Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/27/2011

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Men News

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ASIAN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Standings

Asian Club Championships Standings

Group A
1. Al Ittihad			0-0
2. ASU			0-0
3. Duhok			0-0
4. KL Dragons			0-0
5. Smart Gilas			0-0
Group B
1. Al Rayyan			0-0
2. Al Riyadi			0-0
3. Ash Shaab			0-0
4. Jalaa			0-0
5. Mahram			0-0

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AUSTRIA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

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

1. Stazic, BC Vienna	26.4
2. Vay, Arkadia	19.5
3. Kennedy, Worth.	19.4
4. Brokenboroug., Wel.	19.4
5. Houston, Arkadia	18.5
6. Heard, Gussing	17.0
7. Shavies, Furstenf.	16.6
8. Mayes, Gmunden	16.6
9. Nagler, Klostern.	16.3
10. Shawn, Oberwart	15.8

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Heard, Gussing	9.2
2. Stazic, BC Vienna	7.9
3. Graham, UBSC G.	7.9
4. Johnson, Oberwart	7.9
5. Trepalovac, BC Vi.	7.8
6. Vay, Arkadia	7.6
7. Djuric, Gussing	7.5
8. Volcic, Oberwart	7.0
9. Oppland, Gmunden	7.0
10. Stegnjaic, UBSC G.	6.9

Assists Per Game

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

1. Carr, BC Vienna	7.3
2. Shavies, Furstenf.	7.0
3. Holcomb-Faye, Wels	6.6
4. Danek, Arkadia	6.3
5. Schreiner, St.Po.	5.4
6. Stazic, Furstenfeld	4.4
7. Miletic, UBSC G.	4.4
8. Stazic, BC Vienna	4.4
9. Parker, Oberwart	4.2
10. Coffin, BC Vienna	4.1

Steals Per Game

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

1. Schreiner, St.Po.	2.4
2. Boylan, Gmunden	2.3
3. Shavies, Furstenf.	2.3
4. Ray, Furstenfeld	2.0
5. Jandl, St.Polten	2.0
6. Parker, Oberwart	1.8
7. Stazic, BC Vienna	1.7
8. Vay, Arkadia	1.7
9. Bachlechner, Worth.	1.6
10. Stazic, Furstenfe.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Russell HICKS
  Furstenfeld
  (213-C-85)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Hicks, Furstenfeld	1.7
2. Graham, UBSC G.	1.6
3. Hampton, Furstenf.	1.3
4. Pekovic, BC Vienna	1.2
5. Slack, Gmunden	1.1
6. Sally, Oberwart	0.8
7. Vay, Arkadia	0.8
8. Miljkovic, BC Vi.	0.8
9. Heard, Gussing	0.7
10. N''Diaye, BC.	0.7

Oberwart Gunners celebrate ABL title - by Eurobasket News
Gmunden - Oberwart 75:77

Oberwart are new A Bundesliga champions. They held off Gmunden in the decisive fifth game of the title series. David Gonzalvez (193-G-87, college: Richmond) stepped up for the Gunners with 15 points and 7 rebounds.
Gmunden looked good early in the game. The hosts dominated every facet of the encounter in the starting period. Gmunden opened the game with a 17:2 rally. Oberwart cut the deficit but still trailed by 13 points at the first term 11:24. The Gunners tipped off the second quarter with a 9:2 rally to get closer. Gmunden restored a 13-point buffer late in the first half before Kelvin Parker (183-G-82, college: NW Missouri St.) made it 27:38 at halftime. Oberwart went on an 8:1 run to begin the second half. Joe Dean Shaw (199-F-87, college: Nevada) drew things level late in the third frame. Ian Boylan (197-G/F-83, college: Cal.St. Northridge) secured a narrow 54:53 advantage for Gmunden as the teams headed into the fourth term. The visitors netted five points in a row at the start of the final stanza to spur in front. The Gunners boosted the gap to 6 points with under four minutes to go. The visiting team were up by six with just 71 seconds to go. Ian Boylan and Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) dragged the home team within two points but Kelvin Parker nailed four consecutive free throws to seal the victory and championship title for Oberwart. He finished with 13 points, while Joe Dean Shaw added 11 points for the winners. Ian Boylan answered with 28 points for Gmunden. Deteri Mayes had 20 points in the loss.

Gmunden: Ian Boylan 28, Deteri Mayes 20
Oberwart: David Gonzalvez 15, Kelvin Parker 13, Joe Dean Shaw 11

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BELGIUM

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

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

1. Jackson, Verviers.	16.3
2. Black, Antwerp	16.0
3. Freeman, Verviers.	15.9
4. Mallet, Charleroi	15.6
5. Lojeski, Oostende	15.3
6. Copeland, Aalstar	15.1
7. Waters, Verviers.	15.0
8. Hilliard, Aalstar	14.9
9. Taylor, M.Hainaut	14.8
10. Miller, Leuven	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Freeman, Verviers.	8.0
2. Young, Aalstar	7.7
3. Hilliard, Aalstar	7.4
4. Stipanovic, Liege	7.4
5. Randle, Gent	7.3
6. Brown, Antwerp	6.4
7. Gay, Verviers-Pep.	6.4
8. Jackson, Verviers.	6.3
9. Tofi, Leuven	6.0
10. Copeland, Aalstar	5.8

Assists Per Game

Darrel MITCHELL
  Oostende
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 4

1. Mitchell, Oostende	4.0
2. Hatten, M.Hainaut	3.7
3. Dagunduro, Leuven	3.6
4. Waters, Verviers.	3.4
5. Black, Antwerp	2.9
6. Bosco, Gent	2.9
7. Moors, Antwerp	2.8
8. Burrell, Aalstar	2.7
9. Jenkins, Liege	2.5
10. Miller, Leuven	2.5

Steals Per Game

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

1. Jenkins, Liege	2.8
2. Hatten, M.Hainaut	2.4
3. Wilson, Antwerp	2.2
4. Mallet, Charleroi	2.1
5. Dagunduro, Leuven	2.1
6. Mitchell, Oostende	1.7
7. Biggs, Antwerp	1.7
8. Taylor, M.Hainaut	1.6
9. McCauley, M.Hai.	1.6
10. Bosco, Gent	1.5

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Mejri, Antwerp	1.6
2. Riddick, Charleroi	1.4
3. Young, Aalstar	0.9
4. Johnson, Aalstar	0.9
5. Randle, Gent	0.8
6. Van Den Spie., Oos.	0.7
7. Tofi, Leuven	0.6
8. Wilson, Antwerp	0.6
9. Nivins, M.Hainaut	0.5
10. Pelle, Oostende	0.5

Spirou Basket Charleroi advanced to the Finals - by Eurobasket News
Spirou Basket Charleroi advanced to the Finals sweeping the series over Oostende. Spirou Basket Charleroi needed 74:70 win to win the series 2-0. In another Semifinal clash Hainaut tied the series over Aalstar at 1-1.

Oostende - Charleroi 70-74

Base Oostende was trailing by 5 points at halftime but managed to get 6-point lead after three quarters before a 15-13 charge of Spirou Charleroi, which allowed them to win the game. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Justin Hamilton (191-80, college: Florida) scored 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and guard Demond Mallet (185-78, college: McNeese St., agency: Higher Vision Sports) chipped in 18 points during the contest. Spirou Charleroi's coach Giovanni Bozzi used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Forward Will Thomas (200-86, agency: Interperformances) responded with 12 points and 4 steals and guard Matt Lojeski (198-85, college: Hawaii) scored 14 points. Four Base Oostende players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Charleroi: D.Mallet 18+1reb, J.Hamilton 13+5reb+4ast, D.Broyles 10+4reb, B.Greene 9+6reb+1ast, A.Riddick 8+4reb, C.Beghin 6+5reb
Oostende: T.Huffman 14+1reb+1ast, M.Lojeski 14+4reb, W.Thomas 12+4reb+2ast, C.Green 10+5reb+3ast, T.Van Den Spiegel 9+8reb, Q.Serron 5+5reb+3ast

M.Hainaut - Aalstar 84-78

The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Okapi Aalstar won third quarter 22-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Dexia Mons-Hainaut made 16-of-19 charity shots (84.2 percent) during the game. American guard Ron Lewis (193-84, college: Ohio St.) notched 26 points and 6 rebounds to lead the effort and the other American import forward Justin Cage (198-85, college: Xavier, agency: Priority Sports) supported him with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Even 22 points and 9 rebounds by American swingman Anthony Hilliard (193-86, college: Elizabeth City) did not help to save the game for Okapi Aalstar. American-Lithuanian power forward Christopher Young (206-79, college: Michigan, agency: Court Side) added 13 points and 11 rebounds for the guests. Four Okapi Aalstar players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
M.Hainaut: R.Lewis 26+6reb+3ast, J.Cage 18+10reb+1ast, M.Hatten 14+4reb, R.Taylor 9+5reb+2ast, S.Bellin 9+2reb, A.Nivins 8+4reb
Aalstar: A.Hilliard 22+9reb, C.Young 13+11reb+1ast, A.Ruoff 11+3reb+1ast, J.Steinbach 10+2reb+1ast, C.Copeland 8+6reb+1ast, S.Burrell 7+1ast

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BRAZIL

Latinbasket.com All-Brazilian League Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

Latinbasket.com All-Brazilian League 1st Team 2011

Giovannoni

dos Santos

Garcia

Day

Becker

Player of the Year: Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80) of BRB/Brasilia
Guard of the Year: Nezinho dos Santos (186-G-81) of BRB/Brasilia
Forward of the Year: Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80) of BRB/Brasilia
Center of the Year: Murilo Becker (210-C/F-83) of S.Jose/Vinac
Import Player of the Year: Shamell Stallworth (196-F-80) of Pinheiros/Sky
Newcomer of the Year: Juan Pablo Figueroa (184-G-86) of Pinheiros/Sky
Most Improved Domestic Player of the Year: Vitor Benite (190-F/G-90) of Vivo/Franca
Domestic Player of the Year: Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80) of BRB/Brasilia
Defensive Player of the Year: Atila Santos (208-C-83) of Flamengo
Coach of the Year: Jose Carlos Vidal of BRB/Brasilia

1st Team
G: Nezinho dos Santos (186-81) of BRB/Brasilia
G: Alexandre Garcia (191-80) of BRB/Brasilia
F: Robert Day (197-82) of Unitri/Universo
F: Guilherme Giovannoni (202-80) of BRB/Brasilia
C/F: Murilo Becker (210-83) of S.Jose/Vinac

2nd Team
G: Fulvio de Assis (187-81) of S.Jose/Vinac
F/G: Marcelinho Machado (199-75) of Flamengo
F: Marquinhos Vinicius (207-84) of Pinheiros/Sky
F: Olivinha Rodriguez (202-83) of Pinheiros/Sky
C: Douglas Nunes (201-87) of Itabom/Bauru

Honorable Mention
Atila Santos (208-C-83) of Flamengo
Shamell Stallworth (196-F-80) of Pinheiros/Sky
Juan Pablo Figueroa (184-G-86) of Pinheiros/Sky
Hatila Passos (211-C-86) of Unitri/Universo
Larry Taylor (185-G-80) of Itabom/Bauru
Jordan Burger (203-F-91) of Paulistano
Ricardo de Bem (210-F/C-84) of Vitoria
Luis Felipe Gruber (205-F-85) of Araldite/Univille
Lucas Cipolini (206-F/C-86) of Unitri/Universo
Renato Scholz (197-F-88) of Araldite/Univille
Rafu Da Silva (197-G/F-83) of Vitoria
Eddy Carvalho (194-G/F-87) of Vitoria
Betinho Nardi Duarte (195-G/F-88) of Paulistano
Cicero Gonzaga (202-F-86) of Assis Basket

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Nezinho dos Santos (186-81) of BRB/Brasilia
G: Alexandre Garcia (191-80) of BRB/Brasilia
F: Marquinhos Vinicius (207-84) of Pinheiros/Sky
F: Guilherme Giovannoni (202-80) of BRB/Brasilia
C/F: Murilo Becker (210-83) of S.Jose/Vinac

All-Imports Team
G: Ronald Ramon (185-86) of Winner/Limeira
F: Robert Day (197-82) of Unitri/Universo
F: Shamell Stallworth (196-80) of Pinheiros/Sky
F: Bernard Robinson (198-81) of Pitagoras/Minas
F/C: Jefferson Agba (209-80) of Itabom/Bauru

All-Defensive Team
Nezinho dos Santos (186-G-81) of BRB/Brasilia
Robby Collum (185-G-81) of Unitri/Universo
Olivinha Rodriguez (202-F-83) of Pinheiros/Sky
Leonardo Morro (208-C-84) of Pinheiros/Sky
Atila Santos (208-C-83) of Flamengo

Pinheiros sign two players from Sao Jose dos Campos team - by Paulo Freire
The traditional club from the capital of Sao Paulo State, the Pinheiros confirmed the renewals of contract of american Shamell Stallworth (196-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: USF) , the Argentine point guard Juan Pablo Figueroa (184-G-86, agency: Interperformances), smallfoward Marquinhos Vinicius (207-F-84), and centers Bruno Fiorotto (208-C-84) and Leonardo Morro (208-C-84)

Seeking the 2011/2012 season the Pinheiros / Sky hit the signings of experienced swingman Renato Pinto (202-F-78) and the center Mineiro Ferreira (208-C/F-88) who both defended the Sao Jose dos Campos Basketball in the recent years.

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BULGARIA

NBL Round 2 of Finals:Lukoil won the second straight game over Levski - by Eurobasket News

Finals

Lukoil Academik - Levski 97-72

Lukoil won the second straight game over Levski to take 2-0 Final lead. The game was mostly controlled by Lukoil Academik. Levski managed to win third quarter 19-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American center Travis Peterson (208-85, college: Samford, agency: Edge Sports) had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international swingman Todor Stoykov (198-77, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 20 points and 4 assists during the contest. Lukoil Academik's coach Jovica Arsic felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American swingman Aaron Harper (199-81, college: Mississippi, agency: Strategic Sports) responded with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists and international power forward Stefan Georgiev (206-78) scored 19 points and 9 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Lukoil Academik: T.Peterson 21+10reb, T.Stoykov 20+4reb+4ast, B.Heath 14+4reb+4ast, B.Avramov 14+2reb+5ast, D.Green 8+2reb+3ast, D.Stojanovski 7+2reb+1ast
Levski: A.Harper 21+10reb+5ast, S.Georgiev 19+9reb, D.Cole 14+2reb+1ast, A.Velikov 11+2reb+2ast, G.Cekovski 5+5reb+1ast, Z.Georgiev 2+1reb+4ast

Third place

Tundja - Rilski Sportist 80-69

Tundja clinched the third place in the League after another victory over Rilski. The game was mostly controlled by Tundja. Rilski Sportist was better in third quarter 20-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 19-of-22 charity shots (86.4 percent) during the game. Tundja outrebounded Rilski Sportist 42-29 including 29 on the defensive glass. The former international center Nikolay Varbanov (209-85, agency: Interperformances) notched a double-double by scoring 12 points and 14 rebounds to lead the effort and guard Stanislav Govedarov (185-80) supported him with 18 points. Four Tundja players scored in double figures. Tundja's coach Ivan Cholakov allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 13 points by guard Bogdan Boev (196-82) did not help to save the game for Rilski Sportist. International swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88) added 6 points and 7 rebounds for the guests.
Top scorers:
Tundja: J.Radionov 18+4reb+2ast, S.Govedarov 18+3reb+3ast, N.Varbanov 12+14reb+1ast, M.Durchev 11+4reb+5ast, S.Finzgar 6+1reb+1ast, P.Marinov 6+5reb
Rilski Sportist: B.Boev 13+3reb, V.Mijovic 10+4reb, D.Karadzovski 9+2reb+2ast, A.Radojevic 8+6reb, A.Gruev 8+2ast, M.Marinov 7+2reb+1ast

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Aaron HARPER
  Levski
  (199-G/F-81)
  Avg: 23.6

