EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/14/2011

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Men News

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


U16 Afrobasket: Nigeria draw Egypt, Algeria, Mozambique - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria U16 Men and Women national teams has been drawn in the Group-A ahead the 2011 edition of the Africa cadet championship holding in Egypt from July 8 through 17 and July 22-31.

The Nigerian Men side coached by the trio of Coaches Ayinla Johnson, Sani Turi and Abdulrahman Mohammed will have host Egypt, Algeria, Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique to contend with when hostilities began.

The Nigerian U16 side will look to better its third place finish in the 2009 edition of championship held in Maputo, Mozambique with team Head Coach Johnson combing the nooks and cranies of Nigeria for quality young talents.

Coaches Johnson and Mohammed were at different times captain of the Nigeria senior mens team DTigers with Johnson captaining DTigers in 1997 and 1998 Mohammed on the other hand was captain of DTigers to the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Australia, the task to help mould a future team rest on their shoulders.

Group-B of the Cadet Afrobasket for Men comprises; Mali, Congo, South Africa, Angola, Libya and Tunisia.

Nigeria also draw Egypt in the Women version of the continent Cadet championship in Group-A.

Other countries in Group-A for the championship that will run from July 22 to 31 includes; Guinea, Algeria and Mozambique while Group-B is made-up of Mali, Zimbabwe, Democratic Republic of Congo Angola and Tunisia.


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  ARGENTINA   


U19 National team - by Facundo Iatzky
CABB released the list of 12 players who will play yhe U19 world championship in Lietuva. The list had one change of last time, because Matias Bortolin suffered an injury and had to be replaced by Fernando Podesta (204-C-92).

4 Tayavek Gallizzi (202-F-93) of Quilmes mar del plata
5 Luciano Massarelli (178-G-93) of Ramos Mejia
6 Emiliano Basabe (190-G-92) of Alma jrs
7 Franco Giorgetti (200-F-92) of Penarol
8 Nicolas Copello (193-G-92) of Boca jrs
9 Juan Giaveno (175-G-92) of 9 de julio
10 Carlos Paredes (201-F/G-92) of Monte Hermoso
11 Pablo Perez (202-F-92) of Sionista
12 Marcos Delia (207-C-92) of Boca jrs
13 Lucas Diaz (198-F-92) of Libertad sunchales
14 Fernando Podesta of Velez sarsfield
15 Patricio Garino (196-G/F-93) of Montverde high school (USA)

Head coach: Enrique Tolcachier

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  AUSTRALIA   


SEABL: Chargers aim their stun gun - by Eurobasket News
RECENT form and ladder positions will count for nothing when Hobart squares off against arch enemy North West Thunder in a blockbuster local derby at Aurora Sports Stadium tonight.

Regardless of the form line of the two teams, there is always added incentive and fireworks when tip-off arrives and it will be no different as both attempt to resurrect their seasons.

The Chargers are teetering with a 5-8 record and desperately need to start stringing wins together, while the Thunder started 4-1 but then dropped six straight before defeating Albury-Wodonga last weekend.

After going down to the Thunder earlier in the season, Chargers skipper Mark Nash said revenge is firmly on the minds of the southern team.

'The rivalry goes back a way, I think it's healthy for basketball in the state,' Nash said. 'Two Tasmanian teams in a national competition really brings out the best in Tasmanian sport.

'The Thunder got off to a great start this year and we are trying to get back on track. There is a lot at stake and I'm sure it will be a regular Chargers-Thunder encounter.

'You shouldn't need any extra incentive to find a bit extra but because they're the only two teams in the state, that rivalry has been going on for such a long time and it means so much.'

Last week, veteran Corey Davie made his first appearance after overcoming injury while boom youngster Hugh Greenwood (190-PG-92) is expected to return tonight after missing the last four matches.

Nash also defended the form of imports Derick Nelson (196-F-86, agency: ACMT, college: Oakland) and Greg Dilligard, who are slowly adjusting to the standard of the SEABL competition.

'The reality is it is a very tough league and bringing in new players it always takes time to adjust,' Nash said.

'Playing as an import in professional basketball, anywhere in the world, there is certainly a lot of expectation and it adds some pressure.'

The local derby in the women's competition could also provide the Lady Chargers with a fairytale breakthrough win on their home court.

Having pushed Launceston in the opening round the women are quietly confident they can cause a boilover against their more fancied rivals, and finally treat home fans to a maiden victory.

'If we can put the same defensive pressure on Launceston as we have been putting out on the court in the last three or four weeks, then we should be able to walk away with a good result,' skipper Myra Donkin said. 'We've gelled together and we are really starting to work well together as unit.'
Courtesy of: themercury.com.au

Ballarat's basketball imports on a mission - by Eurobasket News
BALLARATS American imports are determined to guide the Miners and Rush into the South East Australian Basketball League play-offs.
Ivan Harris (201-F-84, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: Ohio St.), Nick Aldridge (201-C/F-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Mountain St.) and Chloe Kerr know expectations are high for the Miners and Rush to be part of the post-season.

They know they have been recruited to lead Ballarat into the finals.

Kerr, 26, and Harris, 27, have European playing credentials but for Aldridge, Australia is his first venture on court outside the United States.

All three are confident their best is yet to come as they continue to adjust to the Australian game.

For Harris, this also means mentoring his younger teammates, who he says are starting to really lift.

Im one of the oldest on the team and Im only 27 but for Nick its his first year out of college and hes still stepping up while a lot of younger players look up to both of us, Harris said.

Others are starting to step up now and making their place.

When Im getting double-tagged now you know that guys like Shaun Bruce, Dan Joyce and Barnesy (Ryan Barnes) are stepping up and scoring.

We need that.

It is similar for Kerr, who joined Rush from the States early last month.

Rush added New Zealand import and Olympian Natalie Taylor to the roster last month, which Kerr said had helped strengthen the team.

You offer feedback and help build confidence of young players to step up into roles, Kerr said.

Natalie is in the New Zealand national team and brings a lot of experience and vocal leadership on court, which is great.

Kerr said the Australian womens game tended to be more physical than what she was used to on-court.

All three agreed referee interpretation was the biggest difference in the game to other nations.

For Aldridge, this has meant a big adjustment to his game his instinctive signature move in Australia is pulled up for travel.

Ive had to cut out my spin-move all together, Aldridge said.

Last game I did it and I realised as soon as I started. I just turned to the coach and apologised. I just forgot.

The trio has been quickly adopted by the Ballarat faithful. Harris, renowned for his three-point prowess, has a personalised fan-base that now sports T-shirts spelling out the letters in his name.

He likes to give them handshakes and point them out when he nails a three-pointer.

Harris said fans had sported signs with his nickname microwave he gets instantly hot and creates pressure on court but has never had T-shirts before.

Aldridge said Australian crowds tended to be more polite than American college supporters but the Minerdome had loyal supporters, who had stuck with the team all season.

Off the court, the trio said they have enjoyed adjusting to the laid-back Australian lifestyle.

Aldridge, who like Harris hails from Ohio, said it helped moving to a regional town.

This is my first job out of college and it seemed like the perfect place to start, he said.

There is no language barrier, just the accent sometimes and Australian slang which I dont always understand, so its been pretty easy to adjust.

Kerr, also from the midwest, said there were lots of similarities to America in food and culture, especially compared to her time playing in Greece, Slovakia and Spain.

Australian humour and sarcasm have taken her a little longer to get used to.

A giant spider in her car on her first day in the country also had Kerr worried early.

The trio looked forward to getting back on court this weekend in Nunawading and hoped to do their adopted town proud.
Courtesy of: thecourier.com.au

*****************************************************
  BELGIUM   


Oostende Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Telenet Oostende has added 2 more players to their roster for the 2011-2012 season. The first being Serbian PG Dusan Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83) who most recently won the FIBA Eurochallenge with Novo Mesto. His team also won the Slovenian Championship this season. The contract runs for one season with an option for a second season.
Between 2003 and 2005 he played for the following teams Lokomotiv Rostov, Spartak St Petersburg and Iraklis Thesaloniki. Between 2005 and 2008 he played for Vojvodina Novi Sad. Played for Bosna Sarajevo in the Adriatic league during the 2008-2009 season. Played Euroleague, Adriatic league and the Slovenian league with Olimpija Llublina in 2009-2010.
Best statistical season in 2010-2011 was his play in the EuroChallenge where in 16 games he averaged 9.6 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 3.2 apg.

The second signee will be the 11th or 12th man on the roster and will also play for Oostende's D2 team Gistel. He is a Belgian center with Morrocan roots, called Khalid Boukichou.



*****************************************************
  BOSNIA   


Goran Ikonic wins another trophy with Krka - by Eurobasket News
Goran Ikonic (196-G-80, agency: Beo Basket) finished wonderful season with Krka this weekend. The Bosnian scoring machine and Krka defended Slovenian league title, what is their third trophy this season. They already celebrated in Slovenian Cup and EuroChallenge. In the Slovenian league Finals, Krka was better than Union Olimpija with 3-2. They celebrated 64-57 win in crucial Game Five to defend the title.
Goran Ikonic joined Krka Novo Mesto in January. He appeared 20 times in Slovenian league averaging 10 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists. In EuroChallenge, Ikonic added 13.6 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.9 assists for 17 games. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-EuroChallenge Player of the Year -11. Ikonic also had 10.7 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 1.5 apg for 27 games in Adriatic league. He will play for Turkish Karsiyaka next season.

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  BRAZIL   


Thiago Guilherme Named Daktronics-NAIA Division I Scholar-Athlete - by Paulo Freire
Northwestern Oklahoma State University junior forward Thiago Guilherme has been honored by the NAIA as a 2010-11 Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete. Guilherme was one of 59 student-athletes in NAIA Division I mens basketball to be recognized with the honor.

Thiago Oliveira (196-F-87) takes basketball and school with a very serious attitude and does not settle for being average, remarked head coach Andrew Brown. It is a great achievement to be above a 3.5 in a very challenging business program.

Guilherme, a two-year player for the Rangers from Bauru, Brazil, was also named to the Sooner Athletic Conference Academic Team.

In order to be nominated by an institution's head coach, a student-athlete must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and must have achieved a junior academic status to qualify for this honor.

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  BULGARIA   


Willie Deane helps Nancy to win the title in France - by Eurobasket News
American/Bulgarian guard Willie Deane (186-G-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Purdue) won the title in France with his Nancy. Dean and his teammates grabbed 76-74 thriller win against Cholet in the Big Final, which was played at the Bercy arena on Saturday. Dean helped Nancy with 10 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists in this meeting. He appeared 32 times this season in ProA averaging 10.6 points, 2.3 rebounds and 4.3 blocks. In EuroChallenge, his digits were even better. Dean registered 14.7 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 2.7 apg for 6 appearances. Willie Deane received Bulgarian citizenship in May of 2010.
The Big Final was tied at 74-74, when John Linehan made a basket for Nancy with 3 seconds to go. The defending champion was unable to score in their last possession and they stayed without the trophy this season. Nancy won the title also in 2008. Nancy took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 24-20. But Cholet won second period 22-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. As mentioned above, the game was decided in the finish and Linehan was a hero. He was also named MVP of the Big Final. Nancy made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. Strangely Cholet outrebounded Sluc Nancy 41-28 including a 16-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Sluc Nancy especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. American guard John Linehan stepped up and scored 15 points and 4 assists for the winners and naturalized Cameroonian forward Victor Samnick chipped in 15 points. Five Sluc Nancy players scored in double figures. At the losing side Dominican guard Sammy Mejia responded with 15 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws) and American guard DeMarcus Nelson scored 15 points. Cholet's coach Erman Kunter rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Nancy was No.2 in regular season with 21-9 record. They eliminated Hyeres-Toulon in the Quarterfinals (2-1) and ASVEL in the Semis (2-1).

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  CBL   


Standings
CBL Standings
 1. Cary I. 9-0 
 2. Birmingham S. 5-2 
 3. Heartland P. 4-3 
 4. Gainesville G. 4-5 
 5. Florida Flight 3-6 
 6. Fayetteville C. 2-4 
 7. Wilmington SD 2-6 
 8. Miami Stars 0-0 
 9. Port City 0-3 


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  CHILE   


Standings - LIBSUR
LIBSUR Standings
North Group
 1. Victoria 8-2 
 2. CD Valdiva 6-2 
 3. AB Temuco 6-3 
 4. CD Las Animas 5-3 
 5. CD Carahue 4-4 
 6. CD Imperial 2-7 
 7. Lautaro 0-10 
South Group
 1. CD Castro 10-1 
 2. AB Ancud 10-1 
 3. U.Los Lagos 6-4 
 4. CD Puerto Varas 5-5 
 5. CB Osorno 4-7 
 6. Aleman 3-7 
 7. CD Puerto Montt 3-9 
 8. Espanol O. 2-9 


*****************************************************
  CROATIA   


All-Stars cruise past Croatia U19 - by Eurobasket News
Eurocamp All-Stars - Croatia U19 103:74

Eurocamp All-Stars celebrated a convincing victory over Croatian U19 National Team on the final day of Adidas Eurocamp in Treviso. Edwin Jackson (191-G-89), David Jelinek (194-G-90) and Augusto Cesar Lima (206-C-91) stepped up with 18 points each to pace All-Stars.
The teams got to a flying start. They scored eagerly throughout the opening frame. Eurocamp All-Stars posted a 28:24 lead after ten minutes. All-Stars stepped on the gas in the second period. They erupted for 30 points in the second term to clear off to a 19-point lead at halftime 58:39. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term. All-Stars ensured a 19-point advantage with one quarter remaining. All-Stars outscored Croatia in the fourth frame and celebrated a comprehensive win at the end. Mindaugas Kuzminskas (205-F-89) provided 15 points in the victory. Boris Barac (205-F-92) answered with 13 points for Croatia. Toni Katic (185-G-92) and Vukocic chipped in 10 points each in the loss.

Eurocamp All-Stars: Edwin Jackson 18, David Jelinek 18, Augusto Cesar Lima 18
Croatia U19: Boris Barac 13, Toni Katic 10, Vukocic 10


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Shocker: Novy Jicin is Finished in the NBL! - by Surujh Roopnarine
Longstanding members of the Mattoni NBL, Mlekarna Miltra Novy Jicin have ended their run and will not play next season. Fundamentally the decision was made due to a lack of funding as the club has searched in vain for nearly two seasons to secure a stable general sponsor / promotional partner. The club, which finished in fourth position this season after finding funding to bring back import Corey Muirhead (198-F-83, college: W.Carolina), veteran forward Robert Sarovic (205-F-78) as well as adding talent such as guard Wesley Channels (190-G-88, college: Austin Peay St.). The teams website states that the club will continue to search for funding in hopes of returning to the NBL for the 2012-13 season and will continue to field its youth and young men's teams in the interim. During their 19 year stay the team claimed one NBL title (2000), eight second place finishes and four times in third. They also captured five Czech Cup crowns and were the winners of last years Central League.

2010-2011 Statistical Leaders

Scoring: Corey Muirhead (13.0ppg)

Rebounds: Robert Sarovic (5.1rpg)

Assists: Wesley Channels (2.7apg)

Steals: Wesley Channels (1.4spg)

2FGP: Ondrej Soska (59.7%)

3FGP: Ludek Jurecka (43.9%)

FTP: Ludek Jurecka (90.0%)

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  DENMARK   


Anton Elsner returns to Denmark - by Eurobasket News
Anton Elsner (186-G-90) is coming back to Denmark. The 21-year-old guard has agreed on terms of contract with Aabyhoj. He played for the team in 2008/10. In 2009/10 season the guard notched 8.1 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game for Aabyhoj. Anton Elsner then moved to the USA. He joined Clinton Community College and played in JUCO. Anton Elsner also played for Danish U18 and U20 National Teams. The guard participated at 2010 European Championship U20 in Austria. His stats read 4.0 points and 2.1 rebounds per game at the tournament. Anton Elsner also played at U18 European Championship in Hungary in 2008.


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Efes Pilsen keeps Guler through 2013 - by Eurobasket News
Among the teams confirming players for next season the fastest, Efes Pilsen on Monday announced a new two-year agreement with guard Sinan Guler (193-G-83, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Carroll, MT), who has already been with the club three seasons. Guler (1.92 meters, 27 years old) is coming off his best Turkish Airlines Euroleague season so far, having averaged 3.9 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1 steal in just 15 minutes per game off the bench. Guler made 55.9% of his two-point shots, the second-highest accuracy rate among Efes regulars, and he tied for eighth among all Euroleague players with 2.4 steals per 40 minutes. Guler had previously played for Besiktas and Darussafaka, both of Istanbul, before joining Efes, with whome he won the 2009 Turkish League and national cup crowns. Last summer, Guler won the silver medal at the 2010 World Championships with the Turkish national team.

Courtesy of Euroleague

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  FIBA AMERICAS U16   


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Canada0-0
2. Guatemala0-0
3. Mexico0-0
4. P.Rico0-0
Group B
1. Argentina0-0
2. Brazil0-0
3. USA0-0
4. Venezuela0-0


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  FRANCE   


French U18 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Romane Bernies 170-G-93 Bourges France
Clarisse Berranger 186-F-93 Bourges France
Sara Chevaugeon 177-G-93 Challes France
Jodie Cornelie 193-F-93 CFBB France
Nina Deal 180-G-93 Bourges France
Christelle Diallo 193-C-93 Bourges France
Rudiane Eduardo 183-F-93 Villeneuve France
Olivia Epoupa 165-G-94 CFBB France
Axelle Koundouno 181-F-94 CFBB France
Samira Leandre 193-G-93 Tarbes France
Marie Mbuyamba 185-C-93 Mondeville France
Laure Mercier 164-G-93 CFBB France
Caroline Misset 173-F-93 Reims France
Alice Nayo 186-C-93 Villeneuve France
Onayssa Sbahi 168-G-93 Villeneuve France
Awa Sissoko 178-G-94 Mondeville France
Claire Stievenard 183-F/G-93 CFBB France
Mamignan Toure 179-G-94

Arnaud Guppillotte Head Coach
Arnaud Brogniet Assistant
Fabien Frydryszak Assistant


Ian Mahinmi and Rodrigue Beaubois win NBA ring - by Eurobasket News
Two French players Ian Mahinmi (206-F/C-86) and Rodrigue Beaubois (186-G-88, agency: Court Side) won the NBA ring last night with their team Dallas Mavericks. The Mavs grabbed the title after 95-105 victory in Miami in Game Six. It means that Dallas won the Finals with 4-2 and it is their first NBA title ever. Mehinmi got 11 minutes in this meeting and he had 4 points and 3 rebounds.
Ian Mahinmi joined Dallas last summer from the San Antonio Spurs. He appeared 59 times for the new NBA champs averaging 3.1 points and 2.1 rebounds.
Rodrigue Beaubois arrived to Dallas in 2009 from Cholet. He played 28 NBA games this season registering 8.4 points, 1.9 rebounds and 2.3 assists.
Dallas finished regular season with 57-25 record. They eliminated Portland (4-2) in the Western Conference Quarterfinals and after that Dallas swept the defending champions LA Lakers in the Semifinals (4-0). In the Western Conference Finals, Dallas edged OC Thunder with almost perfect 4-1.


