-12 season.

'I'm just excited to be coming back and hopefully our team evolves into a championship-caliber team, depending on what other moves we make,' Billups said. 'I feel like we took a big step this year and upgraded the talent on the team. We have to start getting the proper pieces around and everybody locking in for a great cause.'

The Knicks have the 17th pick in next month's draft, and one of those point guards Billups has been mentoring could be considered as his potential backup.

Courtesy of ESPN

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar feels 'slighted' without statue at Staples Center - by Eurobasket News
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (6'6''-G/F-76, college: W.Kentucky) is the leading scorer in NBA history. He was selected to a record 19 All-Star teams. He won six world championships---five with the Los Angeles Lakers---after bringing three national titles to the city while at UCLA.

In short, Abdul-Jabbar is as accomplished as any athlete walking the planet.

Oh, sure, you could quibble with that. And why not? Such conversations are nothing if not fun for sports fans.

That has pretty much been the thinking behind Sporting News' yearlong 'Great Debates' series, the fifth installment of which is in the magazine set to hit newsstands this week---focusing on the top 10 'game changers' of all time in baseball, basketball, football, hockey and stock-car racing.

Needless to say---it is needless, right?---Kareem is on that list. For crying out loud, the NCAA banned the slam dunk in an absurd overreaction to his dominance.

Talk about changing the game.

But for all of Abdul-Jabbar's influence, for all of his accomplishments, the man feels 'slighted' by the Lakers organization, as he explains in a six-page interview in the magazine.

Why? There are multiple reasons---and we're not going to spoil all the goods here---but one of them has to do with the statues that have been erected outside Staples Center.

There are five of them: of Magic Johnson, Jerry West, Chick Hearn, Wayne Gretzky and Oscar De La Hoya.

Notice who's not on that list?

Yes, the great Lakers center Mike Smrek. And also Abdul-Jabbar, who has this to say in his 'Sporting News Conversation':

'I don't understand (it). It's either an oversight or they're taking me for granted. I'm not going to try to read people's minds, but it doesn't make me happy. It's definitely a slight. I feel slighted.'

In a subsequent statement passed along by his business manager, Abdul-Jabbar said: 'I am highly offended by the total lack of acknowledgement of my contribution to Laker success. I guess being the lynchpin for five world championships is not considered significant enough in terms of being part of Laker history.'

The Lakers offered this response, via spokesman John Black:

'We've been at Staples Center 11 years and have two ex-players who have statues now. It's not like we do it every year; we have no timetable. Whenever we do the next statue of the third Los Angeles Lakers player, it (will be) Kareem---and he has been told that. Again, we didn't say when that was going to be. It could be next year, the year after or several years from now.'

Whenever. Now that's a date that can't be set in stone.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Timberwolves president David Kahn: 'I was joking, the NBA lottery is not fixed' - by Eurobasket News
Timberwolves president David Kahn says his comments about the NBA draft lottery were intended as a joke, simply a tongue-in-cheek resignation that fate gave Cleveland the first pick ahead of luck-lacking Minnesota.

After the Cavaliers beat out the Wolves for the top spot Tuesday, Kahn said with a smirk to a group of reporters, 'This league has a habit - and I am just going to say habit - of producing some pretty incredible story lines.'

Kahn pointed to Washington sending the widow of longtime owner Abe Pollin last year and getting the first pick. Cleveland had owner Dan Gilbert's 14-year-old son, who has battled disease since birth, on hand for good luck this time. The Cavaliers got exactly that in the annual pingpong ball pop-up.

'He beat me tonight. He took all of us down,' Kahn said of Nick Gilbert.

Minnesota has never secured the first pick in 14 entries in the lottery. Not only that, but this was the first time the Wolves moved up a spot in the order. They had the third pick twice, in 2008 (O.J. Mayo, traded to Memphis for Kevin Love) and 1992 (Christian Laettner).

The Wolves went a league-worst 17-65 last season. The Cavaliers were 19-63.

Kahn, in a statement sent Wednesday by the Wolves to The Associated Press, said he wasn't suggesting a conspiracy of any kind.

'I don't believe in jinxes, curses (or) hocus pocus, and I certainly don't think we were wronged,' Kahn said. 'But I do believe in the power of story, and I joked last night that it's a heck (of a) better story for a 14-year-old kid to beat out a couple of middle-aged executives standing together on a stage on national TV and that our league seems to always have its own share of luck in being a part of these stories.'

Kahn added: 'That was the entire meaning of what I said last night in a joking fashion and what I believe was received in such fashion.'

Gilbert said Wednesday he was aware of Kahn's comments, but hadn't yet had a chance to review them.

'I haven't had a lot of time to go deep on that,' Gilbert said in Cleveland, meeting with the media at Quicken Loans Arena. 'But I will. I'll check it all out.'

There was no immediate word from the NBA on Wednesday about whether Kahn will be reprimanded or punished, despite his joking intent. Kahn was fined $50,000 last summer for remarking on the radio that Wolves forward Michael Beasley was 'a very young and immature kid who smoked too much marijuana' while he was playing in Miami.

The Wolves had a 25 percent chance of getting the first pick and a 21.51 percent chance of choosing second this year. In 18 years of the NBA's current system, only twice has the team with the best odds kept the first pick Cleveland in 2003 and Orlando in 2004.

The Wolves also have the 20th pick in the first round this year, thanks to a previous trade with Utah.

'I don't think we need to make some huge fundamental changes. I think we need to continue to be patient and let the young players develop like the Oklahoma City and Memphis franchises have done the last couple of years,' Kahn said after the lottery, 'but I think that it's important for us to re-evaluate everything and make certain we can put this group together.'

Point guard Kyrie Irving of Duke and Arizona forward Derrick Williams are widely considered the top two prospects this year. Kahn said he's still planning for point guard Ricky Rubio to join the team from Spain. Rubio was the fifth pick in the 2009 draft.

'We took Ricky two years ago with the understanding that he wouldn't be able to come right away but he would be able to come someday,' Kahn said, adding: 'We anticipate him being on the team in the future, just as we did all of the other players on our roster. So certainly, it's part of the mindset, yes.'

Courtesy of http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/

Will Kyrie Irving be the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft? - by Eurobasket News
Kyrie Irving (6'2''-G-92) showed up at the NBA draft lottery tonight not because he expects to be the No. 1 pick in the June 23 draft, he said, but - if you believe him - just because the thing was practically being held in his backyard.

'I live 20 minutes from here,' the West Orange native said of the NBAE studio, in Secaucus. 'Its a once in a lifetime opportunity.'

But, of course, Irving, the St. Patrick's of Elizabeth grad and Duke product very well could be the top pick. The Cleveland Cavaliers own that pick, after winning the lottery Tuesday. With how the Cavaliers had their heart ripped out last summer when LeBron James left them as a free agent last summer to sign with Miami, someone asked Irving if he thought being the No. 1 pick by Cleveland would cause folks to compare him to LeBron. Irving wasn't buying it.

'No, not at all,' Irving said. 'I dont think you could actually make comparisons to me and LeBron, because 1) Im not 6-8, and 2) Im not a high flyer. And 3) my name isnt LeBron James. I dont think you can make those comparisons yet I think I bring a different feel to the Cleveland organization if they do decide to pick me there.'

Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert, who was so bitter the night LeBron announced his 'Decision' on live national TV last summer, was in a completely different mood this night. Not only did Cleveland win the lottery with a pick they acquired from the L.A. Clippers, but their own pick is No. 4 overall.

'Its just kind of ironic after everything that happened, with over the last few years and last summer, how we had the best record the last two years and close to the worst record this year and we all know what happened in between, just to sit up here and kind of get a fresh start all over again,' Gilbert said of the Cavs getting the No. 1 pick.

'When we took that on (the trade for Baron Davis), we said the only way to really build here is to get big players early on in the draft,' Gilbert said. 'I guess you couldnt do any better than this. I guess you could (get) 1 and 2, but well take 1 and 4.'

Of course, Gilbert wouldn't say if the Cavs will take Irving, a 6-2 point guard who averaged 17.5 points, 3.4 rebounds and 4.3 assists in 11 games for Duke this season, with the first pick. And Irving won't assume anything ('Its not something Im expecting its just whatever team has the right situation, they want me or need me, Im happy to go there,' he said). But, he made it clear if he is the No. 1 pick, he'll be ready for whatever awaits him.

'Honestly, if Cleveland does pick me, I think I would bring a lot to the team, diversity and versatility and contribute the best that I can,' he said.

Courtesy of www.nj.com

Warriors front office meets with Shaw, Person - by Eurobasket News
The Warriors' coaching search continued on Tuesday, with members of the team's front office meeting with Chuck Person and Brian Shaw in Los Angeles.

League sources said Warriors general manager Larry Riley and assistant general manager Bob Myers met with Person and Shaw, both of whom are assistant coaches with the Los Angeles Lakers.

It is unknown whether or not the talks with Shaw and Person are considered formal interviews or simply casual discussions. Warriors owner Joe Lacob did not take part in the talks with Shaw or Person.

He was in Secaucus, N.J., on Tuesday, representing the Warriors at the NBA's annual draft lottery. Riley and the Warriors have said they will not comment on any aspect of their coaching search.

On April 27, the Warriors announced they were not picking up the option on Keith Smart's contract for 2011-12.

Riley did acknowledge in a radio interview on Tuesday morning that he was in Los Angeles and planning to hook up with Myers.

Said Riley: 'Bob and I are going to get together, do some visiting over a few issues.'During that interview with KNBR radio, Riley did say that reports of the Warriors' interest in former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown and Shaw 'are not inaccurate.'

Riley and Myers are next headed to Chicago for the NBA's pre-draft camp, according to Riley.

The Warriors have met with at least four candidates to this point. Over the weekend, SI.com reported that discussions already had taken place between members of the Warriors' front office and both Brown and Dallas assistant coach Dwane Casey.

Riley continues to maintain that there is no timetable for hiring a coach and that's it's conceivable that a decision could come after the June 23 NBA draft. At the same time, there are four current openings in the NBA -- Golden State, L.A. Lakers, Indiana Pacers and Houston Rockets.

It is possible there could also be head coaching openings in Minnesota, Detroit and possibly Toronto.

Courtesy of www.csnbayarea.com

Atlanta Hawks for sale? - by Eurobasket News
The Atlanta Spirit owns the NHL's Atlanta Thrashers and the NBA's Atlanta Hawks. The Thrashers have been a financial bust in Georgia and the Spirit has been trying to unload the franchise, but news comes from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the Hawks are also on the block.

From the Journal-Constitution: 'The Spirit, in the process of negotiating a deal that would send the hockey team to Winnipeg, also is in talks about a possible separate sale of the basketball Hawks, who would remain in Atlanta.'

Outgoing San Diego Padres owner John Moores is in exclusive talks with the Spirit to obtain the Hawks and the Philips Arena operating rights, sources tell the paper, though 'a deal is not close' and 'it's far from assured one will get done.'

Meanwhile, the Thrashers' sale to True North Sports and Entertainment progresses while no viable buyer has appeared that wants to keep the team in Atlanta, the paper notes.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Parker on the Spurs, chances at another title, playing for France, and more - by Eurobasket News
After a fantastic NBA regular season, the San Antonio Spurs were upset in the first round of the NBA playoffs by the hands of the eighth seeded Memphis Grizzlies.

Now with an early start to his summer vacation, Spurs' Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80), who is currently in France, spoke at a press conference, via sports.fr.

During the press conference, Parker says he is excited to be playing for the French National team this summer but spoke candidly on the Spurs season, the looming NBA lockout, the Spurs chances at another title and more.

Please excuse the rough translation provided by a translator tool.

Parker on the Spurs early playoff elimination:

'I had time to think. It's a big disappointment. I spoke again last week with Pop (Gregg Popovich, Ed),we're all sad and frustrated. Because we made a big season, it dominates, but you lose the first round. There is nothing to say Memphis has played very well. I said early in the season it was perhaps our last chance, that the window was closing, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili were becoming a bit old. There will always be a strong team, but we can not say we play the track. We must be realistic.'

On being mentioned in trade rumors:

'Yes, the past two years. If they have a player trading, that's me. After, Pop told me that I'm not going anywhere. But I know that the NBA is a business, you have to be ready for anything. You never know.'

On if he was serious about playing in France should there be an NBA lockout:

'Let there be no lockout or lockout, I will play for France. I already told Spurs to Pop. I want people to qualify for the Olympics. Based on recent discussions with my agent, there will be locked out in early July, for sure. He is positive, he hopes that does not miss regular-season game. But when you talk with our representative at the Spurs, Matt Bonner, he thinks it'll be long. The last time there was a lockout in 1999, they were resumed in January. I prepare everything.'

'I have already spoken with my agent in France, I asked him to start looking for me an apartment. I'm serious, it's true. I will not play in Bordeaux with Boris Diaw or Spain or Russia. If I play, it will be in France, Asvel. As well enjoy it, my friends can see me play, it might be nice.'

