Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/28/2011

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Men News

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ARGENTINA

Regatas Corrientes hire Nicolas Casalanguida - by Eurobasket News
Regatas Corrientes have appointed Nicolas Casalanguida as their new head coach. The 32-year-old specialist worked with Gimnasia Rivadavia over the last three seasons. He also was assistant coach with the Argentinean National Team in 2009/10 seasons. Latinbasket.com named Nicolas Casalanguida All-Argentinean LigaA Coach of the Year in 2009.

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AUSTRALIA

Hawks and Wolves looking to strike Lightning (Round 11 MSBL Preview) - by Eurobasket News
Top side Lakeside Lightning face their toughest test of the men's State Basketball League season as they face fellow top four sides Total Connections Perry Lakes Hawks and Wanneroo Wolves in round 11.

The Lightning are barely ahead of second-placed side Cockburn Cougars and will have to beat Perry Lakes on Friday and Wanneroo on Saturday to ensure they remain in top spot at the end of the round.

And the Wolves, who are level with Lakeside on 11 wins, have won their last four games and will be confident of handing the Lightning their third loss of the season.

Perry Lakes will be looking to bounce back from an upset loss to Australian Central East Perth Eagles last week with victory against Lakeside.

The Hawks, who had won five straight before losing to the Hawks, also face a Rockingham Flames side desperate to get back into form.

Rockingham has slumped to 12th spot with defeats in eight of its last nine games and need to improve quickly to get back into finals contention.

ATD Stirling Senators will be looking to consolidate their top eight spot with victories against Rockingham and Southwest Slammers.

The Senators will be heavy favourites against both the Flames and the Slammers, who have lost all 14 games this season.

Defending champions Southlands Boulevarde Willetton Tigers are back into top four contention after victories in four of their last five matches, but face a tough test against SKILLED Goldfields Giants.

Giants import Matthew Rosinksi has averaged 40.5 points per game from his last two outings and the Tigers will have to stop him to become just the second side to win in Kalgoorlie this year.

Sun City Plumbing Geraldton Buccaneers have lost their last five and need to beat Mandurah Magic to maintain realistic hopes of making the finals.

Perth Redbacks could slip out of the top eight unless they end their disappointing run and defeat the Cougars, who have won four of their last five.

And East Perth will be hoping to boost their finals hope with victory over fellow top eight contenders Kalamunda Eastern Suns, who will be looking to end their two-game losing streak.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL

Big V: Round 10 preview - by Eurobasket News
Ringwood vs. Eltham Sat 28/5 8.15pm @ Maroondah Indoor
Wed suggest you bring an umbrella, and emergency flashlights to Maroondah on Saturday night because
both squads will definitely be making it rain and shooting the lights out simultaneously when they clash in
this absolute crackerjack match. Oh man the story lines are everywhere you turn. Without McMillan, are
the Hawks any good? Will Gerard Leonard (G) get enough shots? Corletto vs. Greer & Tragardh. How many
threes will Hill drill?
There will be plenty going on between these two red hots squads all night long. Eltham havent looked
like losing in quite some time and are working well together while the Hawks have just as many wins in a
row and have looked fine despite the absence of Luke McMillan (200-F-80). Everyone should get down to this one
with a ton of star power on offer. A loss could see the Hawks fall out of the top four again while a W could
slide them up to second.
Sherbrooke vs. Waverley Sat 28/5 8.00pm @ Belgrave Heights Christian School
The Suns are a very formidable at the moment with everyone contributing and working hard for a single
goal. They now face one of the biggest tests across the Big V when the Falcons travel up the mountain for
a showdown.
What will be interesting to see is how Dillon fits in with the offense. 12 points from his first two contests
leaves plenty of room for improvement with his talent unquestionable. Looking at the Falcons roster, the
Suns are going to have to be on their game defensively if they are to slow down the scoring power of
Waverley.
Hume City vs. Bulleen Sat 28/5 8.00pm @ Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium
Lets face it, last week the Broncos were embarrassed by the Wildcats, down 17-3 in the first before
losing by 50 as Eltham unloaded their bench for the majority of the contest.
It was only a year ago that Hume City were a finals team, fast forward to the current day and the Broncos
are in serious danger of being out of contention, as we reach the halfway mark of the season. Now they
have an opportunity to get one back when they take on the Boomers who slipped out of the top four
themselves for the first time in 2K11. The Broncos will need to take this game if they are attempting to
leap-frog Bulleen down the track and contend. This needs to happen sooner rather than later though,
with the clock winding down.
Diamond Valley vs. Melbourne Sat 28/5 8.00pm @ Diamond Valley Sport & Fitness
In a battle of the two most struggling teams in State Champ Men this season, the Tigers will take on the
Eagles in a bottom of the table clash. With just 4 wins between them, these two have been left behind as
the overall standard of Champ Men has jumped up a notch. Realistically, finals is probably out of the
question for both despite it only being round 10, so pride is on the line with these two most likely fighting
it out for the wooden cutlery by seasons end.
Courtesy of: bigv.com.au

Standings - SBL

SBL Standings

1. Lakeside L.		12-2
2. Cockburn C.		11-3
3. Wanneroo W.		11-4
4. Perry Lakes H.		9-6
5. Goldfield G.		8-5
6. Willetton T.		8-6
7. Stirling S.		7-7
8. Perth R.		6-7
9. Kalamunda E.S.		6-8
10. East Perth E.		5-8
11. Mandurah M.		5-8
12. Rockingham F.		5-10
13. Geraldton B.		4-9
14. AIS		0-0
15. SW Slammers		0-14

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BELARUS

Artsiom Parakhouski enjoy the title in Latvia - by Eurobasket News
Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) enjoy the title in Latvia as his VEF Riga are new LBL champions! They toppled Ventspils in the decisive seventh game of the thrilling championship series. Bojan Bakic stepped up for VEF Riga scoring 28 points tonight.
Ventspils looked better in the starting quarter. They outscored VEF Riga to take a 22:18 lead after ten minutes. But the visitors bounced back in the second frame. They limited the hosts to 13 points and pulled ahead 35:34. VEF Riga managed to maintain the lead in the third frame. They recorded a narrow 58:56 advantage with ten minutes remaining. VEF Riga erupted for 29 points in the final stanza and did not allow Ventspils to get to the rescue. Sandis Valters knocked down 19 points for VEF Riga. Kaspars Berzins added 12 points and 8 rebounds in the win, while Artsiom Parakhouski had 6. Oritseweyinmi Efejuku answered with 21 points for Ventspils. Akselis Vairogs provided 12 points in the loss.
This season Artsiom Parakhouski averaged 10.3 points per game in Latvian League.

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BELGIUM

Liege Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Liege Basket announced the addition of 2 new players for the 2011-2012 season. Ioannis Iarochevitch (207-C/F-89) returns to Liege after having played for the Junior team of Dymano Moscow, Verviers-Pepinster and Charleroi. This past season he was on the roster of both Spirou Charleroi and Essor Charleroi their D2 affiliate.
Second signee Dominic Waters (185-G-86, college: Portland St.) also played in Belgium this past season for Verviers-Pepinster. He had a good season there averaging 15.0 ppg and 3.4 apg. This past season was his first in Europe after finishing his college career at Portland State with averages of 18.6 ppg and 4.7 apg.

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BELIZE

Two straight win for Belize in COCAB U-17 tournament!!! - by David Magana
It is the second day of competition in the COCABA U-17 tournament in Costa Rica and Belize continues to bulldoze its way over its opponents. This time, it was El Salvador that fell victim to our youths by a score of 77-66. Despite the win, Belize did not play a spectacular game. The boys had quite a few turnovers and were missing relatively easy layups during the first half. This was partly due to their excitement over their win the day before and could be seen in their play as they try to rush the game. In the second half, they had better control and paced their eagerness to score, decreasing the number of turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, the Belize U-17 team had El Salvador down by 20 points, but somehow lost its grip in the last two minutes of the game. El Salvador immediately took advantage of this and was able to close the gap by 10 points. Nonetheless, at the final whistle, team Belize moved to a 2-0 record, leading group B.

Brian White and Devin Daly had a monster night on the offense while Alejandro Baptist was big on the defense.

Belize loses to Mexico; advances to COCABA U-17 semi-finals!!!! - by David Magana
Belize went into yesterdays game with high morale; expectations were equally high with the two previous wins. No one imagined that this game would be one of the worst played in the tournament. Belize lost to Mexico, 59-57, because of the teams overall inefficiency at scoring, rookie turnovers and lack of concentration to execute in crucial moments.

Mexico took an early lead in the first quarter as Belize floundered on the court losing ground as they engaged in countless misses from the charity line and three point shots, a weakness which plagued them throughout the game. Our team ended the first half with a disappointing 7 point deficit (23-16). The game got more exciting in the second half as the team warmed up a little and, during the last two minutes of the third quarter, Belize finally took a lead. This lead would be volleyed from team to team until the last minute of the game. At the end of the last quarter, with only 7 seconds on the shot clock and the game tied at 57 apiece, Belize got a golden opportunity: two free-throws. Fans, holding their breaths in anticipation, gasped in dismay when both shots were missed. In overtime, this loss was felt more keenly as Belize failed to score a single point while Mexico, with one shot, ended the game with a two point lead.

A painful loss, yes, and at moments like these, it might be easy to make negative comments and criticize our youths, but we should remember that in truth, most of these boys are novices and few of the players have any international experience. We would like to take this opportunity to say that even though we lost to Mexico, we are still proud of our young warriors because we know that they could have won the game. Perhaps this experience is propitious and can be counted as a lesson well learnt. Games like this help us identify our weaknesses, giving us the opportunity to work on them and improve ourselves. Our youths need to strive not to lose focus and to work on their turn-overs and execution.

Our boys have natural talent and as these guys gain more experience and participate in more international play they are bound to become more confident in themselves and therefore be more relaxed in their game. It is definitely not the end of the world, we got knocked down and now need to get back on our feet for the next battle. The best part of the tournament is about to begin. Now is the time to show what we are made up of. Go team Belize, fight hard and win!!!

Belize was lead by Tariq Middleton with 23 pts, Akeem Waters who had a great afternoon with 10 pts, 7 rebs and Brian White with 10 pts and a block. For Mexico, Josue Catarino scored 16 pts, Raul Frutos and Miguel Ramirez 11 pts and Daniel Rodriguez 9 pts.

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BRAZIL

Stats Leaders - BNL

Points Per Game

Marcelinho MACHADO
  Flame.
  (199-F/G-75)
  Avg: 26.2

1. Marcelinho M., Fla.	26.2
2. Marquinhos V., Pin.	21.4
3. Murilo Becker S.Jo.	19.5
4. Guilherme Gi., BRB.	19.4
5. Shamell Stal., Pin.	19.0
6. Robert Day Unitri.	18.3
7. Bernard Robi., Pit.	18.1
8. Olivinha Rod., Pin.	17.3
9. Robby Collum Unitr.	17.0
10. Andre Luiz B., Ar.	17.0

Rebounds Per Game

Shilton DOS SANTOS
  Araldi.
  (198-F/C-82)
  Avg: 8.5

1. Shilton dos ., Ara.	8.5
2. Olivinha Rod., Pin.	8.5
3. Guilherme Gi., BRB.	7.7
4. Murilo Becker S.Jo.	7.5
5. Jefferson Ag., Ita.	7.5
6. Guilherme Te., Fla.	7.0
7. Luiz Felipe Pauli.	6.9
8. Hatila Passos Unit.	6.7
9. Bernard Robi., Pit.	6.5
10. Marcio Cipri., BR.	6.4

Assists Per Game

Fulvio DE ASSIS
  S.Jos.
  (187-G-81)
  Avg: 7

1. Fulvio de As., S.J.	7.0
2. Larry Taylor Itabo.	5.9
3. Valtinho Sil., Uni.	5.2
4. Facundo Suca., Pit.	4.7
5. Joel Munoz Vitoria	4.3
6. Fernando Pen., Viv.	4.3
7. Helinho Garc., Viv.	4.2
8. Renato Pinto S.Jos.	3.9
9. Eric Tatu Ro., Win.	3.8
10. Mark Borders Arar.	3.8

Steals Per Game

Antoine STOCKMAN
  Assis B.
  (186-G-81)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Antoine Stoc., Ass.	2.4
2. Betinho Nard., Pau.	2.0
3. Bernard Robi., Pit.	2.0
4. Raul Neto Pitago.	2.0
5. Larry Taylor Itabo.	1.9
6. Ricardo Gian., Ass.	1.7
7. Marcelinho M., Fla.	1.7
8. Thiago Perez Pitag.	1.6
9. Alexandre Ga., BRB.	1.5
10. Brett Winkel., Pi.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Adriano MACHADO
  Assis B.
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 1.4

1. Adriano Mach., Ass.	1.4
2. Leonardo Mor., Pin.	1.2
3. Daniel Caste., Win.	1.1
4. Guilherme Hu., Pit.	0.9
5. Murilo Becker S.Jo.	0.9
6. Jose Estevam., Uni.	0.9
7. Douglas Nunes Ita.	0.9
8. Chico Delben Arara.	0.8
9. Bruno Fiorot., Pin.	0.8
10. Luiz Felipe Pauli.	0.7

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CHILE

Standings - LIBSUR

LIBSUR Standings

North Group
1. AB Temuco		1-0
2. Victoria		1-0
3. CD Las Animas		1-0
4. CD Valdiva		0-0
5. CD Carahue		0-1
6. Lautaro		0-1
7. CD Imperial		0-1
South Group
1. AB Ancud		1-0
2. CD Castro		1-0
3. CD Puerto Varas		1-0
4. Aleman		1-0
5. CB Osorno		0-1
6. CD Puerto Montt		0-1
7. Espanol O.		0-1
8. U.Los Lagos		0-1

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CHINA

Return of the Giant - by Eurobasket
Arguably the most imposing force in China for the past 2 seasons has been 7-3 Peter John Ramos (222-C-85), who has been unstoppable inside and a tough assignment for any player, or team. In lieu of the looming NBA lockout, Peter has decided to return to China for the 2011-12 CBA season, ' I have decided to return to China, since the NBA may lockout this season'.

Still very young, having just turned 26 years old, the former 2nd round pick of the Washington Wizards, still can develop into a offensive force, as China gives him the option to work on his game, since he typically plays 35 plus minutes. Peter plays year round essentially as he plays in the domestic Puerto Rican league after China ends, in which he is the top big man in that league as well.

Despite rumors and speculation, looks like Peter will return to China, for a 3rd straight season, with an unidentified team.

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COSTA RICA

Liceo flops, President resigns - by Gianni Pascucci
Traditional powerhouse Liceo de Costa Rica is seriously disappointing in 2011 LBS, and the main reason are the financial straits. It seems that the team, after having loss some top players, considered to withdraw from the competition only one week after its start, and this caused the resignation of historcal team President Heiner Ugalde , who will concentrate on his duties in the Orgaanizing Committee of Juegos Centroamericanos 2013.
Guillermo Rodriguez accepted to replace Ugalde on temporary basis, and finally 'El Expreso' found some financial help in Banco de Costa Rica. This could allow the team, now coached by Yull Lee , to end this season and to strenghten the roster.

Barva won the Costa Rica Cup - by Gianni Pascucci
With a little of delay, we can inform that last month favourite team Ferreteria Brenes Barva won the 'Torneo de Copa Baloncesto 2011', defeating 61-57 Escazu at the Marco Granados Gymnasium in Goicoechea. The best performers of the Final Game were Rohel Wilson (197-F/C-89) with 16 pts and Isaac St.Rose (190-G/F-83, college: John Brown) with 14 pts in Barva, and Dario Fraile (195-F-80) with 12 pts in Escazu

Barva dominating the LBS, as usual - by Gianni Pascucci
In the last game of the 2011 edition of LBS, started on May 6, Ferreteria Brenes Barva prevailed on the road over Sanatura-Desamparados, 70-87. Thanks to this result, Barva goes to 4-0 in the record, keeping the top of the table, that is now as follows:

1. Ferreteria Brenes-Barva 4-0
2. USJ ARBA 3-0
3. Escazu 3-1
4. UISIL Perez Zeledon 2-2
5. Sanatura-Desamparados 1-3
6. Liceo de Costa Rica 1-3
7. U.Santa Paula-Goico 1-4
8 Cartago 1-4

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CYPRUS

Standings - Division A

Division A Final Stage Standings

1. APOEL		13-3
2. Keravnos		11-5
3. Apollon		10-6
4. Etha		10-6
5. Achilleas		8-8
6. AEL		6-10
7. AEK		5-11
8. Omonia		5-11
9. ENAD		4-12

Panagiotis Yiannaras is the new Head Coach of Keravnos Strovolou - by Chris Mammides
The Assistant Coach of Keravnos the last six years is promoted to Head Coach in Keravnos Strovolou. Panagiotis Yiannaras is officially the new Head Coach of Keravnos Strovolou. The Strovolos team after many years with Greek or Israeli Coaches will now continue under a local boy as a head Coach of the team. Giannaras knows very well the team as he has been with the Strovolos team more than eight years in total. He has been the assistant coach of quite many head coaches and he knows very well the management team plus the culture of the team in total.
Eurobasket.com wishes to the new Head Coach of Keravnos all the best.

Intercollege Etha lands Joshua Jackson - by Michael Aristidou

Intercollege Etha signed American guard Joshua Jackson (188-G-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Warner Pacific) for next season. The player was in Steaua Turabo last season where he had 12,6 points average along with 2,0 assist and 0,8 steals.