1. Harper, Levski	23.6
2. Lilov, Rilski S.	20.1
3. Dimitrov, Spartak	19.2
4. Naydenov, Chernom.	16.8
5. Davidov, Balkan	15.7
6. Bozov, Balkan	15.5
7. Govedarov, Tundja	15.2
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. Georgiev, Levski	6.8
7. Radojevic, Rilski	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.	4.2
4. Dyakovski, Spartak	4.0
5. James, Lukoil A.	3.9
6. Bozov, Balkan	3.8
7. Govedarov, Tundja	3.5
8. Lilov, Rilski S.	3.4
9. Avramov, Lukoil A.	3.3
10. Gruev, Rilski S.	3.3

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. Radionov, Tundja	2.0
5. Bozov, Balkan	1.9
6. James, Lukoil A.	1.9
7. Green, Lukoil A.	1.7
8. Bowman, Lukoil A.	1.6
9. Finzgar, Tundja	1.6
10. Marinov, Balkan	1.6

Blocks Per Game

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

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

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CUBA

No LBS 2011, the National Team has the priority - by Gianni Pascucci
It is sure now, the 2011 edition of Liga Superior de Baloncesto (LSB) didn' t start at all. Simply, the Cuban Basketball Federation decided that the National Teams had the priority over the club competitions, and Team Cuba Director and Head Coach Daniel Scott is working over a large group of players starting from February in La Habana, to prepare the FIBA Americas Toournment 2011 in Mar del Plata.
Scott has Argeninean coach Ariel Amarillo as his assistant, together with Leonardo Perez and Antonio Rojas, and the list of the players at the NT camp is as follows:
Yoan Luis Haiti (200-C-82) (CAV), Orestes Torres (202-C-87) (LHA), Leonel Batista (206-C-86) (CMG), Abraham Richardson (204-C) (IJV), Ruberlandi Castillo (205-C-83) (GTM), Cecilio Villavicencio (MAY), Enrique Ramos (201-C-89) (CAV), Yordanis Jaca (196-F/C-83) (CMG), Yorman Polas (192-F-85) (CMG), Juan Ivarez Fumero (F) (LHA), Yoannis Soria (195-G/F-86) (GTM), Edson Franklin (LHA), Lisvan Valdez (194-G/F-88) (LHA), Juan Pineiro (193-G-90) (MAY), Alexei Mestre (180-G-86) (SSP), Yaser Rodriguez (186-G-88) (CAV), Osmel Oliva (178-G-87) (ART), Yosiel Monterrey (185-G-88) (PRI), Ismael Romero (VCL), Elieser Quintana (203-C-91) (PRI) and Yonimiler Diaz (195-G-85) (PRI)
Vetarans Allen Jemmott (195-G/F-80), Andy Boffil (192-G/F-82) and Yudniel Perez (189-G-84) are expected to join the team as soon as they will recover from injuries

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Czech Republic Changes Import Rule for 2011-2012 Season - by Surujh Roopnarine
There will be a slight change to the formation of NBL teams next season as the Czech Basketball Federation reduced the amount of foreign players allowed per team from even to six. Teams will be allowed to carry additional foreigners on their roster, but will be force to pay a tax of 100,000Kc (approx.. 4000 EUR) to the league. This season only BK Prostejov (six) and Mlekarna Miltra Novy Jicin (seven) reached the limit of foreigners, while lower tier teams like Lokomotiva Plzen (o) and USK Praha (1) had the fewest foreigners. Interestingly enough, with all of the financial problems Mlekarna Miltra Novy Jicin had this past offseason in securing sponsorship for the season, management was willing to spend money on foreign talent to keep the team competitive with the league's upper echelon.

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GERMANY

Devin Uskoski, Pro B Player of the Year: "I will be prepared for whatever may come in the future" - by Moritz Korff
It's nothing less than an impressive collection of accolades, Devin Uskoski (198-F/C-85, college: Rocky Mountain) hauled in following the 2010-2011 season in the 2. Bundesliga Pro B. The 25-year-old out of Brush Praire, WA was named the Pro B MVP both by Eurobasket.com as well as in the fan vote initiated by the 2. Bundesliga. His team BG Leitershofen/Stadtbergen pulled off an amazing Cinderella story, going all the way to the Pro B finals as a first year-team. Uskoski was the leader of the gang, he averaged 20.7 points and a league-high 10.8 rebounds per contest. Eurobasket Germany spoke with Devin about this past season and his plans for the upcoming campaign.

Congratulations on winning the Eurobasket.com Pro B-Player of the Year Awards. What does this accomplishment mean to you?
The Pro B-Player of the Year Award means a lot to me. I feel very honored to have won this award; especially considering there were so many great players to chose from. As honored as I feel, I know I wouldnt have won it without my team being successful too. I feel it is as much a team award as it is mine.

Did your playoff run remind you of the run that you had with Rocky Mountain College in 2008-09, when claiming the NAIA National Championship?
Both of my runs to the championship, at Rocky Mountain College and Leitershofen, were very similar. Both times our team was the underdog. Many people picked my team to be knocked out in the first round and many people though we shouldnt have been there at all. Being part of both teams I knew what we had and I knew we had the talent to win the whole thing. With both teams the adversity and having confidence in one another made our teams very strong and we ended up doing much more the critics thought we could. Both experiences were very exciting and ones that Ill remember for the rest of my life.

You have experienced playoff basketball in both the USA and in Germany. In which country are the fans more passionate when it comes to supporting their team during that time of the year?
I think the fans in the US and Germany were very supportive when it came to playoff time. At Rocky, when we made the national tournament, there was a huge blizzard with a lot of snow and it hit the Midwest really hard. A lot of the roads were closed in through Montana, North and South Dakota, and Wyoming and only a couple flights were able to make it out when we were playing the National Tournament in Kansas City, Missouri. We were supposed to have several buses full of fans coming to the games but they couldnt make it with the roads being closed. So, some of them were able to buy the last free plane tickets and were able to make it for the championship game. At Leitershofen the last several home games of the regular season and the playoffs were completely sold out. It was a great atmosphere! The small gym full of enthusiastic fans was something Ill never forget! There were several times were I couldnt hear anything but the roar of the crowd and as a player thats the best environment to play in. Our road games in the playoffs were very good too; especially the semi-finals and finals. We had fan buses full of fans coming to the games and people driving to the games also. The fans in Leitershofen were great!!!

I'm sure a lot of coaches would like to know what it takes to make it to the finals with a team that is playing its first year in the league. Any thoughts that you could share with those coaches out there?
I think the most important thing, with any team, is having great team chemistry. Of course you have to have talent but talent isnt the only or most important thing you have to have. You need players who can play and are willing to do what is best for the team even if they dont necessarily want to do it or if it isnt the most fun thing to do. If you can get the players to buy into the team mentality then the team will be successful.

Following the season in Germany you have returned home. How do your plans for the summer look like?
This summer Im playing with the Vancouver Volcanoes and IBL team near my home. I played with them last summer and I am enjoying playing with them again this year. Besides playing with them Im going to keep working out and expanding my skills on my perimeter game. More ball handling and shooting. I want to keep improving my game and be ready for whatever might happen this upcoming season.

What is it like to play in the IBL? Does the level of competition compare to Pro B basketball?
The IBL is a great league for me to play in during the summer. Its a faster paced and more athletic league (from top to bottom) then the Pro B. There are a lot of great players in this league. Most of the players are playing overseas or have just got done playing overseas. There are some that have just graduated college too and are looking to go overseas. It is great because you play against players that are playing all over the world and are playing at the highest levels.

What's next for the reigning Pro B Player of the Year? Any plans for the 2011-12 season yet?
I'm not sure of were Im going to be next season. I want to keep playing overseas and I want to play at the highest level possible. Right now I am continuing to workout and improve and I am excited to see what options come up for next season. I will be prepared for whatever may come in the future.

For those coaches who don't know you yet: What does Devin Uskoski bring to the table?
I think there is a lot I can bring to help improve any team that I go to. There are several aspects I can help a team on the court and several intangibles that I can bring that will help a team be successful. As far as being a player, I would describe myself as a 6'6 (200cm), 220lb. (100kg) forward. I am a team first guy and I will work very hard everyday and do whatever it takes for the team to win and be successful. I can go inside and post up/face up or I can step out and shoot the midrange and 3 point shot too. I can also put the ball on the floor and get by my guy and get to the hoop or find the open man. Besides being a versatile player on the court I feel I bring a lot of experience and leadership that will help a team to be successful. Every level that Ive played at from High School to professional I have had success. I know the hard work and dedication it takes to be a champion and I will bring that with me wherever I go.

Devin Uskoski can be contacted at uskoski16@hotmail.com

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig Gobble Up Robert Kulawick - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
After head coach John Patrick left BG Goettingen recently to Bavaria to the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg, the team now lost German identity figure in Goettingen Robert Kulawick (191-G-86, agency: Pro One Sports) who goes to Niedersachsen to The New Yorker Phantoms. Kulawick who is a 25 year old 195cm shooting guard recieved a two year contract with an option. Kulawick had become a very reliable role player in Goettingen with a dangerous three pointerand averaged 5,4ppg and 1,9 rpg in 2010-2011 and in Eurocup play played games: 7.5ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 37.0%.'Robert Kulawicg belongs to the most experienced players in the beko BBL. We have observed him for along time and are happy that we got him. In the Eurocup, he was able to stop the players at the positions 1-3. He also is a hard worker and a team player that has worked a lot on his shot', said Braunschweig sport director Oliver Braun. Kulawick started his basketball career in 2003 for TUS Lichterfelde Berlin (2.Bundesliga) where he played until 2006. He also was able to play 14 beko BBL games for Alba Berlin in this time as well as 3 ULEB cup games. In 2006-2007, he played for Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (1.Bundesliga): 14 games: 1.6ppg; played also at Cuxhaven BasCats (2.Bundesliga): 2 games: 1.5ppg, 1.0rpg.In 2007-2008, he played for SSV Lokomotive Bernau (Regionalliga): 5 games: 16.2ppg, in Oct.'07 joined Den Helder Seals (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): 34 games: 7.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 84.6%. He came to BG Goettingen in 2008 reaching the playoffs in each season and winning the Eurochallenge in 2010. 'I didnt hesistate one second when Braunschweig contacted me. I was looking for a new challenge and I think that I can develop the best with Braunschweig. Some awards and acheivements in his career have been German U20 National Team -04-05-06, German U18 National Team -04, Albert Schweitzer Tournament -04, German Rookie All-Stars Game -05, European Championships U20 in Moscow -05: 8 games: 7pts, 1.4rpg, 0.8apg, German Bundesliga Rookies All-Star Game -06, German Bundesliga Cup Winner -06, German Bundesliga Regular Season Champion -06, German Bundesliga Finalist -06, European Championships U20 in Izmir (Turkey) -06: 8 games: 8.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.0apg, 2FGP: 47.6%, 3FGP: 30.2%, FT: 85.7%, German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -07, Eurobasket.com Dutch Eredivisie All-Bosmans Team -08, German 2.Regionalliga North-West Champion -09, World Military Championships in Klaipeda (Lithuania) -09, German Military National Team -09, German Bundesliga Regular Season Runner-Up -09, EuroChallenge Champion -10, and Eurocup Quarterfinals -11

Source: New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig

Ronald Ross (MBC) Frankfurt Knows That They Have To bring It Every Game From The Jump To Win - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Ronald Ross (188-G-83, college: Texas Tech) is a 27 year old 188cm guard that just completed his first season for MBC. He is originally from Hobbs New Mexico and played at Texas Tech from 2001-2005. In his senior year, he averaged 17.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 3.0apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3Pts: 43% and reached the NCA Sweet 16. He started his professional career with Univer Castelletto Ticino (Italy-Lega2) and then moved on to the CBA in 2006-2007 for Butte Daredevils playing 48 games averaging 15.2ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.4spg), FGP: 49%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 74.2% and in 2007 for the Albany Patroons (USBL, starting five) playing 21 games: Score-3 (17.4ppg), 3.0rpg, Assists-4 (4.0apg), Steals-1 (2.5spg), FGP: 47.6%, 3FGP: 41.4%, FT: 84.2%. In 2007-2008, he played for ENBW Ludwigsburg playing 34 games and averaging 14.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.3apg, Steals-2 (1.7spg), 2FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 77.9% reaching the cup final in 2008. In 2008-2009 he started in Israel before moving on to the Artland Dragons playing 12 games and averaging 15.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.0apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 57.1%, FT: 70.0%. Last season for the Artland Dragons, he played 12 games: 10.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 83.0%; German League: 32 games: 11.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 75.7%. He spoke to eurobasket recently about the 2011 beko BBL semi finals series.

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?

I think it's because the league is getting stronger and stronger and that the higher ranked teams are stepping up when they're suppose to.

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

I think it will be a great series. I definitely think it will go to the final game. Artland lost to them all year, so I know their approach will be very focused. It's mos def going to be a battle.

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?

I think the key for Artland is just to continue to play how they play, but to avoid the foul trouble so they can have their key players down the stretch.

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

I think both teams will know everything about each other going into the series so it will just come down to who wants it more. Personel is definitely important, but the series will be won as a team.

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

I think it's very similar to the Artland and Bamberg series. Frankfurt knows they have to bring it every game from the jump to win. I think this game will go to the final game of the series as well.

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

I think if Alba plays great 'team' defense they have a great chance to win. Their offense is not an issue.

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

Nah, I'm not a huge Dunleavy fan. I would like to see Aldeman get the job. I like his style a little bit better.

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

Doc Rivers is a great coach. He's done an amazing job with the Celtics. I think the Celtics do need a couple younger stars, but more than anything they just need a healthy Rondo.

Thanks Ron for the chat.