On the insurance issue should he play for France:

'It's a big problem. It is also a problem with the France team, because we have many players who play in the NBA. Moreover, we will soon meet with the people of the Federation and the president (Jean-Pierre Siutat, Ed), because the NBA has announced that it will not pay its share. It should perhaps do with Boris and Joakim, we can get together to try to reach an agreement. We'll see. It's a big sum, I will not pay. No, it depends on how ... '

Courtesy of http://projectspurs.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.	25.4
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.	23.8
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..	7.9
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. Allen, Memphis G.	1.8
6. Wall, Washington W.	1.8
7. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.8
8. Gay, Memphis G.	1.7
9. Conley, Memphis G.	1.7
10. Kidd, Dallas M.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Bogut, Milwauke.	2.6
2. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.5
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

Derrick Rose and Dwayne Wade - by Eddie King
How Ironic is to see two of Chicago best basketball prodigies (other than Isaiah Thomas) playing head to head in the playoffs with a chance to go to the NBA Finals. Not that Ironic to most, but if you're from Chicago and know their stories then, it almost bitter-sweet. Dwayne Wade (6'4 82 college Marquette) through his adolescent and teenage years growing up in Robbins IL, watched the Chicago Bulls win 6 Championships in the 90's and idolized Michael Jordan like all Chicagoans did. He's also admittedly said 'Chicago will always have my heart'.

Derrick Rose (6'3 88 college Memphis) on the other hand, 6 years Wade's junior, was a child/adolescent as the Bulls were piling up rings and creating a dynasty, but always says ' he remembers celebrating outside on the streets like everyone else everytime the Bulls won a championship!' Rose a Inglewood product, immulated Jordan too as a youngster.

Rose got the best of both worlds as he was drafted number 1 in 2008 and got picked by his hometown team the Chicago Bulls, Rose has been quoted to say ' It was a dream come true inspite of the pressures that come along with it. Just five years earlier Wade was taken at no.5 just one pick ahead of the Bulls and the they knew that they had missed out on a potential great player. Wade actually says, 'I thought I was gonna get drafted by the Bulls'.

Here's the Irony! If the Bulls would've been able to draft Wade, they most likely would've been a very or great team by 2008 and probably wouldn't have been in the Lottery with a chance to draft a player like Rose. But everything had a chance to come full circle in the summer of 2010 when Wade and other big names became free agents. Wade visited the Bulls, got wined and dined, and even said 'Chicago was very high on his list along with Miami'. Could it be the dream backcourt that Chicagoans were yearning for had a real chance of happening, but of course Wade resigned with the Heat, and Lebron James (6'8 '84 St Vincent Saint Mary Highschool) along with Chris Bosh (6'10 '85 college Georgia Tech) joined him and we know the rest.

Now they're guarding each other head to head and with everything on the line, kind of bitter-sweet to Chicagoans, but they both are in great situations obviously, as a fellow Chicagoan I can only dream of what would've been the most dynamic backcourt ever!

Article brought to you by: Author Eddie King Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) <<>><<>>

NBA Draft Preview: Shooting Guards - by Carl Berman
This is the second article of our position review of NBA draft prospects as we look at the top shooting guards.

Alec Burks (6'6''-G-91); Colorado:The sophomore guard led the Buffaloes to the Final Four of the NIT while finishing third in scoring with the Big 12 Conference. Burks is a phenomenal slasher and has uncanny scoring instincts especially around the basket. He is projected to be a lottery pick in this year NBA draft. He needs to improve his outside shooting if he plans to stay at the two guard position in the NBA.

Klay Thompson; Washington State: The Pac-10's leading scorer has proven that his is one of the best jump shooters in the country. He is a terrific free throw shooter and has tremendous range on his three point shot. Thompson needs to improve his strength and ball handling skills to excel at the next level.

Travis Leslie; Georgia: Travis Leslie is an unbelievable athlete that can produce a dunk highlight every night. He is very creative and unique in his ability to get to the rim and finish with great proficiency. At a height of 64, Leslie is undersized as a two guard in the NBA and needs to finish developing his jump shot. He has the ability be a NBA star if he learns to score points without driving the lane.

Marshon Brooks; Providence: This senior shooting guard is one of the most natural scorers in the nation. Brooks holds the Big East record for most points scored in a conference game with 52. He also averaged 7 rebounds a game to support his cause of becoming a successful NBA shooting guard. Brooks needs to learn how to get other teammates more involved and needs to improve his free throw percentage to become a NBA starter.

William Buford; Ohio State: Buford did not finish the season well. However, he has as good a shooting range as anyone in the draft. He is also very long and should be able to defend his position at the NBA level. There are concerns about Buford's maturity which may impact his draft selection.

Others: Jon Diebler and David Lighty: Ohio State, LaceDarius Dunn: Baylor, Brad Wanamaker: Pittsburgh, ETwaun Moore: Purdue

This article was written by NetScouts Basketball Correspondent Evan Howard. Information on NetScouts Basketball, their daily blog and International Recruiting Service can be found at www.netscoutsbasketball.com.

Thunder beat Mavericks 106-100, tie series at 1 - by Eurobasket News
Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) scored 24 points and James Harden (6'5''-G-89, college: Arizona St.) added 23, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 106-100 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night, knotting the Western Conference finals at one game each.

Durant was as tough to guard as ever, but the real difference was Harden and the bench coming up big, especially down the stretch.

The bearded, left-handed guard had a four-point play in the final seconds of the third quarter that put Oklahoma City up by one. Then he and fellow reserves Eric Maynor, Nick Collison and Daequan Cook (6'5''-G-87, college: Ohio St.) teamed with Durant to outplay Dallas' crew of closers in the final period.

The Thunder's unusual set of finishers outscored the Mavs' by five. They broke the game open with a 14-5 stretch capped by a tough jumper by Harden near the foul line; it put Oklahoma City up by 10 with 3:15 left. Dallas got as close as four points the rest of the way.

'They've been playing hard all year for us and this was another example,' Durant said of his team's reserves.

Oklahoma City continued its streak of avoiding consecutive losses this postseason. The series shifts to the Thunder's home court about 200 miles up Interstate 35 for Game 3 on Saturday night.

Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) didn't dominate nearly as much as he did in the opener, scoring 29 points. He had 16 in the fourth quarter, but it wasn't enough as Dallas was its seven-game winning streak end and dropped to 6-1 at home in the playoffs.

'We made it a little tougher for him,' Durant said, referring to Nowitzki's 48 points in Game 1.

Nowitzki made 10 of 17 shots in Game 2, but had to earn every one, with bodies flying at him before and during every possession. He was swarmed so tightly that he didn't even score in the third quarter, taking just two shots in nearly 9 minutes. The Thunder also got physical without drawing many fouls. The big German took only 10 free throws, down from 24 in the opener. He even missed one, and it was a biggie part of a series of three shots with 36.7 seconds left. It could have put the Mavericks within three.

Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) had 15 points and 13 rebounds, and Jason Kidd (6'4''-G-73, college: California) added 14 points and seven assists for Dallas. However, the Mavericks' bench wasn't up to its usual scoring punch. J.J. Barea scored 11 points, and Jason Terry and Peja Stojakovic both had eight.

Maynor scored 13 points, Cook had eight and Collison six. Russell Westbrook bounced back from a tough opener to score 18 points, but he watched the fourth quarter from the bench.

'I was surprised but Eric was playing a great floor game and was getting everyone involved,' Durant said of Westbrook not playing down the stretch.

Oklahoma City's reserves were so good that Durant scored only four points in the final quarter. Although he didn't score 40 like the opener, he was still spectacular, with a second-quarter dunk that's worth going to YouTube to see again and again, and a behind-the-back dribble to clear space for another key basket in the third quarter.

The Thunder shot 56 percent from the field, and again showed how much their youth and athleticism can hurt the older, slower Mavericks. Dallas came into this series not having allowed more than 97 points in any playoff game, and Oklahoma City has shattered that in both games.

The first three quarters were widly entertaining, with each team going through spurts that seemed like they would be capable of breaking things open. The Thunder came out of it leading 77-76 at the start of the final period.

Dallas got the fun started just a few minutes into the game, with a sweet drive and dish by Kidd to Nowitzki resulting in his first basket. The Mavs went on a 12-2 roll that included a full-court inbounds pass to an uncovered Shawn Marion for a dunk that drew a deafening cheer and a timeout by the Thunder.

Durant's awesome dunk highlighted Oklahoma City's first rally. He soared high enough to touch the square on the backboard and roared so much afterward that he was hit with a technical foul, although he told official Tom Washington, 'All I said is, 'And one.''

Oklahoma City went back ahead 40-35 by scoring on 10 straight possessions. Durant was the No. 1 cheerleader on the bench during that run. With a towel over his head, he was up on his seat after almost every basket.

The Thunder led 59-57 at halftime and stretched the lead to eight points, their biggest yet, when Durant dribbled behind his back to clear space for a jumper. Dallas put DeShawn Stevenson on Durant for a while, then Kidd, and it helped the Mavericks get back into the game. Stevenson tied it with a 3-pointer and the Mavs even went ahead by four. Oklahoma City regained the lead with 7.5 seconds left on a four-point play by Harden, courtesy of a silly foul by Terry.

Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

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

NCAA1

NBA Draft Preview: Shooting Guards - by Carl Berman
This is the second article of our position review of NBA draft prospects as we look at the top shooting guards.

Alec Burks (6'6''-G-91); Colorado:The sophomore guard led the Buffaloes to the Final Four of the NIT while finishing third in scoring with the Big 12 Conference. Burks is a phenomenal slasher and has uncanny scoring instincts especially around the basket. He is projected to be a lottery pick in this year NBA draft. He needs to improve his outside shooting if he plans to stay at the two guard position in the NBA.

Klay Thompson; Washington State: The Pac-10's leading scorer has proven that his is one of the best jump shooters in the country. He is a terrific free throw shooter and has tremendous range on his three point shot. Thompson needs to improve his strength and ball handling skills to excel at the next level.

Travis Leslie; Georgia: Travis Leslie is an unbelievable athlete that can produce a dunk highlight every night. He is very creative and unique in his ability to get to the rim and finish with great proficiency. At a height of 64, Leslie is undersized as a two guard in the NBA and needs to finish developing his jump shot. He has the ability be a NBA star if he learns to score points without driving the lane.

Marshon Brooks; Providence: This senior shooting guard is one of the most natural scorers in the nation. Brooks holds the Big East record for most points scored in a conference game with 52. He also averaged 7 rebounds a game to support his cause of becoming a successful NBA shooting guard. Brooks needs to learn how to get other teammates more involved and needs to improve his free throw percentage to become a NBA starter.

William Buford; Ohio State: Buford did not finish the season well. However, he has as good a shooting range as anyone in the draft. He is also very long and should be able to defend his position at the NBA level. There are concerns about Buford's maturity which may impact his draft selection.

Others: Jon Diebler and David Lighty: Ohio State, LaceDarius Dunn: Baylor, Brad Wanamaker: Pittsburgh, ETwaun Moore: Purdue

This article was written by NetScouts Basketball Correspondent Evan Howard. Information on NetScouts Basketball, their daily blog and International Recruiting Service can be found at www.netscoutsbasketball.com.

Kansas St. assistant Hill heading to Maryland - by Eurobasket News
Kansas State University confirms that its highest-paid assistant basketball coach and top recruiter, Dalonte Hill, has resigned to take a similar position at the University of
Maryland.

Hill was best known at Kansas State as the person who persuaded star forward Michael Beasley to come to the school in 2007. Beasley set several single-season records in 2007 before moving on to the NBA.

Hill came to Kansas State in 2006 after working as an assistant at North Carolina-Charlotte. He was believed to be one of the nation's highest paid assistant coaches, making $423,750 a year with the potential for as much as $80,000 in bonuses.

He will work for Mark Turgeon, a former University of Kansas player who was hired last week as head coach of the Terrapins.

Courtesy of www.kbtx.com

Judge transfers from Kansas State to Rutgers - by Eurobasket News
Forward Wally Judge (6'9''-F-90) is transferring to Rutgers after spending two seasons at Kansas State.

Rutgers announced Wednesday that Judge has signed the transfer paperwork and will be eligible to play in the 2012-13 season.

The 2009 McDonald's High School All-American will have two seasons of eligibility with the Scarlet Knights.

Judge played in 53 games (17 starts) in two seasons at Kansas State. He averaged 5.5 points and 3.8 rebounds this past season.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

N.C. State lands prized local recruit - by Eurobasket News
The first day new N.C. State basketball coach Mark Gottfried was allowed to talk to recruits, he called Raleigh Word of God's Torian Graham.

The timing of the call in early April made a big impression on Graham, one of the top recruits in the country who made a verbal commitment to the Wolfpack on Monday.

'He told me I was their top priority,' Graham said. 'That meant a lot to me.'

Graham, a 6-foot-4 shooting guard, is rated the 25th-best player in the class of 2012 by Scout.com and 45th by ESPN's Dave Telep. He averaged about 19 points per game as a junior.

Gottfried, who was hired on April 5 to replace Sidney Lowe, has four scholarships available for this season and one more will open up after the season.

The Wolfpack is also pursuing Graham's prep teammate T.J. Warren, a forward, and Graham's close friend, guard Rodney Purvis of Raleigh's Upper Room Academy.

'I'm going to get (Purvis) and a couple of more,' Graham said. 'I can recruit now.'

Graham exchanged Twitter posts with Purvis on Monday about teaming up for the Wolfpack for the 2012-13 season. Purvis, who is ranked as one of the top 10 players in the class of 2012, recently decommitted to Louisville and opened up his recruiting options.

Graham, who's from Durham and played his first two high school seasons at Hillside, joins Tyler Lewis, a point guard from Lewisville, as commitments from the class of 2012.

Lorenzo Brown, who will be a sophomore, is the only guard on the roster for the 2011-12 season.

Telep said Graham will provide immediate backcourt help in what will be Gottfried's second season.

'Torian Graham has the DNA of a scorer,' said Telep, who's ESPN's top recruiting analyst. 'The Pack is going to need a guy who can get a bucket and he's certainly able to create scoring chances off the dribble or as a shooter.'

