EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/24/2011

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Radnicki lands Stefan Bircevic - by Zoran Popovic
Radnicki Kragujevac lands young Stefan Bircevic (209-F/C-89). Management of Radnicki sing with Bircevic three years contract deal. Stefan Bircevic had great season with Metalac Valjevo and on 39 games average scored 12.1 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game. Bircevic started professional career in Metalac Valjevo and played for them last five seasons. Stefan Bircevic was member of Serbian U20 National team.

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  ARGENTINA   


Gregory Lewis signs contract with La Union - by Eurobasket News
La Union Formosa strengthened their frontcourt. They have agreed on terms of contract with Gregory Lewis (198-F-78, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Winthrop). The forward just parted ways with Atenas Cordoba. Gregory Lewis arrived to Atenas during the last season. The forward posted 13.7 points, 6.9 boards and 2.2 steals per appearance. Gregory Lewis started the previous season in Sionista de Parana. His stats read 6.6 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game there. Gregory Lewis participated at LigaA 2011 All-Star Game. Gregory Lewis used to be New Zealand NBL Player of the Year back in 2005. He was also trumped All-Mexican LNBP Forward of the Year in 2009.



U16 USA secures the first place in Group B - by Eurobasket News
USA - ARGENTINA 102-81

USA was too strong for Argentina 102-81 in Day Two of the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. It means that USA jumped to 2-0 in Group B and already booked a spot for the Semifinals. They also secured first place in this pool. Argentina dropped to 1-1 and still has a nice chance to reach the Semis. Jabari Parker (95) came up with 21 points and 7 rebounds in victory. Kendrick Nunn (96) followed him with 14 points and 7 boards, while Larry Austin Jr. (96) added 11 pts. In Argentina, Alvaro Merlo (5'7''-G-95) delivered 15 points. Rodrigo Haag (95) had 13 pts and 6 rebs, while Lucio Reinaudi (95) added 12 pts. Second quarter was the crucial one in this game (30-11). Argentina never recovered from it and USA had no troubles to keep the comfortable lead. Quarters: (22-23, 30-11, 22-17, 28-30.
In the last day of the Preliminary Round, USA will meet Costa Rica. Argentina will take on Brazil.

USA: Jabari Parker 21+7 boards, Kendrick Nunn 14+7 boards, Larry Austin Jr. 11
Argentina: Alvaro Merlo 15, Rodrigo Haag 13+6 boards, Lucio Reinaudi 12

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  AUSTRALIA   


Kyrie Irving goes No. 1 in NBA Draft - by Eurobasket
Kyrie Irving (6'2''-G-92) traveled just a few miles down the road to become the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft.
The players that followed him came from across the globe.
The Cleveland Cavaliers selected Irving with the No. 1 pick in a draft filled with internationals, confident his foot is healthy enough to lead the rebuilding effort that follows LeBron James' (notes) departure.
Loudly cheered by family and friends not far from where he starred at St. Patrick's High School in Elizabeth, Irving showed no signs of the toe injury on his right foot that limited him to 11 games last season as he walked up the stairs to shake hands with Commissioner David Stern.
'I didn't have any doubts about going to No. 1. I was looking to the organization to pick who they felt was the right choice,' Irving said. 'But now to this moment, from being a fan of the NBA draft and now being drafted, it's a special feeling in my heart and knowing that my friends and family were together, it's a memory I'm going to remember for the rest of my life.'
Three of the first six players taken were from Europe, capitalizing on the absence of some American college players who might have gone in their spots and made this a stronger draft. It was the first time four international players who didn't play at a U.S. college were selected in the lottery.
Even Irving has international ties. He was born in Australia while his father, Drederick, played professionally there and said he might be interested in playing for the Australian national team.

Courtesy of Yahoo

NBA Draft 2011:

1st ROUND
1. Cleveland C. Kyrie Irving (6'2''-G-92) Duke
2. Monnesota T. Derrick Williams (6'8''-F-91) Arizona
3. Utah Jazz Enes Kanter (6'9''-C-92) Kentucky
4. Cleveland C. Tristan Thompson (6'8''-F-91) Texas
5. Toronto R. Jonas Valanciunas (6'11''-C-92) Lietuvos rytas (LTU)
6. Washington W. Jan Vesely (6'11''-F-90) Partizan (SRB)
7. Sacramento K. Bismack Biyombo (6'10''-C-92) DR Congolese Fuenlabrada (ESP)
8. Detroit P. Brandon Knight (6'3''-G-91) Kentucky
9. Charlotte B. Kemba Walker (6'1''-PG-90) Connecticut
10. Milwaukee B. Jimmer Fredette (6'2''-G-89) BYU
11. Golden St. W. Klay Thompson (6'6''-G-90) Washington St.
12. Utah J. Alec Burks (6'6''-G-91) Colorado
13. Phoenix S. Markieff Morris (6'9''-F-89) Kansas
14. Houston R. Marcus Morris (6'8''-F-89) Kansas
15. Indiana P. Kawhi Leonard (6'7''-F-91) San Diego St.
16. Philadelphia 76 Nikola Vucevic (6'10''-F-90) S.California
17. New York K. Iman Shumpert (6'5''-G-90) Georgia Tech
18. Washington W. Chris Singleton (6'9''-F-89) Florida St.
19. Charlotte B. Tobias Harris (6'8''-F-92) Tennessee
20. Minnesota T. Donatas Motiejunas (7'0''-C-90) Benetton (ITA)
21. Portland TB Nolan Smith (6'2''-G-88) Duke
22. Denver N. Kenneth Faried (6'8''-F/C-89) Morehead St.
23. Houston R. Nikola Mirotic (6'10''-F/C-91) Real Madrid (ESP)
24. Oklahoma City T. Reggie Jackson (6'3''-G-91) Boston Coll.
25. Boston C. Marshon Brooks (6'5''-G/F-89) Providence
26. Dallas M. Jordan Hamilton (6'7''-G/F-90) Texas
27. New Jersey N. JaJuan Johnson (6'10''-F/C-89) Purdue
28. Chicago B. Norris Cole (6'2''-G-88) Cleveland St.
29. San Antonio S. Cory Joseph (6'3''-G-91) Texas
30. Chicago B. Jimmy Butler (6'7''-G/F-89) Marquette

2nd ROUND
31. Miami H. Bojan Bogdanovic (6'8''-G/F-89) Bosnia and Herzegovina Croatian Cibona (CRO)
32. Cleveland C. Justin Harper (6'10''-F-89) Richmond
33. Detroit P. Kyle Singler (6'8''-F-88) Duke
34. Washington W. Shelvin Mack (6'3''-G-90) Butler
35. Sacramento K. Tyler Honeycutt (6'8''-F-90) UCLA
36. New Jersey N. Jordan Williams (6'10''-F-90) Maryland
37. LA Clippers Trey Thompkins (6'9''-F-90) Georgia
38. Houston R. Chandler Parsons (6'9''-F-88) Florida
39. Charlotte B. Jeremy Tyler (6'10''-F-91) Tokyo Apache (JPN)
40. Milwaukee B. Jon Leuer (6'10''-F-89) Wisconsin
41. LA Lakers Darius Morris (6'4''-G-91) Michigan
42. Indiana P. Davis Bertans (6'7''-F-92) Union Olimpija (SLO)
43. Chicago B. Malcolm Lee (6'4''-G-90) UCLA
44. Golden St. W. Charles Jenkins (6'3''-G-89) Hofstra
45. New Orleans H. Josh Harrellson (6'10''-F-89) Kentucky
46. LA Lakers Andrew Goudelock (6'2''-G-88) Charleston
47. LA Clippers Travis Leslie (6'4''-G-90) Georgia
48. Atlanta H. Keith Benson (6'11''-C-88) Oakland
49. Memphis G. Josh Selby (6'2''-G-91) Kansas
50. Philadelphia 76 Lavoy Allen (6'9''-F-89) Temple
51. Portland TB Jon Diebler (6'6''-G-88) Ohio St.
52. Detroit P. Vernon Macklin (6'10''-F/C-86) Florida
53. Orlando M. Deandre Liggins (6'6''-G-88) Kentucky
54. Cleveland C. Milan Macvan (6'9''-C-89) Maccabi T-A (ISR)
55. Boston C. E'Twaun Moore (6'4''-G-89) Purdue
56. LA Lakers Chukwudiebere Maduabum (6'9''-F-91) Bakersfield J. (D-Leag)
57. Dallas M. Targuy Ngombo (6'6''-F-89) Congolese Qatari Al Rayyan (QAT)
58. LA Lakers Ater Majok (6'10''-F-87) Gold Coast Blaze (AUS)
59. San Antonio S. Adam Hanga (6'7''-G-89) Albacomp (HUN)
60. Sacramento K. Isaiah Thomas (5'8''-PG-89) Washington


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  AUSTRIA   


Eurobasket.com All-Austrian League Awards 2010-11 - by Stefan Heinrich
#s#
Fabricio Vay
Vay
Ian Boylan
Boylan
Bernd Volcic
Volcic
Joe Dean Shaw
Shaw
Anthony Shavies
Shavies
#e#5
Player of the Year: Fabricio Vay (206-F-86) of Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions
Guard of the Year: Ian Boylan (197-G/F-83) of Allianz Swans Gmunden
Forward of the Year: Fabricio Vay
Center of the Year: Bernd Volcic (205-C-76) of Oberwart Gunners
Newcomer of the Year: Joe Dean Shaw (199-F-87) of Oberwart Gunners
Most Improved Player of the Year: Enis Murati (194-F-88) of Allianz Swans Gmunden
Bosman Player of the Year: Fabricio Vay
Import Player of the Year: Ian Boylan
Domestic Player of the Year: Bernd Volcic
Defensive Player of the Year: David Gonzalvez (193-G-87) of Oberwart Gunners
Coach of the Year: Neno Asceric of Oberwart Gunners

1st Team
Anthony Shavies (191-G-83) of BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers
Ian Boylan
Joe Dean Shaw
Fabricio Vay
Bernd Volcic

2nd Team
Benedikt Danek (174-G-86) of Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions
Kevin Houston (194-F/G-76) of Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions
Shawn Ray (194-F-80) of BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers
Marcus Heard (201-F-84) of UBC okoStadt Gussing Knights
Dan Oppland (203-F-84) of Allianz Swans Gmunden

Honorable Mention
Kelvin Parker (183-G-82) of Oberwart Gunners
Christoph Nagler (194-G-84) of Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg
Rasheed Brokenborough (191-G-76) of WBC Raiffeisen Wels
Stjepan Stazic (199-G-78) of BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers
Louis Graham (205-F/C-84) of UBSC Raiffeisen Graz
Deteri Mayes (189-G-74) of Allianz Swans Gmunden
Russell Hicks (213-C-85) of BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers
Jason Johnson (202-F/C-77) of Oberwart Gunners

All-Domestic Players Team
Benedikt Danek
Christoph Nagler
Richard Poiger (201-F-87) of UBC St. Polten
Matthias Mayer (204-C/F-81) of Allianz Swans Gmunden
Bernd Volcic

All-Imports Team
Anthony Shavies
Ian Boylan
Joe Dean Shaw
Marcus Heard
Dan Oppland

All-Defensive Team
Moritz Lanegger (188-G-90) of ECE Bulls Kapfenberg
David Gonzalvez
Ian Boylan
Matthias Mayer
Bernd Volcic

All-Bosman Team
Dragan Miletic (195-G-82) of UBSC Raiffeisen Graz
Samo Grum (193-G/F-79) of UBSC Raiffeisen Graz
Djordje Drenovac (201-F-92) of Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions
Fabricio Vay
Ramiz Suljanovic (206-F/C-79) of Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg

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  BOSNIA   


Elmedin Kikanovic signs in Russia - by Eurobasket News
Elmedin Kikanovic (210-C-88, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Russia. The Bosnian big guy is back after doping suspension and he signed a deal with Enisey Krasnoyarsk. Kikanovic spent 2009/10 season with Crvena Zvezda. He appeared 12 times in EuroCup registering 8.5 ppg and 2.4 rpg. In Adriatic league, he added 9.6 ppg and 2.7 rpg for 25 games. Kikanovic also played 16 games in Serbian league that season collecting 8.8 ppg and 1.6 rpg. He was a member of Crvena Zvezda from 2007 to 2010. He joined them from Sloboda Dita Tuzla.
Elmedin Kikanovic is active member of the Bosnian National Team. He also played for them from 2006 to 2009. In 2007, Kikanovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League Newcomer of the Year. A year later he got Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Newcomer of the Year.

Nihad Djedovic gets 'Honorable mention' in Italy - by Eurobasket News
Eurobasket.com announced its awards for the Italian SerieA. The Bosnian prospect Nihad Djedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) was awarded with 'Honorable mention'. He played 24 games for Lottomatica Roma averaging 11.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.1 assist and 2.3 steals. His season-high was 27 points against Cimberio Varese.
Nihad Djedovic joined Lottomatica Roma last summer from Regal Barca. The Spanish giant sent Djedovic on loan. Lottomatica competed in Euroleague last season, where Djedovic added 9.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 1.7 spg. They reached Top 16. In the past, Djedovic was a member of Xacobeo BS Obradoiro (loan), Cornella (loan) and Bosna ASA BHT. He is officially a member of Barcelona.
Nihad Djedovic played for the Bosnian NT at the Qualifications to European Championships 2011. He shined with 12.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.2 spg for 10 games. He played for Bosnians also at the Qualifications to European Championships 2009. He is member of the Bosnian NT since 2007.

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  BRAZIL   


Federico Kammerichs joins Flamengo - by Eurobasket News
Federico Kammerichs (203-F/C-80) will play in Brazil in the next season. The player confirmed the move to Flamengo. The 30-year-old forward played for Regatas Corrientes since 2008. Last season Federico Kammerichs averaged 12.8 points, 8.9 rebounds, 1.9 blocks and 1.4 assists per game in Liga Americas. In LigaA the forward notched 12.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.1 blocks per appearance. Kammerichs was named Latinbasket.com All-Liga Americas Player of the Year in 2011. He was also trumped LigaA Forward of the Year. Federico Kammerichs played for Argentina at 2010 World Championship. His stats read 0.7 points and 1.3 rebounds per game in Turkey. The forward is the member of Argentinean National Team since 2000.


U16 Brazil smashes U16 Costa Rica for the first win in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
COSTA RICA - BRAZIL 53-92

Both teams failed in Day One of the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. This time, Brazil blasted Costa Rica 92-53 for 1-1 record in Group B. Of course, Costa Rica dropped to 0-2 and lost all chances to reach the Semifinals. Lucas Dias (96) paced the winners with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Guilherme Naleagaca (95) scored 12 points and Adriano Alves (95) added two less. In Costa Rica, Milton Jimenez (95) shined with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Their second scorer was Henry Sanchez (95) wit 8 pts. Brazil dominated and was holding the comfortable lead during the entire game. They started with 11-22 in Q1 and jumped to plus 24 at the HT. CRC made 17-13 after the breather and Brazil closed this meeting with huge 11-30.
Today, Brazil will meet Argentina and the winner will advance to Semifinals. Costa Rica will play against powerful USA.

Costa Rica: Milton Jimenez 23+8 boards, Henry Sanchez 8
Brazil: Lucas Dias 21+9 boards, Guilherme Naleagaca 12, Adriano Alves 10

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  BULGARIA   


Bulgaria U18 preliminary squad for Eurobasket 2011 - by Maria Mitzova
Bulgaria U18 national team is preparing for European championship, Division B, which will host form July 21 to July 31 in Varna.
Head coach Lyubomir Minchev chose the following players to prepare, and will make a final cut right before the championship, mid-July.

Deyan Karamfilov (179-G-94)
Dimitar Petrov (180-G-93)
Nikolay Marinov (178-G-94)
Angel Natskin (182-G-93)

Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket)
Damyan Stoyanov
Angel Natskin (182-G-93)
Kris Minkov (197-F-94)
Nikolay Stoyanov (195-F-94)

Tencho Tenchev (202-F-93)
Georgi Dangalakov
Aleks Simeonov (195-C-93)
Dimitar Dimitrov (203-F-93)
Rayko Dundalov (199-F/C-93)

Velislav Galabov
Denislav Vutev (206-C-94)
Denis Titov (207-C-94)


Levski one more time in Balkan League - by Valentin Anguelov
Men's team of Levski Sofia will play again in the Balkan League next season. That will be the third season in row for this team to be a part of this regional competition. Bulgarian basketball federation send a official letter to BIBL to inform them about participation of Levski Sofia in the league.

Levski Sofia is the champion of the Balkan League for 2010 and last season played in the Final Four of the competition. In domestic league Levski Sofia won second place and came to the silver medal in the Cup of Bulgaria.

On the Romanian side, almost certainly in the next edition of the Balkan League will participate Mures and Timisoara. Mures already playing in the league last season and finished fourth in their group with 3 wins and 5 defeats while the team from Timisoara will make a debut in the tournament.

Bulgaria U20 preliminary squad for Eurobasket 2011 - by Maria Mitzova
Bulgaria U20 head coach Petar Klechkov chose preliminary squad to prepare for the European championship, Division B. The team has to play four more friendlies before the championship, that starts July 14th. The final roster will be decided after the last test game on July 4th.

Roster

Ventsislav Stoev (182-G-92)
Darin Ivanov (181-G-91)
Planimir Dafinov (181-G-92)
Stanislav Tsonkov (191-G-91)
Samuel Francis (190-G-92)
Ivan Runyov (187-G/F-92)
Todor Zahariev

Konstantin Koev (206-C-91)
Plamen Hristov (197-F-91)
Hakan Serbezov (196-F-91)
Lachezar Radev (205-C-91)
Antonio Iliev (202-F-92)
Georgi Kunov (205-C-92)
Ilhan Arabadjiev (194-F-91)

Bulgaria NT preliminary squad for Eurobasket 2011 - by Maria Mitzova
Head coach Rosen Barchovski (agency: Interperformances ) announced the preliminary squad to prepare for Eurobasket 2011. It is still not clear which American with Bulgarian passport will feature this summer for Bulgaria. The team will have a new assistant coach Ivan Cholakov , as well as Lyubomir Minchev and fitness coach Branko Karaljic .

Roster

Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky)
Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88)
Chavdar Kostov (196-G-88, agency: Interperformances)
Bozhidar Avramov (196-G-90, agency: Interperformances)
Zlatin Stanislav Vaklinov (206-F-89, agency: Interperformances) (195-G-85)
Tihomir Zhelev (192-G-90)
Aleksandar Gruev (187-G-83)
Asen Velikov (188-G-86)
Plamen Aleksiev (180-G-87)

Kaloyan Ivanov (205-F-86)
Dejan Ivanov (205-F/C-86)
Stanislav Vaklinov (206-F-89, agency: Interperformances)
Aleksandar Yanev (203-F-90, agency: Interperformances)
Pavel Ivanov (200-F-88)
Pavel Marinov (197-G-88, agency: Interperformances)

Tencho Banev (209-C-80, agency: Interperformances)
Stefan Georgiev (206-C/F-78)
Nikolay Varbanov (209-C-85, agency: Interperformances)
Dinko Marshavelski (210-F/C)


Turkey rally past Bulgaria in Douai - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Bulgaria U18 85:59

Turkey earned the second consecutive win at the Douai international tournament in France. They held off Bulgarian counterparts. Tayfun Erulku (188-G/F-94) stepped up with 18 points to pace the winning side.
Turkey dominated right from the start. They built a comfortable 23:12 lead after ten minutes of action. Turkey continued to mount the pressure in the second quarter. They established a 43:25 halftime lead. The margin grew at 30 points in the third term. Turkey entered the fourth period leading 73:37. Bulgaria sweetened the pill with a 22:12 run in the fourth term. Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) knocked down 14 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for Turkey. Berkay Candan (205-F-93) added 12 points in the victory. Tencho Tenchev (202-F-93) answered with 13 points for Bulgaria. Galabov delivered 10 points and 7 boards in the loss.

Turkey U18: Tayfun Erulku 18, Ramazan Tekin 14, Berkay Candan 12
Bulgaria U18: Tencho Tenchev 13, Galabov 10


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  CANADA   


Puerto Rico grabs 90-86 win against Canada, Cartagena 36 pts - by Eurobasket News
CANADA - PUERTO RICO 86-90

Puerto Rico jumped to 2-0 record in Cancun. They handed 90-86 loss to Canada staying on top of Group A. It was the first loss to Canada, who shares the second place with Chile now (1-1). Canada opened the game strongly making 28-18 lead. However, Puerto Rico replied with 13-22 in the second period. Miguel Cartagena (186-G-95) and his teammates continued in the same rhythm after the breather and they were 5-point up with 10:00 to go. In very exciting last quarter, Puerto Rico managed to keep their lead and to celebrate second straight win at the U16 FIBA Americas championship. Miguel Cartagena exploded in this game with 36 points. He made 5 triples and also 15 of 17 attempts from the line. Ariel Watson (95) had 17 points and 6 rebounds, while Eliel Gonzalez (189-G-95) added 14 points, 5 rebs and 8 assists. In Canada, Marial Shayok (95) (6 rebs) and Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G) (5 rebs, 5 as) netted 17 points each. Malcom Duvivier (95) followed them with 15 pts and 6 rebs.
In Day Three, Puerto Rico will meet Chile and it will most probably be the crucial game for the first place in Group A. Canada will play against Mexico.

Canada: Marial Shayok 17+6 boards, Kevin-Mbezela Zabo 17+5 boards+5 as, Malcom Duvivier 15+6 boards
Puerto Rico: Miguel Cartagena 36, Ariel Watson 17+6 boards, Eliel Gonzalez 14+5 boards+8 as

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  CBL   


Standings
CBL Standings
North
 1. Cary Invasion 11-1 
 2. Birmingham S. 8-3 
 3. Wilmington SD 5-6 
 4. Fayetteville C. 2-9 
South
 1. Heartland P. 6-4 
 2. Florida Flight 5-6 
 3. Gainesville G. 4-7 
 4. Port City 0-4 


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  CHILE   


Chile takes the first win in Cancun, Mexico drops to 0-2 - by Eurobasket News
CHILE - MEXICO 80-54

Chile registered first win in Cancun. They cruised past Mexico 80-54 for 1-1 record in Group A. On other side, Mexico faced with their second loss at the U16 FIBA Americas championship. Eugenio Luzcando (95) stepped up for the winners with 15 points. Ricardo Cardenas (95) had 14 points and 5 rebs, while Martin Pino (95) added 11 points and 5 assists. For the hosts, Omar De Haro (95) netted 16 points and David Elias (95) stopped to 10. Chile had wonderful beginning as they made 32-12 lead in just ten minutes. It was also the crucial period in this game and Mexico never recovered. Quarters: 32-12, 15-13, 11-17, 22-12.
In the last game of the Preliminary Round, Chile will meet Puerto Rico. Mexico will take on Canada.

Chile: Eugenio Luzcando 15, Ricardo Cardenas 14+5 boards, Martin Pino 11+5 as
Mexico: Omar De Haro 16, David Elias 10

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  CHINA   


Wiggins' double-double lands him NBL Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
25-year old forward Alan Wiggins (206-F-85) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Whampoa and receives a Asia-basket.com NBL Player of the Week award for round 5.
He had a double-double of 31 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat Ningxia Hanas (#4, 3-2) 93-84. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Whampoa is placed at 2nd position in Chinese NBL. They are still close to the very top. Whampoa would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 4-1 record. In the team's last game Wiggins had a remarkable 66.7% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Whampoa, being already a very valuable addition to the team. University of San Francisco graduate has very impressive stats this year. Wiggins is in league's top in points (2nd best: 25.0ppg), rebounds (4th best: 13.8rpg) and averages solid 1.6bpg and 55.0% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Terence Dials (206-F/C-83) of Hebei. He is American forward in his first season at Hebei. In the last game Dials recorded impressive double-double of 19 points and 20 rebounds. It was enough for Hebei to edge the lower-ranked Changan Group (#7, 2-3) by 3 points 71-68. This victory allowed Hebei to move up to 3rd position in the standings. His team's 3-2 record is not bad at all. Dials is one of the most experienced players at Hebei and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 21.6ppg (#8). He also registered 13.0 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Dante Milligan (206-F-84) of Hangzhou (#10). Milligan scored 21 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). Despite Milligan's great performance Hangzhou lost 83-94 to the higher-ranked Heilongjiang (#5, 2-3). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Hangzhou can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 1-4 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Milligan he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Milligan has individually a great season in China. After only 5 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 25.0ppg (best scorer) and rebounds with 14.0rpg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Kenny Lawson (205-C-88) of Jiangsu - 17 points and 13 rebounds
5. Jartavious Henderson (203-F-87) of Guangzhou FM - 23 points, 15 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Nick Stallings (190-G-83) of Changan Group - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Ma Chao (196-F-86) of Sichuan - 17 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Austen Powers (203-F-87) of Hangzhou - 25 points and 6 rebounds
9. Benson Egemonye (207-C-83) of Heilongjiang - 15 points and 11 rebounds
10. DeAngelo Collins (206-F-82) of ShenYang - 10 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists

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

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  COSTA RICA   


U16 Brazil smashes U16 Costa Rica for the first win in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
COSTA RICA - BRAZIL 53-92

Both teams failed in Day One of the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. This time, Brazil blasted Costa Rica 92-53 for 1-1 record in Group B. Of course, Costa Rica dropped to 0-2 and lost all chances to reach the Semifinals. Lucas Dias (96) paced the winners with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Guilherme Naleagaca (95) scored 12 points and Adriano Alves (95) added two less. In Costa Rica, Milton Jimenez (95) shined with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Their second scorer was Henry Sanchez (95) wit 8 pts. Brazil dominated and was holding the comfortable lead during the entire game. They started with 11-22 in Q1 and jumped to plus 24 at the HT. CRC made 17-13 after the breather and Brazil closed this meeting with huge 11-30.
Today, Brazil will meet Argentina and the winner will advance to Semifinals. Costa Rica will play against powerful USA.