Dashaun Wood Cant Be A Superman Every Night As Alba Berlin Pound The Deutsche Bank Skyliners 68-52 For 2-1 Series Lead - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The way the Alba Berlin Deutsche Bank Skyliners beko BBL semi final series had ended in the first two games couldnt have been more dramatic or unbelievable than if Lebron James had lost a game on a tip in on his own basket, Boston Red Sox slugger David Ortiz winning a playoff game against the hated New York Yankees with a suicide squeeze bunt or Boston bruins goalie Tim Thomas winning a playoff game with a full ice flick of the wrist shot that would beat Tampa bay Lightening goalie Mike Smith by accident the same way FC Schalke goalie Manuel Neuer has been prone to allowing goals, or Skyliner assistant coach Klaus Prewas who is usually reserved in the same way after games if the team won by one point or 35 points, but after the game two shock win looked like he had just survived the torture chamber of Hannibal Lector in the Silence of the Lambs. 'You never know what is going to happen in the playoffs. I remember that in 2008 we did the same against Oldenburg where all teams won their away games. I was a little surprised how Frankfurt won game two not allowing Alba Berlin to score for eight minutes. Something like that usually doesnt happen to Alba Berlin', stressed Telekom Baskets Bonn coach Michael Koch. 'The most important thing in the playoffs is always the fighting mentality, playing with heart and getting the rebounds. My most crazy playoffs was when we were down 1-2 in games to Braunschweig and we came back to win 3-2. We had many injuries and played with lesser means. We played fought and played with heart and that is how we were able to get the win', stressed', added Alba Berlin sport director Mithat Demirel (181-G-78)

With the surprise effects that had happened in the first two games, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners didnt want to exit the court again after game three with another insane ending that could of added some extra forehead wrinkles or a few more grey hairs above the brow so the gang of Gordon Herbert entered the game wanting to be as alert as Dirk Nowitzki has been in the current playoffs leading his team to success, as Ashton Kutcher will have to be serving in the role of Charlie Sheen and not getting caught in his pitfalls or how 8 time Grand Slam winner Ivan Lendl winning against Michael Chang again at a Frankfurt exhibition match last weekend and getting revenge after losing to the then 17 year old American who was suffering from cramps and had to serve under hand 22 years ago at Roland Garros in Paris, but every effort The Deutsche Bank Skyliners did wasnt rewarded as Alba Berlin played sensational team basketball defense pounding Frankfurt 68-52 and taking a 2-1 lead in the best of five beko BBL semi finals series. 'We couldnt make a shot. I think we were a little tired. Alba Berlin was able to keep throwing fresh new guys at us and they had a deeper rotation tonight. They just wore us down tonight', stressed ex NBA player Roger Powell. Despite the bitter loss in game two at home, Alba Berlin looked fresh and ready to go in game three. 'This was such an important game and we were confident that we could execute. These games really dont have to do with the x and os, but just about playing together. We were feeding off each others energy and when that happens, good things usually happen', added Alba Berlin American Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports). 'We had no energy tonight. It seemed like with every missed shot at the start, it went downhill from there. Alba Berlin played very aggressive and perhaps because we didnt hit right away, it might of effected us mentally', expressed Skyliner forward Kimmo Muurinen. 'Alba Berlin kept Frankfurt insecure on offense with their aggressive defense. The first 20 minutes was enough for Frankfurt a sthey were dead. Alba Berlin did a good job with their pick and role defense, got into their sets and controlled DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) well', stressed Giessen 46er Jannik Freese. 'We didnt make our free throws at the start which got us out of the game and we couldnt get easy buckets', added Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn)

Before the game in the shoot around, German national team hopefuls Dominik Bahiense De Mello and YYassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) had a pleasant greeting as both were being watched from German national coach Dirk Bauermann (agency: Pro One Sports ). Ex Skyliner Derrick Allen received some positive shouts from fans as he marched on the court. Also in attendance were Telekom Baskets Bonn coach Michael Koch, Giessen 46er center Jannik Freese and ex German national player Henning Harnsich. The Skyliner living room Ballsporthalle was as good as sold out as 5,002 people wanted to see the basketball clash. Alba Berlin got off to the quick start leading 4-0 as they displayed quick ball movement and ex BG Goettingen guard Taylor Rochestie nailed a pull up jumper which was followed by a baby hook shot from Derrick Allen. Alba Berlin quickly put a stamp on the court with their pesky defense as Frankfurt missed their first four shots and needed three minutes until Marius Nolte (206-C-81, agency: Limelight Hoops) put Frankfurt on the board. Idbihi excelled on defense stopping Nolte and then not allowing Powell to dunk. The first quarter dragged on as it was very low scoring and the game resembled more like a high scoring NHL game. Frankfurt might have been able to get the lead, but their poor free throw shooting prevented them from. Frankfurt tied the score at 6-6, but that was as close as they would get as Alba Berlin broke away going on a 9-0 run to lead 15-6. German national player Heiko Schaffartzik was instrumental in this run scoring six points as he scored once inside and nailed a three pointer. Alba Berlin continued to do a super job on defense forcing Frankfurt to take tough shots. Wood scored his first field goal of the game, but Alba Berlin led 17-10 after one quarter. 'It was important that Alba Berlin came out with their aggressive defense right away. Frankfurt also shot very bad. Alba Berlin did a good job defending the Frankfurt pick and role and showed that they had prepared well for DaShaun Wood', stressed Telekom baskets Bonn coach Michael Koch. 'We defended well and attacked Frankfurt hard. However we let up too many offensive rebounds', stressed ex German national player Mithat Demirel Alba Berlin was shooting 46% from the field and 33% from outside while The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 13% from the field and 14% from outside. Frankfurt had the comfortable 15-7 rebound edge, but three turnovers while Alba Berlin only had one turnover.

The Alba Berlin shock treatment against The Deutsche Bank Skyliners continued in the second quarter as the 8 time beko BBl champion jumped out on a 13-2 run to lead 30-12. Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88) started off the second quarter with a hook shot over Nolte and Quantez Robertson countered with a typical athletic leap to the hoop and got some help as the ball decided to trickle in. Alba Berlin then was able to slowly extend their lead as Frankfurt was unable to keep pace too often getting fancy and throwing up wild shots instead of trying to look for open shots. Alba Berlin also forced Frankfurt to their fourth shot clock violation turnover. Alba Berlin was clicking on offense mixing it up as Immanuel Mcelroy hit a turn around shot, Tadija Dragcevic a three pointer and Idbihi a mini hook shot. In the second half of the second quarter, both teams scored only six points a piece as Alba Berlin got a little careless on offense, but not on defense as Frankfurt was unable to capitalize on offense. The most spectacular play of the game occurred as Wood found Super Tez for an ally-op dunk. As Wood does so often, he let his mind digi cam make a quick shot of the American running in and out of teh corner of his eye lofted a pass up to the hoop as Robertson stuffed it home. Idbihi as solid as ever kept the Alba Berlin high hitting a jumper. Wood closed out the second quarter with a lay up from his left hand. Alba Berlin led with comfort 36-18 at halftime. 'The ball just didnt want to go in for Frankfurt. Alba Berlin kept defending well and on offense having good ball movement and never keeping the ball on one side too long. They also attacked the basket well keeping the pressure on with Idbihi and Raduljica. all in all good inside/out basketball', stressed Telekom Baskets Bonn coach Michael Koch. 'We had our rhythm on offense in the second quarter. We found our big men under the basket. Heiko Schaffartzik also brought a lot of energy to the court. Our luxury is that we dont rely on one player, but have many that help out', added Alba Berlin sport director Mithat Demirel Alba Berlin was shooting 52% from the field and 25% from the three point line while The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 19% from the field and 8% from the three point line. Frankfurt had the 20-16 rebound edge, but six turnovers while Alba Berlin had four turnovers.

Everyone was awaiting to see what magical words Skyliner coach Gordon Herbert had found during the halftime to get the players back on track, but instead of The Deutsche Bank Skyliners starting a furious comeback, Alba Berlin was able to extend their lead going on a 7-0 run to start the third quarter to lead 43-18 and the Ballsporthalle was fighting to stay loud as fans just seemed shocked at what was happening. Dragcevic got the ball rolling with free throws and a three pointer and Idbihi scored inside. 'It was tough under the hoop against Idbihi, but sometimes one has to deal with what you got', stressed Roger Powell. Frankfurt then found a little life in their game going on a 7-2 run to trail Alba Berlin only 45-25. Frankfurt who had had much misfortune in game two with loose balls, didnt have better luck in game three either, but Robertson finally found some luck getting a loose ball and getting a lay up. Wood then found some daylight hitting a three point pull up jumper and then feeding Nolte for a lay up. This was the first time in the game where Wood was able to penetrate and make that extra pass for the basket. Alba Berlin ahd the big lead and here and there missed some shots while Frankfurt couldnt find that consistent vibe on offense as they continued to miss shots and also throw air balls. Skyliner captain Pascal Roller and YY Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) traded baskets at the end, but Alba Berlin still had the huge 50-28 lead. 'Alba Berlin continued to play very aggressive defense and limit us to one shot. We were unable to adjust to their defense', said Skyliner guard Quantez Robertson Alba Berlin was shooting 49% from the field and 23% from the parking lot while The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 22% from the field and 13% from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the slight 28-26 rebound edge, but 10 turnovers while Frankfurt had eight turnovers.

In every quarter, Alba Berlin had quickly jumped on the Deutsche Bank Skyliners the same way Tom the cat tries to on Jerry the mouse, but misses and it wasnt any different in this the fourth quarter as Alba Berlin started off on a mini 4-0 run to lead 54-28 as Immanuel Mcelroy scored inside and Derrick Allen also made a hoop inside. Frankfurt couldnt get consistent stops and just seemed discouraged on offense as they were searching for ways to penetrate the Alba Berlin defense, but remained unlucky. Wood found some space once in a while as he set up Nolte with a bounce pass, but then again got killed by the Alba Berlin version of Super Tez as energy bundle Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) snuck inside and some how soared over way taller players for an offensive rebound and put back and then found a loose ball and finished with a dunk. In between Taylor was stripping balls and forcing Frankfurt to cough up the ball. 'I havent been shooting the ball well, so I try to bring different aspects to the game like my defense', said Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports). Nothing changed much in the score as Alba Berlin led 60-35. With five minutes to go, there seemed little hope for The Deutsche Bank Skyliners to stage some kind of miraculous comeback simply because a Jordan, Lebron or Kobe were not on the court. Frankfurt did get stronger closing out the game on a 17-8 run, but it was too late too little and Alba Berlin might have shifted down a gear or two as well. After Taylor Rochestie dropped a three pointer fro the 63-37 lead, there was no stopping the Alba Berlin bench from smiling or Henning Harnisch to show some teeth in the stands behind their bench. Down the stretch, Kimmo Muurinen scored and Canadian national player Jevohn Shepherd found the free throw line and also did a monster block on Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports), but time was running out as Frankfurt trailed 65-47. Heiko Schaffartzik then nailed another three pointer as Alba Berlin led 68-47 and were also looking ahead in their minds to game four in Berlin Sunday. Frankfurt has DaShaun Wood and Alba Berlin 12 players. 'You have to give a lot of credit to the guys from the bench. Lucca Staiger and Heiko Schaffartzik changed the intensity of the game as did Julius Jenkins even though you dont think of him as a bench player', joked Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports). Kimmo Muurinen scored inside and Shepherd ended the game with a three pointer as Alba Berlin won 68-52. 'It was simply one of those days where nothing went right. We all tried. I dont know if it had to do with our preparation or if we just werent loose enough. We lacked that one player to be the spark that we needed to come back', stressed Kimmo Muurinen. 'Alba Berlin did a good job making the extra pass. They played well together giving them the extra push', commented ex Braunschweig center Jannik Freese.

Alba Berlin was led by Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) with 14 points and five rebounds. Tadija Dragcevic contributed 10 points and five rebounds. Heiko Schaffartzik added nine points, three rebounds and three assists. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were led by DaShaun Wood with 10 points and four assists and Marius Nolte (206-C-81, agency: Limelight Hoops) had 10 points and three rebounds. Frankfurt had done a good job in game two with the size difference making up with their quickness, but had problems in game three with the size. 'YY Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) was huge for us. He played great and gives us the confidence that when we put the ball inside that something good will happen. Raduljica is a beast. Having them both at the five position is a tough combination for the opponent', stressed Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports). Frankfurt shot only 25% from the field and 14% from outside as Alba Berlin was able to play consistent aggressive defense limiting DaShaun Wood, but not really changing anything in their defense. 'Wood cant be a Superman every night. They locked him up well and never let him in his comfort zone', stressed Kimmo Muurinen. 'We didnt really change anything on defense. It really had to do with effort. We know that Wood is their motor and we made them work for everything', commented Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports). 'Alba Belrin didnt do anything different on defense. They played hard, but we just couldnt make shots. I had open looks, but sometimes you have days like that. Wood is tired. He just needs rest. His energy for us is being fast', added Roger Powell. 'If Wood is defended well then it will be tough for Frankfurt to win. Wood is Frankfurt this season', warned Jannik Freese. 'Alba Belrin threw different defensive sets at him. He was pressured all night long and made him make tough shots', warned Quantez Robertson

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners now have their backs to the wall in a do or die game four in Berlin on Sunday. Alba Berlin has the momentum again, but that should be no problem as they were faced with that before in game two. 'Anything is possible. We need some rest now. We had momentum going into game three and they won. They have the momentum going into game four and now it should be our tuen to win again', warned Roger Powell. 'Game four has to do with being mentally focused and knowing our opponent', added Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports). 'Frankfurt will have to play with foam in their mouths form the first minute. This will be a very difficult task for Frankfurt. The whole team will have to play together', warned Jannik Freese. 'I hope that this was not my last game in the Ballsporthalle. I want to play in game five and then in the final games. Alba Berlin was the aggressor in game three. We waited to long to see what they would do. This cant happen in game four. We will have to be the aggressor in game four', warned Pascal Roller. Alba Berlin host The Deutsche Bank Skyliners in game four May 29th at 18:00.

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

GREECE

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. Thompson, Ikaros	14.1
7. Dikoudis, AEK	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. Dawson, Ilysiakos	6.6
10. Kommatos, Marousi	6.5

Assists Per Game

Jared JORDAN
  VAP K.
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Jordan, VAP K.	5.5
2. Spanoulis, Olympia.	5.3
3. Teodosic, Olympiak.	4.8
4. Diamantidis, Panat.	4.5
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

Jimmy BAXTER
  Ilysiakos
  (198-G-80)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Baxter, Ilysiakos	1.8
2. Karydas, Ilysiakos	1.8
3. Xanthopoulos, Pane.	1.7
4. Anderson, Panionios	1.7
5. Marshall, PAOK	1.6
6. Papaloukas, Olymp.	1.6
7. Papamakarios, Pane.	1.5
8. Stiggers, PAOK	1.5
9. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos	1.4
10. Jamon Lukas, Oly.	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. Dunston, Aris	0.9
6. Nesterovic, Olymp.	0.9
7. Bourousis, Olympia.	0.9
8. Harissis, VAP K.	0.8
9. Dozier, PAOK	0.7
10. Vougioukas, Pana.	0.6

A1 Round 1 of Finals. Panathinaikos draw first blood - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

Olympiakos - Panathinaikos 70-75

Panathinaikos stunned Olympiakos on the road in the championship series opener. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 41-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Olympiakos helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The former international guard Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) fired 21 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists for the winners. American forward Mike Batiste (203-77, college: Arizona St.) chipped in 13 points and 6 rebounds. International center Ioannis Bourousis (212-83, agency: FCM) produced 14 points and 7 rebounds and international center Loukas Mavrokefalides (207-84) added 8 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Panathinaikos: D.Diamantidis 21+5reb+9ast, A.Maric 14+5reb, M.Batiste 13+6reb+1ast, N.Calathes 6+1reb+1ast, A.Fotsis 5+5reb, D.Nicholas 4+4reb+3ast
Olympiakos: M.Teodosic 14+1reb+1ast, I.Bourousis 14+7reb, V.Spanoulis 12+1reb+4ast, T.Papaloukas 9+2reb+1ast, L.Mavrokefalides 8+8reb+1ast, G.Jamon Lukas 7+3reb+5ast

3-4 place

PAOK - Aris 76-74

PAOK celebrated the opening win in the Bronze medals series. It looked good early as Aris took an 6-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then PAOK had a 26-15 second period charge getting the lead and Aris was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 74-76. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Robert Dozier (206-85, college: Memphis) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 5 rebounds. FYR Macedonian center Todor Gechevski (209-77, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. PAOK's coach Soulis Markopoulos allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American guard Bobby Brown (188-84, college: Cal.St. Fullerton, agency: Priority Sports) answered with 24 points and 4 assists and Bosnian power forward Edin Bavcic (210-84, agency: Beo Basket) added 12 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Aris. Four Aris players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
PAOK: R.Dozier 17+5reb+3ast, R.Marshall 17+2reb+1ast, T.Gechevski 15+7reb+1ast, G.Dedas 6+1ast, D.Christmas 5+4reb, M.Giannakidis 5+2reb+1ast
Aris: B.Brown 24+3reb+4ast, E.Bavcic 12+8reb+2ast, K.Sloukas 11+6reb+2ast, N.Hatzivrettas 10+2reb+1ast, A.King 7+6reb, K.Charalampidis 7+3reb

Sofoklis Schortsanitis tastes gold in Israel - by Eurobasket News
Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85) tastes gold in Israel as his Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv revenged for the loss last year and took the title back from Galil Gilboa. The latter became the winner of the Israeli Play-offs in 2009/2010 as they upset Maccabi T-A 90:77 in the Final Game. Trailing 8 points at the halftime, the winners were awesome in the second half and grabbed the Gold of the country.
Tonight Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv dominated the arena and won 91:64. The favorites started with 24-13 and then added 23-22 in the second period. Moreover Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv won the third and the last quarters to triumph in the country. David Blu stepped up with 19 points, while Chuck Eidson netted 13. Sofoklis Schortsanitis ended up with 9 points and 4 rebounds. Courtney Fells replied with 25 points in the losing effort and Marco Killingsworth scored 11.
This season for Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv (Israel-Premier League, starting five)Sofoklis Schortsanitis averaged 12.0ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 58.1%, FT: 62.5% in EuroLeague and had 11.9 points per game in Greece.