Gottfried made his mark at Alabama as a top recruiter landing future NBA stars Mo Williams and Gerald Wallace.

Graham said he felt comfortable right away with Gottfried.

'He's like a brother and a coach,' Graham said. 'We were on the same page.'

Miami, Clemson, Virginia Tech, Georgetown and Rutgers were among the schools in pursuit of Graham.

Courtesy of www.charlotteobserver.com

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

NEW ZEALAND

Standings Men

NBL Standings

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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Darryl HUDSON
  Manawatu.
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 22.8

1. Hudson, Manawatu.	22.8
2. Leasure, Taranaki.	22.0
3. Webster, Wellingt.	20.7
4. Pledger, Waika.	20.3
5. Jones, Nelson G.	20.3
6. Pace, Bay Hawks	20.3
7. Dora, Nelson G.	20.2
8. Mickens, Auckland.	20.2
9. Smith, Waikato P.	19.4
10. Bradshaw, Oceana.	19.3

Rebounds Per Game

Mika VUKONA
  Nelson G.
  (197-F-82)
  Avg: 11.3

1. Vukona, Nelson G.	11.3
2. Horvath, Manawatu.	10.3
3. Pledger, Waika.	10.3
4. Bradshaw, OceanaG.	10.0
5. Allred, OceanaGo.	9.8
6. Campbell, Taranaki.	9.7
7. Trousdell, Bay H.	9.4
8. Seay, Waikato P.	9.3
9. Johnson, Wellingt.	9.2
10. Frank, Wellington	8.6

Assists Per Game

Kevin BRASWELL
  Southlan.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Braswell, Southlan.	6.3
2. Tait, Wellington S.	5.8
3. Dickel, Southland	5.2
4. Crowe, Waikato P.	5.0
5. Kench, Manawatu J.	5.0
6. Martin, Auckland.	4.4
7. Smith, Waikato P.	4.4
8. O''Gallagher, Ocean.	3.7
9. Kenny, Bay Hawks	3.3
10. Leasure, Taranaki.	3.2

Steals Per Game

Jerry SMITH
  Waikato P.
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 3

1. Smith, Waikato P.	3.0
2. Crowe, Waikato P.	2.3
3. Seay, Waikato P.	2.3
4. Kench, Manawatu J.	2.2
5. Dickel, Southland	2.0
6. Allen, Waikato P.	2.0
7. Frank, Wellington	1.8
8. Hudson, Manawatu.	1.7
9. Trueman, Manawatu.	1.7
10. Leasure, Taranaki.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Alex PLEDGER
  Waika.
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Pledger, Waika.	3.3
2. Campbell, Taranaki.	1.7
3. Seay, Waikato P.	1.5
4. Anthony, Waika.	1.3
5. Spicer, Southlan.	1.2
6. Johnson, Wellingt.	1.0
7. Vukona, Nelson G.	1.0
8. Trueman, Manawatu.	1.0
9. Brown, Auckland P.	1.0
10. Adams, Wellington	0.9

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

NIGERIA

DStv PBL: Rockets pick first season win, beat Immigration 67-62 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Tapgun Rockets basketball club of Jos on Wednesday recorded its first regular season win in a Savannah conference pairing of the DStv Premier Basketball League against Nigeria Immigration basketball club of Kano by 67-62 points.

The Coach Umar Bala tutored side who had dropped twelve of their thirteen regular season games showed great zeal against the visitored when they came calling on Wednesday at the sports facility of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

An elated Umar told our correspondence on phone that his boys just realise that the team cant go on losing week after week.

The former Kano Pillars basketball club points guard and captain gave assurance that the team will be better in the 2011/ 2012 season thanks to a Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) ruling which relegated Plateau Peaks basketball club.

Peaks who lost its week-13 regular season game to Yelwa Hawks basketball club of Bauchi by 80-113 points will try its luck in the less fancy national division-one come next season.

Peaks basketball club relegation came as a results of forfeiting two regular season games against Bauchi Nets and Kano Pillars, the team thus become the second casualty in the 2010/2011 season after Delta Force basketball club of Asaba suffered the same fate in the Atlantic conference of the league.

In another week-13 game played Wednesday in the Savannah conference of the DStv Premier League, defending champion, Kano Pillars basketball club defeated Niger Potters basketball club of Minna by 107-67 points while Kada Stars basketball club of Kaduna edge past Bauchi Nets basketball club by 78-66 points.

Savannah conference regular season will be rounded off on Sunday with two local derbies as Kano Pillars basketball club take on city rival Nigeria Immigration basketball club at the sports hall of the Sani Abacha stadium, Kano, Yelwa Hakws basketball club will go up against Bauchi Nets basketball club at the sport hall of the National Sport Commission centre in Bauchi. Tapgun Rockets basketball club will play host to Niger Potters basketball club of Minna in ABU, Zaria and relegated Plateau Peaks basketball club of Jos will entertain Kada Stars basketball club of Kaduna in Abuja.

DStv PBL Standings

DStv PBL Standings

Atlantic Conf.
1. Union Bank		13-1
2. Royal Hoopers		12-2
3. Comets		9-5
4. D.Warriors		8-6
5. Islanders		7-7
6. Police Baton		5-9
7. Chariots		1-13
8. Delta Force		1-13
Savannah Conf.
1. Kano Pillars		13-0
2. Kada Stars		10-3
3. Yelwa Hawks		9-4
4. Bauchi Nets		7-6
5. Niger Potters		5-8
6. Plateau Peaks		5-8
7. Immigration		2-11
8. Rockets		1-12

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

PERU

Standings - Superior

Superior Standings

1. Real Club		11-0
2. Regatas		9-1
3. Escuela Fap		8-3
4. Inmaculada		8-3
5. Centro Naval		4-7
6. Ejercito		4-7
7. San Marcos		2-9
8. Circolo/UAP		0-0
9. Real Amist.		0-0
10. Rinconada		0-0

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

PORTUGAL

Season Scout Lusitania - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
In their comeback to LPB, Lusitania Angra Patrimonio Mundial had no easy season, with their Head Coach leaving with just a few matches played and injury problems who make them renew their foreigner players during the season. But at the end, Lusitania Angra Patrimonio Mundial managed their main goal, keeping their place in LPB.

The Season
7 wins and 15 losses, it was enough to avoid relegation. Their most decisive wins were against Illiabum, the direct rival. Also, having beat Vitoria de Guimaraes in the last round was essential to survive in LPB. Lusitania Angra Patrimonio Mundial had a good group of players, but put their faith in the individual qualities, more than in team work. Thats the item they should work for next season, where theyll have another Azorean contestant in the main league.

The Player
James Robert (203-F/C-86, college: Dowling). He played only half of the season games, but he was decisive in the team success. Hes a very physical player and imposed his numbers, scoring 16.9 ppg and grabbing 9.7 rpg. Other player who deserves a note is Daniel Monteiro (182-G-82). The Portuguese guard was consistent during all the season, finishing with a 13.3 points and 5.2 assists average. He played all but one game and spend more than 30 minutes on court each game.

The Prospect
Charles Little (198-F-87, college: Dayton). In his first European season, Little made a good first half season and Germany and kept his good work in Lusitania Angra Patrimonio Mundial. Hes a good outside shooter, has a good Basketball IQ, shelling some assistances too. Lets hope he finds a good team to keep growing his skills in Europe.

Check for more: www.porbasket.blogspot.com

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

PUERTO RICO

Arecibo returns NT player Guillermo Diaz - by Eurobasket News
Guillermo Diaz (188-G-85, college: Miami, FL) is back to Arecibo. The 26-year-old guard signed a deal for rest of the season. He arrives from the Italian team Scavolini Siviglia Pesaro. He appeared 24 times in SerieA averaging 12.5 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists.
Last season with Arecibo, Guillermo Diaz had 13.5 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 2.7 apg. He helped them win the BSN title. In the past, Diaz was a member of Biella, Caserta, AEP Olimpia Patron and CEZ Basketball Nymburk. He also played few games for the Los Angeles Clippers on season 2007/08. Diaz is active member of the Puerto Rican National Team. At the latest World Championship in Turkey he had 1.2 ppg and 1.2 rpg for 5 games.

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

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

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game

Angel Daniel VASSALLO
  Guaynabo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 24.8

1. Vassallo, Guaynabo	24.8
2. Ramos, Quebradillas	23.8
3. Dalmau, Bayamon	21.7
4. Villegas, Coamo	19.6
5. Clemente, Humacao	19.0
6. Ayuso, Arecibo	18.7
7. Johnson, Humacao	18.6
8. Romero, Mayaguez	18.6
9. Clinch, Isabela	18.2
10. Carmona, Mayaguez	17.6

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Narvaez, Coamo	12.5
2. Randolph, Isabela	12.5
3. Pruitt, Guaynabo	11.8
4. Ramos, Quebradillas	11.1
5. Harris, San German	10.9
6. Lloreda, San G.	10.8
7. Rickert, Bayamon	10.5
8. Romero, Mayaguez	9.7
9. Shannon, Bayamon	9.4
10. Sweetney, Santur.	8.6

Assists Per Game

Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 6.6

1. Dalmau, Bayamon	6.6
2. Brown, Quebradillas	5.9
3. Guzman, Guaynabo	5.1
4. Copeland, Arecibo	4.8
5. Clemente, Humacao	4.8
6. Clinch, Isabela	4.7
7. Rivera, Mayaguez	4.3
8. Apodaca, Quebradil.	4.1
9. Vega, Coamo	4.1
10. Berdiel, Humacao	3.9

Steals Per Game

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

1. Robinson, Mayaguez	1.9
2. Hinson, Isabela	1.9
3. Santiago, Santurce	1.7
4. Clinch, Isabela	1.6
5. Berdiel, Humacao	1.6
6. Hodge, Santurce	1.5
7. Robinson, Humacao	1.5
8. Chaney, Santurce	1.4
9. Dalmau, Bayamon	1.4
10. Carmona, Mayaguez	1.4

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Lamizana, Mayaguez	3.0
2. Penn, Humacao	2.5
3. Santiago, Arecibo	2.1
4. Traylor, Bayamon	2.0
5. Romero, Mayaguez	1.9
6. Randolph, Isabela	1.7
7. Sanchez, Santurce	1.7
8. Aubry, Arecibo	1.6
9. Shannon, Bayamon	1.4
10. Robinson, Mayagu.	1.3

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

RUSSIA

Stats Leaders - Superleague A

Points Per Game

Tywain MCKEE
  Triumph
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 18.6

1. McKee, Triumph	18.6
2. Langford, Khimky	18.2
3. Lampe, Unics	17.2
4. Baxter, Enisey	16.6
5. Domercant, Spart.	16.5
6. Keyru, Dynamo	16.0
7. Williams, Enisey	14.8
8. Vyaltsev, Triumph	14.4
9. Labovic, Enisey	14.3
10. Beverley, Spart.	13.9

Rebounds Per Game

Alexey ZHUKANENKO
  Dynamo
  (210-F-86)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Zhukanenko, Dynamo	7.4
2. Lampe, Unics	7.2
3. Khryapa, CSKA	7.1
4. Beverley, Spart.	6.8
5. Baxter, Enisey	6.8
6. Monya, Khimky	6.4
7. Massey, Lokomotiv	6.4
8. Brezec, Krasnie	6.2
9. Wilkinson, Lokomot.	6.0
10. Paunic, N.Novgorod	5.4

Assists Per Game

Marcus WILLIAMS
  Enisey
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Williams, Enisey	6.8
2. Bremer, Krasnie	6.1
3. Vyaltsev, Triumph	5.4
4. Ponkrashov, Spart.	4.6
5. Khvostov, Dynamo	4.1
6. Popovic, Unics	4.0
7. Planinic, Khimky	3.9
8. Holden, CSKA	3.3
9. Rush, Krasnie Kril.	3.3
10. Samoylenko, Unics	3.2

Steals Per Game

Patrick BEVERLEY
  Spart.
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Beverley, Spart.	2.1
2. McKee, Triumph	1.9
3. Voronov, Dynamo	1.8
4. Bremer, Krasnie	1.5
5. Ponkrashov, Spart.	1.5
6. Surovtsev, Lokom.	1.4
7. Labovic, Enisey	1.4
8. Pashutin, Unics	1.4
9. Lyday, Unics	1.4
10. Domercant, Spart.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Sasha KAUN
  CSKA
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.3

1. Kaun, CSKA	1.3
2. Monya, Khimky	1.0
3. Yakovenko, N.Nov.	1.0
4. Varlamov, Triumph	0.9
5. Rizvic, Unics	0.8
6. Lampe, Unics	0.8
7. Likhodey, Triumph	0.8
8. Antonov, N.Novgor.	0.8
9. Zabelin, CSKA	0.8
10. Sokolov, CSKA	0.8

Standings - Superleague A

PBL Standings

1. Unics		21-6
2. CSKA		18-9
3. Lokomotiv		17-10
4. Khimky		17-10
5. Spartak SP		17-10
6. Enisey		12-15
7. Krasnie Krilya		10-17
8. N.Novgorod		10-17
9. Dynamo		8-19
10. Triumph		5-22

Superleague Round 2 of Semi-Finals. Spartak-Primorie reach Finals - by Eurobasket News
Univ.Surgut - Ural Ekaterinb. 93-88

Universitet Surgut defeated Ural at home court to force the decider. Ural led by one point after the starting frame but Universitet Surgut went on a decisive run in the next two frames and rallied to the victory at the end. Nikola Lepojevic (199-F-82, agency: BeoExcell) scored 23 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to lead the effort. Linas Lekavicius (185-G-84, college: American) added 16 points in the victory. Nikita Stepanenkov (207-C-87) replied with 15 points for Ural Ekaterinburg.