Here is the full game report of Game Six:

Finals Game 6: Miami Heat - Dallas M. 95-105 (27-32, 24-21, 21-28, 23-24)

Date: June 12, 2011
For Dirk Nowitzki, the resume is complete. He's an NBA champion. For LeBron James, the agonizing wait continues for at least one more year. Avenging what happened five years ago in perfect turnabout style, the Dallas Mavericks won their first NBA title by winning Game 6 of these finals in Miami 105-95 on Sunday night - celebrating on the Heat's home floor, just as Dwyane Wade and his team did to them in the 2006 title series. Jason Terry scored 27 points, Nowitzki added 21 and the Mavericks topped the Miami Heat 105-95 in Game 6 of the NBA finals on Sunday night. The Mavericks won four of the series' last five games, a turnabout that could not have been sweeter after seeing the Heat celebrate their first title in Dallas after Game 6 of the 2006 finals. 'Tonight,' Terry said, 'we got vindication.' James did not. Not even close, and a year unlike any other ended they way they all have so far - with him still waiting for an NBA title. He scored 21 points for Miami, shook a few hands afterward, and departed before most of the Mavs tugged on their championship hats and T-shirts. Chris Bosh had 19, Mario Chalmers 18 and Dwyane Wade 17 for the Heat. Mavs coach Rick Carlisle joined a highly elite group, those with NBA titles as both a player and a head coach. Only 10 other men are on that list, including the presumably retired-for-good Phil Jackson, one of Carlisle's mentors in K.C. Jones, and Heat President Pat Riley - who led Miami past Dallas in 2006, and was the mastermind of what the Heat did last summer by getting James, Wade and Bosh on the same team with an eye on becoming a dynasty. It might still happen, of course. But even after 72 wins this season, including playoffs, the Heat lost the last game. And that means this year was a disappointment - except to just about everyone else in the NBA, or so it would seem. Hating the Heat became the NBA's craze this season, and the team knew it had no shortage of critics, everyone from Cleveland (where 'Cavs for Mavs' shirts were popular during these finals) to Chicago (the city James and Wade both flirted with last summer) and just about every place in between lining up to take shots at Miami. Given their newfound popularity, meet the new America's Team. Sorry, Cowboys - your long-held moniker might have to be ceded to your city's NBA club. When it was over, Mavs owner Mark Cuban ran onto the court to hug Carlisle, then punched the air and whooped. Dallas took control in the second half after some wild back-and-forths in the opening two quarters. Miami took its last lead of the game - the season - just 64 seconds into the second half, lost it 16 seconds later and chased the Mavericks the rest of the way. They never caught them. Jason Kidd, at 38 years old, got his first championship. Nowitzki got his at 32, Terry at 33. They were featured on the video screen in their building in Dallas during this series on what seemed like a constant loop, each posing with the NBA trophy and looking longingly at it, standing mere inches from it, as if to say 'so close, yet so far away.' No more. It's theirs. Nowitzki sealed it with 2:27 left, hitting a jumper near the Miami bench to put Dallas up 99-89, and some fans actually began leaving. Nowitzki walked to the Mavs' side slowly, right fist clenched and aloft. He knew it. Everyone did. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra implored his team to foul in the final minute, and even then, they couldn't catch the Mavericks. 'All those unique individual stories is what propelled us to this victory,' Terry said. Dallas expected a big early push from Miami, and the Mavs' suspicions were proved correct. James made his first four shots, and the Heat raced out to a 20-11 lead. It was erased - and then some - quickly, as soon as Dallas went to the zone defense that befuddled Miami again. Dallas needed 5 1/2 minutes to rip off a 21-4 run, making 9 of 12 shots during the stretch. And much of that came with Nowitzki on the bench with two fouls, the first time he's been whistled for more than one in the opening quarter of a playoff game this season. The Mavs were off and running. DeShawn Stevenson made a pair of 3-pointers within a span of 24 seconds to give Dallas a 40-28 lead with 9:42 left in the half. Dallas turned Miami's first six turnovers into 14 points, and the hundreds of blue-clad Mavs fans stood and roared, with Cuban waving his arms as if to lead the cheers from behind his team's bench. Things turned quickly and got heated for good measure. Miami scored the next 14 points to reclaim the lead at 42-40, a streak snapped only after Stevenson, Udonis Haslem and Chalmers got technicals with 6:25 left in the half after a midcourt mini-melee with mostly amounted to some words and a couple of shoves. 'A player will not automatically be suspended for leaving the bench if he has already left the bench because a timeout was called,' the NBA announced later in the game. 'However, we need to review the circumstances of this particular incident, which we will do, after the game.' So the NBA will watch replays. The Heat, they probably won't - not for a long while. They had chances to take command and wasted them all. The Heat missed 13 of their 33 free throws, let the Mavericks score 27 points off turnovers and simply could not get a rebound in the final minutes. Nowitzki finished 9 for 27, and the Mavs still won. He was 1 for 12 in the first half, and they were still ahead, 53-51, thanks largely to Terry's 19 points on 8-of-10 shooting, along with a 17-4 edge in points off turnovers. Plus, after James got off to such a fast start, he had two points in the final 19-plus minutes of the half. James didn't score in the second half until a layup with 1:49 remained in the third - his first field-goal attempt since 1:05 remained in the half. Kidd made a 3-pointer late in the period, pushing the Dallas lead to 79-71, and it seemed like the only people standing in the arena were the players, referees, Cuban and a few guys around the Dallas bench. It was 81-72 entering the fourth, after Ian Mahinmi made a foul-line jumper as time expired in the third, just his third basket of the entire series. None were bigger. The Mavs could taste a title. When the Mavericks took a 2-0 lead in Dallas during the '06 finals, plans for their victory parade were announced. The Mavs didn't win another game in that series. Now, that parade will finally happen. And when it's over, then the league's uncertainty will truly begin. Labor strife likely awaits, and although more talks geared toward movement on a new deal are scheduled for this week, both owners and players are bracing for a lockout to begin once the current collective bargaining agreement expires June 30. What happens with the next deal may affect the Heat more than anyone. Some owners will insist on a hard cap, rolled-back salaries and, potentially, trying to bust some current deals - which could break up the Big 3 before get another chance to win a title together. A gloomy end to the season may bring an even gloomier offseason for Miami. 'Every situation has felt like it was an our-back-against-the-wall situation,' James said Sunday morning, hours before Game 6 began. 'We've been able to figure it out and find our way through and scratch our way through. This is the last test. This is the last pop quiz for us that we need to pass in order to make it all worth it.' They didn't pass. So therefore, it wasn't all worth it. Except, of course, from the Dallas perspective. Of the principal characters from the 2006 series, only Cuban, Nowitzki and Terry remain from the Mavericks' side, and for them, the beginning of this championship celebration seemed sweeter than even they could have imagined. Terry won't have to get his tattoo - the one of the NBA championship trophy - removed, which he vowed to have done if Miami won this series. Nowitzki will never be in the conversation of 'Best player without a title' again. James is clearly the one with that most-unwanted label now. *Courtesy of www.chron.com




Lille signs Aurelien Rigaux, Julien Sauret and Moussa Camara - by Eurobasket News
Lille Metropole Basket announced signing of three new players for the next season. The French team landed Aurelien Rigaux (179-G-88), Julien Sauret (184-G-81) and Moussa Camara (195-F-87).
Aurelien Rigaux arrives to Lille from Quimper UJAP. He appeared 33 times in ProB last season averaging 6.5 points, 2.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists. Before Quimper, Rigaux played two years for Angers BC 49.
Julien Sauret spent last season with Denain ASC Voltaire. He had 11.1 ppg, 3 rpg and 4.2 apg for 32 games. In the past, he played for St Etienne, Antibes and Boulazac.
Moussa Camara signed his first professional deal. He graduated few months ago at the Binghamton University. For 31 games as a senior Camara had 11.2 pg and 2.5 rpg.

Sammy Meija - the best player in France 2010-11 - by Eurobasket
All-ProA 1st Team 2010-11
#s#
Sammy Mejia
Mejia
Blake Schilb
Schilb
Tremmell Darden
Darden
Davon Jefferson
Jefferson
Rick Hughes
Hughes
#e#5

Player of the Year: Sammy Mejia (198-G-83) of Cholet
Guard of the Year: Sammy Mejia (198-G-83) of Cholet
Forward of the Year: Davon Jefferson (203-F-86) of ASVEL
Center of the Year: Rick Hughes (204-C/F-73) of Hyeres-Toulon
Newcomer of the Year: Evan Fournier (200-G/F-92) of Poitierarleys
Domestic Player of the Year: Yannick Bokolo (191-G-85) of Gravelines
Import Player of the Year: Sammy Mejia (198-G-83) of Cholet
Bosman Player of the Year: Damir Krupalija (205-F/C-79) of Hyeres-Toulon
Defensive Player of the Year: John Linehan (175-G-78) of Nancy
Coach of the Year: Jean-Luc Monschau of Nancy

1st Team
G: Sammy Mejia (198-83) of Cholet
G: Blake Schilb (201-83) of Chalon
G/F: Tremmell Darden (194-81) of Nancy
F: Davon Jefferson (203-86) of ASVEL
C/F: Rick Hughes (204-73) of Hyeres-Toulon

2nd Team
G: Yannick Bokolo (191-85) of Gravelines
F: Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-83) of ASVEL
F: Akinlolu Akingbala (208-83) of Nancy
F: Antywane Robinson (203-84) of Cholet
F/C: Damir Krupalija (205-79) of Hyeres-Toulon

3rd Team
G: Teddy Gipson (193-80) of Pau-Lacq-Orthez
F: Cyril Akpomedah (203-79) of Gravelines
F: Mickael Gelabale (201-83) of ASVEL
F/C: Uche Nsonwu-Amadi (208-78) of Roanne
F/C: Christophe Massie (206-77) of Limoges

Honorable Mention
John Linehan (175-G-78) of Nancy
Marquez Haynes (191-G-86) of Chalon
Alain Koffi (207-C-83) of Le Mans
Andrew Albicy (178-G-90) of Paris-Levallois
Lamont Hamilton (208-F-84) of Paris-Levallois
Mouhamed Sene (213-C-86) of Gravelines
Dounia Issa (198-F-81) of Gravelines
Demetris Nichols (205-F-84) of Vichy

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Yannick Bokolo (191-85) of Gravelines
G: Andrew Albicy (178-90) of Paris-Levallois
F: Cyril Akpomedah (203-79) of Gravelines
F: Mickael Gelabale (201-83) of ASVEL
C: Alain Koffi (207-83) of Le Mans

All-Imports Team
G: Sammy Mejia (198-83) of Cholet
G: Blake Schilb (201-83) of Chalon
G/F: Tremmell Darden (194-81) of Nancy
F: Davon Jefferson (203-86) of ASVEL
C/F: Rick Hughes (204-73) of Hyeres-Toulon

All-Bosmans Team
G: Willie Deane (186-80) of Nancy
G: Vule Avdalovic (189-81) of Cholet
F: Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-83) of ASVEL
F: John McCord (201-73) of Strasbourg
F/C: Damir Krupalija (205-79) of Hyeres-Toulon

All-Defensive Team
John Linehan (175-G-78) of Nancy
Yannick Bokolo (191-G-85) of Gravelines
Blake Schilb (201-G-83) of Chalon
Luc-Arthur Vebobe (203-F-80) of Cholet
Dounia Issa (198-F-81) of Gravelines

All-Newcomers Team
Evan Fournier (200-G/F-92) of Poitierarleys
Leo Westermann (198-G-92) of ASVEL
Luc-Arthur Vebobe (203-F-80) of Cholet
Kim Tillie (211-F-88) of ASVEL



Eurobasket.com All-French NM1 Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket
All-French NM1 1st Team 2010-11
#s#
John Ford
Ford
Larry Blair
Blair
Sami Driss
Driss
Djordje Petrovic
Petrovic
Jean-Victor Traore
Traore
#e#5

Player of the Year: John Ford (207-C-78) of Bordeaux
Guard of the Year: Larry Blair (183-G-84) of Denek
Forward of the Year: Djordje Petrovic (202-F-84) of St Etienne
Center of the Year: John Ford (207-C-78) of Bordeaux
Bosman Player of the Year: Djordje Petrovic (202-F-84) of St Etienne
Import Player of the Year: John Ford (207-C-78) of Bordeaux
Domestic Player of the Year: Jean-Victor Traore (204-F-85) of Angers BC 49
Defensive Player of the Year: Jean-Stephane Rinna (205-F-83) of St Chamond
Coach of the Year: Yann Yolivet of St Etienne

1st Team
G: Larry Blair (183-84) of Denek
G: Sami Driss (196-82) of Bordeaux
F: Djordje Petrovic (202-84) of St Etienne
F: Jean-Victor Traore (204-85) of Angers BC 49
C: John Ford (207-78) of Bordeaux

2nd Team
G: Damien Pistre (190-83) of Le Puy
F: Juwann James (198-87) of Challans
F/C: Gabriel Kennedy (205-81) of Orchy
C: Xavier Pasut (200-84) of Sorgues
F/C: Boakai Lalugba (200-81) of Denain

Honorable Mention
Renaud Brocheray (203-C-80) of Denain
Julien Lesieu (199-F-83) of St Quentin
Rafael Lopez (204-C-86) of Brest
Cyril Guillarme (206-C-84) of Le Puy
Jacques Alingue (201-F-88) of Souffel
Antwon Hoard (199-F-72) of Lievin
Romain Dardaine (200-F-88) of Bordeaux
Keonta Howell (193-G-85) of St Quentin
Vaidotas Pridotkas (200-F-84) of Brest
Julien Doreau (200-F-83) of Brest
Slobodan Ocokoljic (204-F-80) of Sorgues
Jean-Stephane Rinna (205-F-83) of St Chamond

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Sami Driss (196-82) of Bordeaux
G: Damien Pistre (190-83) of Le Puy
F: Jean-Victor Traore (204-85) of Angers BC 49
C: Xavier Pasut (200-84) of Sorgues
C: Renaud Brocheray (203-80) of Denain

All-Imports Team
G: Larry Blair (183-84) of Denek
F: Juwann James (198-87) of Challans
F/C: Gabriel Kennedy (205-81) of Orchy
F/C: Boakai Lalugba (200-81) of Denain
C: John Ford (207-78) of Bordeaux

All-Bosmans Team
F: Djordje Petrovic (202-84) of St Etienne
F: Vaidotas Pridotkas (200-84) of Brest
F: Slobodan Ocokoljic (204-80) of Sorgues
F: Dejan Sencanski (198-84) of St Quentin
C: Petras Balocka (205-86) of Lievin



Nate Carter voted MVP of ProB - by Eurobasket
All-ProB 1st Team 2010-11
#s#
Nate Carter
Carter
Philippe Da Silva
Da Silva
Jason Siggers
Siggers
Sherman Gay
Gay
Moses Sonko
Sonko
#e#5

Player of the Year: Nate Carter (199-F/C-83) of Nanterre
Guard of the Year: Philippe Da Silva (192-G-79) of Evreux
Forward of the Year: Nate Carter (199-F/C-83) of Nanterre
Center of the Year: Sacha Massot (204-C/F-83) of Antibes
Domestic Player of the Year: Philippe Da Silva (192-G-79) of Evreux
Import Player of the Year: Nate Carter (199-F/C-83) of Nanterre
Bosman Player of the Year: Sacha Massot (204-C/F-83) of Antibes
Defensive Player of the Year: Sherman Gay (201-F-82) of Fos Ouest
Coach of the Year: Pascal Donadieu of Nanterre

1st Team
G: Philippe Da Silva (192-79) of Evreux
G: Jason Siggers (187-85) of Rouen
F/C: Nate Carter (199-83) of Nanterre
F: Sherman Gay (201-82) of Fos Ouest
F: Moses Sonko (196-83) of Maurienne

2nd Team
G: Errick Craven (188-83) of Dijon
F: Mykal Riley (198-85) of Nanterre
F: Jeremy Leloup (202-87) of Dijon
F: Korvotney Barber (201-87) of Nantes
F/C: James Mathis (199-84) of Maurienne

3rd Team
G: Austen Rowland (186-81) of Evreux
F: Chris Daniels (200-82) of Chalons-Reims
F: David Monds (205-83) of Orleans
C/F: Sacha Massot (204-83) of Antibes
F/C: Nigel Wyatte (204-81) of Le Portel

Honorable Mention
Johan Passave-Ducteil (200-C-85) of Nanterre
William Daniels (203-F-86) of Nanterre
Erroyl Bing (198-F/C-82) of Dijon
David Melody (184-G-77) of Dijon
Mohamed Hachad (194-G-83) of Fos Ouest
Landon Milbourne (201-F-87) of Boulogne
Andre Harris (201-F/C-85) of Lille
Corey Rouse (203-F-84) of Charleville

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Philippe Da Silva (192-79) of Evreux
G: David Melody (184-77) of Dijon
G/F: Cheikhou Thioune (194-83) of Rouen
F: Jeremy Leloup (202-87) of Dijon
C: Johan Passave-Ducteil (200-85) of Nanterre

All-Imports Team
G: Jason Siggers (187-85) of Rouen
G: Errick Craven (188-83) of Dijon
F/C: Nate Carter (199-83) of Nanterre
F: Moses Sonko (196-83) of Maurienne
F: Sherman Gay (201-82) of Fos Ouest

All-Bosmans Team
G: Klemensas Patiejunas (186-77) of Boulogne
G: Marius Runkaukas (189-86) of Quimper
G: Bryan Mullins (185-87) of Chalons-Reims
G: Milos Bojovic (198-81) of Antibes
C/F: Sacha Massot (204-83) of Antibes



*****************************************************
  GERMANY   


Saar-Pfalz Braves resign Coach Josipovic for three more years - by Moritz Korff
The Saar-Pfalz Braves (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have signed head coach Nenad Josipovic to a three-year contract extension, it was announced by the club today.
Josipovic just finished his second season with the Braves after signing with the Pro A side prior to the 2009-2010 campaign. The Croat coached the Braves to a 16-12 record and a fifth place finish in this past season. Additionally to his head coaching duties Josipovic will also be in charge of the Braves' youth program in the years to come.
He worked for Oldenburger TB, the Bremen Roosters and BG Karlsruhe before making the move to Homburg.

USC Leipzig Keep Ralph Schirmer - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Ralph Schirmer (203-F/C-86) will play a second season wearing #24 with USC Leipzig as the team announced. Schirmer is 24 year old 203 cm power forward/center that played 24 games for USC Leipzig last season averaging 13.9ppg, 7.3rpg, FGP: 59.0%, FT: 73.9%. 'The season ended well for us and one could see development. I was a good part of the success and it was easy to say, I want to stay here and keep with the development', added Ralph Schirmer (203-F/C-86). The German started his basketball career for Mitteldeutscher BC (2.Bundesliga) in 2006 playing in Weissenfels until 2009. He played two seasons in the PRO A and one season in the Regionaliga. In 2009-2010,he played for BC Scholz Recycling Weissenhorn (ProB): 3 games: 8.7ppg, 3.0rpg, left in Nov.'09, in Dec.'09 moved to Licher Basket Baeren (ProB): 17 games: 8.5ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 74.0%.