Intercollege Etha is looking forward to strength up as much as possible in order to have some more success for next season not only in the league but in European competitions also.

Jackson is the first add in Antonis Konstantinides roster for next season. In the team will remain for last year squad Lithuanian forward Valdas Dabkus (204-F-84) and Serbian center/forward Dejan Cup (202-F/C-83)

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CZECH REPUBLIC

BC Kolin Announces Major Change for 2011-12 Season - by Surujh Roopnarine
BC Kolin, who suffered a disappointing end to their 2010-11 season, failing to qualify for the A1 playoffs, have announced a major shakeup of their roster. The team and leading scorer Terry Smith (185-G-86, college: Mercyhurst) have agreed to part ways after two seasons together. This past season, Smith, a 25-year old guard out of NCAA2 Mercyhurst was the leading scorer in the NBL this past season at 17.4ppg. As the focal point of the offense the 6-1 Smith shot a very impressive 46.5% from the field including 39.0% from behind the arc. He just completed his third professional season, having previously played for NVV Lions Moenchengladbach of Germanys Regionaliga during his rookie 2008-09 season. Smith was voted an All-Star for his efforts this year after a 2009-10 season where he was third in the league in scoring at 16.7ppg.
To fill the void left by the departure of Smith, Kolin enlisted the services of veteran guard Rashaan Ames (184-G-78, college: Shaw) for the next season.
Ames, a veteran of the Czech Republic with experience playing for Kolin, Pardubice and Prostejov, spent the 2009-10 season in Hungary with PVSK Pannonpower Pecs. The soon-to-be 33 year old Ames appeared in 14 games and averaged 9.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 2.4 steals while shooting 38.5% from the field.
In 161 career games (between 2005-2009) in the Czech Republic, Ames holds averages of 17.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 2.9 steals while shooting 51.9% from the field and 32.0% from three.

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FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: LoKoKo package is almost ready - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Top League (Korisliiga) newcomer LoKoKo (Loimaa) has been very busy lately. American Head Coach Greg Gibson has built his new roster so effectly, that there is room basicly for only one more American player. The newest name is American F-C Ryan McDade (201-F-80, college: N.Arizona), who has signed a 1-year-contract and will return back to Finland 2011-12. McDade is familiar with this Scandinavian country already as he played on Tarmo (Porvoo) roster 2006-07 (13,7 ppg - 10,3 rpg) and on KTP (Kotka) roster 2009-10 (13,1 ppg - 12,2 rpg). McDade has played professionally also in Turkey, Holland, Sweden, Australia and last season in Spain. LoKoKo has re-signed also with the 'own men' Eero Aaltonen (194-G/F-90) and Jani Kivinen (185-G-86). There are now 7-8 signed players on LoKoKo roster.

KORISLIIGA: Heavy traffic at Kouvola - by Rauno Hurmalainen
When Kouvot (Kouvola) Head Coach Jyri Lehtonen is re-building the roster for the future, there is a pretty high traffic right now in the town. Some players are leaving and a few are coming and replacing the holes. The Player of The Year Ville Kaunisto (204-F-82) left for Honka (Espoo), Lauri Toivonen (200-G/F-91) left for KTP (Kotka) and Mikael Herbert (201-F-93) went back to Korihait (Uusikaupunki). Kwamena Brace (196-G/F-87) came from FoKoPo (Forssa) and the newest name will be Aleksi Akpaso, 18, 192 cm, who played on PuHu (Vantaa) A-boys last season. American G Josh Gonner (188-G-82, college: S.Carolina) will continue and Team Kouvot needs still two bigger American players to be signed.

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FRANCE

Frederic Sarre is the new coach of Limoges CSP - by Eurobasket News
Frederic Sarre is the new coach of Limoges CSP that unfortunately had to leave Pro A. The new coach will start with the team in Pro B next season.
As a Head Coach the French specialist started in 1999-2000 for Rueil (B). He stayed there until 2002 and then enjoyed two years in Pau-Orthez (ProA). In 2004-2005 joined Bourg en Bresse (ProA) and remained with the team for another two seasons. In May 2006 signed a 3-year contract with BCM Gravelines Dunkerque (ProA) and was released in Jan.'08. Last three seasons spent in Strasbourg IG (ProA), but left in Apr.'11.
His former Strasbourg meanwhile have finally decided on the name of their next head coach. They have agreed on terms of contract with Vincent Collet . The 47-year-old specialist will sign a two-year deal with the team in the upcoming days. He will be assisted by Pierre Tavano and Olivier Weissler. Strasbourg will hold an official press-conference with Vincent Collet on May 27.

JSF Nanterre keep Riley and Judith - by Eurobasket News
JSF Nanterre keep Mykal Riley (198-F-85, college: Alabama) and Marc Judith (192-G-87) for the next season. The team that just booked the spot in the semifinals already announced keeping the players for the upcoming year.
Mykal Riley joined the team in 2009-2010 and after 39 games averaged 12.9ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.6apg, Steals-2 (2.7spg), FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.1%. This season his stats read 13.7 points per game and 6.1 rebounds.
On May 24th when Nanterre booked the spot in the semifinals, Mykal Riley nailed 14 points. They prevailed against Le Portel at home court. It looked good early as Le Portel took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then JSF Nanterre had a 19-11 second period charge getting the lead and Le Portel was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 73-80.
Marc Judith joined JSF Nanterre in 2009-2010 and after 39 games had 4.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.3apg. This season he has 5.3 points per game. He recorded 17 points in the first Quarterfinal game against Le Portel when Nanterre rolled over them 88:55. JSF Nanterre forced 21 Le Portel turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Le Portel's players. JSF Nanterre brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

Rick HUGHES
  Hyeres-T.
  (204-C/F-73)
  Avg: 19.2

1. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	19.2
2. Jefferson, AS.	19.2
3. Nichols, Vichy	18.2
4. Mejia, Cholet	18.0
5. Darden, Nancy	17.2
6. Massie, Limoges	16.9
7. Mensah-Bonsu, AS.	16.5
8. Shuler, Vichy	16.0
9. Hamilton, Paris-.	15.6
10. Schilb, Chalon	14.8

Rebounds Per Game

Pops MENSAH-BONSU
  AS.
  (206-F-83)
  Avg: 9.3

1. Mensah-Bonsu, AS.	9.3
2. Massie, Limoges	9.2
3. Krupalija, Hyeres.	8.9
4. Akingbala, Nancy	8.1
5. Issa, Gravelines	7.8
6. Jefferson, AS.	7.8
7. Jones, Le Havre	7.7
8. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	7.7
9. Koffi, Le Mans	7.6
10. Sene, Gravelines	7.6

Assists Per Game

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

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

Steals Per Game

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

1. Linehan, Nancy	3.1
2. Walsh, AS.	2.1
3. Diot, Le Mans	2.1
4. Darden, Nancy	2.0
5. Dobbins, Hyeres-T.	2.0
6. Elegar, Vichy	1.8
7. Diabate, Roanne	1.8
8. Greer, Strasbourg	1.7
9. Sangare, Le Havre	1.7
10. Dewar, Le Mans	1.7

Blocks Per Game

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

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

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GEORGIA

Army triumphs in the country - by Eurobasket News
Army triumphs in the country winning the series 3-1 over TSU. The last game finished with 65:61 for Army that brought them gold medals.
Army won the opening period 15-12, but the hosts managed to take 1-point advantage at the halftime. Army later needed 20-17 in the third period and 18-16 in the last to seal the victory.
Earlier in April Superleague top team Army Sport Klub won the Regular Season. They won it with 18-2 record after they crushed seventh ranked Energy Invest (7-13) in Tbilisi 83-64. Army Sport Klub led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Energy Invest's 32.
With no foreigners in the team Army looked great in the whole season. The team rightfully clinched the title and celebrated the victory in the country.

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

GERMANY

Quentin Pryor (Phoenix Hagen) Alba Berlin Has To Take Advantage Of The Frankfurt Bigs - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Quentin Pryor (193-G/F-83, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Morehead St.) is a 27 year old 193cm shooting guard/small forward from Eupora, Mississippi and just completed his third season with Phoenix Hagen. He started his college basketball career at Jackson State, before finishing at Morehead State from 2005-2007. In his senior year, he played 30 games averaging11.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3Pts: 36.8%, FT: 71.7%. In 2007, he started his professional basketball career in Germany with FC Schalke 04 playing 29 games and averaging 15.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, Steals-1 (2.5spg), FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 75.2%. In 2008-2009 for Phoenix Hagen, he played 30 games averaging 14.7ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 75.2. in 2009-2010, he played 33 games: 8.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 72.9%. Last season, he played 33 games averaging 11,3ppg, 3,5rpg and 2,2apg. He spoke to eurobasket about the 2011 beko BBL semi final 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?

The top 4 teams are all very strong. All 4 have been at top of the standings all season.

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 very tough, physical series. I think it will go 4 games.

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

They have to play very good team oriented defense.

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

Artland has a few players are capable of stepping up for them.

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

This series will be full of offense. I think that Frankfurt will win it in 5 games.

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

I think they should just focus on stopping everyone else. He is going to get his points but they can limit everyone else.

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

They have to take advantage of their bigs inside.

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

Dunleavy is not the right fit for that team.

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

They need to see what they can get for the Big 3 because they are all past their prime. They need to rebuild.

Thanks Quentin for the chat

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

GREECE

Head Coach Vlaikidis in the Japanese league with Iwate Big Bulls - by Chris Mammides
The Greek Head Coach Vlasios Vlaikidis is officially the first Greek Head Coach to coach a Japanese team since he agreed financial terms with the Japanese basketball team Iwate Big Bulls The Greek Head Coach has an international career as three years ago he won the champion in FYROM with ABA Strumica while in the Japanese league will find a very well known to him, the Serbian head Coach of Panathinaikos Athens Zeljko Pavlicevic as he is coaching in the Japanese league the last three years with Shimane Susanoo Magic. Vlaikidis, has professional ties to current Shimane Susanoo Magic and former Japan national team coach Zeljko Pavlicevic, having served as an assistant coach under the highly regarded mentor for three seasons at Panathinaikos Athens in the early 1990s. In that time, Vlaikidis helped coach the squad to a Greek Cup title in 1993. Vlaikidis also worked as an assistant coach for Greek club Aris Thessaloniki.

It is worth mentioned that the Japanese Iwate Big Bulls is one of four newcoming team in the First division of Japan. The BJ-League is set to welcome the four new expansion teams on their first season of play. The other three teams are the following: Shinshu Brave Warriors, Chiba Jets, and Yokohama B-Corsairs are all set to take action.

Div.B Standing

B Standings

1. Nea Kifisia		24-5
2. OFI		22-6
3. Ermis Perama		21-7
4. Doxa Lefkadas		20-8
5. Anagennisi		19-10
6. MENT		17-12
7. Aias Evosmou		16-13
8. Stratoni		15-14
9. Doukas		13-15
10. Aiolos Trik.		13-16
11. Diagoras		13-16
12. Apollon KL		10-18
13. Egaleo		10-18
14. Filippos Veroias		7-22
15. M.Alexandros		5-24

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

IBL

Standings

IBL Standings

Continental Division
1. Vancouver V.		8-1
2. Bellingham S.		8-4
3. W.C. Hotshots		4-4
4. Olympia R.		3-5
5. L.Angeles L.		0-1
6. USA All-Stars		0-15
International Division
1. Albany L.		12-3
2. Kankakee S.		10-3
3. Gary Splash		6-6
4. Oregon W.		5-6
5. Edmonton E.		2-4
Branding Team
1. Lansing C.		2-3
2. Dayton A.		1-0
3. Phoenix R.		0-0
4. Las Vegas P.		0-1
5. Ohio H.G.		0-2
6. Lake Co.		0-3

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

INDONESIA

Cedric Ceballos et al. Challenge NBL Stars - by Koko Triloka
The names of ex-star team of the United States that incorporated in the USA Legends to deal with NBL stars have been announced. Team USA led by Cedric Ceballos Legends and Clifford Robinson.

As reported earlier, Legends USA team will challenge the joint team NBL star players in a match that took place in Hall A Senayan Jakarta (22 June) and DBL Arena Surabaya (25 June).

In a press release received detikSport on Thursday (26/05/2011) evening hrs Legends USA team will contain Cedric Ceballos, a former Los Angeles Lakers top scorer (All-Star 1995), Dale Ellis, the former Seattle SuperSonics star (All-Star 1989 ), and Clifford Robinson, a former mainstay of the Portland Trail Blazers (All-Star 1994).

Besides ever elected to the NBA All-Star, Ceballos also had to make a sensation when won the NBA Slam Dunk title in 1992. Dale Ellis had won the NBA championship Three-Point Shootout 1989. Before that, in 1987, Ellis won the NBA Most Improved Player. While Clifford Robinson in 1993 also won the Sixth Man of the Year.
Besides the three former All-Star on top, will also present Voshon Lenard, a former champion NBA Three-Point Shootout 2004 when defending the Denver Nuggets. Then there are two former Los Angeles Lakers player, Ike Nwankwo and Duane Cooper.

In addition to six former NBA players, the team USA Legends also strengthened Delevopment six players from the NBA League. USA Legends will come to Indonesia on June 20.

Meanwhile, Indonesia will contain the NBL team players from the club ten participants in the highest league ground water. Most are young players, supported by popular stars. So far, the names that have been confirmed by the organizers are Dennis Sumargo (Garuda Flexi), Dimaz Muharri (CLS Knights), Oki Wira Sanjaya (Aspac), as well as the award-winning 2010-2011 season as Diane Heryadi (top rebounds, Muba Hangtuah Indonesia Muda ) and Valentino Wuwungan (rookie of the year, Satya Wacana Angsapura).

The complete structure Indonesia NBL Selection Team will be announced in the near future. 'We continue to coordinate with national team players,' said director of PT Detection Basketball Cross (DBL) Indonesia NBL comissioner well as providers of these activities.

'The event was historic. For the first time, there is a team of six former NBA players, including three All-Star, play against the stars NBL Indonesia,' said David Chu, general manager of USA Legends.

'We are pleased to be working with PT DBL Indonesia, a highly professional organization in Indonesia. We believe that this event is the start of regular visits to Indonesia Legends USA team, 'he added.

In addition to coming to compete in the NBL Flexi Indonesia Challenge 2011, ranks the USA Legends also will attend the launch of the new season NBL Indonesia from 2011 to 2012, which is planned to begin in December.

NBA Player Legend Againts Indonesian NBL Stars - by Koko Triloka
Historic basketball event held back in Indonesia. For the first time, a collection of players the United States legend visited Indonesia, challenging the stars National Basketball League (NBL), Indonesia.
Legends Team USA will compete twice in the Champions Challenge Flexi NBL Indonesia 2011, Indonesia against NBL Selection Team, composed of players selected NBL Indonesia. The first match was held in Hall A Senayan Jakarta on 22 June, followed by a second game in DBL Arena Surabaya, 25 June.

A number of big name U.S. basketball team gathered at Legends USA. Some are former NBA All-Star, there is also a former NBA Slam Dunk champion and NBA Three-Point Shootout. Players that have also never won the Sixth Man of the Year and the Most Improved Player.
'So far, we have many times bring in players or NBA legends into Indonesia. But, just this time we managed to bring in a team containing former stars to play in Indonesia, 'said Azrul Ananda, director of PT Detection Basketball Cross (DBL) Indonesia and Indonesia as an organizer NBL Commissioner.

According to Azrul, it is long enough to prepare Flexi NBL Indonesia Challenge 2011. He asserted, is not easy to collect my ex-NBA star to come to Indonesia.
'The first one is always the hardest. There has never been like this event in Indonesia. After this, I am sure will be more easy to continue to bring in world basketball stars. I feel the coming USA Legends is a new breakthrough that will pave the way wider in the future, 'he explained. 'We are also grateful to Telkom Flexi. They enable the merger of this historic event, 'Azrul added.