Spartak-Primorie - Saransk 94-75

Spartak-Primorie advanced into Superleague Finals. They swept the series versus Saransk. The game was mostly controlled by Spartak-Primorie. The hosts outscored Saransk 29:12 in the first frame and never looked back en route to the victory. Pavel Agapov (202-C-86, agency: RU-Basket Management) nailed 18 points, while Evgeni Baburin (193-G-87) added 17 in the winning case. Aleksandr Krylov (205-F-80) answered with 17 points for Saransk. Anton Ageev (195-G-84) had 14 in the loss.

PBL Round 27: Lokomotiv is defeated by BC Nizhny Novgorod - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in PBL just ended.

The game between third ranked Lokomotiv (17-10) and eighth ranked BC Nizhny Novgorod (10-17) was the most important one in the last round on Thursday night. Lokomotiv was defeated by BC Nizhny Novgorod in Kuban 89-76. The game was mostly controlled by BC Nizhny Novgorod. Lokomotiv managed to win fourth quarter 30-25. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. BC Nizhny Novgorod dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Lokomotiv's 26. It was a great evening for Serbian guard Nemanja Protic (182-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 4 assists. Forward Artem Yakovenko (206-88, agency: RU-Basket Management) helped adding 19 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American-FYR Macedonian forward Jeremiah Massey (202-82, college: Kansas St.) with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. BC Nizhny Novgorod claimed the eighth overall position in the regular season. Lokomotiv at the other side keeps the third position with ten games lost.
PBL top team - Unics Kazan (21-6) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed tenth ranked Triumph Lyubertsy (5-22) 90-69. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Triumph Lyubertsy. It was a quality performance for Bosnian-Slovenian center Hasan Rizvic (212-84) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 rebounds. Petr Samoylenko accounted for 13 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international guard Egor Vyaltsev (192-85) came up with 12 points and 7 assists for Triumph Lyubertsy in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Unics Kazan have a solid series of four victories in a row. They clinched the first place with 21-6 record. Triumph Lyubertsy at the other side stay dead last with 22 lost games.
Second ranked CSKA Moscow (18-9) crushed at home 7th ranked Krasnie Krilya (10-17) by 21 points 86-65, which is the biggest margin this round on Thursday night. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Krasnie Krilya. The best player for the winners was Viktor Khryapa who scored 15 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. At the other side the best for losing team was Konstantin Nesterov who recorded 14 points and 6 rebounds. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Defending champion finished in the second place with 18-9 record having just three points less than leader Unics. Loser Krasnie Krilya keeps the seventh position with 17 games lost.

In the last two games of round 27 Enisey lost to Spartak SP on the opponent's court 74-82. Khimky managed to outperform Dynamo in a home game 86-78.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 21 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals by Patrick Beverley of Spartak SP.

Spartak SP - Enisey 82-74

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 6th ranked Enisey Krasnoyarsk's (12-15) road loss to fifth ranked Spartak St.Petersburg (17-10) 74-82 on Thursday. Enisey Krasnoyarsk trailed by 16 points after 3 quarters before a 18-10 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 74-82 at the end of the game. Spartak St.Petersburg forced 22 Enisey Krasnoyarsk turnovers. The best player for the winners was American guard Patrick Beverley (185-88, college: Arkansas) who had a double-double by scoring 21 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals. Slovenian power forward Miha Zupan (205-82) chipped in 13 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Pavel Sergeev (187-87, agency: RIZO) who recorded 13 points and 4 assists and guard Aleksei Savkov (196-79, agency: Alti Sport) added 13 points respectively. Four Enisey Krasnoyarsk players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Spartak St.Petersburg occupied the fifth place. Enisey Krasnoyarsk lost third consecutive game. They remained in the sixth position with 15 games lost.
Top scorers:
Spartak SP: P.Beverley 21+10reb+8ast, A.Bashminov 15+3reb, M.Zupan 13+5reb+1ast, H.Domercant 9+3reb+2ast, A.Ponkrashov 8+2reb+1ast, A.Zozulin 6+2reb+3ast
Enisey: P.Sergeev 13+3reb+4ast, A.Savkov 13+4reb+2ast, K.Pinkney 12+2reb+3ast, D.Labovic 11+2reb+1ast, L.Baxter 7+6reb+1ast, M.Williams 6+1reb+1ast

Lokomotiv - N.Novgorod 76-89

The game between third ranked Lokomotiv (17-10) and eighth ranked BC Nizhny Novgorod (10-17) was the most important one in the last round on Thursday night. Lokomotiv was defeated by BC Nizhny Novgorod in Kuban 89-76. The game was mostly controlled by BC Nizhny Novgorod. Lokomotiv managed to win fourth quarter 30-25. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. BC Nizhny Novgorod dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Lokomotiv's 26. It was a great evening for Serbian guard Nemanja Protic (182-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 4 assists. Forward Artem Yakovenko (206-88, agency: RU-Basket Management) helped adding 19 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American-FYR Macedonian forward Jeremiah Massey (202-82, college: Kansas St.) with 18 points and 8 rebounds and guard Maxim Grigoryev (195-90) scored 13 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. BC Nizhny Novgorod finished in the eighth position in the ladder. Lokomotiv at the other side keeps the third position with ten games lost.
Top scorers:
N.Novgorod: N.Protic 20+3reb+4ast, A.Yakovenko 19+8reb, I.Paunic 13+5reb+2ast, V.Yurchyk 8+1reb+1ast, O.Baranov 7+4reb+2ast, A.Pustahvar 6+1reb
Lokomotiv: J.Massey 18+8reb+3ast, M.Grigoryev 13+3reb+1ast, G.Jeretin 11+2ast, A.Tucker 8+1reb, G.Shukhovtsov 6+2reb, Y.Vasiliev 5+1reb

CSKA - Krasnie Krilya 86-65

Second ranked CSKA Moscow (18-9) crushed at home 7th ranked Krasnie Krilya (10-17) by 21 points 86-65, which is the biggest margin this round on Thursday night. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Krasnie Krilya. The game without a history. CSKA Moscow led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. CSKA Moscow looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was the former international swingman Viktor Khryapa (204-82) who scored 15 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Naturalized Kyrgyzstani guard Denis Polokhin (195-90) chipped in 12 points and 6 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was power forward Konstantin Nesterov (205-81, college: VCU) who recorded 14 points and 6 rebounds and American-Bosnian guard Ernest Bremer (195-80, college: St.Bonaventure, agency: Higher Vision Sports) added 6 points and 10 assists respectively. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Defending champion clinched the second place with 18-9 record having just three points less than leader Unics. Loser Krasnie Krilya keeps the seventh position with 17 games lost.
Top scorers:
CSKA: S.Kaun 16+3reb+1ast, V.Khryapa 15+8reb+4ast, D.Polokhin 12+6reb+3ast, A.Shved 7+6reb+3ast, A.Vorontsevich 6+5reb, S.Bykov 6+2ast
Krasnie Krilya: K.Nesterov 14+6reb+2ast, A.Trushkin 10+5reb, A.Kuzyakin 8+6reb, V.Zvarykin 7+1reb, B.Rush 7+3reb, E.Bremer 6+1reb+10ast

Khimky - Dynamo 86-78

Very predictable result in Khimki where third ranked Khimky (17-10) defeated 9th ranked Dynamo Moscow (8-19) 86-78 on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 86-78. Khimky forced 20 Dynamo Moscow turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was Eritrean-Polish swingman Thomas Kelati (195-82, college: Washington St., agency: Beo Basket) who scored 30 points and 5 steals. The former international center Alexey Savrasenko (215-79) chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds. Four Khimky players scored in double figures. Khimky's coach Rimas Kurtinaitis used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to get some rest. At the other side the best for losing team was international forward Alexey Zhukanenko (210-86, agency: Alti Sport) who recorded 16 points and 8 rebounds and the former international guard Victor Keyru (199-84) added 13 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Khimky finished in the third place with 17-10 record having four points less than leader Unics. Loser Dynamo Moscow keeps the ninth position with 19 games lost.
Top scorers:
Khimky: T.Kelati 30+1reb+1ast, K.Loncar 14+1reb+3ast, V.Fridzon 14+3reb, A.Savrasenko 11+5reb+2ast, Z.Planinic 7+5reb+2ast, T.Hansen 5+1reb+4ast
Dynamo: P.Gubanov 16+2reb, A.Zhukanenko 16+8reb+1ast, V.Keyru 13+5reb+2ast, E.Voronov 9+1reb+5ast, A.Urazmanov 9+1ast, N.Shabalkin 8+3reb

Unics - Triumph 90-69

PBL top team - Unics Kazan (21-6) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed tenth ranked Triumph Lyubertsy (5-22) 90-69. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Triumph Lyubertsy. The game without a history. Unics Kazan led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Unics Kazan outrebounded Triumph Lyubertsy 45-31 including a 33-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. Triumph Lyubertsy was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a quality performance for Bosnian-Slovenian center Hasan Rizvic (212-84) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 rebounds. The former international guard Petr Samoylenko (185-77) accounted for 13 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for the winning side. Five Unics Kazan players scored in double figures. The former international guard Egor Vyaltsev (192-85) came up with 12 points and 7 assists and center Aleksei Kurcevich (209-89) added 13 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Triumph Lyubertsy in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Unics Kazan have a solid series of four victories in a row. They celebrated the first place with 21-6 record. Triumph Lyubertsy at the other side stay dead last with 22 lost games.
Top scorers:
Unics: R.Minard 14+5reb, Z.Pashutin 14+4reb+1ast, T.Lyday 13+4reb, P.Samoylenko 13+7reb+5ast, H.Rizvic 13+12reb+1ast, M.Popovic 8
Triumph: A.Kurcevich 13+5reb, E.Vyaltsev 12+4reb+7ast, S.Karasev 10+4ast, V.Likhodey 9+4reb+1ast, T.McKee 8+4reb+1ast, A.Vikhrov 6+4reb

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

SERBIA

Tadija Dragicevic shines with ALBA in German league Semifinals - by Eurobasket News
German league Semifinals started last night and ALBA already made a break. The team from Berlin handed 80-81 home loss to Deutsche Bank Skyliners taking 1-0 lead in the series. Serbian power forward Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) had very important role in this victory. He collected 10 points and 5 rebounds for 22 minutes on the court. Another Serbian in ALBA, Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88) had 6 points and 4 assists in 15 minutes. It was a great win for the former champion and next game is scheduled for Saturday.
In the other Semifinals, Brose Baskets was too strong for the Aartland Dragons 85-73 at home. It was expected win by the regular season champion. Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) led his team to victory with 14 points and 6 boards for 22 minutes. Two teams will meet again on Saturday.

Superleague, Round 13: FMP beats Crvena Zvezda - by Eurobasket News
There will be only one (last) round of the Superleague.

The most exciting game of the Superleague Round 13 took place in Valjevo. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 3rd placed Radnicki (7-6) to sixth ranked Metalac (5-8) 78-76 on Wednesday evening. The hosts trailed by 14 points after three quarters before their 24-8 charge, which allowed them to win the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Radnicki helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Marko Ljubicic (197-87) who helped to win the game recording a triple-double by scoring 14 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists. Power forward Stefan Bircevic (209-89) contributed with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. American forward Michael Lee (207-86) answered with 19 points and 7 rebounds for Radnicki. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Metalac moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Crvena Zvezda. Radnicki at the other side keeps the third position with six games lost. Metalac is looking forward to face OKK Beograd (#7) on the road in the next round. Radnicki will play against FMP Zeleznik (#4) in Beograd and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Beograd: FMP Zeleznik (#5) and Crvena Zvezda (#4). FMP Zeleznik (6-7) won against visiting Crvena Zvezda (5-8) 97-87. Naturalized Bosnian center Mile Ilic (215-C-84, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and Filip Covic chipped in 17 points and 4 assists. FMP Zeleznik's coach Aco Petrovic allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the losing side guard Nemanja Nedovic (192-91, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 21 points and 4 assists. FMP Zeleznik moved-up to fourth place. Crvena Zvezda lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fifth position with eight games lost. They share it with Metalac. FMP Zeleznik will play against higher ranked Radnicki (#3) in Kragujevac in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Crvena Zvezda will play at home against Mega Vizura and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A League top team - Partizan (12-1) managed to deliver another win on Tuesday. This time they beat eighth ranked Mega Vizura (3-10) 80-68. Jan Vesely nailed 17 points for the winning side. Vasilije Micic came up with 14 points and 7 assists for Mega Vizura in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Partizan have an impressive series of ten victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 12-1 record. Loser Mega Vizura keeps the eighth position with ten games lost. Partizan will meet at home league's second-placed Hemofarm in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Mega Vizura will play against Crvena Zvezda (#6) in Beograd and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 13 Beograd was beaten by Hemofarm on the road 83-79.