Costa Rica: Milton Jimenez 23+8 boards, Henry Sanchez 8
Brazil: Lucas Dias 21+9 boards, Guilherme Naleagaca 12, Adriano Alves 10

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  CROATIA   


Russia U19 and Croatia U19 play three friendlies - by Eurobasket News
Russia U19 and Croatia U19 play three friendlies with each other for the preparation at the U19 World Championship Draw to be held in Riga, Latvia.
At first Russia won over Croatia 95:90. It was one of the best games and remained the spectators alive until the every end. Russia made the final push to seal the victory in the opener. Vladislav Trushkin (200-F-93) stepped up with 24 points and Sergey Karasev (203-F-93) added 22. Mikhail Kulagin (188-G-94) ended up with 16 points in the winning effort. In the second game Russia celebrated 75;65 win as the teams paid more attention to defense. Vladislav Trushkin top-scored for the winners with 13 points and Mikhail Kulagin netted 10. In Game 3 Croatia took an easy 90:62 win.
The 10th Edition of the tournament will be held in Latvia from 30 June through 10 July 2011. Russia settled down in Group A with Tunisia, Brazil and Poland. Croatia will play in Group C with South Korea, Canada and Lithuania.
The best three teams from each group will advance into the next round and will make up two groups with six teams in each. Best four teams from the groups of the second stage will qualify into the quarterfinals. The USA team are the reigning champions as they defeated Greece in 2009 tournament Final.



Croatian U18 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Stipe Cubric
Cubric
Matej Buovac
Buovac
Petar Madunic
Madunic
Mario Matasovic
Matasovic
Tomislav Grubisic
Grubisic
#e#5
4 Stipe Cubric 182-G-93 Dubrava Croatia
5 Matej Kljajic 93 Svjetlost Croatia
6 Jakov Mustapic 188-G-94 Cedevita Croatia
7 Tomislav Grubisic 193-G-93 JOLLY JBS Croatia
8 Matej Buovac 198-F/G-93 Dubrava Croatia
11 Petar Madunic 210-C-93 KK Split Croatia
12 Filip Cvjeticanin 204-C-93 Estudiantes Spain
9 Antonio Boban 200-F-93 Kvarner 2010 Croatia
10 Antonio Crnjevic 195-F-94 Zabok Croatia
13 Ante Smolic 205-C-93 Pet Bunara Croatia
14 Mario Matasovic 200-F-93 Svjetlost Croatia
15 Josip Mikulic 210-F-93 High School USA



Germany edge Croatia for second straight win in Douai - by Eurobasket News
Germany U18 - Croatia U18 65:63

German U18 National Team ensured the second win in a row at Douai International Tournament in France. Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) stepped up with 18 points to pace the winners. Croatia in the meantime slipped at 0-2 record after the loss.
Croatia ensured the better start to the game. The Balkan team posted a 17:10 lead after ten minutes. Germany increased tempo in the second period and cut the deficit to a single point 29:30 at the interval. The teams traded baskets throughout the third period as Croatia entered the fourth frame up by one point 46:45. However Germany turned things around late in regulation. Schroder drained a triple, then followed with a jumper and a free throw to give the Bundesteam a 64:63 lead. Filip Cvjeticanin (204-C-93) missed a triple and Dennis Schroeder (184-G-93) sealed the winning outcome from the charity stripe. Dennis Schroeder finished with 13 points, while Anselm Hartmann (190-G-93) and Johannes Richter (203-F/C-93) added 6 points each in the win. Josip Mikulic (210-F-93) replied with 18 points and 10 rebounds for Croatia. Filip Cvjeticanin netted 15 points in the loss.

Germany U18: Bogdan Radosavljevic 18, Dennis Schroeder 13, Anselm Hartmann 6, Johannes Richter 6
Croatia U18: Josip Mikulic 18+10 boards, Filip Cvjeticanin 15



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  CYPRUS   


Disappointment on the Cypriot Player of the Year Award..... - by Dr. Nasios Orinos
It seems that there is great disappointment for the action of Cyprus Basketball Federation to assign the 'Cypriot Player of the Year Award' to Panagiotis Trisokkas ignoring the fact that other players have had a better season or have won titles.

Different people seem to have expressed their wonder and dissatisfaction.
We need to highlight that this is in direct contrast with eurobasket.com awards. As known, eurobasket.com has awarded the award of Cypriot Player of the Year to George Anastasiadis.

George has greatly helped his team throughout the regular season, but mainly was the player who practically beat Ael at the final and led his team to the double.

This should have been a crucial criteria from the Cyprus Basketball Federation on assigning this award.

With these George had advanced to 5 cups, 6 championships and 2 super-cups, which consists of a great record.

Besides George, Michael Kounounis was also great during the playoffs, practically leading his team, Ael, from the 6th position to the final, losing the title just at a 5th game.

How come and none of these two players has earned this award? It is a great mystery!!

The Cyprus basketball world is wondering what is going on?



Statistical Formulas and how important they are

We have stressed this many times. In basketball, statistical formulas should not be the only criteria for assigning awards. Statistical formulas and the so- called Tendex Score fail to account for the invincible side of the game. Defense, leadership, leading your team to a title and many more are never accounted in any basketball statistical formula.



*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Czech Republic U20 remain winless in Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic U20 remain winless in Turkey. In Day 2 Latvia U20 edged Czech Republic U20 71:67. Both squads nailed 18 points each in the opening frame, while the Baltic side needed 25-18 to take control in the game. Czech Republic responded with 16-12 in the third frame, whilst Latvia won the game due to 16-15 in the last quarter. Martins Meiers poured in 25 points for the winners and Enrijs Ansons scored 13. Jaromir Bohacik (198-F-92) finished the game with 18 points, while Tomas Vyoral (190-G-92) notched 17.
In Day 3 Turkey improved to 3-0 record after the difficult win over Czech Republic 75:72. Trailing 19-18 after the first 10 minutes, the hosts produced a 20-16 in the second frame and added 19-15 in the third period. Czech Republic tried to recover but won the last frame 22-18. Mutaf top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Edge posted 13. Ondrej Balvin (218-C-92) ended up with 17 points and 9 rebounds in defeat, while Tomas Vyoral scored 15.


Martin Miklosik heads to CEZ Nymburk - by Eurobasket News
Martin Miklosik (226-C-86, agency: JEMsports) heads to CEZ Nymburk as he will join recently new signed point guard Eugene Lawrence (184-G-86, college: St.John's) and forward Lukas Palyza (204-F-89). The Slovakian Center will arrive from BK Breda & Weinstein Opava.
In 2001-2003 Martin joined Chemosvit Svit (Slovakia) youth teams and in 2004-2005 played for Worthersee Piraten (Austria-Bundesliga M1). In February 2007 signed at FMP Zeleznik Beograd and in 2007-2008 played for Basket Torrejon (Spain-1 Div.). In 13 games he averaged 11.2ppg, 5.9bpg, 10.5rpg, 2FGP: 58.6%, while in Play-off after 5 games showed 12.8ppg, 3.0bpg, 9.6rpg, 2FGP: 56.7%. In 2008-2009 moved to C.B. Aridane Tenerife (Spain-EBA, starting five) and averaged 9.1ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.2bpg, 2FGP: 53.0%, FT: 55.0%. In 2009-2010 played for Clinicas Rincon Axarquia (Spain-LEB Gold) and also played at Unicaja II Malaga (Spain-EBA) showing 9.4ppg, 7.0rpg, 0.9apg, 2.1bpg, 2FGP: 62%, 3PT: 0%, FT: 62%. Last season started for BK Breda & Weinstein Opava (Czech Rep.-NBL, starting five) and in 36 games his stats read 6.0ppg, 4.3rpg, Blocks-2 (1.2bpg), FGP: 50.6%, FT: 51.3%.
Martin Miklosik recorded 17 points and 10 rebounds last season at the Regular Season Round 11. B&W Opava that time shocked Novy Jicin 91-89.


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  EBA   


EBA Adds Team in New York Area - by EBA Media
The Eastern Basketball Alliance (EBA) has added the New York Jaguars to its stellar lineup on New York area teams. League President, Dick Anzolut said today, Were pleased to welcome the Jaguars to our league. They are a good fit to go along with the New York Wizards, Hudson Valley Hype and Brooklyn Pride.

The addition of this team fits closely with our league philosophy of keeping the teams separated enough for successful marketing yet close enough for convenient travel.

The Jaguars will play in the growing Williamsburg metropolitan area at the John D Wells Junior High School 50 at 183 S 3rd St. They will be coached by Rodolphe Metivier. Emilio Dejesus Jason Diaz is CEO and General Manager.

Diaz said, Were proud to join the EBA with its over fifteen years of tradition. Our team will feature top-level professionals currently playing summer ball in Europe and Asia. In addition, ex-college stars from the New York area round out the team roster. We look forward to competing against the outstanding talent in the EBA.


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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


ESL Las Vegas Information - by Eurobasket
Dear ESL Las Vegas Participants,

The Texas Station Gambling Hall and Hotel will be the host hotel of the Eurobasket Summer League (ESL) and the Global Basketball Expo (GBE) in Las Vegas.

The ESL will provide a return shuttle service from the hotel to the Eurobasket events at the Doolittle Community Center for all ESL and GBE participants.

The Texas Station Hotel is located five minutes from the strip and features an 18 screen movie cinema, 60 lane bowling center, a variety of restaurants and a 125 foot casino with newly renovated deluxe hotel rooms.

The ESL special room rate for participants including, players, coaches, agents and ESL guest are as follows:
July 7th ($30)
July 8th ($65)
July 9th ($65)
July 10th ($30)

Contact the Texas Station Gambling Hall and Hotel Reservations (1 800.654.8888) to book our special rate by using 'TCITASM or Eurobasket' as the booking code.
The Rooms must be booked by July 1st.

ESL players who prefer to have the option of having a roommate please contact or office or email us at marketing@eurobasket.com in order for us to make the arrangement with another ESL player.

All players should arrive in Las Vegas by July 7th for orientation/registration and team practices. In the evening there will be a ESL Grand Opening Party at the Texas Station Casino providing the opportunity for international scouts, players, GBE participants, agents, NBA scouts to socialize and network.

All ESL and GBE events will begin at 9am on July 8th and the event will be over by 6pm on July10th.

The ESL will provide a light airport shuttle for players arriving in Las Vegas on July 7th to the Texas Station Hotel and returning to the airport on July 11th.
There will be other transportation information from the airport to the Texas Station Gambling Hall and Hotel provided to all ESL participants by email prior to the event.

The Texas Station Gambling Hall and Hotel is providing a buffet deal for $26 dollars per day to all ESL guests for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

For additional information regarding the ESL Las Vegas contact marekting@eurobasket.com


ESL Cologne Information - by Eurobasket
Dear ESL Cologne Participants,

The Park Inn by Radisson Cologne City-West will be the host hotel of the Eurobasket Summer League (ESL) Germany event.
http://www.parkinn.com/hotel-colognecitywest

There will be a return shuttle service from the hotel to the Eurobasket events at the Ball Park Venue for all ESL participants.

The ESL recommends that all United States players arrive in Germany by June 14th in order to acclimate to Central European Time (CET) and the effects of jet lag.
The ESL will provide a shuttle service from the airport to the host hotel on June 14th and a return service on July 18th.
Players will be required to notify the ESL of the arrival and departure schedule prior to the ESL Germany event.
The host hotel will be available for all ESL participants from June 10th - June 18th at our special rate.
Players who do arrive earlier than June 14th will be required to contact our office to set up practice times at the Ball Park venue.

The Park Inn by Radisson Cologne City-West is offering the following special rates for the Eurobasket Summer League:
- Single Room including breakfast (72 Euros) per night.
- Double Rooms (2 beds) including breakfast (90 Euros) per night (45 Euros per person)

To book the special ESL rates please telephone reservations on +49 221 5701 921 or email reservations.cologne@proventhotels.com and the special code is Eurobasket Summer League. (Please dial 011 then the country code (49) when calling from the United States).

ESL players who prefer to have the option of having a roommate (45 Euros per night) please contact or office or email us at marketing@eurobasket.com in order for us to make the arrangement with another ESL player.

The ESL urges all USA players to exchange money at the airport in Germany as the Euro will be the required currency.

The Park Inn by Radisson Cologne City is located 15 minutes from the Ball Park Venue and is easily accessible to downtown Cologne which is has many attractions and activities.

Cologne is one of the largest cities in Germany and is consider a top European destination featuring many quality restaurants, museums, great transportation system, unique night life scene and hosts a variety of cultural events.
Click the following link to access more information on Cologne, Germany http://www.koeln.de/cologne_tourist_information

The ESL Germany event will begin on June 15th at 10am with a registration and orientation session for all of the players which will be followed by team practice sessions.

On July 17th the final game will be over by 530pm - 6pm.

The ESL will send further updates with the game schedules and team rosters near to the event date.

For additional information regarding the ESL Germany event contact marekting@eurobasket.com


DJ Stevie D again at ESL - by Eurobasket
ESL is proud to announce that Steven (DJ Stevie D) Taylor will be joining us once again this summer.
Steven has been the voice of the ESL for the past three years displaying his DJ and play by play commentating skills..
His knowledge of the game and great sense of humor has made him a crowd pleaser.
The players always grow to love his play by play analysis after getting comfortable with his quick witted commentary.

Steven is no stranger to the basketball community. Steven hails from Chicago, IL.
He started off, coaching at the recreational level, then moved up to high school, and went on to coach at three different colleges.
Since coaching college, he has trained many overseas pro ball players as well as a few NBA players.
He also worked as an agent.

Steven will come into the 2011 ESL as the defending champion for the ESL Chicago event.
He has been to the ESL Chicago Championship game in each of his 3 years as a coach, while winning it 2 out of the three years.
We really appreciate Steven working with us while he is currently interviewing for coaching jobs in Europe.
The European team that employs him will be getting a quality coach.
He has the unique ability to take a group of players that have never played together and create a team with perfect chemistry.
The ESL appreciates Stevens contribution to our ESL brand and recognizes him as an outstanding person and coach.
The ESL is looking forward to another exciting summer with Steven the voice of the ESL.


*****************************************************
  EUROLEAGUE   


Regal Barca will part ways with Alan Anderson and Terence Morris - by Eurobasket News
Alan Anderson (198-G/F-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan St.) and Terence Morris (207-F-79, college: Maryland) won't play for Regal Barca next season. Their contracts with the reigning Spanish champion will expire on June 30 and Barca will not offer extension.
Alan Anderson joined Barca in December from the New Mexico Thunderbirds (NBDL). He appeared 10 times in Euroleague averaging 11.4 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists. In ACB, Anderson added 10.6 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 1 apg. However, it was not enough for him to secure an extension. Anderson spent last season with Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv.
Terence Morris also joined Barca last summer. He had 6.6 ppg and 4 rpg for 20 Euroleague games. Morris also added 5.9 ppg and 3.3 rpg in 41 ACB league appearances.
Yesterday, Regal Barca announced signing of Chuck Eidson, who was a teammate of Anderson and Morris in Maccabi.

Unics lands Alexey Savrasenko - by Eurobasket News
Just a day after he left Khimky, Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) already got a new job. The experienced Russian center signed a deal with Unics Kazan for season 2010/11. Unics was the EuroCup winner this year so they will compete in Euroleague next season.
Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) joined Khimky at the start of the previous season. He tallied 4.6 points and 3.2 rebounds per game in VTB-League. In Euroleague, Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) accounted for 4.2 points and 3.2 rebounds per appearance. In PBL, the centre notched 5.7 points and 3.4 rebounds. Previously the player had stints with Olympiakos, Peristeri, CSKA Moscow and Dynamo Moscow. Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) was named Eurobasket.com All-Russian Superleague Centre of the Year in 2006.
Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) played for the Russian National Team from 2001 to 2008. He helped them win the Gold at the EuroBasket 2007 in Spain. For 9 games at this event Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) had 6.4 ppg and 2.6 rpg.

Khimky release Lazaros Papadopoulos - by Eurobasket News
Khimky have opted not to extend the contract of Lazaros Papadopoulos (210-C-80, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group). The centre joined Khimky in February. He averaged 4.2 points, 4.3 boards and 1.6 assists per game in PBL. In VTB-League Lazaros Papadopoulos tallied 6.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.0 assists per appearance. The centre started the season in Greece. Lazaros Papadopoulos played for PAOK Thessaloniki. His stats read 11.5 points, 7.5 boards and 2.2 assists in A1 League. In EuroCup the centre posted 16.0 points, 12.2 boards and 2.5 assists. Lazaros Papadopoulos was named All-Russian Superleague Centre of the Year twice in 2005 and 2007. He then played for Dynamo Moscow. In 2006 Eurobasket.com trumped Lazaros Papadopoulos All-ULEB Cup Centre of the Year.


Unics bring in Marcus Williams - by Eurobasket News
Unics continued to bolster their roster. After signing Alexey Savrasenko the Kazan team has agreed on terms of contract with Marcus Williams (191-G-85, college: Connecticut). The 25-year-old guard spent the previous season in Enisey. The guard tallied 12.0 points, 6.5 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round. In PBL Marcus Williams posted 15.3 points, 6.8 assists and 3.6 boards per appearance. The guard made it into Eurobasket.com Russian PBL All-Imports Team. Previously Marcus Williams played for the New Jersey Nets, Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA and Quebradillas Pirates in Puerto Rico. He was named Latinbasket.com All-Puerto Rican BSN Import Player of the Year in 2009. Marcus Williams made it into NBA All-Rookie 2nd Team in 2007. The guard played for USA U21 National Team.



Bamberg keeps Tibor Pleiss, Maccabi Electra adds Devin Smith - by Eurobasket News
Brose Baskets Bamberg announced signing of one-year contract extension with the German NT member Tibor Pleiss (214-F/C-89). The young center averaged 6.7 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.5 block for 10 Euroleague games this season. He also added 8.9 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 1.6 bpg in 24 games in Germany. He helped Bamberg defend the championship title. They also celebrated in German Cup this year. Pleiss joined Bamberg in 2009 from Koeln 99ers.
At the same time, Maccabi Electra came up with the new signing. The Israeli powerhouse penned a two-year deal with Devin Smith (196-G/F-81, college: Virginia). The American forward spent last season with Benetton Treviso. He appeared 18 times in EuroCup with them collecting 15.1 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 1.7 apg and 1.8 spg. Benetton reached Semifinals and Smith was named Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup Forward of the Year. In Italian league, Smith had 13.7 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 1.5 spg. He joined Benetton from Panellinios last summer.

Cholet lands Robert Hite - by Eurobasket News
Robert Hite (188-G-84, college: Miami, FL) is a new member of Cholet. The former French champion signed a one-year deal with Hite. He arrives from Limoges, where he finished last season. Hite joined Limoges in February and he averaged 16.2 points, 4 rebounds and 2.8 assists for 13 games. He helped Limoges reach the French Cup Finals. Hite started last season in Israel with Hapoel Holon. He had 15.9 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 1.8 spg for 16 games. Before Limoges and Hapoel Holon, Hite also played for Pepsi Juve Caserta, Reggio Emilia, Montegranaro, Oostende, Tau Ceramica, Melilla, Breogan and Galatasaray.
Robert Hite played for the Miami Heat on season 2006/07. He appeared 12 times for them in NBA registering 4.3 ppg and 1.3 rpg. He is a product of the University of Miami, Florida, where he graduated in 2006.

CSKA Moscow and Sani Becirovic part ways - by Eurobasket News
Sani Becirovic (195-G-81) is no longer a member of CSKA Moscow. The Russian powerhouse did not exercise option to keep the Slovenian guard. Becirovic joined CSKA in March from Turk Telekom Ankara. He appeared just twice in VTB United league. With Turk Telekom Becirovic had 16.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 2.3 apg for 6 games in EuroChallenge. He also added 13.9 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 2.7 apg for 20 games in TBL.

Andrey Vatutin, CSKA President:
'Sani took a difficult decision in March to change the club in the course of the season. We appreciate his professionalism, hard work, the desire to be an integral part of our team. He helped CSKA a lot in the end of the season, he starred in several games and lessened the load on our veteran leaders. His charisma, open character, sense of humor added a lot of positive energy into our team chemistry in difficult days for all of us. Wed like to thank Sani for his work which helped us to win just another championship title and we wish him all the best in his future career.' *

Sani Becirovic:
'Surely, I hoped that I will be needed by CSKA in future. I think I was able to help the team as much as I could; I gave all of myself on the court. I am sorry that I did not have another chance to show myself but thats life. In my opinion, I had good experience, and I leave CSKA with warm feelings towards the great team and organization, and I wish all the best to CSKA in future!' *Courtesy of www.cskabasket.com

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  FIBA AMERICAS U16   


Day Two in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Canada - Puerto Rico 86-90
Puerto Rico jumped to 2-0 record in Cancun. They handed 90-86 loss to Canada staying on top of Group A. It was the first loss to Canada, who shares the second place with Chile now (1-1). Canada opened the game strongly making 28-18 lead. However, Puerto Rico replied with 13-22 in the second period. Miguel Cartagena (186-G-95) and his teammates continued in the same rhythm after the breather and they were 5-point up with 10:00 to go. In very exciting last quarter, Puerto Rico managed to keep their lead and to celebrate second straight win at the U16 FIBA Americas championship. Miguel Cartagena exploded in this game with 36 points. He made 5 triples and also 15 of 17 attempts from the line. Ariel Watson (95) had 17 points and 6 rebounds, while Eliel Gonzalez (189-G-95) added 14 points, 5 rebs and 8 assists. In Canada, Marial Shayok (95) (6 rebs) and Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G) (5 rebs, 5 as) netted 17 points each. Malcom Duvivier (95) followed them with 15 pts and 6 rebs.
In Day Three, Puerto Rico will meet Chile and it will most probably be the crucial game for the first place in Group A. Canada will play against Mexico.

Chile - Mexico 80-54
Chile registered first win in Cancun. They cruised past Mexico 80-54 for 1-1 record in Group A. On other side, Mexico faced with their second loss at the U16 FIBA Americas championship. Eugenio Luzcando (95) stepped up for the winners with 15 points. Ricardo Cardenas (95) had 14 points and 5 rebs, while Martin Pino (95) added 11 points and 5 assists. For the hosts, Omar De Haro (95) netted 16 points and David Elias (95) stopped to 10. Chile had wonderful beginning as they made 32-12 lead in just ten minutes. It was also the crucial period in this game and Mexico never recovered. Quarters: 32-12, 15-13, 11-17, 22-12.
In the last game of the Preliminary Round, Chile will meet Puerto Rico. Mexico will take on Canada.

Group B
Costa Rica - Brazil 53-92
Both teams failed in Day One of the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. This time, Brazil blasted Costa Rica 92-53 for 1-1 record in Group B. Of course, Costa Rica dropped to 0-2 and lost all chances to reach the Semifinals. Lucas Dias (96) paced the winners with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Guilherme Naleagaca (95) scored 12 points and Adriano Alves (95) added two less. In Costa Rica, Milton Jimenez (95) shined with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Their second scorer was Henry Sanchez (95) wit 8 pts. Brazil dominated and was holding the comfortable lead during the entire game. They started with 11-22 in Q1 and jumped to plus 24 at the HT. CRC made 17-13 after the breather and Brazil closed this meeting with huge 11-30.
Today, Brazil will meet Argentina and the winner will advance to Semifinals. Costa Rica will play against powerful USA.