M. Firdaus, deputy executive general manager of commerce Telkom Flexi, admitted glad it could be part of this historic event. 'Community of basketball in Indonesia is growing very rapidly. Supports the presence of basketball legends from the United States is a form of appreciation to all the fans of basketball Flexi in Indonesia. Events like this are very rare. We also hope this event can give an injection of spirit to all the basketball in Indonesia to continue to achieve accomplishments and develop this sport, 'he explained.
Azrul Ananda added, Flexi NBL Indonesia Challenge 2011 is the beginning of greater cooperation between the Flexi with PT DBL Indonesia as an organizer of NBL Indonesia. 'In the near future we have a bigger announcement,' he said.
Currently, PT DBL Indonesia is doing the final preparations to welcome the USA Legends. Including working with the clubs Indonesian NBL participants to form teams that will compete against the USA Legends. The names of Legends USA team members, as well as the names of team members NBL Indonesia will soon be announced in the near future. (*)

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

ITALY

Lega2 Round 1 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Fastweb CM - Barcellona 84-78

Fastweb Casale overcame Barcellona in the first game of the semifinal series. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Sigma Barcellona won third quarter 27-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Sigma Barcellona 39-25 including a 30-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. Sigma Barcellona was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard Donell Taylor (198-G-82, college: UAB) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 16 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and his fellow American import guard Ricky Hickman (190-85, college: NC-Greensboro) chipped in 19 points and 5 rebounds. Four Fastweb CM players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Jeremy Wise (191-86, college: S.Mississippi, agency: Strategic Sports) responded with 27 points and Panamanian guard Michael Hicks (193-76, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) scored 17 points. Sigma Barcellona's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Fastweb CM: R.Hickman 19+5reb+3ast, D.Taylor 16+11reb+4ast, M.Malaventura 13+1reb+1ast, T.Fantoni 10+10reb+1ast, S.Gentile 9+3reb+1ast, G.Ferrero 8+2reb+1ast
Barcellona: J.Wise 27+3reb+3ast, M.Hicks 17+2reb+1ast, R.Bucci 11+3reb, M.Mocavero 8+3reb, A.Ghiacci 5+3reb+1ast, M.Da Ros 4+2reb

Umana Reyer - Prima Veroli 68-67

Umana Reyer held off Prima Verol in the opener. The hosts trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 21-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Alvin Young (189-75, college: Niagara) who helped to win the game recording 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. His fellow American import forward Tamar Slay (204-80, college: Marshall) contributed with 10 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Four Umana Venezia players scored in double figures. Lithuanian center Antanas Kavaliauskas (208-84, college: Texas A&M) answered with 14 points and the former international power forward Ivan Gatto (207-78) added 7 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Prima Veroli. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Umana Reyer: A.Young 13+6reb+4ast, M.Allegretti 12+6reb, K.Clark 11+5reb+3ast, T.Slay 10+9reb, S.Bryan 6+4reb+1ast, G.Meini 6+1ast
Prima Veroli: A.Kavaliauskas 14+4reb+2ast, G.Rosselli 9+3reb+2ast, A.Iannone 8, J.Jackson 8+2reb, I.Gatto 7+8reb+1ast, J.Penn 6+3reb+5ast

Bologna name Alessandro Finelli new head coach - by Eurobasket News
Virtus Bologna have quickly found the new head coach. Just one day after announcing the departure of Lino Lardo (agency: Players Group ) the team announced the name of the new head coach. Alessandro Finelli is the man for the job. The 44-year-old specialist has last worked with Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia. He was hired in November 2010 but left the team next month. Earlier Alessandro Finelli worked in Livorno, Imola, Ferrara, Pavia, Montecatini, Montegranaro. The specialist also worked with Fortitudo Bologna in 2009/2010 season when the team played at A dilettanti league.

Stats Leaders - Lega2

Points Per Game

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

1. Whiting, Aget Imola	22.4
2. Robinson, Trenkwal.	19.7
3. Crispin, Barcellona	19.6
4. Gordon, Forli	19.5
5. Jackson, Prima Ver.	19.3
6. Ebi, Aget Imola	19.2
7. Goldwire, Forli	19.1
8. Clark, Umana Reyer	18.4
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. Whiting, Aget Imola	3.8
7. Marigney, Assigeco	3.8
8. Nardi, Forli	3.7
9. Farabello, N.Fer.	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

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

JAPAN

Asia-Basket.com All-Japanese BJ League Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

Asia-Basket.com All-Japanese BJ League 1st Team 2011

Parmer

Arnold

Parker

Washington

Hamilton

Player of the Year: Jeffrey Parmer (203-F-85) of Hamamatsu P.
Guard of the Year: Michael Parker (200-G/F-81) of Fukuoka Rizing
Forward of the Year: Jeffrey Parmer (203-F-85) of Hamamatsu P.
Center of the Year: Gary Hamilton (208-F/C-84) of Shiga Lakestars
Domestic Player of the Year: Takumi Ishizaki (188-G-84) of Shimane
Import Player of the Year: Jeffrey Parmer (203-F-85) of Hamamatsu P.
Defensive Player of the Year: Gary Hamilton (208-F/C-84) of Shiga Lakestars
Coach of the Year: Kazuo Nakamura of Hamamatsu P.

1st Team
G: Wayne Arnold (193-84) of Hamamatsu P.
G/F: Michael Parker (200-81) of Fukuoka Rizing
F: Lynn Washington (200-78) of Osaka Evessa
F: Jeffrey Parmer (203-85) of Hamamatsu P.
F/C: Gary Hamilton (208-84) of Shiga Lakestars

2nd Team
G: Wendell White (198-84) of Kyoto Hannaryz
G: Kenny Satterfield (188-81) of Osaka Evessa
G: Mac Hopson (188-87) of Sendai 89ers
F/C: Brandon Cole (203-84) of Miyazaki
C: Jeral Davis (216-84) of Shimane

Honorable Mention
Chris Holm (212-C/F-84) of Sendai 89ers
Byron Eaton (180-G-86) of Tokyo Apache
Robert Swift (213-F/C-85) of Tokyo Apache
Will Graves (198-F/G-88) of Akita
Sek Henry (193-G-87) of Akita
Nile Murry (193-G-83) of Fukuoka Rizing
Mikey Marshall (196-G-81) of Shiga Lakestars
Reginald Warren (204-F-81) of Kyoto Hannaryz
Takumi Ishizaki (188-G-84) of Shimane
Damian Johnson (201-F-87) of Oita H.Devils
Jackie Manuel (196-G/F-83) of Miyazaki
William Knight (196-F/G-79) of Osaka Evessa
Carlos Dixon (202-G/F-81) of Okinawa GK

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Taishiro Shimizu (183-81) of Miyazaki
G: Takumi Ishizaki (188-84) of Shimane
G: Tsubasa Yonamine (173-83) of Okinawa GK
G: Akitomo Takeno (173-85) of Fukuoka Rizing
G: Masashi Obuchi (182-83) of Osaka Evessa

All-Imports Team
G: Wayne Arnold (193-84) of Hamamatsu P.
G/F: Michael Parker (200-81) of Fukuoka Rizing
F: Lynn Washington (200-78) of Osaka Evessa
F: Jeffrey Parmer (203-85) of Hamamatsu P.
F/C: Gary Hamilton (208-84) of Shiga Lakestars

All-Defensive Team
Michael Parker (200-G/F-81) of Fukuoka Rizing
Kenny Satterfield (188-G-81) of Osaka Evessa
Damian Johnson (201-F-87) of Oita H.Devils
Jeral Davis (216-C-84) of Shimane
Gary Hamilton (208-F/C-84) of Shiga Lakestars

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LATVIA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

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

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

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Mednis, Turiba	7.9
2. Berzins, VEF R.	7.5
3. Rozitis, Zemgale	7.5
4. Cain, VEF Riga	7.3
5. Berzins, VEF Riga	7.3
6. Aleksejevs, Liepaja	6.7
7. Hunter, Ventspils	6.6
8. Selakovs, VEF R.	6.3
9. Cavars, Barons	6.1
10. Veselovs, Valmiera	6.0

Assists Per Game

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

1. Bertans, VEF R.	4.7
2. Gabrans, Valmiera	4.5
3. Willjam, Barons	4.2
4. Mitchell, Liepaja	3.9
5. Bergmanis, Zemgale	3.7
6. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	3.7
7. Gailitis, VEF R.	3.5
8. Bertans, VEF Riga	3.3
9. Piternieks, LU	3.2
10. Carter, Ventspils	3.1

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

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

VEF Riga clinch LBL title - by Eurobasket News
Ventspils - VFF Riga 82:87

VEF Riga are new LBL champions! They toppled Ventspils in the decisive seventh game of the thrilling championship series. Bojan Bakic (197-G-83, agency: Alti Sport) stepped up for VEF Riga scoring 28 points tonight.
Ventspils looked better in the starting quarter. They outscored VEF Riga to take a 22:18 lead after ten minutes. But the visitors bounced back in the second frame. They limited the hosts to 13 points and pulled ahead 35:34. VEF Riga managed to maintain the lead in the third frame. They recorded a narrow 58:56 advantage with ten minutes remaining. VEF Riga erupted for 29 points in the final stanza and did not allow Ventspils to get to the rescue. Sandis Valters (193-G/F-78) knocked down 19 points for VEF Riga. Kaspars Berzins (213-F/C-85) added 12 points and 8 rebounds in the win. Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-G-86, college: Providence) answered with 21 points for Ventspils. Akselis Vairogs (195-F-85, agency: Players Group) provided 12 points in the loss.

Ventspils: Oritseweyinmi Efejuku 21, Akselis Vairogs 12
VEF Riga: Bojan Bakic 28, Sandis Valters 19, Kaspars Berzins 12

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

MONTENEGRO

Danilo Nikolic signs with Buducnost - by Eurobasket News
Buducnost signed a deal with a young talented player. They have agreed on terms of contract with Danilo Nikolic (94). The centre spent the previous season in Gorstak Kolasin. He tallied 14.8 points, 7.5 boards and 1.0 block per appearance. Danilo Nikolic is the member of Montenegrin U18 selection.

Bojan Bakic leads VEF Riga to the title - by Eurobasket News
Montenegrin Bojan Bakic (197-G-83, agency: Alti Sport) leads VEF Riga to the title in Latvia! They toppled Ventspils in the decisive seventh game of the thrilling championship series. Bojan Bakic stepped up for VEF Riga scoring 28 points tonight.
Ventspils looked better in the starting quarter. They outscored VEF Riga to take a 22:18 lead after ten minutes. But the visitors bounced back in the second frame. They limited the hosts to 13 points and pulled ahead 35:34. VEF Riga managed to maintain the lead in the third frame. They recorded a narrow 58:56 advantage with ten minutes remaining. VEF Riga erupted for 29 points in the final stanza and did not allow Ventspils to get to the rescue. Sandis Valters knocked down 19 points for VEF Riga. Kaspars Berzins added 12 points and 8 rebounds in the win. Oritseweyinmi Efejuku answered with 21 points for Ventspils. Akselis Vairogs provided 12 points in the loss. This season Bojan Bakic averaged 9.9 points per game in Latvian League, but had 16.4 for VEF Riga jrs.

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

NBA

Kevin McHale to coach Rockets - by Eurobasket News
The Houston Rockets have reached agreement on a contract for Kevin McHale to become their new coach, Yahoo! Sports is reporting.

ESPN The Magazine's Ric Bucher confirmed Friday that McHale had been offered the job. The Associated Press reported the Rockets and McHale were still in negotiations, citing a source familiar with the situation.

After interviewing numerous coaches in their search to replace Rick Adelman, the Rockets narrowed their focus to McHale, who worked as an analyst for TNT this season, Boston Celtics assistant coach Lawrence Frank and Dallas Mavericks assistant Dwane Casey, according to sources.

McHale, formerly the Minnesota Timberwolves' general manager, was 39-55 in two stints as the Wolves' interim coach. He was 19-12 after taking over for Flip Saunders in the 2004-05 season and posted a 20-43 mark after replacing Randy Wittman for the final 63 games in the 2008-09 season.

McHale's time as an executive in Minnesota was highlighted by drafting Kevin Garnett out of high school in 1995. Other moves and draft decisions didn't go over as well with fans and he began to draw criticism.

Houston has missed the playoffs the last two years as it dealt with injuries that have limited All-Star center Yao Ming to just five games since the 2008-09 season. That year, Houston reached the Western Conference semifinals, breaking a streak of seven consecutive first-round exits for the franchise.

Yao's contract expires this summer, but he has said he hopes to continue playing for the Rockets when he recovers from the stress fracture to his left ankle.

McHale was the third overall pick in the 1980 draft, won three championships with the Celtics and was named one of the 50 greatest NBA players of all time in 1996.

Courtesy from ESPN.com senior NBA writer Marc Stein and The Associated Press

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	25.2
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.	10.3
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. Allen, Memphis G.	1.8
6. Wall, Washington W.	1.8
7. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.8
8. Kidd, Dallas M.	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. Bynum, LA Lakers	1.9
8. Stoudemire, New Y.	1.9
9. Jefferson, Utah J.	1.9
10. Gasol, Memphis G.	1.8

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

NCAA1

Ex-NC State guard Harrow transferring to Kentucky - by Rick Ross
Courtesy of Sportsillustrated.cnn

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) -- Former North Carolina State point guard
Ryan Harrow says he's transferring to Kentucky.

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

His departure from N.C. 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.

Read more:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/basketball/ncaa/05/26/harrow-kentucky.ap/index.html#ixzz1NZDzyK88

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

NEW ZEALAND

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Jack LEASURE
  Taranaki.
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 22

1. Leasure, Taranaki.	22.0
2. Webster, Wellingt.	20.7
3. Hudson, Manawatu.	20.7
4. Jones, Nelson G.	20.3
5. Dora, Nelson G.	20.2
6. Smith, Waikato P.	20.2
7. Pledger, Waika.	19.4
8. Abercrombie, Waika.	19.3
9. Pace, Bay Hawks	19.2
10. Bradshaw, Oceana.	18.7

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Vukona, Nelson G.	11.3
2. Pledger, Waika.	11.2
3. Horvath, Manawatu.	10.9
4. Allred, OceanaGo.	10.6
5. Campbell, Taranaki.	10.3
6. Bradshaw, OceanaG.	9.6
7. Seay, Waikato P.	9.3
8. Johnson, Wellingt.	9.2
9. Trousdell, Bay H.	8.8
10. Frank, Wellington	8.6

Assists Per Game

Jason CROWE
  Waikato P.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Crowe, Waikato P.	7.4
2. Braswell, Southlan.	6.3
3. Dickel, Southland	5.9
4. Tait, Wellington S.	5.8
5. Martin, Auckland.	4.9
6. Kench, Manawatu J.	4.4
7. Smith, Waikato P.	4.1
8. Meehl, Taranaki MA	3.7
9. O''Gallagher, Ocean.	3.3
10. Boucher, Auckland.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Dillon BOUCHER
  Auckland.
  (196-F-75)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Boucher, Auckland.	2.8
2. Smith, Waikato P.	2.8
3. Seay, Waikato P.	2.3
4. Crowe, Waikato P.	2.2
5. Allen, Waikato P.	2.1
6. Kench, Manawatu J.	2.0
7. Dickel, Southland	1.9
8. Frank, Wellington	1.8
9. Leasure, Taranaki.	1.6
10. Abercrombie, Waik.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Alex PLEDGER
  Waika.
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Pledger, Waika.	3.6
2. Seay, Waikato P.	1.5
3. Anthony, Waika.	1.4
4. Iti, Southland S.	1.4
5. Campbell, Taranaki.	1.4
6. Spicer, Southlan.	1.2
7. Allred, OceanaGo.	1.1
8. Brown, Auckland P.	1.0
9. Vukona, Nelson G.	1.0
10. Johnson, Wellingt.	1.0

Standings Men

NBL Standings

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

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

NIGERIA

Afrobasket/AAG: Nigeria open camp with 16 players - by Olusegun Ikuesan
In a bid to better it 5th placement at the 25th edition of the African Cup of Nations known as Afrobasket for Men, the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has mapped out a 3-day preparatory exercise for the nations senior national team, DTigers with mixture of home-based players and few others who ply their trade in the Middle East and other part of the continent.

The camp which will be conducted by the two coaches who qualified Nigeria for the continent biggest basketball showpiece, Coaches Sani Ahmed and Adeka Daudu has sixteen players.

The players comprises reigning DStv Premier Basketball League most valuable player, Abubakar Usman (point guard) of Kano Pillars basketball club also includes Ibrahim Yusuf (off-guard/small forward), Mathew Omonya small forward) and Onyeka Okeke (centre) from the Pillars, Kada Stars basketball club of Kaduna has Abubakar Yusuf (small forward) and Abdulwahab Yahaya (power forward) while Abel Baraya (small forward) was called up from relegated side, Plateau Peaks basketball club of Jos.

Royal Hoopers basketball club of Port Harcourt has three players they include, point guard Michael Ohiero, small forward Musa Usman off-guard and Azuoma Dike; Mohammed Bukar (off-guard) made the list from Dodan Warriors basketball club of Lagos; Orseer Ikyaator (point guard) from Comets basketball club of Lagos and Onyeka Ekpete (power forward) of Union Bank basketball club of Lagos.

The three included players who play professional basketball in the Middle East and other parts of Africa are Stanley Gumut (Libya); Edem Ekpeyong (Kuwait) and Boniface Synasius (Bahrain).

The players are to have two practice session daily between June 2 and 4 at the sports hall of the Abuja national stadium.

Nigerian National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Nigerian National Team 2011

Usman

Yusuf

Baraya

Ohiero

Bukar

Aboubakar Usman

192-G-86

Kano Pillars Nigeria

Ibrahim Yusuf

196-G-89

Kano Pillars Nigeria

Mathew Ogenyi

Kano Pillars Nigeria

Onyeka Okeke

203-F-87

Kano Pillars Nigeria

Yusuf Abubakar

196-F-88

Kada Stars Nigeria

Abdulwahab Yahaya

203-F-93

Kada Stars Nigeria

Abel Baraya

205-F-88

Plateau Peaks Nigeria

Michael Ohiero

191-G-88

Royal Hoopers Nigeria

Musa Usman

191-G-91

Royal Hoopers Nigeria

Dike Azuoma

188-G-89

Royal Hoopers Nigeria

Mohamed Bukar

191-G-90

D.Warriors Nigeria

Orseer Ikyaator

191-G-89

Comets

Onyeka Ekpete

203-F-82

Union Bank Nigeria

Stanley Gumut

197-F-86

Kano Pillars Nigeria

Edem Ekpenyong

195-F-83

Union Bank Nigeria

Boniface Synasius

Sanni Ahmed

Head Coach

Kano Pillars Nigeria

Adeka Daudu

Assistant

D.Warriors Nigeria

DStv PBL Playoffs: NBBF fixes June 20-27 date - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has accepted the proposed June 20 through 27 date recommended by the federation League Board for the final-8 playoffs of the 2010/2011 DStv Premier Basketball League.