Castle moves from Greek AEK to Swedish AEK Stockholm! - by George Fragkos
After year at the Greek AEK Athens, Terell Castle (182-G-72, agency: Court Side, college: Nicholls St.) decided to spend another at the Swedish one. The 39-yaer-old guard has agreed terms with AEK BBK Stockholm, a Swedish team which plays at the second division of Sweden and is currently trying to ascend to the first. AEK Stockholm and Castle have agreed for a one-year contract and the Swedish club has already made the announcement through its official website.

For Castle this is not going to be a total change, even though the two countries are completely different to each other. AEK Stockholm is a club owned by Greeks who live in Stockholm and it is almost dedicated to AEK Athens. One of the most important resemblances between the two clubs is their signs, which are absolutely identical. Moreover, the chairman of the team, Mr. Tsirambidis is also Greek and as a fan of AEK Athens he keeps contact with the supporters of the Athens club in Greece.

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

ISRAEL

Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv take the title back from Galil Gilboa - by Eurobasket News
Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv revenged for the loss last year and took the title back from Galil Gilboa. The latter became the winner of the Israeli Play-offs in 2009/2010 as they upset Maccabi T-A 90:77 in the Final Game. Trailing 8 points at the halftime, the winners were awesome in the second half and grabbed the Gold of the country.
Tonight Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv dominated the arena and won 91:64. The favorites started with 24-13 and then added 23-22 in the second period. Moreover Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv won the third and the last quarters to triumph in the country. David Blu (201-F-80, college: USC) stepped up with 19 points, while Chuck Eidson (202-F/G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Carolina) netted 13. Courtney Fells (198-F/G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) replied with 25 points in the losing effort and Marco Killingsworth scored 11.
In the game for the third place Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem overcame Maccabi Rishon Lezion 94:74. The latter played better in the beginning of the game taking 23-18 in the first quarter, but then Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem needed 27-14 in the second frame to seal the win. Yuval Naimy (188-PG-85) paced all the winners with 24 points and Jason Rich (191-G-86) added 21. Nizan Hanochi (194-G-86) replied with 26 points in the losing effort.

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ITALY

Bargnani backpedals on comments critical of Raptors, Colangelo - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Star reported on Wednesday that Raptors center Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85), chosen by the Raptors with the No. 1 pick in the 2006 draft, might not be so happy with the city of Toronto or general manager Bryan Colangelo. Citing an interview done in Italian with Sky Sports television, Bargnani reportedly said, I want to stay in Toronto, at least this is the politically correct answer. If (I am) to go somewhere else, Id like a warm climate city and a team where I can actually play in my role.

He then further commented on criticism handed out by Colangelo, who said after the season that Bargnanis defense and rebounding had not improved the way the team had hoped. Colangelo was recently signed to a long-term deal. (Colangelo) had some unfortunate and not very courageous comments about me, Bargnani was quoted as saying. The facts are there for everybody to see and judge.

Andrea Bargnani says his criticism of the Raptors and Toronto was taken out of context. (AP Photo)By Wednesday afternoon, though, Bargnani released a statement, through the team, claiming his quotes were taken out of context.

I want to make clear my love for Toronto and that I consider the city a second home, Bargnani said. I never said that I want to leave Toronto and I'm sorry if fans interpreted the inaccuracy that way.

He went on to say: I am proud to represent Toronto and the Raptors organization. I appreciate what Bryan Colangelo and the organization has done for me during the past five years of my career. I will always continue to work to improve myself as a player in an effort to reward the organization and our fans with the best team possible.

Bargnani averaged a career-high 21.4 points but just 5.2 rebounds this year.
Courtesy of: aol.sportingnews.com/

stats leader

Points Per Game

Marco EVANGELISTI
  Trapani
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 17.8

1. Evangelisti, Trapa.	17.8
2. Tassinari, Moncali.	17.6
3. Musso, Perugia	16.9
4. Ricciardi, Palestr.	16.8
5. Rugolo, Molfetta	16.8
6. Masper, Moncalieri	16.7
7. Vico, Matera	16.0
8. Carrizo, Ferentino	15.9
9. Conte, Trento	15.8
10. Benevelli, Trento	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Bagnoli, Potenza	11.4
2. Rosignoli, Biscegl.	9.8
3. Corral, Molfetta	9.4
4. Capitanelli, Pales.	8.8
5. Zambon, Rieti	8.7
6. Chiaramello, Recan.	8.6
7. Basei, Ostuni	8.5
8. Facenda, Senigallia	8.1
9. Soloperto, Latina	7.9
10. Benevelli, Trento	7.8

Assists Per Game

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

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

Steals Per Game

Francesco GUARINO
  Trapani
  (182-G-79)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Guarino, Trapani	3.6
2. Bonamente, Perugia	3.2
3. De Nicolao, Castel.	3.0
4. Gullo, Patti	2.9
5. Malamov, Ruvo	2.8
6. Bushati, Brescia	2.8
7. Palombita, Castell.	2.7
8. Cisse, ASD Pavia	2.7
9. Musso, Perugia	2.7
10. Parente, Moncalie.	2.6

Blocks Per Game

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

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

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. Jackson, Prima Ver.	19.7
4. Crispin, Barcellona	19.6
5. Gordon, Forli	19.5
6. Ebi, Aget Imola	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.	9.1
3. Varnado, Tuscany	8.9
4. Boykin, Assigeco	8.1
5. Dickens, San Seve.	8.0
6. Waleskowski, Tezen.	7.9
7. Chiacig, Trenkwald.	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.	4.1
5. Clark, Umana Reyer	3.9
6. Marigney, Assigeco	3.8
7. Whiting, Aget Imola	3.8
8. Farabello, N.Fer.	3.7
9. Nardi, Forli	3.7
10. Mathis, Snaidero.	3.7

Steals Per Game

Alessandro PIAZZA
  Immobili.
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 3

1. Piazza, Immobili.	3.0
2. Ebi, Aget Imola	2.9
3. Robinson, Trenkwal.	2.6
4. Davis, Sunrise	2.6
5. Roderick, Immobi.	2.6
6. Filloy, Immobili.	2.5
7. Cerella, Assigeco	2.4
8. Whiting, Aget Imola	2.4
9. Hunter, Sunrise	2.3
10. Hicks, 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. Cutolo, San Severo	0.7
6. Frosini, Trenkwald.	0.7
7. Boykin, Assigeco	0.7
8. Bryan, Umana Reyer	0.7
9. Filloy, Immobili.	0.6
10. Nnamaka, Fastw.	0.6

A dilettanti Round 5 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Ostuni - Treviglio 83-61

Assi Basket Ostuni defeated 83-61 Comark Treviglio in the 5th and decisive game of the Semifinal Series, advancing to the second Promotion Playoff, where will meet Trapani. Ostuni outrebounded Treviglio 48-27 including a 33-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by Treviglio helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Naturalized Argentinian forward Silvio Gigena (200-75) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds. Center Francesco Basei (207-83) contributed with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners. Four Ostuni players scored in double figures. Forward Riccardo Castelli (202-88) answered with 15 points and center Jacopo Borra (212-90) added 8 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Treviglio. Treviglio's coach Simone Lottici gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Ostuni: S.Gigena 17+12reb+2ast, F.Basei 15+11reb+2ast, M.Gigena 15+4reb+4ast, C.Tommasini 12+5reb+5ast, D.Morena 8+6reb, M.Bona 6+5reb
Treviglio: R.Castelli 15+4reb, T.Milani 9+1reb+2ast, J.Borra 8+9reb, D.Reati 7+5reb+5ast, G.Zanella 6+2reb, T.De Min 6+2reb

Enel Brindisi and Bologna look for new head coaches - by Eurobasket News
Enel Brindisi ceased cooperation with Luca Bechi . The 41-year-old head coach was hired by the team back in January. He replaced Giovanni Perdichizzi. However changes at the bridge did not help Enel Brindisi. The team finished Seria A regular season at 8-22 record and got relegated into LegaDue. Luca Bechi longed worked with Angelico Biella before getting Enel Brindisi job.
Virtus Bologna also will look for new head coach. The team parted ways with Lino Lardo (agency: Players Group ). The 51-year-old specialist took over Bologna back in 2009/10 season. He led the team to Seria A quarterfinals this season where Bologna surrendered to Montepaschi Siena. Previously Lino Lardo (agency: Players Group ) had stints with Bergamo, Verona, Reggio Calabria, Armani Jeans and Rieti. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Italian Seria A Coach of the Year in 2005.

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KOSOVO

Sigal Prishtina takes 1-0 lead on the finals - by Onur Deqani
Sigal Prishtine took 1-0 lead on the play-off finals as they beat KB Peja in first game of the finals. at their home court 94-78. It was a game leaded by the hosts from the beginning until the end , although Peja show some good performances to let us understand that they will not quit so quickly.
Sigal Prishtine started the match briefly with a 12-2 run in the first 3 minutes, and the first quarter ended 26-19 on their advantage, with points mostly scored by veteran Edmond Azemi. In the beginning of the second period KB Peja, led by Demarius Bolds minimized the hosts advantage to three points (28-25). But then Sigal Prishtine came with some back-to-back points, led by their pivot Blerim Mazreku (206-F/C-81) and they took it till the highest difference of the game:49-28, and the first half result was 53-35.
Third period showed great performance of KB Peja's playmaker Samir Shaptahovic, who led his team with his scoring abilities, especially with three-pointers as they came close to four points (66-62), but a three-pointer of Valentin Spaqi ended the third period with seven points difference. The fourth period started with equal scorings, while the hosts started feeling the win 6 minutes before the end when they took the score to 77-64, and at the end it was 94-78.
Blerim Mazreku scored 24 points on this win, and Edmond Azemi added 20. On the other side Demarius Bolds was the highest-scorer of the match with 30 points but he couldn't save his team from losing. Samir Shaptahovic also added 25 points for KB Peja. Key absence for KB Peja on this game was the injury of Justin Dobbins on the second period.
The second match will be played this weekend in Peja.

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

LATVIA

Janis Berzins invited for try-outs by Cajasol - by Greg
After successful season with BK Valmiera in Latvian league Latvian prospect Janis Berzins (201-F/G-93) was invited for try-outs by Spanish powerhouse Cajasol Sevilla. One of the most intriguing youngsters in the Baltic region, Berzins got quality minutes in 2010/11 season for BK Valmiera and shined in Baltic Sea Cup in Tallinn getting MVP trophy while playing for Latvian U18 team. Berzins was averaging 6.1ppg and 2.8rpg in 18 minutes per game in Latvian league.

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

LEBANON

Sagesse signs Vujanic for 3 years and starts preparing for next season. - by Rabih Khoury
Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut management agreed to terms with coach Toni Vujanic to coach the team for the next 3 years. The experienced coach will be back to the green castle after the 2006-2007 season where he led the team to the final 4 with limited conditions.. Also Vujanic led Mouttahed Tripoly to the historical finals for 2 seasons. Last season, he took Anibal and reached the 5th sport in the League after finishing in the last positions in the previous years.. Vujanic will start his preparations soon in Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut and he will complete the roster in the next few weeks.

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MEXICO

CIBACOPA Round 2 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Hermosillo - Nogales 76-75

Hermosillo scraped past Nogales to take 2-0 lead in the series. The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 22-18 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Rayos de Hermosillo made 20-of-21 free shots (95.2 percent) during the game, while Fuerza Guinda Nogales only scored two points from the stripe. The best player for the winners was American center Marquise Gray (206-86, college: Michigan St.) who had a double-double by scoring 23 points and 14 rebounds (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!). The other American import forward Lorrenzo Wade (198-85, college: San Diego St.) chipped in 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 blocks. Four Rayos de Hermosillo players scored in double figures. American-Venezuelan forward Jermaine Walker (198-77, college: Miami, FL) produced 30 points and 7 rebounds and Bahamas power forward Ryan Moss (200-74, college: UALR) added 16 points and 10 rebounds respectively for the guests.
Top scorers:
Hermosillo: M.Gray 23+14reb, L.Wade 20+5reb, J.Lopez 15+9reb, E.Medina 10+2reb+2ast, T.Thomas 4+4reb+1ast, J.Manuel Esteva 4+2reb+1ast
Nogales: J.Walker 30+7reb, R.Moss 16+10reb, B.Heredia 11+1reb+1ast, N.Brown 7+5reb+2ast, O.Quintero 5+2reb+4ast, J.Mercado 4+3reb

Culiacan - Mexicali 82-80 OT

Culiacan needed an overtime to edge Mexicali for the second straight win in the series. The hosts trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 24-19 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 2-point victory in overtime. The best player for the winners was American guard Marcus Moore (198-80, college: Washington St.) who scored 23 points and 7 assists. Naturalized American forward Quentin Gonzalez (200-84, college: McNeese St.) chipped in 20 points and 8 rebounds. American forward James Penny (198-76, college: TCU) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 14 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Michael Gale (193-82, college: Centenary) added 24 points, 5 assists and 4 steals respectively for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Culiacan: M.Moore 23+4reb+7ast, Q.Gonzalez 20+8reb, R.Rougeau 14+10reb+2ast, A.Henning 14+5reb+3ast, F.Verdugo 6+1reb+2ast, V.Avila 3+2reb+1ast
Mexicali: M.Gale 24+1reb+5ast, J.Penny 16+14reb+2ast, R.Lopez 15+2ast, H.Carrillo 14+4reb, S.VanderMeer 8+9reb, P.Giron 3

Guasave - Guaymas 97-93

Guasave are now 2-0 up on Guaymas after another home victory. The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 24-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Ostioneros de Guaymas were plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was guard Kevin Sowell (190-G-81) who scored 36 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds. Guard Rasheem Barrett (196-87, college: Auburn, agency: SportsList Inc.) chipped in 26 points and 6 rebounds. Sowell is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Guard Craig Winder (188-84, college: Texas, agency: Prossin Sports Management) produced 33 points (!!!) and 6 assists and guard Richard Roby (198-85) added 18 points and 10 rebounds respectively for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Ostioneros de Guaymas' coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Guasave: K.Sowell 36+5reb+1ast, R.Barrett 26+6reb+3ast, M.Strobbe 13+9reb, W.Funn 11+8reb+7ast, A.Izaguirre 9+8reb+4ast, L.Reinhold 2
Guaymas: C.Winder 33+4reb+6ast, R.Roby 18+10reb+1ast, A.Pedroza 17+3reb+2ast, F.Benitez 12+2reb, R.Benitez 7+5reb+2ast, R.Navarro 2+1reb

Cananea - Tijuana 101-84

Cananea prevailed against Tijuana to clear off in the quarterfinal series. The game without a history. Mineros de Cananea led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 23-of-27 free shots (85.2 percent) during the game. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was guard Davin White (186-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) who scored 32 points and 6 assists. Forward Brandon Brown (201-85, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) chipped in 24 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). Brown is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Mineros de Cananea's coach used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Travis Gabbidon (201, college: UTSA) produced 27 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and power forward Cyrus Tate (203-85, college: Iowa, agency: Edge Sports) added 24 points respectively for the guests. Four Tijuana Zonkeys players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Cananea: D.White 32+3reb+6ast, B.Brown 24+6reb+1ast, D.Thomas 17+7reb+5ast, J.Casillas 8+2reb+2ast, M.Acuna 5+1reb+3ast, D.Onofre 5
Tijuana: T.Gabbidon 27+7reb+4ast, C.Tate 24+2reb+2ast, J.Watson 15+3reb+3ast, N.Velasquez 13+2reb, L.Ramirez 3+2reb+3ast, G.Lira 2+5reb+1ast

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin SOWELL
  Guasave
  (190-G-81)
  Avg: 34.3

1. Sowell, Guasave	34.3
2. White, Cananea	28.3
3. Sowell, Culiacan	27.3
4. Gale, Mexicali	26.8
5. Brown, Tepic	24.8
6. White, Los Mochis	24.2
7. Moore, Culiacan	23.9
8. Gabbidon, Tijuana	23.5
9. Barrett, Guasave	23.3
10. Brown, Tepic	23.3