USA - Argentina 102-81
USA was too strong for Argentina 102-81 in Day Two of the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. It means that USA jumped to 2-0 in Group B and already booked a spot for the Semifinals. They also secured first place in this pool. Argentina dropped to 1-1 and still has a nice chance to reach the Semis. Jabari Parker (95) came up with 21 points and 7 rebounds in victory. Kendrick Nunn (96) followed him with 14 points and 7 boards, while Larry Austin Jr. (96) added 11 pts. In Argentina, Alvaro Merlo (5'7''-G-95) delivered 15 points. Rodrigo Haag (95) had 13 pts and 6 rebs, while Lucio Reinaudi (95) added 12 pts. Second quarter was the crucial one in this game (30-11). Argentina never recovered from it and USA had no troubles to keep the comfortable lead. Quarters: (22-23, 30-11, 22-17, 28-30.
In the last day of the Preliminary Round, USA will meet Costa Rica. Argentina will take on Brazil.

Standings
Standings
Group A
1. P.Rico2-0
2. Canada1-1
3. Chile1-1
4. Mexico0-2
Group B
1. USA2-0
2. Argentina1-1
3. Brazil1-1
4. Costa Rica.0-2


*****************************************************
  FRANCE   


Ronny Turiaf exercises his player option to return to the New York Knicks - by Eurobasket News
28-year old PF/C Ronny Turiaf (6'10''-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) has exercised his player option to return to the New York Knicks in 2011-12 worth $4.36 million bucks. Turiaf arrived to NY last summer from the Golden State Warriors. He played 68 NBA games this season registering 4.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.4 apg. With the Warriors in 2009/10, Turiaf had 4.9 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 2.1 apg in 42 games. He also played three years for the Los Angeles Lakers in the past. Turiaf moved to LA in 2005 from the University of Gonzaga. Lakers selected him as 37th overall pick (second round). In France, Turiaf played for INSEP.
Ronny Turiaf played for Team France at the EuroBasket 2009 in Poland. He had 7.1 ppg and 5.7 rpg in 9 games at this event. He also played for his country at EuroBasket 2009 and 2007, as well as on the World Championship 2006 in Japan.

Pape-Philippe Amagou leaves Roanne - by Eurobasket News
Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) is no longer a member of Roanne. The French/Ivorian guard decided to use his option and leave the club. Roanne offered Amagou a new deal with the salary raise, but it seems that was not enough.
Pape-Philippe Amagou joined Roanne in 2009 from Kavala. He played 33 games in ProA this season averaging 12.5 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists. In EuroCup, he added 10.2 ppg and 2.7 apg for 6 games. Amagou also registered 19 ppg for 2 Euroleague Qualifications games. Before Roanne and Kavala, Amagou played for Nancy and Le Mans. He won two ProA titles in his career, one with Le Mans and one with Nancy.
Pape-Philippe Amagou played for the French NT last summer in Turkey. In the past, he played for the Ivorian NT.

Cholet lands Robert Hite - by Eurobasket News
Robert Hite (188-G-84, college: Miami, FL) is a new member of Cholet. The former French champion signed a one-year deal with Hite. He arrives from Limoges, where he finished last season. Hite joined Limoges in February and he averaged 16.2 points, 4 rebounds and 2.8 assists for 13 games. He helped Limoges reach the French Cup Finals. Hite started last season in Israel with Hapoel Holon. He had 15.9 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 1.8 spg for 16 games. Before Limoges and Hapoel Holon, Hite also played for Pepsi Juve Caserta, Reggio Emilia, Montegranaro, Oostende, Tau Ceramica, Melilla, Breogan and Galatasaray.
Robert Hite played for the Miami Heat on season 2006/07. He appeared 12 times for them in NBA registering 4.3 ppg and 1.3 rpg. He is a product of the University of Miami, Florida, where he graduated in 2006.

Limoges CSP inks Frejus Zerbo - by Eurobasket News
Limoges CSP reinforced its squad under the basket. The French outfit landed Ivorian center Frejus Zerbo (206-C-89). The 22-year-old Zerbo heads to Limoges from Gravelines, where he spent last season. He played 24 games for them in ProA averaging 1.6 points and 1.4 rebounds. He also added 3.9 ppg and 4.4 rpg in 14 EuroChallenge games. Limoges reached Quarterfinals in this competition. Zerbo helped his team win the La Semaine des AS Cup this year. He played for Gravelines in 2009/10 as well.
Before Gravelines, Frejus Zerbo spent few years with Le Havre. In 2010, he participated at the Ivory Coast National Team camp.

France outscore Greece in Douai - by Eurobasket News
France U18 - Greece U18 64:62

French U18 National Team recorded the second straight win at the Douai Tournament. They held off Greece in thriller tonight. Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) netted 15 points to pace the winners.
Greece led 9:7 midway through the opening frame. But Les Bleus went on a 14:2 run to take a 21:11 lead. France ensured a 21:13 lead at the first break. Greece denied the deficit in the second period. The Hellenes drew things level at 25. Hugo Invernizzi capped the half with a three-pointer to give France a 33:30 lead. The teams stayed close throughout the third quarter. Melissaratos knotted things up at 50 at the end of the frame. The teams went neck and neck throughout the final quarter. Agravanis put the visitors in charge 60:59 with under two minutes to go. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) and Jean-Charles Livio (204-F/C-93) replied with five points as France grabbed a 64:60 lead. Lefteris Bohoridis (191-G-94) knocked down a jumper to pull Greece closer but the visitors ran out of time and could not save the game. Mouhammadou Jaiteh accounted for 14 points and 17 rebounds for France. Jean-Charles Livio added 11 points in the victory. Kyprianos responded with 11 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis (200-F-94) and Lefteris Bohoridis nailed 10 points each in the losing effort.

France U18: Hugo Invernizzi 15, Mouhammadou Jaiteh 14+17 boards, Jean-Charles Livio 11
Greece U18: Maragkos Kyprianos 11, Giannoulis Larentzakis 10, Lefteris Bohoridis 10


France U20 win first three in Turkey - by Eurobasket News
France U20 win first three in Turkey at the friendly tournament with 6 teams participating. In Day 1 France rolled over Russia U20 57:52. The latter opened the game with 16-9, but France responded with 21-12 in the second frame. Moreover the French side won the third and the last periods. Wilfried Yeguette paced all the winners with 13 points and Ferdinand Prenom (203-C-91) netted 10. Nikita Balashov (206-F-91) and Ruslan Tumanov replied with 12 points each in defeat.
In Day 2 France U20 overcame Ukraine U20 79:68. The winners started with 21-12 and added 23-17 in the second period. Both teams nailed 20 points each in the third quarter, while Ukraine won the last stanza 19-15. Romain Hillote stepped up with 15 points, while Evan Fournier (200-G/F-92) and Ferdinand Prenom scored 14. Andriy Lebendintsev replied with 22 points in the losing effort and Maksym Sandul collected 18 points and 10 boards.
In Day 3 France U20 beat Latvia U20 75:68 Both teams nailed 17 points each in the first period and then France needed 22-15 to take 7-point halftime advantage. The Baltic side replied with 19-15 but could not come closer. France finished the game with 21-17 to remain undefeated. Evan Fournier top-scored for the winners with 15 points, while Leo Westermann notched 14. Mareks Mejeris (207-F-91, agency: Players Group) and Janis Antrops scored 15 points each in defeat.



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


Kevin Magdowski is the new head coach at Residence Walferdange - by Daniel Poerschke
German coach Kevin Magdowski is the new head coach at Luxemburg N1 club Residence Walferdange. The 33year old Berlin native will go into his fifth season as a professional coach in Luxemburg. After starting with Walferdange in 2007, Magdowski spend time with Avanti Mondorf, the U-16 national team and last season as the head youth coordinator at BBC Sparta Bertrange. Magdowski: 'I am happy to be back as the head coach of Residence Walferdange at the top level and we will make a strong push for a play-off spot this next season.'

Germany edge Croatia for second straight win in Douai - by Eurobasket News
Germany U18 - Croatia U18 65:63

German U18 National Team ensured the second win in a row at Douai International Tournament in France. Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) stepped up with 18 points to pace the winners. Croatia in the meantime slipped at 0-2 record after the loss.
Croatia ensured the better start to the game. The Balkan team posted a 17:10 lead after ten minutes. Germany increased tempo in the second period and cut the deficit to a single point 29:30 at the interval. The teams traded baskets throughout the third period as Croatia entered the fourth frame up by one point 46:45. However Germany turned things around late in regulation. Schroder drained a triple, then followed with a jumper and a free throw to give the Bundesteam a 64:63 lead. Filip Cvjeticanin (204-C-93) missed a triple and Dennis Schroeder (184-G-93) sealed the winning outcome from the charity stripe. Dennis Schroeder finished with 13 points, while Anselm Hartmann (190-G-93) and Johannes Richter (203-F/C-93) added 6 points each in the win. Josip Mikulic (210-F-93) replied with 18 points and 10 rebounds for Croatia. Filip Cvjeticanin netted 15 points in the loss.

Germany U18: Bogdan Radosavljevic 18, Dennis Schroeder 13, Anselm Hartmann 6, Johannes Richter 6
Croatia U18: Josip Mikulic 18+10 boards, Filip Cvjeticanin 15



Tibor Pleiss Remains With The Brose Baskets Bamberg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Tibor Pleiss (214-F/C-89) will forgo the possible adventure of the NBA this season and play another year in the beko BBL for the Brose Baskets Bamberg. Pless who has won 4 titles in the last two years for the Bavarian team is content about returning for another season to play for the 4 time beko BBL champion. 'I think by staying is the right step for my develpment. I know this is the right place is to be and I get minutes. We want to fight for the title again next season and do damage in the Euroleague. I am really looking forward to that', stressed German national player Tibor Pleiss. Last season, Pleiss played 47 games: 8.9ppg, 6.5rpg, Blocks-1 (1.6bpg), FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 76.4%; Euroleague: 10 games: 6.7ppg, Reb-5 (6.3rpg), Blocks-3 (1.5bpg), FGP: 40.8%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 78.9%. 'This is a very important decision from Tibor Pleiss for our team building for this season', stated Bamberg manager Wolfgang Heyder .

Source: Brose Baskets Bamberg




The Deutsche Bank Skyliners Grab Danilo Barthel - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners have signed Danilo Barthel (206-F-91, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) to a two year contract with an option for a third year. Barthel is a 19 year old 204cm forward that will also have a license to play for the PRO B Frankfurt juniors. The young German comes from USC Heidelberg where he played since 2008. Last season the 19 year old played 14 games: 4.8ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.0apg, 58,5%fg. Frankfurt continues to show their wish for developing young German players. 'He is a flexible four man that can do a lot from outside. The ability for him to practice with the pros each day and get minutes with the PRO B team, he will be able to have the best chnace to work and develop', stated Harald Stein . Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak is also happy that the German U-20 national player will play in Frankfurt. I hope that Danilo will be able to develop well in the next years. He will be a member of the 12 man Skyliner roster and play an important role for the juniors', stated Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak . Awards and achievements in the career of Barthel have been German U18 National Team -09, European Championships U18 in Metz (France) -09: 8 games: 10.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 71.8%, German NBBL All-Star Game -10, German U20 National Team -10-11, and European Championships U20 in Croatia -10: 7 games: 0.3ppg. 'I went to a lot of games in the Ballsporthalle and now I will play there is great. I want to develop further in the next two years, make the next step toward the beko BBL and give everything each minute', expressed Danilo Barthel.

Source: Deutsche Bank Skyliners




Johannes Strasser Remains An Artland Dragon - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
No matter if it was in Cologne, Bonn or now with the Artland Dragons, Johannes Strasser (190-G-82, agency: Court Side) has always given 100% in whatever uniform he was playing in and it was no surprise that The Artland Dragons gave the German a contract extension. Strasser is a 29 year old combo guard that will be playing his second season for coach Stefan Koch . Last season, Strasser played ): EuroChallenge Qualifying Round: 2 games: 2.5ppg, 1.0apg; German League: 40 games: 6.4ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 87.2%. 'Johannes Strasser is a very important player for us and was a big part of the success last season. He played good games in the playoffs and was able to heighten his game in important phases of the playoffs. He is a great guy', lauded Artland Dragon coach Stefan Koch . Strasser is the third player together with Darren Fenn and Adam Hess that will return next season. Awards and achievements in his career have been German U18 National Team -00, Albert Schweitzer Junior Championships in Mannheim (Germany) -00, German U20 National Team -01, German Bundesliga Cup Finalist -03, German A2 National Team -03-06, German University National Team -03, 05,World University Games -03, 05, German Bundesliga Cup Winner -04, 05, 07, German National Team -04, 10, FIBA EuroCup Quarterfinals -06, German Bundesliga Champion -06, German Bundesliga Semifinals -07, 11, German Bundesliga Finalist -08, 09, German Bundesliga Cup Finalist -09, EuroChallenge Quarterfinals -09, and German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -11

Source: Artland Dragons




Darius Hargrove Joins The Mitteldeutscher BC - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The Mitteldeutscher BC have announced today that Darius Hargrove (193-G-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Virginia Union) will call Weissenfels his new home in the upcoming season who will replace Wayne Bernard who will not return. Hargrove is a 28 year old 193cm shooting guard from Warfield, Virginia. This will be his sixth professional season after making a name for himself in the Romanian league. Last season, the American played for Proteas Danoi AEL (Cyprus-Division A, starting five), in Nov.'10 moved to KFUM Jamtland Basket (Sweden-Basketligan, starting five): 35 games: Score-1 (21.9ppg), 6.2rpg, 3.7apg, Steals-3 (1.9spg), FGP: 50.1%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 80.7%, in Apr.'11 signed at VOO Verviers-Pepinster (Belgium-D1, starting five): 6 games: 13.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.3apg, 3.2spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 80.0%. 'Darius is a very experienced player that knows how to win games. He has been very successful in his career especially in Romania. He is a very variable player with good defensive qualities and good fast break play. We have found a very strong player that will help us next season', stressed MBC head coach Silvano Poropat (agency: FCM ). Hargrove is looking forward to seeing first action in Germany. 'I am happy to have the chnace to play in Germany for MBC. Our goal is to get back to the beko BBL and we will fight to get back. I am happy to be able to play at a high level', stressed Darius Hargrove.

Hargrove started his basketball career for Virginia Union (NCAA2). He turned professional in 2006 and played for CSU Asesoft Ploiesti (Romania-Div.A): released during the season: FIBA EuroCup: 6 games: 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 68.3%, 3FGP: 19.2%, FT: 70.6%. He would return in 2007 where he played , was signed just for ULEB Cup game and left in Jan.'08 after the team did not make it to the next stage of the competition: ULEB Cup: 10 games: 9.1ppg, 1.6rpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 26.9%, FT: 73.3%. However the Romanian team never lost sight of the talented American and reigned him for the 2008-2009 season where he played EuroChallenge: 4 games: 13.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0spg; Romanian League: 38 games: 15.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 79.3%. In 2009-2010, he remained with the club and played CSU Asesoft Ploiesti (Div.A, starting five): EuroChallenge: 6 games: 16.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 92.9%; Romanian League: 38 games: 17.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 45.2%, FT: 79.1%. Awards and achievements in his career have been CIAA All-Tournament Team -06, All-CIAA Team -06, All-CIAA Player of the Year -06CIAA Eastern Division Regular Season Champion -06, CIAA Tournament Winner -06, Black College All-Star Classic -06, NCAA D2 Finalist -06, NCAA D2 All-American Team -06Daktronics NCAA D2 South Atlantic Region All-America Team -06, Romanian Cup Winner -08, 09, Romanian League All-Star Game -09, Romanian League Regular Season Champion -09, Romanian League Champion -09, 10, Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League Honorable Mention -09, Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League Import Player of the Year -10, Eurobasket.com Romanian League All-Imports Team -10, Eurobasket.com Romanian League All-Defensive Team -10, Romanian Cup Semifinals -10, Eurobasket.com All-Swedish Basketligan Import Player of the Year -11, Eurobasket.com All-Swedish Basketligan 1st team -11, and Eurobasket.com Swedish Basketligan All-Imports Team -11.

Source: MBC








*****************************************************
  GREECE   


France outscore Greece in Douai - by Eurobasket News
France U18 - Greece U18 64:62

French U18 National Team recorded the second straight win at the Douai Tournament. They held off Greece in thriller tonight. Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) netted 15 points to pace the winners.
Greece led 9:7 midway through the opening frame. But Les Bleus went on a 14:2 run to take a 21:11 lead. France ensured a 21:13 lead at the first break. Greece denied the deficit in the second period. The Hellenes drew things level at 25. Hugo Invernizzi capped the half with a three-pointer to give France a 33:30 lead. The teams stayed close throughout the third quarter. Melissaratos knotted things up at 50 at the end of the frame. The teams went neck and neck throughout the final quarter. Agravanis put the visitors in charge 60:59 with under two minutes to go. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) and Jean-Charles Livio (204-F/C-93) replied with five points as France grabbed a 64:60 lead. Lefteris Bohoridis (191-G-94) knocked down a jumper to pull Greece closer but the visitors ran out of time and could not save the game. Mouhammadou Jaiteh accounted for 14 points and 17 rebounds for France. Jean-Charles Livio added 11 points in the victory. Kyprianos responded with 11 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis (200-F-94) and Lefteris Bohoridis nailed 10 points each in the losing effort.

France U18: Hugo Invernizzi 15, Mouhammadou Jaiteh 14+17 boards, Jean-Charles Livio 11
Greece U18: Maragkos Kyprianos 11, Giannoulis Larentzakis 10, Lefteris Bohoridis 10


*****************************************************
  HOLLAND   


Lasaulec Aris extends Andrew Dawson - by Fred Roggen
Lasaulec Aris extends Andrew Dawson (190-F-87, agency: R.H.Consultancy). Lasaulec Aris has announced that pointguard Andrew Dawson will be back in the team for the upcoming 2011-12 season.
Dawson joined Lasaulec Aris in December 2009, the deal is for one season.
Andrew Dawson averaged 2.3 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 36 Dutch Basketball League games last season.


PromotieDivisie News: A Slow Summer... - by Terry Cooper
As the summer is in full swing, most teams and players are enjoying the summer months away from the game and focusing more on what the warm days of summer have to bring. Although there has not been any official word on what teams will be participating in the 2011-12 PromotieDivisie season, Some teams may have to opportunity to get a second chance to play if some of the Eerst Divisie teams decide not to promote. Due to the econonmy and sponsors holding on tight to their funds may prevent some teams from having the money needed. As time progress through the summer months, I will keep all of you posted on what goes on with the league. Enjoy the great summer and stay tuned.

*****************************************************
  HUNGARY   


Adam Hanga got drafted by the San Antonio Spurs - by Tamas Deri
It was one of the longest night in his life but probably also the most important. Adam Hanga (201-G-89, agency: TSS Management) is the first hungarian player got ever drafted by any NBA teams. The 201 cm tall all-around guard just signed his contract with Manresa in the ACB and attended the ADIDAS Eurocamp in Italy, which was the the pre-draft for the best european young players. Several teams showed interest in him and his agent, Andras Lorant hoped that his client will get a draft pick.
- We are very happy, that the San Antonio Spurs picked up Adam in the 2nd round (59th pick) but don't know exactly yet, what will happen. We focus on the ACB first as Adam should get some more experiences on a higher level and hope, that he will be on the court once in the NBA! - said us the agent.

MJUS-Fortress Kormend: three players signed, Nemeth agreed mutual - by Tamas Deri


MJUS-Fortress Kormend: three players signed, Nemeth agreed mutual - by Tamas Deri
The management of MJUS-Fortress Kormend is very active on the transfer markt as they published that the new players arrive to Kormend. Hungarian big man Georgy Cseh (208-F-87) signed for one season with the club. The 208 cm tall, 24 years old forward spent the last season in Kecskemet where he averaged 3.3 points and 1.7 rebounds in 11 minutes on the court.
One other hungarian young prospect, Peter Csapai (204-F-93, agency: TSS Management) signed a two-years deal with the club. The 204 cm tall, 18 years old forward spent the last 7 months in Spain.
Even one more young hungarian player, Bela Sonyak (195-G/F-89, agency: TSS Management) decided to stay in Kormend and signed for one more season with the club.
The owner of the club, Mr. Zsolt Szabo-Forrai gave also an interview on the website of the club and informed the fans, that former Euroleague player Istvan Nemeth (190-G-79, agency: Interperformances) agreed with him mutual for the coming season and will sign his conract for the coming season after he gets home from his holiday.

*****************************************************
  INDONESIA   


Indonesian National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Andi Poedjakesuma
Poedjakesuma
Amin Prihantono
Prihantono
Faisal Julius Ahmad
Ahmad
Mario Wuysang
Wuysang
Rony Gunawan
Gunawan
#e#5
4 Dimas Aryo Dewanto F Bima Sakti Indonesia
5 Andi Poedjakesuma 187-F-80 ASPAC Indonesia
6 Xaverius Prawiro 181-G/F-86 ASPAC Indonesia
7 Amin Prihantono 188-F-82 Satria Muda Indonesia
8 Faisal Julius Ahmad 180-G-81 Satria Muda Indonesia
9 Romy Christanto Chandra 189-F-73 ASPAC Indonesia
10 Mario Wuysang 177-G-79 Satria Muda Indonesia
11 Isman Muhammad Thoyib 203-C-84 ASPAC Indonesia
12 Ponsianus Nyoman Indrawan 190-C-85
13 Rony Gunawan 193-F/C-80 Satria Muda Indonesia
14 Welyanson Situmorang 189-F-82 Satria Muda Indonesia
15 Christian Ronaldo Setepu 198-F/C-86 Satria Muda Indonesia



Indonesia draw first blood in Jakarta - by Eurobasket News
Indonesia - Singapore 71:60

Indonesia celebrated the first win at 9th SEABA Championship held in Jakarta. The hosts overcame Singapore to improve at 1-0 record. Ponsianus Indrawan (190-C-85) stepped up with 12 points and 10 rebounds to pace the hosts. Indonesia used a killer 23:6 run in the fourth term to celebrate victory at the end.
Indonesia opened the game with 7:0 run and led throughout the starting period. The home team posted a 16:14 lead ten minutes into the game. However Steve Khoo and Folkoff helped Singapore take a 27:24 lead midway through the second term. Singapore kept in charge as they registered a 34:31 lead at halftime. Folkoff made it 45:37 for Singapore midway through the third quarter. The visitors arrived at the final break up by six points 54:48. But Indonesia did not say die. They went on an 18:2 run at the start of the fourth frame to clear off for good in this one. Rony Gunawan (193-F/C-80) knocked down 10 points, while Xaverius Prawiro (181-G/F-86), Andi Poedjakesuma (187-F-80) and Amin Prihantono (188-F-82) added 9 points each in the victory. Pathman Matialakan (198-C-80) and Wong Wei Long (172-G-88) responded with 11 points apiece for Singapore. Oh Wei Jie Desmond (176-F-86) netted 10 points in the loss.

Indonesia: Ponsianus Indrawan 12+10 boards, Rony Gunawan 10, Xaverius Prawiro 9, Andi Poedjakesuma 9, Amin Prihantono 9
Singapore: Pathman Matialakan 11, Wong Wei Long 11, Oh Wei Jie Desmond 10


*****************************************************
  IRAN   


Iranian National Team 2011 - by Greg
Iranian National Team 2011 for WABA Championships
#s#
Samad Nikkhah
Nikkhah
Hamed Sohrabnejad
Sohrabnejad
Mahdi Kamrani
Kamrani
Reza Lotfi
Lotfi
Rouzbeh Arghavan
Arghavan
#e#5
Samad Nikkhah 198-G/F-83 Mahram Iran
Hamed Sohrabnejad 206-C/F-83 Petrochimi Iran
Mahdi Kamrani 181-G-82 Mahram Iran
Reza Lotfi 197-G/F-83 Azad Iran
Rouzbeh Arghavan 214-F/C-88 Azad Iran
Jaber Rouzbahani 227-C-86 Mahram Iran
Saman Veisi 191-G-82 Petrochimi Iran
Aren Davoudichegani 181-G-86 Mahram Iran
Javad Davari 185-G-83 Mahram Iran
Oshin Sahakian 201-F-86 Mahram Iran
Hamed Afagh 190-G-83 Mahram Iran
Asghar Kardoost 212-C-86 Mahram Iran



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


Jan Martin joins Galil Gilboa - by Eurobasket News
Galil Gilboa have ensured the services of Jan Martin (203-F/C-84, agency: Court Side) for the next season. The 26-year-old centre spent the last season with Maccabi Ashdod. The Spanish player tallied 6.4 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. Jan Martin played for U18 and U20 Spanish National Teams.