According to the President of the Nigeria federation, Tijjani Umar that the date was approved after the successful completion of the regular last Sunday in the Savannah conference of the league.

The NBBF President said the date is to give all eight teams that qualified for the playoffs enough time to prepare for the biggest basketball showpiece of the season and confirmed that venue for the playoffs will be made public soon.

Date for the final-8 playoffs is most important to the teams and sponsor and that is what we have done by announcing the date so that the qualified clubs can begin preparation while our sponsor (MultiChoice Nigeria) will start to work towards that date from it end.

Though the venue is also important but the board is taking a last minute look at the bidders before announcing the venue which will be made public soon.

Meanwhile qualifiers from the Savannah conference emerged at the weekend with defending champion, Kano Pillars basketball club who make a mince meat of city rival Nigeria Immigration basketball club in the last regular season game decided at the sports hall of the Sani Abacha stadium, Kofar mata, Kano by 115-54 points to maintain a hundred percent record in the regular season.

Other qualifiers include Kada Stars with 11-3 record; Yelwa Hawks basketball club of Bauchi 10-4 and Bauchi Nets basketball club 7-7 records.

Atlantic conference has Union Bank basketball club of Lagos 13-1, Royal Hoopers basketball club of Port Harcourt 12-2, Comets basketball club of Lagos 9-5 and Dodan Warriors basketball club of Lagos 8-6 records in that order.

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

PHILIPPINES

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference

PBA Commisioner's Cup Standings

1. Talk N Text		8-1
2. Smart Gilas		7-2
3. Alaska		5-4
4. Air21		5-4
5. Ginebra		5-4
6. Rain or Shine		4-5
7. Derby Ace L.		4-5
8. Meralco B.		3-6
9. Powerade T.		2-7
10. San Miguel		2-7

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

POLAND

Miodrag Rajkovic takes over Slask Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Slask Wroclaw have appointed Miodrag Rajkovic as their new head coach. He will replace Grzegorz Krzak. The Serbian specialist last worked in Serbia. He led Mega Vizura in 2009/10 season. Previously Miodrag Rajkovic worked as coach assistant with Buducnost and Hemofarm.

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

PORTUGAL

Stats Leaders - UZO Liga

Points Per Game

Riley LUETTGERODT
  Sampa.
  (196-G/F-85)
  Avg: 21

1. Luettgerodt, Samp.	21.0
2. Curnell, Barreiren.	20.1
3. Jackson, Sampaense	19.8
4. Eddie, Academica	18.2
5. Shaw, Academica	18.0
6. Austin, Vitoria SC	17.9
7. Johnson, Barreire.	17.6
8. Goode, Penafiel	17.4
9. Crutchfield, Illia.	17.4
10. Stempin, Porto F.	17.2

Rebounds Per Game

Kevin MARTIN
  Vitoria SC
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Martin, Vitoria SC	10.3
2. Cortez, Ovarense	10.0
3. Robert, Lusitania	9.7
4. Shaw, Academica	9.1
5. Eddie, Academica	9.0
6. Jackson, Sampaense	8.8
7. Momplasir, Lusitan.	8.8
8. Curnell, Barreiren.	8.5
9. Terrell, Porto F.	8.5
10. Harris, Illiabum	8.2

Assists Per Game

Nuno MANARTE
  Ovarense
  (184-G-75)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Manarte, Ovarense	6.9
2. Sing, Sampaense	6.3
3. Monteiro, Lusitania	5.2
4. Reveles, Ginasio	4.9
5. Minhava, Benfica	4.8
6. Silva, CAB	4.6
7. Fernandes, CAB	4.5
8. Simoes, Academica	4.5
9. Andrade, Porto F.	4.1
10. Barroso, Ginasio	4.0

Steals Per Game

Tyrone CURNELL
  Barreirense
  (201-F-88)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Curnell, Barreiren.	3.2
2. Cortez, Ovarense	2.7
3. Goode, Penafiel	2.6
4. Silva, CAB	2.5
5. Jackson, CAB	2.5
6. Tavares, Vitoria SC	2.2
7. Felix, Illiabum	2.1
8. Eddie, Academica	2.0
9. Holland, Academica	1.9
10. Almeida, Penafiel	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Marcel MOMPLASIR
  Lusitania
  (205-C-81)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Momplasir, Lusitan.	3.8
2. Coelho, CAB	1.2
3. Jackson, Sampaense	1.2
4. Nolen, Penafiel	1.1
5. Gentry, CAB	1.1
6. Gray, Sampaense	1.1
7. Willis, Illiabum	1.1
8. Harris, Illiabum	1.0
9. Terrell, Porto F.	1.0
10. Austin, Vitoria SC	0.9

LPB Round 5 of Finals. Porto are back in the lead - by Eurobasket News
Porto Ferpinta - Benfica 91-79

Porto Ferpinta grabbed 3-2 lead in the championship series following the home win over Benfica. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. FC Porto Ferpinta made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. FC Porto Ferpinta outrebounded Benfica 37-25 including 26 on the defensive glass. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Julian Terrell (206-F-84, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Vanderbilt) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 15 rebounds for the winners and forward Gregory Stempin (203-79, college: Toledo, agency: Duran International) chipped in 27 points and 7 rebounds (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!). Power forward Gregory Jenkins (206-82, college: Iona) responded with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks and forward Marquin Chandler (202-82, college: San Jose St.) scored 21 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Benfica's coach Henrique Vieira rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Porto Ferpinta: G.Stempin 27+7reb+1ast, J.Terrell 24+15reb, C.Andrade 16+6reb+8ast, S.Ogirri 14+2ast, M.Miranda 6+3reb+1ast, J.Costa 2+2reb+6ast
Benfica: M.Chandler 21+1reb+2ast, G.Jenkins 17+6reb+1ast, H.Evans 16+5reb+1ast, B.Reed 13+7reb, M.Minhava 6+4reb+2ast, E.Evora 2

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

PUERTO RICO

Lee Nailon moves to Puerto Rico - by Eurobasket News
Lee Nailon (204-F/C-75, agency: Basket Law/NM Services, college: TCU) will continue his career in Puerto Rico. The 36-year-old centre signed a deal with Indios de Mayaguez. He will replace Brandon Robinson (202-F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Auburn) on the roster. Lee Nailon recently finished the season in Israel. He played for Bnei Hasharon in Premier League. Lee Nailon tallied 17.6 points, 4.5 boards and 3.2 assists per game. Last season Lee Nailon played in Puerto Rico. He first signed with Quebradillas. The centre notched 21.0 points, 7.6 boards, 2.5 assists and 1.0 block for the Pirates. Later Lee Nailon moved to Leones de Ponce. His stats read 16.6 points, 6.3 boards and 2.4 assists per appearance.

Christian Dalmau gets MVP of the Week award for Puerto Rican BSN - by Eurobasket News
Experienced former international guard Christian Dalmau (194-G-77, agency: Paris Global Sports) had an amazing evening in the last week for league's leader Bayamon and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for week 18.
The 33-year old guard got a double-double of 38 points and ten assists, while his team beat Guaynabo (#4, 12-9) 103-88. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed Bayamon to jump to the first place in the Puerto Rican BSN. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Bayamon has a very solid 12-7 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. In the team's last game Dalmau had a remarkable 64.7% from 2-point range and got four three-pointers out of 8 attempts. It's his second year at Bayamon and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Daytona Beach CC graduate has very impressive stats this year. Dalmau. Dalmau is in league's top in points (3rd best: 22.0ppg) and averages solid 50.8% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last week's games was 28-year old American forward Michael Sweetney (203-F-82) of second-ranked Santurce. Sweetney impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 28 points and 20 rebounds. It was enough for Santurce to edge slightly lower-ranked Guaynabo (#4, 12-9) in overtime by 1 point 111-110. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Santurce consolidated its place in top 2 of the standings. His team's 12-8 record is not bad at all. Sweetney is one of the most experienced players at Santurce and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last week was American center Peter John Ramos (222-C-85) of Quebradillas (#3). Ramos scored 29 points and grabbed seventeen rebounds (!!!). Despite Ramos' great performance Quebradillas lost 86-93 to the lower-ranked Arecibo (#6, 11-9). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Quebradillas needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 12 victories and 8 lost games. Ramos has a great season in Puerto Rico. After 20 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 24.4ppg (2nd best) and rebounds with 11.4rpg (5th best). He also has 1.2bpg and FGP: 57.5%. Peter John Ramos has also Puerto Rican passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Carlos Rivera (187-G-83) of Mayaguez - 27 points, 4 rebounds and 8 assists
5. Michael Sweetney (203-F-82) of Santurce - 17 points, 15 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Larry Ayuso (190-G-77) of Arecibo - 39 points and 4 rebounds
7. Angel Daniel Vassallo (198-G/F-86) of Guaynabo - 34 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Mike Harris (198-F-83) of San German - 15 points and 14 rebounds
9. Shavlik Randolph (208-F-83) of Isabela - 24 points and 12 rebounds
10. Walter Hodge (183-G-86) of Santurce - 32 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists

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

Return of the Giant - by Eurobasket
Arguably the most imposing force in China for the past 2 seasons has been 7-3 Peter John Ramos (222-C-85), who has been unstoppable inside and a tough assignment for any player, or team. In lieu of the looming NBA lockout, Peter has decided to return to China for the 2011-12 CBA season, ' I have decided to return to China, since the NBA may lockout this season'.

Still very young, having just turned 26 years old, the former 2nd round pick of the Washington Wizards, still can develop into a offensive force, as China gives him the option to work on his game, since he typically plays 35 plus minutes. Peter plays year round essentially as he plays in the domestic Puerto Rican league after China ends, in which he is the top big man in that league as well.

Despite rumors and speculation, looks like Peter will return to China, for a 3rd straight season, with an unidentified team.

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

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

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game

Peter John RAMOS
  Quebradillas
  (222-C-85)
  Avg: 24.7

1. Ramos, Quebradillas	24.7
2. Vassallo, Guaynabo	24.7
3. Dalmau, Bayamon	22.0
4. Ayuso, Arecibo	20.9
5. Villegas, Coamo	19.8
6. Johnson, Humacao	19.4
7. Romero, Mayaguez	18.6
8. Harris, San German	18.6
9. Clemente, Humacao	17.7
10. Carmona, Mayaguez	17.3

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Narvaez, Coamo	12.3
2. Randolph, Isabela	11.9
3. Harris, San German	11.9
4. Pruitt, Guaynabo	11.7
5. Ramos, Quebradillas	11.3
6. Lloreda, San G.	10.9
7. Rickert, Bayamon	10.8
8. Sweetney, Santurce	9.7
9. Romero, Mayaguez	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. Clemente, Humacao	4.5
5. Clinch, Isabela	4.5
6. Rivera, Mayaguez	4.3
7. Apodaca, Quebradil.	4.3
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. Santiago, Santurce	1.7
3. Robinson, Mayaguez	1.7
4. Rivera, Mayaguez	1.6
5. Berdiel, Humacao	1.5
6. Robinson, Humacao	1.5
7. Clinch, Isabela	1.5
8. Dalmau, Bayamon	1.4
9. Carmona, Mayaguez	1.4
10. Clemente, Mayagu.	1.3

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

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

RUSSIA

Nizhny Novgorod split ways with Dmitry Kulagin - by Eurobasket News
Nizhny Novgorod have decided to part ways with Dmitry Kulagin (195-G-92). The 18-year-old guard joined Nizhny Novgorod in 2009. Last season the guard notched 5.0 points, 2.3 boards and 1.2 assists per game in EuroChallenge. In Russian PBL Dmitry Kulagin posted 8.6 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.7 assists per appearance.

Bremer has a Russian Playoff record night - by Eurobasket
When Montepaschi Siena's Basketball President Dr. Ferdinando Minucci came calling the Russian Club Krasnie Krilya Samara for Ernest 'J.R.' Bremer (195-G-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: St.Bonaventure) this past season after one of their players got injured, the Russian club obviously did not let him go and we see why. In yesterday's playoff game, the player knotched a Russian League Playoff record of 15 assists in a single game to go with 13 points and 2 rebounds and the Club's first win versus the still powerful CSKA Moscow. Bremer, a former NBA all-rookie is now ranking first in assists in the Russian league and Bremer has led the league in assists for the past three seasons.

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SLOVENIA

Finzgar and Sattler finished third with Tundja Yambol - by Eurobasket News
Simon Finzgar (196-F-80, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and Davor Sattler (185-G-86, agency: Global Sports Plaza) finished third with Tundja Yambol in Bulgaria. Their Tundja won both games against Rilski Sportist to seal the third place. In the second game Tundja Yambol celebrated 80:69 win. 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.Simon Finzgar finished with 6 points and 2 steals to be the fifth top-scorer in the team. Davor Sattler finished with 3 points and 4 assists.
Simon Finzgar averaged 10.9 points per game, while Davor Sattler had 6.1.

Aleksandar Capin is free agent - by Matej Bergant
Aleksandar Capin (186-G-82) is no longer a member of Zalgiris Kaunas. The club decided not to extend his contract even if they had the option in their contract to do so. The naturalized Slovenian guard arrived to Lithuanian club two seasons ago from Russian club Lokomotiv Kuban. He appeared 25 times in LKL this season averaging 3.5 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists. Zalgiris Kaunas won the Lithuanian crown, Baltic League and the Lithuanian Cup, beating Lietuvos Rytas seven times with only one loss on the way to the three trophies. Capin had 3.4 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 1.2 apg in Euroleague this season. He also added 5.7 ppg, 0.3 rpg and 1apg in VTB league.

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SPAIN

Hanga becomes ACB League first signing for 2011/12 - by Natxo Mendaza
Assignia Manresa officially announced its first signing for the next year, just a few days after the end of the regular season. The name of the new addition is Adam Hanga (201-G-89, agency: FCM), who comes from the Hungarian league. Hanga, 22 years old and 2-meter small forward, spent the last 5 seasons in Albacomp and averaged 17.6 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 3.4 apg and 2.8 spg this season. Hanga is reported as one of the top talents of his country, according to the statement made by his new club.

Stats Leaders - ACB

Points Per Game

Jaycee CARROLL
  Gran Canaria
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 19.3

1. Carroll, Gran Cana.	19.3
2. Navarro, Regal B.	16.1
3. McDonald, DKV J.	15.3
4. Fitch, Unicaja	15.0
5. Baron, Lagun A.	15.0
6. Teletovic, Caja L.	14.8
7. Caner-Medley, Estu.	14.4
8. Martinez, Valencia	14.0
9. Freeland, Unicaja	13.2
10. Davis, Cajasol	13.2

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Kurz, Granada	9.1
2. Batista, Fuenlabr.	8.4
3. Caner-Medley, Estu.	7.6
4. Barac, Caja Laboral	7.0
5. Donaldson, Menorca	6.9
6. Ayon, Fuenlabrada	6.5
7. Wallace, Gran Cana.	6.3
8. Doellman, Meridiano	6.2
9. Slokar, Manresa	6.2
10. Freeland, Unicaja	6.1

Assists Per Game

Marcelinho HUERTAS
  Caja L.
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 6

1. Huertas, Caja L.	6.0
2. Cook, Valencia	5.4
3. Ciorciari, Menorca	4.9
4. Valters, Fuenlabr.	4.5
5. Rubio, Regal Barca	4.4
6. Salgado, Lagun A.	4.3
7. Green, Gran Canaria	4.0
8. Prigioni, Real Mad.	3.9
9. San Miguel, Manre.	3.9
10. Dumas, Valladolid	3.9

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Biyombo, Fuenlabr.	2.3
2. Fischer, Real Madr.	1.5
3. Vazquez, Regal B.	1.4
4. Ayon, Fuenlabrada	1.4
5. Kurz, Granada	1.3
6. Barnes, Valladolid	1.3
7. Batista, Fuenlabr.	1.1
8. Savane, Gran C.	1.1
9. Andriuskevic., Mer.	1.0
10. Slaughter, Vallad.	1.0

ACB Round 1 of Semi-Finals. Regal Barca and Real Madrid take wins - by Eurobasket News
Real Madrid - Bizkaia Bilbao 78-67

Real Madrid celebrated the first win in the semis as they edged visiting Bizkaia Bilbao. The game without a history. Real Madrid led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. International guard Sergio Llull (190-87) fired 20 points for the winners. Croatian center Ante Tomic (217-87) chipped in 15 points and 7 rebounds. Real Madrid's coach Emanuele Molin used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Croatian forward Marko Banic (205-84) produced 18 points and 7 rebounds and Greek swingman Costas Vasiliadis (200-84, agency: FCM) added 16 points respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Real Madrid: S.Llull 20+4reb+1ast, A.Tomic 15+7reb+2ast, C.Tucker 11+4reb+3ast, C.Suarez 8+1reb+2ast, S.Rodriguez 6+1reb+3ast, F.Reyes 5+10reb+4ast
Bizkaia Bilbao: M.Banic 18+7reb+2ast, C.Vasiliadis 16+2reb+2ast, D.Mavroeidis 10+6reb+1ast, A.Mumbru 9+4reb+3ast, A.Jackson 6+3reb+3ast, J.Fisher 2+1reb+1ast

Regal Barca - Caja Laboral 86-71

Regal Barca outscored Caja Laboral in the opener. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 46-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Regal FC Barcelona dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Caja Laboral's 40. They outrebounded Caja Laboral 37-18 including 25 on the defensive glass. Slovenian power forward Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) fired a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Alan Anderson (198-82, college: Michigan St., agency: Priority Sports) chipped in 17 points and 6 rebounds. Four Regal FC Barcelona players scored in double figures. Brazilian-Italian guard Marcelinho Huertas (191-83, agency: Edge Sports) produced 17 points and 6 assists and Bosnian forward Mirza Teletovic (206-85, agency: Beo Basket) added 23 points respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Regal Barca: E.Lorbek 17+10reb+1ast, A.Anderson 17+6reb+2ast, J.Carlos Navarro 17+1reb+6ast, B.Ndong 17+6reb, V.Sada 6+2reb+4ast, K.Perovic 4+5reb
Caja Laboral: M.Teletovic 23+2reb, M.Huertas 17+3reb+6ast, S.Barac 17+5reb, P.Ribas 5+1reb+2ast, E.Batista 4, D.Logan 3+1ast

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TAIWAN

Taiwan announces final roster for EABC - by Chris Wang
The Chinese Taipei Basketball Association on Friday announced the final roster for the upcoming East Asian Basketball Championship, the qualifying tournament for the 2011 FIBA Asia Championship.