FMP - Crvena Zvezda 97-87

Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Beograd: FMP Zeleznik (#5) and Crvena Zvezda (#4). FMP Zeleznik (6-7) won against visiting Crvena Zvezda (5-8) 97-87. Crvena Zvezda was ahead by 2 points after three quarters before a 27-15 charge of FMP Zeleznik, which allowed them to win the game. They also forced 21 Crvena Zvezda turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Naturalized Bosnian center Mile Ilic (215-84, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and guard Filip Covic (180-89, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 17 points and 4 assists. FMP Zeleznik's coach Aco Petrovic allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the losing side guard Nemanja Nedovic (192-91, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 21 points and 4 assists and Montenegrin guard Boris Bakic (194-86, agency: Beo Basket) scored 18 points and 5 rebounds. Four Crvena Zvezda players scored in double figures. FMP Zeleznik moved-up to fourth place. Crvena Zvezda lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fifth position with eight games lost. They share it with Metalac. FMP Zeleznik will play against higher ranked Radnicki (#3) in Kragujevac in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Crvena Zvezda will play at home against Mega Vizura and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Crvena Zvezda: N.Nedovic 21+2reb+4ast, B.Bakic 18+5reb+3ast, U.Nikolic 17+3reb+1ast, S.Dragicevic 13+5reb+1ast, V.Subotic 10+5reb+1ast, S.Lesic 7+10reb
FMP: M.Ilic 26+10reb, F.Covic 17+4ast, B.Bowman 14+1reb+1ast, M.Dimic 8+4reb+3ast, V.Radivojevic 8+3reb+8ast, V.Ivelja 8+3reb+2ast

Metalac - Radnicki 78-76

The most exciting game of Superleague Round 13 took place in Valjevo. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 3rd placed Radnicki (7-6) to sixth ranked Metalac (5-8) 78-76 on Wednesday evening. The hosts trailed by 14 points after three quarters before their 24-8 charge, which allowed them to win the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Radnicki helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Marko Ljubicic (197-87) who helped to win the game recording a triple-double by scoring 14 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists. Power forward Stefan Bircevic (209-89) contributed with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. American forward Michael Lee (207-86) answered with 19 points and 7 rebounds and naturalized Australian guard Steven Markovic (190-85) added 18 points and 7 assists in the effort for Radnicki. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Metalac moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Crvena Zvezda. Radnicki at the other side keeps the third position with six games lost. Metalac is looking forward to face OKK Beograd (#7) on the road in the next round. Radnicki will play against FMP Zeleznik (#4) in Beograd and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Radnicki: M.Lee 19+7reb+1ast, S.Markovic 18+1reb+7ast, P.Miletic 14+4reb, D.Mijatovic 13+3reb+1ast, M.Cakarevic 6+3reb+3ast, M.Spica 2+1reb
Metalac: S.Bircevic 22+6reb+1ast, R.Marojevic 15+4reb+2ast, M.Ljubicic 14+10reb+11ast, M.Trtic 12+7reb+1ast, D.Kruscic 6+2reb+3ast, N.Tomasevic 5+1reb+1ast

Hemofarm - Beograd 83-79

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Hemofarm (10-3) beat 7th ranked OKK Beograd (4-9) in Vrsac 83-79 on Tuesday. However just four-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But OKK Beograd won third quarter 24-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hemofarm dominated on the defensive end, holding OKK Beograd to just 7 points in second quarter. They made 17-of-19 free shots (89.5 percent) during the game. Forward Boris Savovic (206-87) nailed 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side and Montenegrin guard Miljan Pavkovic (178-81, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 15 points and 7 assists. Five Hemofarm players scored in double figures. Power forward Dragan Zekovic (210-87, agency: Interperformances) came up with 32 points and 5 rebounds and center Uros Lucic (207-83) added 23 points and 6 rebounds respectively for OKK Beograd in the defeat. Hemofarm maintains second place with 10-3 record having just two points less than leader Tamis. Loser OKK Beograd keeps the seventh position with nine games lost. Hemofarm will meet league's leader Partizan in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. OKK Beograd will play against Metalac (#5) in Valjevo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Beograd: D.Zekovic 32+5reb+1ast, U.Lucic 23+6reb+1ast, S.Dundjerski 11+5reb+10ast, A.Tanaskovic 6+1reb+2ast, D.Mitrovic 3+2reb+5ast, M.Pavlovic 2+2reb
Hemofarm: B.Savovic 21+7reb, M.Pavkovic 15+4reb+7ast, B.Krstovic 14+2reb+2ast, M.Bozovic 10+8reb+2ast, M.Jeremic 10+3reb, U.Petrovic 5+1reb+1ast

Mega Vizura - Partizan 68-80

A League top team - Partizan (12-1) managed to deliver another win on Tuesday. This time they beat eighth ranked Mega Vizura (3-10) 80-68. The guests trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and won the game by 12 points. Partizan forced 21 Mega Vizura turnovers. Czech forward Jan Vesely (211-90) nailed 17 points for the winning side and American guard Curtis Jerrells (185-87, college: Baylor) accounted for 14 points. Guard Vasilije Micic (192-94, agency: Beo Basket) came up with 14 points and 7 assists and guard Stefan Matovic (203-91) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Mega Vizura in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Partizan have an impressive series of ten victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 12-1 record. Loser Mega Vizura keeps the eighth position with ten games lost. Partizan will meet at home league's second-placed Hemofarm in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Mega Vizura will play against Crvena Zvezda (#6) in Beograd and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Mega Vizura: V.Micic 14+2reb+7ast, D.Cantekin 12+2reb, S.Matovic 11+5reb+1ast, S.Jelovac 8+6reb+2ast, D.Cvetkovic 6+1reb, P.Reljic 5+4reb+1ast
Partizan: J.Vesely 17+4reb, C.Jerrells 14+2reb+3ast, J.Gist 9+4reb+1ast, D.Milosavljevic 8+4reb+2ast, N.Jawai 7+4reb+1ast, R.Katic 6+3reb+1ast

Standings - A Liga

A Standings

SuperLeague
1. Partizan		12-1
2. Hemofarm		10-3
3. Radnicki		7-6
4. FMP		6-7
5. Metalac		5-8
6. Crvena Zvezda		5-8
7. Beograd		4-9
8. Mega Vizura		3-10
Places 9-16
1. Tamis		15-11
2. Napredak		12-14
3. Sloga		12-14
4. Novi Sad		12-14
5. Sloboda Uzice		12-14
6. Vojvodina		12-14
7. Borac		11-15
8. Proleter Naftagas		10-16
9. Crnokosa		9-17
10. Superfund		1-25

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game

Branko MILISAVLJEVIC
  Mega V.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 20.3

1. Milisavljevi., Meg.	20.3
2. Janjusevic, Crnok.	18.8
3. Sinovec, Metalac	18.2
4. Micevic, Sloboda	17.6
5. Bozovic, Sloga	17.4
6. Nikolic, Crvena Z.	16.7
7. Bunic, Novi Sad	16.6
8. Zekovic, Beograd	16.4
9. Kovacevic, Super.	16.3
10. Majkic, Prolet.	16.2

Rebounds Per Game

Sava LESIC
  Crvena Z.
  (205-C/F-88)
  Avg: 11.2

1. Lesic, Crvena Z.	11.2
2. Savovic, Hemofarm	8.1
3. Markovic, FMP	7.8
4. Ljubicic, Metalac	7.5
5. Nikolic, Crvena Z.	7.3
6. Cantekin, Mega V.	6.8
7. Lee, Radnicki	6.7
8. Majkic, Prolet.	6.6
9. Bozovic, Sloga	6.4
10. Cubrilo, Sloga	6.4

Assists Per Game

Marko LJUBICIC
  Metalac
  (197-F-87)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Ljubicic, Metalac	6.3
2. Pavkovic, Hemofarm	6.1
3. Zarkovic, Prolet.	6.0
4. Vlahovic, Sloga	5.1
5. Radivojevic, FMP	5.1
6. Covic, FMP	4.8
7. Bakic, Crvena Z.	4.8
8. Mitrovic, Beograd	4.8
9. Milisavljevi., Meg.	4.7
10. Markovic, Radnicki	4.5

Steals Per Game

Slobodan DUNDJERSKI
  Beograd
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Dundjerski, Beograd	2.9
2. Kuzeta, Novi Sad	2.7
3. Gagovic, Prolet.	2.3
4. Ljubicic, Metalac	2.2
5. Mukanovic, Crnok.	2.0
6. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	2.0
7. Jovic, Sloga	1.9
8. Kovacevic, Novi S.	1.9
9. Bakic, Crvena Z.	1.8
10. Vulin, Prolet.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Bircevic, Metalac	1.3
2. Ilic, FMP	1.2
3. Majkic, Prolet.	1.1
4. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	0.9
5. Ljubojevic, Slobod.	0.8
6. Nikolic, Crvena Z.	0.8
7. Cantekin, Mega V.	0.8
8. Lee, Radnicki	0.8
9. Buric, Tamis	0.8
10. Djekic, Mega V.	0.8

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SLOVENIA

Standings - D2

D2 Standings

East
1. Radenska		21-1
2. Terme Olimia		17-5
3. Bistrica		17-5
4. Dravograd		15-7
5. Posavlje Krsko		12-10
6. Jezica		12-10
7. Mavrica		11-11
8. Lastovka		9-13
9. Vrani		7-15
10. Nazarje		5-17
11. Fenomeni		5-17
12. Union Olim. II		1-21
West
1. Jance		19-3
2. Ajdovscina		17-5
3. Plama Pur		14-8
4. Tolmin		14-8
5. Strazisce		13-9
6. Kos Koper		12-10
7. Jesenice		11-11
8. Pingvini S.		9-13
9. Krka II		8-14
10. Crnomelj		8-14
11. Ilirija		4-18
12. Globus		3-19

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SOUTH AFRICA

SPAIN

Chad Topper signs contract extension with CAI Zaragoza - by Eurobasket News
CAI Zaragoza extended their contract with Chad Toppert (201-G-85, college: N.Mexico). The US-German guard will stay for two more seasons in Spain. Chad Toppert joined CAI Zaragoza at the start of the season. He tallied 5.9 points, 1.2 boards per game for the team. Last season Chad Toppert spent in D-League. The guard notched 11.1 points, 3.6 boards and 1.3 assists per game for the Albuquerque Thunderbirds. Chad Toppert is the member of German National Team.

ACB: Jaycee Carroll is MVP of May - by Eurobasket News
The regular season in ACB ended last weekend and eight best teams already prepare for the Playoffs. First game will tip-off tonight (Regal Barca - Unicja). In the meantime, the league announced that Jaycee Carroll (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports) won the MVP award for May. The American scoring machine averaged 23.7 points in three games with his Gran Canaria. His average valuation was 23. Granca registered three straight wins beating Unicaja, Valencia and Granada.
Jaycee Carroll joined Granca two years ago from Banca Tercas Teramo. In their first season Carroll was the best scorer of ACB with 18.8 ppg. This season, he appeared 34 times in the league so far registering even better numbers: 19.6 ppg, 3 rpg and 1.2 apg. Granca reached the Quarterfinals as No.5 with 21-13 record. They will meet Caja Laboral.

Stats Leaders - ACB

Points Per Game

Jaycee CARROLL
  Gran Canaria
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 19.6

1. Carroll, Gran Cana.	19.6
2. Navarro, Regal B.	16.4
3. Fitch, Unicaja	15.6
4. McDonald, DKV J.	15.3
5. Baron, Lagun A.	15.0
6. Caner-Medley, Estu.	14.4
7. Teletovic, Caja L.	14.3
8. Martinez, Valencia	13.9
9. Davis, Cajasol	13.2
10. Freeland, Unicaja	13.2

Rebounds Per Game

Robert KURZ
  Granada
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 9.1

1. Kurz, Granada	9.1
2. Batista, Fuenlabr.	8.4
3. Caner-Medley, Estu.	7.6
4. Barac, Caja Laboral	7.0
5. Donaldson, Menorca	6.9
6. Ayon, Fuenlabrada	6.3
7. Wallace, Gran Cana.	6.2
8. Slokar, Manresa	6.2
9. Doellman, Meridiano	6.2
10. Freeland, Unicaja	6.1

Assists Per Game

Marcelinho HUERTAS
  Caja L.
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Huertas, Caja L.	5.9
2. Cook, Valencia	5.5
3. Ciorciari, Menorca	4.9
4. Valters, Fuenlabr.	4.5
5. Salgado, Lagun A.	4.3
6. Rubio, Regal Barca	4.3
7. Green, Gran Canaria	4.0
8. Dumas, Valladolid	3.9
9. San Miguel, Manre.	3.9
10. Prigioni, Real Ma.	3.9

Steals Per Game

Omar-Sharif COOK
  Valencia
  (186-G-82)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Cook, Valencia	2.2
2. Kirksay, Cajasol	1.9
3. Calloway, Cajasol	1.8
4. Batista, Fuenlabr.	1.8
5. Robinson, DKV J.	1.8
6. Rubio, Regal Barca	1.7
7. Ayon, Fuenlabrada	1.6
8. Davis, Cajasol	1.5
9. Van Lacke, Vallado.	1.5
10. Victor, Menorca	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Bismack BIYOMBO
  Fuenlabr.
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Biyombo, Fuenlabr.	2.3
2. Fischer, Real Madr.	1.6
3. Ayon, Fuenlabrada	1.4
4. Vazquez, Regal B.	1.4
5. Kurz, Granada	1.3
6. Barnes, Valladolid	1.3
7. Savane, Gran C.	1.1
8. Batista, Fuenlabr.	1.1
9. Barac, Caja Laboral	1.1
10. Andriuskevic., Me.	1.0