Brener signs with HBK, Roth close to Netanya - by David Pick
In a short negotiation of 48 hours, the former Israeli national league champions and new Israeli premier league contender, Maccabi Habikaa, made both an important and impressive move today signing 30 year-old point guard Shmuel Brener, to a one year contract.

Brener played the last two years for Elitzur Netanya and finished a superb personal season averaging 5.8 points, 4 rebounds and 6.3 assist per game. Brener also had a stellar 'quarterback' year being named Israeli assists champion of the league recording a career high in his final game of the season dishing out 13 dimes, not an easy task as Netanya finished last season as one of the three worst teams in assist ratio.

A source recently informed 'Eurobasket' that the move that prompted Brener's leave from the black-and-yellow team was because new head coach Danny Franco made it his premier quest to sign one of Israel's top point guards Moran Roth, whom Franco recently coached while in Holon.

Franco made it clear to the team's management that Roth is a valuable key player to the team and is expected to have the same salary package as he did in Holon valued at $110,000 per season. In edition Franco added sharp shooter Yehu Orland (193-G-81) to his player roster as the two pair up for a third time.

Two more players who are targeted by Franco and Netanya are forward/center Nir Cohen and American guard Brian Asbury. The Israeli big man who averaged 7.4 points and 6.1 rebounds per game will begin his sixth professional season and is also wanted by Habikaa and several other Division One teams as the player's representatives are expected to meet with the these teams to discuss Cohen's next move.

Asbury who played last season in the national league for Hapoel Tel Aviv, led the team to first place entering the playoffs as he recorded outstanding numbers of 27 points, 7 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.4 steals.



Devin Smith officially signs with Maccabi Tel Aviv - by David Pick
After signing American center Shawn James earlier this summer, former Duke and D-League standout guard Jon Scheyer and Israeli point guard Yotam Halperin this week, Maccabi Tel-Aviv today finessed another meaningful edition to their roster as the team officially announced the signing of small forward Devin Smith to a two year contract.

As 'Eurobasket' exclusively reported earlier this week about the negotiations between the yellow-and-blue team and the Benetton TV standout, as a source confirmed the negotiations to be 'A done deal'.

Smith who earned $250,000 while in Benetton TV, already was a candidate for Maccabi in 2008 and will earn between $350,000-400,000 per season and is expected to fill the role that former American guard Chuck Eidson left behind.

The former Virginia native played in Greece, Turkey, Spain and Italy. And is known mostly for playing the small forward position but is very versatile and can even play the 4 position if needed, due to the fact that he has a strong upper body and played most of his high school basketball in the post.

Last season in the Italian league Smith posted averages of 13.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.5 steals per game. In the Eurocup competition the Virginia graduate slightly improved his numbers by recording 15.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.8 steals per game.

Smith's superb season hasn't gone unnoticed as he was granted awards such as the Eurobasket.com All-Eurocup 1st Team, All-Imports Team, and Eurocup Forward of The Year and Eurocup Import Player of The Year. The American talent spent last season in Greece playing for Olympiakos then shortly after moving to Panellinios where he recorded 13.5 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game.

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


Fastweb Casale clinch LegaDue title - by Eurobasket News
Fastweb Casale - Umana Reyer 90:86

Fastweb Casale are LegaDue champions. They prevailed against Umana Reyer in the decisive fifth game of the championship series. Matteo Malaventura (196-G-78) stepped up with 22 points to pace the winners.
Fastweb Casale and Umana Reyer stayed close throughout the opening frame. The hosts eked out a 21:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Umana Reyer bounced back in the second term. The visitors pulled in front to ensure a 35:32 halftime lead. But things changed after the big break. Fastweb Casale took over as Ricky Hickman (190-G-85, college: NC-Greensboro) and Matteo Malaventura helped the home side to a 60:52 lead at the final break. Fastweb Casale stretched the lead to 13 points midway through the fourth quarter. But it was not over just yet. Umana Reyer went on a desperate rescue rally to trim the deficit at two points late in regulation. But Ricky Hickman, Donell Taylor (198-G-82, college: UAB) and Matteo Malaventura went deadly from the charity stripe in the dying seconds and sealed the victory for the hosts. Ricky Hickman accounted for 21 points, while Donell Taylor and Simone Pierich (198-F-81) added 12 points apiece for Fastweb Casale. Tamar Slay (204-F-80, college: Marshall) responded with 20 points for Umana Reyer. Marco Allegretti (204-F-81) netted 17 points in the loss.

Fastweb Casale: Matteo Malaventura 22, Ricky Hickman 21, Donell Taylor 12, Simone Pierich 12
Umana Reyer: Tamar Slay 20, Marco Allegretti 17


Trenkwalder split ways with Fabrizio Frates - by Eurobasket News
Trenkwalder and Fabrizio Frates have reached an agreement on terms of contract termination. Fabrizio Frates was hired by Reggio Emilia in December. Previously he worked with Montegranaro, Caserta, Bologna, Udine, Monte dei Paschi Siena, Cantu, Gorizia, Montecatini, Treviso and Cantu. Fabrizio Frates worked as assistant coach with Italian National Team in 2001/07 seasons. In 2005 the specialist guided Italian U20 National Team.


Stats Leaders - Lega2
Points Per Game
 Trent WHITING
  Aget Imola
  (185-G-76)
  Avg: 22.4
 1. Whiting, Aget Imola22.4 
 2. Robinson, Trenkwal.19.7 
 3. Crispin, Barcellona19.6 
 4. Gordon, Forli19.5 
 5. Ebi, Aget Imola19.2 
 6. Goldwire, Forli19.1 
 7. Jackson, Prima Ver.18.8 
 8. Clark, Umana Reyer18.0 
 9. Forte, Tuscany PT17.9 
 10. Marigney, Assigeco17.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ndudi EBI
  Aget Imola
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Ebi, Aget Imola9.2 
 2. Filloy, Immobili.9.1 
 3. Varnado, Tuscany8.9 
 4. Boykin, Assigeco8.1 
 5. Dickens, San Seve.8.0 
 6. Waleskowski, Tezen.7.9 
 7. Johnson, San Seve.7.8 
 8. Gordon, Forli7.8 
 9. Lollis, Immobili.7.6 
 10. Maggioli, Fileni7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Antonio PORTA
  Tezenis .
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Porta, Tezenis5.1 
 2. Crispin, Barcellona4.8 
 3. Goldwire, Forli4.5 
 4. Hickman, Fastw.4.0 
 5. Marigney, Assigeco3.8 
 6. Whiting, Aget Imola3.8 
 7. Farabello, N.Fer.3.7 
 8. Mathis, Snaidero.3.7 
 9. Nardi, Forli3.7 
 10. Forte, Tuscany PT3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Alessandro PIAZZA
  Immobili.
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 3
 1. Piazza, Immobili.3.0 
 2. Ebi, Aget Imola2.9 
 3. Roderick, Immobi.2.6 
 4. Davis, Sunrise2.6 
 5. Robinson, Trenkwal.2.6 
 6. Filloy, Immobili.2.5 
 7. Cerella, Assigeco2.4 
 8. Whiting, Aget Imola2.4 
 9. Hunter, Sunrise2.3 
 10. Achara, Barcellona2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Jarvis VARNADO
  Tuscany PT
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Varnado, Tuscany3.1 
 2. Ebi, Aget Imola1.4 
 3. Achara, Barcellona1.2 
 4. Maggioli, Fileni B.1.1 
 5. Cutolo, San Severo0.7 
 6. Boykin, Assigeco0.7 
 7. Frosini, Trenkwald.0.7 
 8. Taylor, Fastweb CM0.6 
 9. Brkic, Prima Veroli0.6 
 10. Chiacig, Sunris.0.6 


Virtus Bologna targets Angelo Gigli - by Eurobasket News
According to Sportando, Angelo Gigli (209-F/C-83) could join Virtus Bologna this summer. The Italian outfit shows a strong willingness to sign the 28-year-old PF/C. Gigli spent last three years with Lottomatica Roma. He appeared only twice for them in Euroleague last season registering 2 ppg. In SerieA, Gigli had 1.6 ppg and 2.2 rpg in 14 games.
Angelo Gigli joined Lottomatica in 2008 from Benetton Treviso. In the past, he also was a member of Reggio Emilia and Fortitudo Roma. Gigli played for the Italian National Team in Qualifications to European Championships 2011. He appeared 8 times for his country averaging 4.5 points and 3.6 rebounds. Gigli also played for Italy at the EuroBasket 2007 in Spain. He had 6 ppg and 6 rpg for 6 games at this event.

*****************************************************
  IVORY COAST   


Limoges CSP inks Frejus Zerbo - by Eurobasket News
Limoges CSP reinforced its squad under the basket. The French outfit landed Ivorian center Frejus Zerbo (206-C-89). The 22-year-old Zerbo heads to Limoges from Gravelines, where he spent last season. He played 24 games for them in ProA averaging 1.6 points and 1.4 rebounds. He also added 3.9 ppg and 4.4 rpg in 14 EuroChallenge games. Limoges reached Quarterfinals in this competition. Zerbo helped his team win the La Semaine des AS Cup this year. He played for Gravelines in 2009/10 as well.
Before Gravelines, Frejus Zerbo spent few years with Le Havre. In 2010, he participated at the Ivory Coast National Team camp.

*****************************************************
  KAZAKHSTAN   


Branko Cvetkovic lands in Astana - by Eurobasket News
BC Astana are working hard to improve their roster for the next season. The newly created team landed Branko Cvetkovic (200-G/F-84, agency: Beo Basket). The forward signed a deal with the Kazakh team. Last season Branko Cvetkovic spent in Ukraine. He averaged 11.9 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game for BC Donetsk in Superleague. Branko Cvetkovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Bosman Player of the Year. Previously the Serbian played for Scavolini, FMP Zeleznik, Panionios, CAI Zaragoza, Girona, Reflex Beograd, Borac Cacak and Spartak Subotica. Branko Cvetkovic was the member of Serbian National Team in 2007/08 seasons. He averaged 2.7 points and 1.5 rebounds per game in 2009 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. Branko Cvetkovic is the second newcomer in BC Astana as the Kazakh team landed Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Rider) several days ago.



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


Latvia U20 is with 1-2 record in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U20 is with 1-2 record in Istanbul at the friendly International Tournament. After the defeat from Turkey in Day 1, the Baltic side won and lost in Day 2 and 3.
In Day 2 Latvia U20 edged Czech Republic U20 71:67. Both squads nailed 18 points each in the opening frame, while the Baltic side needed 25-18 to take control in the game. Czech Republic responded with 16-12 in the third frame, whilst Latvia won the game due to 16-15 in the last quarter. Martins Meiers (206-C-91) poured in 25 points for the winners and Enrijs Ansons scored 13. Jaromir Bohacik (198-F-92) finished the game with 18 points, while Tomas Vyoral notched 17.
In Day 3 France U20 beat Latvia U20 75:68 Both teams nailed 17 points each in the first period and then France needed 22-15 to take 7-point halftime advantage. The Baltic side replied with 19-15 but could not come closer. France finished the game with 21-17 to remain undefeated. Evan Mehdi Fournier top-scored for the winners with 15 points, while Leo Westermann notched 14. Mareks Mejeris (207-F-91, agency: Players Group) and Janis Antrops scored 15 points each in defeat.



*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA   


Report: Cavaliers will take Jonas Valanciunas with fourth pick - by Eurobasket News
The Cleveland Cavaliers are targeting Lithuanian big man Jonas Valanciunas (6'11''-C-92) with the No. 4 overall pick in tonights NBA Draft, even if Kentucky's Enes Kanter is still on the board, ESPN.com reports.

With Kyrie Irving and Derrick Williams expected to go 1-2 to Cleveland and Minnesota, respectively, Utah is deciding between Kentucky PG Brandon Knight and Kanter, according to the report.

Valanciunas would be an interesting, if not risky, pick for the Cavs since the buyout situation with his European club is uncertain and he may not be able to play in the NBA next season. Valanciunas did tell Sporting News yesterday, however, that hes still hopeful that he can begin his NBA career in 2011.

The Cavaliers, meanwhile, are angling to land a third pick in the first round tonight, Yahoo! Sports Adrian Wojnarowski reports. Sources tell Wojnarowski that Cleveland is 'trying to get a 3rd first round pick - in the 20s - dangling its two second rounders (32 and 54) and maybe cash.'

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

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


Kevin Magdowski is the new head coach at Residence Walferdange - by Daniel Poerschke
German coach Kevin Magdowski is the new head coach at Luxemburg N1 club Residence Walferdange. The 33year old Berlin native will go into his fifth season as a professional coach in Luxemburg. After starting with Walferdange in 2007, Magdowski spend time with Avanti Mondorf, the U-16 national team and last season as the head youth coordinator at BBC Sparta Bertrange. Magdowski: 'I am happy to be back as the head coach of Residence Walferdange at the top level and we will make a strong push for a play-off spot this next season.'

*****************************************************
  MALAYSIA   


Malaysian National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Yeow Loong Ho
Ho
Wei Hong Choo
Choo
Batumalai Guganeswaran
Guganeswaran
Shee Fai Loh
Loh
Yeo Seng John Ng
John Ng
#e#5
4 Yeow Loong Ho 178-G-88 KL Dragons Malaysia
5 Er Kheng Lau 178-G-82 KL Dragons Malaysia
6 Chuan Chin Wee 180-G-84 KL Dragons Malaysia
7 Chun Khee Ong 170-G-90 Bintulu R. Malaysia
8 Wei Hong Choo 196-C-92
9 Batumalai Guganeswaran 180-G-83 KL Dragons Malaysia
10 Zhi Shin Chin 190-87 KL Dragons Malaysia
11 Shee Fai Loh 189-G-89 KL Dragons Malaysia
12 Tian Yuan Kuek 202-C-91 KL Dragons Malaysia
13 Yeo Seng John Ng 190-F-81 KL Dragons Malaysia
14 Satyaseelan Kuppusamy 183-G-78 KL Dragons Malaysia
15 Chee Li Wei 198-F/C-83 KL Dragons Malaysia



Philippines open SEABA Championship with win - by Eurobasket News
Philippines - Malaysia 97:71

Strong second half rally propelled Philippines to the opening win at the 9th SEABA Championship in Jakarta. They rallied past Malaysia in the opener. Joseph Evans Casio (177-PG-86) stepped up with 19 points to lead the winners.
Malaysia tipped off the game with a 9:0 run to set up the tone. They kept the Filipino team at bay before Tiu and Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) made it 20:20 entering the second term. Philippines pulled in front early in the second quarter but not for too long. Malaysia increased the tempo and cleared off to a 41:36 advantage at halftime. However Philippines returned from the dressing room a different team. They stiffened their defence and managed to take the lead late in the period. Joseph Evans Casio made it 63:57 for Philippines at the final break. The fourth quarter turned into a one-way traffic. Philippines finally adjusted their offence as they erupted for 34 points and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Japeth Aguilar (207-C-85, college: W.Kentucky) knocked down 18 points, while Marcus Douthit added 14 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Ho Yeow Loong (178-G-88) answered with 11 points for Malaysia. Batumalai Guganeswaran (180-G-83) and Yeo Seng Ng (188-F-81) had 10 points apiece in the loss.

Philippines: Joseph Evans Casio 19, Japeth Aguilar 18, Marcus Douthit 14+15 boards
Malaysia: Ho Yeow Loong 11, Batumalai Guganeswaran 10, Yeo Seng Ng 10


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


Chile takes the first win in Cancun, Mexico drops to 0-2 - by Eurobasket News
CHILE - MEXICO 80-54

Chile registered first win in Cancun. They cruised past Mexico 80-54 for 1-1 record in Group A. On other side, Mexico faced with their second loss at the U16 FIBA Americas championship. Eugenio Luzcando (95) stepped up for the winners with 15 points. Ricardo Cardenas (95) had 14 points and 5 rebs, while Martin Pino (95) added 11 points and 5 assists. For the hosts, Omar De Haro (95) netted 16 points and David Elias (95) stopped to 10. Chile had wonderful beginning as they made 32-12 lead in just ten minutes. It was also the crucial period in this game and Mexico never recovered. Quarters: 32-12, 15-13, 11-17, 22-12.
In the last game of the Preliminary Round, Chile will meet Puerto Rico. Mexico will take on Canada.

Chile: Eugenio Luzcando 15, Ricardo Cardenas 14+5 boards, Martin Pino 11+5 as
Mexico: Omar De Haro 16, David Elias 10

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


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

*****************************************************
  NBA   


Hawks try to deal Josh Smith for Wolves No. 2 pick - by Eurobasket News
In a lust to draft center Enes Kanter (6'9''-C-92), the Atlanta Hawks are trying to engage the Minnesota Timberwolves in discussions to trade Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85) for the No. 2 pick in Thursdays NBA draft, sources told Yahoo! Sports.

So far, the Wolves havent been forthcoming on a potential deal, but sources say Atlanta was still trying to discuss a deal in the hours leading up to the draft.

The Wolves have privately committed to drafting Arizona forward Derrick Williams with the second pick, but the Hawks want to sell Minnesota on Smith as an open-court finisher to play along with rookie point guard Ricky Rubio.

Hawks GM Rick Sund has been hugely interested in Kanter throughout the pre-draft process, sources said, and has clearly been looking to find a deal for Smith. Under the salary cap, the Wolves could absorb the $13 million-plus owed him next season without sending back corresponding contracts.

Several teams trying to trade up into the high lottery of the draft believe Utah holds the key at No. 3, and Utah has left several teams believing that they will draft Kanter over point guard Brandon Knight unless they trade out of the spot.

Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports

Cavaliers, Bobcats trade rumors: Trade No 4 pick, still get Jonas Valanciunas - by Eurobasket News
The Cleveland Cavaliers are rumored to covet get Lithuanian center Jonas Valanciunas (6'11''-C-92) as the top big man in the draft besides Arizona's Derrick Williams (6'8''-F).

The Cavaliers have the number 1 and 4 overall picks in the draft, with many draft experts and NBA insiders saying that they will draft Duke guard Kyrie Irving with the first overall pick.

Though the Cavaliers would love to get Arizona power forward Derrick Williams, he will likely be gone by the number 4 pick.

Several mock drafts have the Cavaliers taking Enes Kanter with the number 4 pick.

However, sources with Yahoo Sports say that the Cavaliers would like to trade the Number 4 pick and still get Jonas Valanciunas somehow.

Although Valanciunas has all the talent in the world, he has slipped in several mock drafts due to the status of his contract buyout with his team the Lietuvos Rytas. It's possible that Valanciunas will not be able to play next year, dropping him from consideration of several teams who need immediate help.

However, the Cavaliers are not one of those teams and would be willing to wait a year for the center, since Cleveland is still in the process of rebuilding after losing LeBron James last year to free agency.

Yahoo details a complicated trade between the Cavaliers and the Charlotte Bobcats, who own the number 9 and 19 picks and covet Texas freshman Tristan Thompson.

Michael Jordan, the Bobcats owner, believes that Thompson will go to the Detroit Pistons at number 8, so the Bobcats need to trade up to get him.

In the proposed trade, the Cavaliers would draft Thompson at number 4, and the slipping Valanciunas would get drafted by the Bobcats at number 9.

The teams would then trade the two big men with the Cavaliers receiving the Bobcats number 19 pick in return.

Although an intriguing idea, this trade rumor is not likely to pan out. The Cavaliers would not take the risk of a pre-emptive drafting of Thompson at number 4, unless they could get assurance from the other four teams between picks 4 and 9 that they won't draft Valanciunas.

In particular, the Pistons at number 8 also need a big man and may be willing to take the risk of Valanciunas needing one year and draft the center anyways.

Still, this trade rumor is one to watch during tonight's draft.

Courtesy of http://sanfrancisco.ibtimes.com

Bucks, Bobcats, Kings complete 3-team deal - by Eurobasket News
The Charlotte Bobcats, Milwaukee Bucks and Sacramento Kings have agreed in principle to a three-team deal:

- The Bobcats acquire forward Corey Maggette (6'6''-G-79, college: Duke) and the Kings' seventh overall draft pick.

- The Bucks acquire point guard Beno Udrih (6'5''-PG-82), guard Stephen Jackson (6'8''-F-78, college: Butler Co.CC), point guard Shaun Livingston (6'7''-G-85) and the Bobcats' 19th overall draft pick.

- The Kings acquire guard John Salmons (6'7''-F-79, college: Miami, FL) and the Bucks' 10th overall draft pick.

The Bobcats walk away with the seventh overall draft pick in tonight's draft courtesy the Sacramento Kings, as well as dropping Stephen Jackson's contract, who was owed roughly $20 million over the next two seasons. The Bobcats also added Maggette, who averaged 12 points per game for the Bucks this past season.

The Bucks land Udrih, who posted a career-high 13.8 points per game this season, as well as Jackson who averaged 18.5 points per game. The Bucks will also get Livingston, who will join his 6th NBA team since entering the league in 2004.

Finally the Kings, who gave up their first round pick (seventh overall), acquire the Bucks' 10th overall pick and land guard John Salmons who signed a 5-year, $39 million deal in 2010.

Courtesy of www.thescore.com

Report: Cavaliers will take Jonas Valanciunas with fourth pick - by Eurobasket News
The Cleveland Cavaliers are targeting Lithuanian big man Jonas Valanciunas (6'11''-C-92) with the No. 4 overall pick in tonights NBA Draft, even if Kentucky's Enes Kanter is still on the board, ESPN.com reports.

With Kyrie Irving and Derrick Williams expected to go 1-2 to Cleveland and Minnesota, respectively, Utah is deciding between Kentucky PG Brandon Knight and Kanter, according to the report.

Valanciunas would be an interesting, if not risky, pick for the Cavs since the buyout situation with his European club is uncertain and he may not be able to play in the NBA next season. Valanciunas did tell Sporting News yesterday, however, that hes still hopeful that he can begin his NBA career in 2011.

The Cavaliers, meanwhile, are angling to land a third pick in the first round tonight, Yahoo! Sports Adrian Wojnarowski reports. Sources tell Wojnarowski that Cleveland is 'trying to get a 3rd first round pick - in the 20s - dangling its two second rounders (32 and 54) and maybe cash.'

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

2011 NBA Draft: Kyrie Irving, Derrick Williams hold court on eve of turning professional - by Milord Nikolic
After an hour of interviews and seemingly endless questions about the draft order, post-draft plans and the possibility of a lockout, Duke point guard Kyrie Irving and Arizona forward Derrick Williams got back to where they're most comfortable -- the basketball court. Irving and Williams, players the Cavaliers are thought to be considering with the No. 1 pick in today's NBA Draft, led a contingent of draft hopefuls onto the courts at John Jay College for a clinic with 60 Special Olympians as part of the NBA Cares Community Caravan. Both players were asked about the difficulty of going to Cleveland after the stormy departure of LeBron James last summer. They insist they're not going to replace James, the Cavs' most recent No. 1 overall pick.

Kyrie Irving goes No. 1 in NBA Draft - by Eurobasket
Kyrie Irving (6'2''-G-92) traveled just a few miles down the road to become the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft.
The players that followed him came from across the globe.
The Cleveland Cavaliers selected Irving with the No. 1 pick in a draft filled with internationals, confident his foot is healthy enough to lead the rebuilding effort that follows LeBron James' (notes) departure.
Loudly cheered by family and friends not far from where he starred at St. Patrick's High School in Elizabeth, Irving showed no signs of the toe injury on his right foot that limited him to 11 games last season as he walked up the stairs to shake hands with Commissioner David Stern.
'I didn't have any doubts about going to No. 1. I was looking to the organization to pick who they felt was the right choice,' Irving said. 'But now to this moment, from being a fan of the NBA draft and now being drafted, it's a special feeling in my heart and knowing that my friends and family were together, it's a memory I'm going to remember for the rest of my life.'
Three of the first six players taken were from Europe, capitalizing on the absence of some American college players who might have gone in their spots and made this a stronger draft. It was the first time four international players who didn't play at a U.S. college were selected in the lottery.
Even Irving has international ties. He was born in Australia while his father, Drederick, played professionally there and said he might be interested in playing for the Australian national team.