The 12-man lineup is led by three core players who played last season in China, including former Taiwan Beer forward Lin Chih-chieh and a pair of ex-Yulon Luxgen stars -- forward Chen HsinAn (196-G/F-80) and point guard Lee Hsueh-lin.

Roster:
Yang Ching-min, 188cm, 1984/01/22, 27, TB
Wu Tai-hao, 202cm, 1985/02/07, 26, TB
Cheng Jen-wei, 194cm, 1987/04/06, 24, KKL
James Mao, 196cm, 1982/11/16, 28, PY
Chien Chia-hung, 197cm, 1987/03/06, 24, PY
Lu Cheng-ju, 194cm, 1986/08/23, 24, Yulon
Su Yi-chieh, 182cm, 1987/01/28, 24, TM
Lee Hsueh-lin, 175cm, 1984/01/31, 27, Beijing (China)
Lin Chih-chieh, 192cm, 1982/06/11, 28, Zhejiang (China)
Chen HsinAn, 195cm, 1980/07/01, 30, Dong Guan (China)
Chou Po-chen, 196cm, 1990/08/08, 20, Taiwan Normal University
Hung Chih-shan, 176cm, 1985/07/05, 25, Pure Youth
Head coach: Chou Jun-san, Taiwan Beer
Assistants: Hsu Chin-tse, Pure Youth; Liu Hwa-lin, Taiwan Beer

PY point guard Hung Chih-shan, who was not on the 24-man roster, was added to the squad, which omitted several oversea players -- center Tseng Wen-ting (Japan), Jet Chang (U.S.) and Chou Yi-hsiang (U.S.)

Noticeably absent from the final roster were four players who have to sit out the tourney due to injury: Dacin forward Tien Lei, TB point guard Chen Shih-nian, TB forward Ho Shou-cheng and Dacin guard Chang Chih-feng.

With only one player taller than 200cm (Wu Tai-hao), the team is extremely small and will likely depend on its speed and perimeter shooting in the tournament, which will be held in Nanjing, China from June 8 to June 15.

The 2011 EABC is the qualifying tournament for the 2011 FIBA Asia Championship, which will be held in Wuhan, Hubei, China from September 15 to 25. The three best teams, excluding China, qualify for 2011 FIBA Asia Championship.

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TURKEY

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

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

1. Karadeniz, Trabzon.	23.0
2. Kambala, Aliaga	20.2
3. Buckman, Antalya	19.6
4. Henderson, Antalya	19.1
5. Smith, Karsiyaka	18.8
6. Seibutis, Olin Edi.	18.7
7. Kemp, Besiktas	17.9
8. Randle, Aliaga	17.5
9. Mays, Oyak Renault	17.2
10. Barbour, Erdemir	17.2

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Yucel, Mersin	11.3
2. Thomas, Erdemir	10.2
3. Wesson, Turk T.	9.2
4. Mays, Oyak Renault	9.0
5. Buckman, Antalya	9.0
6. Ffriend, Bornova	8.7
7. Samardjiski, Olin	8.5
8. Smith, Bornova	7.9
9. Smith, Karsiyaka	7.8
10. Karadeniz, Trabzo.	7.6

Assists Per Game

Baris ERMIS
  Banvit
  (194-G-85)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Ermis, Banvit	6.3
2. Holston, Karsiyaka	6.0
3. Conroy, Oyak R.	5.9
4. Rasic, Trabzonspor	5.3
5. Chatman, Besiktas	5.1
6. Henderson, Antalya	4.7
7. Rowe, Tofas	4.6
8. Acik, Galatasaray	4.5
9. Tunceri, Efes Pils.	4.3
10. Ukic, Fener.Ulker	4.3

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

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

TBL Round 2 of Semi-Finals. Fenerbahce and Banvit earn victories - by Eurobasket News
Efes Pilsen - Fener.Ulker 82-87

Fenerbahce celebrated the second straight win over Efes Pilsen. This time Fenerbahce Ulker stole the victory on the road. Efes Pilsen trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 22-15 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 82-87 at the end of the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Efes Pilsen helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Croatian guard Marko Tomas (201-85) who scored 22 points and 5 rebounds. Croatian guard Roko-Leni Ukic (195-84) chipped in 19 points and 4 assists. International power forward Kerem Gonlum (208-77) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists and the former international guard Kerem Tunceri (190-79) added 9 points and 7 assists respectively for the hosts. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Efes Pilsen's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Fener.Ulker: M.Tomas 22+5reb+2ast, R.Ukic 19+2reb+4ast, O.Onan 17+1reb+1ast, O.Savas 14+5reb+4ast, E.Preldzic 7+3reb+2ast, S.Jasikevicius 4
Efes Pilsen: K.Gonlum 14+11reb+4ast, B.Nachbar 14+3reb, L.Roberts 13+4reb, S.Guler 11+2reb+5ast, K.Tunceri 9+3reb+7ast, M.Thornton 6

Banvit - Galatasaray 85-74

Banvit overcame Galatasaray to draw things level in the semifinal series. It looked good early as Galatasaray took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Banvit had a 23-21 second period charge getting the lead and Galatasaray was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 74-85. American-Azerbaijan forward Charles Davis (202-84, college: Alabama) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds. The former international guard Baris Ermis (194-85) contributed with 11 points and 7 assists for the winners. Four Banvit players scored in double figures. The former international guard Tutku Acik (194-80) replied with 15 points and 5 assists and American swingman Joshua Shipp (196-86, college: UCLA) added 8 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Galatasaray. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Banvit: C.Davis 20+11reb+2ast, J.Dixon 19+1ast, L.Williams 11+3reb+1ast, B.Ermis 11+2reb+7ast, M.Akpinar 9+2reb+2ast, Y.Turna 5+1reb
Galatasaray: T.Acik 15+2reb+5ast, E.Buker 11+3reb, P.Shumpert 11+2ast, J.Shipp 8+8reb+2ast, E.Kurtoglu 8+5reb+1ast, L.Andric 7+2reb

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UKRAINE

Superleague Round 5 of Finals. BC Donetsk step away from title - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

BC Donetsk - Budivelnyk 88-74

BC Donetsk recorded the third victory in the championship series. They are now step away from the title. The game was mostly controlled by BC Donetsk. Budivelnyk managed to win third quarter 25-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 21-of-26 free shots (80.8 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American power forward J.K. Edwards (202-C/F-82, college: UNLV) who scored 18 points and 5 rebounds. Serbian-Bosnian guard Sasa Vasiljevic (183-79, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 17 points and 5 assists. American guard Dewarick Spencer (193-82, college: Arkansas St., agency: Higher Vision Sports) produced 18 points and the other American import forward Zach Morley (203-83, college: Wisconsin) added 10 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
BC Donetsk: J.Edwards 18+5reb+2ast, S.Vasiljevic 17+3reb+5ast, B.Cvetkovic 13+4reb+2ast, V.Kravtsov 10+2reb+1ast, J.Hukic 8+4reb+3ast, J.Gray 8+1reb+2ast
Budivelnyk: D.Spencer 18+4reb+3ast, D.Ikovlev 10+2reb, Z.Morley 10+5reb+1ast, L.Wilson 9+2reb, W.Keys 6+1reb+1ast, A.Betts 6+2reb

3-4 place

Ferro-ZNTU - Hoverla 81-83 OT

Hoverla used overtime to defeat Ferro-ZNTU. The victory allowed Hoverla to celebrate Superleague Bronze medals. Eric Coleman (200-C-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: N.Iowa) stepped up with 19 points and 10 rebounds to lead the visitors. Jeremy Chappell (191-G-87, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Robert Morris) added 18 points and 6 rebounds in the victory. R.T. Guinn (208-C-81, college: Baylor) answered with 20 points and 8 rebounds for Ferro-ZNTU. Keddric Mays (183-G-84, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) netted 17 points, dished out 4 assists and grabbed 4 boards in the losing effort.
Top scorers:
Hoverla: E.Coleman 19+10reb+4ast, J.Chappell 18+6reb+2ast, D.Zimmerman 17+6reb+5ast, D.Swanson 10+3reb+5ast, V.Gerasimchuk 7+4reb+1ast, A.Dubnyuk 5
Ferro-ZNTU: R.Guinn 20+8reb, K.Mays 17+4reb+4ast, H.Kandrusevich 16+11reb+2ast, V.Hunter 9+5reb+1ast, S.Ovdeenko 9+3reb+1ast, C.Burns 5+5reb+1ast

Standings - Higher League

Higher Standings

Places 1-8
1. Cherkasy		27-1
2. U-VolinBasket		20-8
3. Avantazh-Pol.		13-13
4. Aviastar		11-17
5. Dynamo DN		11-17
6. Kremen-KNU		10-18
7. Vinnitsky Zubry		9-17
8. Pulsar		9-19
Places 9-13
1. KTU Krivyi Rih		12-2
2. Koksokh-Stal		11-4
3. Striba		7-7
4. Sportlitsey		7-8
5. Ternopil		0-16

New head coach in Khimik - by Alexei Revenko
Khimik announced that Darko Russo (agency: Beo Basket ) is a new team head coach. Darko began his coach career in 1995. During the career Darko Russo (agency: Beo Basket ) was head coach of KK Beobanka Beograd 1995-2000, Partizan 2000-2001, Hemofarm Vrsac 2001, Buducnost Podgorica 2001, Apollon Patras 2002-2006, Maroussi Athens 2006-2007 and Igokea Aleksandrovac 2008-2009. Serbian coach will began work in club in June. The contract with coach sign for one year.

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

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

1. Burtt, Dnipro	22.4
2. Flores, BC Donetsk	16.7
3. Washington, BC Od.	16.4
4. Curry, Azovmash	16.1
5. Burns, Fe.	16.0
6. Wiggins, Halychyna	15.1
7. Millage, Khimik	14.9
8. Love, Mykolaiv	14.7
9. Fraser, DniproAzot	14.5
10. Bakic, Kryvbasb.	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Fraser, DniproAzot	10.9
2. Wiggins, Halychyna	9.3
3. Burns, Fe.	7.8
4. Saltovets, BC Kyiv	7.6
5. Austin, Dnipro	7.3
6. Morrison, Halyc.	7.2
7. Guinn, Fe.	6.8
8. Chappell, Hoverla	6.6
9. Owens, Azovmash	6.6
10. Coleman, Hoverla	6.5

Assists Per Game

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

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

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Hughes, Mykolaiv	2.1
2. Kravtsov, BC Do.	1.8
3. Morrison, Halyc.	1.4
4. Zaitsev, Kryvbasb.	1.4
5. Hunter, Fe.	1.4
6. Coleman, Hoverla	1.3
7. Turner, BC Odessa	1.3
8. Pettway, Dnipro	1.2
9. Balashov, BC Odes.	1.2
10. Owens, Azovmash	1.1

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UNITED KINGDOM

U16 Men face Belgium series - by Eurobasket News
England U16 Men will face Belgium in a three match series in Leicester for the second consecutive year.

Leicester City Council is hosting the competition at Braunstone Leisure Centre from Monday 18 to Wednesday 20 July 2011, supported by Leicester Warriors, who will be organising competitions around the event involving local young people.

Head Coach Simon Fisher stated: I cant thank Leicester City Council and our other partners enough. The only way we are able to host an event of this nature is with the help of delivery partners. I am excited for the players who get to play at the highest level on home soil. I hope that people will come out and support them.

Spectators are invited to attend the game on Tuesday 19 July 2011. Tickets will be available on the door at a price of 3.

Assistant Coach Karl Brown is delighted to bring his team to his home town: It is a great chance for the people of Leicester to see young people playing basketball at the top level. From my perspective as Leicester Warriors coach, it is an opportunity for the players to see the standard that they are striving for in order to join fellow Warriors Raphell Thomas-Edwards and Elliott Sentance on the England honours roll.

Our thanks also go to Gateway Community College, which is providing a practice facility for both teams over the three days, and Premier Inn Leicester Braunstone South, which is accommodating the teams.

In 2010, England lost the first match of the series, but recovered to win the last two. England went on to record an 11th place finish in the FIBA Europe U16 European Championship Men, whereas Belgium finished 13th. This season, England have been drawn in Group A for the initial stages of the European Championship alongside Georgia, Belarus, Romania, Luxembourg and Macedonia. Belgium are in Group D with Israel, Denmark, Estonia and Bosnia & Herzegovina.

The full list of international games in England for the junior national teams is -

May:
28-29 England U16 Women v Netherlands @ Manchester ABC 2 games
June:
3 England U18 Women v Scotland @ Ipswich 2 games
3-4 GB U20 Men v Scotland U23 @ Colchester 2 games
17-18 GB U20 Women v Netherlands @ Cardiff 2 games
24-25 GB U20 Men v Netherlands @ Bristol 2 games
July:
1-3 England U16 Men v Netherlands @ Ipswich 3 games
3-4 GB U20 Men v Denmark @ Colchester 2 games
6-7 GB U20 Men v Belgium @ Colchester 2 games
7-11 England U18 Men v Netherlands, Slovenia, Sweden, USA Select, Richmond College at Future Stars Tournament @ Brunel University London
18-20 England U16 Men v Belgium @ Leicester 3 games
28-31 England U16 Women v Germany TBC 2 or 3 games
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk

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URUGUAY

Brad Kanis will be national player for next LUB - by Sergio Palay

Club Trouville player Brad Kanis (218-C-84, college: Grand Canyon) is close to completing the paperwork to obtain the citizenship of Uruguay.
So, Kanis will not be considered as foreign player in the next Liga Uruguaya.
Kanis, is one of the bets for the future of Uruguay National Team. His height makes it an interesting solution to accompany Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83) in the inside game.
In these months Kanis is doing a special job of technique and skill.

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VENEZUELA

LPB Round 47: Leader Cocodrilos lose to Marinos - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in LPB is slowly approaching the end. But there may be still some important changes in the final standings in the last 7 rounds. The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with defeat of the leader.

Top ranked Cocodrilos (30-8) recorded its eighth loss in Caracas on Wednesday night. Hosts were defeated by second ranked Marinos (28-11) 82-72. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Cocodrilos. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. Marinos maintains second place with 28-11 record having just one points less than leader Cocodrilos. Cocodrilos at the other side still keep top position with eight games lost. Marinos are looking forward to face Panteras (#7) in Caracas in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Cocodrilos will have a break next round.
Important game to mention about took place in Caracas. First ranked Cocodrilos (30-8) saved a 2-point victory at home edging second-ranked Marinos (28-11) 76-74 in the game for the first place. Cocodrilos have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain first place with 30-8 record. Marinos at the other side keep the second position with 11 games lost. Cocodrilos' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Caracas.

A very close game took place in Porlamar between Guaiqueries and Bucaneros. Fifth ranked Guaiqueries (21-18) got a very close home victory over 4th placed Bucaneros (22-18). Guaiqueries managed to escape with a 2-point win 94-92 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Bucaneros. Guaiqueries maintains fifth place with 21-18 record. Loser Bucaneros keep the fourth position with 18 games lost. Guaiqueries will meet Gigantes (#6) in the next round. Bucaneros will have a break next round.
Seventh-ranked Panteras (15-25) made lots of trouble for fourth ranked Bucaneros (22-18) in Caracas. The visitors from La Guaira managed to secure only three-point victory 94-91. However their fans expected easier game. The victory was the third consecutive win for Bucaneros. They maintain fourth place with 22-18 record. Panteras lost their eighth game in a row. They keep the seventh position with 25 games lost. Bucaneros will have a break next round. Panteras will play at home against the league's second-placed Marinos (#2) in Puerto La Cruz.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Valencia. Local Trotamundos (27-11) outscored 10th ranked Gaiteros (5-34) 96-53 on Monday night. Trotamundos maintains third place with 27-11 record having just three points less than leader Cocodrilos. Gaiteros lost their sixth game in a row. They stay dead last with 34 lost games. Trotamundos will face again bottom-ranked Gaiteros (#10) in Maracaibo in the next round and are hoping to win another game.

In the last game of round 47 bottom-ranked Gaiteros were defeated by Trotamundos in Valencia 98-80.