Stats Leaders-LEB Silver

Points Per Game

Matt WITT
  Clavijo
  (183-PG-84)
  Avg: 16.4

1. Witt, Clavijo	16.4
2. Barcelo, Plasencia	15.7
3. O''Leary, Oviedo F.	15.4
4. Ramsdell, Avila	15.4
5. Paez, Lan M.	15.0
6. Bratton, Lan M.	14.9
7. Mortellaro, Lan M.	14.8
8. Ratzsch, Oviedo F.	14.7
9. Mesa, Clavijo	14.7
10. Bivia, Mallorca	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

Olaseni LAWAL
  Guadalajara
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Lawal, Guadalajara	10.8
2. O''Leary, Oviedo F.	9.3
3. De Santana, Clavijo	8.8
4. Chubrevich, Illesc.	8.4
5. Mortellaro, Lan M.	8.1
6. Mesa, Clavijo	7.9
7. Adams, Coruna	7.8
8. Ramsdell, Avila	7.6
9. Larry, Regal F.	7.1
10. Howard, Andorra	6.9

Assists Per Game

Matt WITT
  Clavijo
  (183-PG-84)
  Avg: 6

1. Witt, Clavijo	6.0
2. Uriz, Santurtzi	5.0
3. Ibargutxi, Lan M.	5.0
4. Lopez, Coruna	4.6
5. Bivia, Mallorca	3.8
6. Pampin, Mallorca	3.6
7. Marco, ADT T.	3.5
8. Machuca, Illescas	3.4
9. Rufian, Promobys	3.3
10. Lopez, Avila	3.2

Steals Per Game

Mikel URIZ
  Santurtzi
  (180-G-89)
  Avg: 2

1. Uriz, Santurtzi	2.0
2. Barcelo, Plasencia	2.0
3. Adams, Coruna	1.9
4. Smith, Guadalajara	1.8
5. Bratton, Lan M.	1.8
6. Witt, Clavijo	1.7
7. Martinez, Plasencia	1.7
8. Rueda, Plasencia	1.5
9. Lopez, Coruna	1.5
10. Guirao, ADT T.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Bismack BIYOMBO
  Illescas
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Biyombo, Illescas	1.9
2. Mbaye, Regal F.	1.8
3. Todorovic, Prat J.	1.4
4. De Santana, Clavijo	1.3
5. Lawal, Guadalajara	1.3
6. Conde, Avila	1.2
7. Green, Mallorca	1.2
8. Cage, ADT Tarrago.	1.0
9. O''Leary, Oviedo F.	0.9
10. Marti, Prat J.	0.9

Stats Leaders - LEB Gold

Points Per Game

Ricardo GUILLEN
  La Laguna
  (205-F/C-76)
  Avg: 19.4

1. Guillen, La Laguna	19.4
2. Palacios, La Palma	16.8
3. Mohammed, Lleida	16.2
4. Detrick, Melilla	15.7
5. Feldeine, Breogan	15.2
6. Seawright, Leon	15.2
7. Faverani, CB Mu.	14.9
8. Navarro, Girona	14.9
9. Franklin, CB Tarra.	14.8
10. Johnson, Huesca	14.2

Rebounds Per Game

Dwayne CURTIS
  Lleida
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 9.2

1. Curtis, Lleida	9.2
2. Wachsmann, Alcazar	9.2
3. Sinanovic, Clinic.	8.0
4. Seawright, Leon	7.8
5. Guillen, La Laguna	7.5
6. Kale, Ourense	7.2
7. Arteaga, Breogan	7.1
8. Blair, Navarra	7.0
9. Frost, Palencia	6.9
10. Chagoyen, La Lag.	6.9

Assists Per Game

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

1. Aguilar, CB Tarra.	4.6
2. Rodriguez, Obrad.	4.6
3. Sabat, La Laguna	3.9
4. Bernabe, Leon	3.5
5. Brown, Ourense	3.5
6. Jimenez, Melilla	3.5
7. Rivero, CB Murcia	3.3
8. Quezada, Leon	3.2
9. Lopez, Burgos	3.0
10. Alvarado, La Palma	2.9

Steals Per Game

Andres RODRIGUEZ
  Obrad.
  (182-PG-81)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Rodriguez, Obrad.	2.2
2. Bernabe, Leon	1.8
3. Rost, Girona	1.7
4. Xavier, Caceres	1.6
5. Franklin, CB Tarra.	1.6
6. Palacios, La Palma	1.5
7. Castro, Burgos	1.5
8. Alba, CB Tarragona	1.4
9. Feldeine, Breogan	1.4
10. Johnson, Huesca	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Jeff FOOTE
  Melilla
  (212-C-88)
  Avg: 2

1. Foote, Melilla	2.0
2. Humphrey, Caceres	1.5
3. Hicks, Breogan	1.4
4. Fontet, Leon	1.3
5. Sinanovic, Clinic.	1.2
6. Diouf, CB Tarragona	1.2
7. Joseph, Navarra	1.2
8. Faverani, CB Mu.	1.1
9. Starosta, Ourense	1.0
10. Arteaga, Breogan	1.0

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TURKEY

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. Seibutis, Olin Edi.	19.0
6. Smith, Karsiyaka	18.8
7. Kemp, Besiktas	17.9
8. Randle, Aliaga	17.5
9. Mays, Oyak Renault	17.2
10. Scales, Mersin	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	4.2

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. Ermis, Banvit	1.6
10. Chatman, Besiktas	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. Francis, Bornova	1.3
4. Johnson, Erdemir	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. Simpsons, Turk T.	0.8

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

V.I. Boxers Get an Assist from NBA's Tim Duncan - by David Edole
By James Gardner May 18, 2011

The websites say that Tim Duncan (208-F-76, college: Wake Forest) 's wingspan is seven feet three inches, but on Wednesday it appeared much longer, stretching all the way to the territory to provide some much-needed equipment for the V.I. Boxing Federation.

Duncan is the primary backer behind the Caribbean Education Initiative, whose representative, Rashidi Clenance, said the organization just wants to give back, and found a willing recipient in the boxers, who received 20 sets of gloves and three pieces of head gear, along with a boxing pad and mitts.

'We saw what they were doing in the gym here with Julian Jackson, and we just wanted to support, we just wanted to help,' Clenance said after handing out the equipment to the boxers. While the organization's efforts are now gaining strength in the community, Clenance said it has long been helping to support local basketball through Hood Hoops, which sponsors tournaments throughout the territory.

Clenance said the organization now wants to expand and help support all sports, along with educational initiatives. Through Hood Hoops, the organization plans to work with the University of the Virgin Islands next season to provide tutoring for the students and has also financed a seven-year reading program. Other beneficiaries include the St. Croix Educational Complex Steel Orchestra, the V.I. Swimming Federation and V.I. Weightlifting Federation.

Clenance said that while the organization gets a small monthly allotment for its donations, he hopes the community will see what it has been doing and 'get behind us with support.'

The Boxing Federation's gym is located in Paul M. Pearson Gardens, and Clenance said that while in the area for Hood Hoops games, he noticed the condition of the building and the boxers' equipment.

'I see how many people are in this small facility, and I see how they try to maximize it, and at least we can help give the tools to help these kids succeed,' he said about the organization's latest donation.

Renowned three-time world boxing champion Julian Jackson runs the federation's program on St. Thomas and said much of the equipment was long overdue for an upgrade.

'We have a few head gears that are run-down, and with the new ones that we have now, it will help the guys from getting injured,' Jackson said. 'And not only the head gear but the gloves as well; some of them are busted, with the cotton coming out -- they have a little more knuckle than anything else. Some of them are going in the garbage for sure, now.'

Jackson said donations such as the one made Wednesday help boost the local program by making its students feel like they have the support of the community.

'Especially with the kids knowing that there are people that are concerned, that there are people in the community that really want to do something positive, it makes the kids feel really wanted and that they have a purpose and that helps our program tremendously,' he said. 'And we really need the equipment, and I think it's going to go a long way, it's going to do a lot.

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

UKRAINE

Superleague Round 2 of Finals. BC Donetsk celebrate first win - by Eurobasket News

3-4 place

Hoverla - Ferro-ZNTU 73-71

Hoverla stepped in front in the Bronze medals series. They narrowly defeated Ferro-ZNTU at home court. The hosts were already 11 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 25-16 Ferro-ZNTU's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 73-71 at the end of the game. Hoverla had a 27-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. American center Eric Coleman (200-85, college: N.Iowa, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) orchestrated the victory by scoring 12 points and 9 rebounds. Belarusian power forward Pavel Ulyanko (204-79) contributed with 15 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Belarusian forward Heorhi Kandrusevich (198-78, agency: Promotex) replied with 15 points and 6 rebounds and American center R.T. Guinn (208-81, college: Baylor) added 11 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Ferro-ZNTU. Five Ferro-ZNTU players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Hoverla: P.Ulyanko 15+5reb+2ast, E.Coleman 12+9reb+3ast, J.Chappell 12+6reb+2ast, A.Poltoratskiy 11+3reb, D.Swanson 9+5reb+3ast, D.Zimmerman 8+5reb+7ast
Ferro-ZNTU: H.Kandrusevich 15+6reb, V.Hunter 12+4reb+1ast, C.Burns 12+6reb, R.Guinn 11+5reb+4ast, A.Rybalko 10+3reb+3ast, R.Harris 7+2reb+2ast

FINAL

BC Donetsk - Budivelnyk 72-53

BC Donetsk bounced back in the title series thumping Budivelnyk in the second home game. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 11-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 72-53. BC Donetsk dominated on the defensive end, holding Budivelnyk to just 5 points in fourth quarter. They outrebounded Budivelnyk 37-26 including 25 on the defensive glass. 29 personal fouls committed by Budivelnyk helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American power forward J.K. Edwards (202-82, college: UNLV) who scored 11 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. International forward Dmytro Gliebov (198-88, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 8 points and 8 rebounds. American forward Zach Morley (203-83, college: Wisconsin) produced 7 points and 7 rebounds and British center Andrew Betts (216-77, college: Long Beach St.) added 10 points respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
BC Donetsk: B.Cvetkovic 11+7reb, J.Edwards 11+5reb+4ast, J.Gray 10+2reb+2ast, J.Hukic 9+2reb+1ast, S.Vasiljevic 8+2reb+2ast, D.Gliebov 8+8reb+2ast
Budivelnyk: W.Keys 11+1reb, A.Betts 10+4reb, D.Lukashov 8+4reb, D.Zabirchenko 7+3reb+1ast, Z.Morley 7+7reb+1ast, L.Wilson 6+2reb

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.	16.3
5. Curry, Azovmash	16.1
6. Wiggins, Halychyna	15.1
7. Millage, Khimik	14.9
8. Love, Mykolaiv	14.7
9. Fraser, DniproAzot	14.5
10. Bakic, Kryvbasb.	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.	7.9
4. Saltovets, BC Kyiv	7.6
5. Austin, Dnipro	7.3
6. Morrison, Halyc.	7.2
7. Chappell, Hoverla	6.6
8. Owens, Azovmash	6.6
9. Coleman, Hoverla	6.5
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. Millage, Khimik	4.5
7. Vasiljevic, BC Do.	4.5
8. Brewer, BC Odessa	4.5
9. Slipenchuk, Kryvba.	4.2
10. Sirsnins, DniproA.	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. Burenko, BC Kyiv	1.4
8. Sirsnins, DniproAz.	1.4
9. Chappell, Hoverla	1.4
10. Love, Mykolaiv	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

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

VENEZUELA

Standings - LPB

LPB Standings

1. Cocodrilos		27-7
2. Marinos		26-9
3. Trotamundos		25-10
4. Gigantes		20-18
5. Guaiqueries		19-17
6. Bucaneros		19-17
7. Panteras		15-22
8. Guaros		12-24
9. Toros		12-25
10. Gaiteros		5-31

LEB Standings

LEB Standings

Central Conference
1. Saurios		19-4
2. Felinos		10-13
3. Estrellas		9-11
Eastern Conference
1. Anzoategui		12-9
2. Portuarios		9-12
3. Pescadores		8-10
4. Acereros		8-14
Western Conference
1. Dragones		18-4
2. Guardianes		10-11
3. Furreros		3-18

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Women News

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AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women

DR Congo will play at 2011 AfroBasket - by Eurobasket News
Democratic Republic of Congo will participate at the 2011 AfroBasket. The team was given a wild card to join the competition. 2011 AfroBasket is slated for September 23 through October 2 in Bamako, Mali. Twelve participants are known for the tournament:

Mali, Senegal, Angola, Cote dIvoire, Nigeria, Tunisia, Guinea, Ghana, Cameroon, Rwanda, Mozambique and DR Congo. DR Congo can boast of three golden medals. They came out winners of AfroBasket back in 1983, 1986 and 1994.

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AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18 - Women

U16 AfroBasket will be held in Egypt - by Eurobasket News
U16 AfroBasket 2011 is scheduled to take place in Egypt on July 22-30. Ten teams will participate at the tournament. These are Egypt, Mali, Angola, Algeria, Tunisia, Guinea, Nigeria, DR Congo, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The teams will be divided into two preliminary groups with five teams in each. Four best teams from each group will advance into the quarterfinals. The winners of the tournament will qualify for U17 World Championship in 2012.
Mali are the defending champions. They prevailed against Egypt in the final game of 2009 edition of the tourney.

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

BELGIUM - Women

Tessy Hetting joins Point Chaud - by Eurobasket News
Tessy Hetting (188-F-86) will move to Belgium in the next season. The 24-year-old Luxembourg forward signed deal with Point Chaud. Tessy Hetting spent the previous season in French NF2 League with Montbrison. Tessy Hetting graduated from LIU Brooklyn in 2010. The forward played for Luxembourg NT during at 2011 European Championship in Division B. Her stats read 8.3 points, 5.0 boards, 2.7 steals and 1.7 assists per game.