Rebounds Per Game

Brandon BROWN
  Cananea
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 11.2

1. Brown, Cananea	11.2
2. VanderMeer, Mexica.	10.4
3. Moss, Nogales	10.0
4. Angounou, Guasave	9.8
5. Brown, Tepic	9.6
6. Broxsie, Nogales	8.7
7. Malloy, Los Mochis	8.7
8. Shipley, Tijuana	8.6
9. Thomas, Hermosillo	8.1
10. Rougeau, Culiacan	7.9

Assists Per Game

William FUNN
  Guasave
  (188-G-82)
  Avg: 8.8

1. Funn, Guasave	8.8
2. Watson, Tijuana	5.8
3. White, Los Mochis	5.7
4. White, Cananea	5.3
5. Thomas, Hermosillo	4.8
6. Nungaray, Guaymas	4.5
7. Brown, Tepic	4.4
8. Monreal, Hermosillo	4.2
9. Marentes, Guaymas	4.1
10. Meza, Culiacan	3.7

Steals Per Game

Davin WHITE
  Cananea
  (186-G-81)
  Avg: 2.2

1. White, Cananea	2.2
2. Moore, Culiacan	2.1
3. Thomas, Cananea	1.7
4. Gale, Mexicali	1.7
5. Sowell, Guasave	1.7
6. White, Los Mochis	1.6
7. Funn, Guasave	1.6
8. Brown, Nogales	1.6
9. Rougeau, Culiacan	1.6
10. Brown, Cananea	1.6

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Sowell, Culiacan	3.2
2. Sowell, Guasave	2.9
3. Gale, Mexicali	2.7
4. White, Los Mochis	2.2
5. Shipley, Tijuana	2.2
6. Brown, Tepic	2.1
7. Funn, Guasave	2.1
8. Brown, Tepic	2.0
9. Brown, Nogales	2.0
10. Thomas, Hermosillo	2.0

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NBA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.Ci.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 27.9

1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	27.9
2. James, Miami Heat	26.6
3. Rose, Chicago B.	25.4
4. Wade, Miami Heat	25.3
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.	23.9
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.	8.0
9. Westbrook, Oklah..	7.8
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. Kidd, Dallas M.	1.8
6. Allen, Memphis G.	1.8
7. Wall, Washington W.	1.8
8. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.8
9. Gay, Memphis G.	1.7
10. Conley, Memphis G.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

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

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

Lakers hire Mike Brown as head coach - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Lakers will hire Michael Brown as their new head coach. Michael Brown replaces Phil Jackson on the Lakers bench.

'We've met with Mike and are very impressed with him,' the Lakers said in a statement. 'In addition, we have an outline for an agreement in place and hope to sign a contract within the next few days.'
Michael Brown , who coached the Cavaliers from 2005-06 to 2009-10, has agreed to a four-year, $18 million deal, according to ESPN.com. There's also a team option for a fourth year, and if the Lakers don't pick it up, Michael Brown is guaranteed to receive $2.5 million that year, the report says. The Lakers have not announced Michael Brown s defensive-minded style is a main reason he appealed to the organization, and particularly to Jim Buss, the executive vice president of player personnel, according to the Los Angeles Times. Michael Brown also has experience coaching superstars, having had LeBron James on his Cavaliers roster. That may have also appealed to the Lakers, who are led by star guard Kobe Bryant.

A source told SI.com that Bryant was 'surprised' by the hire and that he was not a part of the decision-making process, but ESPN.com Chris Broussard tweeted, 'Kobe on board with hiring of Michael Brown , has great respect for him, according to sources.'

Lakers owner Jerry Buss said on Sirius/XM Radio Tuesday that the front office did not consult players on the hire.

'Obviously, we have to select somebody who has a reputation that players would be happy with,' Buss said. 'But to ask a direct player to select a particular coach, that's general manager territory. That's out of the player domain.'

The Cavaliers had a 272-138 record during Michael Brown s five-year tenure in Cleveland. He earned coach of the year honors in 2009 and brought the Cavs to the NBA Finals in 2007, when they were swept by the Spurs.

Michael Brown was fired by the Cavaliers after the team was eliminated by the Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals in 2010.
Courtesy of: http://aol.sportingnews.com

Mavericks Reach NBA Finals, Beat Thunder 100-96 In Game 5 - by Eurobasket News

Dallas M. - Oklah.City T. 100-96
DALLAS - Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78), Jason Kidd (6'4''-G-73, college: California) and the Dallas Mavericks are going back to the NBA finals. Nowitzki swished a go-ahead 3-pointer with 1:14 left and Shawn Marion (6'7''-F-78, college: UNLV) followed with a three-point play off a steal, the pivotal plays in yet another fourth-quarter comeback, this one sending the Mavericks to a 100-96 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night that closed out the Western Conference finals in five games. After clawing back from down 15 with 5:04 left in Game 4, the Mavericks were down by six with 4:37 left in this one when they rallied again, outscoring the Thunder 14-4 the rest of the way. Dallas has never won a championship, and neither has any of its players. Nowitzki and Jason Terry (6'2''-G-77, college: Arizona) were part of the only Mavericks team to make the finals, in 2006. They were up 2-0 and leading late in Game 3, but lost the series to the Miami Heat in six games. Dallas could get another crack at the Heat. LeBron James and Miami lead the Chicago Bulls 3-1 in the Eastern Conference finals. If the Heat win Thursday night, the finals will begin Tuesday in Miami. If the Bulls win Thursday night, the finals will begin next Thursday in the East winner's city. 'All I can tell everybody is, we ain't done yet,' Mavs owner Mark Cuban said during the on-court trophy presentation ceremony. Seconds later, fans began chanting, 'Beat the Heat,' drowning out coach Rick Carlisle's on-court interview. Nowitzki and Marion each scored 26 points, and were at their best in the fourth quarter. Nowitzki scored nine in the final period, and Marion had 15. J.J. Barea added 14 and Terry scored 12 in a victory that set off the biggest on-court celebration in franchise history. The only other time the Mavs made the finals, they won in Phoenix. This time, the home folks got to enjoy it, including franchise founder Don Carter, who traded his signature white cowboy hat - the one that used to be featured in the team's logo - for a black hat that read 'The Finals 2011' with a Mavs logo and the championship trophy. Fans roared again when the overhead video board showed Nowitzki wearing the hat.

Russell Westbrook (6'3''-G-88, college: UCLA) scored 31 points and seemed to be on a mission to force the series back to Oklahoma City. But he had two crucial turnovers during the furious finish. Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) and James Harden finished with 23 points apiece for the Thunder, a young team whose future is bright but who at this point still has a lot to learn about closing out big games. Courtesy of: huffingtonpost.com

Miami Heat: Winning Plays - by Daniel Gibson
MIAMI---The biggest play of game 4 came in overtime with 25 seconds left and the score Miami 97, Chicago 91.

LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) had hit a tough jump shot and Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) was looking to respond quickly with a basket so they could attempt a steal of the inbound pass or foul and hope for Miami to miss free-throws.

How many games have you watched where it seems like in the final 30 seconds teams start playing matador defense, as Walt Clyde Frazier would say, by letting guys drive in for easy layups and hope to get the points back at the line to finish off the game? Too many.

Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) wasn't having that.

As Rose blew past James for what seemed like a clear path to the rim Wade flew from under the basket to swat the shot out to the three-point line.

This is where the defining moment takes place.

It would have been easy for the Heat to celebrate the block and let the ball bounce out of bounds forcing the Bulls to run an inbounds play again, especially after Luol Deng (6'7''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) and Joakim Noah (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Florida) turned the ball over attempting to run a play from that position a few possessions earlier.

But instead of watching the ball roll out of bounds James, who played 49 minutes and guarded Rose in the late in the fourth quarter and OT, battled Noah for the rebound, dove after the loose ball and kept it in bounds.

His effort was followed by another diving save by Udonis Haslem (6'8''-C-80, college: Florida) who has been a much needed boost off of the bench for the Heat from game 2 on.

Eventually Mike Miller (6'8''-F/G-80, college: Florida) picked it up and more time was run off the clock before a foul was committed.

Rose over Anthony and the foul

So in a game that saw Rose flying through Mario Chalmers (6'1''-G-86, college: Kansas) for a huge dunk and a foul, then following that up with a huge dunk around Joel Anthony (6'9''-C-82, college: UNLV) for a basket and a foul, and James running full speed at Deng who thought about taking a charge before coming to his senses and watching James slam it home....the biggest play turned out to be a hustle play with guys diving on the floor and no points being scored.

These pure hustle and effort plays are championship winning plays.

During the regular season sweep of the Miami Heat and following the blowout victory in game 1 all the talk was about the Bulls beating the Heats superior talent by giving maximum effort.

Ever since game 1 the Heat matched the Bulls in terms of effort and at times have out hustled them.

That play right there should send chills to every other team in the league.

Not only does the Heat have more talent than basically every team in the league, mostly due to the big 3, but they are also committed to working hard on the defensive end and making winning plays.

The Heat are looking to close out the series Thursday night in Chicago, send the team with the best record in league and the MVP home, and meet Dallas in the Finals.

I think it will be tough with the Mad House on Madison packed and cheering their hearts out for the hometown hero's but I see the Heat finishing it off in 5.

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

NCAA1

Penn State hires Eddie Fogler to advise - by Eurobasket News
STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- Penn State is getting advice from former Vanderbilt and South Carolina coach Eddie Fogler on the search for Ed DeChellis' replacement.

DeChellis resigned this week after eight seasons as Penn State's coach to take the same job at Navy.

Team spokesman Brian Siegrist said Wednesday that Fogler was hired to assist athletic director Tim Curley. Fogler has also helped with past coaching searches at Georgia Tech and Auburn.

According to multiple sources, Penn State will consider East Carolina coach Jeff Lebo , who is from Carlisle, Pa. Lebo was also recruited to play at North Carolina by Fogler when he was an assistant to then coach Dean Smith. Lebo's father, Dave, was a longtime coach at Carlisle High.

Lebo was fired at Auburn but hired at East Carolina last year and led the Pirates to an 8-8 record in Conference USA and an 18-16 record overall, losing to Jacksonville in overtime in the CIT tournament.

Duquesne coach Ron Everhart would also listen seriously to Penn State, according to a source. Everhart has taken over a number of programs, notably Northeastern and Duquesne, and turned them into winners.

Drexel's Bruiser Flint is getting third-party calls but hasn't heard from Penn State officials, according to a source. Wiconsin-Milwaukee's Rob Jeter remains a possibility, as well.

But sources expect Lebo to be atop the list based on his connections to the area, his reputation as above reproach and the ties to Fogler.

Arizona State coach Herb Sendek , who has ties to the area, reiterated Wednesday that he's staying put with the Sun Devils and isn't a candidate.

Curley said this week that DeChellis' resignation caught him by surprise, coming two months after the Nittany Lions secured their first NCAA tournament bid in a decade. He also said there is no timetable for a hire, though he hopes to move quickly

Courtesy from ESPN.com's Andy Katz and The Associated Press

Ryan Harrow transferring to Kentucky - by Eurobasket News
RALEIGH, N.C. -- Former North Carolina State point guard Ryan Harrow (5'11''-G) says he's transferring to Kentucky.

Harrow announced his decision on Twitter, saying 'I am a Kentucky Wildcat!'

His departure from NC State last month was described as a mutual decision made by the guard and new coach Mark Gottfried, who was hired in April after Sidney Lowe stepped down.

Harrow averaged 9.3 points in 29 games as a freshman, ranking seventh in the ACC with an assist-to-turnover ratio of 1.9. He will sit out this season and will have three years of eligibility starting in 2012-13.

He joins a Kentucky program that recently lost one-and-done freshmen John Wall and Brandon Knight to the NBA and brings in Marquis Teague, one of the nation's highest-rated high school point guards.
Courtesy of: The Associated Press

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

PERU

Standings - Superior

Superior Standings

1. Real Club		13-0
2. Regatas		12-1
3. Escuela Fap		8-4
4. Inmaculada		8-5
5. Ejercito		5-7
6. Centro Naval		4-8
7. San Marcos		2-9
8. Circolo/UAP		0-0
9. Real Amist.		0-0
10. Rinconada		0-0

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

PUERTO RICO

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

1. Bayamon		12-7
2. Santurce		12-8
3. Quebradillas		12-8
4. Guaynabo		12-9
5. San German		11-9
6. Arecibo		11-9
7. Humacao		9-11
8. Coamo		8-12
9. Mayaguez		7-13
10. Isabela		7-15

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game

Angel Daniel VASSALLO
  Guaynabo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 24.7

1. Vassallo, Guaynabo	24.7
2. Ramos, Quebradillas	24.4
3. Dalmau, Bayamon	22.0
4. Ayuso, Arecibo	20.9
5. Villegas, Coamo	19.8
6. Johnson, Humacao	19.4
7. Harris, San German	18.6
8. Romero, Mayaguez	18.6
9. Clemente, Humacao	17.7
10. Randolph, Isabela	17.0

Rebounds Per Game

Manuel Antonio NARVAEZ
  Coamo
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 12.3

1. Narvaez, Coamo	12.3
2. Harris, San German	11.9
3. Randolph, Isabela	11.9
4. Pruitt, Guaynabo	11.7
5. Ramos, Quebradillas	11.4
6. Lloreda, San G.	10.9
7. Rickert, Bayamon	10.8
8. Romero, Mayaguez	9.7
9. Sweetney, Santurce	9.7
10. Shannon, Bayamon	9.2

Assists Per Game

Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Dalmau, Bayamon	6.4
2. Brown, Quebradillas	5.9
3. Guzman, Guaynabo	4.8
4. Clinch, Isabela	4.5
5. Clemente, Humacao	4.5
6. Rivera, Mayaguez	4.4
7. Apodaca, Quebradil.	4.4
8. Vega, Coamo	4.2
9. Copeland, Arecibo	4.1
10. Copeland, San G.	3.8

Steals Per Game

Darnell HINSON
  Isabela
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 1.9

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Lamizana, Mayaguez	3.0
2. Penn, Humacao	2.8
3. Santiago, Arecibo	2.1
4. Traylor, Bayamon	2.0
5. Romero, Mayaguez	1.9
6. Aubry, Arecibo	1.8
7. Sanchez, Santurce	1.7
8. Randolph, Isabela	1.6
9. Robinson, Mayaguez	1.5
10. Harris, San German	1.4

Mayaguez sign deal with Sean Williams - by Eurobasket News
Mayaguez made some roster changes. They released Dwayne Jones (211-C-83, college: St.Joseph's) and landed Sean Williams (208-F-86, college: Boston Coll.). Dwayne Jones arrived to Puerto Rico from China where he played for Fujan XunXin. The 27-year-old centre tallied 7.7 points and 8.3 rebounds per game for the Indios in BSN season.
Sean Williams played for Frisco Texas Legends this season. The forward tallied 14.3 points, 9.6 rebounds, 1.9 blocks and 1.2 assists per game in D-League. Sean Williams is not new to Puerto Rico. He played for Guaynabo in 2010. He played two games in BSN averaging 10 points and 6.5 boards per appearance. Sean Williams participated at Puerto Rican BSN All-Star Game in 2010.