Trotamundos - Gaiteros 98-80

There was no surprise in Valencia where 10th ranked Gaiteros (5-34) were defeated by third ranked Trotamundos (27-11) 98-80 on Tuesday. Trotamundos maintains third place with 27-11 record having just three points less than leader Cocodrilos. Gaiteros lost their sixth game in a row. They stay dead last with 34 lost games. Trotamundos will face again bottom-ranked Gaiteros (#10) in Maracaibo in the next round and are hoping to win another game.

Guaiqueries - Bucaneros 94-92

A very close game took place in Porlamar between Guaiqueries and Bucaneros. Fifth ranked Guaiqueries (21-18) got a very close home victory over 4th placed Bucaneros (22-18). Guaiqueries managed to escape with a 2-point win 94-92 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Bucaneros. Guaiqueries maintains fifth place with 21-18 record. Loser Bucaneros keep the fourth position with 18 games lost. Guaiqueries will meet Gigantes (#6) in the next round. Bucaneros will have a break next round.

Cocodrilos - Marinos 72-82

Top ranked Cocodrilos (30-8) recorded its eighth loss in Caracas on Wednesday night. Hosts were defeated by second ranked Marinos (28-11) 82-72. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Cocodrilos. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. Marinos maintains second place with 28-11 record having just one points less than leader Cocodrilos. Cocodrilos at the other side still keep top position with eight games lost. Marinos are looking forward to face Panteras (#7) in Caracas in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Cocodrilos will have a break next round.

Trotamundos - Gaiteros 96-53

The game with biggest result difference took place in Valencia. Local Trotamundos (27-11) outscored 10th ranked Gaiteros (5-34) 96-53 on Monday night. Trotamundos maintains third place with 27-11 record having just three points less than leader Cocodrilos. Gaiteros lost their sixth game in a row. They stay dead last with 34 lost games. Trotamundos will face again bottom-ranked Gaiteros (#10) in Maracaibo in the next round and are hoping to win another game.

Cocodrilos - Marinos 76-74

Important game to mention about took place in Caracas. First ranked Cocodrilos (30-8) saved a 2-point victory at home edging second-ranked Marinos (28-11) 76-74 in the game for the first place. Cocodrilos have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain first place with 30-8 record. Marinos at the other side keep the second position with 11 games lost. Cocodrilos' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Caracas.

Panteras - Bucaneros 91-94

Seventh-ranked Panteras (15-25) made lots of trouble for fourth ranked Bucaneros (22-18) in Caracas. The visitors from La Guaira managed to secure only three-point victory 94-91. However their fans expected easier game. The victory was the third consecutive win for Bucaneros. They maintain fourth place with 22-18 record. Panteras lost their eighth game in a row. They keep the seventh position with 25 games lost. Bucaneros will have a break next round. Panteras will play at home against the league's second-placed Marinos (#2) in Puerto La Cruz.

Standings - LPB

LPB Standings

1. Cocodrilos		30-8
2. Marinos		28-11
3. Trotamundos		28-11
4. Bucaneros		22-18
5. Guaiqueries		21-18
6. Gigantes		20-18
7. Panteras		15-25
8. Toros		14-25
9. Guaros		12-26
10. Gaiteros		5-35

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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Big V: Round 10 preview - by Eurobasket News
Ringwood vs. Eltham Sat 28/05 6.15pm @ Maroondah Indoor Sports Centre
The top two teams in the State Championship Womens competition do battle on what will be a huge night of basketball at the Maroondah Indoor Sports Centre. Ringwood are currently riding high on a 5 game winning streak and have been in fantastic form all season. That being said their only loss was at the hands of the Wildcats, and since then Eltham have added Hollie Grima-Florance to their already imposing line-up. Eltham are still the Championship favourites but on their home floor before what should be a bumper crowd, look for the Hawks to push the Wildcats all the way.

Hume City vs. Bulleen Sat 28/05 6pm @ Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium
The winless Hume City Broncos will be hoping that Round 10 is the night they manage to pick up their first W of the season when they take on the Bulleen Boomers at home. In Round 9 again the Lady Broncos were competitive- giving Eltham a tougher contest then what most expected and Coach Vaughns will be hoping to have his charges fired up against a Boomers side desperately needing to win to keep their faint play-off hopes alive. After putting together a couple of wins, the Boomers have now dropped 2 on the trot but look for them to have too much experience against the young Broncos and they should come out comfortable winners.

Waverley vs. Sherbrooke Sun 29/05 1.30pm @ Waverley Basketball Centre
Waverley is fast earning a reputation as having the fiercest defense in the State Championship Womens competition. Last week Waverley kept the 4th place Melbourne Tigers team to a lowly 30 points and on this result alone one would think this should be a pretty straight forward win over the Suns. Sherbrooke had a couple of new faces suiting up last weekend and with an extra week on the training track for new recruits Celeste Smith and Esther Timmermans the Suns will look to produce a much more competitive performance.
Diamond Valley vs. Melbourne Sun 29/05 3pm @ Diamond Valley Sports & Fitness Centre
Sitting in 4th position on the ladder it is important the Melbourne Tigers keep winning games to ensure that they maintain that break between themselves and the 5th place Bulleen. Coach Goodman would no doubt have been working on his teams offensive output this round after being held to a lowly 30 against Waverley in Round 9. This game is lurking as a bit of a danger game for the Tigers as Diamond Valley are coming off a drought breaking win over Hume City last weekend. The Eagles have been far more competitive since the addition of US import Ashley Jenkins (178-F, college: Charleston), and along with Ashley, 3 other players all had double figures against the Lady Broncos. Confidence will be high in the Eagles camp setting this game up to be an absolute beauty.
Courtesy of: bigv.com.au

Suns, Eagles face crucial match (Round 11 WSBL Preview) - by Eurobasket News
Kalamunda Eastern Suns and Australian Central East Perth Eagles will be looking to boost their top four hopes when they meet in round 11 of the women's State Basketball League.

The sixth-placed Suns and the Eagles, who sit in seventh spot, are just one and two wins outside of the top four respectively and victory would improve either side's chances of finishing with home court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.

Kalamunda import Leah Rush has been in top form lately and her battle against West Coast Waves tall Samantha Norwood could be crucial to determining the outcome of the game.

Metropolis Fremantle Cockburn Cougars could move into the top four if they beat Perth Redbacks on the road.

The Cougars are within one win of the top four after winning three of their last four games, but the eighth-placed Redbacks, who will be desperate to get back into form after losing three of their previous four, have the potential to cause an upset.

Total Connections Perry Lakes Hawks have an excellent opportunity to consolidate their spot in the top two when they face Lakeside Lightning and Rockingham Flames.

With league leaders Southlands Boulevarde Willetton Tigers and third-placed side Mandurah Magic both having the bye, the Hawks, who sit in second spot, have the chance to make ground on both sides.

But Lakeside will be desperate to end its two-game losing streak and get back into finals contention, while the Flames will be trying for just their second win of the season.

Glasscraft Wanneroo Wolves moved back into the top four with a pair of victories last week and will be looking to continue their solid form with a win against Lakeside.

Western Stainless Stirling Senators have the perfect chance to get back into form when they face bottom two sides Rockingham and Southwest Slammers.

The Senators have lost their last three games and need to improve quickly to have any chance of making the top eight, but they'll start heavy favourites against the Flames and the Slammers, who have lost their last 11 games.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL

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BELARUS - Women

Belarusian National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Belarusian National Team 2011

Valko

Dureika

Anufryienka

Likhtarovich

Troina

Sviatlana Valko

175-G-89

Gorizont

Yuliya Dureika

180-F/G-86

Gorizont

Natalia Anufryienka

174-G-85

Gorizont

Tatsiana Likhtarovich

179-G/F-88

Gorizont

Tatyana Troina

188-F-81

Gorizont

Viktoriya Hasper

193-C-88

Gorizont

Darya Lipinskaya

180-G/F-93

Gorizont

Maryna Ivashchanka

190-C-93

Gorizont

Tatsiana Dashkevich

179-F/G-89

Olimpia

Maryia Filonchyk

189-C-92

Olimpia

Anastasiya Veremeenko

192-C-87

Nadezhda O. Russia

Katerina Snytsina

188-F-85

Nadezhda O. Russia

Nataliya Trafimava

186-F-79

CCC Polkowice Poland

Alena Novikava

177-G-88

LKS Siemens Poland

Yelena Leuchanka

196-C-83

Atlanta D. USA

Natalia Marchanka

170-G-79

Dynamo M.

Marina Kress

192-C-80

Botas

Alexandra Tarasava

170-G-88

MBK Ruzomb. Slovakia

Belarus roll past Ukraine in Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Belarus - Ukraine 61:45

Belarus earned the first win at the international friendly tournament in Lithuania. They held off Ukraine in Druskininkai. Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) and Marina Kress (192-C-80) scored 15 points each to pace the winners.
Belarus stunned their opponents at the start of the game. They limited Ukraine to 4 points in the opening quarter to take a 15-point lead at the first break. Ukraine stopped the bleeding in the second frame. They adjusted their offence and cut the distance to 10 points at halftime 23:33. Ukraine continued to draw closer in the third frame. They got within 8 points with one quarter remaining. But Belarus shifted the gear in the final stanza. They outscored Ukraine 18:10 in the fourth quarter and celebrated a comfortable win at the end. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-C-87) and Tatsiana Likhtarovich (179-G/F-88, agency: LBM Management) nailed 8 points apiece in the victory. Alina Iagupova (181-G-92, agency: LBM Management) responded with 15 points and 13 rebounds for Ukraine. Aleksandra Khomenchuk (203-C-89) netted 6 points in the loss.

Belarus: Natalia Anufryienka 15, Marina Kress 15, Anastasiya Veremeenko 8, Tatsiana Likhtarovich 8
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 15+13 boards, Aleksandra Khomenchuk 6

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BELGIUM - Women

Kathy Wambe comes back to Villeneuve d'Ascq - by Eurobasket News
Kathy Wambe (173-G-81) comes back to Villeneuve d'Ascq where she played since year 2002. In 2008-2009 she moved to Union Saint-Amand Porte du Hainaut (France-LFB, starting five) and in French League after 18 games averaged 9.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 4.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 71.4%. In Euroleague after 10 games her stats read 9.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.5apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 75.6%.
The last two seasons the Belgian player spent in Italy for Cras Taranto (Italy-A1, starting five). In her first year there she averaged 8.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 63.0% in EuroLeague and in Italian League showed 7.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.9apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 25.7%, FT: 57.3%. This season Kathy Wambe's statst were 7.9ppg, 3.2rpg, Assists-5 (2.6apg), 2.4spg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 3.3%, FT: 60.2% and in Euroleague: 10.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.0apg, 2.0spg, FGP-2 (63.0%), 3PT: 8.3%, FT: 60.3%
Kathy Wambe and her Taranto just finished the season in Italy. Familia Schio became the new champion of Italy. They outplayed Taranto 75-59 in fifth crucial game of the A1 Finals taking back the title after three years. At the same time, Familia Schio dethroned Taranto who was winning the championship for the last two seasons.

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CROATIA - Women

Croatian National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Mandir

Lelas

Jelavic

Sliskovic

Ivankovic

Sandra Mandir

175-G-77

Gospic

Ana Lelas

183-G/F-83

Lattes Montp. France

Anda Jelavic

172-G-80

Wisla Can-Pak Poland

Antonija Misura

178-F-88

Jolly

Mirna Mazic

188-F-85

Panionios

Iva Ciglar

170-G-85

SEAT Lami

Iva Sliskovic

194-F-84

Rivas Ecopolis Spain

Luca Ivankovic

199-C-87

Jolly

Jelena Ivezic

182-F/G-84

Gospic

Lisa Karcic

182-F-86

Keflavik

Marta Cakic

175-G-82

Jolly

Sena Pavetic

198-C-86

Gospic

Croatia beat Montenegro in overtime - by Zeljko Zule
Croatia won their second warm-up game for the Eurobasket as they defeated Montenegro 82-80 in the overtime. Ana Lelas had 20 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists, Iva Sliskovic scored 17 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, Anda Jelavic (175-G-80) collected 12 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and American born Lisa Karcic in her debut posted 3 points.
Croatia-Montenegro 82-80 OT (14-12, 20-23, 14-18, 22-17 12-10; Mandir 6, Jelavic 12, Misura 2, Cakic 7, Mazic 1, Lelas 20, Sliskovic 17, Pavetic 4, Ivankovic 6 (4sk), Ivezic 4, Karcic 3)

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CUBA - Women

Cuban National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Gelis

Amargo

Cepeda

Oquendo

Avila

Islen Carbonell

182-G/F-87

Guantanamo Cuba

Ineidis Casanova

165-G-88

Santiago

Oyanaisy Gelis

172-G-83

Santiago

Edith Thompson

190-C-91

Yamara Amargo

180-F-85

Sancti Spiritus Cuba

Marlen Cepeda

193-C-85

Sancti Spiritus Cuba

Clenia Noblet

191-C-87

Guantanamo Cuba

Taimy Fernandez

183-F-82

Pinar del Rio Cuba

Leidys Oquendo

180-F-82

Camaguey

Suchitel Avila

183-F-82

Capitalinas Cuba

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

Poland NT wins the opener in Karlovy Vary - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic-Poland 48:51

Poland NT wins the opener in Karlovy Vary of four-nation tournament. The Polish team overcame the hosts 51:48 due to the last period.
Czech Republic started better and scored the first 10 points in the game. They however grabbed only 16-13 after the first 10 minutes, but looked forward to keep the advantage. Agnieszka Szott (184-F-82, agency: Data Plus Group) meanwhile gave Polish their first lead at 17:16 and Poland took 30:28 halftime advantage. Czech Republic needed 11-9 in the third frame to tie the clash, but Poland wanted to win more. They produced 12-9 in the last quarter to seal the first victory.
Agnieszka Szott stepped up with 11 points for the winners, while Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85) netted 10. Patrycja Gulak-Lipka (193-C-82, college: Massachusetts) ended up with 8, whilst Elzbieta Mowlik (180-F-83, agency: Data Plus Group) scored 7. Ilona Burgrova (197-C-84, college: S.Carolina), Petra Kulichova (198-C-84) and Eva Viteckova (189-F-82) answered with 7 points each in the losing effort.

Czech Republic: Ilona Burgrova 7, Petra Kulichova 7, Eva Viteckova 7
Poland: Agnieszka Szott 11, Justyna Zurowska 10, Patrycja Gulak-Lipka 8, Elzbieta Mowlik 7

Czech Republic National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Vesela

Bartonova

Elhotova

Burgrova

Viteckova

Jana Vesela

192-F-83

Ros Casares Spain

Romana Hejdova

182-F-88

Frisco Sika Czech Republic

Michaela Zrustova

182-F-87

USK Praha

Katerina Bartonova

172-G-90

USK Praha

Alena Hanusova

190-C/F-91

Frisco Sika Czech Republic

Katerina Elhotova

180-G-89

USK Praha

Ilona Burgrova

196-C-84

USK Praha

Petra Kulichova

198-C-84

USK Praha

Eva Viteckova

190-F-82

USK Praha

Darina Johnova

177-G-85

Strakonice Czech Republic

Tereza Peckova

190-F-87

USK Praha

Michaela Hartigova

192-C-83

Hradec Kralove Czech Republic

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EUROLEAGUE - Women

Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca grab Marta Fernandez - by Eurobasket News
Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca grab Marta Fernandez (178-F-81) from Ros Casares for the next season. The Spanish star that will not play in Eurobasket this summer heads to the Spanish Champions.
Marta Fernandez spent 2010-2011 season with Ros Casares Valencia (LFB) and in Euroleague after 17 games averaged 9.2ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 84.6%. In Spanish League after 30 games her stats read 10.1ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 67.8%.
In EuroLeague she recorded 20 points twice with the last one over the Slovakian Champion. Ros Casares won Group D of EuroLeague after an easy road win over Frisco Sika Brno. The Spanish Powerhouse needed 98:49 to finish on top with 8-2 record. Douglas erupted with 35 points for the winners, while Marta Fernandez added 20.
In Spanish League she also scored 20 points twice with the latest against Hondarribia-Irun. Ros Casares outscored Hondarribia-Irun 91-50 on Saturday night.

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FINLAND - Women

Lithuania ease past Finland - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Finland 81:58

Lithuania opened the international friendly tournament in Druskininkai. The hosts toppled Finland in the opener. Egle Stakneviciene (190-F-85) provided 18 points and 8 rebounds for Lithuania.
Finland and Lithuania exchanged baskets throughout the starting quarter. Finland gained a narrow 21:20 lead after ten minutes. But the second term turned disastrous for the visitors. Lithuania outgunned their opponents 26:8 to grab a 46:29 halftime lead. Lithuania continued their dominance in the second half. The hosts boosted the margin to 24 points at the final break. The home team never looked back afterwards and breezed to the win at the end. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) provided 13 points, while Vaida Sipaviciute (193-C-85, college: Syracuse) netted 12 points in the win. Tina Sten (189-G/F-85, college: St.John's) answered with 17 points for Finland. Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, college: Lamar) had 13 points in defeat.