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

CUBA - Women

Cuba edge Latvia in Guildford - by Eurobasket News
Cuba - Latvia 73:60

Cuba started the Guilford Invitational tournament in Great Britain with victory. The Latin American team outscored Latvia in the opener. Oyanaisy Gelis (172-G-83) came up with 13 points to pace balanced effort from Cuba.
Cuba opened the game aggressively. The Latin American team erupted for 29 points in the first stanza to take a 9-point lead. Cuba maintained the margin throughout the second stanza. They established a 35:25 halftime lead. Things did not change drastically in the third term. Cuba stayed in front as they accumulated a 13-point lead with one quarter remaining. They did not allow Latvia to get any closer in the final quarter rolling to a comfortable win at the end. Islen Carbonell (182-G/F-87), Marlen Cepeda (193-C-85) and Taimy Fernandez (183-F-82) had 10 points each for the winners. Elina Babkina (172-G-89, agency: LBM Management) responded with 19 points and 5 assists for Latvia. Zane Tamane (200-C-83, college: W.Illinois) provided 11 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Cuba: Oyanaisy Gelis 13, Islen Carbonell 10, Marlen Cepeda 10, Taimy Fernandez 10
Latvia: Elina Babkina 19, Zane Tamane 11

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DR CONGO - Women

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FRANCE - Women

Valeri Garnier takes over Bourges as Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
Bourges hired Valerie Garnier as their new Head Coach. The French specialist will replace Pierre Vincent , who left the post recently.
Valerie Garnier worked last three years as a Head Coach of Toulouse Metropole Basket. They finished 2010/11 LFB season as the last ranked team with 2-24 record. Toulouse won the promotion for LFB two years ago. In their first season the team ended as No.12. Before Toulouse, Gernier worked with Temple-sur-Lot and US Templaise Basket Ball.
Pierre Vincent , who left Bourges recently, was their Head Coach since 2004. He helped them win 3 LFB titles, including the one this season. He also helped the club win French Cup in 2006 and was named Eurobasket.com All-French LFB Coach of the Year -06, 07, 08, 11. It is not known where Vincent will continue his coaching career. According to the rumors, one of the options could be ASVEL (men). Before Bourges, Pierre Vincent worked with CEP Poitiers and French U18 National Team (men). Since 2008 he is a Head Coach of the French womens NT. It is also important to mention that Bourges reached Euroleague Semifinals twice under Vincent.

Magali Lacroix is a newcomer at Flammes Carolo Basket Ardennes ASPTT - by Eurobasket
French experienced power forward Magali Lacroix (186-F-75) leaves Challes-les-Eaux Basket where she played this two last seasons and takes a commitment with another french league team, Etoile Charleville-Mezieres. Lacroix leads Challes as a captain to the second place of the regular season ranking in France and averaged 9.1ppg 5.5rpg 1.4apg 1.4spg in 29 minutes. Challes lost in the semi-final play-offs against Tarbes. Lacroix was the most experienced player of the 2010/11 French League and still one of the most efficient.

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GERMANY - Women

Germany defeat Great Britain in Guildford - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain - Germany 60:70

Germany victoriously opened their Guilford Invitational tournament campaign. They held off the hosts in the opener today. Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) scored 23 points to lead the visitors.
Great Britain surged ahead early in the encounter. The home team posted an 18:15 lead after the starting frame. Germany bounced back in the second term. The visitors eked out a narrow 36:35 halftime lead. The third term proved decisive in this one. Germany limited Great Britain to just 10 points in the period and built a 9-point buffer at the final intermission. Germany never looked back in the fourth term and recorded a confident win at the end. Sarah Austmann (179-G/F-85) provided 10 points, while Lisa Koop (197-C-85, college: Winthrop), Romy Bar (189-F-87, agency: LBM Management) and Petra Glaser (196-F/C-81, college: Long Beach St.) provided 8 points each in the winning effort. Lauren Thomas-Johnson (178-G-88, college: Marquette) answered with 12 points for Great Britain. Stephanie Gandy (178-F-82, college: Michigan) had 11 points in the loss.
Germany will take on Latvia, while Great Britain will face Cuba tomorrow.

Great Britain: Lauren Thomas-Johnson 12, Stephanie Gandy 11
Germany: Anne Breitreiner 23, Sarah Austmann 10, Lisa Koop 8, Romy Bar 8, Petra Glaser 8

Amanda Davidson stays, Hicran Ozen leaves Marburg - by Eurobasket News
Amanda Davidson (170-G-83, college: Indianapolis) extended her contract with Marburg. The teams captain was on Marburg squad since 2007. Amanda Davidson had various offers from abroad but she decided to stay with the team. Last season the guard averaged 10.1 points, 3.0 assists, 2.0 boards per game. She helped Marburg clinch DBBL regular season crown. Last season Amanda Davidson made into Eurobasket.com All-German DBBL All-Imports Team.
Hicran Ozen (169-G-81) opted to leave the team after 11 seasons of fruitful cooperation. Last season the 29-year-old guard notched 6.4 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.7 assists per appearance. Hicran Ozen played for German National Team back in 2006-08 seasons. Hicran Ozen will probably retire from basketball for now.

Osnabruck add Sabrina Ochs - by Eurobasket News
Newly promoted Osnabruck started to build the roster for the next season. They recently signed deal with Sabrina Ochs (175-G-92). The 18-year-old guard played for Rita Scala Ladybaskets in the previous season. She averaged 10.0 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game in 2Bundesliga. Sabrina Ochs played for U18 German selection at the 2010 European Championship in Timisoara.

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GREECE - Women

Panathinaikos is No.3 in Greece - by Eurobasket News
Places 3-4, Game 3: Aris - Panathinaikos 55-83 (2-3)

Panathinaikos finished 2010/11 season as No.3. The team from Athens managed to beat Aris third consecutive time winning the series with 3-2. Aris started with 2-0 due to better score in regular season, but was not able to take any of three games in this series.
It was a game without a history. Panathinaikos led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Panathinaikos forced 27 Aris turnovers and outrebounded them 43-27 including 16 on the offensive glass. Forward Theodora Panteli (183-F-87, college: Binghamton) nailed a double-double by scoring 16 points and 18 rebounds for the winning side and forward Maria Zikiridou (187-F-83) accounted for 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Panathinaikos players scored in double figures. Eleni Syra came up with 12 points and forward Nikoleta Balla (181-F-92) added 8 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Aris in the defeat. Aris' coach Kostas Kotoulis gave up on the game allowing eleven players to play seeing no chance for a win.

Panathinaikos: T.Panteli 16+18reb+3ast, M.Zikiridou 15+9reb+4ast, E.Vlani 14+3reb, J.Murphree 11+3reb+3ast, G.Marginean 10+1reb+2ast, A.Spinou 8+3reb+4ast
Aris: E.Syra 12+4reb+1ast, Triantafyllidou 8+1reb+1ast, N.Balla 8+5reb+1ast, M.Tranta 7+3reb+2ast, M.Polichrou 5+3reb+1ast, A.Athena 5+3reb+2ast

A1 Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kaili MCLAREN
  Apollon
  (188-F-88)
  Avg: 17.8

1. McLaren, Apollon	17.8
2. Milkova, Esperides	17.1
3. Marginean, Panath.	17.0
4. Delva, DAS A.	16.7
5. Koch, Panionios	16.3
6. Kotsopoulou, DAS	15.4
7. Mazic, Panionios	15.3
8. Frohlich, Proteas	14.1
9. Henry, FEA Neas	14.0
10. Stamati, FEA Neas	13.3

Rebounds Per Game

Kaili MCLAREN
  Apollon
  (188-F-88)
  Avg: 13.3

1. McLaren, Apollon	13.3
2. Delva, DAS A.	11.6
3. Mazic, Panionios	11.5
4. Frohlich, Proteas	11.5
5. Skrba, Aris	10.3
6. Skibbe, DAS A.	9.8
7. Thompson, Olymp.	9.4
8. Ducker, Esperides	8.3
9. Nkele, Apollon	8.2
10. Green, PAOK	8.0

Assists Per Game

Natali PLOUBI
  DAS A.
  (169-G-81)
  Avg: 7.2

1. Ploubi, DAS A.	7.2
2. Koch, Panionios	4.6
3. LeNoir, Aris	4.4
4. Axiopoulou, Esperi.	4.2
5. Lymoura, Athin.	4.1
6. Stavridou, PAOK	3.6
7. Hatzinikolao., Ath.	3.5
8. Green, PAOK	3.5
9. Fox, Proteas	3.4
10. Kalogirou, Esperi.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Roula KALOGIROU
  Esperides
  (172-G-81)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Kalogirou, Esperid.	3.1
2. Koch, Panionios	2.7
3. Axiopoulou, Esperi.	2.7
4. Murphree, Panathin.	2.6
5. Derevjanik, Panath.	2.3
6. Skrba, Aris	2.3
7. Hatzinikolao., Ath.	2.3
8. Green, PAOK	2.2
9. Fox, Proteas	2.2
10. Marginean, Panath.	2.2

Blocks Per Game

Asimina KOUTSOUNOURI
  Olympi.
  (190-C-)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Koutsounouri, Olym.	1.5
2. Skrba, Aris	1.4
3. Delva, DAS A.	1.2
4. McLaren, Apollon	1.1
5. Riley, Athinaikos	1.0
6. Skiadopoulou, PAOK	0.9
7. Rousou, Panionios	0.8
8. Skibbe, DAS A.	0.8
9. Nikolaidou, FEA N.	0.6
10. Smirnaiou, DAS A.	0.6

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HOLLAND - Women

Batouwe bring in Fieke Ligthart and Yvonne van Daalen - by Eurobasket News
Batouwe strengthened their squad with addition of two players. They signed deals with Fieke Ligthart (184-F/C-90) and Yvonne van Daalen (175-G-87, agency: LBM Management, college: Winthrop).
Fieke Ligthart spent the previous season with CTO Amsterdam. She averaged 9.4 points, 6.7 boards, 2.3 assists and 1.8 steals per game. The 20-year-old centre also played for Dutch National Team in the European Championship qualification. She averaged 2.6 points per game. Fieke Ligthart was the member of Dutch U16, U18 and U20 selections.
Yvonne van Daalen will return to Batouwe from Spain. The 24-year-old guard started the previous season with Batouwe. She averaged 19.1 points, 3.4 boards, 5.1 assists and 1.7 steals per appearance in Eredivisie. Later the guard moved to Guadalajara in Spanish LF2.

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LATVIA - Women

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LUXEMBOURG - Women

Etzella add Ana Petrova - by Eurobasket News
Etzella strengthened their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Ana Petrova (170-F-82). The 29-year-old forward spent the previous season with Black Star Mersch. She notched 17.0 points, 5.5 boards, 2.8 assists and 3.0 steals per game. Ana Petrova was given Eurobasket.com All-Luxembourg League Honourable Mention after the season.

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NAIA - Women

Paponjak signs with Montana State-Northern - by Eurobasket News
Montana State University-Northern women's basketball coach Chris Mouat has announced the signing of Sara Paponjak, a 6-foot, 1 inch post from Whatcom Community College.

Paponjak is a 2009 graduate of Foster High School in Seattle, Washington. She played her first season of collegiate basketball at NCAA Division II Central Washington, and later transferred to Whatcom for her sophomore season.

This season, Paponjak averaged 14.6 points and 9.0 rebounds per game while earning second team All-Northern Region honor in the Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges (NWAACC).

Courtesy of www.bellinghamherald.com

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NCAA1 - Women

Oties Epps to be named head coach at Evansville - by Eurobasket News
Oties Epps wasn't sure where his coaching path would lead after he lost his job when the University of Wisconsin fired women's basketball coach Lisa Stone. But he was eager to find out.

Despite some initial pain and several weeks of uncertainty, Epps said he never lost faith that there was an appealing basketball destination in his future.

Epps, a UW assistant coach the past three years, spoke of how his faith was turning into reality Tuesday as he and his family were on the road to Evansville, Ind., where he will be introduced Wednesday as the head coach at the University of Evansville.

'I feel so blessed to have this opportunity,' Epps said. 'Losing my job was difficult. It's something that I'd never experienced before in my professional career.

'I just put my faith in God. I know that sometimes when He's preparing you for your next step He has to take you down before He brings you back up. My faith is strong and I knew that He would put me and my family in a place where we could prosper.

'After awhile and going through this process, my heart started to talk to me and I knew that things were probably going to happen for me in Evansville. I wouldn't trade the past for anything because if it was not for that experience I would not be where I am now.'

Epps becomes the second member of Stone's staff to land a Division 1 head coaching position, following Ty Margenthaler, who was named to the job at Southeast Missouri State last month.

They followed in the footsteps of another former UW assistant, Kathi Bennett, who became head coach at Northern Illinois a year ago. While NIU became Bennett's third Division 1 head coaching job, Margenthaler and Epps are first-time head coaches.

'I think that speaks to Coach Stone and her ability to lead leaders,' Epps said. 'She put a staff together of future head coaches. She knew that, she knew what our strengths and weaknesses were as coaches and being the leader that she is she put us in a position to maximize our strengths.

'She gave us so much ownership of the program. Coach Stone was so selfless as a coach. To be able to do that with her assistants I think is a testament to her. Without her we wouldn't be where we are and we all are grateful for the opportunity that she gave us and we know that she will be successful in whatever it is that she chooses to do next.'