BSN Round 18 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Guaynabo - Santurce 110-111 OT

Fourth ranked Cangrejeros won an overtime thriller against second-best Mets by one point 111-110 on Wednesday night. The game took place in Guaynabo. But the guests from Santurce were better at the end. It was a key game for the second position in the league. Mets were tied after three quarters and then recorded another tie at the end of regular time. They were eventually defeated in overtime 13-14. Cangrejeros made 26-of-29 free shots (89.7 percent) during the game. Cangrejeros outrebounded Mets 51-38 including 19 on the offensive glass. The best player for the winners was American forward Michael Sweetney (203-82, college: Georgetown) who had a double-double by scoring 28 points, 20 rebounds and 5 assists. Naturalized Ivorian guard Walter Hodge (183-86, college: Florida) chipped in 32 points (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). Cangrejeros' coach Rolando Hourruitiner used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international swingman Angel Luis Figueroa (196-81, college: Dowling, agency: Paris Global Sports) who recorded 17 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and American center Shaun Pruitt (208-85, college: Illinois, agency: Edge Sports) added 16 points and 9 rebounds respectively. Four Cangrejeros and five Mets players scored in double figures. Cangrejeros have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Quebradillas. Mets at the other side dropped to the fourth position with nine games lost. Cangrejeros will face league's leader Vaqueros in Bayamon in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Mets will play again on the road against the league's second-placed Cangrejeros in Santurce and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guaynabo: S.Villegas 19+4reb+1ast, R.Dalmau 18+3reb+2ast, A.Luis Figueroa 17+6reb+5ast, S.Pruitt 16+9reb+2ast, C.Escalera 15+4reb+5ast, A.Daniel Vassallo 14+6reb+5ast
Santurce: W.Hodge 32+4reb+3ast, M.Sweetney 28+20reb+5ast, R.Sanchez 21+10reb+1ast, R.Chaney 11+4reb+1ast, A.Reyes 6+7reb+1ast, W.Pagan 6+3reb+1ast

Quebradillas - Arecibo 86-93

There was an upset when second-best Quebradillas (12-8) were defeated at home by sixth ranked Capitanes (11-9) 93-86 on Tuesday. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 23-14. But Quebradillas won second period 22-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Capitanes made 16-of-17 free shots (94.1 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was international guard Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC) who scored 39 points (!!!). International guard Guillermo Diaz (188-85, college: Miami, FL) chipped in 14 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was international center Peter John Ramos (222-85) who recorded a double-double by scoring 29 points and 17 rebounds and the former international guard Rick Apodaca (192-80, college: Hofstra, agency: Paris Global Sports) added 14 points and 4 assists respectively. Five Quebradillas players scored in double figures. Capitanes have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with San German. Loser Quebradillas keep the second position with eight games lost. Capitanes will face Indios (#9) in Mayaguez in the next round. Quebradillas will play at home against Indios (#9) in Mayaguez.
Top scorers:
Quebradillas: P.John Ramos 29+17reb+3ast, R.Apodaca 14+4reb+4ast, D.Huertas 11+3reb+3ast, J.Jones 11+1reb+4ast, M.Worthington 10+7reb+2ast, S.Rosas 5+2reb
Arecibo: L.Ayuso 39+4reb, G.Diaz 14+6reb+7ast, D.Pinnock 13+7reb+3ast, D.Copeland 7, A.Falcon 6+2reb, D.Cortes 6+4reb+2ast

Isabela - Mayaguez 78-86

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams in Isabela where tenth ranked Indios (7-13) defeated bottom-ranked Gallitos (7-15) 86-78 on Tuesday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Gallitos won third quarter 19-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Indios made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. Indios outrebounded Gallitos 39-24 including 25 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Gallitos' players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Indios made 7 blocks. The best player for the winners was guard Carlos Rivera (187-83, college: Hofstra, agency: Paris Global Sports) who scored 27 points, 8 assists and 5 steals (went 12 for 12 at the free throw line !!!). American forward Brandon Robinson (202-81, college: Auburn, agency: Paris Global Sports) chipped in 9 points and 8 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Shavlik Randolph (208-83, college: Duke) who recorded a double-double by scoring 24 points and 12 rebounds and naturalized American guard Darnell Hinson (186-80, college: Northeastern St.) added 18 points respectively. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Indios moved-up to ninth place. Gallitos lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom position with 15 games lost. Indios will face higher ranked Capitanes (#6) in Arecibo in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.
Top scorers:
Isabela: S.Randolph 24+12reb, D.Hinson 18+1reb+3ast, A.David Galindo 16+1reb, F.Valencia 6+2reb+2ast, J.Verdejo 4+1ast, J.Soto 3+1reb+1ast
Mayaguez: C.Rivera 27+4reb+8ast, E.Rodriguez 11+2reb, A.Carmona 10+1reb, B.Robinson 9+8reb+2ast, R.Clemente 8+5reb, D.Jones 8+8reb+1ast

Guaynabo - Bayamon 88-103

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams in Guaynabo where second-best Mets (12-9) were defeated by third ranked Vaqueros (12-7) 103-88 on Monday. The game without a history. Vaqueros led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 54.2 percentage. The best player for the winners was the former international guard Christian Dalmau (194-77, college: Daytona Beach CC, agency: Paris Global Sports) who had a double-double by scoring 38 points (!!!), 7 rebounds and 10 assists. American forward Terrence Shannon (203-79, college: Elgin CC, agency: Paris Global Sports) chipped in a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds. Four Vaqueros players scored in double figures. Vaqueros' coach Julio Toro allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the other side the best for losing team was international swingman Angel Daniel Vassallo (198-86, college: Virginia Tech) who recorded 34 points (!!!) and 5 assists and American center Shaun Pruitt (208-85, college: Illinois, agency: Edge Sports) added 18 points and 12 rebounds respectively. Vaqueros keep a position of league leader. Loser Mets dropped to the fourth place with nine games lost. Vaqueros will face league's second-placed Cangrejeros in Santurce in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Mets will play on the road against the league's second-placed Cangrejeros in Santurce and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guaynabo: A.Daniel Vassallo 34+4reb+5ast, S.Pruitt 18+12reb+1ast, S.Villegas 13+2reb, A.Luis Figueroa 8+6reb+3ast, J.Luis Rivera 7+1reb, C.Escalera 5+2reb+5ast
Bayamon: C.Dalmau 38+7reb+10ast, C.Antrone Lee 25+2reb, T.Shannon 19+10reb, R.Rickert 10+11reb+2ast, R.Jose Hatton 4+1reb+2ast, J.Mojica 4+4reb+3ast

San German - Santurce 88-91

Everything could happen in San German at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked Cangrejeros and one of their biggest challengers Atleticos had identical 11-8 record. But Atleticos were not able to use a home court advantage and were edged by the opponent from Santurce 91-88 on Monday night. It was a key game for the second position in the league. The guests trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 91-88. The best player for the winners was American forward Michael Sweetney (203-82, college: Georgetown) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 15 rebounds. Naturalized Ivorian guard Walter Hodge (183-86, college: Florida) chipped in 25 points. Four Cangrejeros players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international guard Jesse Pellot-Rosa (193-84, college: VCU) who recorded 28 points and 5 rebounds and forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) added 15 points, 14 rebounds and 5 blocks respectively. Cangrejeros have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Quebradillas. Loser Atleticos dropped to the fifth position with nine games lost. Cangrejeros will face Mets (#4) in Guaynabo in the next round.
Top scorers:
San German: J.Pellot-Rosa 28+5reb+1ast, M.Harris 15+14reb+1ast, J.Lloreda 12+12reb+2ast, R.Abraham 8+1ast, C.Strong 8+2reb, F.Rivera 6+5ast
Santurce: W.Hodge 25+1ast, M.Sweetney 17+15reb+3ast, R.Sanchez 12+5reb+5ast, R.Chaney 10+6reb+1ast, W.Pagan 9+3reb+3ast, R.Melendez 7+1reb+1ast

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

RUSSIA

PBL Round 2 of Quarter-Finals: The Lower-ranked teams shock the favorites - by Eurobasket News
The Lower-ranked teams shock the favorites as they won all four games. Again as in the first round, the hosts won all the clashes.

Krasnie Krilya - CSKA 92-81

The game was mostly controlled by Krasnie Krilya. CSKA Moscow was better in second period 20-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Krasnie Krilya dominated down low during the game scoring 42 of its points in the paint compared to CSKA Moscow's 20. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. American-Bosnian guard Ernest Bremer (195-80, college: St.Bonaventure, agency: Higher Vision Sports) notched a double-double by scoring 13 points and 15 assists to lead the effort and American guard Brion Rush (186-84, college: Grambling St., agency: Court Side) supported him with 20 points and 7 rebounds. Even 19 points and 5 rebounds by the former international guard J.R. Holden (185-76, college: Bucknell) did not help to save the game for CSKA Moscow. The former international swingman Viktor Khryapa (204-82) added 14 points for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. CSKA Moscow's coach tested eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game.
Top scorers:
Krasnie Krilya: B.Rush 20+7reb+1ast, K.Nesterov 18+3reb+1ast, P.Brezec 15+6reb+1ast, E.Bremer 13+2reb+15ast, F.Dmitriev 9+2reb, V.Zvarykin 7+6reb+5ast
CSKA: J.Holden 19+5reb+3ast, V.Khryapa 14+3reb+1ast, T.Langdon 13+1reb, R.Siskauskas 11+3reb+4ast, A.Vorontsevich 8+2reb+2ast, S.Kaun 7+7reb

Enisey - Lokomotiv 88-86

Lokomotiv was ahead by 1 point after three quarters before a 23-20 charge of Enisey Krasnoyarsk, which allowed them to win the game. They made 28-of-34 charity shots (82.4 percent) during the game. Lokomotiv was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. American center Lonny Baxter (204-79, college: Maryland, agency: Priority Sports) orchestrated the victory by scoring 21 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Pavel Sergeev (187-87, agency: RIZO) contributed with 20 points and 6 assists for the winners. Four Enisey Krasnoyarsk players scored in double figures. American guard Lionel Chalmers (184-80, college: Xavier) replied with 26 points and 4 assists and American-FYR Macedonian forward Jeremiah Massey (202-82, college: Kansas St.) added 22 points in the effort for Lokomotiv. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Enisey: L.Baxter 21+8reb, P.Sergeev 20+3reb+6ast, K.Pinkney 14+6reb+1ast, A.Komarovskiy 13+2reb+1ast, D.Labovic 7+4reb+1ast, D.Nikolaev 4+1ast
Lokomotiv: L.Chalmers 26+3reb+4ast, J.Massey 22+3reb+1ast, M.Wilkinson 14+6reb+1ast, S.Toporov 9+4reb, Y.Vasiliev 4+1reb, M.Grigoryev 4+2ast

N.Novgorod - Unics 88-82

The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Unics Kazan won third quarter 21-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for BC Nizhny Novgorod especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.4 percentage. 24 personal fouls committed by Unics Kazan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was forward Artem Yakovenko (206-88, agency: RU-Basket Management) who scored 19 points and 9 rebounds. The former international forward Semen Antonov (202-89, agency: RU-Basket Management) chipped in 14 points. Polish-Swedish center Maciej Lampe (210-85) produced 19 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Terrell Lyday (190-79, college: BYU) added 16 points respectively for the guests. Four Unics Kazan players scored in double figures. Unics Kazan's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
N.Novgorod: A.Yakovenko 19+9reb+3ast, N.Protic 14+1reb, S.Antonov 14+3reb, D.Golovin 9+1reb+1ast, A.Pustahvar 9+4reb, O.Baranov 7+3reb
Unics: M.Lampe 19+5reb, T.Lyday 16+4reb+2ast, M.Popovic 13+2reb+2ast, P.Samoylenko 12+2ast, R.Minard 9+4reb, V.Veremeenko 7+6reb+1ast

Spartak SP - Khimky 76-74

The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 41-38 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Spartak St.Petersburg made 28-of-36 free shots (77.8 percent) during the game. Serbian-Montenegrin forward Nikola Dragovic (206-87, college: UCLA) had a double-double by scoring 12 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Slovenian power forward Miha Zupan (205-82) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Spartak St.Petersburg's coach Zvi Sherf used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. Eritrean-Polish swingman Thomas Kelati (195-82, college: Washington St., agency: Beo Basket) responded with 19 points and international forward Sergey Monya (203-83) scored 10 points and 8 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Spartak SP: M.Zupan 16+5reb, H.Domercant 12+5reb+1ast, N.Dragovic 12+11reb+4ast, P.Popovic 10+3reb, A.Ponkrashov 8+3reb+7ast, A.Korchagin 5+1reb+3ast
Khimky: T.Kelati 19+3reb+2ast, K.Loncar 13+3reb, V.Fridzon 12+4reb, S.Monya 10+8reb+3ast, R.Lopez 9+1ast, Z.Planinic 8+6reb+2ast

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	17.5
4. Baxter, Enisey	16.5
5. Domercant, Spart.	16.3
6. Keyru, Dynamo	16.0
7. Williams, Enisey	15.3
8. Vyaltsev, Triumph	14.4
9. Labovic, Enisey	14.2
10. Chalmers, Lokom.	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Zhukanenko, Dynamo	7.4
2. Lampe, Unics	7.3
3. Baxter, Enisey	6.8
4. Beverley, Spart.	6.5
5. Monya, Khimky	6.4
6. Khryapa, CSKA	6.4
7. Brezec, Krasnie	6.1
8. Massey, Lokomotiv	6.1
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	6.5
3. Vyaltsev, Triumph	5.4
4. Ponkrashov, Spart.	4.7
5. Khvostov, Dynamo	4.1
6. Popovic, Unics	4.0
7. Planinic, Khimky	3.8
8. Samoylenko, Unics	3.3
9. Holden, CSKA	3.2
10. Chalmers, Lokom.	3.1

Steals Per Game

Patrick BEVERLEY
  Spart.
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 2

1. Beverley, Spart.	2.0
2. McKee, Triumph	1.9
3. Voronov, Dynamo	1.8
4. Bremer, Krasnie	1.6
5. Domercant, Spart.	1.4
6. Surovtsev, Lokom.	1.4
7. Labovic, Enisey	1.4
8. Lyday, Unics	1.4
9. Ponkrashov, Spart.	1.4
10. Massey, Lokomotiv	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Sasha KAUN
  CSKA
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.2

1. Kaun, CSKA	1.2
2. Yakovenko, N.Nov.	1.0
3. Monya, Khimky	0.9
4. Varlamov, Triumph	0.9
5. Zhukanenko, Dynamo	0.8
6. Khryapa, CSKA	0.8
7. Likhodey, Triumph	0.8
8. Zabelin, CSKA	0.8
9. Antonov, N.Novgor.	0.8
10. Lampe, Unics	0.7

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SERBIA

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game

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

1. Milisavljevi., Meg.	20.5
2. Janjusevic, Crnok.	18.8
3. Sinovec, Metalac	18.2
4. Micevic, Sloboda	17.6
5. Bozovic, Sloga	17.4
6. Nikolic, Crvena Z.	16.8
7. Bunic, Novi Sad	16.6
8. Nedovic, Crvena Z.	16.4
9. Kovacevic, Super.	16.3
10. Majkic, Prolet.	16.2

Rebounds Per Game

Sava LESIC
  Crvena Z.
  (205-C/F-88)
  Avg: 10.9

1. Lesic, Crvena Z.	10.9
2. Savovic, Hemofarm	8.9
3. Markovic, FMP	7.8
4. Ljubicic, Metalac	7.5
5. Nikolic, Crvena Z.	7.1
6. Lee, Radnicki	7.1
7. Cantekin, Mega V.	6.8
8. Cakarevic, Radnicki	6.7
9. Bozovic, Hemofarm	6.7
10. Majkic, Prolet.	6.6

Assists Per Game

Marko LJUBICIC
  Metalac
  (197-F-87)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Ljubicic, Metalac	6.4
2. Zarkovic, Prolet.	6.0
3. Pavkovic, Hemofarm	5.9
4. Vlahovic, Sloga	5.1
5. Radivojevic, FMP	5.0
6. Mitrovic, Beograd	4.9
7. Bakic, Crvena Z.	4.9
8. Milisavljevi., Meg.	4.8
9. Covic, FMP	4.7
10. Dundjerski, Beogr.	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	2.1
5. Mukanovic, Crnok.	2.0
6. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	2.0
7. Lee, Radnicki	1.9
8. Bakic, Crvena Z.	1.9
9. Jovic, Sloga	1.9
10. Kovacevic, Novi	1.9

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. Cakarevic, Radnicki	0.9
5. Cantekin, Mega V.	0.9
6. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	0.9
7. Djekic, Mega V.	0.8
8. Ljubojevic, Slobod.	0.8
9. Buric, Tamis	0.8
10. Lee, Radnicki	0.8

Petar Jokic will play for Mega Vizura - by Eurobasket News
Mega Vizura landed a talented forward. They signed contract with Petar Jokic (199-F-91, agency: 011 Sports). The deal is meant for two seasons. Last season Petar Jokic played for Novi Sad. He tallied 4.2 points, 1.3 boards per game.