Lithuania: Egle Stakneviciene 18, Giedre Paugaite 13, Vaida Sipaviciute 12
Finland: Tina Sten 17, Dionne Pounds 13

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FRANCE - Women

French National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

French National Team 2011

Beikes

Bonnan

Cata-Chitiga

Digbeu

Dumerc

Clemence Beikes

178-G-83

Union Hainaut France

Aurelie Bonnan

187-F/C-83

Mondeville France

Ana-Maria Cata-Chitiga

195-C-89

Tarbes

Jennifer Digbeu

190-F/C-87

Bourges

Celine Dumerc

169-G-82

Bourges

Emilie Gomis

180-G/F-83

Villeneuve France

Sandrine Gruda

194-C-87

Connecticut S. USA

Pauline Krawczyk

182-F-85

Tarbes

Marion Laborde

178-F/G-86

Landes

Anael Lardy

170-G-87

Challes

Edwige Lawson-Wade

166-PG-79

S.Antonio SS USA

Florence Lepron

182-F-85

Tarbes

Endene Miyem

188-F-88

Bourges

Emmeline Ndongue

191-C-83

Bourges

Paoline Salagnac

176-G-84

Tarbes

Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui

190-C-86

Ros Casares Spain

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FYR MACEDONIA - Women

Vigor Skopje triumphs in the country - by Eurobasket News
Vigor Skopje triumphs in the country as they swept the Final series 3-0. The winner of the Regular season overcame Klubski 67:55 in the third game. The favorites started with 13-9 and never looked behind after. They produced 21-14 in the second period to take 34:23 halftime advantage. In the third frame the tempo continued to be high for both teams, but the favorites needed another 22-17 to increase the lead to 16 points after 30 minutes. Klubski meanwhile won the last period 15-12 to reduce the gap in the game.
Elena Radenkovik (187-C-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Seton Hill) paced all the winners with 26 points, while Angela Stefanovska (170-G-91) netted 19. Arin Agic (174-G-93) notched 9 and Nena Sekuloska (170-G-87) scored 6. Angelova responded with 18 points in the losing effort.

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GERMANY - Women

German National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Koop

Austmann

Greunke

Glaser

Breitreiner

Lea Mersch

170-G-87

Oberhausen Germany

Dorothea Richter

176-G-83

Donau-Ries Germany

Lisa Koop

197-C-85

Marburg

Sarah Austmann

179-G/F-85

Oberhausen Germany

Svenja Greunke

188-F-89

Rhein MB

Romy Bar

189-F-87

Challes

Tina Menz

174-G/F-88

Leeds Carnegie United Kingdom

Birte Thimm

180-F-87

Oberhausen Germany

Katharina Kuhn

193-C-80

Wasserburg Germany

Petra Glaser

196-F/C-81

Kvarnby

Stephanie Wagner

181-F-90

Rhein MB

Anne Breitreiner

183-G/F-84

Faenza

Samantha Whitcomb and Nevena Saponjic join ChemCats - by Eurobasket News
Samantha Whitcomb (178-G, college: Washington) and Nevena Saponjic (186-C-85) join ChemCats for the upcoming season.
Samantha Whitcomb is an American Guard that spent four years in Washington (NCAA). In her last season there she averaged 13.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 39.7%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 85.8%. The season 2010 she appeared for Chicago Sky (WNBA) but only in pre-season.
Nevena Saponjic is a Serbian Center. In 2005-2006 she appeared in Usce (1A, starting five) and stayed there until year 2008. In 2008-2009 Nevena moved to Hemofarm Stada Vrsac (A League) and in EuroCup had 3.8ppg, 2.2rpg. Last season the player appeared in BCT Alexandria (Romania-D1, starting five) and in 29 games became the third top-scorer with 16.7ppg, Reb-4 (10.0rpg), 1.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.3%, FT: 82.2%.

Lisa Koop and Finja Schaake stay with Marburg - by Eurobasket News
Lisa Koop (197-C-85, college: Winthrop) and Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) stay with Marburg for the next season.
Lisa Koop joined Marburg in 2006-2007. In her latest year she averaged 11.7ppg, 6.7rpg, FGP-1 (60.0%), FT: 71.6%. She recorded 27 points and 18 rebounds in her last game for the team last season. In that game Saarlouis clinched the Bronze medals as they overcame Marburg on aggregate. Marburg celebrated a 4-point win in the second game of the series but it was not enough to prevail. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 25-9.
Finja Schaake started first for Bender Baskets Grunberg (2.Bundesliga, starting five) but in 2009-2010 joined BC Pharmaserv Marburg (DBBL). Last season she averaged 4.0ppg, 1.0apg. In her top game she notched 15 points as Marburg beat Leipzig 85:45 in Regular Season Round 12.
Marburg that won the Regular Season with 19-3 record, could not reach the Final last season and finished only fourth. The team will try to do some changes for good to get the trophy in the upcoming season.

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GREECE - Women

Natalia Ploubi agreed terms with Polish club Lotos Gdynia - by Chris Mammides
The polish club Lotos Gdynia signed for the season 2011-12 for the polish league and Women FIBA Euroleague , the point guard Natali Ploubi (169-G-81) the experienced guard with double passport Greek and Polish will add her experience in the Polish team plus her great organisational skills.
Last season in Greece she played for DASAL Athens BC in the Greek A1 league and she was on the top ranking of the assists with 7.2 per game, averaging 9.4 point per game and she captured 4 rebound per game.

Standings -A2 Women - by Chris Mammides

A2 Standings

Group North
1. Apollon Kal.		17-2
2. Anagenisi		16-3
3. Panathlitikos		14-5
4. Titanes Dramas		14-5
5. MENT		9-10
6. AO Serron		7-12
7. Pylaia		7-12
8. Olympiada L.		5-14
9. Aspis		4-15
10. Lassanis		4-15
11. Olympia L.		2-117
12. Arion Ptolem.		0-19
Group South
1. Asteras		18-1
2. Kronos AD		17-2
3. Aris Holargos		14-5
4. Niki Lefkadas		14-5
5. Terpsithea		11-8
6. Nea Kifisia		10-9
7. Ktisifon P.		9-10
8. Sporting		7-12
9. Voureios AOL		5-14
10. Pagrati		4-10
11. E.A. Paralias		2-17
12. Rethymnou		0-19

Greek International Maltsi joins CCC Polkowice - by Eurobasket News
Greek International Evanthia Maltsi (180-F-78, agency: Josep and Nicolas) joins CCC Polkowice for the upcoming season. The well-known player arrives from ZVVZ USK Praha (Czech Rep.-ZBL, starting five) where she recently enjoyed the title. Evanthia Maltsi and her USK Praha won 2010/2011 Finals! The Greek player contributed a lot into the victory in the series. In Game 3 Praha celebrated 72:62 win to sweep the series. Frisco Sika was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. It was a good game for American forward Delisha Milton-Jones who led her team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds. Her fellow American import guard Lindsay Whalen contributed with 17 points and 4 steals for the winners and Evanthia Maltsi scored 15.
In the opener Evanthia Maltsi nailed 8 points as USK Praha enjoyed the road win 83:73. The game was mostly controlled by USK Praha. Frisco Sika managed to win fourth quarter 22-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening.
Last season in Euroleague Evanthia Maltsi averaged 5.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.0apg, while in Czech Rep. League after 19 games her stats read 9.3ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT-3 (43.9%), FT: 84.6%.

Maltsi in Polkowice - by Chris Mammides
The top Greek guard Evanthia Maltsi (180-F-78) agreed financial terms with the Polish power house CCC Polkowice for the season 2011-2012. Evina will add experience and points in the Polish team. This will be the sixth station abroad for the Greek guard.
This period the Greek guard will start training with the Hellenic NT under Coach Kostas Missas for the upcoming European tournament. Evanthia Maltsi is the second Greek player after Ploubi who signs for a Polish Teams this season

More News
The Greek head Coach Georgios Dikaioulakos join forces with the Turkish Fenerbahce Istanbul and becomes the first Greek head Coach to coach in the Turkish league at all levels. Georgios Dikaioulakos is among the crem de la crem of Coaches in the Women's sector.

The Greek head Coach Giorgos Leivadis is officially the Head Coach of Ravenna Esperides / Glyfada for the upcoming season. Leivadis used to be a head Coach in many teams in lower divisions, the assistant Coach of the team will be Nikos Maniatis

The Greek Head Coach Stavros Nanakos is officially the Head Coach of Panionios Athens

Alexis Daglas renewed his contract with AEO Proteas Voulas in A2 for the next three years.

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JAPAN - Women

Japanese National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Suzuki

Ooba

Emi

Nagaoka

Takada

Ayumi Suzuki

180-C/F-85

Fujitsu

Maki Takada

183-C-89

Denso

Kumiko Ooba

168-G-88

Denso

Sachiko Ishikawa

178-F-78

Conquero

Eriko Hata

181-C-83

Fujitsu

Nagi Yoko

175-F-82

Fujitsu

Kudeken Emi

165-G-84

Toyota A.

Arisa Fujiwara

Reika Takahashi

177-F-88

Airlines

Al Mitani

182-F-78

Fujitsu

Moeko Nagaoka

180-F-93

Maya Kawahara

167-G-87

Toyota A.

Aiko Obaka

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LATVIA - Women

Latvian National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Babkina

Tamane

Basko

Jansone

Putnina

Elina Babkina

173-G-89

L.Angeles S. USA

Sabine Niedola

184-F-91

Nantes

Zane Tamane

200-C-83

Fenerbahce Turkey

Gunta Basko

181-F-80

Wisla Can-Pak Poland

Liene Jansone

191-F/C-81

Comense

Aija Putnina

192-F/C-88

Arras

Ieva Kublina

193-C-82

SEAT Lami

Karline Nimane

188-F-90

TTT Riga

Anete Klintsone

176-G-90

Jefferson CC USA

Zane Jakobsone

180-F-85

TTT Riga

Ieva Veinberga

183-F-84

TTT Riga

Liene Priede

180-G-90

W.Illinois USA

Kristine Karklina

175-G-83

Cadi la Seu Spain

Russian National team survive Baltic thriller - by Eurobasket News
Russia-Latvia 71:69

Russian National team survive Baltic thriller to beat Latvian 71:69 in Karlovy Vary. Russia celebrated the first victory at the four-nation tournament in Czech Republic.
Both teams started strong but paid more attention to defence in the opening period. Latvia managed to take 14-12 lead and then dominated the court in the second frame. The Baltic state added 25-16 for 11-point halftime advantage. The third quarter did not bring any chances as both teams nailed 19 points in the period. The last 10 minutes however belonged to the Russian squad that needed 24-11 in it for the final success. Ilona Korstin (183-G-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) top-scored for the winners with 20 points, while Myasoedova nailed 13. Irina Osipova (196-C/F-81) had 11 points and Elena Danilochkina (185-G-86) netted 9. Gunta Basko (181-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Siena) replied with 16 points in the losing effort, while Elina Babkina (173-G-89, agency: LBM Management) delivered 15.

Russia: Ilona Korstin 20 points, Natalya Myasoedova (193-C-87) 13, Irina Osipova 11, Elena Danilochkina 9
Latvia: Gunta Basko 16, Elina Babkina 15

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LITHUANIA - Women

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MONTENEGRO - Women

Montenegro lost to Croatia in Kepez - by Eurobasket News
Croatia-Montenegro 82:80 OT

Croatia overcame Montenegro in Day 2 of the Kepez tournament in Turkey. The National team of Croatia improved to 1-1 record after 82:80 overtime thriller, while Montenegro fell at 0-2.
Croatia opened the game with 10-5 run and then managed to keep only 14-12 after the first period. Montenegro reduced the gap immediately and after 23-20 in the second frame took 35:34 halftime advantage. Moreover Milka Bjelica (193-F-81) and Jelena Dubjevic helped their team to increase the lead to 5 points after 18-14 in the third quarter. Croatia however needed 22-17 in the last period to tie the game and then grabbed the win due to 12-10 in overtime.
Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) stepped up with 20 points for the winners. Iva Sliskovic (196-F-84, college: S.Carolina) ended up with 17, while Anda Jelavic (175-G-80) scored 12. Milka Bjelica responded with 21 points in the losing case, Jelena Dubljevic collected 19 points and 12 rebounds, while Iva Perovanovic (190-C/F-83) posted 16.

Croatia: Ana Lelas 20, Iva Sliskovic 17, Anda Jelavic 12
Montenegro: Milka Bjelica 21, Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) 19+12 rebs, Iva Perovanovic 16

Montenegrin National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Dubljevic

De Forge

Bjelica

Perovanovic

Turcinovic

Jelena Dubljevic

191-C-87

Tarbes

Anna De Forge

178-G-76

Hondar.-Irun Spain

Milka Bjelica

193-F-81

Wisla Can-Pak Poland

Iva Perovanovic

189-C/F-83

CCC Polkowice Poland

Ana Turcinovic

190-C-93

Merkur Celje Slovenia

Ana Baletic

185-G/F-85

Athinaikos Greece

Snezana Aleksic

173-G-89

Gospic

Eshaya Murphy

182-G/F-85

Chicago S. USA

Milica Jovanovic

189-F/C-89

Umbertide

Maja Milutinovic

176-G-87

Vozdovac

Jelena Skerovic

176-G-80

Frisco Sika Czech Republic

Jelena Culafic

175-G-89

Mladi Krajisnik Bosnia

Marija Vujadinovic

175-G-90

Jedinstvo BP Montenegro

Masa Stanisic

172-G-91

Roling Niksic Montenegro

Neda Nikolic

181-F/C-91

Radivoj Korac Serbia

Sanja Knezevic

188-F/C-84

Jedinstvo BP Montenegro

Biljana Turcinovic

185-F-89

Atomeromu

Natasa Popovic

194-C-82

Jedinstvo BP Montenegro

Kristina Rakovic

182-F/C-94

Jedinstvo BP Montenegro

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NCAA1 - Women

USA U19 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

USA U19 National Team

Adams

Deshields

Dolson

Hartley

Jefferson

Jordan Adams

6'2''-G-94

Irvine, CA

Cierra Burdick

6'2''-F-93

Tennessee

Diamond Deshields

6'1''-G/F-95

Norcross, GA

Stefanie Dolson

6'5''-C-92

Connecticut

Bria Hartley

5'10''-G-92

Connecticut

Mo Jefferson

5'6''-G-94

Glenn Heights, TX

Alexis Jones

5'9''-G-94

Irving, TX

Betnijah Laney

6'0''-G-93

Rutgers

Ariel Massengale

5'6''-G-93

Tennessee

Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis

6'0''-F/G-93

Connecticut

Meighan Simmons

5'9''-G-92

Tennessee

Imani Stafford

6'7''-C-94

Los Angeles, CA

Breanna Stewart

6'3''-F-94

North Syracuse, NY

Morgan Tuck

6'2''-F-94

Bolingbrook, IL

Elizabeth Williams

6'3''-C-93

Duke

Jennifer Rizzotti

Head Coach

Hartford

Sue Semrau

Assistant

Florida St.

Joi Williams

Assistant

Cent.Florida

USA University National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

DelleDonne

Diggins

Gemelos

Hampton

Johnson

Elena DelleDonne

6'5''-G/F-89

University of Delaware

Skylar Diggins

5'9''-G-90

University of Notre Dame

Jacki Gemelos

6'0''-G-88

University of Southern California

Keisha Hampton

6'2''-F-90

De Paul University

Glory Johnson

6'3''-F-90

University of Tennessee

Shenise Johnson

5'11''-G-90

University of Miami, Florida

Lynetta Kizer

6'4''-C-90

University of Maryland

Natalie Novosel

5'11''-G-89

University of Notre Dame

Chiney Ogwumike

6'3''-F-92

Stanford University

Nnemkadi Ogwumike

6'2''-F-90

Stanford University

Devereaux Peters

6'2''-F-89

University of Notre Dame

Odyssey Sims

5'9''-G-92

Baylor University

Shekinna Stricklen

6'2''-G/F-90

University of Tennessee

April Sykes

6'0''-G/F-90

Rutgers, The State University

Bill Fennelly

Head Coach

Iowa State University

Suzie McConnell-Serio

Assistant

University of Duquesne

Terri Williams-Flournoy

Assistant

Georgetown University

<<>><<>>

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POLAND - Women

Lotos Gdynia add Natali Ploubi - by Grzegorz Ozog
The 30-year-old guard Natali Ploubi (169-G-81, agency: OMNIA SPORTS ) 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 7.2 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.

Margo Dydek Passes Away at Age 37 - by Greg
BRISBANE, Australia -- Former WNBA player Malgorzata Dydek (213-C-74) has died after suffering a heart attack a week ago and being placed in a medically induced coma.

Cathy Roberts, the operations manager for the Northside Wizards in the Queensland Basketball League, where Dydek was coach, told The Associated Press that Dydek, 37, died early Friday.

The Poland-born Dydek suffered the heart attack on May 19 and collapsed at her home in Brisbane.

Dydek, who was pregnant with her third child, was the No. 1 pick in the 1998 WNBA draft by the Utah Starzz. She also played for San Antonio, Connecticut and Los Angeles. She is the all-time WNBA leader in total blocks (877) and blocks per game (2.72) and seventh all-time with 2,143 total rebounds.

The 7-foot-2 Dydek once was said to be the tallest professional female basketball player in the world.

Roberts said there was no other information available immediately on Dydek's death and that she was awaiting a statement from the family.