Courtesy of Yahoo

NBA Draft 2011:

1st ROUND
1. Cleveland C. Kyrie Irving (6'2''-G-92) Duke
2. Monnesota T. Derrick Williams (6'8''-F-91) Arizona
3. Utah Jazz Enes Kanter (6'9''-C-92) Kentucky
4. Cleveland C. Tristan Thompson (6'8''-F-91) Texas
5. Toronto R. Jonas Valanciunas (6'11''-C-92) Lietuvos rytas (LTU)
6. Washington W. Jan Vesely (6'11''-F-90) Partizan (SRB)
7. Sacramento K. Bismack Biyombo (6'10''-C-92) DR Congolese Fuenlabrada (ESP)
8. Detroit P. Brandon Knight (6'3''-G-91) Kentucky
9. Charlotte B. Kemba Walker (6'1''-PG-90) Connecticut
10. Milwaukee B. Jimmer Fredette (6'2''-G-89) BYU
11. Golden St. W. Klay Thompson (6'6''-G-90) Washington St.
12. Utah J. Alec Burks (6'6''-G-91) Colorado
13. Phoenix S. Markieff Morris (6'9''-F-89) Kansas
14. Houston R. Marcus Morris (6'8''-F-89) Kansas
15. Indiana P. Kawhi Leonard (6'7''-F-91) San Diego St.
16. Philadelphia 76 Nikola Vucevic (6'10''-F-90) S.California
17. New York K. Iman Shumpert (6'5''-G-90) Georgia Tech
18. Washington W. Chris Singleton (6'9''-F-89) Florida St.
19. Charlotte B. Tobias Harris (6'8''-F-92) Tennessee
20. Minnesota T. Donatas Motiejunas (7'0''-C-90) Benetton (ITA)
21. Portland TB Nolan Smith (6'2''-G-88) Duke
22. Denver N. Kenneth Faried (6'8''-F/C-89) Morehead St.
23. Houston R. Nikola Mirotic (6'10''-F/C-91) Real Madrid (ESP)
24. Oklahoma City T. Reggie Jackson (6'3''-G-91) Boston Coll.
25. Boston C. Marshon Brooks (6'5''-G/F-89) Providence
26. Dallas M. Jordan Hamilton (6'7''-G/F-90) Texas
27. New Jersey N. JaJuan Johnson (6'10''-F/C-89) Purdue
28. Chicago B. Norris Cole (6'2''-G-88) Cleveland St.
29. San Antonio S. Cory Joseph (6'3''-G-91) Texas
30. Chicago B. Jimmy Butler (6'7''-G/F-89) Marquette

2nd ROUND
31. Miami H. Bojan Bogdanovic (6'8''-G/F-89) Bosnia and Herzegovina Croatian Cibona (CRO)
32. Cleveland C. Justin Harper (6'10''-F-89) Richmond
33. Detroit P. Kyle Singler (6'8''-F-88) Duke
34. Washington W. Shelvin Mack (6'3''-G-90) Butler
35. Sacramento K. Tyler Honeycutt (6'8''-F-90) UCLA
36. New Jersey N. Jordan Williams (6'10''-F-90) Maryland
37. LA Clippers Trey Thompkins (6'9''-F-90) Georgia
38. Houston R. Chandler Parsons (6'9''-F-88) Florida
39. Charlotte B. Jeremy Tyler (6'10''-F-91) Tokyo Apache (JPN)
40. Milwaukee B. Jon Leuer (6'10''-F-89) Wisconsin
41. LA Lakers Darius Morris (6'4''-G-91) Michigan
42. Indiana P. Davis Bertans (6'7''-F-92) Union Olimpija (SLO)
43. Chicago B. Malcolm Lee (6'4''-G-90) UCLA
44. Golden St. W. Charles Jenkins (6'3''-G-89) Hofstra
45. New Orleans H. Josh Harrellson (6'10''-F-89) Kentucky
46. LA Lakers Andrew Goudelock (6'2''-G-88) Charleston
47. LA Clippers Travis Leslie (6'4''-G-90) Georgia
48. Atlanta H. Keith Benson (6'11''-C-88) Oakland
49. Memphis G. Josh Selby (6'2''-G-91) Kansas
50. Philadelphia 76 Lavoy Allen (6'9''-F-89) Temple
51. Portland TB Jon Diebler (6'6''-G-88) Ohio St.
52. Detroit P. Vernon Macklin (6'10''-F/C-86) Florida
53. Orlando M. Deandre Liggins (6'6''-G-88) Kentucky
54. Cleveland C. Milan Macvan (6'9''-C-89) Maccabi T-A (ISR)
55. Boston C. E'Twaun Moore (6'4''-G-89) Purdue
56. LA Lakers Chukwudiebere Maduabum (6'9''-F-91) Bakersfield J. (D-Leag)
57. Dallas M. Targuy Ngombo (6'6''-F-89) Congolese Qatari Al Rayyan (QAT)
58. LA Lakers Ater Majok (6'10''-F-87) Gold Coast Blaze (AUS)
59. San Antonio S. Adam Hanga (6'7''-G-89) Albacomp (HUN)
60. Sacramento K. Isaiah Thomas (5'8''-PG-89) Washington


New York Knicks: 2011 Draft Recap - by Daniel Gibson
NEWARK, NJ---With the 17th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft the New York Knicks chose a player with a mindset that is the opposite of nearly their entire roster.

Iman Shumpert (6'5''-G-90), 6-6 guard from Georgia Tech, is a defensive minded player that has the physical tools to be a great defender. He averaged 2.87 steals per game at Georgia Tech which ranked eighth in the nation.

With Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse), Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82), and Chauncey Billups (6'3''-PG-76, college: Colorado) taking the bulk of the shots on offense a player like Shumpert will be able to grow, focus on defense, and play right away similarly to how Landry Fields did last season.

While the defense was a major selling point for the Knicks, Shumpert surprised some with his offensive game. He was known as an athlete coming into to pre-draft workouts with the ability to finish well on the break but his jump shot wasn't believed to be NBA ready.

Shumpert showed that he has been working on it.

I shot it real well. I impressed everybody. They all said I couldn't shoot, and I shot it well, said Shumpert. He estimated that he made 17 or 18 of 25 NBA-range 3-point shots during shooting drills.

In addition to adding a defensive minded athletic wing player, the Knicks also addressed their size issue.

Josh Harrellson (6'10''-F-89), a 6-10 275 lb. center from Kentucky, was drafted by the New Orleans Hornets with the 45th pick in the 2nd round and traded to the Knicks.

Harrellson is a big body who rebounds the ball well, blocks shots, and can knock down jump shots. He fits into the Mike D'Antoni's system because he is able to stretch the floor.

Having him play the center position allows Stoudemire to play his natural position at power forward and keeps him from wearing down from battling bigger centers every night.

It also allows Ronny Turiaf (6'10''-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) to come in off the bench and play his aggressive, energetic style of ball in spurts and will keep him from playing big minutes every game which can help him avoid injuries.

The Knicks will continue to look to add pieces via free agency and possibly a trade but they were able to pick up two quality players that will affect the entire team.

Donnie Walsh's tenure as president is over next week but he has done a masterful job with the Knicks during his time in New York.

He got rid of multiple, terrible contracts and brought in two all-stars, a great leader in Billups, and a number of talented players.

Walsh has done the Knicks one final favor by conducting yet another successful draft.

Suns make Brooks offer, adjust Carter deadline - by Eurobasket News
The Phoenix Suns have made a qualifying offer to restricted free agent Aaron Brooks (6'0''-PG-85, college: Oregon) and modified the date that Vince Carter's (6'5''-G-77, college: N.Carolina) contract becomes fully guaranteed.

Brooks was acquired as a backup to point guard Steve Nash in a trade deadline deal that sent Goran Dragic to the Houston Rockets. Terms of the offer weren't disclosed,

The Suns and Carter agreed to put off the deadline for making his contract guaranteed to the start of the free agency period. The deadline had been June 30, but the move puts off that decision until the uncertainty of the NBA labor situation is resolved.

Carter, part of a blockbuster trade with Orlando, is due to make $18.9 million in the coming season but the contract can be bought out for $4 million.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Report: Sixers have talked Iguodala trade with Lakers - by Eurobasket News
Another day, another Andre Iguodala (6'6''-G-84, college: Arizona) trade rumor. Only this is an important day - its draft day. And according to Sports Illustrated, it could be the last day for Iguodala as a member of the Sixers.

The magazine reports that the Sixers have talked about a Iguodala-for-Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) deal with the Los Angeles Lakers that would see the West Coast team send another player to the Sixers for salary cap reasons. Odom is set to make $8.9 million next season, the last of his deal. Iguodala, on the other hand, is due $13.5 million next season and $44 million over the next three seasons. Sources suggested to SI that Ron Artest could be that extra man.

Alternatively, the report mentions a rival general manager who said that Iguodala is also a definitely real possibility to be moved to Minnesota in return for a package that would include the No. 2 overall pick.

Iguodala has been the subject of many trade rumors over the past couple weeks, but obviously no move has come. It is unclear what, if any, effect the ongoing sale negotiations of the team has on a potential trade.

Courtesy of http://phillysportsdaily.com

Lakers' Barnes exercises option - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Lakers announced Wednesday that forward Matt Barnes (6'7''-F-80, college: UCLA) exercised his contract option for the 2011-12 season.

Barnes averaged 6.7 points and 4.3 rebounds in 53 games last season, his first with the Lakers.

In 497 career games, the California native has averaged 7.2 points and 4.4 rebounds.

Courtesy of www.kansascity.com

Ronny Turiaf exercises his player option to return to the New York Knicks - by Eurobasket News
28-year old PF/C Ronny Turiaf (6'10''-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) has exercised his player option to return to the New York Knicks in 2011-12 worth $4.36 million bucks. Turiaf arrived to NY last summer from the Golden State Warriors. He played 68 NBA games this season registering 4.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.4 apg. With the Warriors in 2009/10, Turiaf had 4.9 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 2.1 apg in 42 games. He also played three years for the Los Angeles Lakers in the past. Turiaf moved to LA in 2005 from the University of Gonzaga. Lakers selected him as 37th overall pick (second round). In France, Turiaf played for INSEP.
Ronny Turiaf played for Team France at the EuroBasket 2009 in Poland. He had 7.1 ppg and 5.7 rpg in 9 games at this event. He also played for his country at EuroBasket 2009 and 2007, as well as on the World Championship 2006 in Japan.

Report: Minnesota Timberwolves to fire Head Coach Kurt Rambis - by Eurobasket News
Most Celtics fans remember Kurt Rambis being closelined by the C's Kevin McHale during the 1984 NBA Finals. Rambis took his grittiness to the bench following his playing days, becoming the head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2009. Two seasons later, though, Rambis is on his way out.

The T-Wolves have decided to fire Rambis after two disappointing seasons, according to Yahoo Sports. The official announcement will not be made until after the NBA draft on Thursday.

General Manager David Kahn has had a shaky relationship with Rambis in the past, and after the two met last week, Kahn believed their relationship had reached an 'impasse.'

The two reportedly had little communication throughout last season, and Kahn's requests for changes in strategy and management style went unanswered. Rambis also reportedly saw many of his relationships with players, especially All-Star Kevin Love, deteriorate.

Rambis signed a four-year contract in 2009 and led his team to a league-worst 32-132 record in his two seasons.

Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Minnesota has already begun gathering information on University of Washington head coach Lorenzo Romar.

The Timberwolves have been in the news for the entire week. Ricky Rubio, the star point guard from Spain who was drafted two years ago, finally arrived to Minnesota to much fanfare. Meanwhile, the Wolves are reportedly interested in moving their first round draft pick (No. 2 overall).

Courtesy of www.nesn.com

Lakers tried to trade Lamar Odom for Minnesota's No. 2 pick - by Eurobasket News
Armed with only second-round draft picks in the NBA draft and an aging roster, the Lakers unsuccessfully tried to trade for the Minnesota Timberwolves' No. 2 overall pick in the first round.

The Lakers offered sixth man of the year Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) for Minnesota's No. 2 pick, according to two NBA officials who were not authorized to speak publically on the matter, but L.A. was turned down.

The Lakers wanted to use the second pick on Arizona's Derrick Williams, an athletic 6-foot-8, 248-pound forward, both officials said.

When the Odom deal was rebuffed by Minnesota, the Timberwolves then inquired about trying to acquire All-Star forward Pau Gasol or center Andrew Bynum from the Lakers, both officials said.

Because the Lakers were not interested in trading Gasol or Bynum, talks broke down between L.A. and Minnesota, and the teams stopped talking, an NBA official said.

Bynum was never an option to be traded because Jim Buss, son of Lakers owner Jerry Buss and the team's executive vice president of player personnel, has let it be known that the 7-foot center he had a hand in drafting in 2005 is not available.

The proposed deal sending Odom to the Timberwolves could have worked under the current NBA collective bargaining agreement because Minnesota is far enough under the salary cap to take on the 6-10 forward's contract without having to send another player to the Lakers.

Odom is guaranteed to make $8.9 million next season, but his 2012-13 salary is only partially guaranteed; Odom has a buy-out worth about $2 million.

It appears Odom has become the Lakers' hot commodity to move because of his contract, versatility and what he might be able to bring back to the team.

Odom, 31, has averaged 14.6 points, 8.9 rebounds and 4.0 assists over his 12-year career.

He averaged 14.4 points, 8.7 rebounds and 3.0 assists last season when he played in all 82 regular-season games, 35 as a starter.

The Lakers gave their 2011 first-round pick to New Jersey when they traded Sasha Vujacic to the Nets, making it the second consecutive year L.A. has not had a first-round pick.

If the Lakers don't make a move before the draft Thursday, they will have four second-round picks the No. 41 selection (received from the New York Knicks); 46 (from the Miami Heat); 56 and 58 (received from the Golden State Warriors via the Nets from the Vujacic trade).

The Lakers, who had 10 players on their roster 30 or older this past season, are in need of a point guard and an outside shooter though that probably will be difficult to find with second-round draft picks.

One possibility for the Lakers is Duke's Nolan Smith, a 6-2 guard who impressed the Lakers with his workout. But Smith might not be around when the Lakers make their pick.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

*****************************************************
  NCAA1   


U16 USA secures the first place in Group B - by Eurobasket News
USA - ARGENTINA 102-81

USA was too strong for Argentina 102-81 in Day Two of the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. It means that USA jumped to 2-0 in Group B and already booked a spot for the Semifinals. They also secured first place in this pool. Argentina dropped to 1-1 and still has a nice chance to reach the Semis. Jabari Parker (95) came up with 21 points and 7 rebounds in victory. Kendrick Nunn (96) followed him with 14 points and 7 boards, while Larry Austin Jr. (96) added 11 pts. In Argentina, Alvaro Merlo (5'7''-G-95) delivered 15 points. Rodrigo Haag (95) had 13 pts and 6 rebs, while Lucio Reinaudi (95) added 12 pts. Second quarter was the crucial one in this game (30-11). Argentina never recovered from it and USA had no troubles to keep the comfortable lead. Quarters: (22-23, 30-11, 22-17, 28-30.
In the last day of the Preliminary Round, USA will meet Costa Rica. Argentina will take on Brazil.

USA: Jabari Parker 21+7 boards, Kendrick Nunn 14+7 boards, Larry Austin Jr. 11
Argentina: Alvaro Merlo 15, Rodrigo Haag 13+6 boards, Lucio Reinaudi 12

Cincinnati's Mick Cronin more at ease now - by Milord Nikolic
Mick Cronin said he had overtures this offseason from two major-conference programs searching for a new coach, but he politely declined to pursue. He had rebuilding fatigue. He had a family structure that wouldn't be conducive to a move, with his divorce now two years out and a 4-year-old daughter in the middle of the marriage. And he had a commitment to Cincinnati, his hometown, his alma mater, and to a program that desperately needs stability. So he stayed. He stayed a year after it looked as if he could be forced out at Cincinnati if the Bearcats didn't make the NCAA tournament in his fifth year. Well, hot seat no more. He is now on firm ground. Cronin's teams did show some improvement over his first four seasons, going from 11 to 13 to 18 to 19 wins overall (2 to 8 to 8 to 7 in the Big East). On Tuesday, UC's board of trustees quietly approved a new contract for Cronin, who said he essentially has a new six-year contract that will take him through 2017 with an average pay of $1.5 million a year. The key point for him was there was also an increase in salary for his staff, as well as a bump for the basketball budget. The Bearcats will likely be a top-25 team to start the season with their top four scorers back in Yancy Gates, Dion Dixon, Sean Kilpatrick and point Cashmere Wright. But there's little doubt the Bearcats will be a major force in the Big East this season with UConn, Syracuse, Louisville and Pitt. And with Cronin secure for the foreseeable future, there is finally some stability in the Queen City. That never hurts.


Oklahoma hopes end of NCAA investigation is near - by Eurobasket News
Athletic director Joe Castiglione believes Oklahoma is getting closer to resolving the NCAA investigation into its men's basketball program.

Castiglione said after a board of regents meeting Wednesday that there are 'signs that we're moving toward resolution' and there 'probably will' be developments he can comment on later this summer.

The university has been tightlipped about the investigation since acknowledging in April 2010 that it was working jointly with the NCAA in the process. The school has refused to release any records pertaining to the investigation, instead withholding them until the process is finished.

Former player Keith 'Tiny' Gallon has said he took $3,000 from a Florida financial adviser so his high school would release his transcrips and he could play for the Sooners. Phone and e-mail records tied the adviser, Jeffrey Hausinger, to former Oklahoma assistant coach Oronde Taliaferro, who resigned following last season when the investigation was beginning.

'We're certainly hopeful to get it to a resolution soon,' Castiglione said. 'It just needs to be resolved. We've gathered every piece of information we could possibly gather and responded to every request, facilitated any and all interviews. We're just waiting for the next step.'

Oklahoma was on probation for major rules violations involving hundreds of impermissible recruiting phone calls by former coach Kelvin Sampson at the time the new investigation started.

Jeff Capel, who was the Sooners' coach when Gallon was recruited, was fired in March and replaced by Lon Kruger.

Courtesy of www.kansascity.com

Former Binghamton coach Broadus back at Georgetown - by Eurobasket News
Kevin Broadus is returning to the Georgetown basketball staff, landing a job as a ''special assistant'' after his tempestuous departure from Binghamton.

Hoyas coach John Thompson III says Broadus will serve as an aide but will not be on the road recruiting.

Broadus has his contract bought out by Binghamton for $1.2 million in October, a year after he was suspended by the school.

Broadus led the Bearcats to their first NCAA tournament berth in 2009, but one of his players was arrested on drug charges and five other players were dismissed for violations. An outside review found Broadus circumvented standards to get a player enrolled and lobbied for a player's grade to be changed.

Broadus was previously an assistant at Georgetown from 2004-07.

Courtesy of www.csnbaltimore.com

Joe Jones hired as basketball coach at Boston University - by Eurobasket News
Boston College assistant Joe Jones has been hired by Boston University to be its men's basketball coach.

The school announced Thursday that Jones would replace Patrick Chambers, who left early this month after two years to become head coach at Penn State. Boston reached the NCAA tournament this season where it lost in the second round to Kansas.

Jones was associate head coach at Boston College for one season after seven seasons as head coach at Columbia. The Lions won 16 games in 2006-07, their most since 1992-93.

His college coaching career began at Hofstra as an assistant from 1994-97. He was an assistant at Villanova from 1997-2003 before moving to Columbia. His brother, James, has been head coach at Yale the past 12 seasons.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

*****************************************************
  PHILIPPINES   


Thoughts on Day 1 of SEABA 2011 Championships - by Enzo Flojo
Philippines 97 - Casio 19, Aguilar 18, Douthit 14, Tiu 12, Barroca 9, Baracael 8, Lutz 8, Ababou 5, Ballesteros 4
Malaysia 71 - Ho 11,Batumalai 10, Ng 10, Loh 9, Chee 8, Wee 7, Kuek 5, Chin 4, Choo 3, Lau 2, Ong 2, Kuppusamy 0
QS: 20-20, 36-41, 63-57, 97-71
- Malaysians waxed hot from long range in the first half, hitting 8 of their 14 attempts from rainbow country.
- Pinoys started sluggishly and gave away too many possessions via turnovers.
- Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) had an impressive double-double: 14 points and 15 rebounds.
- Joseph Evans Casio (177-PG-86) engineered the pull-away in the 3rd quarter, scoring a5 of his 19 points there.
- Japeth Aguilar (207-C-85, college: W.Kentucky) cleaned it all up in the final period with 14 of his 18 points.
- The Philippines can afford these slow starts in the SEABA games, but they should check it before plunging in the FIBA-Asia tourney.

Indonesia 71 - Indrawan 12, Gunawan 10, Poedjakesuma 9, Prawiro 9, Prihantono 9, Faisal 7, Wuysang 7, Situmorang 4, Setepu 4, Dewanto 0, Chandra 0
Singapore 60 - Wong 11, Matialakin 11, Oh 10, Khoo 8, Folkoff 7, Koh M. 7, Lim 6, Fok 0, Ng 0, Wu 0, Koh K. 0, Goh 0
QS: 16-14, 31-34, 48-54, 71-60
- Indonesia looked outclassed for 3 periods, but they came alive in the final canto to thwart a game Singaporean side.
- The Indons capitalized on their steals to gain 29 more attempts at the basket, and consequently outscore the Singaporeans by 17 in the 4th quarter.
- Singapore was on its way to an upset of the hosts, but the Indon veterans mustered just enough grit to gain the upper hand.

Source: HoopNut.blogspot.com

Philippines open SEABA Championship with win - by Eurobasket News
Philippines - Malaysia 97:71

Strong second half rally propelled Philippines to the opening win at the 9th SEABA Championship in Jakarta. They rallied past Malaysia in the opener. Joseph Evans Casio (177-PG-86) stepped up with 19 points to lead the winners.
Malaysia tipped off the game with a 9:0 run to set up the tone. They kept the Filipino team at bay before Tiu and Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) made it 20:20 entering the second term. Philippines pulled in front early in the second quarter but not for too long. Malaysia increased the tempo and cleared off to a 41:36 advantage at halftime. However Philippines returned from the dressing room a different team. They stiffened their defence and managed to take the lead late in the period. Joseph Evans Casio made it 63:57 for Philippines at the final break. The fourth quarter turned into a one-way traffic. Philippines finally adjusted their offence as they erupted for 34 points and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Japeth Aguilar (207-C-85, college: W.Kentucky) knocked down 18 points, while Marcus Douthit added 14 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Ho Yeow Loong (178-G-88) answered with 11 points for Malaysia. Batumalai Guganeswaran (180-G-83) and Yeo Seng Ng (188-F-81) had 10 points apiece in the loss.

Philippines: Joseph Evans Casio 19, Japeth Aguilar 18, Marcus Douthit 14+15 boards
Malaysia: Ho Yeow Loong 11, Batumalai Guganeswaran 10, Yeo Seng Ng 10


Philippines National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Andy Mark Barroca
Barroca
Joseph Evans Casio
Casio
Christopher John Tiu
Tiu
Japeth Paul Aguilar
Aguilar
Marnel Baracael
Baracael
#e#5
4 Andy Mark Barroca 198-F/C-88 Smart Gilas Philippines
6 Joseph Evans Casio 177-PG-86 Smart Gilas Philippines
8 Christopher John Tiu 178-PG-85 Smart Gilas Philippines
9 Japeth Paul Aguilar 207-C-85 Smart Gilas Philippines
10 Marnel Baracael 193-F/G-85 Smart Gilas Philippines
11 Marcus Eugene Douthit 211-F/C-80 Smart Gilas Philippines
12 Jason Ballesteros 200-C-85 Smart Gilas Philippines
13 Marcio Tsongo Lassiter 188-G-87 Smart Gilas Philippines
14 Christopher Ryan Lutz 191-G-85 Smart Gilas Philippines
15 Dylan Simon Ababou 193-G/F-86 Smart Gilas Philippines



*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO   


Puerto Rico grabs 90-86 win against Canada, Cartagena 36 pts - by Eurobasket News
CANADA - PUERTO RICO 86-90

Puerto Rico jumped to 2-0 record in Cancun. They handed 90-86 loss to Canada staying on top of Group A. It was the first loss to Canada, who shares the second place with Chile now (1-1). Canada opened the game strongly making 28-18 lead. However, Puerto Rico replied with 13-22 in the second period. Miguel Cartagena (186-G-95) and his teammates continued in the same rhythm after the breather and they were 5-point up with 10:00 to go. In very exciting last quarter, Puerto Rico managed to keep their lead and to celebrate second straight win at the U16 FIBA Americas championship. Miguel Cartagena exploded in this game with 36 points. He made 5 triples and also 15 of 17 attempts from the line. Ariel Watson (95) had 17 points and 6 rebounds, while Eliel Gonzalez (189-G-95) added 14 points, 5 rebs and 8 assists. In Canada, Marial Shayok (95) (6 rebs) and Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G) (5 rebs, 5 as) netted 17 points each. Malcom Duvivier (95) followed them with 15 pts and 6 rebs.
In Day Three, Puerto Rico will meet Chile and it will most probably be the crucial game for the first place in Group A. Canada will play against Mexico.