Source: USC Leipzig

Jason Boone ( It Is A Lot Harder To Slow Down The Pace Than Speed It Up) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Jason Boone (198-F/C-85, college: New York U.) is a 25 year old 198cm power forward/center from Sugar Loaf, New York. He just completed his third season with BG Goettingen. He played at New York University (NCAA 3) from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 28 games averaging 14.1ppg, 9.6rpg, 2.4bpg, 2.9apg, FG: 63.0%, FT: 64.3%. Two seasons ago, he played at Bernau (Regionalliga) before making the jump up three leagues to MEG Goettingen. In 2008-2009, he averaged 4.4ppg, 4.0rpg, FG: 53.7%. Last season, he played EuroChallenge: 16 games: 10.7ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 59.6%, FT: 53.8%; German League: 35 games: 9.1ppg, 6.1rpg, FGP: 60.3%, FT: 55.9%. In 2010-2011,he played EuroCup: 14 games: 9.1ppg, 6.2rpg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 59.8%, FT: 36.0%.In the beko BBL,he played 37 games averaging 8,5ppg and 5,9rpg. He spoke to eurobasket about the beko BBL final between Bamberg and Alba Berlin

The Brose Baskets Bamberg beat The Artland Dragons 3-2 to reach the final. Were you surprised that Bamberg had to go the distance?

It's playoff time, there are no surprises. My picks to win this years BBL playoffs were worse than my NCAA bracket (and that was pretty bad). But Artland is a tough team with one of the best, if not the best, finishers in the league. But Bamberg proved why they were the clear favorite when it mattered most.

Alba Berlin beat The Deutsche Bank Skyliners 3-2 where no team was able to win at home. How crazy is that and what does that say about the mental toughness of both teams on the road?


Alright, disregard my last answer because that was a surprise. I didn't think that the home team would lose every game but it just goes to show that in the playoffs it's about adjustments and execution. The only thing I think that proves about mental toughness is that both teams lacked a bit of it, not being able to win more than one game in a row.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg meet Alba Berlin in the finals. What kind of series can we expect and will this go the distance?

Like I said I haven't been correct yet but I think, at this point, one team is going to show dominance. Whoever wins game one will win the series in 3 or 4.

Alba Berlin lost both games during the regular season including losing by 52 points in Bamberg. How much will that still be on the minds of Alba Berlin.

They are a very different team then they were during the year. Plus the mindset of any successful playoff team is that it's a new start and nothing that happened in the regular season matters anymore.

Both teams have very good guard play, but does the advantage still go to Bamberg on account of their experience and having played together longer whereas with Alba you had guys like Taylor Rochestie and Heiko Schaffartzik coming late in the season?

I played with Taylor Rochestie so I can speak on his ability moreso than I can with the Bamberg guards. It helps having been together longer, but there are few people that I've ever played with that want to win as much as Taylor. Guard play will be a key factor in the series.

Both teams also have very good forward play. Who has the edge and could the key matchup in this series be Predrag Suput-Derrick Allen?


The forward matchup is also going to be a key, but in my opinion Derrick Allen is going to have a hard time stopping Suput. The same way Suput is going to have a hard time stopping Allen. They both have too many offensive weapons so it'll be more a team defensive effort. And Defense will be the reason why one team wins the title.

Who has the edge on the center position? The Alba Berlin duo of Yassin Idbihi and Miroslav Raduljica have been tough on Frankfurt, but could get more resistance against Bamberg while the duo of Tibor Pleiss and Kyle Hines gives Bamberg a totally different face each time the other is on the court.

This year we were able to get both Alba and Bamberg at home, and a key reason was because of the pace we kept and how physical we played their big guys. So in knowing both their strengths and their weaknesses, I think the edge down low has to go to Alba. Raduljica takes up too much space and Ibdihi has been playing very well as of late. If all centers can stay out of foul trouble it'll be a good battle.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg play a controlled offense with possibily the best ball movement in the beko BBL and their defense belongs to the best in the league, while Alba Berlin plays faster, less predictable and with changing defenses. What will be key for Alba Berlin/Bamberg to win this series?

I think it's just that...the pace. When Alba can get out and run, make Pliess and Hines run back on defense and try to block shots (maybe get in foul trouble). Then they can exploit their mismatches. When Bamberg forces them to slow down and it becomes a 'who runs better halfcourt sets' game, it'll be difficult for Alba to compete. But being a basketball player I know it's a lot harder to slow the pace down than to speed it up and that's why I'd give the slight edge to Alba.

Shaq announced his retirement. What was your favorite Shaq moment while he was in the NBA?


Too many to name just one. Shaq will (after Charles Barkley) always be my favorite player in the league. I love it when he scores with his left hand and runs back down the court staring at his hand. Obviously the breaking of the backboard was classic but my favorite Shaq moment was probably that 'freestyle' to the Cheers theme song dedicated to the Sacramento 'Queens.'

Scottie Pippen stated that Lebron James is better than Michael Jordan. What is your take on this statement?

I don't smoke...but if I did smoke...I'd want to smoke whatever it is that Scottie Pippen smokes. LeBron James has the potential...one day...to be looked at as the best ever because of the skill set and natural abilities he possesses. But not now, it's way too soon to make that claim.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I'm in America now, so I don't watch DVD's. I go to the movie theater.

Thanks Jason for the chat.

Andreas Kronhardt joins Pro A newcomer Leitershofen/Stadtbergen - by Moritz Korff
2. Bundesliga Pro A newcomer BG Leitershofen/Stadtbergen announced the agreement with the first new player for the 2011-12 season. Andreas Kronhardt (204-C-89) joins the Red Kangaroos coming from SC Rasta Vechta. The 21-year-old inside player averaged 11.1 points and 7.4 boards per contest for Rasta through the 2010-10 season.
The year before Kronhardt appeared in six BBL games for Tuebingen, while mostly seeing action at SV 03 Tuebingen in the Regionalliga.

Ivan Elliot Remains With The s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg have kept Ivan Elliott (203-F/C-86, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: UCSB), who played for the club last season helping them reach the beko BBL. Elliot is a 24 year old 203 cm power forward/center from San Francisco, California. Elliot has beko BBL experience having played in the 2009-2010 season for the Mitteldeutscher BC where he played 34 games: averaging 7.4ppg, 4.6rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 73.3%. 'With MBC, he already showed solid play. We had a lot of luck that we could get him last season'', added assistant coach Marcel Schroeder . Last season with Wurzburg, Elliot played 30 games averaging 10,6ppg and 6,0rpg and scoring in double figurers in 18 games. 'Ivan often helped us decide games with his play. He not only has a dangerous shot from outside, but is a strong rebounder and was an important factor in the defense. We also think that he can play an important role for us in the beko BBL', stressed Marcel Schroeder . Elliot played at UCSB (NCAA) and in his senior year in 2007-2008, played 32 games averaging 9.6ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 55.6%, 3Pts: 44.8%, FT: 68.0%. In 2008-2009, he turned professional and played for SK Valmiera (Latvia-LBL, starting five): Latvian League: 28 games: 11.5ppg, Reb-4 (8.0rpg), Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 64.1%; Baltic League (Elite Group): 18 games: 10.1ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 70.3%. Awards/Achievements in his career have been HS: First Team All-City and Honorable Mention All-Bay Area, College: All-Coast Conference, All-Big West Honorable Mention -08, Big West Regular Season Champion -08, Latvian League Regular Season Champion -09, and German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Runner-Up -11.

Source: s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg

Wulfen: Steve Briggs accepts contract extension - by Moritz Korff
BSV Wulfen's starting point guard Steve Briggs (178-G-85, college: Okla.Wesleyan) has inked a new deal with the 2. Bundesliga Pro B team and thus also in his second year as a pro will turn out for the Wolves. The 25-year-old out of Duncanville, Texas was second Wulfen's second leading scorer (21.1pg) through the 2010-11 campaign. He scored in double digits in all but three games during the season, while recording a season high 42 points against Leverkusen. The former NAIA Division 2 Player of the Year was on the top of the Pro B in three pointers made (68) and ranked fourth in minutes played. He nailed five or more treys in a game on six occasions and helped BSV to clinch a playoff berth in its first ever Pro B season.

Nowitzki named NBA Finals MVP - by Eurobasket News
Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) has been named MVP of the NBA finals for his huge role in leading the Dallas Mavericks to their first championship.

Although Nowitzki struggled in the Game 6 clincher, he certainly put them in position to win it all, overcoming injury and illness to power fourth-quarter comebacks from deficits of 12, nine and four points in Dallas' previous wins.

The 2007 league MVP won Game 2 with a left-handed layup despite having torn a tendon in the tip of his left middle finger in Game 1.

He scored 10 of his 21 points in the final period of Game 4 despite playing with a 101-degree fever because of a sinus infection.

In Game 5, his driving dunk in the final minutes put Dallas ahead for good.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com

*****************************************************
  GUYANA   


Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation list 19 players for CBC Championships - by Eurobasket News
Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation named 19 players who are going to prepare for the CBC Championships. The tournament is scheduled for July 23-29 in Bahamas. GABF called up 35 players for tryouts at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Coaches Robert Cadagon, Mark Agard, Lugard Mohan and Abdullah Hamid chose 19 ballers to get ready for the upcoming event. These are:

Kevin Joseph, Keron McKenzie (193-G-86, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment, college: Armstr.Atlantic), Rodwell Fortune, Travis Burnette, Steve Neils, Shelroy Thomas (173-90), Ryan Stephaney, Andrew Ifill (197-F-79), Stephon Gillis, Akeem Kanhai (183-91), Neil Marks, James Louis, Randy Richards, Dwayne Roberts (C), Kurt Elias (C), Jermaine Slater (193) and Shane Webster.


*****************************************************
  IBL   


Standings
IBL Standings
Continental Division
 1. Bellingham S. 12-5 
 2. Vancouver V. 10-4 
 3. W.C. Hotshots 8-7 
 4. Olympia R. 5-9 
 5. L.Angeles L. 0-1 
 6. USA All-Stars 0-18 
International Division
 1. Albany L. 12-3 
 2. Kankakee S. 11-4 
 3. Edmonton E. 10-4 
 4. Gary Splash 10-7 
 5. Oregon W. 5-9 
Branding Team
 1. Dayton A. 3-0 
 2. Lansing C. 2-5 
 3. Las Vegas P. 0-1 
 4. Phoenix R. 0-3 
 5. Lake Co. 0-4 
 6. Ohio H.G. 0-4 


*****************************************************
  ISRAEL   


Elitzur Netanya hires Danny Franco - by Netanel Dahan
Elitzur 'Barak' Netanya decided to hire Danny Franco (agency: Avi Zilberman ) to be their head coach for the upcoming season.


Franco coached last season Hapoel Holon, and he enters to his 6th season as a head coach in the Israeli 1st league.
Franco also coached the Israeli U16 and U18 national teams, his highlight achivments as a head coach was winning the Israeli state cup with Hapoel Holon on 2008-09 season.


He will replace in Netanya Arik Alfasi and Shai Segalovich who decided to search for a new challenge after 4 seasons with the team.



Israeli BSL Announces "Chance Cup" Participating Teams - by David Pick
The Israeli BSL (Basketball Super League) League Cup competition will be known as of next season as the 'Chance Cup'. The first of three possible Israeli basketball awards will take place once again in the nation's capital city of Jerusalem and home of the Hapoel Jerusalem organization, 'Malha' arena.

The tournament will take place between the dates of October 9th-13th, as the quarter-final round will be played on Sunday and Monday. The first teams to square off in a double header will be Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion facing Bnei Hasharon and host, Hapoel Jerusalem against Maccabi Ashdod.

The second festive evening will be a repeat of last season's first playoff round as the league's finalist, Hapoel Galil Gilboa will match up against Hapoel Holon and state champions, Maccabi Tel-Aviv will try and march over Elitzur Netanya in search of their third (2007, 2010) crown and first back-to-back league cup titles after defeating Jerusalem in last year's finals. Other cup holders were Ironi Ashkelon (2006), Hapoel Jerusalem (2008, 2009).



*****************************************************
  ITALY   


Serbia U19 rally past Benetton Junior Team in Treviso - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U19 - Benetton Juniors 67:55

Serbian U19 National Team played their third game at the Adidas Eurocamp in Italy. They held off Benetton Junior team tonight to improve at 1-2 record. Nemanja Besovic (220-C-92) stepped up with 10 points and 6 rebounds to lead Serbians.
The Balkan team got to the better start. They recorded a 17:10 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the pressure throughout the second frame. Serbia posted a 35:24 halftime advantage. Benetton started to adjust their offence in the third quarter. They cut the deficit at 8-point mark with one quarter remaining. But Serbia outgunned the hosts in the final period and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Bogic Vujosevic (189-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) provided 9 points for the winners. Bogdan Bogdanovic (198-G-92) added 8 points and 6 steals for Serbia. Jakub Wojciechowski (195-F-93) answered with game-high 16 points for Benetton. Samuel Deguara (224-C-91) netted 13 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in defeat.

Serbia U19: Nemanja Besovic 10, Bogic Vujosevic 9, Bogdan Bogdanovic 8
Benetton Jr.: Jakub Wojciechowski 16, Samuel Deguara 13


Stats Leaders - SerieA
Points Per Game
 James WHITE
  Dinamo Sassari
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 20.2
 1. White, Dinamo Sass.20.2 
 2. Thomas, Air AV17.5 
 3. Rivers, CS Bologna17.2 
 4. Zoroski, Banca T.16.0 
 5. Ford, Fabi Shoes15.8 
 6. Hunter, Dinamo S.14.8 
 7. Goss, Cimberio VA14.8 
 8. Milic, Vanoli CR14.8 
 9. Roberson, Enel B.14.6 
 10. Dean, Air AV14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Ford, Fabi Shoes10.4 
 2. Jones, Pepsi C.8.6 
 3. Troutman, Air AV8.3 
 4. Davis, Banca Terc.8.2 
 5. Homan, CS Bologna8.1 
 6. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes8.0 
 7. Lang, Enel Brindisi7.8 
 8. Hunter, Dinamo S.7.8 
 9. Suton, Angelico BI7.4 
 10. Sanikidze, CS Bo.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Marques GREEN
  Air AV
  (170-G-82)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Green, Air AV6.8 
 2. Diener, Dinamo S.4.6 
 3. Sosa, Angelico BI4.5 
 4. Collins, Scavolin.3.9 
 5. Rowland, Vanoli CR3.8 
 6. Zoroski, Banca T.3.8 
 7. Goss, Cimberio VA3.8 
 8. Markovic, Benetton.3.5 
 9. Green, Bennet Can.3.4 
 10. Diener, Banca T.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Earl ROWLAND
  Vanoli CR
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Rowland, Vanoli CR2.9 
 2. Stonerook, Montep.2.9 
 3. Troutman, Air AV2.7 
 4. Green, Air AV2.7 
 5. Goss, Cimberio VA2.7 
 6. Thomas, Air AV2.5 
 7. Hackett, Scavolin.2.4 
 8. Collins, Scavolin.2.4 
 9. McCalebb, Montepa.2.4 
 10. Dasic, Lottomati.2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Ford, Fabi Shoes2.3 
 2. Eze, Armani MI1.3 
 3. Crosariol, Lottoma.1.3 
 4. Toure, Enel Brindi.1.2 
 5. Szewczyk, Air AV1.0 
 6. Lang, Enel Brindisi1.0 
 7. Hunter, Dinamo S.1.0 
 8. Polonara, Banca T.0.9 
 9. Cusin, Scavolini PS0.9 
 10. Homan, CS Bologna0.8 


SerieA Round 2 of Finals. Montepaschi Siena grab second win in a row - by Eurobasket News
Montepaschi - Bennet Cantu 81-69

Montepaschi are 2-0 up on Bennet Cantu following the second straight home win. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 81-69. Montepaschi Siena made 25-of-31 free shots (80.6 percent) during the game. 27 personal fouls committed by Bennet Cantu helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Lithuanian center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-79) scored 16 points (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) to lead the charge for the winners and American-FYR Macedonian guard Bo Lester McCalebb (183-85, college: New Orleans) chipped in 12 points during the contest. Four Montepaschi Siena players scored in double figures. Montepaschi Siena's coach Simone Pianigiani used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Serbian forward Marko Scekic (207-81, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 12 points and 9 rebounds and American forward Maarten Leunen (206-85, college: Oregon) scored 10 points and 6 assists.
Top scorers:
Montepaschi: K.Lavrinovic 16+4reb+2ast, B.Lester McCalebb 12+3reb+3ast, M.Hairston 10+3reb, R.Kaukenas 10+2ast, A.Michelori 6+3reb, P.Aradori 5+1reb
Bennet Cantu: M.Scekic 12+9reb+2ast, J.Tabu 10+4reb+2ast, M.Leunen 10+4reb+6ast, D.Marconato 9+3reb, M.Markoishvili 9+2reb+3ast, N.Mazzarino 8
gschID: 129653




*****************************************************
  JORDAN   


Sakakini in China , Gargour joins-Waiting for Qahwash , Iran B in WABA! - by Omar Shafaamri
* Jordanian Abroad Camille Gargour will show up in Jordan NT Trainings tomorrow inshalla, Camile 6'3' shined in Los Angeles High Schools Championships and got the MVP in 4 consecutive Years there.

** Jordanian Abroad Imad Qahwash (187-G-87, agency: N.E.T.) would join the NT in the upcoming 2 Weeks, everything depends on fixing his ID Number.

*** Ukraine Basketball Federation announced a List of 20 Players to prepare for Eurobasket 2011 , Ukraine will host a Friendly Torunament with participation of Jordan , Lithuania and Belarus Next July. NBA Star Kirill Fesenko along with Valencia Club Star Sergei Lischuk are amonng the list .

**** National Team of Iran will participate most probably in WABA Championship with B Team , Iran Federation called 9 players for National Team B .

***** Riyadi-Aramex Star Sani Sakakini joined Guangzhou Club in NBL Chinese League (2nd Division League).


*****************************************************
  LATVIA   


Latvian U19 and U20 selections play friendly - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U20 - Latvia U19 74:49

Latvian U20 and U19 National Teams played a test game yesterday. Latvia U20 earned a comfortable win at the end. Janis Antrops (193-G-91, agency: Interperformances) and Armands Osins (192-G-91, agency: FCM) came up with 12 points each to pace the winners.
Latvia U20 earned a 15:12 lead after ten minutes. They stayed in charge throughout the second period. U20 team arrived at halftime up by 5 points 34:29. The third term belonged to U20 selection. They limited their younger opponents to just 10 points in the quarter and cleared off to an 18-point distance. Latvia U20 cruised to the victory then. Mareks Mejeris (199-F-91, agency: Players Group) and Viktors Iljins (208-C-91) provided 9 points apiece in the winning effort. Arturs Bricis (190-G-92) answered with 14 points and 8 rebounds for Latvia U19. Oskars Reinfelds (190-G-94) delivered 12 points in defeat.

Latvia U20: Janis Antrops 12, Armands Osins 12, Mareks Mejeris 9, Viktors Iljins 9
Latvia U19: Arturs Bricis 14, Oskars Reinfelds 12


*****************************************************
  LUXEMBOURG   


T71 Dudelange defend Diekirch League title - by Eurobasket News
T71 - Etzella 86:52

T71 Dudelange repeated as Diekirch League champions. They overcame Etzella in the decisive third game of the title series. Frank Muller (194-F/C-88, college: Cuesta JC) provided 26 points and 11 rebounds to pace T71.
T71 Dudelange gave no chance for Etzella right from the start. The hosts opened the game on a 14:0 run. They recorded a 24:9 lead after ten minutes. Etzella never got closer than 10 points in the second frame. T71 registered a 40:22 halftime advantage. T71 Dudelange easily boosted the margin to 20+ points. They capped the third term on an 8:2 run to post a 65:36 advantage. Etzella simply had no answers for the onslaught and the home team cruised to the victory in the final period. Tom Schumacher (190-G-87, college: Cal.Baptist) connected for 19 points, while Denell Stephens (193-G/F-86, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Slippery Rock) accounted for 14 points and 18 rebounds in the victory. Dustin Scott (203-F/C-85, college: Charleston) replied with 13 points and 10 rebounds for Etzella. Raphael Albaladejo (200-F/C-84) finished with 11 points in the loss.