A League Round 2 of Semi-Finals. FMP and Radnicki force deciders - by Eurobasket News
FMP - Partizan 84-75

FMP levelled semifinals series versus Partizan. The hosts trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 25-10 charge, which allowed them to win the game. 32 personal fouls committed by Partizan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Guard Andreja Milutinovic (199-90) scored 16 points to lead the charge for the winners and guard Filip Covic (180-89, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 18 points during the contest. Forward Rasko Katic (208-80, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 19 points and American forward James Gist (203-86) scored 9 points and 9 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
FMP: F.Covic 18+3ast, A.Milutinovic 16+3reb+2ast, V.Radivojevic 11+2reb+1ast, B.Bowman 8+6reb, I.Smiljanic 7+4reb+1ast, M.Ilic 7+3reb+3ast
Partizan: R.Katic 19+4reb, J.Vesely 14+6reb, C.Jerrells 12+1reb+3ast, J.Gist 9+9reb+3ast, V.Lucic 7+8reb, N.Jawai 4+4reb

Radnicki - Hemofarm 81-80

Radnicki narrowly defeated Hemofarm at home court. Steven Markovic knocked down two free throws late in regulation to seal the winning outcome for the hosts. Hemofarm was ahead by 6 points after three quarters before a 29-22 charge of Radnicki, which allowed them to win the game. They made 23-of-26 charity shots (88.5 percent) during the game. Radnicki forced 22 Hemofarm turnovers. Hemofarm was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Naturalized Australian guard Steven Markovic (190-85) notched 26 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals to lead the effort and American forward Michael Lee (207-86) supported him with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Even a double-double of 15 points and 15 rebounds by forward Boris Savovic (206-87) did not help to save the game for Hemofarm. Montenegrin guard Miljan Pavkovic (178-81, agency: Beo Basket) added 20 points and 8 assists for the guests. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Radnicki: S.Markovic 26+9reb+4ast, M.Lee 15+9reb+4ast, P.Miletic 13+2reb, M.Cakarevic 7+2reb+3ast, N.Sulovic 5+2reb, V.Aleksic 4+2ast
Hemofarm: M.Pavkovic 20+1reb+8ast, B.Savovic 15+15reb+1ast, B.Krstovic 14, I.Maras 8+5reb, M.Borisov 6+1reb, D.Andjusic 5+2reb

Macvan and Murati with great seasons abroad - by Eurobasket News
Milan Macvan won the trophy abroad as his Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv revenged for the loss last year and took the title back from Galil Gilboa. The latter became the winner of the Israeli Play-offs in 2009/2010 as they upset Maccabi T-A 90:77 in the Final Game. Trailing 8 points at the halftime, the winners were awesome in the second half and grabbed the Gold of the country. Tonight Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv dominated the arena and won 91:64. The favorites started with 24-13 and then added 23-22 in the second period. Moreover Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv won the third and the last quarters to triumph in the country. David Blu stepped up with 19 points, while Chuck Eidson netted 13. Milan Macvan ended up with 7 points and 6 rebounds. Courtney Fells replied with 25 points in the losing effort and Marco Killingsworth scored 11.
Murati Enis meanwhile finished second in Austria with his Allianz Swans Gmunden. Oberwart are new A Bundesliga champions. They held off Gmunden in the decisive fifth game of the title series. David Gonzalvez stepped up for the Gunners with 15 points and 7 rebounds.
Gmunden looked good early in the game. The hosts dominated every facet of the encounter in the starting period. Gmunden opened the game with a 17:2 rally. Oberwart cut the deficit but still trailed by 13 points at the first term 11:24. The Gunners tipped off the second quarter with a 9:2 rally to get closer. Gmunden restored a 13-point buffer late in the first half before Kelvin Parker made it 27:38 at halftime. Oberwart went on an 8:1 run to begin the second half. Joe Dean Shaw drew things level late in the third frame. Ian Boylan secured a narrow 54:53 advantage for Gmunden as the teams headed into the fourth term. The visitors netted five points in a row at the start of the final stanza to spur in front. The Gunners boosted the gap to 6 points with under four minutes to go. The visiting team were up by six with just 71 seconds to go. Ian Boylan and Deteri Mayes dragged the home team within two points but Kelvin Parker nailed four consecutive free throws to seal the victory and championship title for Oberwart. He finished with 13 points, while Joe Dean Shaw added 11 points for the winners. Ian Boylan answered with 28 points for Gmunden. Deteri Mayes had 20 points in the loss. Murati Enis averaged 7.6 points per game in 2010/2011 season.

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SLOVENIA

Telemach League Round 2 of Semi-Finals. Krka and Union Olimpija reach Finals - by Eurobasket News
Zlatorog - Krka 52-68

Krka advanced into Telemach League Finals. They swept the series against Zlatogor. The guests trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 36-16 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Krka dominated on the defensive end, holding Zlatorog to just 7 points in fourth quarter. They also forced 24 Zlatorog turnovers and had a 34-22 advantage in offensive rebounds. American power forward Christopher Booker (208-81, college: Purdue, agency: Lanshire Group) had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 14 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and power forward Smiljan Pavic (210-80) chipped in 10 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Power forward Luka Dimec (207-90) responded with 9 points and 8 rebounds and naturalized Bosnian forward Simo Atanackovic (206-90) scored 5 points and 9 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Zlatorog: L.Lapornik 11+3reb, V.Panic 9+2reb, L.Dimec 9+8reb, D.Vujasinovic 5+2reb+4ast, S.Bozovic 5+5reb, S.Atanackovic 5+9reb+1ast
Krka: C.Booker 15+14reb+1ast, S.Pavic 10+7reb+2ast, Z.Dragic 9+4reb+1ast, J.Balazic 9+5reb, G.Ikonic 7+1reb+3ast, D.Drobnjak 6+1reb

Helios - Union Olimpija 73-81

Union Olimpija sealed the spot in the Finals following the road win over Helios. The guests were already 14 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 20-14 Helios' run in the last quarter cut the lead to 81-73 at the end of the game. Union Olimpija made 17-of-18 charity shots (94.4 percent) during the game. They also forced 19 Helios turnovers. Georgian center Giorgi Shermadini (216-89) notched 13 points and 6 rebounds to lead the effort and the former international guard Saso Ozbolt (188-81, agency: World Sport Agency) supported him with 17 points (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Even 14 points and 6 rebounds by American swingman Benjamin Raymond (198-87, college: Xavier, agency: Impact Basketball) did not help to save the game for Helios. Swingman Vjekoslav Petrovic (193-81) added 13 points for the hosts. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest.
Top scorers:
Helios: B.Raymond 14+6reb+2ast, V.Petrovic 13+3reb+2ast, A.Korosec 10+2reb+2ast, A.Person 10+3reb+1ast, M.Lekic 7+3reb+2ast, G.Mali 6+3reb+2ast
Union Olimpija: S.Ozbolt 17+1reb+2ast, G.Shermadini 13+6reb+2ast, K.Gregory 12+3reb, V.Ilievski 10+2reb+7ast, S.Udrih 9+3ast, J.Klobucar 9+1reb+1ast

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game

Vladimir PANIC
  Zlatorog
  (194-F-82)
  Avg: 20.4

1. Panic, Zlatorog	20.4
2. Raymond, Helios	17.7
3. Simovic, Sentjur	17.4
4. Erzen, Parklji	16.9
5. Thondique, Polzela	16.3
6. Harmason, Sentjur	15.1
7. Djapa, Geoplin Slo.	14.7
8. Nuhanovic, Elektra	13.6
9. Krejic, Parklji	13.4
10. Zolotic, Maribor	12.9

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Thondique, Polzela	10.5
2. Simovic, Sentjur	8.9
3. Nuhanovic, Elektra	8.3
4. Raymond, Helios	7.4
5. Miljkovic, Elektra	7.0
6. Krusic, Geoplin	6.8
7. Zolotic, Maribor	6.5
8. Pavic, Krka	6.4
9. Mucic, Maribor	6.2
10. Erzen, Parklji	6.1

Assists Per Game

Igor MIJAJLOVIC
  Polzela
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 4.7

1. Mijajlovic, Polzela	4.7
2. Brolih, Maribor	4.4
3. Jersin, Elektra	4.1
4. Hohler, Sentjur	3.9
5. Djordjevic, Krka	3.8
6. Harmason, Sentjur	3.8
7. Krivec, Krka	3.6
8. Vujasinovic, Zlato.	3.6
9. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	3.5
10. Ilievski, Union O.	3.5

Steals Per Game

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

1. Thondique, Polzela	2.3
2. Ilievski, Union O.	2.0
3. Mezek, LTHcast	1.9
4. Dragic, Krka	1.8
5. Harmason, Sentjur	1.6
6. Ikonic, Krka	1.6
7. Mahkovic, LTHcas.	1.6
8. Lapornik, Zlatorog	1.6
9. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	1.5
10. Hohler, Sentjur	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra
  (209-C-82)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Nuhanovic, Elektra	1.8
2. Thondique, Polzela	1.2
3. Dimec, Zlatorog	1.0
4. Booker, Krka	0.9
5. Sviridov, Polzela	0.9
6. Shermadini, Union	0.8
7. Pavic, Krka	0.6
8. Sebic, Sentjur	0.6
9. Omic, Zlatorog	0.6
10. Mucic, Maribor	0.5

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

SPAIN

SWITZERLAND

Thibaut Petit leaves BBC Monthey - by Luca Maffioli
Thibaut Petit (agency: LBM Management ) is no longer the head coach of BBC Monthey. The 31 years-old coach decided to leaves the Swiss club of Monthey, finalist at Swiss Cup 2011, after two seasons. He moves to Arras Pays d'Artois Basket Feminin, 7th (13-13) in France LFB (women basketball) and finalist of EuroCup. Petit come back to women basketball after two years. He worked for Universite BC Neuchatel in Swiss and Dexia Namur and Spirou Pont-de-Loup Charleroi in Belgium.

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

TURKEY

Fenerbahce Ulker starts playoff semi finals with a 79-70 victory against Efes Pilsen - by Pervin Elgin
In the Beko Basketball League playoff semi-finals, Fenerbahce Ulker Basketball Team won series opener by defeating Efes Pilsen 79-70. Due to a Turkish League rule that gives a team a 1-0 start in a series if it swept its opponent in the regular season, Ulker now leads the best-of five series 2-0.

Roko Ukic and Kerem Gonlum started the first period with mutual baskets. A series of Efes was ended with Sarunas Lavrinovics basket, and the difference in scores melted quickly after contributions of the duo Marko Thomas and Oguz Savas. Fenerbahce Ulker finished the first period with18-19 behind.

In the beginning of the second period the duo Emir Preldzic and Omer Onan were highly effective on behalf of Ulker and took the score to 24-21 after 13 minutes. After Jasikeviciuss baskets brought the scoreboard to 28-24, the host team took a break, and the Efes duo Ender Arslan and Igor Rakocevic levelled the score. After that, Fenerbahce Ulker Basketball Team hardened its defense, and with Roko Ukic and Marko Tomas scoring their baskets they went to the locker room leading 37-35.

Ulker found the first scores of the second half with Darjus Lavrinovic's free throw. Sarunas Jasikevicius and Omer Onan made baskets from the outer line, but Efes Pilsen answered accordingly with contributions of Kerem Gonlum. Near the end of the third period, the scores were balanced again: 50-50. The last score of the period was for Ulker, when Sean May finished Omer Onans missed tourniquet, ending the third period with a 55-52 lead for Fenerbahce.

In the final episode, Oguz Savas and Kerem Gonlum found mutual baskets. After that, Omer Onan and Sarunas Jasikevicius scored a 7-0 series for Ulker, bringing the score to a 67-60 lead. After that, Ulker defended well against the strong offensive attacks from the guest team. After some mutual baskets Marko Tomass three point score increased Ulkers lead to seven points: 76-69, with 38 minutes on the clock. In the final minutes of the game, Fenerbahce Ulker Basketball Team kept control, increasing the lead to a final score of 79-70.

On Friday, May 27, Fenerbahce Ulker's Basketball Team will play the second semi-final match; a win will secure a place in the play off finals of the Beko Basketball League.

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

UNITED KINGDOM

Durham Wildcats Join British Basketball League For 2011-12 Season - by Paul Nilsen

The British Basketball League (BBL) are pleased to announce that the Durham Wildcats have joined their ranks ahead of the 2011/12 season.

The Wildcats senior men's team forms part of the Durham Wildcats Sporting Club which operates a number of men's and women's teams at both junior and senior level including an EB 1 Women's Basketball programme and a women's football programme with long term aspirations of playing in the recently formed SuperLeague.

Following two promotions in the last three seasons, this latest step to join the elite league caps a meteoric rise for the club since its formation back in 2005.

BBL Chairman Paul Blake said 'We are delighted to welcome the Durham Wildcats to the BBL. Their community ethos aligns perfectly to the BBL's own strategy, and they have all the key ingredients to build a successful BBL franchise'.

Quentin Sloper of the Wildcats added 'Sport in County Durham is built on successful partnerships and we are no different. Durham County Council, Durham University and the CSP have all played significant roles in getting the club this far. Our long term success will, without question, be partially determined by how successful we are in developing our existing partnerships and how we establish and grow new relationships with local and regional partners. We are determined to deliver a rounded product, from grass roots to performance level. A product that the County can be proud of and that people feel part of.

Durham County Council Leader, Simon Henig added 'This is tremendous news for Durham and a great vote of confidence for the club. I would like to congratulate everyone involved. We are committed to encouraging sport throughout the county and will be supporting the club as it continues to grow. We wish them every success in the forthcoming season and beyond.'

Raiders Re-Sign Colbert For 2011-12 - by Paul Nilsen
The UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders have given their summer a huge boost with the news that Lehmon Colbert (198-F-88, college: Jacksonville) Jr. has re-signed with the team for the 2011/12 season. It will be his second year as a Raiders player and follows a hugely successful first season as a professional.

The 6'7' forward was one of the first names on Coach Gavin's Love target list for the summer, and was keen to return to the city who gave him his first taste of professional basketball. Following some brief discussions with Colbert's agent, a deal was done relatively quickly, and the signed contract was received in the office on Wednesday.

Colbert was one of the top rookies in the BBL last year. He averaged 15 points and nearly 7 rebounds a game, while handing out just over 3 assists while stealing the ball over once a game. He shot a very impressive 60% from the floor and 32% from the three point line, demonstrating his versatility.

Raiders Coach Gavin Love was delighted to have secured Colbert's signature. 'To keep the nucleus of this team together is very important, so It's great to have Lehmon back with the team! He had a solid first year in the BBL and I'm expecting much more from him in his second professional season. He is back in the states working hard on improving his game and I know he is going to come in ready to play. Lehmon's versatility made it easy for me to sign him this early in the summer as he is able to play both small forward and power forward, so signing him leaves me many options at different positions on the floor.'

Colbert graduated from Jacksonville University in Florida in the summer of 2010. Love spoke to his coach after he had seen some video tape of him playing, and a deal was done quickly. His athleticism and versatility set him apart from other small forwards in the league last year and this will be something that Love looks to further exploit this coming season.

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VENEZUELA

On behalf of Venezuela's Latinbasket.com staff - Public apology for Greivis Vasquez - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- The Venezuelan section of Latinbasket.com would like to extend a public and sincere apology to Venezuelan PG Greivis Vasquez (198-G-87), his PR manager, fellow journalist Rene Rincon and the Memphis Grizzlies, his organization in the NBA, due to the content of a recent article published in our website that doesn't represent the ideology and/or the spirit in which this website is intended to function as a worldwide source for basketball related information.