Canada: Marial Shayok 17+6 boards, Kevin-Mbezela Zabo 17+5 boards+5 as, Malcom Duvivier 15+6 boards
Puerto Rico: Miguel Cartagena 36, Ariel Watson 17+6 boards, Eliel Gonzalez 14+5 boards+8 as

Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Peter John RAMOS
  Quebradillas
  (222-C-85)
  Avg: 23.4
 1. Ramos, Quebradillas23.4 
 2. Vassallo, Guaynabo23.0 
 3. Dalmau, Bayamon21.4 
 4. Johnson, Humacao21.3 
 5. Ayuso, Arecibo19.3 
 6. Villegas, Coamo19.3 
 7. Romero, Mayaguez18.6 
 8. Randolph, Isabela18.0 
 9. Harris, San German17.9 
 10. Clinch, Isabela16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mike HARRIS
  San German
  (198-F-83)
  Avg: 12.7
 1. Harris, San German12.7 
 2. Randolph, Isabela12.3 
 3. Narvaez, Coamo12.1 
 4. Pruitt, Guaynabo11.5 
 5. Ramos, Quebradillas10.8 
 6. Lloreda, San G.10.0 
 7. Romero, Mayaguez9.7 
 8. Sweetney, Santurce9.4 
 9. Clemente, Mayaguez9.2 
 10. Shannon, Bayamon9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Kevin HAMILTON
  Mayaguez
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Hamilton, Mayaguez7.5 
 2. Brown, Quebradillas5.9 
 3. Dalmau, Bayamon5.9 
 4. Rivera, San German5.0 
 5. Guzman, Guaynabo4.8 
 6. Clemente, Humacao4.6 
 7. Clinch, Isabela4.5 
 8. Apodaca, Quebradil.4.2 
 9. Rivera, Mayaguez4.2 
 10. Vega, Coamo4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Darnell HINSON
  Isabela
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Hinson, Isabela1.8 
 2. Rivera, Mayaguez1.6 
 3. Clinch, Isabela1.5 
 4. Diaz, Arecibo1.4 
 5. Hodge, Santurce1.4 
 6. Hamilton, Mayaguez1.3 
 7. Dalmau, Bayamon1.3 
 8. Carmona, Mayaguez1.3 
 9. Ayuso, Arecibo1.3 
 10. Santiago, Santur.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Kleon PENN
  Humacao
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Penn, Humacao2.7 
 2. Santiago, Arecibo2.1 
 3. Traylor, Bayamon2.0 
 4. Sanchez, Santurce2.0 
 5. Romero, Mayaguez1.9 
 6. Aubry, Arecibo1.8 
 7. Lee, Bayamon1.8 
 8. Harris, San German1.5 
 9. Randolph, Isabela1.4 
 10. Ramos, Quebradill.1.2 


*****************************************************
  RUSSIA   


Russia U19 and Croatia U19 play three friendlies - by Eurobasket News
Russia U19 and Croatia U19 play three friendlies with each other for the preparation at the U19 World Championship Draw to be held in Riga, Latvia.
At first Russia won over Croatia 95:90. It was one of the best games and remained the spectators alive until the every end. Russia made the final push to seal the victory in the opener. Vladislav Trushkin (200-F-93) stepped up with 24 points and Sergey Karasev (203-F-93) added 22. Mikhail Kulagin (188-G-94) ended up with 16 points in the winning effort. In the second game Russia celebrated 75;65 win as the teams paid more attention to defense. Vladislav Trushkin top-scored for the winners with 13 points and Mikhail Kulagin netted 10. In Game 3 Croatia took an easy 90:62 win.
The 10th Edition of the tournament will be held in Latvia from 30 June through 10 July 2011. Russia settled down in Group A with Tunisia, Brazil and Poland. Croatia will play in Group C with South Korea, Canada and Lithuania.
The best three teams from each group will advance into the next round and will make up two groups with six teams in each. Best four teams from the groups of the second stage will qualify into the quarterfinals. The USA team are the reigning champions as they defeated Greece in 2009 tournament Final.



Nenad Krstic to CSKA Moscow ! - by Eurobasket
It's official! The Captain of the National Team of Serbia Nenad Krstic (214-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) signed a two year-contract with CSKA Moscow, until the end of the 2012/2013 season. After 7 years in NBA - with New Jersey Nets, Oklahoma City Thunder and Boston Celtics, averaging 10.0 points, 5.4 rebounds in 25.2 minutes in 419 regular championship games, and 10.4 points, 5.4 rebounds in 25.2 minutes in playoff games - the center decided to come back to Europe to compete at the highest level to win the Euroleague. Born in Kraljevo on July 25th, 1983, at the age of 27 Nenad Krstic will lead the National Team of Serbia at the coming European Championship of Lithuania, then will join CSKA Moscow.

Khimky release Lazaros Papadopoulos - by Eurobasket News
Khimky have opted not to extend the contract of Lazaros Papadopoulos (210-C-80, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group). The centre joined Khimky in February. He averaged 4.2 points, 4.3 boards and 1.6 assists per game in PBL. In VTB-League Lazaros Papadopoulos tallied 6.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.0 assists per appearance. The centre started the season in Greece. Lazaros Papadopoulos played for PAOK Thessaloniki. His stats read 11.5 points, 7.5 boards and 2.2 assists in A1 League. In EuroCup the centre posted 16.0 points, 12.2 boards and 2.5 assists. Lazaros Papadopoulos was named All-Russian Superleague Centre of the Year twice in 2005 and 2007. He then played for Dynamo Moscow. In 2006 Eurobasket.com trumped Lazaros Papadopoulos All-ULEB Cup Centre of the Year.


Unics lands Alexey Savrasenko - by Eurobasket News
Just a day after he left Khimky, Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) already got a new job. The experienced Russian center signed a deal with Unics Kazan for season 2010/11. Unics was the EuroCup winner this year so they will compete in Euroleague next season.
Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) joined Khimky at the start of the previous season. He tallied 4.6 points and 3.2 rebounds per game in VTB-League. In Euroleague, Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) accounted for 4.2 points and 3.2 rebounds per appearance. In PBL, the centre notched 5.7 points and 3.4 rebounds. Previously the player had stints with Olympiakos, Peristeri, CSKA Moscow and Dynamo Moscow. Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) was named Eurobasket.com All-Russian Superleague Centre of the Year in 2006.
Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) played for the Russian National Team from 2001 to 2008. He helped them win the Gold at the EuroBasket 2007 in Spain. For 9 games at this event Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) had 6.4 ppg and 2.6 rpg.

Unics bring in Marcus Williams - by Eurobasket News
Unics continued to bolster their roster. After signing Alexey Savrasenko the Kazan team has agreed on terms of contract with Marcus Williams (191-G-85, college: Connecticut). The 25-year-old guard spent the previous season in Enisey. The guard tallied 12.0 points, 6.5 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round. In PBL Marcus Williams posted 15.3 points, 6.8 assists and 3.6 boards per appearance. The guard made it into Eurobasket.com Russian PBL All-Imports Team. Previously Marcus Williams played for the New Jersey Nets, Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA and Quebradillas Pirates in Puerto Rico. He was named Latinbasket.com All-Puerto Rican BSN Import Player of the Year in 2009. Marcus Williams made it into NBA All-Rookie 2nd Team in 2007. The guard played for USA U21 National Team.



Elmedin Kikanovic moves to Russia - by Eurobasket News
Elmedin Kikanovic (210-C-88, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Russia. The 22-year-old centre has reportedly agreed on terms of contract with Enisey. Last season Elmedin Kikanovic played for Crvena Zvezda. It was his third straight season in Belgrade. The centre tallied 8.5 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in EuroCup. In Adriatic League the Bosnian averaged 9.6 points and 2.7 rebounds. In Serbian League Elmedin Kikanovic recorded 8.8 points, 1.6 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. Eurobasket.com named the centre All-Serbian League Newcomer of the Year in 2008. Elmedin Kikanovic plays for Bosnian National Team since 2006. He also played U18 Bosnia and Herzegovina selection in 2005/06 seasons.


CSKA Moscow and Sani Becirovic part ways - by Eurobasket News
Sani Becirovic (195-G-81) is no longer a member of CSKA Moscow. The Russian powerhouse did not exercise option to keep the Slovenian guard. Becirovic joined CSKA in March from Turk Telekom Ankara. He appeared just twice in VTB United league. With Turk Telekom Becirovic had 16.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 2.3 apg for 6 games in EuroChallenge. He also added 13.9 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 2.7 apg for 20 games in TBL.

Andrey Vatutin, CSKA President:
'Sani took a difficult decision in March to change the club in the course of the season. We appreciate his professionalism, hard work, the desire to be an integral part of our team. He helped CSKA a lot in the end of the season, he starred in several games and lessened the load on our veteran leaders. His charisma, open character, sense of humor added a lot of positive energy into our team chemistry in difficult days for all of us. Wed like to thank Sani for his work which helped us to win just another championship title and we wish him all the best in his future career.' *

Sani Becirovic:
'Surely, I hoped that I will be needed by CSKA in future. I think I was able to help the team as much as I could; I gave all of myself on the court. I am sorry that I did not have another chance to show myself but thats life. In my opinion, I had good experience, and I leave CSKA with warm feelings towards the great team and organization, and I wish all the best to CSKA in future!' *Courtesy of www.cskabasket.com

Russia U20 celebrated the first victory in Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Russia U20 celebrated the first victory in Day 3 of the International Tournament in Turkey.
In Day 1 France rolled over Russia U20 57:52. The latter opened the game with 16-9, but France responded with 21-12 in the second frame. Moreover the French side won the third and the last periods. Wilfried Yeguette paced all the winners with 13 points and Ferdinand Prenom netted 10. Nikita Balashov (206-F-91) and Ruslan Tumanov (190-G-91) replied with 12 points each in defeat. In Day 2 Turkey U20 edged Russia U20 96:87. The hosts looked better since the very beginning and reached 25-20 after the first 10 minutes. Moreover they won the second frame 24-17 for 12-point deficit heading to the lockers. Russia replied with 28-22 in the third frame, but Turkey needed 25-22 for the final win. Can Mutaf (193-G-91) erupted with 32 points for the hosts and Edge netted 17. Andrey Zubkov (205-G/F-91) ended up with 24 points and 9 rebounds in the losing case.
In Day 3 Russia U20 outscored Ukraine U20 84:78. The latter opened the game with 26-22, but Russia managed to reduce to 2 points at the halftime. In the third frame Russia was better 19-13 and added 21-19 in the last period. Ivan Strebkov (190-G-91) poured in 20 points and Denis Pastukhov scored 19. Olexandr Mishula (187-G-92) erupted with 26 points in the losing effort. Oleksandr Prokopenko and Maksym Sandul netted 13 points apiece.



Khimki add Vyaltsev and Zhukanenko - by Eurobasket News
Khimki add Egor Vyaltsev (192-G-85) and Alexey Zhukanenko (210-F-86, agency: Alti Sport) for the next season. Both Russian players are on the way of joining the second team of the League, that lost to CSKA in the Final.
Egor Vyaltsev comes from Triumph Lyubertsy that he joined in 2007-2008. In his first year for Triumph Lyubertsy (A Superleague) in ULEB Cup he averaged 3.9ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.2spg, while in Russian League after 24 games he showed 4.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.7apg. In 2008-2009 he imporved to 5.3ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 47.4%, FT: 76.9% in Russian League. In 2009-2010 Egor showed 5.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 75.0% in EuroCup, while in Russian League his stats read 7.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 79.6%. Last season for Triumph Lyubertsy in Russian League Egor Vyaltsev averaged high 14.4ppg, 2.5rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), 1.0spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 83.2%.
Alexey Zhukanenko arrives from Dynamo Moscow (A Superleague. In 2009-2010 he averaged 6.0ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 73.3% in EuroCup, while in Russian League his stats read 8.8ppg, 3.5rpg, FGP: 67.2%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 66.7%. In 2010-2011 for Dynamo Moscow (PBL, starting five) in EuroCup Qualifying Round he had high 17.5ppg, 8.5rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0spg, in EuroChallenge his statst read 14.6ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 60.0%, FT: 66.7% and in Russian League he became the second rebounder in the League with 12.7ppg, Reb-2 (7.4rpg), FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.5%.


CSKA release Smodis - by Eurobasket News
CSKA release Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79) as the Slovenia player will not continue with the Russian Champions. He joined the squad early in 2005 and was a great player in all the seasons. This year he averaged 9.8ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 78.6% in VTB-League and had 6.8ppg, 2.7rpg, FGP: 35.1%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 70.0% in EuroLeague. In Russian League his stats read 7.6ppg, 2.9rpg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 77.8%.
Matjaz Smodis recorded 17 points three times last season, two in VTB-League and one in the PBL. At the Regular Season Round 8 BC Nizhny Novgorod was crushed at home by CSKA Moscow 95-60. CSKA Moscow led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 16-of-20 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. CSKA Moscow outrebounded BC Nizhny Novgorod 38-23 including 24 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was Slovenian forward Matjaz Matjaz Smodis who scored 17 points and 6 rebounds.
In VTB -League Russian leader CSKA Moscow delivered the sixth victory beating Ukrainian Dnipro 74-65 early in January. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Dnipro won third quarter 19-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Slovenian forward Matjaz Matjaz Smodis fired a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winners.


Russian U20 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Starting five
#s#
Ivan Strebkov
Strebkov
Nikita Balashov
Balashov
Artem Gorlanov
Gorlanov
Ruslan Tumanov
Tumanov
Andrey Zubkov
Zubkov
#e#5
4 Maxim Tkachenko 183-PG-92 Lok.Kuban-2 Russia
5 Ivan Strebkov 190-G-91 CSKA Russia
6 Ivan Shamov 190-PG-91 Lok.Kuban-2 Russia
7 Denis Pastukhov 196-F-91 N.Novgorod Russia
8 Nikita Balashov 206-F-91 Dynamo Russia
9 Artem Gorlanov 196-G-91 CSKA-Trinta Russia
10 Dmitry Korshakov 201-F-91 CSKA-Trinta Russia
11 Evgeny Fidiy 207-F/C-91 Spartak SP-2 Russia
12 Bendzhamin Dudu 200-F-91 Khimky-2 Russia
13 Nikita Barinov 203-F-91 CSKA-Trinta Russia
14 Ruslan Tumanov 190-G-91 Spartak SP-2 Russia
15 Andrey Zubkov 205-G/F-91 Lok.Kuban-2 Russia



*****************************************************
  SEABA   


Philippines and Indonesia take victories on Day 1 in Jakarta - by Eurobasket News
Philippines - Malaysia 97:71
Strong second half rally propelled Philippines to the opening win at the 9th SEABA Championship in Jakarta. They rallied past Malaysia in the opener. Joseph Evans Casio (177-PG-86) stepped up with 19 points to lead the winners.
Malaysia tipped off the game with a 9:0 run to set up the tone. They kept the Filipino team at bay before Tiu and Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) made it 20:20 entering the second term. Philippines pulled in front early in the second quarter but not for too long. Malaysia increased the tempo and cleared off to a 41:36 advantage at halftime. However Philippines returned from the dressing room a different team. They stiffened their defence and managed to take the lead late in the period. Joseph Evans Casio made it 63:57 for Philippines at the final break. The fourth quarter turned into a one-way traffic. Philippines finally adjusted their offence as they erupted for 34 points and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Japeth Aguilar (207-C-85, college: W.Kentucky) knocked down 18 points, while Marcus Douthit added 14 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Ho Yeow Loong (178-G-88) answered with 11 points for Malaysia. Batumalai Guganeswaran (180-G-83) and Yeo Seng Ng (188-F-81) had 10 points apiece in the loss.

Philippines: Joseph Evans Casio 19, Japeth Aguilar 18, Marcus Douthit 14+15 boards
Malaysia: Ho Yeow Loong 11, Batumalai Guganeswaran 10, Yeo Seng Ng 10


Indonesia - Singapore 71:60
Indonesia celebrated the first win at 9th SEABA Championship held in Jakarta. The hosts overcame Singapore to improve at 1-0 record. Ponsianus Indrawan (190-C-85) stepped up with 12 points and 10 rebounds to pace the hosts. Indonesia used a killer 23:6 run in the fourth term to celebrate victory at the end.
Indonesia opened the game with 7:0 run and led throughout the starting period. The home team posted a 16:14 lead ten minutes into the game. However Steve Khoo and Folkoff helped Singapore take a 27:24 lead midway through the second term. Singapore kept in charge as they registered a 34:31 lead at halftime. Folkoff made it 45:37 for Singapore midway through the third quarter. The visitors arrived at the final break up by six points 54:48. But Indonesia did not say die. They went on an 18:2 run at the start of the fourth frame to clear off for good in this one. Rony Gunawan (193-F/C-80) knocked down 10 points, while Xaverius Prawiro (181-G/F-86), Andi Poedjakesuma (187-F-80) and Amin Prihantono (188-F-82) added 9 points each in the victory. Pathman Matialakan (198-C-80) and Wong Wei Long (172-G-88) responded with 11 points apiece for Singapore. Oh Wei Jie Desmond (176-F-86) netted 10 points in the loss.

Indonesia: Ponsianus Indrawan 12+10 boards, Rony Gunawan 10, Xaverius Prawiro 9, Andi Poedjakesuma 9, Amin Prihantono 9
Singapore: Pathman Matialakan 11, Wong Wei Long 11, Oh Wei Jie Desmond 10


SEA Games Standings
Standings
1. Indonesia1-0
2. Philippine.1-0
3. Singapore0-1
4. Malaysia0-1


*****************************************************
  SERBIA   


Radnicki lands Stefan Bircevic - by Zoran Popovic
Radnicki Kragujevac lands young Stefan Bircevic (209-F/C-89). Management of Radnicki sing with Bircevic three years contract deal. Stefan Bircevic had great season with Metalac Valjevo and on 39 games average scored 12.1 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game. Bircevic started professional career in Metalac Valjevo and played for them last five seasons. Stefan Bircevic was member of Serbian U20 National team.

Vladimir Micov named to 'All-Bosmans Team' in Italy - by Eurobasket News
Vladimir Micov (203-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) is named to 'All-Bosmans Team' in Italian SerieA for season 2010/11. Eurobasket.com announced their season awards on Tuesday. The Serbian forward and his team Bennet Cantu reached SerieA Finals, but failed against the defending champion Montepaschi Siena, what was expected. The Siena team won the series with 4-1 and defended the title. In Game Five, which was played last night, Montepaschi grabbed 63-61 thriller win to close the series. Vladimir Micov shined in Cantu with 17 points and 6 rebounds. Cantu was No.2 in regular season with 22-8 record, what is together with participation in the Finals considered as a great success. Vladimir Micov joined Cantu in December of 2009 from Caja Laboral. He appeared 42 times for them in SerieA this season averaging 10.2 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists. He also added 10.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 3 apg in EuroCup.
Another Serbian was awarded in Italy this season. It is Ivan Zoroski (195-G-79), who got 'Honorable Mention' award. Zoroski averaged 16 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.8 assists for 30 games with Teramo. His team ended as No.15 with 10-20 score. They avoided last place, which belonged to Brindisi at the end.

Miroslav Raduljica to skip EuroBasket 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88) announced he will skip EuroBasket in Lithuania this summer. The 23-year-old center struggled with injuries this season, what was the reason of his decision. Raduljica started last season with Efes Pilsen. Due to injury he appeared just four times in Euroleague averaging 1.3 point. Raduljica moved to ALBA Berlin in March (loan). He played 25 games for them registering 10 ppg and 3.6 rpg. Before ALBA and Efes Pilsen, Raduljica spent couple of years with FMP Zeleznik.
Miroslav Raduljica played for the Serbian National Team at the EuroBasket 2009 in Poland. He helped his country win the Silver at this event. For 7 games Raduljica had 3.3 ppg. That same year, Raduljica won the Gold at the World University Games in Belgrade. He averaged 8.7 points and 6.8 rebounds for 6 games.

Branko Cvetkovic joins BC Astana, Miljan Pupovic back to Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Branko Cvetkovic (200-G/F-84, agency: Beo Basket) is new member of BC Astana. The newly formed team from the Kazakhstan capital will compete in VTB United League next season. Season 2010/11 Cvetkovic spent in Ukraine. He averaged 11.9 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game for BC Donetsk in Superleague. Branko Cvetkovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Bosman Player of the Year. Previously the Serbian played for Scavolini, FMP Zeleznik, Panionios, CAI Zaragoza, Girona, Reflex Beograd, Borac Cacak and Spartak Subotica. Cvetkovic was the member of Serbian National Team in 2007/08 seasons. He averaged 2.7 points and 1.5 rebounds per game in 2009 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. Branko Cvetkovic is the second newcomer in BC Astana as the Kazakh team landed Jerry Johnson several days ago.
Ukrainian team Cherkasy have bolstered their roster for the next season. They have acquired Miljan Pupovic (209-C/F-83). The 28-year-old big guy started the previous season in Superfund BP Beograd. He tallied 6.0 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. In October 2010 Pupovic moved to Kryvbasbasket in Ukrainian Superleague. His stats read 6.2 points, 3.1 boards and 1.3 assists per appearance. In December Pupovic left Ukraine and moved to FYR Macedonia. The centre joined MZT Skopje where his stats read 9.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.1 steals. Pupovic is not new to Cherkasy. The centre played for the Monkeys back in 2008/09 season. He averaged 12.1 points and 5.5 rebounds per game then. Miljan Pupovic also had stints with Hemofarm, Lavovi Beograd, KK Zdravlje Leskovac, FMP Zeleznik, Strumica 2005 and Leuven Bears. Pupovic played for U20 Yugoslavia in the past.

*****************************************************
  SINGAPORE   


Indonesia draw first blood in Jakarta - by Eurobasket News
Indonesia - Singapore 71:60

Indonesia celebrated the first win at 9th SEABA Championship held in Jakarta. The hosts overcame Singapore to improve at 1-0 record. Ponsianus Indrawan (190-C-85) stepped up with 12 points and 10 rebounds to pace the hosts. Indonesia used a killer 23:6 run in the fourth term to celebrate victory at the end.
Indonesia opened the game with 7:0 run and led throughout the starting period. The home team posted a 16:14 lead ten minutes into the game. However Steve Khoo and Folkoff helped Singapore take a 27:24 lead midway through the second term. Singapore kept in charge as they registered a 34:31 lead at halftime. Folkoff made it 45:37 for Singapore midway through the third quarter. The visitors arrived at the final break up by six points 54:48. But Indonesia did not say die. They went on an 18:2 run at the start of the fourth frame to clear off for good in this one. Rony Gunawan (193-F/C-80) knocked down 10 points, while Xaverius Prawiro (181-G/F-86), Andi Poedjakesuma (187-F-80) and Amin Prihantono (188-F-82) added 9 points each in the victory. Pathman Matialakan (198-C-80) and Wong Wei Long (172-G-88) responded with 11 points apiece for Singapore. Oh Wei Jie Desmond (176-F-86) netted 10 points in the loss.

Indonesia: Ponsianus Indrawan 12+10 boards, Rony Gunawan 10, Xaverius Prawiro 9, Andi Poedjakesuma 9, Amin Prihantono 9
Singapore: Pathman Matialakan 11, Wong Wei Long 11, Oh Wei Jie Desmond 10


Singapore National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
4 Fok Yew Sing
5 Folkoff Mitchell
6 Ng Hanbin 192-G/F-89 Singapore S. Singapore
7 Wu Qingde
8 Desmond Wei Jie Oh 176-F-86 Singapore S. Singapore
9 Wong Wei Long 172-G-88 Singapore S. Singapore
10 Koh Meng Koon
11 Lim ShengYu 190-F-90 Singapore S. Singapore
12 Gary Koh Kok Siang Singapore S. Singapore
13 Steven Khoo Kian Huat 189-C-85 Singapore S. Singapore
14 Delvin Goh Kok Chiang
15 Matialakan Pathman 198-C-80 Singapore S. Singapore



*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA   


New Foreigners Bring Height, Excitement to the KBL - by Jeff Liebsch
As teams have been signing their free agents this offseason, the teams have been loading up on height and athleticism, while some players are making the jump over from China.