T71: Frank Muller 26+11 boards, Tom Schumacher 19, Denell Stephens 14+18 boards
Etzella: Dustin Scott 13+10 boards, Raphael Albaladejo 11


*****************************************************
  MALTA   


Athleta triumph in the championship - by Eurobasket News
Athleta claimed their favourites status sweeping the championship series against BUPA Luxol. Athleta celebrated a 76:55 win in the second game to clinch the title. It was the eighth crown for Athleta in their history. Michael Naudi (193-G/F-80) stepped up with 22 points to lead the charge.
Athleta gave little chance for Luxol right from the start. They recorded a 21:10 advantage ten minutes into the game. Luxol tried to bounce back in the second period but cut the distance to 10 points at halftime 26:36. Luxol got within 7 points early in the third term but it was far from enough. Athleta stepped on the gas and eased to a comfortable 19-point lead with one quarter remaining. The visitors never looked back and marched to a comfortable win at the end. Omar Said (177-G-80) and Dirk Schembri (193-F-85) finished with 14 points each. Addison Bonnici (195-F-84) accounted for 10 points for Athleta. Nebojsa Vasovic answered with 15 points for Luxol. Petar Apcev (199-F-89) and Jean Paul Bonnici (196-C-88) responded with 10 points each in the loss.


*****************************************************
  MEXICO   


CIBACOPA Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin SOWELL
  Guasave
  (190-G-81)
  Avg: 30.7
 1. Sowell, Guasave30.7 
 2. White, Cananea28.2 
 3. Sowell, Culiacan27.3 
 4. Gale, Mexicali26.8 
 5. Brown, Tepic24.8 
 6. White, Los Mochis24.2 
 7. Moore, Culiacan24.2 
 8. Brown, Cananea24.0 
 9. Gabbidon, Tijuana23.3 
 10. Brown, Tepic23.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Brandon BROWN
  Cananea
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Brown, Cananea11.6 
 2. Moss, Nogales9.9 
 3. Angounou, Guasave9.8 
 4. Brown, Tepic9.6 
 5. VanderMeer, Mexica.9.6 
 6. Broxsie, Nogales8.7 
 7. Malloy, Los Mochis8.7 
 8. Shipley, Tijuana8.6 
 9. Gray, Hermosillo8.3 
 10. Thomas, Hermosillo8.1 
Assists Per Game
 William FUNN
  Guasave
  (188-G-82)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Funn, Guasave8.2 
 2. Watson, Tijuana5.7 
 3. White, Los Mochis5.7 
 4. White, Cananea5.6 
 5. Winder, Guaymas5.2 
 6. Thomas, Hermosillo4.8 
 7. Brown, Tepic4.4 
 8. Monreal, Hermosillo4.2 
 9. Nungaray, Guaymas4.2 
 10. Marentes, Guaymas4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Davin WHITE
  Cananea
  (186-G-81)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. White, Cananea2.2 
 2. Moore, Culiacan1.9 
 3. Roby, Guaymas1.8 
 4. Funn, Guasave1.7 
 5. Gale, Mexicali1.7 
 6. Sowell, Guasave1.6 
 7. Brown, Cananea1.6 
 8. White, Los Mochis1.6 
 9. Rougeau, Culiacan1.6 
 10. Thomas, Cananea1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Kevin SOWELL
  Culiacan
  (190-G-81)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Sowell, Culiacan3.2 
 2. Gale, Mexicali2.6 
 3. Sowell, Guasave2.3 
 4. Shipley, Tijuana2.2 
 5. White, Los Mochis2.2 
 6. Funn, Guasave2.1 
 7. Brown, Tepic2.1 
 8. Thomas, Hermosillo2.0 
 9. Brown, Tepic2.0 
 10. Malloy, Los Mochis1.9 


Standings - Lower Leagues
CIBANE Standings
1. Saltillo Caktus 4-0
2. Tuzos de la UAZ. 1-0
3. Madereros Dgo. 3-1
4. Mineros Fresnillo. 2-1
5. Apodaca G. 1-5
6. P.Negras A. 0-4


CIBANE FIRST 4 ROUNDS - by Harold Valenzuela
This year CIBANE starts with a lot of good things. First of all was the new team of Zacatecas Tuzos de la UAZ Zacatecas CEMOZAC; they are a college team with 2 americans and 2 national players, another good for the league is the Caktus de Saltillo de Saltillo team who all ready won every 4 games they played.

Lets talk about the best players already. First Ignacio Barrera (G-93) of Caktus de Saltillo , he score in his first profesionall game 44 pts, he is a youth national team player, Osmand Stanley (192-F-81) of Guerreros de Apodaca is having a very good season with games of 15, 15, 36, 32, 27 and 26 points. Victor Chavez (198-G/F-83) is having one finest season already and Santiago Nogueira (183-G-83) is showing his talent to for Madereros de Durango. One player who is the hearth of Mineros de Fresnillo is Sergio Escobar (195-F-81) and Valentin Cabral (186-G/F-80), Tuzos de la UAZ Zacatecas CEMOZAC have in their roster Gerardo Arroyos (200-F) and Rodolfo Rodriguez (190-G-80); the teams are hiring players to be better this season like Aguilas de Piedras Negras who sign the Sonora point guard Francisco Luna (180-G-83) who is one of the best point guards in Mexico.

Some Foreings are very good like Sandrell Spann (203-F/C-80, college: Delta St.), Roderick Smith (203-C-83, college: Jackson St.) of Madereros de Durango, the new player of Mineros de Fresnillo Tyronne Beale (203-F-84, college: Bowie St.) a high flying and spectacular player, but Piedras Negras has maybe the best American player all ready in the name of Jonathan Maxwell (191-G-82).


The season just started and the teams are locking better every round.



*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO   


Unics Kazan and Slavko Vranes part ways - by Eurobasket News
Slavko Vranes (229-C-83, agency: Beo Basket) is no longer a member of Unics Kazan. The Russian outfit decided to part ways with Montenegrin giant. Vranes joined Unics last summer from Partizan Belgrade. He tallied 2.5 points and 2.4 rebounds per EuroCup game. In VTB-League his stats read 5.2 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per appearance. Slavko Vranes also posted 1.4 points and 2.1 rebounds in Russian PBL. Unics won the EuroCup title this season they will compete in Euroleague 2011/12. In VTB United league and PBL, Unics reached Semifinals. Before Uncis, Slavko Vranes played for Partizan and Buducnost. He also had a short stint with the New York Knicks and Portland Trail Blazers. In his career, Vranes also played for Tofas, Efes Pilsen and Antalya. He is active member of the Montenegro NT.
Unics in the meantime eye Nathan Jawai (207-C-86, college: Midland CC). The 24-year-old Australian centre played for Partizan this season.

*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


Alaska-Fairbanks Selects New Coach - by Sanjey Noriega
From: alaskananooks.com

FAIRBANKS, Alaska - University of Alaska Fairbanks Director of Athletics Forrest Karr announced today that Mick Durham has been named the next head coach for the Alaska Nanooks men's basketball program.

Mick has significant experience and has been very successful coaching at a high level, said Karr. He is the kind of coach that any parent would want their son to play for.

'Durham has spent the past three seasons as an assistant men's basketball coach at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces. During that time the Aggies record was 55-44.

I'm very excited and looking forward to the opportunity to be the head basketball coach at UAF and competing in the GNAC, said Durham. I was very impressed with the commitment the university is making to basketball on my visit to Fairbanks.

Durham will take over as the 12th head coach in program history, replacing Clemon Johnson who coached the Nanooks for the past four seasons and stepped down in May to take a Division I head coaching job at his alma mater, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.

Prior to New Mexico State, Durham served for 16 years as the head coach at Montana State University. He retired in 2006 with the second-most victories and second-longest coaching tenure in Golden Bobcats school history.

Durham recorded 246 career wins, which ranks first in Big Sky Conference history. He was a three-time conference coach of the year (1996, 2002 and 2005) and led the Bobcats to the 1996 NCAA Tournament. Durham guided the Bobcats to a pair of Big Sky regular season titles (1996 and 2002) and one league tournament championship (1996).

Mick has earned respect throughout the coaching profession, said Karr. Everyone I've spoken with says he is an outstanding coach who is loyal and comports himself with class at all times. It's very clear that he's in coaching for the right reasons.

Durham was named head coach of the Bobcat program after he spent eight seasons as an assistant coach, 1982 1990. Prior to his return to Montana State, Durham began his career as the boy's basketball head coach at Shepherd High School, in Shepherd, Mont., for two years, 1980 1982.

Durham graduated from Montana State with a bachelor's degree in 1979 and a master's degree in 1980 following a successful Bobcat career as a point guard. Durham finished his career with 901 total points and 362 assists. Durham is fourth in MSU history in assists and free throw percentage (.816), and he ranked second in both categories when he graduated.

Durham is familiar with Fairbanks, having brought Montana State to the BP Top of the World Classic in 1999 and 2005.

I have fond memories of my two trips to the Top of the World Classic and the excitement it created and all the community involvement it took, said Durham. I saw the potential the UAF program has.

Durham has already decided to retain Nanooks' Assistant Coach Eric Stang.

I am very appreciative of what Eric has done for the program in a short time in Alaska and I look forward to working with him, said Durham. I've known Eric for some time. He has paid his dues in this profession and really grown. I believe we can really work well together.

Durham will be available to meet with the public at 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 21, in the Nanook Lounge.

Durham's final terms of employment are subject to a background check.


Lubbers named CCU coach - by Eurobasket News
RSS Colorado Christian University Athletic Director Darren Richie announced the hiring of Kevin Lubbers as the Cougars newest head coach.

Lubbers comes to the Cougars from Trinity Christian College outside Chicago, where he led the Trolls for the past two seasons. Under his tutelage, the squad earned a CCAC (Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference) Co-Championship after posting an 11-3 conference record this past season. For his efforts, Lubbers was named CCAC Co-Coach of the Year.

In addition to their accomplishments on the court, which included a 2011 NCCAA Region Championship, Lubbers players stepped up in the classroom (3.15 team GPA) and in the community (service projects included time with half a dozen ministries in the Chicago area) in the past two years.

Prior to becoming head coach, Lubbers spent five years as an assistant coach for TCC, helping guide his teams to two CCAC Tournament Championships, an NAIA National Tournament appearance, and another shared CCAC regular season title.

In addition to his coaching duties, Lubbers served on the faculty and as Assistant Athletic Director at TCC.

We interviewed a number of outstanding and overly qualified candidates, said Richie, after an extensive process that included over 200 candidates for the position. After all was said and done, we were impressed with the complete package that Coach Lubbers presented. I believe that he will fit very well into our community and staff, and more importantly, he will be a tremendous fit for the team. The expectations he holds for his players are high, and he is a proven winner that has the skills to recruit talented, Christian players. We believe the future of CCU Basketball is bright with Coach Lubbers at the helm.

My family and I extremely excited about the door that God has opened in our lives at Colorado Christian, said Lubbers on Wednesday morning. I am confident that in the coming years we will be able to establish a highly successful program where young men grow and lead spiritually, academically, and athletically. I trust that God will bless this process for all those involved. My family and I are excited to begin this new chapter in our lives.

With just over two months remaining before the start of the 2011-12 school-year, Coach Lubbers will hit the ground running. After introducing his wife Anne and daughter Daisy to CCU, he will meet with players and then travel to wrap up recruiting for the 2011-12 season.
Courtesy of: Colorado Christian Athletics



Division II modifies tourney selection - by Eurobasket News
Primary and tiebreaker criteria in rank priority order to be used
Beginning next season, the selection process for the Division II Mens Basketball Championship will be modified to include both primary and tiebreaker criteria in rank priority order.

The decision, approved at the summer meeting of the Division II Championships Committee, is in response to the concerns of coaches, who wanted home losses to teams with records below .500 to be more costly. The coaches also wanted a performance indicator that will provide an additional qualitative tool for committee members making selections.

Effective with the 2011-12 season, the following criteria will be in place (in the following order):

Primary criteria

1. Overall Division II won-lost results.

2. Opponents average winning percentage.

3. Opponents opponents average winning percentage.

4. Head-to-head competition.

5. Results versus common opponents.

6. Results versus Division II ranked teams (all regions once ranked, always ranked).

7. Performance indicator.

Tiebreaker criteria

1. Rating Percentage Index in-region data.

2. Record in last 10 games.

The performance indicator will provide point values (Division II games only) ranging from 23 for road wins against a team with a .750 record to 0 for a home loss against a team with less than a .250 winning percentage. The totals will change during the year along with the records of the opponents. Ultimately, all the possible points are totaled and then divided by the number of games to provide the number that will be used for comparison.

Performance indicator

23 − Win on road against a .750 or above team

22 − Win neutral-site game against a .750 or above team

21 − Win at home against a .750 or above team

20 − Win on road against a .500-.749 team

19 − Win neutral site game against a .500-.749 team

18 − Win at home against a .500-.749 team

17 − Win on road against a .250- .499 team

16 − Win neutral site game against a .250-.499 team

15 − Win at home against a .250-.499 team

14 − Win on road against a .000-.249 team

13 − Win neutral site game against a .000-.249 team

12 − Win at home against a .000-.249 team

11 − Road loss to .750 or above team

10 − Neutral site loss to a .750 or above team

9 − Home loss to a .750 or above team

8 − Road loss to a .500-.749 team

7 − Neutral site loss to a .500-.749 team

6 − Home loss to a .500-.749 team

5 − Road loss to a .250-.499 team

4 − Neutral site loss to a .250-.499 team

3 − Home loss to a .250-.499 team

2 − Road loss to a .000-.250 team

1 − Neutral site loss to a .000-.250 team

0 − Home loss to a .000-.250 team

The Championships Committee also approved the Mens Basketball Committees recommendation to eliminate in-region Division II won-lost results as a primary criterion since so few out-of-region games are played. The in-region information will be factored into the Rating Percentage Index, which would be regarded as the No. 1 tiebreaker.

The committee defeated a second proposal from the Mens Basketball Committee that would have provided the opportunity to adjust the seeding in regional tournaments in cases where conference opponents would be playing each other for a fourth time (the previous three would be two regular-season games, plus a game in the conference tournament). The proposal was intended to enhance the championship experience for teams in such positions, but the Championships Committee concluded that the rule would be difficult to apply consistently and that it could be regarded as affecting the competition not only for the affected game but perhaps also for subsequent contests.
Courtesy of: David Pickle, NCAA.com

*****************************************************
  NCAA3   


Eastern Univ. hires Stewart for helm - by Eurobasket News
Eastern University Director of Athletics Brad Fields announced that Nathan Stewart will join the Eastern University Athletics staff as the new head men's basketball coach and assistant director of athletic development. Stewart comes to Eastern from the University of Maryland Baltimore County where he served as an assistant coach for the Division I Retrievers for five years. Stewart assumes the leadership of a program that is scheduled to return all the bulk of its talent from last season.

After an intense and thorough search process,' Fields related, 'I am excited to announce Nathan Stewart as our next mens basketball coach at Eastern University. Our singular goal was to identity the absolute best candidate to positively impact the mens basketball program, as well as our entire department. We accomplished that goal with the hiring of Nate. He came highly recommended from some outstanding basketball minds, and throughout the interview process, it became clear to [the] search committee that Nate was the person God had for us to lead Eastern mens basketball to new heights.'

Stewart played collegiately at Division III Roanoke before starting his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Marshall. From Marshall, Stewart moved to Radford before taking a position with UMBC in 2006. While at UMBC, Stewart was part of a staff that led the Retrievers to an America East title and NCAA tournament appearance in 2008.

'With broad-based experience in both Division I and Division III,' Fields continued, 'Nate demonstrated he has all the tools to be an excellent head coach, highlighted by a great attitude, a team-work mentality, an outstanding knowledge of basketball, a real desire and know-how to recruit aggressively, and a strong sense of values and faith with an emphasis in mentoring the whole person.''

While his role as head coach will be his most visible responsibility, Stewart will also take on significant responsibility as a point person for many of the department's development projects. Fields believed that Stewart has the ability and attitude to help the entire department to reach new levels.

'I would like to thank Brad Fields, Bettie Ann Brigham and the entire search committee,' Stewart said, 'for placing their trust in me to lead the men's basketball program at Eastern University. I am excited and grateful for this wonderful opportunity, I am looking forward to working with, and getting to know the current players at Eastern University. I want the players in our program to grow each and every day academically, athletically and spiritually. We want to compete for the Freedom Conference championship on a yearly basis. Our goal is to win championships!'

Stewart and his wife Lauren will transition to the area shortly, and Stewart will take over leadership of Eastern's summer camps. He becomes the fifth head men's basketball coach in the Division III history of the program. He replaces Matt Nadelhoffer, who led the program to double-figure wins in each of his nine seasons at the helm before departing in April to accept the head coaching position at Millikin University.

'Lastly,' Fields concluded, 'I would like to take this time to thank Matt Nadelhoffer for his nine years of dedication in building the Eastern mens basketball program as well as Ryan Livingston for serving as interim head coach during the transition phase. We are blessed to have such outstanding people lay the foundation for the future.
Courtesy of: Eastern University Athletics


*****************************************************
  NIGERIA   


Enugu school land conference final ticket - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Host Enugu have qualified for the finals of the male and female event of the Equatorial Conference of this years edition of the Nestle Milo basketball championships taking place in the Coal city.

In the first semi final played in the sports hall of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu female team defeated her Rivers State counterpart by 18-17 points in a keenly contested game while Bayelsa rolled over Imo by 33-27 points in the second semi-final to set up a final clash against the host.

Speaking ahead of todays final clash, Bayelsa State coach, Torunarigha Tony Nelson expressed happiness over his girls qualification for the zonal finals. He stated that he was looking forward to qualify for the national finals and would do everything possible to beat the host when both sides steps out in todays game.

I am happy that we are gradually moving towards what we came here to achieve and that is to win and qualify or the national championship in Lagos. Against Enugu, we will put up our best and make sure they dont profit from playing at home. They are strong but we will neutralize their threats and ensure we come out victorious.

Coach Nelson recalled that his team lost all their games last year in the same venue finishing last. He noting that he took with him a lot of positives and was able to train the girls and guide them to zonal final of this years conference finals. I think what worked for us was that we went back home after last years disappointment, did a lot of work on the basics and came out good this year.

In the boys category, Enugu team defeated Bayelsa 36-14 in the second semi final game to set up a final clash against Ebonyi, who defeated Rivers 58-27.

The boys final match-up promises to be a thrilling affair, as both sides showed that they have the capacity to win the trophy.