Epps will have his hands full in rebuilding the Evansville program, which had an 8-22 record this past season, losing 13 of the last 14 games. Misty Murphy resigned following the season with a three-year record of 27-67, including a 12-48 mark over the past two seasons.

But Epps is confident that better days are ahead. For encouragement he can look to a tradition that includes both Bennett, who was head coach at Evansville from 1996-2000, and new UW coach Bobbie Kelsey, who was an assistant there for two years following Bennett's departure.

'The program is actually in better shape than most people would think,' Epps said. 'I had an opportunity last week to speak to Bobbie about the situation and she talked about how much she liked the people there. That's the thing I was really captivated about once I started looking into this job.

'I really wanted to be at a place like that because I'm relationship driven as a coach. To be at a place where I could have great relationships that will last a lifetime, that was really important to me.'

Epps inherits a roster of 12 returning players, including former Muskego all-state player Katie Ellerson. He also will have three incoming freshmen. He met with several players during the interview process and came away with a positive impression.

'I saw that they're very intelligent, very humble and very hungry for success,' said Epps, who was selected from a field that included new UW assistant Kyle Rechlicz as one of the finalists. 'I think with that combination, the sky is the limit.

'They've had success there in the past and that's something I was looking for. I know we can get it back to that kind of success.

'From the time I take over that program until the time I leave, I want to set the standard for other teams in the Missouri Valley Conference for how we conduct ourselves, how we compete on a nightly basis, how we prepare ourselves, in all aspects on the court and off. That's what I'm excited about. It's a great opportunity.'

Courtesy of http://host.madison.com

Transgender George Washington player leaving program - by Eurobasket News
The openly transgender member of the George Washington women's basketball team, whose groundbreaking season was cut short by a pair of concussions, says he won't play in his senior year.

The school announced that Kye Allums (5'11''-G-89) 'has decided that it is in his best interest to no longer participate in intercollegiate athletics.'

'I alone came to this conclusion,' Allums said in a statement released by the university, 'and I thank the athletic department for respecting my wishes.'

The statement offered no further details, although GW said Allums has enrolled in classes for the fall semester. Allums did not immediately respond to an email request for an interview Wednesday.

Allums made international headlines when he announced before the start of the season in November that he preferred to known as a man. He said he was putting off hormone treatments and gender-changing surgery so that he could continue to play for the women's team.

But he suffered two concussions early in the season and played in only eight games. He told The Associated Press in March that he has had suffered a total of eight concussions, that he was having memory problems and that he was unsure whether he would be cleared medically to play his senior season. He said doctors told him that if he were a football player, his playing days would certainly be over.

'I'm a fighter. I'm still trying to come back,' he said at the time. 'I really do want to come back and play.'

Courtesy of www.kolotv.com

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NIGERIA - Women

Standings - Women

D1 Standings

1. First Bank		6-0
2. First Deepwater		6-0
3. Sunshine A.		6-0
4. Dolphin		3-3
5. AHIP Queens		2-4
6. Delta Force		2-4
7. FCT Angels		2-4
8. Immigration		2-4
9. Customs		1-5
10. Plateau Rocks		0-6

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POLAND - Women

Five players leave Lotos Gdynia - by Grzegorz Ozog
After an unsuccessful season Lotos Gdynia not extend contracts with five players.

On the Polish court will not see Monica Wright (180-F-88) who gained the most points for the team. In the next season at the Polish seaside also will not play Milka Bjelica (193-F-81), Daria Mieloszynska (188-F-83), Marta Jujka (192-C-88), and Pauline Krawczyk (180-F-85). Previously the team left Elina Babkina (172-G-89) who moved to Fenerbahce.

The new coach of Lotos Gdynia - Javier Fort Puente want to create a team based on young players.

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SLOVENIA - Women

Eurobasket.com All-Slovenian 1A Awards 2010-11 - by Greg

Eurobasket.com All-Slovenian 1A 1st Team 2011

Oblak

Baric

Komplet

Baltic

Turcinovic

Player of the Year: Teja Oblak (172-G-90) of Hit K.Gora
Guard of the Year: Teja Oblak (172-G-90) of Hit K.Gora
Forward of the Year: Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) of Hit K.Gora
Center of the Year: Ana Turcinovic (190-C-93) of Merkur Celje
Newcomer of the Year: Natasa Mikic (181-G-84) of Grosuplje
Most Improved Player of the Year: Teja Oblak (172-G-90) of Hit K.Gora
Bosman Player of the Year: Ana Turcinovic (190-C-93) of Merkur Celje
Domestic Player of the Year: Teja Oblak (172-G-90) of Hit K.Gora
Defensive Player of the Year: Ajda Gabrovsek (188-C-84) of Odeja KED
Coach of the Year: Goran Jovanovic of Hit K.Gora

1st Team
G: Teja Oblak (172-90) of Hit K.Gora
G: Nika Baric (169-92) of Merkur Celje
F/C: Eva Komplet (182-86) of Hit K.Gora
F/C: Kristina Baltic (187-90) of AJM Maribor
C: Ana Turcinovic (190-93) of Merkur Celje

2nd Team
G: Natasa Mikic (181-84) of Grosuplje
G: Martina Dover (177-86) of AJM Maribor
F: Barbara Skof (181-80) of Ilrija
F: Tjasa Gortnar (185-92) of Merkur Celje
C: Ajda Gabrovsek (188-84) of Odeja KED

Honorable Mention
Sasa Panic (172-G-86) of Hit K.Gora
Natasa Radulovic (181-G-82) of Hit K.Gora
Sandra Jevtovic (187-F-93) of Merkur Celje
Maja Drozg (179-F/C-81) of AJM Maribor
Ana Ljubenovic (182-F/C-88) of Triglav
Ziva Macura (184-F-95) of Merkur Celje
Katja Klancnik (175-F-90) of GVT Konjice
Klavdija Oblak (170-G-88) of Odeja KED

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Teja Oblak (172-90) of Hit K.Gora
G: Nika Baric (169-92) of Merkur Celje
F/C: Eva Komplet (182-86) of Hit K.Gora
F/C: Kristina Baltic (187-90) of AJM Maribor
C: Ajda Gabrovsek (188-84) of Odeja KED

All-Defensive Team
Klavdija Oblak (170-G-88) of Odeja KED
Teja Oblak (172-G-90) of Hit K.Gora
Maja Drozg (179-F/C-81) of AJM Maribor
Ana Turcinovic (190-C-93) of Merkur Celje
Ajda Gabrovsek (188-C-84) of Odeja KED

All-Newcomers Team
Natasa Radulovic (181-G-82) of Hit K.Gora
Natasa Mikic (181-G-84) of Grosuplje
Monika Bosilj (178-G-85) of Merkur Celje
Anja Rozman (178-F-94) of Grosuplje
Maja Bosnjak (186-F-95) of Odeja KED

Zrinski set final roster for EC Division B - by Zeljko Zule
National team head coach Boris Zrinski cut ten players from his preliminary roster to finalize the squad for the Eurobasket Women 2011 Division B.
Here is the full roster:
GUARDS: Martina Dover (177-G-86) of Maribor, Teja Oblak (172-G-90) of Kranjska Gora, Katarina Ristic (174-G-84) of Szolnok.
FORWARDS: Maja Erkic (183-G/F-85) of Schio, Katarina Ilijev (177-F-81) of Maribor, Lea Jagodic (182-F-91) of Celje, Natasa Radulovic (181-G-82) of Kranjska Gora, Martina Osterman (188-F-88) of Kranjska Gora.
CENTERS: Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) of Kranjska Gora, Ana Ljubenovic (182-F/C-88) of Triglav, Tina Trebec (189-F/C-90) of KranjskaGora, Natasa Vene (186-F/C-84) of Ilirija.
RESERVES: Urska Cuk (167-G-86) of Triglav, Anja Klavzar (177-F-90) of Celje.

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UNITED KINGDOM - Women

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WNBA - Women

Jordan brand signs Maya Moore, makes her first female member - by Eurobasket News
Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut) made history once again when she became the first female basketball player signed by the Jordan Brand.

I am thrilled to welcome Maya Moore into the Jordan Brand, Michael Jordan, the NBA star who inspired the athletic clothes and shoes line said. Not only has Maya proven to be a prolific winner on the court, but her hunger and determination to make an impact off the court makes her a valuable addition to the Jordan family. We look forward to working with Maya as she carries her success to the next level.

During her successful career at UCONN, Moore led the Huskies to two national championships, three Final Four appearances and an NCAA record 90-game winning streak. She became the first player (male or female) to be named Big East Player of the Year her freshman season and is the only three-time Wade Trophy recipient. She was also a four-time first team All-American and set an NCAA record of 150 wins in 154 games.

Last month Moore was selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick in the WNBA by the Minnesota Lynx.

As a student of the game, it is a dream come true to align myself with a brand that has a rich history sports, she said in a statement. Like most kids, I grew up idolizing Michael Jordan and continue to work relentlessly to reach his iconic status on the court. Im truly motivated to take my career to the next level as a member of Team Jordan.

The Jordan Brand is a division of Nike Inc. Other representatives of the brand include Carmelo Anthony, Derek Jeter, Chris Paul, Dwyane Wade and Ray Allen.

The WNBA preseason starts Thursday, May 19 with the China National Team at Connecticut. The Minnesota Lynx play its first preseason game on Tuesday, May 31 against the Indiana Fever.

Courtesy of www.longislandpress.com

Mohammed waived from Fever training camp roster - by Eurobasket News
As the Indiana Fever continues its first week of training camp, the club has waived free agent center Aisha Mohammed (6'3''-C-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Virginia). Mohammed was a training camp free agent signed in March.

Now at 14 players, the Fever roster will be trimmed to 11 players by June 2. An updated training camp roster is below.

2011 INDIANA FEVER TRAINING CAMP ROSTER

No Player Pos Ht Wt Birthdate SCHOOL/Year wnba YEARS

0 Shannon Bobbitt G 5-2 130 12/06/1985 Tennessee '08 2

24 Tamika Catchings F 6-1 167 07/21/1979 Tennessee '01 10

50 Jessica Davenport C 6-5 215 06/24/1985 Ohio State '07 4

23 Katie Douglas G-F 6-0 165 05/07/1979 Purdue '01 10

43 Shyra Ely F 6-2 182 08/09/1983 Tennessee '05 5

20 Briann January G 5-8 144 01/11/1987 Arizona State '09 2

31 Jessica Moore C 6-3 175 07/09/1982 Connecticut '05 6

10 Jen Morris G 5-9 146 07/21/1987 San Diego State '10 1
w
34 Abi Olajuwon C 6-4 236 07/06/1988 Oklahoma '10 1

13 Erin Phillips G 5-8 165 05/19/1985 Australia 3

32 Jeanette Pohlen G 6-0 179 05/02/1989 Stanford '11 R

5 Tangela Smith F-C 6-3 158 04/01/1977 Iowa '98 13

8 Tammy Sutton-Brown C 6-4 199 01/27/1978 Rutgers '01 10

1 Shavonte Zellous G 5-10 155 08/28/1986 Pittsburgh '09 2

HEAD COACH: Lin Dunn, Tennessee-Martin '69

ASSISTANT COACH: Gary Kloppenburg, UC San Diego '81

ASSISTANT COACH: Stephanie White, Purdue '99

A WNBA playoff participant in six straight seasons and seven times since 2002, the Indiana Fever begins its 12th season by hosting the Chicago Sky on Saturday, June 4 (7:00 p.m.).

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

New coach, new style for Washington Mystics - by Eurobasket News
The Washington Mystics finished 22-12 last season, good for first place in the Eastern Conference, but a first-round sweep by the Atlanta Dream made the season feel like more of a failure than a success.

This year, there is a different look and feel about the Mystics, sparked by new coach and general manager Trudi Lacey, the return of All-Star guard Alana Beard, and brand new red, white and blue uniforms

But the most important change will be the system Lacey implements, one that emphasizes speed, defense and post play. That is what the players believe will take them far beyond a first-round exit this season.

'I preach defense every day. I saw a glimpse of it today [during the scrimmage]', Lacey said.

'The Blue Team was down, they turned up the defense and came back and won, so thats like music to my ears. Were working on it. Its going to take us some time, but itll come, Lacey said. Im super excited that well have a post presence this year, and we have a lot of weapons to change the tempo defensively', Lacey said.

The team has six players in camp considered to be post players Chastity Melvin, Crystal Langhorne, TaShia Phillips, Victoria Dunlap, Nicky Anosike and Karima Christmas but the team has only 10 roster spots available and 15 players are still in camp. The team released Maurita Reid and Sequoia Holmes on Tuesday.

A WNBA roster caries 11 players, but one spot will be held open for forward Monique Currie, who will miss the season with an ACL injury. The Mystics faced the same situation last year, having only 10 healthy players available. A roster spot had to be held for Beard, who was out all last season with an Achilles tendon injury.

In addition to improved defense and post play, Lacey wants the team to run more than it did last year.

Were going to sprint north to south, well see a little more movement off the ball, and hopefully well be able to rebound, defend, and run, Lacey said.

The transition to Lacey as the coach has been smooth since shes been on the staff as an assistant the past two seasons.

The adjustment hasnt been hard at all, Beard said. Shes been the one weve gone and talked to whenever we had problems or just confided in. I dont think we could have picked a better coach.

Beard also expects a better flow on the court under Lacey.

I think there will be a change. I think Trudi does a great job of implementing plays that play to the strength of the players. We have a lot of players who can create their own shot and can get out and run, Beard said.

I think this is going to be an exciting system to play in.

Courtesy of www.washingtontimes.com