Courtesy of WNBA.com

Polish National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Pietrzak

Pawlak

Szott

Zurowska

Mowlik

Anna Pietrzak

167-PG-87

CCC Polkowice Poland

Paulina Pawlak

170-PG-84

Wisla Can-Pak Poland

Agnieszka Szott

185-F-82

Artego

Justyna Zurowska

188-C-85

Gorzow

Malgorzata Babicka

186-F/C-85

CCC Polkowice Poland

Katarzyna Krezel

184-F/G-85

Wisla Can-Pak Poland

Elzbieta Mowlik

180-F-83

Inea AZS

Agnieszka Skobel

179-F-89

Gorzow

Patrycja Gulak-Lipka

192-C-82

Charleville France

Emilia Tlumak

183-F-82

Energa Torun Poland

Aleksandra Chomac

191-C-85

Lider Pruszkow Poland

Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk

188-F/C-89

Gorzow

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RUSSIA - Women

Russian National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Danilochkina

Myasoedova

Korstin

Osipova

Abrosimova

Olga Arteshina

183-F-82

UMMC

Ekaterina Ruzanova

178-PG-82

Spartak V MR Russia

Marina Kuzina

194-C-85

Spartak V MR Russia

Elena Danilochkina

185-G-86

Chevakata

Natalya Myasoedova

193-C-87

Dynamo-GUVD Russia

Ilona Korstin

183-G-80

Spartak V MR Russia

Maria Stepanova

203-C-79

UMMC

Irina Osipova

196-C/F-81

Spartak V MR Russia

Liudmila Sapova

185-F/C-84

Nadezhda O. Russia

Svetlana Abrosimova

185-F-80

UMMC

Maria Cherepanova

187-C-87

Chevakata

Eugeniya Belyakova

182-G-86

Spartak SP Russia

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SENEGAL - Women

Senegalese Astou Traore lands in El Joventut Mariana - by Eurobasket News
Senegalese Astou Traore (182-F/C-81, agency: Josep and Nicolas) lands in El Joventut Mariana for the upcoming season.
In 2006-2007 she played for ASPTT Charleville-Mezieres (France-NF1) and then moved to Joventud Mariana (Spain-LF2, starting five) where she became the fifth top-scorer with 17.8ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.5spg, 2FGP-3 (45.0%), 3PT: 33.0%,FT-1 (93.0%). In 2008-2009 appeared in Argon Uni Girona (Spain-LF2, starting five) and showed 18.1ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 54.0%, FT: 57.0%, while in 2009-2010 for Argon Uni Girona (Spain-LFB, starting five) had 11.4ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 75.4%. Last season Astou Traore played for Cadi la Seu D'urgell (Spain-LFB, starting five) and after 26 games averaged 14.0ppg, 4.6rpg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 78.2%.
Astou Traore erupted with 28 points and 15 rebounds in the last game for the team when Joventud Mariana defeated Cadi la Seu 98-85. Cadi la Seu was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Joventud Mariana made 18-of-21 free shots (85.7 percent) during the game. Senegalese power forward Astou Traore produced a double-double by scoring 28 points and 15 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field).

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SLOVAKIA - Women

Slovakian National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Slovakian National Team 2011

Jalcova

Kupcikova

Jurcenkova

Lawless

Michulkova

Ivana Jalcova

183-G-83

Dobri Anjeli Slovakia

Lucia Kupcikova

184-F-84

Dobri Anjeli Slovakia

Anna Jurcenkova

195-C-85

Lupa Promot. Croatia

Erin Marie Lawless

188-F-85

Dobri Anjeli Slovakia

Luisa Michulkova

179-G/F-84

Real C.Vigo Spain

Romana Vynuchalova

192-C/F-86

Extrugasa

Regina Palusna

192-C-89

Pecs 2010

Michaela Abelova

183-G-85

Halle

Gabriela Kubatova

171-G-84

Roche

Janka Mincikova

172-PG-89

Cajacanarias Spain

Darina Misurova

163-PG-81

Trutnov

Adriana Gresnerova

179-F-86

MBK Ruzomb. Slovakia

Simona Podesvova

186-F-83

MBK Ruzomb. Slovakia

Klaudia Lukacovicova

193-C-90

MBK Ruzomb. Slovakia

Katarina Tetemondova

188-F-88

MBK Ruzomb. Slovakia

Slavka Frniakova-Bucakova

168-G-79

MBK Ruzomb. Slovakia

Dagmar Chlebovcova

171-G-84

Poprad

Eva Kmetova

188-C-87

Poprad

Andrea Oravcova

182-F/G-87

Poprad

Bronislava Borovickova

170-G-80

Nitra

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SLOVENIA - Women

Slovenian National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Slovenian National Team 2011

Dover

Oblak

Ristic

Erkic

Ilijev

Martina Dover

177-G-86

AJM Maribor Slovenia

Teja Oblak

171-G-90

Hit K.Gora Slovenia

Katarina Ristic

174-G-84

Szolnok

Maja Erkic

183-G/F-85

Familia Schio Italy

Katarina Ilijev

177-F-81

AJM Maribor Slovenia

Lea Jagodic

182-F-91

Merkur Celje Slovenia

Natasa Radulovic

180-G-82

Hit K.Gora Slovenia

Martina Osterman

188-F-88

Hit K.Gora Slovenia

Eva Komplet

182-F/C-86

Hit K.Gora Slovenia

Ana Ljubenovic

182-F/C-88

Triglav

Tina Trebec

189-F/C-90

Hit K.Gora Slovenia

Natasa Vene

186-F/C-84

Ilrija

Urska Cuk

167-G-86

Triglav

Anja Klavzar

177-F-90

Merkur Celje Slovenia

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SPAIN - Women

Spanish National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Dominguez

Montanana

Torrens

Pascua

Cruz

Silvia Dominguez

167-PG-87

Ros Casares Spain

Cindy Lima

194-C-81

Aix-en-Provence France

Elisa Aguilar

177-G-76

Rivas Ecopolis Spain

Anna Montanana

186-F-80

Perfumerias Spain

Alba Torrens

188-F-89

Galatasaray Turkey

Laura Nicholls

189-C-89

Rivas Ecopolis Spain

Lucila Pascua

195-C-83

Perfumerias Spain

Laia Palau

178-G-79

Ros Casares Spain

Maria Pina

187-F-87

Mann Filter Spain

Anna Cruz

173-PG-86

Rivas Ecopolis Spain

Laura Herrera

190-C/F-89

Rivas Ecopolis Spain

Cristina Ouvina

174-G-90

Mann Filter Spain

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TURKEY - Women

The National team of Turkey won the second game in Kepez - by Eurobasket News
Turkey-Great Britain 73:51

The National team of Turkey won the second game of the Kepez tournament. The hosts outscored Great Britain 73:51 for 2-0 record.
The first quarter was tough as both teams exchanged the leads several times. Both of them won the openers of the tournament and looked forward for the second straight win. Turkey managed to finish the period with 14-11 and then added 20-16 in the second frame. In the third period the hosts increased the lead to 11 more points after 20-9 in the third stanza. Moreover Turkey won the last quarter 19-15 to seal the second victory.
Nevin Nevlin (195-C-85, college: Stanford) paced all the winners with 13 points, while Bahar Caglar (188-F-88) and Nilay Kartaltepe Yigit (170-G-79) notched 12 points each. JulieAnne Page (188-F/C-83, college: E.Washington) answered with 11 points in defeat and Chantelle Handy (191-G-87, college: Marshall) scored 8.

Turkey: Nevin Nevlin 13, Bahar Caglar 12, Nilay Kartaltepe Yigit 12
Great Britain: JulieAnne Page 11, Chantelle Handy 8

Turkish National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Nevlin

Caglar

Kartaltepe Yigit

Tuncluer

Palazoglu

Nevin Nevlin

195-C-85

Fenerbahce Turkey

Bahar Caglar

186-F-88

Galatasaray Turkey

Nilay Kartaltepe Yigit

172-G-79

Besiktas

Esmeral Tuncluer

176-G-80

Fenerbahce Turkey

Tugba Palazoglu

171-G-80

Galatasaray Turkey

Birsel Vardarli

174-G-80

Fenerbahce Turkey

Gulsah Gumusay

180-F-89

Galatasaray Turkey

Seda Erdogan

170-F-87

Tarsus Bld Turkey

Yasemin Horasan

187-F/C-83

Besiktas

Ozge Kavurmacioglu

187-F-93

Fenerbahce Turkey

Ozge Yavas

172-G-91

Tarsus Bld Turkey

Mehtap Gezer

191-F-88

Istanbul Univ. Turkey

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UKRAINE - Women

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UNITED KINGDOM - Women

British National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Stafford

Collins

Page

Gandy

Stewart

Natalie Stafford

173-G-76

Norths Bears Australia

Rosalee Mason

180-F/G-79

Solna Vikings Sweden

Stefanie Collins

174-G-82

UWIC Archers United Kingdom

Rachel Vanderwal

176-G-83

UL Aughinish Ireland

Chantelle Handy

191-G-87

MBK Ruzomb. Slovakia

JulieAnne Page

188-F/C-83

Villeneuve France

Kimberly Butler

186-F-82

Ibiza

Stephanie Gandy

178-F-82

Sheffield Hatters United Kingdom

Azania Stewart

193-C-89

Florida

Lauren Thomas-Johnson

178-G-88

Gran Canaria Spain

Tom Maher

Head Coach

Bulleen B. Australia

U18 Women's squad down to 14 - by Eurobasket News
Following last weekend's training camp the England U18 Women squad has been reduced to 14 players - with 13 of these due to travel to Bad Aibling to play two international games against Germany on May 27th and 28th.

'The practice games last weekend were really useful for us to identify the areas the we need to work on. We saw that some players have made a move forwards since we saw the group last' commented Head Coach Michael Ball.

'I would like to thank everyone who helped us pull the weekend together and also to GB Senior Women captain Julie Page, who took the time to speak to the players about what it takes to get to the senior international level.'

Looking forward to the trip to Germany, Ball commented: 'We wanted to play a very strong team early in the preparation phase to give the players a good feel for where we are at and to see which players want to compete at this level. We will have several players in their first international game and others who have not had significant international experience before. This will be the first time this group of players have played together and to get two games against a team that were in Division A two years ago at Under 16 level means we are going to get a tough examination. It is unfortunate that Whitney Allen (162-G-94) cannot attend due to illness, but the rest of the 13 player squad will all get to play at least one game out of the two.'

Name Club Region
Whitney Allen Nottingham Wildcats East Midlands
Lucy Buxton (177-F-93) Doncaster Panthers Yorkshire
Chantel Charles (178-G-94) Barking Abbey London
Lana Doran (168-F-93) Haringey Angels London
Maisie Elston (177-F-93) Sevenoaks Suns South East
Melita Emanuel-Carr Haringey Angels London
Christina Gaskins (185-C-93) Barking Abbey East
Claire Harper (185-F-94) Nottingham Wildcats East Midlands
Rosie Hynes (172-G-93) Barking Abbey London
Kaitlyn Lewis Sevenoaks Suns South East
Ashleigh Munns Sevenoaks Suns South East
Jess Shillito Mansfield Giants East Midlands
Charlene St Marthe Haringey Angels London
Florence Ward (170-G-94) Solent Suns South
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk

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WNBA - Women

Lynx trade Hollingsworth, cut two Minnesota-raised rookies - by Eurobasket News
With their season opener just a week away, the Lynx got their roster down to 11 players, the maximum allowed.

The Lynx traded 6-5 center Quanitra Hollingsworth (6'5''-C-88, college: VCU) to the New York Liberty. The price? Not much -- the right to swap third-round picks in the 2012 WNBA draft. So, at best, the Lynx will have the 25th overall pick that year. Usually third-rounders don't make WNBA rosters.

The Lynx also waived two rookie guards, Angel Robinson (5'8''-G-89, college: Marquette) and Kachine Alexander (5'9''-G-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Iowa). Robinson was obtained in a draft day trade last month with the Liberty who took her in the second round, 22nd overall. The Lynx picked Alexander in the third round, 26th overall.

'They both had solid training camps,' said Roger Griffith, the Lynx executive vice president. 'They both came in and performed well as rookies. There are things we liked about both of them. Cuts usually are hard and this was no exception.

'But in the end run, rookies have things to learn. Both are solid basketball players and if they keep working who knows where they will end up.'

Robinson played high school basketball for St. Paul Central, then attended Marquette. Alexander played for Benilde-St. Margaret's, then went to Iowa.

Robinson was hoping to make the roster as a backup for Lindsay Whalen at point guard or Seimone Augustus at shooting guard. But those two positions may be the team's two strongest.

Candice Wiggins will be Whalen's main backup, Griffith said. Wiggins can also play the No. 2 spot. Three-year veteran Alexis Hornbuckle can back up both spots, too. And the Lynx also have Monica Wright at shooting guard.

Hollingsworth played two seasons for the Lynx after they drafted her with the ninth pick overall in the 2009 draft. She had played for Virginia Commonwealth. She averaged 3.5 points and 2.6 rebounds in 59 games.

'For us, Jessica Adair was winning the battle for that post position,' Griffith said. 'For the role that position will play, she was better suited [than Hollingsworth] and a little more versatile. She can play both [post] positions. She has really improved her game and kept working at it.

'Last year in Indiana, you saw what had happened. She won that spot outright, so we went looking for a spot that would give Q a chance.'

Late last season, center Nicky Anosike (6'3''-C-86, college: Tennessee) left the team with a knee problem and the Lynx signed Adair on Aug. 18. Adair, a training camp cut, had five points and a team-high eight rebounds as the Lynx beat Indiana in overtime in their last game on Aug. 22.

'The roster really took shape long ago in the offseason with the Taj move and the Nicky move,'Griffith said.

The Lynx signed Taj as a free agent on Feb. 18 and later traded Anosike, the team's center the past three seasons, to Washington.

'The No. 1 and 4 picks [Maya Moore and Amber Harris], we knew were probably going to be on the team,' Griffith said. 'The second and third-round picks were longshots even before we have their names.'

As for Q, Griffith said, when teams pick near the bottom of the first round, those picks don't necessarily excel.

'Did we hope for more from [Hollingsworth]?' Griffith said. 'Ya, we did. But that did not work out.'

So here is how the Lynx roster shapes up:

Centers: 6-2 Taj McWilliams-Franklin, 6-4 Jessica Adair

Forwards: 6-0 Maya Moore, 6-2 Rebecca Brunson, 6-5 Amber Harris, 6-0 Charde Houston

Guard: 6-0 Seimone Augustus, 5-9 Lindsay Whalen, 5-9 Candice Wiggins, 5-10 Monica Wright, 5-11 Alexis Hornbuckle

Rookies: Moore, Harris

1-year veterans: Wright, Adair

3-year: Wiggins, Houston, Hornbuckle

5-year: Augustus

7-year: Whalen, Brunson

12-year: McWilliams-Franklin

Total years of WNBA experience: 40, or average of 3.6 years per player skewed by McWilliams-Franklin's long career.

Team averages just under 6-1.

The Lynx players had Friday off, but had practices scheduled the next three days before their exhibition at the Indiana Fever on Tuesday.

Players on Friday had the option of working out on their own and watching film.
Courtesy of: www.startribune.com

Kelly Millers big third quarter is key to Mystics win over the Chicago Sky - by Eurobasket News
When the Washington Mystics took the court at the beginning of the second half against the Chicago Sky, they were clinging to a one-point lead in a game that had already seen five lead changes.

That was when Kelly Miller (5'10''-G-78, college: Georgia) stepped in to give her team some breathing room, drilling a 3-pointer to extend the Mystics lead to 38-34.

Both teams struggled to find their rhythm on offense for much of the third quarter, but Chicago trailed by just two when timeout was called with 3:48 to play in the period. Then Miller stepped in again, knocking down her second 3.

But it wasnt only her long-range shooting that helped the Mystics separate in the final minutes of the third quarter. When she was fouled on Washingtons next offensive possession, Miller made all three free throw attempts, giving her team an eight-point advantage and effectively sealing the win. After Crystal Langhorne made a long field goal to increase the lead to 50-40, Chicago never came within nine points, eventually falling 66-55.

Miller finished the afternoon with 12 points to match her total from the Mystics first preseason game. Langhorne led all scorers with 15. But the two players combined for 14 trips to the line. The free throw attempts were particularly disruptive for Chicago.

Foul a 3-point shooter and they shoot three free throws, and another thing about it is that you cant get into rhythm, Sky coach Pokey Chatman said. The clock is stopping every minute and a half, theres no rhythm, you cant get transition baskets. We have some goals in terms of transitions, but its difficult to run when youre taking the ball out of the net because they shot 27 free throws.

Alana Beard (5'11''-G/F-82, college: Duke) played in her second game since returning from an injury that sidelined her for all of 2010 and was one of two Washington players who did not score a point in this game. Even though she went 0-for-7 from the field, Beard found other ways to contribute, collecting four rebounds and two assists in nearly 24 minutes of play.

Chicagos Sylvia Fowles, who led her team with six rebounds and scored 10 points, credited the Sky defense with shutting Beard down.

She got some good looks early. But thats the game, Fowles said. I think our defense picked up. Alanas going to get her points. I think the biggest thing is just to play team defense. Once you do that as a team, itll eliminate those options.

Mystics coach Trudi Lacey was not worried about Beards play, calling the entire offense a work in progress.

Im not concerned at all, Lacey said. We knew that it would take her some time to get her timing back. Shes almost like a new player, in that the players that were here last year didnt have an opportunity to play with her.

Beard echoed her coachs words, acknowledging that it would take time for her to return to form and learn to play with her teammates.

I have to trust in the process, she said. I cant expect to jump right in and be where I left off.
Courtesy of: www.washingtontimes.com