Akinlolu Akingbala helps Nancy win the French league title - by Eurobasket News
Akinlolu Akingbala (208-F-83, college: Clemson) finished wonderful season in France on Saturday. The Nigerian forward won the ProA title with his Nancy and they will compete in Euroleague next season. Nancy grabbed the title thanks to 76-74 thriller win against Cholet in the Big Final. Akingbala helped Nancy with 10 points and 7 rebounds in this meeting. He appeared 35 times this season in ProA averaging 10.3 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.3 blocks. In EuroChallenge, he added 12.4 ppg and 8.1 bpg for 8 games. Akinlolu Akingbala is active member of the Nigerian NT.
The Big Final was tied at 74-74, when John Linehan made a basket for Nancy with 3 seconds to go. The defending champion was unable to score in their last possession and they stayed without the trophy this season. Nancy won the title also in 2008. Nancy took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 24-20. But Cholet won second period 22-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. As mentioned above, the game was decided in the finish and Linehan was a hero. He was also named MVP of the Big Final. Nancy made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. Strangely Cholet outrebounded Sluc Nancy 41-28 including a 16-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Sluc Nancy especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. American guard John Linehan stepped up and scored 15 points and 4 assists for the winners and naturalized Cameroonian forward Victor Samnick chipped in 15 points. Five Sluc Nancy players scored in double figures. At the losing side Dominican guard Sammy Mejia responded with 15 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws) and American guard DeMarcus Nelson scored 15 points. Cholet's coach Erman Kunter rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Nancy was No.2 in regular season with 21-9 record. They eliminated Hyeres-Toulon in the Quarterfinals (2-1) and ASVEL in the Semis (2-1).

U16 Afrobasket: Nigeria draw Egypt, Algeria, Mozambique - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria U16 Men and Women national teams has been drawn in the Group-A ahead the 2011 edition of the Africa cadet championship holding in Egypt from July 8 through 17 and July 22-31.

The Nigerian Men side coached by the trio of Coaches Ayinla Johnson, Sani Turi and Abdulrahman Mohammed will have host Egypt, Algeria, Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique to contend with when hostilities began.

The Nigerian U16 side will look to better its third place finish in the 2009 edition of championship held in Maputo, Mozambique with team Head Coach Johnson combing the nooks and cranies of Nigeria for quality young talents.

Coaches Johnson and Mohammed were at different times captain of the Nigeria senior mens team DTigers with Johnson captaining DTigers in 1997 and 1998 Mohammed on the other hand was captain of DTigers to the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Australia, the task to help mould a future team rest on their shoulders.

Group-B of the Cadet Afrobasket for Men comprises; Mali, Congo, South Africa, Angola, Libya and Tunisia.

Nigeria also draw Egypt in the Women version of the continent Cadet championship in Group-A.

Other countries in Group-A for the championship that will run from July 22 to 31 includes; Guinea, Algeria and Mozambique while Group-B is made-up of Mali, Zimbabwe, Democratic Republic of Congo Angola and Tunisia.


*****************************************************
  PERU   


Standings - Superior
Superior Standings
 1. Real Club 17-0 
 2. Regatas 14-3 
 3. Escuela Fap 12-5 
 4. Inmaculada 9-7 
 5. Centro Naval 8-8 
 6. El Bosque 7-9 
 7. Ejercito 6-9 
 8. San Augustin 6-10 
 9. San Marcos 3-13 
 10. Universitario 0-15 


*****************************************************
  POLAND   


Slask Wroclaw tab Slavisa Bogavac - by Eurobasket News
Slask Wroclaw penned a deal with Slavisa Bogavac (200-G/F-80, agency: BeoExcell). The 31-year-old forward started the previous season in Sloga Kraljevo in Serbia. He tallied 17.3 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in A League. Later the Serbian forward moved to AZS Koszalin. Slavisa Bogavac notched 11.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game in PLK. Slavisa Bogavac was named into Eurobasket.com All-Bosmans Team. The forward participated at PLK All-Star Game. Previously Slavisa Bogavac had stints with Masinac Kraljevo, Egronom Best Nis, Zdravlje Leskovac, Mitrovica, Ohrid, ISS Sportino.



Poland and Russia exchange victories in Szczyrk - by Eurobasket News
Polish and Russian U18 National Teams played two test games in Szczyrk. The teams traded victories. The first game turned into a one-way traffic. Poland claimed a comprehensive 88:54 victory at the end. Poland used a 30:9 run in the third term to clear off for good. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) fired 26 points to lead the effort. Michal Michalak (194-G-93) added 16 points, while Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) contributed 12 points in the victory. Yury Karpenko (185-G-93) answered with 8 points for Russia. Alexander Zakharov (200-G-93) delivered 7 points in the loss.
But Russia avenged the loss in the second game of the series. They got to a strong start and grabbed a 6-point lead after ten minutes. Poland got within two points at the final intermission but Russia exploded with 30 points in the fourth term and ran away with the victory at the end. Michal Michalak dropped 32 points for Poland. Jakub Koelner (180-G-93) netted 12 points in the defeat.


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  PORTUGAL   


Sergio Silva at the highest level - by Hugo Carvalho
The international referee Sergio Silva goes in June to Poland, where he will participate in the Senior Women's European Championship.

With only 31 years old, Sergio is a reference and already has a track record internationally of great merit.

Sergio Silva is without doubt the image of the future of european and world arbitration.

He is a referee accustomed to great challenges and is well respected by everyone, players, managers and public.

He knows the game because he was also a great player.

He is an example that all young people should follow.

We wish him good luck.

By Hugo Carvalho


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  PUERTO RICO   


Jose Juan Barea wins NBA title with Mavs - by Eurobasket News
Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) finished wonderful season just few hours ago. The Puerto Rican guard and his team Dallas Mavericks won the NBA title after 95-105 victory in Miami in Game Six. It means that Dallas won the Finals with 4-2 and it is their first NBA title ever. Barea shined with 15 points and 5 assists in this meeting.
Jose Juan Barea appeared 102 times in NBA this season and was one of the best Dallas players. He averaged 9.4 points, 1.9 rebounds and 3.8 assists. Dallas finished regular season with 57-25 record. They eliminated Portland (4-2) in the Western Conference Quarterfinals and after that Dallas swept the defending champion LA Lakers in the Semifinals (4-0). In the Western Conference Finals, Dallas edged OC Thunder with almost perfect 4-1. Jose Juan Barea is a member of Dallas since 2006.


Here is the full game report of Game Six:

Finals Game 6: Miami Heat - Dallas M. 95-105 (27-32, 24-21, 21-28, 23-24)

Date: June 12, 2011
For Dirk Nowitzki, the resume is complete. He's an NBA champion. For LeBron James, the agonizing wait continues for at least one more year. Avenging what happened five years ago in perfect turnabout style, the Dallas Mavericks won their first NBA title by winning Game 6 of these finals in Miami 105-95 on Sunday night - celebrating on the Heat's home floor, just as Dwyane Wade and his team did to them in the 2006 title series. Jason Terry scored 27 points, Nowitzki added 21 and the Mavericks topped the Miami Heat 105-95 in Game 6 of the NBA finals on Sunday night. The Mavericks won four of the series' last five games, a turnabout that could not have been sweeter after seeing the Heat celebrate their first title in Dallas after Game 6 of the 2006 finals. 'Tonight,' Terry said, 'we got vindication.' James did not. Not even close, and a year unlike any other ended they way they all have so far - with him still waiting for an NBA title. He scored 21 points for Miami, shook a few hands afterward, and departed before most of the Mavs tugged on their championship hats and T-shirts. Chris Bosh had 19, Mario Chalmers 18 and Dwyane Wade 17 for the Heat. Mavs coach Rick Carlisle joined a highly elite group, those with NBA titles as both a player and a head coach. Only 10 other men are on that list, including the presumably retired-for-good Phil Jackson, one of Carlisle's mentors in K.C. Jones, and Heat President Pat Riley - who led Miami past Dallas in 2006, and was the mastermind of what the Heat did last summer by getting James, Wade and Bosh on the same team with an eye on becoming a dynasty. It might still happen, of course. But even after 72 wins this season, including playoffs, the Heat lost the last game. And that means this year was a disappointment - except to just about everyone else in the NBA, or so it would seem. Hating the Heat became the NBA's craze this season, and the team knew it had no shortage of critics, everyone from Cleveland (where 'Cavs for Mavs' shirts were popular during these finals) to Chicago (the city James and Wade both flirted with last summer) and just about every place in between lining up to take shots at Miami. Given their newfound popularity, meet the new America's Team. Sorry, Cowboys - your long-held moniker might have to be ceded to your city's NBA club. When it was over, Mavs owner Mark Cuban ran onto the court to hug Carlisle, then punched the air and whooped. Dallas took control in the second half after some wild back-and-forths in the opening two quarters. Miami took its last lead of the game - the season - just 64 seconds into the second half, lost it 16 seconds later and chased the Mavericks the rest of the way. They never caught them. Jason Kidd, at 38 years old, got his first championship. Nowitzki got his at 32, Terry at 33. They were featured on the video screen in their building in Dallas during this series on what seemed like a constant loop, each posing with the NBA trophy and looking longingly at it, standing mere inches from it, as if to say 'so close, yet so far away.' No more. It's theirs. Nowitzki sealed it with 2:27 left, hitting a jumper near the Miami bench to put Dallas up 99-89, and some fans actually began leaving. Nowitzki walked to the Mavs' side slowly, right fist clenched and aloft. He knew it. Everyone did. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra implored his team to foul in the final minute, and even then, they couldn't catch the Mavericks. 'All those unique individual stories is what propelled us to this victory,' Terry said. Dallas expected a big early push from Miami, and the Mavs' suspicions were proved correct. James made his first four shots, and the Heat raced out to a 20-11 lead. It was erased - and then some - quickly, as soon as Dallas went to the zone defense that befuddled Miami again. Dallas needed 5 1/2 minutes to rip off a 21-4 run, making 9 of 12 shots during the stretch. And much of that came with Nowitzki on the bench with two fouls, the first time he's been whistled for more than one in the opening quarter of a playoff game this season. The Mavs were off and running. DeShawn Stevenson made a pair of 3-pointers within a span of 24 seconds to give Dallas a 40-28 lead with 9:42 left in the half. Dallas turned Miami's first six turnovers into 14 points, and the hundreds of blue-clad Mavs fans stood and roared, with Cuban waving his arms as if to lead the cheers from behind his team's bench. Things turned quickly and got heated for good measure. Miami scored the next 14 points to reclaim the lead at 42-40, a streak snapped only after Stevenson, Udonis Haslem and Chalmers got technicals with 6:25 left in the half after a midcourt mini-melee with mostly amounted to some words and a couple of shoves. 'A player will not automatically be suspended for leaving the bench if he has already left the bench because a timeout was called,' the NBA announced later in the game. 'However, we need to review the circumstances of this particular incident, which we will do, after the game.' So the NBA will watch replays. The Heat, they probably won't - not for a long while. They had chances to take command and wasted them all. The Heat missed 13 of their 33 free throws, let the Mavericks score 27 points off turnovers and simply could not get a rebound in the final minutes. Nowitzki finished 9 for 27, and the Mavs still won. He was 1 for 12 in the first half, and they were still ahead, 53-51, thanks largely to Terry's 19 points on 8-of-10 shooting, along with a 17-4 edge in points off turnovers. Plus, after James got off to such a fast start, he had two points in the final 19-plus minutes of the half. James didn't score in the second half until a layup with 1:49 remained in the third - his first field-goal attempt since 1:05 remained in the half. Kidd made a 3-pointer late in the period, pushing the Dallas lead to 79-71, and it seemed like the only people standing in the arena were the players, referees, Cuban and a few guys around the Dallas bench. It was 81-72 entering the fourth, after Ian Mahinmi made a foul-line jumper as time expired in the third, just his third basket of the entire series. None were bigger. The Mavs could taste a title. When the Mavericks took a 2-0 lead in Dallas during the '06 finals, plans for their victory parade were announced. The Mavs didn't win another game in that series. Now, that parade will finally happen. And when it's over, then the league's uncertainty will truly begin. Labor strife likely awaits, and although more talks geared toward movement on a new deal are scheduled for this week, both owners and players are bracing for a lockout to begin once the current collective bargaining agreement expires June 30. What happens with the next deal may affect the Heat more than anyone. Some owners will insist on a hard cap, rolled-back salaries and, potentially, trying to bust some current deals - which could break up the Big 3 before get another chance to win a title together. A gloomy end to the season may bring an even gloomier offseason for Miami. 'Every situation has felt like it was an our-back-against-the-wall situation,' James said Sunday morning, hours before Game 6 began. 'We've been able to figure it out and find our way through and scratch our way through. This is the last test. This is the last pop quiz for us that we need to pass in order to make it all worth it.' They didn't pass. So therefore, it wasn't all worth it. Except, of course, from the Dallas perspective. Of the principal characters from the 2006 series, only Cuban, Nowitzki and Terry remain from the Mavericks' side, and for them, the beginning of this championship celebration seemed sweeter than even they could have imagined. Terry won't have to get his tattoo - the one of the NBA championship trophy - removed, which he vowed to have done if Miami won this series. Nowitzki will never be in the conversation of 'Best player without a title' again. James is clearly the one with that most-unwanted label now. *Courtesy of www.chron.com



Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Angel Daniel VASSALLO
  Guaynabo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 23.8
 1. Vassallo, Guaynabo23.8 
 2. Ramos, Quebradillas23.7 
 3. Dalmau, Bayamon21.3 
 4. Johnson, Humacao21.2 
 5. Ayuso, Arecibo19.7 
 6. Villegas, Coamo19.5 
 7. Romero, Mayaguez18.6 
 8. Harris, San German18.0 
 9. Randolph, Isabela17.6 
 10. Carmona, Mayaguez17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Manuel Antonio NARVAEZ
  Coamo
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 12.6
 1. Narvaez, Coamo12.6 
 2. Harris, San German12.4 
 3. Randolph, Isabela12.2 
 4. Pruitt, Guaynabo11.5 
 5. Ramos, Quebradillas10.8 
 6. Lloreda, San G.10.3 
 7. Romero, Mayaguez9.7 
 8. Sweetney, Santurce9.4 
 9. Shannon, Bayamon9.2 
 10. Rickert, Bayamon9.2 
Assists Per Game
 Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 6
 1. Dalmau, Bayamon6.0 
 2. Brown, Quebradillas5.9 
 3. Clemente, Humacao4.8 
 4. Guzman, Guaynabo4.8 
 5. Clinch, Isabela4.5 
 6. Apodaca, Quebradil.4.4 
 7. Rivera, Mayaguez4.1 
 8. Bruton, Quebradill.4.0 
 9. Vega, Coamo4.0 
 10. Copeland, San G.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Darnell HINSON
  Isabela
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Hinson, Isabela1.8 
 2. Robinson, Mayaguez1.6 
 3. Rivera, Mayaguez1.6 
 4. Clinch, Isabela1.5 
 5. Harris, San German1.4 
 6. Carmona, Mayaguez1.4 
 7. Santiago, Santurce1.4 
 8. Dalmau, Bayamon1.4 
 9. Hodge, Santurce1.4 
 10. Ayuso, Arecibo1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Kleon PENN
  Humacao
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Penn, Humacao2.6 
 2. Santiago, Arecibo2.1 
 3. Traylor, Bayamon2.0 
 4. Romero, Mayaguez1.9 
 5. Sanchez, Santurce1.9 
 6. Aubry, Arecibo1.7 
 7. Lee, Bayamon1.7 
 8. Harris, San German1.5 
 9. Randolph, Isabela1.4 
 10. Robinson, Mayagu.1.2 


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  RUSSIA   


Stats Leaders - Superleague A
Points Per Game
 Keith LANGFORD
  Khimky
  (193-G/F-83)
  Avg: 18.2
 1. Langford, Khimky18.2 
 2. Lampe, Unics18.0 
 3. Baxter, Enisey16.2 
 4. Keyru, Dynamo16.0 
 5. Domercant, Spart.15.6 
 6. Williams, Enisey15.3 
 7. Vyaltsev, Triumph14.4 
 8. Labovic, Enisey14.2 
 9. Wilkinson, Lokomot.13.9 
 10. Chalmers, Lokom.13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Alexey ZHUKANENKO
  Dynamo
  (210-F-86)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Zhukanenko, Dynamo7.4 
 2. Lampe, Unics7.3 
 3. Baxter, Enisey7.0 
 4. Khryapa, CSKA6.6 
 5. Beverley, Spart.6.4 
 6. Massey, Lokomotiv6.2 
 7. Brezec, Krasnie6.1 
 8. Wilkinson, Lokomot.6.1 
 9. Monya, Khimky6.1 
 10. Paunic, N.Novgorod5.4 
Assists Per Game
 Marcus WILLIAMS
  Enisey
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Williams, Enisey6.8 
 2. Bremer, Krasnie6.5 
 3. Vyaltsev, Triumph5.4 
 4. Ponkrashov, Spart.4.5 
 5. Khvostov, Dynamo4.1 
 6. Popovic, Unics3.9 
 7. Beverley, Spart.3.6 
 8. Planinic, Khimky3.6 
 9. Samoylenko, Unics3.6 
 10. Chalmers, Lokom.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Patrick BEVERLEY
  Spart.
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Beverley, Spart.1.8 
 2. Voronov, Dynamo1.8 
 3. Lyday, Unics1.6 
 4. Bremer, Krasnie1.6 
 5. Khryapa, CSKA1.5 
 6. Komarovskiy, Eni.1.4 
 7. Pashutin, Unics1.4 
 8. Wilkinson, Lokomot.1.4 
 9. Ponkrashov, Spart.1.3 
 10. Labovic, Enisey1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Sasha KAUN
  CSKA
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Kaun, CSKA1.3 
 2. Yakovenko, N.Nov.1.0 
 3. Monya, Khimky1.0 
 4. Varlamov, Triumph0.9 
 5. Likhodey, Triumph0.8 
 6. Lampe, Unics0.8 
 7. Antonov, N.Novgor.0.8 
 8. Zhukanenko, Dynamo0.8 
 9. Vasiliev, Lokomotiv0.7 
 10. Rizvic, Unics0.7 


Spartak St. Petersburg denies rumors about Kirilenko - by Eurobasket News
Spartak St. Petersburg sports director Alexey Karvanen has denied the reports that his club had been offering Utah Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) a two-year contract worth $12.5 million.

'I didn't make any contract offers to Kirilenko. I also have no idea whence did these allegations about an amount of $12.5 million for two years. It's more than our two-year budget. Perhaps, we have some new sponsors, about whom I'm not aware still?', stated Karvanen to Gazeta.Ru.

Courtesy of www.sports.ru

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  SERBIA   


Dusan Djordjevic moves from Krka to Oostende - by Eurobasket News
Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83, agency: Beo Basket) will play in Belgium next season. The Serbian point guard signed a deal with Oostende. Djordjevic heads to Belgium from Krka Novo Mesto, where he ended wonderful season last weekend. He helped Krka to defend the championship title in Slovenia and they also won the Slovenian Cup and EuroChallenge title earlier this season. Djordjevic was named Eurobasket.com All-Slovenian League Guard of the Year -11.
Dusan Djordjevic appeared 21 times in Slovenian league this season averaging 8.7 points, 2.9 rebounds and 4 assists. In EuroChallenge, his numbers increased to 9.6 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 3.2 apg. Krka competed in Adriatic league as well, where Djordjevic added 8.7 ppg, 3 rpg and 3.3 apg. They reached Semifinals.
Before Krka, where he joined last summer, Dusan Djordjevic played one season for Union Olimpija. In 2008/09, he was a member of Bosna ASA BHT. In the past, Djordjevic also played for Vojvodina, Iraklis, Spartak St Petersburg, Lokomotiv Rostov and Radnicki.