While there are some returning stars such as Sonic Boom KT Rhodes Charles (203-F/C-85, college: Mississippi St.) and Wonju Dongbu Promy Benson Rod (208-F/C-84, college: California), others who have a plethora of international experience are also joining the league.

The sixth-place Seoul Samsung Thunders signed 7'3 Peter John Ramos (222-C-85), who will look to dominate the league this year. The 26-year-old Puerto Rican was picked as the 32nd selection in the draft's second round, by the Washington Wizards in 2004. He played in six games scoring 11 points with 4 rebounds and 1 block.

The last-place Daegu Orions also picked up Williams Chris (199-F/G-80, college: Virginia), who will also make an immediate impact with his new club. Daegu were a disapointing 15-39 last year.

Anyang KGC also hope to improve their ninth-place finish by signing White Rodney (206-F-80, college: Charlotte), a former 2001 Detroit Pistons draft pick. He also makes the jump from China after starring for Zhejiang Guangsha Lions last season.



*****************************************************
  SPAIN   


Regal Barca will part ways with Alan Anderson and Terence Morris - by Eurobasket News
Alan Anderson (198-G/F-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan St.) and Terence Morris (207-F-79, college: Maryland) won't play for Regal Barca next season. Their contracts with the reigning Spanish champion will expire on June 30 and Barca will not offer extension.
Alan Anderson joined Barca in December from the New Mexico Thunderbirds (NBDL). He appeared 10 times in Euroleague averaging 11.4 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists. In ACB, Anderson added 10.6 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 1 apg. However, it was not enough for him to secure an extension. Anderson spent last season with Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv.
Terence Morris also joined Barca last summer. He had 6.6 ppg and 4 rpg for 20 Euroleague games. Morris also added 5.9 ppg and 3.3 rpg in 41 ACB league appearances.
Yesterday, Regal Barca announced signing of Chuck Eidson, who was a teammate of Anderson and Morris in Maccabi.

Jesus Fernandez extends contract with Granada - by Eurobasket News
Jesus Fernandez (204-C-75) will stay with Granada in the next season. The relegated team have agreed on terms of contract extension with the centre. Jesus Fernandez joined Granada back in 2003. Last season the centre posted 6.2 points and 3.7 rebounds per game in ACB. Previously Jesus Fernandez played for Fuenlabrada, Menorca, Ourense, Valencia, Gandia and Godella.


*****************************************************
  TURKEY   


Bursa signs Serhat Buker - by Eurobasket News
Serhat Buker (202-F-81) is a new member of Bursa. The experienced Turkish forward signed a deal for the nest season. Buker arrives to Bursa from Trabzonspor, where he spent last two years. He had very limited playing time with Trabzon last season averaging just 1.7 point. In 2009/10, Buker had 3.9 ppg and 3.3 rpg with the same team, but in TB2L. They were TB2L champions in 2010.
Before Trabzon, Buker played for Oyak Renault. He appeared 27 times with them in TBL registering 3.9 ppg and 3.3 rpg. He was a member of Oyak Renault also from 2002 to 2007. In the meantime, Buker spent one year with Tofas Bursa.
Bursa will play next season in TB2L.

Turkey U20 wins first three games in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U20 wins first three games in Istanbul at the home tournament. After the win over Latvia in Day 1, Turkey added another two over Russia and czech Republic.
In Day 2 Turkey U20 edged Russia U20 96:87. The hosts looked better since the very beginning and reached 25-20 after the first 10 minutes. Moreover they won the second frame 24-17 for 12-point deficit heading to the lockers. Russia replied with 28-22 in the third frame, but Turkey needed 25-22 for the final win. Mutaf erupted with 32 points for the hosts and Edge netted 17. Andrey Zubkov ended up with 24 points and 9 rebounds in the losing case.
In Day 3 Turkey improved to 3-0 record after the difficult win over Czech Republic 75:72. Trailing 19-18 after the first 10 minutes, the hosts produced a 20-16 in the second frame and added 19-15 in the third period. Czech Republic tried to recover but won the last frame 22-18. Mutaf top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Edge posted 13. Ondrej Balvin ended up with 17 points and 9 rebounds in defeat, while Tomas Vyoral scored 15.





Turkey U20 wins first three games in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U20 wins first three games in Istanbul at the home tournament. After the win over Latvia in Day 1, Turkey added another two over Russia and czech Republic.
In Day 2 Turkey U20 edged Russia U20 96:87. The hosts looked better since the very beginning and reached 25-20 after the first 10 minutes. Moreover they won the second frame 24-17 for 12-point deficit heading to the lockers. Russia replied with 28-22 in the third frame, but Turkey needed 25-22 for the final win. Can Mutaf (193-G-91) erupted with 32 points for the hosts and Safak Edge (188-G-92) netted 17. Andrey Zubkov (205-G/F-91) ended up with 24 points and 9 rebounds in the losing case.
In Day 3 Turkey improved to 3-0 record after the difficult win over Czech Republic 75:72. Trailing 19-18 after the first 10 minutes, the hosts produced a 20-16 in the second frame and added 19-15 in the third period. Czech Republic tried to recover but won the last frame 22-18. Can Mutaf top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Safak Edge posted 13. Ondrej Balvin ended up with 17 points and 9 rebounds in defeat, while Tomas Vyoral scored 15.




Turkey rally past Bulgaria in Douai - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Bulgaria U18 85:59

Turkey earned the second consecutive win at the Douai international tournament in France. They held off Bulgarian counterparts. Tayfun Erulku (188-G/F-94) stepped up with 18 points to pace the winning side.
Turkey dominated right from the start. They built a comfortable 23:12 lead after ten minutes of action. Turkey continued to mount the pressure in the second quarter. They established a 43:25 halftime lead. The margin grew at 30 points in the third term. Turkey entered the fourth period leading 73:37. Bulgaria sweetened the pill with a 22:12 run in the fourth term. Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) knocked down 14 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for Turkey. Berkay Candan (205-F-93) added 12 points in the victory. Tencho Tenchev (202-F-93) answered with 13 points for Bulgaria. Galabov delivered 10 points and 7 boards in the loss.

Turkey U18: Tayfun Erulku 18, Ramazan Tekin 14, Berkay Candan 12
Bulgaria U18: Tencho Tenchev 13, Galabov 10


Turkish U18 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Kenan Sipahi
Sipahi
Kerem Hotic
Hotic
Bulut Altin
Altin
Samet Geyik
Geyik
Ramazan Tekin
Tekin
#e#5
4 Kenan Sipahi 192-G-95 Tofas Turkey
6 Berkay Candan 205-F-93 Fener.Ulker Turkey
7 Mertcan Ozen 194-F/G-93 Tofas Turkey
8 Kerem Hotic 197-F-93 Fener.Ulker Turkey
10 Bulut Altin 185-PG-93 Pertevniyal Turkey
11 Samet Geyik 206-F-93 Tofas Turkey
12 Ahmet Bugrahan G-94 Besiktas Turkey
13 Talat Altunbey 202-F-94 Genc Banvit Turkey
14 Ugur Dokuyan 197-F-93 Tofas Turkey
15 Ramazan Tekin 212-C-93 Pertevniyal Turkey
16 Yigit Emre Mirza Tofas Turkey
17 Taylan Suerkip Genc Telekom Turkey



*****************************************************
  UKRAINE   


Ukraine U20 lost in Day 2 and 3 in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine U20 lost in Day 2 and 3 in Istanbul, Turkey at the friendly tournament with 6 participating teams.
In Day 2 France U20 overcame Ukraine U20 79:68. The winners started with 21-12 and added 23-17 in the second period. Both teams nailed 20 points each in the third quarter, while Ukraine won the last stanza 19-15. Romain Hillote stepped up with 15 points, while Evan Fournier (200-G/F-92) and Ferdinand Prenom scored 14. Andriy Lebendintsev replied with 22 points in the losing effort and Maksym Sandul (207-C-91) collected 18 points and 10 boards.
In Day 3 Russia U20 outscored Ukraine U20 84:78. The latter opened the game with 26-22, but Russia managed to reduce to 2 points at the halftime. In the third frame Russia was better 19-13 and added 21-19 in the last period. Ivan Strebkov poured in 20 points and Denis Pastukhov (196-F-91, agency: Interperformances) scored 19. Olexandr Mishula (187-G-92) erupted with 26 points in the losing effort. Oleksandr Prokopenko and Maksym Sandul netted 13 points apiece.


BC Donetsk release all import players - by Eurobasket News
BC Donetsk had decided not to renew contracts with all of their import players. Superleague vice-champions parted ways with Branko Cvetkovic (200-G/F-84, agency: Beo Basket) (already signed with BC Astana), Sasa Vasiljevic (183-G-79, agency: Beo Basket), Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket), J.K. Edwards (202-C/F-82, college: UNLV), Luis Flores (188-G-81, college: Manhattan), Andre Owens (193-G-80, college: Houston) and Justin Gray (188-G-84, college: Wake Forest).
Sasa Vasiljevic arrived at the start of the last season. The guard notched 10.3 points, 4.6 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game in Superleague.
Branko Cvetkovic tallied 11.9 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists per appearance.
Jasmin Hukic averaged 11.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.2 assists in Superleague. Luis Flores posted 16.7 points, 3.6 boards and 3.3 assists before getting sidelined by injury in April. Justin Gray joined BC Donetsk in April. His stats read 6.4 points, 2.4 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game.
J.K. Edwards accounted for 10.9 points, 5.8 boards and 1.1 assists per game. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Centre of the Year.


*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


New BBL Birmingham Team Announce 2012-13 Venue - by Paul Nilsen
Oaks Consultancy is delighted to announce that the Futsal International Arena Birmingham will be the primary venue for the BBL Birmingham club's community programme. They are also gearing up to host the team's home matches from the 2012/13 BBL season.

The British Basketball League (BBL) granted exclusive rights to Oaks Consultancy to operate a Birmingham franchise from the start of the 2012/13 season. The announcement last week generated significant interest from the basketball world in the UK and reinforced Oaks' commitment to bringing BBL basketball back to Birmingham - a city with close ties to the sport and the league itself.

Oaks Consultancy is beginning dialogue with many of the existing basketball providers across the city to ensure that the sport is given the highest profile possible and creates a number of strong successful partnerships. Oaks also recognise the power of sport in helping local communities achieve better lives. To this end, they are also talking to a range of community providers across the city, who already address agendas such as health, social inclusion, racial tension, crime and anti-social behaviour.

'Oaks is all about sport - we work, live and breathe it, therefore the prospect of bringing BBL basketball back to Birmingham was a fantastic one for us. We're looking forward to working with key partners in the city to increase participation levels in this Olympic sport in advance of 2012 and we're obviously also keen to develop community support for the club in advance of their first game in September 2012.

One of our prime objectives over the coming months is to create a community programme we can be proud of, which is why our partnership with the Futsal International Arena Birmingham is so important to us. As a venue it's ideal for us and will undoubtedly help fulfil our objective of increasing participation levels in the sport across the city.'

Mark Walker, Managing Partner of Oaks Consultancy

'The opportunity for the Futsal International Arena Birmingham to host the Birmingham BBL team from 2012 is fantastic. I'm delighted to be able to provide a venue for the club and particularly pleased to be involved with the club at a grass roots level with the club's community events programme.'

Frank Rodriguez, Managing Director, the Futsal International Arena Birmingham

'We are really pleased to see a flagship basketball team coming to the city with its base at the Futsal International Arena Birmingham. Having a high profile, high performing team will do much to drive a renewed interest and participation in competitive and community basketball and we look forward to working with Oaks, the Futsal arena and key partners such as Sport England and England Basketball on this exciting initiative. We know that basketball has the potential to engage those who may typically not be fully involved in sport and hope that this initiative inspires many from across Birmingham to take on a sporting lifestyle, and possibly go on to represent the city by playing for the Birmingham BBL basketball team.'

Mike Dickenson, Director of the Birmingham Sports and Physical Activity Partnership

'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 into a significant player in UK Basketball'

Paul Blake, Chairman, British Basketball League

Oaks are yet to announce the official name for the team due to ongoing discussions with potential title partners and are currently using the working name 'BBL Birmingham' but hope to be able to confirm this over the coming months. The new owners are keen to hear from any commercial entities interested in supporting or becoming a sponsor of the club's community programme or indeed of the team itself.


*****************************************************
  VTB UNITED LEAGUE   


Branko Cvetkovic lands in Astana - by Eurobasket News
BC Astana are working hard to improve their roster for the next season. The newly created team landed Branko Cvetkovic (200-G/F-84, agency: Beo Basket). The forward signed a deal with the Kazakh team. Last season Branko Cvetkovic spent in Ukraine. He averaged 11.9 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game for BC Donetsk in Superleague. Branko Cvetkovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Bosman Player of the Year. Previously the Serbian played for Scavolini, FMP Zeleznik, Panionios, CAI Zaragoza, Girona, Reflex Beograd, Borac Cacak and Spartak Subotica. Branko Cvetkovic was the member of Serbian National Team in 2007/08 seasons. He averaged 2.7 points and 1.5 rebounds per game in 2009 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. Branko Cvetkovic is the second newcomer in BC Astana as the Kazakh team landed Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Rider) several days ago.



*****************************************************
  WABA   


Standings
Standings
1. Iran1-0
2. Syria1-0
3. Iraq0-1
4. Jordan0-1




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

Women News

*****************************************************
  ARGENTINA - Women  


National League 2011 - by Facundo Iatzky
National league will start tomorrow with 16 teams.there will be 4 groups in the first stage. The frist two teams of each group will qualify to second round.
Rosters:
Group A:
BANDA NORTE CORDOBA
VILLA BELGRANO SALTA
UNION DE SUNCHALES
VELEZ SARSFIELD

group b:
UNIVERSITARIO CORDOBA
INDEPENDIENTE SALTA
PETROLEROS YPF MENDOZA
UNION FLORIDA

Group C:
DEPORTIVO BERAZATEGUI
LIBERTAD DE SUNCHALES
REGATAS SAN NICOLAS
BEN HUR ROSARIO

Group D:
PUEBLO NUEVO ENTRE RIOS
RACING/GUARANI MISIONES
TALLERES PARANA
ATLETICO LANUS

*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Storm's Lauren Jackson to undergo more tests - by Eurobasket News
Storm center Lauren Jackson will undergo more tests Thursday after evaluations on her strained left hip were inconclusive Wednesday.

The three-time MVP suffered the injury in the opening half of a win at Tulsa on Tuesday. Jackson, who is 6 feet 6, said she locked legs with fellow Australian Liz Cambage, who's 6-8.

Neither fell to the ground, but Jackson felt she heard 'a pop' and was removed with 5:50 remaining in the second quarter. She admitted to having a cortisone shot in the area before the trip due to previous pain.

Jackson and Storm coach Brian Agler didn't want to speculate about the injury.

She was able to walk but was in pain. Jackson was unavailable for comment on Wednesday and the team didn't practice after traveling from a two-game trip.

Courtesy of http://seattletimes.nwsource.com

Australia too good for Brazil in Yulin - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Brazil 76:70

Australia victoriously opened Four-Nations Tournament in Yulin. They held off Brazil in the first game. Elyse Penaluna (193-C-88) stepped up with 28 points to lead the Opals. Australia avenged of the loss to Brazil at Qi Yi Cup several days ago.
The Opals entered the game aggressively scoring 25 points in the starting frame. They recorded a 24:15 lead after ten minutes of action. Brazil however quickly tuned in and cut the deficit at 6 points at the interval 39:45. The Latin American powerhouse got within 3 points at the final intermission. Australia pulled together in the fourth period opening a 10-point lead and holding on for the victory. Abby Bishop (189-C-88) nailed 12 points, while Hanna Zavecz (182-F/G-85) provided 11 points in the win. Silvia Gustavo (186-F-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) responded with 16 points for Brazil. Nadia Calhado (194-C-89) accounted for 14 points in defeat.
Australia will face New Zealand, while Brazil will play against China tonight.

Australia: Elyse Penaluna 28, Abby Bishop 12, Hanna Zavecz 11
Brazil: Silvia Gustavo 16, Nadia Calhado 14


*****************************************************
  BELARUS - Women  


Group E: Belarus beat Russia 62-51 - by Eurobasket News
This match was announced as game of the day. Russia lost the game against Belarus 51:62. Current situation in the group E: Belarus had got 2 wins and 1 lost. Russian record is
worse 1 win and 2 lost. Natalia Marchanka scored 11 points, Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) made a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds. In the Russian NT Maria Stepanova (203-C-79) ended the game with 12 points, Elena Danilochkina (185-G-86) scored 10 points.

Both teams: Russia and Belarus was very motivated to win this game. After three minutes of play Russia was up by 4. During this quarter, Russia had got a small advantage
between 2 and 4 points. Belarus cannot tied the game and Russia cannot to extend the advantage. Russian players were dominating on the boards and that was a reason of their advantage. Russia won the first quarter 10:14. We started the second quarter with the same situation. Belarus and Russia played very aligned game, but Russian was still leading this game. In the middle of the quarter Natalia Marchanka (170-G-79) scored 4 straight points and Belarus had taken the lead first time in this game. Then, Marina Kuzina (194-C-85) made a shot and Russia tied the game. Both teams were playing very good defense and we had ended the first half with very small score 24:25 for Russia.

After the brake Belarus had taken a lead, with 7:06 to play they had 6 points advantage. Russia reduced lost to 1 point. Then Belarus rebuilt the built after shots Yelena Leuchanka and Natalia Marchanka (186-F-79). Russian made some easy mistakes , Belorussian exploit it and scoring points. With 3:43 to play in the 3rd Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) scored another two points and Belarus had got 7 points advantage. Russian coach Boris Sokolovsky called timeout second in the third quarter ! Belarus still had been increasing their advantage. Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) made a lay-up with 1:04 to play in the third and Belarus had got 12 points lead. Before the last quarter Belarus was up by 10 50:40. Russia reduced lost to 7 points, but then Belarus scored 8 straight points. After Natalia Marchanka three point shot Belarus was up by 14 with 5:42 to play in the last quarter. Russian players cannot do anything to get back in this game. With 1:57 Russian coach called his last timeout. At that moment score was 60:49 for Belarus, Than Olga Arteshina (183-F-82) made a lay-up and the Belarusian coach called a timeout. With 1:13 to play Natalia Anufryienka made a lay-up for Belarus and she established the score. Belarus won the game against Russia 62:51.

Belarus - Russia 62:51 (10:14, 14:11, 26:15, 12:11)
Belarus: Natalia Marchanka 11, Yelena Leuchanka 10, Nataliya Trafimava (186-F-79) 9
Russia: Maria Stepanova 12, Elena Danilochkina 10, Ilona Korstin (183-G-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) 7

*BY LUKASZ LUKASZEWSKI

*****************************************************
  BOSNIA - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
D1 - League 10 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Duera, Mladi 21.1
2 Papcevic, Igman 19.9
3 Anic, Tomislav 19.6
4 Rahmanovic, Jednist. 17.0
5 Bugarin, Zeljez. 16.4
Rebounds Per Game
1 Gajic, Banovci 10.4
2 Bugarin, Zeljez. 8.3
3 Durdevic, Sloboda 8.1
4 Dados, Tomislav 7.9
4 Rahmanovic, Jednist. 7.9
Assists Per Game
1 Zakula, Mladi 4.8
1 Bajic, Zeljez. 4.8
3 Pinter, Igman 4.3
4 Latinovic, Mladi 3.8
5 Kovacevic, Jednist. 3.4
5. Deura, Mladi 3.4
Steals Per Game
1 Kajtaz, Sloboda 3.9
1 Gajic, Banovici 3.9
3 Surlan, Sloboda 3.3
4 Anic, Tomislav 2.9
5 Dzombeta, Borac 2.8
5 Bajic, Zeljez. 2.8
Blocks Per Game
1 Demirovic, Zeljez, 1.6
2 Rados, Tomislav 1.5
3 Bogoje, Mladi 1.2
4 Stankovic, Sloboda 1.1
5 Rahmanovic, Jednist. 0.8
Ranking
1. Dajana Bugarin 23.4
2. Ivona Bogoje 23.1
3. Antonela Anic 21.5
4. Emina Demirvic 20.4
5. Marica Gajic 19.6


*****************************************************
  BRAZIL - Women  


Australia too good for Brazil in Yulin - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Brazil 76:70

Australia victoriously opened Four-Nations Tournament in Yulin. They held off Brazil in the first game. Elyse Penaluna (193-C-88) stepped up with 28 points to lead the Opals. Australia avenged of the loss to Brazil at Qi Yi Cup several days ago.
The Opals entered the game aggressively scoring 25 points in the starting frame. They recorded a 24:15 lead after ten minutes of action. Brazil however quickly tuned in and cut the deficit at 6 points at the interval 39:45. The Latin American powerhouse got within 3 points at the final intermission. Australia pulled together in the fourth period opening a 10-point lead and holding on for the victory. Abby Bishop (189-C-88) nailed 12 points, while Hanna Zavecz (182-F/G-85) provided 11 points in the win. Silvia Gustavo (186-F-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) responded with 16 points for Brazil. Nadia Calhado (194-C-89) accounted for 14 points in defeat.
Australia will face New Zealand, while Brazil will play against China tonight.

Australia: Elyse Penaluna 28, Abby Bishop 12, Hanna Zavecz 11
Brazil: Silvia Gustavo 16, Nadia Calhado 14


*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Group E: Czech Republic stays undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic beat Turkey 56:51 in the evening game in the group E on Bydgoszcz. Czech Republic is still undefeated on this tournament. They have a perfect record in the group E with 3 wins and no loses. Turkey is in much worse situation they have 3 loses and no wins. Katerina Elhotova (180-G-89) led her team to win another scoring 19 points. Also Veronika Bortelova showed a great performance scoring 14 points. Jana Vesela (192-F-83) added 12 points and 6 rebounds. Nevriye Yilmaz (194-C-80) and Nevriye Yilmaz scored 11 points for Turkey.

Czech Republic made a good start. After 3 minutes and 10 seconds Czechs were up by 6 1:7. Then Turkish team woke up. Turkey scored 5 straight points and Czechs coach
called a timeout. After 7 minutes of play Czech Republic was leading by 5 points 6:11. Turkey cannot make up for a loss, so after Katerina Elhotova shot Turkish coach called a
timeout. As always Czech Republic had been presenting great team work. After first quarter Czechs were up by 6 12:18. In the beginning of the second quarter both teams had
got problems with scoring points. Czech Republic had been controlling their advantage. Turkish was unable to reduce lost. With 3:30 to play in the second, after Veronika Bortelova (169-G-78) three point shot, Turkey was down by 10 points 16:26. Nevriye Yilmaz scored 6 straight points late in the second with no Czechs response. Thanks to it before the second half Turkey was down by 4.

Czech Republic started the third quarter with two free throws made by Veronika Bortelova. Turkey respond with two three pointers by Nevriye Yilmaz and tied the game !
Czech Republic had taken a lead again after Veronika Bortelova long distance shot. In this time both team cancelled each other. Spectators in Luczniczka could not see many points.
Then, thanks to 2+1 action by Nevin Nevlin (195-C-85, college: Stanford) Turkey tied the game second time in this quarter. After lay-up made by Nevin Nevlin in the last seconds of the third quarter Turkey had taken the lead first time in this game. Before the last quarter Turkey was leading by 1 37:36.

Czech Republic started the last quarter equally to third with points scored by Veronika Bortelova. She hit the three and Czech Republic get back on the lead. Then Jana Vesela
shot another three and Czech Republic was leading by 5 37:42 with 8:58 to play in the fourth quarter. Turkey reduced disadvantage to 1 point 41:42, but Czech Republic rebuilt
the lead to 4 points. With 2:50 to play Czech Republic was up by 5 and Turkish coach called a timeout. Although Turkish effort they were down 10 with 1:04 to play in the fourth
quarter. Turkey tried to get back in this game scoring 5 straight points, but when Katerina Elhotova made two free throws It was clear that Czech Republic would win this game.