Our main goal as a website ever since our creation in 1998 is to publish and share information, news, updated facts, stats and photos. Personal comments, thoughts and opinions have their natural place in properly signed and identified columns written by specialists.

Therefore, the thoughts and comments expressed in an articled titled: 'Greivis, you are naive', signed by Johnathan Leon, were not subject to control, correction or edition of any other members of this website and, what appears in the text, answers exclusively to the personal state of mind of its author. Using a public space such as the service we provide, to express discomfort or personal disagreement, is not the proper way to protest.

Latinbasket.com and its writers want nothing but to make public their profound respect for what Greivis Vasquez has achieved as a young and upcoming talent both in the NCAA and the NBA, making him a proud member of Venezuela's Senior National Team.

We are very sorry if we've caused any subsequent inconvenience to Vasquez, his organization, his PR manager, family and fans all over the world. Proper measures will be taken for it not to happen again.

Sincerely,

The Latinbasket.com Venezuela staff

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WBA

Standings

WBA Standings

1. Rome G.		2-0
2. Marietta S.		1-0
3. Upsate Heat		1-0
4. Gainesville K.		0-0
5. Gwinnett Majic		0-1
6. Tennessee T.		0-1
7. Conyers CK		0-2

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Women News

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BELIZE - Women

Belize U17 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

186-G/F

186-G/F

193-F/C

188-F

173-G

178-G

175-G

178-G

175-G

165-G

183-G/F

188-G

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BRAZIL - Women

Brazil women's National coach scouts U16 and U 16 team - by Mel Devonne
Enio Vecchi, the new Brasilian womens national team coach has been scouting the U16 and U17 teams
who play in various tournaments this summer.
According to fiba.com Vecchi stated that 'Its very important to follow the basic categories,' Vecchi said.
'I talked to the girls about the pride of representing Brazil and the importance of wearing the national shirt.'
Former national team superstar and WNBA star Janet Archian coaches the younger teams and the teams are
working out for the U17 FIBA womens championship which will be held in June.
The eight participating countries are Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, United States, Mexico and Venezuela.

Brazil women's National coach scouts U16 and U 17 teams - by Mel Devonne
Enio Vecchi , the new Brasilian womens national team coach has been scouting the U16 and U17 teams
who play in various tournaments this summer.
According to fiba.com Vecchi stated that 'Its very important to follow the basic categories,'.
'I talked to the girls about the pride of representing Brazil and the importance of wearing the national shirt.'
Former national team superstar and WNBA star Janet Archian coaches the younger teams and the teams are
working out for the U17 FIBA womens championship which will be held in June.
The eight participating countries are Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, United States, Mexico and Venezuela.

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GERMANY - Women

Osnabrueck has a new Head Coach - by Juliane Hoehne
Osnabrucker SC Panthers announced this week that the position for the new Head Coach has been filled. Peter Kortmann will transfer from SV Halle Lions to Osnabrucker SC Panthers. Kortmann's decision was based on the great conditions in Osnabrucker SC Panthers with gyms, youth work, and accommodation for players, while the management of Osnabrucker SC Panthers was looking for a Coach with experience in the first division and youth work. Kortmann has brought every year the SV Halle Lions in the play-offs, and has high expectations for his new team as well. With him transfers also Margaret Dwyer (185-G, college: Missouri St.) from SV SV Halle Lions to Osnabrucker SC Panthers. She added 12.8ppg and 4.9rpg in 31 minutes of playing time in her past season for the Lions, and was nominated to the extended squad of the national team this summer.

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JAPAN - Women

Alba Torrens leads Spain past Japan - by Eurobasket News
Spain - Japan 74:54

Spain celebrated the first win in the preparations for the upcoming EuroBasket. They held off Japan in the test game in Avila. Alba Torrens (184-F-89) stepped up for Spain with 16 points in the victory.
Spain got to a brisk start. They scored 24 points in the opening frame to take a 5-point lead into the first break. But the Asian powerhouse struck back in the second quarter. They narrowed the deficit and trailed by just one point 35:36 at halftime. Spain however took over completely in the third term. The hosts outscored the visitors 20:6 to boost the margin to solid 15 points. Japan accounted for only 13 points in the final term allowing Spain to breeze to the victory. Anna Montanana (186-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: George Washington) delivered 13 points and 6 rebounds for Spain. Lucila Pascua (196-C-83) had 10 points in the win. Kumiko Oba replied with 14 points for Japan. Kudeken Emi (165-G-84) and Arisa Fujiwara (87) provided 7 points each in the loss.

Spain: Alba Torrens 16, Anna Montanana 13, Lucila Pascua 10
Japan: Kumiko Oba 14, Kudeken Emi 7, Arisa Fujiwara 7

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POLAND - Women

Wisla re-signed Leciejewska, add Czarnecka and release Vucurovic - by Grzegorz Ozog
Wisla Can Pack extended the contract with Magdalena Leciejewska (191-C-86). 25-years-old forward at the end of last season has suffered injury, she join the team in the second part of season 2011/12.

New player of Polish Champion is Joanna Czarnecka (192-C-82) who spent last two season in Super-Pol. She played in 30 games averaging 8.1 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 assists. In the past (2004/05) she had been played in Wisla Can-Pack.

In addition, Wisla Can-Pack slowed Serbian player - Maja Vucurovic (188-F-91) who didnt meet the expectations of the club. For two years in 29 games she averages 1.1 points, 0.6 rebounds and 0.2 assists.

Current roster: Ana Dabovic, Paulina Pawlak, Anke De Mondt, Nicole Powell, Katarzyna Krel, Ewelina Kobryn, Magdalena Leciejewska, Erin Phillips, Agnieszka Sniezek, Milka Bjelica, Joanna Czarnecka, Petra Ujhelyi.

Lotos Gdynia add Natali Ploubi - by Grzegorz Ozog
The 30-year-old guard Natali Ploubi (169-G-81) will continue her career in Lotos Gdynia. Previous seasons she spent in DAS Ano Liosa. She tallied 9.4 points and 3.4 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. Natali Ploubi will be responsible for creating the play.

In the past she played, for example in SONY Athinaikos.

This season the team will be completely rebuilt. Last year Lotos Gdynia finished the season in Polish League on the 4th place but it will receive a 'wild card' to play in Euroleague.

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PORTUGAL - Women

Portugal hand Switzerland second straight loss - by Eurobasket News
Portugal - Switzerland 73:61

Portugal played the second exhibition game against Switzerland in Alges. The hosts celebrated the second consecutive win this time by margin of 12 points. Joana Lopes (185-F-86) topscored for the hosts again with 14 points.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening frame. Portugal ensured a narrow 20:19 lead after ten minutes. The home team cleared off in the second frame. They limited the Swiss team to 7 points to increase their lead to 14 points at halftime 40:26. Switzerland improved their performance in the third quarter. They narrowed the gap to 12 points but could not get further. Portugal picked up the slack in the final term and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Ana Oliviera provided 11 points in the win. Tamara Milovac (186-C-86) finished with 8 points for Portugal. Karen Twehues (182-G-83, college: Cincinnati) answered with 16 points for Switzerland. Sarah Kershaw (180-F/C-85) had 11 points in the loss.

Portugal: Joana Lopes 14, Ana Oliveira (176-F-83, college: UTSA) 11, Tamara Milovac 8
Switzerland: Karen Twehues 16, Sarah Kershaw 11

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SPAIN - Women

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SWITZERLAND - Women

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WNBA - Women

Sun clobbered by Silver Stars in preseason game - by Eurobasket News
Mohegan - Okay, Wednesday's Connecticut Sun game was only an exhibition.

That was one of the few positives for Connecticut.

The Sun were outplayed every way imaginable and got clobbered by the San Antonio Silver Stars, 80-56, at Mohegan Sun Arena.

Connecticut has its fair share of question marks headed into this season after missing the playoffs the last two years.

Wednesday did nothing to inspire confidence.

'It's a reminder of the way things went last year,' Sun Asjha Jones said. 'All those small things, which is how you lose games. All the games we lost on the road are because of the small things, kind of like tonight.'

It was bad enough that the Sun missed 46 of 65 shots from the floor.

A bigger concern was how Connecticut made many of the same mistakes that it made during last year's 17-17 season.

The Sun had 19 turnovers, 12 in the first half alone.

San Antonio converted Connecticut's mistakes into 19 points.

The Sun's defense was lacking, too. They trailed 16-12 early in the second quarter when the Silver Stars got three straight good looks for three straight 3-pointers.

'Where would you like me to start?,' Sun coach Mike Thibault asked at the start of his postgame press conference.

Tan White (15 points, two steals) was one of the few bright spots for Connecticut. Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) added 12 points and 17 rebounds.

White, though, had four turnovers.

Starting point guard Renee Montgomery had five turnovers compared with two assists.

The Sun missed a number of easy shots or layups, too.

'It's disappointing,' Kara Lawson (5'8''-G-81, college: Tennessee) said. 'They were the aggressors on both ends of the floor, really trying to attack in transition. We turned the basketball over, which didn't help our cause.'

Becky Hammon (5'6''-G-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) (10 points, six assists and four rebounds) was one of four San Antonio players to score in double figures.

Patience has been a big theme from Connecticut. It overhauled the roster last year and added youth (over half of the team is 24-or-younger). Rebuilding takes time.

One of the Sun's biggest questions, then, is how much longer it will take for them to reach their potential.

A bigger question is what is their potential?

'It's a process,' Lawson said. 'I think we need to keep that in mind. We have to play better without question.

'You can look at the NBA and see it's a process. Miami is the perfect example. They didn't light the world on fire at the start of the year, but they eventually got it together.

Connecticut waived rookies Rachele Fitz, Adrienne Johnson and Tahnee Robinson Wednesday. It has 12 players and must make one more cut before the season starts next Saturday.
By Ned Griffen
Courtesy of: www.theday.com

Connecticut Sun waives three players - by Eurobasket News
Mohegan, Conn. The Connecticut Sun announced today that Tahnee Robinson (5'9''-G-88, college: Nevada), Adrienne Johnson (6'0''-F-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Louisiana Tech) and Rachele Fitz (6'0''-F-87, college: Marist) have been waived.

The Sun now have 12 players on their roster. The team must be down to 11 players by June 2nd at 2 p.m.

Johnson was selected 28th overall by the Sun in the third round of the 2011 WNBA Draft out of Louisiana Tech, where she averaged 15.4 points per game, finishing fifth in program history with 1,965 points. She had three points and two rebounds in six minutes against the Chinese National Team on May 19th.

In the case of Adrienne, who was one of our draft picks, she needs more experience playing on the wing, Sun head coach Mike Thibault said. Hopefully overseas she can get some of that. She played mostly in the post in college and she needs to work on that.

Robinson was selected out of Nevada by the Phoenix Mercury with the 31st pick in the 2011 WNBA Draft, before she was dealt to the Sun for a third-round pick in 2012. She averaged 19.5 points per game for the Wolf Pack. She played eight minutes for the Sun against China, scoring five points.

Tahnee just hadnt been able to beat out the people in front of her, Thibault said. The players at our guard position are pretty solid veterans and there really isnt a roster spot for her at this point. She has some work to do in a couple of areas of her game and hopefully she can go overseas also and work on them.

Fitz was signed to a free agent training camp contract in April. The all-time leading scorer in Marist College, where she finished with 2,447 career points and 1,066 rebounds, Fitz scored five points in eight minutes against China.

Rachele was obviously a very good college player, but she is an undersized post player, Said Thibault. With Tina (Charles), DeMya (Walker), Asjha (Jones) and Kelsey (Griffin), we are pretty solid at that spot right now.
Courtesy of: norwichbulletin.com

With stars sitting this one out, Storm loses exhibition game to Los Angeles - by Eurobasket News
CARSON, Calif. For the Storm, having one last exhibition game is a simultaneous blessing and curse.

At the very least yet at the very most the Storm will have one more chance to correct the mistakes from Wednesday's 71-66 exhibition loss to the Los Angeles Sparks in front of 3,212 fans at Cal State Dominguez Hills.

'We've only had one day when everybody's been on the court,' Storm coach Brian Agler said. 'That was the Tuesday of the first week of practice. Other than that, people have had family issues and we've held a couple of people out early.

'At this point in training camp, I don't think we're very good. In some areas, we got exposed.'

The Storm played without Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81), Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) and Katie Smith, who sat on the bench the entire game. Smith wore a plastic knee-high rehabilitation boot on her left foot.

Agler said before the game that he would rest Bird and Smith. Bird has back spasms and Smith has Achilles tendinitis, Agler said.

Jackson, whom Agler said would start, was replaced by Ashley Robinson (6'4''-C-82, college: Tennessee) at center in the lineup at the last minute.

'This has really been the first day that Lauren's been out,' Agler said. 'She's been practicing pretty well. Sue practiced pretty well the for first two or three days, then (her back) started getting tighter.'

So what would have happened had all three played?

'Probably the same outcome,' Agler said.

Los Angeles used its defense to take early control and ignite its transition game. The Sparks forced 14 turnovers in the first half, used them to score 13 points and kept the Storm from establishing any presence inside.

As a result, the Storm missed 19 of 27 shots from the floor in the first half.

The Sparks made 15 of their first 32 and built a 43-25 lead one minute into the second half.

'I thought L.A. was physically tougher and mentally tougher than we were,' Agler said. 'In the first half, it looked like our transition defense was not very good and our one-on-one defense was not very good.'

The Sparks went to the free-throw line 27 times in the game compared to the Storm's 14 trips. The difference reinforced Agler's analysis.

'That tells me we're not finishing strong at the rim and our defense (is) fouling too much,' Agler said. 'I just don't think we had that edge that we needed to have.'

Nevertheless, the Storm rallied to move ahead, 64-63, on Tanisha Wright's fadeaway jumper with 3:20 to play. But the Storm scored only two more points, on free throws.

'There's a certain way that we have to play, a certain expectation,' Agler said. 'I don't think we came close to meeting that expectation.'

Le'coe Willingham led the Storm with 14 points. Belinda Snell (5'11''-F-81) had 12 points off the bench before twisting her left ankle with 3:40 remaining. Camille Little scored 10. The Sparks' Candace Parker led all scorers with 17 points.

Agler said he plans to take a different approach in the Storm's final exhibition at KeyArena against Tulsa on Sunday, before the defending WNBA champions begin their 12th season June 4 at home against Phoenix.

'I would expect we'd play everybody but we're getting too close to the season, now,' Agler said. 'We have to try in some way to get ready for our opening day.'

Sparks 71, Storm 66

SEATTLE (66) Willingham 5-10 2-2 14, Little 4-7 1-2 10, Robinson 1-2 1-1 3, Cash 3-9 2-2 8, Wright 4-13 0-0 9, Snell 4-8 1-1 12, Zoll 1-3 0-0 2, Ibekwe 1-7 2-4 4, Thomas 0-0 0-0 0, Monroe 1-3 2-2 4. Totals 24-62 11-14 66.

LOS ANGELES (71) Quinn 1-3 2-2 4, Parker 4-5 8-8 17, Milton-Jones 4-8 0-0 8, Toliver 3-10 0-0 7, Penicheiro 2-2 0-0 5, Lavender 4-7 0-0 8, O'Hea 0-3 0-0 0, Hoffman 2-7 5-6 9, Lacy 2-8 5-9 9, Pringle 2-2 0-0 4, Paris 0-2 0-2 0, Wisdom-Hylton 0-2 0-0 0. Totals 24-59 20-27 71.

Halftime Los Angeles 41-25. Rebounds Seattle 19 (Cash 6), Los Angeles 34 (O'Hea, Lacy 6). Fouled out None. Assists Seattle 14 (Wright 7), Los Angeles 12 (Penicheiro 4). Total fouls Seattle 23, Los Angeles 19. A 3,212 (Carson, Calif.).

By Joseph D'Hippolito
Courtesy of: seattletimes.nwsource.com