BC Donetsk extends deal with Head Coach Sasa Obradovic - by Eurobasket News
BC Donetsk announced signing of one-year contract extension with their Head Coach Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ). The Serbian specialist took over the team last summer. They were regular season champions in Ukrainian Superleague with 37-11 record. BC Donetsk reached Playoff Finals after that, but Budivelnyk outplayed them in crucial Game Seven 62-69 for 4-3 win in the series. Donetsk eliminated Kryvbasbasket (3-0) and Hoverla (3-0) earlier in the Playoffs.
Sasa Obradovic already coached in Ukraine before Donetsk. On season 2008/09 he was a Head Coach of Kyiv. They reached Ukrainian Cup Finals that season and Obradovic was invited to Superleague All-Star Game. From 2005 to 2008, Sasa Obradovic worked in Germany with RheinEnergie Koln. They won the title in 2006 and next year reached the Semifinals. Also in 2006, Koln played in FIBA EuroCup Quarterfinals.

Karsiyaka keeps Jovo Stanojevic for another season - by Eurobasket News
Turkish team Karsiyaka announced signing of one-year contract extension with Jovo Stanojevic (208-C-77, agency: Beo Basket). The Serbian big guy appeared 32 times in TBL this season averaging 12.6 points, 5 rebounds and 1.3 assists. He also added 15 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 1.6 apg for 16 EuroChallenge games. Stanojevic was named Eurobasket.com All-EuroChallenge Honorable Mention -11.
Last season Jovo Stanojevic also spent in Turkey. He was a member of Kepez registering 17.2 ppg, 6.6 rpg and 1.8 apg for 29 games. In April last year he moved to Al Kuwait, where he finished 2009/10 season. He was named Asia-Basket.com All-Arab Club Championships Best Center -10. In TBL, Stanojevic was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League 2nd Team -10. In the past, Stanojevic played for Vojvodina, Kyiv, Besiktas, Mega Aqua Monta, Partizan and Crvena Zvezda. From 2002 to 2007, he played for ALBA Berlin winning many trophies and personal awards.

Serbia U19 rally past Benetton Junior Team in Treviso - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U19 - Benetton Juniors 67:55

Serbian U19 National Team played their third game at the Adidas Eurocamp in Italy. They held off Benetton Junior team tonight to improve at 1-2 record. Nemanja Besovic (220-C-92) stepped up with 10 points and 6 rebounds to lead Serbians.
The Balkan team got to the better start. They recorded a 17:10 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the pressure throughout the second frame. Serbia posted a 35:24 halftime advantage. Benetton started to adjust their offence in the third quarter. They cut the deficit at 8-point mark with one quarter remaining. But Serbia outgunned the hosts in the final period and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Bogic Vujosevic (189-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) provided 9 points for the winners. Bogdan Bogdanovic (198-G-92) added 8 points and 6 steals for Serbia. Jakub Wojciechowski (195-F-93) answered with game-high 16 points for Benetton. Samuel Deguara (224-C-91) netted 13 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in defeat.

Serbia U19: Nemanja Besovic 10, Bogic Vujosevic 9, Bogdan Bogdanovic 8
Benetton Jr.: Jakub Wojciechowski 16, Samuel Deguara 13


Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket
Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League 1st Team 2011
#s#
Jan Vesely
Vesely
Miljan Pavkovic
Pavkovic
Curtis Jerrells
Jerrells
Michael Lee
Lee
Rasko Katic
Katic
#e#5

Player of the Year: Jan Vesely (211-F-90) of Partizan
Guard of the Year: Curtis Jerrells (185-G-87) of Partizan
Forward of the Year: Jan Vesely (211-F-90) of Partizan
Center of the Year: Rasko Katic (208-F-80) of Partizan
Most Improved Player of the Year: Nemanja Nedovic (192-G-91) of Crvena Zvezda
Bosman Player of the Year: Jan Vesely (211-F-90) of Partizan
Import Player of the Year: Curtis Jerrells (185-G-87) of Partizan
Domestic Player of the Year: Miljan Pavkovic (178-G-81) of Hemofarm
Defensive Player of the Year: Michael Lee (207-F-86) of Radnicki
Coach of the Year: Vlada Jovanovic of Partizan

1st Team
G: Miljan Pavkovic (178-81) of Hemofarm
G: Curtis Jerrells (185-87) of Partizan
F: Jan Vesely (211-90) of Partizan
F: Michael Lee (207-86) of Radnicki
F: Rasko Katic (208-80) of Partizan

2nd Team
G: Steven Markovic (190-85) of Radnicki
G: Mladen Jeremic (196-88) of Hemofarm
F/G: Marko Cakarevic (200-88) of Radnicki
F: James Gist (203-86) of Partizan
C: Nathan Jawai (207-86) of Partizan

Honorable Mention
Dusan Kecman (197-F-77) of Partizan
Dragan Milosavljevic (198-G-89) of Partizan
Boris Savovic (206-F-87) of Hemofarm
Filip Covic (180-G-89) of FMP
Mile Ilic (215-C-84) of FMP
Nemanja Nedovic (192-G-91) of Crvena Zvezda
Uros Nikolic (207-F/C-87) of Crvena Zvezda
Uros Lucic (207-C-83) of Beograd
Slobodan Dundjerski (190-G-88) of Beograd
Marko Ljubicic (197-F-87) of Metalac
Branko Milisavljevic (193-G-76) of Mega Vizura

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Miljan Pavkovic (178-81) of Hemofarm
G: Mladen Jeremic (196-88) of Hemofarm
F/G: Marko Cakarevic (200-88) of Radnicki
F: Boris Savovic (206-87) of Hemofarm
F: Rasko Katic (208-80) of Partizan

All-Bosmans Team
G: Miljan Pavkovic (178-81) of Hemofarm
G: Boris Bakic (194-86) of Crvena Zvezda
G: Slobodan Pejovic (193-86) of Napredak
F: Jan Vesely (211-90) of Partizan
C: Dusan Cantekin (222-90) of Mega Vizura

All-Defensive Team
Curtis Jerrells (185-G-87) of Partizan
Slobodan Dundjerski (190-G-88) of Beograd
Michael Lee (207-F-86) of Radnicki
Marko Cakarevic (200-F/G-88) of Radnicki
Boris Savovic (206-F-87) of Hemofarm



*****************************************************
  SWEDEN   


Kenny Grant wins the title in France - by Eurobasket News
Kenny Grant (188-G-82, college: Davidson) signed in France last summer and it was a great move for the Swedish guard. Grant and his team Nancy won the ProA title thanks to 76-74 thriller win against Cholet in the Big Final. He helped Nancy with 12 points in this meeting. Grant appeared 35 times this season in ProA averaging 9 points, 1.9 rebounds and 2.6 assists. In EuroChallenge, he added 7.4 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 1.3 apg for 8 games.
The Big Final was tied at 74-74, when John Linehan made a basket for Nancy with 3 seconds to go. The defending champion was unable to score in their last possession and they stayed without the trophy this season. Nancy won the title also in 2008. Nancy took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 24-20. But Cholet won second period 22-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. As mentioned above, the game was decided in the finish and Linehan was a hero. He was also named MVP of the Big Final. Nancy made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. Strangely Cholet outrebounded Sluc Nancy 41-28 including a 16-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Sluc Nancy especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. American guard John Linehan stepped up and scored 15 points and 4 assists for the winners and naturalized Cameroonian forward Victor Samnick chipped in 15 points. Five Sluc Nancy players scored in double figures. At the losing side Dominican guard Sammy Mejia responded with 15 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws) and American guard DeMarcus Nelson scored 15 points. Cholet's coach Erman Kunter rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Nancy was No.2 in regular season with 21-9 record. They eliminated Hyeres-Toulon in the Quarterfinals (2-1) and ASVEL in the Semis (2-1).

Uppsala grab Rhys Carter - by Eurobasket News
Uppsala grab Rhys Carter (190-G-84) for 2011/2012 season. The Australian player is currently with North Adelaide Rockets and will stay with the team until the end of summer.
Rhys Carter recently scored 14 points and made 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals as his team won over Forestville Eagles.
In 2009-2010 Rhys already played in Sweden. He was the best Stealer in the League for Gothia Basket (Sweden-Basketligan, starting five) and averaged 16.3ppg, 5.0rpg, Assists-5 (4.9apg), Steals-1 (2.9spg), FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.7%.
Later he moved to Adelaide 36ers and recorded 20 points at the Regular Season Round 24. Eighth ranked Adelaide 36ers won an overtime thriller edging 6th ranked Gold Coast Blaze by one point 102-101. The game took place in Broadbeach. But the guests from Findon were better at the end. Gold Coast Blaze was tied after three quarters and then recorded another tie at the end of regular time. They were eventually defeated in overtime 4-5. It was a good game for the former international forward Jacob Holmes who saved his team from a defeat with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds. The former international guard Rhys Carter contributed with 20 points for the winners.


Gustav Nystrom pens deal with 08 - by Eurobasket News
Gustav Nystrom (189-G-89, college: Hope, MI) pens deal with 08 and will play for the team in 2011/2012 season. The local player moved from LF Basket, where he played last year.
The Swedish Guard started his career in 2005-2006 for Lulea BK (Basketettan) and averaged 9.0ppg, 3rpg, 1.5apg, 3.5bpg, 1.0spg. In 2006-2007 he improved to 12.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg, 1.9spg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 17.3%, FT: 73.1%. In 2007-2008 for Lulea BG (Basketettan, starting five) his stats read 17.0ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.7apg, 2.8spg, 2FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 70.3%. In 2008-2009 he moved to Hope (MI) (NCAA3) and then in 2009-2010 moved to Plannja Basket Lulea (Basketligan). In 40 games he averaged 3.8ppg, 2.5rpg. The last season Gustav Nystrom played for LF Basket (Basketligan) and showed 4.8ppg, 1.9rpg.
He recorded 13 points at the Regular Season Round 11 when LF Basket overcame Sodertalje 87-66. Recently he collected 11 points and 8 rebounds at the Quarter-Finals Round 1 when LF Basket beat Boras 93-85. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-14. But Boras Basket won third quarter 24-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. LF Basket brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks.


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  TURKEY   


Erdemir signs Mutlu Akpnar - by Eurobasket News
Mutlu Akpinar (203-C/F-83) is a new member of Erdemir. The Turkish PF/C signed a one-year deal with the club. Akpinar spent last season in Banvit, where he had 7.5 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 39 TBL games. He also added 5.8 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 6 games in EuroCup. Banvit played two games also in Euroleague qualifications, where Akpinar had 14.5 ppg and 3 rpg.
Before Banvit, Mutlu Akpinar spent 10 years with Turk Telekom Ankara. He never was one of their leading players, but always was very useful in rotation. He helped Turk Telekom win the Turkish Cup in 2008. In 2006 and 2009, Akpinar was a member of the Turkish National Team. He also played for U21, U18 and U17 Turkey in the past.
Erdemir finished the season as No.12 in TBL with 10-20 record.

Efes Pilsen keeps Guler through 2013 - by Eurobasket News
Among the teams confirming players for next season the fastest, Efes Pilsen on Monday announced a new two-year agreement with guard Sinan Guler (193-G-83, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Carroll, MT), who has already been with the club three seasons. Guler (1.92 meters, 27 years old) is coming off his best Turkish Airlines Euroleague season so far, having averaged 3.9 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1 steal in just 15 minutes per game off the bench. Guler made 55.9% of his two-point shots, the second-highest accuracy rate among Efes regulars, and he tied for eighth among all Euroleague players with 2.4 steals per 40 minutes. Guler had previously played for Besiktas and Darussafaka, both of Istanbul, before joining Efes, with whome he won the 2009 Turkish League and national cup crowns. Last summer, Guler won the silver medal at the 2010 World Championships with the Turkish national team.

Courtesy of Euroleague

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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Aska to play in Canada - by David Edole
MURRAY, Ky. --New Murray State basketball coach Steve Prohm is anxiously awaiting his team's trip to Canada in August, seeing it as a chance for more practices and low-pressure evaluations headed in to his first season as head coach.

The Racers are scheduled to play three exhibition games in Toronto from Aug. 4-8. Prohm told The Courier-Journal that the 10 days of practice that go along with the trip will enable him to evaluate players.

All 12 scholarship players will make the trip. The Racers return their leading scorer, Isaiah Canaan (11.7 points per game), and rebounder, Ivan Aska (200-F-90) (5.2).

The new players include four freshmen, guards Jaylen Bland and Zay Jackson, forward Tyler Rambo and center Harley Nussman, and forward Stacy Wilson, a junior-college transfer.



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  UKRAINE   


BC Donetsk extends deal with Head Coach Sasa Obradovic - by Eurobasket News
BC Donetsk announced signing of one-year contract extension with their Head Coach Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ). The Serbian specialist took over the team last summer. They were regular season champions in Ukrainian Superleague with 37-11 record. BC Donetsk reached Playoff Finals after that, but Budivelnyk outplayed them in crucial Game Seven 62-69 for 4-3 win in the series. Donetsk eliminated Kryvbasbasket (3-0) and Hoverla (3-0) earlier in the Playoffs.
Sasa Obradovic already coached in Ukraine before Donetsk. On season 2008/09 he was a Head Coach of Kyiv. They reached Ukrainian Cup Finals that season and Obradovic was invited to Superleague All-Star Game. From 2005 to 2008, Sasa Obradovic worked in Germany with RheinEnergie Koln. They won the title in 2006 and next year reached the Semifinals. Also in 2006, Koln played in FIBA EuroCup Quarterfinals.

Maksym Pustozvonov officially in BC Donetsk - by Eurobasket News
Maksym Pustozvonov (200-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) finalized his move to BC Donetsk. Beobasket agency confirmed the deal. The Ukrainian forward signed a one-year deal with the Superleague runner-up. Pustozvonov arrives to Donetsk from Azovmash Mariupol, where he spent last season. He appeared 47 times in Superleague averaging 9.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists. In EuroCup, he added 14.4 ppg and 5.1 rpg. Donetsk also competed in VTB United League this season, where Pustozvonov had 7.5 ppg and 1.9 rpg. Before Azovmash, Pustozvonov spent couple of years with BC Kyiv.
Maksym Pustozvonov is active member of the Ukrainian National Team. During the Qualifications to European Championships 2011 he had 9.3 ppg, 1.6 rpg and 1.1 apg for 8 games. He also played for U20 and U18 Ukraine in the past. Pustozvonov was named Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Honorable Mention -11. Last season, he was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Most Improved Player of the Year.


Azovmash extend contracts with three players - by Eurobasket News
Azovmash extended the contracts of Bogdan Bayda (193-G-89), Aleksandr Shaposhnikov (196-G/F-82, agency: New Trend Agency) and Maxim Ivshyn (207-C-86, agency: Beo Basket). Bogdan Bayda averaged 0.7 points per game in EuroCup. In VTB-League the 22-year-old guard notched 1.5 points per appearance. In Superleague Bogdan Bayda posted 3.2 points and 1.3 rebounds.
Aleksandr Shaposhnikov joined Azovmash in March. The guard recorded 4.3 points and 1.1 assists per appearance in Superleague.
Maxim Ivshyn became the player of Azovmash in January 2010. Last season the centre averaged 1.5 points, 1.6 boards and 1.0 block per game in EuroCup. In VTB-League Maxim Ivshyn posted 1.4 points and 1.4 rebounds per game. In Superleague his stats came up to 2.9 points and 1.6 rebounds per appearance.


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


BBL Basketball Back In Brum For 2012-13 - by Paul Nilsen
The British Basketball League (BBL) are pleased to announce that they have granted an exclusive right to Oaks Consultancy to operate a Birmingham franchise from the start of 2012/13 season.

The introduction of the franchise marks a welcome return to BBL Club basketball for a City steeped in tradition in the sport.

BBL Chairman Paul Blake said 'We are delighted to have secured a new franchise in Birmingham as this meets one of our key strategic targets for franchise development. Birmingham is a basketball city which is already synonymous with some of the biggest games in the BBL calendar, we have every confidence that the new franchise will develop in to a significant player in UK Basketball'

Mark Walker of Oaks Consultancy added 'We are extremely excited about the opportunity to develop a successful BBL franchise in the City. The club will have a strong community ethos and work will be starting immediately in this area through an extensive community programme. We will be announcing the name of the team later in the summer of 2011 with the senior men's BBL team coming on line in September 2012. We recognise that a significant amount of basketball is already ongoing in the City and are looking forward to working alongside the existing basketball stakeholders'.


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  WBA   


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


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  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U19   


All-Stars cruise past Croatia U19 - by Eurobasket News
Eurocamp All-Stars - Croatia U19 103:74

Eurocamp All-Stars celebrated a convincing victory over Croatian U19 National Team on the final day of Adidas Eurocamp in Treviso. Edwin Jackson (191-G-89), David Jelinek (194-G-90) and Augusto Cesar Lima (206-C-91) stepped up with 18 points each to pace All-Stars.
The teams got to a flying start. They scored eagerly throughout the opening frame. Eurocamp All-Stars posted a 28:24 lead after ten minutes. All-Stars stepped on the gas in the second period. They erupted for 30 points in the second term to clear off to a 19-point lead at halftime 58:39. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term. All-Stars ensured a 19-point advantage with one quarter remaining. All-Stars outscored Croatia in the fourth frame and celebrated a comprehensive win at the end. Mindaugas Kuzminskas (205-F-89) provided 15 points in the victory. Boris Barac (205-F-92) answered with 13 points for Croatia. Toni Katic (185-G-92) and Vukocic chipped in 10 points each in the loss.

Eurocamp All-Stars: Edwin Jackson 18, David Jelinek 18, Augusto Cesar Lima 18
Croatia U19: Boris Barac 13, Toni Katic 10, Vukocic 10




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Women News

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  ALBANIA - Women  


Switzerland cruises past Albania in Division B - by Eurobasket News
SWITZERLAND - ALBANIA 97-48

Switzerland was too strong for Albania handing them huge 97-48 loss. The hosts finished EuroBasket 2011 Division B as the second ranked team of Group B with 6-2 record. Albania on the other side was not able to deliver a single win (0-8). Alexia Rol (170-G-82) scored 17 points for the hosts with no miss from the field. Marielle Giroud (180-F-87) had double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. She reached valuation 31 and was the MVP of this meeting. Karen Twehues (182-G-83, college: Cincinnati) was third scorer in victory with 15 pts. Albania had only one player with double digits in scoring and it was Fabiola Permeti (176-G-87) with exactly 10 pts. Karolina Kostallari (187-F/C-79) (6 rebs) and Enisa Semanjaku (88) netted 9 points each. Switzerland was dominating from the very beginning and they kept increasing the lead after each frame. Quarters: 25-6, 21-9, 34-17, 17-16. It is important to mention that Albania committed 39 turnovers in this meeting.

Switzerland: Alexia Rol 17, Marielle Giroud 16+10 boards, Karen Twehues 15
Albania: Fabiola Permeti 10, Karolina Kostallari 9+6 boards, Enisa Semanjaku 9

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


SEABL: Bendigo Lady Braves unveil future stars - by Eurobasket News
The Bendigo Lady Braves are looking to the future, blooding a number of talented youngsters in this years SEABL womens basketball action.
Already the Lady Braves have promoted five young players from Bendigo Lady Braves D-League squad, and look likely to continue putting forward up-and-coming players as the season progresses.

Lady Braves head coach and Bendigo Braves director of coaching Lukas Carey said the promotion of younger players allowed them to understand the requirements of senior basketball.

Weve promoted five at this stage, but will be bringing up another couple in the next few weeks to make it six or seven for the season, he said.

We just looked at the talent that weve got and decided that they would benefit from experiencing the next level, including the full week of preparation, including scouting and training.

It gives the girls a full understanding of what is required in senior basketball and has really been of great benefit to all of them.

Two players who have relished their opportunity to represent the Lady Braves at senior level are Nicole Goodridge (172-G) and Tahnee Cannon.

Both players are new to the Bendigo ranks this year, but have proven on court they have what it takes to be some of Bendigos future basketball stars.

The players have proven themselves in the D-league competition by posting good numbers and have earned court time in the SEABL womens competition.

Goodridge, who made the move to Bendigo this year from Melbourne, said she was loving the country basketball experience.

Its a massive step up from what Ive been playing and its just such a great experience to learn from the players who are in the team, she said.

The crowds are massive and so much different to what Id been used to when I played with Bulleen in Melbourne.

The atmosphere of basketball in the country is so different.

Goodridge has excelled for the D-League side, averaging 11.3 points per game and 5.4 rebounds, and has earned more than 10 minutes of court time in the senior ranks.

The 19-year-old said the difference between D-League basketball and senior competition was the strength of opponents in SEABL matches.

Its the standard and its the physicality of the game as well as the speed.

Its so much tougher, but its just a great opportunity to learn from all the senior girls and they have all helped me out so much, as well as the coach, Lukas.

My aim is to step up to the Lady Braves and I moved to Bendigo for basketball, so Ill have to see how I go.

Tahnee Cannon relocated to Bendigo this year for university commitments, but has proven to be an asset for the Bendigo club.

Cannon, who was on the Albury Wodonga Bandits SEABL team list for two seasons, said she was enjoying the chance to have game time in both the D-League and the senior competition.

Its been really good for me this season because the past two seasons Ive spent on the bench with the Albury team.

I am happy that I have the opportunity to play D-League and play a lot of game time every week.

I love having the chance to play with the Lady Braves. They are a great bunch of girls and are really good at giving me constructive criticism and helping with my game.

Coach Carey said both players had been the standout performers in the D-League group this season.

The two new players to the club, Nicole and Tahnee, have been really impressive this season, he said.

They have really impressed the coaching staff this season and are the type of players we want to keep around the club.

Carey said several other young players have had their chance, or will get their opportunity in coming weeks.

The other players that have stood out, and have been Bendigo stalwarts, are Nadyia Hayes and Hannah Rifat, he said.

Our D-League captain Elise Strachan has also had her chance to play as well as Carly McRae and Yana Dellavadova.

As our experienced players make the decision to move on, we will have a number of players who will be ready to step up and its our job to make sure we blood that talent.
Courtesy of: bendigoadvertiser.com.au

SEABL: Spartans men and women lose both matches on the road - by Eurobasket News
THE Brisbane Spartans had a nightmare weekend on the road in the South East Australia Basketball League, losing four games out of four.
The men Spartans experienced lost to the Knox Raiders 106-71 and the Kilsyth Cobras 76-43 while the women lost to Knox 87-74 and Nunawading 63-58.

Spartans men entered the weekend with one of the toughest road trips, facing both their arch rivals the Raiders on Saturday night and Kilsyth on Sunday in their intimidating home stadiums but Brisbane's hopes were not lost as they were coming off to straight wins against NW Tasmania and Dandenong.

In the first game against Knox, the Spartans struggled early and the home side were able to jump out to an early lead following three straight three point baskets by Raiders guard CJ Massingale. Brisbane struggled from the field and as a result were down 32-16 at the end of the first quarter.
As the second quarter began, Knox continued their run and following a turnover from the visitors Massingale was able to take full advantage to run in an uncontested jam at the opposite end. But Brisbane were able to fight back through bigs Ash Cannan, Greg Vanderjagt and guard Cortez Groves to contain Knox to just a 17 point buffer at half-time.

The third quarter would follow a similar pattern to the first as the Raiders, following Massingale's lead were able to have their way with the Spartans to stretch the lead out to 34 points at the end of the third.

With the Raiders already having a seemingly unassailable 34 point lead entering the final quarter, Brisbane needed to find some kind of form that would help them the next day and they did that somewhat containing the Knox offence as Groves also found some shots. At the end of the day it was Knox's game finishing the match with a 35 point victory.

CJ Massingale was huge for the Raiders hitting eight 3-point field goals to end the game with 38 points, while Cortez Groves (19 points) and Ash Cannan (18 points) led the Spartans.

Following a disappointing loss the previous night, Brisbane attempted to get back on the winners list venturing into Kilsyth's home ground to take on the Cobras.

And as the match started the Spartans seemed to be over their bad form from the night before as some early scoring from Cannan and Vanderjagt were able to put the visitors up 13-8 with two minutes remaining in the first. But a Kilsyth timeout halted Brisbane and the home side were able to finish the quarter with a 9-0 to lead by four.

In the second quarter the Cobras simply strangled the visiting Spartans and with Tim Lang leading the Kilsyth defense with several blocks, the home side held Brisbane to only six points and score 22 of their own to have a 20 point difference at the half.

If the Spartans were to have any chance of recording a win they would have to improve on their offensive efforts from the second quarter, but as another Spartans turnover led to an Auryn McMillan dunk the game looked to be continuing in Kilsyth's favour. Brisbane in fact had a worst quarter then the second scoring just five points to Kilsyth's 21.

The visitors, facing another unassailable 36 point lead were just playing for pride in the fourth and were able to win the last quarter 19-16 but Kilsyth were huge victors in the game keeping Brisbane to their lowest score this season winning 76-43.

Kilsyth had three people in double figures but Tim Lang led the way with 16 points and 13 rebounds while Cortez Groves had 11 points for the Spartans.

Although losing to rivals Knox by 13 points and Nunawading by five, the Carina Leagues Club Lady Spartans showed some much needed improvement over the weekend despite not being able to record their second win for the season.

After losing to the Knox by 44 points last time the teams met in round five, the Lady Spartans faced a daunting task going into a match with the ladder leaders in their backyard. Brisbane were able to run with their opponents in the first five minutes but the Lady Raiders led by Amy Denson (186-F-84, college: Arizona St.) started to fire and ended the first quarter up 30-21.

The combination of Renae Camino (177-G-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Holly Smith led the Lady Spartans helped the visitors make a 14-5 run to find the lead but four points within 30 seconds to Knox guard Odette Andrew stopped the run. The Lady Spartans were still able to win the quarter and peg the Knox led back to six at half-time.

Entering the third quarter the match was poised to go either way but Denson found her way again in this quarter and supported by assists from Cassie Smith the Lady Raiders broke away somewhat from the visitors to have a 12 point lead heading into the last quarter.

Spectators were treated to a great battle between two of the league's best bigs as Lady Spartans Holly Smith fought back at Denson to give Brisbane a slight chance of a comeback. But a technical foul to the visitors gave Knox the chance they needed to close the game finishing 87-74 winners.

Holly Smith was outstanding for the Lady Spartans scoring 26 points and was supported by Renae Camino who had 22 points. Amy Denson scored big for Knox with 27 points.

The next day the Lady Spartans looked to build on their improved performance from the previous night to get a win against Nunawading at the Lady Spectres home court.

Early the visitors made a run on the home side as forward Rachel Pryor fired early on to lead the Lady Spartans to a 20-15 lead at the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter Brisbane pushed out their lead to nine points but led by Alice Kunek the Lady Spectres made a run back at the visitors but the Lady Spartans went into the half-time break with a three point buffer.

The third quarter was extremely tight as each team matched each other basket for basket and with Pryor and Kunek having good nights for their respective teams the Lady Spartans finished the third with a three point lead still intact.

Entering the final quarter the Lady Spartans had to contain the Lady Spectres from making a comeback at them but they were not able to do so as Kunek and Australian player Carly Wilson led a late run to hand Nunawading a five point victory and keep the Lady Spartans winless on the road trip.

Rachel Pryor had a massive game with 25 points for Brisbane while Alice Kunek had 18 for the Lady Spectres.

Both the men's and women Spartans return home this week to take on the Frankston Blues at the Rowland Cowan Basketball Stadium.
Courtesy of: couriermail.com.au

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  BALTIC LEAGUE - Women  


BWBL invites to the XVIIIth season! - by Eurobasket News
Baltic Women's Basketball League (BWBL) invites you to the XVIIIth season and presents the project of 2011-2012 Championship.

STAGE 1, REGULAR SEASON

Two rounds (home away).

DATES:

Begins - October 01-02, 2011; Ends February 04-05, 2012. Matches should be played on Wednesdays or Saturdays and Sundays. Schedule will depend on number of participants.

Preliminary participants:

1. Belarus Minsk 2006, Berezina- RCOR (both from Minsk), Olimpija, Viktorija (both from Grodno)

2. Latvia - RTU-Merks and LU (both from Riga)

3. Estonia - Eclex and KK Tallinna Ulikool (both from Tallinn)

4. Russia - Sireny (St.Petersburg)

5. Finland -

6. Ukraine - Tim- Skuf ( Kiev)

7. Lithuania - LKKA-Aistes (Kaunas) and Utena.

STAGE 2, ELITE DIVISION

All Games are played in Group A and Group B , two rounds (home - away).

DATES: Round 1 February 01-29, 2012, Round 2 March 03-25, 2012 (dates for extra matches April 01-10, 2012)

Preliminary participants of ELITE DIVISION: VICI-AISTES ( Kaunas), SPARTAK (St.Petersburg), Horizont (Minsk) Lemminkainen (Klaipda), TTT Riga (Riga), team from Poland and 2 or 3 best teams of regular season.

VARIATIONS TO ENTER FINAL FOUR TOURNAMENT

a) First two teams of Group A and Group B.

b) Winners of GroupA and Group B get direct tickets to FINAL FOUR, other teams plays for two rest tickets in such format: A2 B3 and B2- A3

C) Other options: A1- B4, A2-B3, A3-B2 and A4-B1, winners enters to final four.

STAGE 3, FINAL FOUR

All teams play two game (semi finals and final) and clear exact places.

DATES: April 20-22 or April 27-29, 2012.

First day, plays A1- B2 and B1-A2; Second day, losers of semi-finals plays in bronze medal game and winners of semi-final - in FINAL game for BWBL Champion title.
Courtesy of: www.bwbl.lt



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  BOSNIA - Women  


Bosnia too strong for Luxembourg in Division B - by Eurobasket News
BOSNIA - LUXEMBOURG 88-67

Bosnia was too strong for Luxembourg 88-67 in the last day of the EuroBasket 2011 Division B - Group B. Bosnia ended as third ranked team in this pool with 5-3 record. On the other side, Luxembourg is No.4 with two wins and six defeats. Lejla Bejtic (174-F-85) came up with 18 points for the winners, while Milica Deura (178-G-90) scored four less than her. Dragana Svitlica (190-C-88) added 12 pts for the hosts. In defeat, Nadia Mossong (182-F-86) was better than the others with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Jill Bausch (176-G-87) delivered 17 pts. Bosnia took control on Luxembourg from the very beginning as they made 25-17 lead in Q1. The hosts continued with 22-11 and 19-15 after that resolving question about the winner. Last ten minutes were just the formality and Bosnia slowed down. Luxembourg won that period 22-24, but still faced with big 88-67 defeat. Bosnia had poor 1 of 15 from behind the arc in this game, but they were pretty good for FG2 (33/55). They forced Luxembourg players to commit 28 turnovers.

Bosnia: Lejla Bejtic 18, Milica Deura 14, Dragana Svitlica 12
Luxembourg: Nadia Mossong 24+9 boards, Jill Bausch 17

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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


USK Prague bring Anna Montanana - by Eurobasket News
USK Prague bring Anna Montanana (186-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: George Washington) for the next season. The Spanish National player spent last season for Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca (LFB) and in Euroleague after 15 games averaged 7.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 24.1%, FT: 62.5%. In Spanish League after 29 games her stats read 7.6ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 81.8%.
Recently the National team player helped Spain to win over Turkey in Victory Cup. The winners upset the home side 58:55 in a real surviving thriller.
Anna Cruz paced all the winners with 18 points and Alba Torrens netted 15. Anna Montanana ended up with 12 points, while Laia Palau and Elisa Aguilar scored 5 each.
Earlier Anna Montanana was Spanish LFB Champion -09, 10, 11. Before celebrating the title with Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca, she had two titles with Ros Casares Valencia. In 2009-2010 for Ros Casares Valencia (LFB) in Euroleague she had 9.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 78.9%. In Spanish League after 29 games she showed 8.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 82.8%.



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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Standings Div.B (Women) - by Eurobasket News
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Slovenia5-1
2. Sweden5-1
3. Norway1-5
4. Portugal1-5
Group B
1. Estonia7-1
2. Switzerlan.6-2
3. Bosnia5-3
4. Luxembourg.2-6
5. Albania0-8


Division B: Last day (9) of the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Portugal - Sweden 55-65
Sweden outplayed Portugal on the road 55-65 winning the first place in EuroBasket 2011 Division B, Group A. Sweden registered almost perfect 5-1 record, including the crucial win against Slovenia, and it was enough for the first place. On the other side, Portugal ended as No.3 with 1-5 record. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) top-scored for the hosts with 15 points, while Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) had double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) helped the winners with 13 points and 6 boards. In Portugal, Tamara Milovac (186-C-86) shined with 14 points and 10 rebs. Joana Lopes (185-F-86) followed her with 12 points and 6 rebs. Sweden had nice second and last quarter, what was enough for them to win this game. Quarters: 19-18, 7-14, 15-13, 14-20. Sweden made 16 of 21 attempts from the free throw line in this game.

Slovenia - Norway 75-49
Slovenia destroyed Norway 75-49 for 5-1 record in Group A of the EuroBasket 2011, Division B. However, it was not enough for the first place in this pool, which at the end belongs to Sweden. Norway finished as the last ranked team in this group with 1-5 record. Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) stepped up for the hosts with 19 points. Tina Trebec (189-F/C-90) had 12 points and Natasa Radulovic (180-G-82) added 11 pts, plus 6 boards. In Norway, Tori Halvorsen (187-F/C-88) and Tina Moen (183-G-86, college: IPFW) delivered 12 and 10 points respectively. They had 6 rebounds each in this meeting. Except of the first quarter, which was pretty leveled (14-12), Slovenia was much better team. They made 23-15 in the second period and continued with 14-9 after the breather. In the last quarter Slovenia increased its lead for 11 more points until the final 75-49 victory. It is strange, but Norway finished this game with two rebounds more than Slovenia (26-24). However, the hosts had much better shot percentage.

Group B
Bosnia - Luxembourg 88-67
Bosnia was too strong for Luxembourg 88-67 in the last day of the EuroBasket 2011 Division B - Group B. Bosnia ended as third ranked team in this pool with 5-3 record. On the other side, Luxembourg is No.4 with two wins and six defeats. Lejla Bejtic (174-F-85) came up with 18 points for the winners, while Milica Deura (178-G-90) scored four less than her. Dragana Svitlica (190-C-88) added 12 pts for the hosts. In defeat, Nadia Mossong (182-F-86) was better than the others with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Jill Bausch (176-G-87) delivered 17 pts. Bosnia took control on Luxembourg from the very beginning as they made 25-17 lead in Q1. The hosts continued with 22-11 and 19-15 after that resolving question about the winner. Last ten minutes were just the formality and Bosnia slowed down. Luxembourg won that period 22-24, but still faced with big 88-67 defeat. Bosnia had poor 1 of 15 from behind the arc in this game, but they were pretty good for FG2 (33/55). They forced Luxembourg players to commit 28 turnovers.

Switzerland - Albania 97-48
Switzerland was too strong for Albania handing them huge 97-48 loss. The hosts finished EuroBasket 2011 Division B as the second ranked team of Group B with 6-2 record. Albania on the other side was not able to deliver a single win (0-8). Alexia Rol (170-G-82) scored 17 points for the hosts with no miss from the field. Marielle Giroud (180-F-87) had double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. She reached valuation 31 and was the MVP of this meeting. Karen Twehues (182-G-83, college: Cincinnati) was third scorer in victory with 15 pts. Albania had only one player with double digits in scoring and it was Fabiola Permeti (176-G-87) with exactly 10 pts. Karolina Kostallari (187-F/C-79) (6 rebs) and Enisa Semanjaku (88) netted 9 points each. Switzerland was dominating from the very beginning and they kept increasing the lead after each frame. Quarters: 25-6, 21-9, 34-17, 17-16. It is important to mention that Albania committed 39 turnovers in this meeting.

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  FIBA AMERICAS U16 - Women  


Standing
Standings
Group A
1. Canada0-0
2. Guatemala0-0
3. Mexico0-0
4. P.Rico0-0
Group B
1. Argentina0-0
2. Brazil0-0
3. USA0-0
4. Venezuela0-0


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  FRANCE - Women  


French U16 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Maimouna Ba 190-F-96
Carla Blatrie 170-G-96 Gerland-Mouche France
Justine Bodiguel 186-F-95 Nantes France
Katia Clanet 187-F-96 Challes France
Fleur Devillers 177-G-95 CFBB France
Aline Dumont 169-G-95
Ophelie Irabe 184-F-95 Mondeville France
Marine Johannes 170-G-95 Mondeville France
Assitan Kone 191-F-95 CFBB France
Clemence Lefebvre 185-F-95 Mondeville France
Marie Mane 183-F-95 Bourges France
Marie-Michelle Milapie 191-F-96 Toulouse France
Lysa Millavet 186-F-95 Mondeville France
Assetou Traore 178-G-95 Nantes France
Joelly Belleka 168-G-95 Arras France
Berengere Dinga Mbomi 174-G-95 CFBB France
Clarince Djaldi Tabdi 183-F-95 CFBB France
Sophia Elenga 185-F-95 Bourges France
Aby Gaye 195-C-95 CFBB France
Laetitia Guapo 182-F-95 CFBB France
Megane Hero 170-G-95 Lattes Montp. France
Alexia Lacaule 165-G-95 Landes France
Auriane Lux 180-G-95 Bourges France
Elise Marie 164-G-95 Tarbes France
Clementine Morateur 175-G-95 CFBB France
Tania Pierre-Emile 191-C-95 CFBB France
Louise Sauer 188-F-95 Bourges France
Eugenie Simonet-Keller 197-C-95 Challes France
Clemence Urien 165-G-95 Bourges France

Julien Egloff Head Coach
Jean-Pascal Boisse Assistant
David Gallois Assistant


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  GERMANY - Women  


Sweden U20 pip Germany U20 in the friendly clashes - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20 won both games over Germany U20 in the preparation clashes before European U20 Championship. In Game 1 the Scandinavian team celebrated 73:64 win. Sweden started with 17-13 and added 19-16 in the second frame. Moreover the winners got 16-14 in the third quarter and both teams nailed 21 points each in the last stanza. Farhiya Abdi (187-F-92) paced all the winners with 20 points, while Jennifer Kucukkaya netted 11. Sally Kabengano and Sandra Ngoie Hasahya finished the game with 9 points each. Sonja Greinacher (188-F-92) replied with 19 points in defeat, whilst Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) posted 13.
In game 2 Sweden grabbed 65:63 win. The Scandinavian team won the first period 21-16 and kept 5-point advantage at the halftime. They added 14-8 in the third period and remained in front after 23-14 German surge. Farhiya Abdi top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) netted 13. Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) as well as Salome Kabengano posted 7, whilst Sandra Ngoie notched 6. Sonja Greinacher answered with 18 points in the losing effort.


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  ICELAND - Women  


Stjarnan land Bryndis Hreinsdottir - by Eurobasket News
Bryndis Hreinsdottir (159-G) will change team in the next season. The guard has agreed on terms of contract with Stjarnan. Last season Bryndis Hreinsdottir played for Haukar. She tallied 2.7 points and 1.2 rebounds per game in Express League. Bryndis Hreinsdottir was Icelandic League champion with Haukar back in 2009.


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  ITALY - Women  


Beretta Famila-Schio have signed Cheryl Ford - by Eurobasket News
Beretta Famila-Schio have signed Cheryl Ford (191-F/C-81, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Louisiana Tech) for 2011/2012 season. The American Power Forward comes from Frisco Sika Brno.
In 2008 Cheryl Ford played for Detroit Shock (WNBA, starting five) and in Regular Season averaged 10.1ppg, 8.7rpg, FGP: 48.1%, FT: 56%. In 2009 she improved to 8.5ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.0%, FT: 58.6%. In January 2010 she signed at CCC Polkowice (Poland-PLKK) and showed 3.0ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.0spg. Last season she moved to Frisco Sika Brno (Czech Rep.-ZBL, starting five): and in Czech Rep. League had 14.3ppg, Reb-1 (13.4rpg), 1.3spg, FGP: 54.5%, FT: 63.1%. In Euroleague after 10 games her stats read 14.8ppg, Reb-1 (14.2rpg), 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.1%, FT: 48.4%.
Only last season Cheryl Ford was in Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague 2nd Team -11, became Czech Rep. D1 Regular Season Champion -11, Czech Rep. D1 Finalist -11, Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. D1 Player of the Year -11, Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. D1 Center of the Year -11 and Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. D1 1st Team -11.
Cheryl Ford recorded 24 points and 16 rebounds last season at the Qualifying Round Round 4 of EuroLeague as Frisco Sika lost to Bourges 62-67. Cheryl Ford responded with 24 points and 16 rebounds for Frisco Sika. Frida Eldebrink produced 13 points in defeat.



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  IVORY COAST - Women  


Ivory Coast National Team 2011 - by Karol
Aichata Diomande 169-G-84 ABC Ivory Coast
Salimata Berte 182-F-89 ABC Ivory Coast
Blandine N'Goran 190-C-87 ABC Ivory Coast
Florence Ouattara 175-G-94 ABC Ivory Coast
Maimounatou Kolga 164-G-92 Club Sportif D'Abidjan Ivory Coast
Mariama Kouyate 180-G/F-88 CSA Ivory Coast
Kani Kouyate 178-F-90 CSA Ivory Coast
Karidja Traore CSA Ivory Coast
Edwige Djedjemel 186-F/C-88 CSA Ivory Coast
Minata Fofana 190-C-86 CSA Ivory Coast
Yvonne Bognigni 178-G-92 CSA Ivory Coast
Amandine Bognigni 175-G/F-84 CSA Ivory Coast
Saran Camara 163-G-91 CSA Ivory Coast
Anicette Boni 182-C-94 DCA Ivory Coast



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  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


Bosnia too strong for Luxembourg in Division B - by Eurobasket News
BOSNIA - LUXEMBOURG 88-67

Bosnia was too strong for Luxembourg 88-67 in the last day of the EuroBasket 2011 Division B - Group B. Bosnia ended as third ranked team in this pool with 5-3 record. On the other side, Luxembourg is No.4 with two wins and six defeats. Lejla Bejtic (174-F-85) came up with 18 points for the winners, while Milica Deura (178-G-90) scored four less than her. Dragana Svitlica (190-C-88) added 12 pts for the hosts. In defeat, Nadia Mossong (182-F-86) was better than the others with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Jill Bausch (176-G-87) delivered 17 pts. Bosnia took control on Luxembourg from the very beginning as they made 25-17 lead in Q1. The hosts continued with 22-11 and 19-15 after that resolving question about the winner. Last ten minutes were just the formality and Bosnia slowed down. Luxembourg won that period 22-24, but still faced with big 88-67 defeat. Bosnia had poor 1 of 15 from behind the arc in this game, but they were pretty good for FG2 (33/55). They forced Luxembourg players to commit 28 turnovers.

Bosnia: Lejla Bejtic 18, Milica Deura 14, Dragana Svitlica 12
Luxembourg: Nadia Mossong 24+9 boards, Jill Bausch 17

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  NEW ZEALAND - Women  


Tall Ferns selections - by Mike Lacey
North Harbour basketballers came from far and wide to attend the New Zealand Tall Ferns trials held at the Breakers base in Mairangi Bay over the weekend. Regular internationals Lisa Wallbutton and Micaela Cocks (173-G-86, college: Oregon) took time out from professional contracts in Australia. Point guard Amanda Harris had recently returned from College commitments in America and Rebecca Dew (Hawaii) and Kate Alemann (Missouri) will return to their respective Colleges next month. Locally based Harbour Breeze players Karlene Kingi and Natasha Hall were also hoping to be selected. In addition 15 year old Rangitoto College student Penina Davidson was invited to the trial to gain experience training with full international players. The management team also includes two Harbour locals, Assistant Coach Aik Ho and Team Manager Helen Lacey.
At the conclusion of the three day trial 12 athletes were selected for a 10 day visit to China where the Tall Ferns will play internationals against Australia, Brazil and hosts China. All three opponents hold top 10 world rankings and will provide excellent preparation for the Tall Ferns as they prepare for their Olympic qualifying series against Australia in September
The selected squad is;
Erin Rooney
Jordan Hunter
Kate McMeeken-Ruscoe
Micaela Cocks (173-G-86, college: Oregon)
Antonia Edmondson
Jillian Harmon
Natalie Purcell
Lisa Wallbutton
Patrice McKenzie
Rebecca Dew
Jelena Vucinic
Aroha Jenninings



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  NIGERIA - Women  


Nigerian National Team 2011 - by Karol
Grace Okonkwo C First Bank Nigeria
Oluchi Nzekwe 155-G-86 First Bank Nigeria
Patience White G First Bank Nigeria
Vera Ellong G First Bank Nigeria
Magdalene G First Bank Nigeria
Nike Dawodu F First Bank Nigeria
Sandra German 189-G/F-84 First Bank Nigeria
Akpan ImaObong G First Bank Nigeria
Atosu Upe First Deepwater Nigeria
Kelechi Obasi First Deepwater Nigeria
Nkeci Akashili G First Deepwater Nigeria
Blessing Emmanuel G First Deepwater Nigeria
Rebecca Iritei G Sunshine A. Nigeria
Korede Sosanya F Sunshine A. Nigeria



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  NORWAY - Women  


Slovenia blasts Norway 75-49 - by Eurobasket News
SLOVENIA - NORWAY 75-49

Slovenia destroyed Norway 75-49 for 5-1 record in Group A of the EuroBasket 2011, Division B. However, it was not enough for the first place in this pool, which at the end belongs to Sweden. Norway finished as the last ranked team in this group with 1-5 record. Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) stepped up for the hosts with 19 points. Tina Trebec (189-F/C-90) had 12 points and Natasa Radulovic (180-G-82) added 11 pts, plus 6 boards. In Norway, Tori Halvorsen (187-F/C-88) and Tina Moen (183-G-86, college: IPFW) delivered 12 and 10 points respectively. They had 6 rebounds each in this meeting. Except of the first quarter, which was pretty leveled (14-12), Slovenia was much better team. They made 23-15 in the second period and continued with 14-9 after the breather. In the last quarter Slovenia increased its lead for 11 more points until the final 75-49 victory. It is strange, but Norway finished this game with two rebounds more than Slovenia (26-24). However, the hosts had much better shot percentage.

Slovenia: Eva Komplet 19, Tina Trebec 12, Natasa Radulovic 11+6 boards
Norway: Tori Halvorsen 12+6 boards, Tina Moen 10+6 boards

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  POLAND - Women  


Polish U20 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Kinga Bandyk 186-F/C-92 Lomianki Poland
Martyna Cebulska 168-G-91 Ostrovia Poland
Agata Dobrowolska 188-F/C-92 CCC Polkowice Poland
Aleksandra Dziwinska 172-G-91 CCC Polkowice Poland
Magdalena Idziorek 175-G-92 MUKS Poznan Poland
Monika Jasnowska 182-G/F-92 Lomianki Poland
Paulina Kuras 170-G-92 Lomianki Poland
Joanna Markiewicz 183-F-91 KKS Olsztyn Poland
Malgorzata Misiuk 184-F-91 Lotos Gdynia Poland
Dorota Mistygacz 183-F/C-92 MUKS Poznan Poland
Marta Mistygacz 180-F-91 MUKS Poznan Poland
Aldona Morawiec 183-F-92 Lomianki Poland
Martyna Stelmach 187-F/C-92 Lomianki Poland
Agata Szczepanik 194-F/C-92 Lomianki Poland
Agnieszka Sniezek 176-G-91 Wisla Can-Pak Poland
Magdalena Zietara 170-G/F-92 Lotos Gdynia Poland

Iwona Jablonska Head Coach
Dariusz Raczynski Assistant


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  PORTUGAL - Women  


Sweden wins first place in Division B, Group A - by Eurobasket News
PORTUGAL - SWEDEN 55-65

Sweden outplayed Portugal on the road 55-65 winning the first place in EuroBasket 2011 Division B, Group A. Sweden registered almost perfect 5-1 record, including the crucial win against Slovenia, and it was enough for the first place. On the other side, Portugal ended as No.3 with 1-5 record. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) top-scored for the hosts with 15 points, while Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) had double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) helped the winners with 13 points and 6 boards. In Portugal, Tamara Milovac (186-C-86) shined with 14 points and 10 rebs. Joana Lopes (185-F-86) followed her with 12 points and 6 rebs. Sweden had nice second and last quarter, what was enough for them to win this game. Quarters: 19-18, 7-14, 15-13, 14-20. Sweden made 16 of 21 attempts from the free throw line in this game.

Portugal: Tamara Milovac 14+10 boards, Joana Lopes 12+6 boards
Sweden: Frida Eldebrink 15, Louice Halvarsson 14+11 boards, Elin Eldebrink 13+6 boards

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


Beata Simova joins Poprad - by Eurobasket News
Poprad ensured the strengthening for the next season. They have agreed on terms of contract with Beata Simova (184-F-87). The 23-year-old forward played for Banska Bystrica in the previous season. She tallied 16.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.5 steals and 1.1 assists per game in Extraliga. Beata Simova earned Eurobasket.com All-Slovakian Extraliga Honourable Mention in 2011. Beata Simova played for Banska Bystrica since 2004 with a one-year stint with MBK Ruzomberok in 2008/09 season. Beata Simova was on U18 Slovakia National Team roster in 2005. The forward is expected to join Poprad late in the summer. She will travel to China before. Beata Simova will play for Slovakia University National Team at 2011 Universiade there.


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  SLOVENIA - Women  


Slovenia blasts Norway 75-49 - by Eurobasket News
SLOVENIA - NORWAY 75-49

Slovenia destroyed Norway 75-49 for 5-1 record in Group A of the EuroBasket 2011, Division B. However, it was not enough for the first place in this pool, which at the end belongs to Sweden. Norway finished as the last ranked team in this group with 1-5 record. Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) stepped up for the hosts with 19 points. Tina Trebec (189-F/C-90) had 12 points and Natasa Radulovic (180-G-82) added 11 pts, plus 6 boards. In Norway, Tori Halvorsen (187-F/C-88) and Tina Moen (183-G-86, college: IPFW) delivered 12 and 10 points respectively. They had 6 rebounds each in this meeting. Except of the first quarter, which was pretty leveled (14-12), Slovenia was much better team. They made 23-15 in the second period and continued with 14-9 after the breather. In the last quarter Slovenia increased its lead for 11 more points until the final 75-49 victory. It is strange, but Norway finished this game with two rebounds more than Slovenia (26-24). However, the hosts had much better shot percentage.

Slovenia: Eva Komplet 19, Tina Trebec 12, Natasa Radulovic 11+6 boards
Norway: Tori Halvorsen 12+6 boards, Tina Moen 10+6 boards

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  SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Venezuela defeats Argentina 38-37 - by Wolfgang Lucena
An outstanding Venezuela U16 National Team defeated Argentina 38-37 in a terrific game during the first game of the Pre world cup FIBA U16 2011 held in Mexico. Argentina was leading this first game of the 2011 FIBA U16 Pre World Cup game but it seems like Venezuela had a second inspiration; with 7 minutes and 55 seconds to play Venezuela start its come back to finally win the game 38-37. Marangel Mendoza from Lara State made a three points shot to This way helps the Venezuelan Team win its first game of the 2011 FIBA U16 Pre World Cup.


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  SPAIN - Women  


USK Prague bring Anna Montanana - by Eurobasket News
USK Prague bring Anna Montanana (186-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: George Washington) for the next season. The Spanish National player spent last season for Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca (LFB) and in Euroleague after 15 games averaged 7.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 24.1%, FT: 62.5%. In Spanish League after 29 games her stats read 7.6ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 81.8%.
Recently the National team player helped Spain to win over Turkey in Victory Cup. The winners upset the home side 58:55 in a real surviving thriller.
Anna Cruz paced all the winners with 18 points and Alba Torrens netted 15. Anna Montanana ended up with 12 points, while Laia Palau and Elisa Aguilar scored 5 each.
Earlier Anna Montanana was Spanish LFB Champion -09, 10, 11. Before celebrating the title with Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca, she had two titles with Ros Casares Valencia. In 2009-2010 for Ros Casares Valencia (LFB) in Euroleague she had 9.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 78.9%. In Spanish League after 29 games she showed 8.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 82.8%.



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  SWEDEN - Women  


Sweden wins first place in Division B, Group A - by Eurobasket News
PORTUGAL - SWEDEN 55-65

Sweden outplayed Portugal on the road 55-65 winning the first place in EuroBasket 2011 Division B, Group A. Sweden registered almost perfect 5-1 record, including the crucial win against Slovenia, and it was enough for the first place. On the other side, Portugal ended as No.3 with 1-5 record. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) top-scored for the hosts with 15 points, while Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) had double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) helped the winners with 13 points and 6 boards. In Portugal, Tamara Milovac (186-C-86) shined with 14 points and 10 rebs. Joana Lopes (185-F-86) followed her with 12 points and 6 rebs. Sweden had nice second and last quarter, what was enough for them to win this game. Quarters: 19-18, 7-14, 15-13, 14-20. Sweden made 16 of 21 attempts from the free throw line in this game.

Portugal: Tamara Milovac 14+10 boards, Joana Lopes 12+6 boards
Sweden: Frida Eldebrink 15, Louice Halvarsson 14+11 boards, Elin Eldebrink 13+6 boards

Sweden U20 pip Germany U20 in the friendly clashes - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20 won both games over Germany U20 in the preparation clashes before European U20 Championship. In Game 1 the Scandinavian team celebrated 73:64 win. Sweden started with 17-13 and added 19-16 in the second frame. Moreover the winners got 16-14 in the third quarter and both teams nailed 21 points each in the last stanza. Farhiya Abdi (187-F-92) paced all the winners with 20 points, while Jennifer Kucukkaya netted 11. Sally Kabengano and Sandra Ngoie Hasahya finished the game with 9 points each. Sonja Greinacher (188-F-92) replied with 19 points in defeat, whilst Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) posted 13.
In game 2 Sweden grabbed 65:63 win. The Scandinavian team won the first period 21-16 and kept 5-point advantage at the halftime. They added 14-8 in the third period and remained in front after 23-14 German surge. Farhiya Abdi top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) netted 13. Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) as well as Salome Kabengano posted 7, whilst Sandra Ngoie notched 6. Sonja Greinacher answered with 18 points in the losing effort.


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  SWITZERLAND - Women  


Switzerland cruises past Albania in Division B - by Eurobasket News
SWITZERLAND - ALBANIA 97-48

Switzerland was too strong for Albania handing them huge 97-48 loss. The hosts finished EuroBasket 2011 Division B as the second ranked team of Group B with 6-2 record. Albania on the other side was not able to deliver a single win (0-8). Alexia Rol (170-G-82) scored 17 points for the hosts with no miss from the field. Marielle Giroud (180-F-87) had double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. She reached valuation 31 and was the MVP of this meeting. Karen Twehues (182-G-83, college: Cincinnati) was third scorer in victory with 15 pts. Albania had only one player with double digits in scoring and it was Fabiola Permeti (176-G-87) with exactly 10 pts. Karolina Kostallari (187-F/C-79) (6 rebs) and Enisa Semanjaku (88) netted 9 points each. Switzerland was dominating from the very beginning and they kept increasing the lead after each frame. Quarters: 25-6, 21-9, 34-17, 17-16. It is important to mention that Albania committed 39 turnovers in this meeting.

Switzerland: Alexia Rol 17, Marielle Giroud 16+10 boards, Karen Twehues 15
Albania: Fabiola Permeti 10, Karolina Kostallari 9+6 boards, Enisa Semanjaku 9

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  UKRAINE - Women  


U16 National Team comes back from Italy - by Eurobasket News
Ukrainian U16 National Team just returned from Italy. They participated at the international friendly tournament in Milan. Eventually Ukraine clinched the title celebrating victory in all four games played.
Ukraine U16 selection opened the tourney against Azzurra Verbania team from Italy. The visitors claimed a comfortable 113:23 victory. Anastasia Bondarenko produced 24 points to lead the winners. Svitlana Kyrychok (181-F-95) accounted for 21 points in the victory.
Next Ukraine took on Killester Dublin. Once again the Ukrainian team looked much better and posted an 82:30 win at the end. Victoria Kunda stepped up with 15 points for Ukraine. Alina Popova had 11 points in the victory.
Leonid Tsay team faced Albino in the semis. Once again it was a convincing victory for Ukraine 100:26. Anastasia Bondarenko stepped up with 16 points, while Svitlana Kyrychok provided 15 points in the winning effort.
Ukraine clashed with Ohio Lady Hoopsters in the Final. Nataliya Skorbatyuk (183-F-95) delivered 15 points to pace Ukraine to a 66:57 win. Victoria Khomyak accounted for 13 points.



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  VENEZUELA - Women  


Venezuela Defeates Argentina 38-37 - by Wolfgang Lucena
An outstanding Venezuela U16 National Team defeated Argentina 38-37 in a terrific game during the first game of the Pre world cup FIBA U16 2011 held in Mexico. Argentina was leading this first game of the 2011 FIBA U16 Pre World Cup game but it seems like Venezuela had a second inspiration; with 7 minutes and 55 seconds to play Venezuela start its come back to finally win the game 38-37. Marangel Mendoza from Lara State made a three points shot to This way helps the Venezuelan Team win its first game of the 2011 FIBA U16 Pre World Cup.