Turkey - Czech Republic 51:56 (12:18, 10:8, 15:10, 14:20)
Turkey: Nevriye Yilmaz 11, Nevriye Yilmaz 11, Nevin Nevlin 7
Czech Republic: Katerina Elhotova 19, Veronika Bortelova 14, Jana Vesela 12

*BY LUKASZ LUKASZEWSKI

*****************************************************
  ESTONIA - Women  


Meisterliga Stst Leaders
Meistriliiga Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Nikolai, TLU 19.8
2 Kostla, NikeWomen 17.0
3 Sokman, Tartu 16.8
4 Skorohhodova, TLU 16.6
5 Teppo, Tartu 16.2
Rebounds Per Game
1 Teppo, Tartu 10.5
2 Koster, NikeWomen 9.2
3 Mitt, Tartu 8.1
4 Bratka, Audentes 7.8
5 Bratka, Eclex 7.8
Assists Per Game
1 Okuneva , TLU 3.1
2 Rosenfeldt, Tartu 3.0
3 Ptitsona, Eclex 2.7
4 Pilv, Audentes 2.6
5 Haas, Eclex 2.5
Steals Per Game
1 Miil, TLU 3.0
2 Sokman, Tartu 2.8
2 Teppo, Tartu 2.8
4 Pilv, Audents 2.5
5 Skorohhodova, TLU 2.4
Blocks Per Game
1 Koster, NikeWomen 1.5
2 Teppo, Tartu 1.1
2 Mesila-Kaarmann, Eclex 1.1


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Standings Div.A (Women)
Standings
Group E
1. Lithuania3-0
2. Czech Rep.3-0
3. Belarus2-1
4. Russia1-2
5. Turkey0-3
6. U.Kingdom0-3
Group F
1. Latvia3-0
2. Montenegro.3-0
3. France2-1
4. Spain1-2
5. Croatia0-3
6. Poland0-3


Group E: Lithuania snatched victory over Great Britain - by Lukasz Lukaszewski
Lithuania win the game against Great Britain after incredible end of the match. Lithuanian players win 64:63 and they have a perfect record in the group E: 3 victories and no loses.
Great Britain has got much worse situation, They have only three loses. The game was very interesting, neither team was able to elaborate biggest advantage than 6 in the whole
match. Although JulieAnne Page (188-F/C-83, college: E.Washington) 19 points and 7 rebounds Great Britain lost this game. Ausra Bimbaite (179-G-82)e led her team to win this game scoring 16 points, Sandra Linkeviciene (176-G-82) added 14.

The game between Great Britain and Lithuania was not very intensive in the beginning. After 2 minutes of play and three points shot made by JulieAnne Page Great Britain was up by 1 - 5:4. Both team had been presenting strict defense, in the middle of the first quarter Lithuania was leading by 3 7:10. Great Britain was still down by few points and their coach
Tom Maher called a timeout. Thanks to two free throws made by Johannah Leedham (180-G/F-87, college: Franklin Pierce) Great Britain lost first quarter only by one points 15:16. In the first three minutes of the first quarter we had some lead changes, teams are playing basket for basket. Then, Lithuania elaborate 4 point lead 24:26. 90 seconds of play later Great Britain tied the games and the score was 28:28. With 1:16 to play in the second quarter Great Britain had taken 2 point lead 32:30 and Lithuanian coach wanted to talk with his players. In the middle of the game on the board was the same score. The game was very aligned and everything could happen in the next two quarters .

After the brake Great Britain had been dominating the boards. British player were still leading. With 4:32 in the third Rima Valentiene (170-G-78)e hit the three for Lithuania and British coach Tom Maher automatically called a timeout. Then, Sandra Linkeviciene made 2+1 action and Lithuania get back on the lead. Few minutes late Great Britain regained the leading, after Johannah Leedham three point shot. The game was very aligned and neither team was able to keep leading for long time. Before the last quarter Great Britain had got 1 point
advantage 49:48. Lithuania had got many problems with scoring points. With 8:48 to play Great Britain had got only one point of advantage, almost 2 minutes later British players
were leading by 6 - 56:50. Lithuanian coach called a timeout after JulieAnne Page long distance shot, his players still had got 6 points disadvantage with 5:45 to play. Lithuania very
slowly reduced the lost, but with 2:27 they had only 1 point of disadvantage 63:62. Then, We could watch almost two minutes without any points. With 44 seconds to play Egle
Sulciute made two free throws and put Lithuania on point lead 63:64. 28 seconds later Sandra Linkeviciene missed two free throws, but Great Britain lost the ball and opportunity
to win this game. On Saturday, Lithuania will play with Belarus. Great Britain has got a game against Turkey.

Great Britain Lithuania 63:64 (15:16, 17:14, 17:18, 14:16)
Great Britain: JulieAnne Page 19, Johannah Leedham 14, Kimberly Butler (186-F-82, college: Oregon St.) 11
Lithuania: Ausra Bimbaitee 16, Sandra Linkeviciene 14, Egle Sulciute (190-F-85) 9


Group E: Belarus beat Russia - by Lukasz Lukaszewski
This match was announced as game of the day. Russia lost the game against Belarus 51:62. Current situation in the group E: Belarus had got 2 wins and 1 lost. Russian record is
worse 1 win and 2 lost. Natalia Marchanka scored 11 points, Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) made a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds. In the Russian NT Maria Stepanova (203-C-79) ended the game with 12 points, Elena Danilochkina (185-G-86) scored 10 points.

Both teams: Russia and Belarus was very motivated to win this game. After three minutes of play Russia was up by 4. During this quarter, Russia had got a small advantage
between 2 and 4 points. Belarus cannot tied the game and Russia cannot to extend the advantage. Russian players were dominating on the boards and that was a reason of their
advantage. Russia won the first quarter 10:14. We started the second quarter with the same situation. Belarus and Russia played very aligned game, but Russian was still leading
this game. In the middle of the quarter Natalia Marchanka (170-G-79) scored 4 straight points and Belarus had taken the lead first time in this game. Then, Marina Kuzina (194-C-85) made a shot and Russia tied the game. Both teams were playing very good defense and we had ended the first half with very small score 24:25 for Russia.

After the brake Belarus had taken a lead, with 7:06 to play they had 6 points advantage. Russia reduced lost to 1 point. Then Belarus rebuilt the built after shots Yelena Leuchanka
and Natalia Marchanka (186-F-79). Russian made some easy mistakes , Belorussian exploit it and scoring points. With 3:43 to play in the 3rd Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) scored another two points and
Belarus had got 7 points advantage. Russian coach Boris Sokolovsky called timeout second in the third quarter ! Belarus still had been increasing their advantage. Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) made a lay-up with 1:04 to play in the third and Belarus had got 12 points lead. Before the last quarter Belarus was up by 10 50:40. Russia reduced lost to 7 points, but then Belarus scored 8 straight points. After Natalia Marchanka three point shot Belarus was up by 14 with 5:42 to play in the last quarter. Russian players cannot do anything to get back in this game. With 1:57 Russian coach called his last timeout. At that moment score was 60:49 for Belarus, Than Olga Arteshina (183-F-82) made a lay-up and the Belarusian coach called a timeout. With 1:13 to play Natalia Anufryienka made a lay-up for Belarus and she established the score. Belarus won the game against Russia 62:51.

Belarus Russia 62:51 (10:14, 14:11, 26:15, 12:11)
Belarus: Natalia Marchanka 11, Yelena Leuchanka 10, Nataliya Trafimava (186-F-79) 9
Russia: Maria Stepanova 12, Elena Danilochkina 10, Ilona Korstin (183-G-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) 7


Group E: Czech Republic stay undefeated - by Lukasz Lukaszewski
Czech Republic beat Turkey 56:51 in the evening game in the group E on Bydgoszcz. Czech Republic is still undefeated on this tournament. They have a perfect record in the group E
with 3 wins and no loses. Turkey is in much worse situation they have 3 loses and no wins. Katerina Elhotova (180-G-89) led her team to win another scoring 19 points. Also Veronika Bortelova showed a great performance scoring 14 points. Jana Vesela (192-F-83) added 12 points and 6 rebounds. Nevriye Yilmaz (194-C-80) and Nevriye Yilmaz scored 11 points for Turkey.

Czech Republic made a good start. After 3 minutes and 10 seconds Czechs were up by 6 1:7. Then Turkish team woke up. Turkey scored 5 straight points and Czechs coach
called a timeout. After 7 minutes of play Czech Republic was leading by 5 points 6:11. Turkey cannot make up for a loss, so after Katerina Elhotova shot Turkish coach called a
timeout. As always Czech Republic had been presenting great team work. After first quarter Czechs were up by 6 12:18. In the beginning of the second quarter both teams had
got problems with scoring points. Czech Republic had been controlling their advantage. Turkish was unable to reduce lost. With 3:30 to play in the second, after Veronika Bortelova (169-G-78) three point shot, Turkey was down by 10 points 16:26. Nevriye Yilmaz scored 6 straight points late in the second with no Czechs response. Thanks to it before the second half Turkey was down by 4.

Czech Republic started the third quarter with two free throws made by Veronika Bortelova. Turkey respond with two three pointers by Nevriye Yilmaz and tied the game !
Czech Republic had taken a lead again after Veronika Bortelova long distance shot. In this time both team cancelled each other. Spectators in Luczniczka could not see many points.
Then, thanks to 2+1 action by Nevin Nevlin (195-C-85, college: Stanford) Turkey tied the game second time in this quarter. After lay-up made by Nevin Nevlin in the last seconds of the third quarter Turkey had taken the lead first time in this game. Before the last quarter Turkey was leading by 1 37:36.

Czech Republic started the last quarter equally to third with points scored by Veronika Bortelova. She hit the three and Czech Republic get back on the lead. Then Jana Vesela
shot another three and Czech Republic was leading by 5 37:42 with 8:58 to play in the fourth quarter. Turkey reduced disadvantage to 1 point 41:42, but Czech Republic rebuilt
the lead to 4 points. With 2:50 to play Czech Republic was up by 5 and Turkish coach called a timeout. Although Turkish effort they were down 10 with 1:04 to play in the fourth
quarter. Turkey tried to get back in this game scoring 5 straight points, but when Katerina Elhotova made two free throws It was clear that Czech Republic would win this game.

Turkey - Czech Republic 51:56 (12:18, 10:8, 15:10, 14:20)
Turkey: Nevriye Yilmaz 11, Nevriye Yilmaz 11, Nevin Nevlin 7
Czech Republic: Katerina Elhotova 19, Veronika Bortelova 14, Jana Vesela 12


Stats Leaders Div.A (Women)
Points Per Game
 Doneeka HODGES
  USA
  (175-G-82)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Hodges, BUL20.3 
 2. Perovanovic, MNT20.0 
 3. Tuukkanen, FIN18.3 
 4. Elhotova, CZE18.0 
 5. Torrens, ESP17.5 
 6. Kalentzou, GRE16.0 
 7. Zherzherunov., UKR15.5 
 8. Yilmaz, TUR15.0 
 9. Meesseman, BEL15.0 
 10. Gruda, FRA14.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Zane TAMANE
  LAT
  (200-C-83)
  Avg: 12.5
 1. Tamane, LAT12.5 
 2. Perovanovic, MNT10.7 
 3. Leuchanka, BLR9.5 
 4. Meesseman, BEL9.0 
 5. Bar, GER8.8 
 6. Tuukkanen, FIN8.8 
 7. Stepanova, RUS8.3 
 8. Zherzherunov., UKR8.3 
 9. Kobryn, POL8.3 
 10. Ress, ITA8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Jelena DUBLJEVIC
  MNT
  (191-C-87)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Dubljevic, MNT5.7 
 2. Babkina, LAT5.5 
 3. Marchanka, BLR4.8 
 4. Mandir, CRO4.5 
 5. De Forge, MNT4.3 
 6. Pawlak, POL3.8 
 7. Vardarli, TUR3.5 
 8. Bar, GER3.3 
 9. Dumerc, FRA3.3 
 10. Ivezic, CRO3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Anna DE FORGE
  USA
  (178-G-76)
  Avg: 3
 1. De Forge, MNT3.0 
 2. Linkeviciene, LTU3.0 
 3. Lyttle, ESP2.8 
 4. Alben, TUR2.8 
 5. Kalentzou, GRE2.7 
 6. Zherzherunov., UKR2.5 
 7. Mayombo, BEL2.5 
 8. Ivezic, CRO2.3 
 9. Zlatanova, BUL2.3 
 10. Bimbaite, LTU2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Sandrine GRUDA
  FRA
  (194-C-87)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Gruda, FRA2.3 
 2. Popovic, MNT1.7 
 3. Marginean, ROM1.5 
 4. Kobryn, POL1.5 
 5. Veremeenko, BLR1.3 
 6. Khomenchuk, UKR1.3 
 7. Tamane, LAT1.0 
 8. Vajda, HUN1.0 
 9. Vynuchalova, SVK1.0 
 10. Halman, NED1.0 


*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA - Women  


Group E: Lithuania snatches victory over UK - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania win the game against Great Britain after incredible end of the match. Lithuanian players win 64:63 and they have a perfect record in the group E: 3 victories and no loses.

Great Britain has got much worse situation, They have only three loses. The game was very interesting, neither team was able to elaborate biggest advantage than 6 in the whole match. Although JulieAnne Page (188-F/C-83, college: E.Washington) 19 points and 7 rebounds Great Britain lost this game. Ausra Bimbaite (179-G-82) led her team to win this game scoring 16 points, Sandra Linkeviciene (176-G-82) added 14.

The game between Great Britain and Lithuania was not very intensive in the beginning. After 2 minutes of play and three points shot made by JulieAnne Page Great Britain was up by 1 - 5:4. Both team had been presenting strict defense, in the middle of the first quarter Lithuania was leading by 3 7:10. Great Britain was still down by few points and their coach Tom Maher called a timeout. Thanks to two free throws made by Johannah Leedham (180-G/F-87, college: Franklin Pierce) Great Britain lost first quarter only by one points 15:16. In the first three minutes of the first quarter we had some lead changes, teams are playing basket for basket. Then, Lithuania elaborate 4 point lead 24:26. 90 seconds of play later Great Britain tied the games and the score was 28:28. With 1:16 to play in the second quarter Great Britain had taken 2 point lead 32:30 and Lithuanian coach wanted to talk with his players. In the middle of the game on the board was the same score. The game was very aligned and everything could happen in the next two quarters .

After the brake Great Britain had been dominating the boards. British player were still leading. With 4:32 in the third Rima Valentiene (170-G-78)e hit the three for Lithuania and British coach Tom Maher automatically called a timeout. Then, Sandra Linkeviciene made 2+1 action and Lithuania get back on the lead. Few minutes late Great Britain regained the leading, after Johannah Leedham three point shot. The game was very aligned and neither team was able to keep leading for long time. Before the last quarter Great Britain had got 1 point advantage 49:48. Lithuania had got many problems with scoring points. With 8:48 to play Great Britain had got only one point of advantage, almost 2 minutes later British players were leading by 6 - 56:50. Lithuanian coach called a timeout after JulieAnne Page long distance shot, his players still had got 6 points disadvantage with 5:45 to play. Lithuania very slowly reduced the lost, but with 2:27 they had only 1 point of disadvantage 63:62. Then, We could watch almost two minutes without any points. With 44 seconds to play Egle Sulciute made two free throws and put Lithuania on point lead 63:64. 28 seconds later Sandra Linkeviciene missed two free throws, but Great Britain lost the ball and opportunity to win this game. On Saturday, Lithuania will play with Belarus. Great Britain has got a game against Turkey.

Great Britain - Lithuania 63:64 (15:16, 17:14, 17:18, 14:16)
Great Britain: JulieAnne Page 19, Johannah Leedham 14, Kimberly Butler (186-F-82, college: Oregon St.) 11
Lithuania: Ausra Bimbaitee 16, Sandra Linkeviciene 14, Egle Sulciute (190-F-85) 9

*BY LUKASZ LUKASZEWSKI

*****************************************************
  NEW ZEALAND - Women  


New Zealand narrowly defeat China in Yulin - by Eurobasket News
New Zealand Tall Ferns finally delivered victory in test games. They opened Yulin Four-Nations Friendly Tournament with over China. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87, college: Stanford) knocked down 18 points to pace Tall Ferns to an 83:82 victory. It was a close battle from start to finish. New Zealand and China were knotted up at 18 after ten minutes. China pulled in front for a 42:40 lead at halftime. But Tall Ferns turned things around in the third term. They surged ahead for a 60:59 lead with one quarter remaining. The teams traded baskets in the fourth frame with New Zealand able to hang on for the victory. Lisa Wallbutton (183-C/F-86) knocked down 17 points for the Kiwis. Kate McMeeken-Ruscoe (170-G-79, college: Buffalo) added 15 points in the victory. New Zealand will take on Australia, while China will face Brazil later tonight.



*****************************************************
  RUSSIA - Women  


Group E: Belarus beat Russia 62-51 - by Eurobasket News
This match was announced as game of the day. Russia lost the game against Belarus 51:62. Current situation in the group E: Belarus had got 2 wins and 1 lost. Russian record is
worse 1 win and 2 lost. Natalia Marchanka scored 11 points, Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) made a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds. In the Russian NT Maria Stepanova (203-C-79) ended the game with 12 points, Elena Danilochkina (185-G-86) scored 10 points.

Both teams: Russia and Belarus was very motivated to win this game. After three minutes of play Russia was up by 4. During this quarter, Russia had got a small advantage
between 2 and 4 points. Belarus cannot tied the game and Russia cannot to extend the advantage. Russian players were dominating on the boards and that was a reason of their advantage. Russia won the first quarter 10:14. We started the second quarter with the same situation. Belarus and Russia played very aligned game, but Russian was still leading this game. In the middle of the quarter Natalia Marchanka (170-G-79) scored 4 straight points and Belarus had taken the lead first time in this game. Then, Marina Kuzina (194-C-85) made a shot and Russia tied the game. Both teams were playing very good defense and we had ended the first half with very small score 24:25 for Russia.

After the brake Belarus had taken a lead, with 7:06 to play they had 6 points advantage. Russia reduced lost to 1 point. Then Belarus rebuilt the built after shots Yelena Leuchanka and Natalia Marchanka (186-F-79). Russian made some easy mistakes , Belorussian exploit it and scoring points. With 3:43 to play in the 3rd Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) scored another two points and Belarus had got 7 points advantage. Russian coach Boris Sokolovsky called timeout second in the third quarter ! Belarus still had been increasing their advantage. Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) made a lay-up with 1:04 to play in the third and Belarus had got 12 points lead. Before the last quarter Belarus was up by 10 50:40. Russia reduced lost to 7 points, but then Belarus scored 8 straight points. After Natalia Marchanka three point shot Belarus was up by 14 with 5:42 to play in the last quarter. Russian players cannot do anything to get back in this game. With 1:57 Russian coach called his last timeout. At that moment score was 60:49 for Belarus, Than Olga Arteshina (183-F-82) made a lay-up and the Belarusian coach called a timeout. With 1:13 to play Natalia Anufryienka made a lay-up for Belarus and she established the score. Belarus won the game against Russia 62:51.

Belarus - Russia 62:51 (10:14, 14:11, 26:15, 12:11)
Belarus: Natalia Marchanka 11, Yelena Leuchanka 10, Nataliya Trafimava (186-F-79) 9
Russia: Maria Stepanova 12, Elena Danilochkina 10, Ilona Korstin (183-G-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) 7

*BY LUKASZ LUKASZEWSKI

*****************************************************
  TURKEY - Women  


Group E: Czech Republic stays undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic beat Turkey 56:51 in the evening game in the group E on Bydgoszcz. Czech Republic is still undefeated on this tournament. They have a perfect record in the group E with 3 wins and no loses. Turkey is in much worse situation they have 3 loses and no wins. Katerina Elhotova (180-G-89) led her team to win another scoring 19 points. Also Veronika Bortelova showed a great performance scoring 14 points. Jana Vesela (192-F-83) added 12 points and 6 rebounds. Nevriye Yilmaz (194-C-80) and Nevriye Yilmaz scored 11 points for Turkey.

Czech Republic made a good start. After 3 minutes and 10 seconds Czechs were up by 6 1:7. Then Turkish team woke up. Turkey scored 5 straight points and Czechs coach
called a timeout. After 7 minutes of play Czech Republic was leading by 5 points 6:11. Turkey cannot make up for a loss, so after Katerina Elhotova shot Turkish coach called a
timeout. As always Czech Republic had been presenting great team work. After first quarter Czechs were up by 6 12:18. In the beginning of the second quarter both teams had
got problems with scoring points. Czech Republic had been controlling their advantage. Turkish was unable to reduce lost. With 3:30 to play in the second, after Veronika Bortelova (169-G-78) three point shot, Turkey was down by 10 points 16:26. Nevriye Yilmaz scored 6 straight points late in the second with no Czechs response. Thanks to it before the second half Turkey was down by 4.

Czech Republic started the third quarter with two free throws made by Veronika Bortelova. Turkey respond with two three pointers by Nevriye Yilmaz and tied the game !
Czech Republic had taken a lead again after Veronika Bortelova long distance shot. In this time both team cancelled each other. Spectators in Luczniczka could not see many points.
Then, thanks to 2+1 action by Nevin Nevlin (195-C-85, college: Stanford) Turkey tied the game second time in this quarter. After lay-up made by Nevin Nevlin in the last seconds of the third quarter Turkey had taken the lead first time in this game. Before the last quarter Turkey was leading by 1 37:36.

Czech Republic started the last quarter equally to third with points scored by Veronika Bortelova. She hit the three and Czech Republic get back on the lead. Then Jana Vesela
shot another three and Czech Republic was leading by 5 37:42 with 8:58 to play in the fourth quarter. Turkey reduced disadvantage to 1 point 41:42, but Czech Republic rebuilt
the lead to 4 points. With 2:50 to play Czech Republic was up by 5 and Turkish coach called a timeout. Although Turkish effort they were down 10 with 1:04 to play in the fourth
quarter. Turkey tried to get back in this game scoring 5 straight points, but when Katerina Elhotova made two free throws It was clear that Czech Republic would win this game.

Turkey - Czech Republic 51:56 (12:18, 10:8, 15:10, 14:20)
Turkey: Nevriye Yilmaz 11, Nevriye Yilmaz 11, Nevin Nevlin 7
Czech Republic: Katerina Elhotova 19, Veronika Bortelova 14, Jana Vesela 12

*BY LUKASZ LUKASZEWSKI

*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM - Women  


Group E: Lithuania snatches victory over UK - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania win the game against Great Britain after incredible end of the match. Lithuanian players win 64:63 and they have a perfect record in the group E: 3 victories and no loses.

Great Britain has got much worse situation, They have only three loses. The game was very interesting, neither team was able to elaborate biggest advantage than 6 in the whole match. Although JulieAnne Page (188-F/C-83, college: E.Washington) 19 points and 7 rebounds Great Britain lost this game. Ausra Bimbaite (179-G-82) led her team to win this game scoring 16 points, Sandra Linkeviciene (176-G-82) added 14.

The game between Great Britain and Lithuania was not very intensive in the beginning. After 2 minutes of play and three points shot made by JulieAnne Page Great Britain was up by 1 - 5:4. Both team had been presenting strict defense, in the middle of the first quarter Lithuania was leading by 3 7:10. Great Britain was still down by few points and their coach Tom Maher called a timeout. Thanks to two free throws made by Johannah Leedham (180-G/F-87, college: Franklin Pierce) Great Britain lost first quarter only by one points 15:16. In the first three minutes of the first quarter we had some lead changes, teams are playing basket for basket. Then, Lithuania elaborate 4 point lead 24:26. 90 seconds of play later Great Britain tied the games and the score was 28:28. With 1:16 to play in the second quarter Great Britain had taken 2 point lead 32:30 and Lithuanian coach wanted to talk with his players. In the middle of the game on the board was the same score. The game was very aligned and everything could happen in the next two quarters .

After the brake Great Britain had been dominating the boards. British player were still leading. With 4:32 in the third Rima Valentiene (170-G-78)e hit the three for Lithuania and British coach Tom Maher automatically called a timeout. Then, Sandra Linkeviciene made 2+1 action and Lithuania get back on the lead. Few minutes late Great Britain regained the leading, after Johannah Leedham three point shot. The game was very aligned and neither team was able to keep leading for long time. Before the last quarter Great Britain had got 1 point advantage 49:48. Lithuania had got many problems with scoring points. With 8:48 to play Great Britain had got only one point of advantage, almost 2 minutes later British players were leading by 6 - 56:50. Lithuanian coach called a timeout after JulieAnne Page long distance shot, his players still had got 6 points disadvantage with 5:45 to play. Lithuania very slowly reduced the lost, but with 2:27 they had only 1 point of disadvantage 63:62. Then, We could watch almost two minutes without any points. With 44 seconds to play Egle Sulciute made two free throws and put Lithuania on point lead 63:64. 28 seconds later Sandra Linkeviciene missed two free throws, but Great Britain lost the ball and opportunity to win this game. On Saturday, Lithuania will play with Belarus. Great Britain has got a game against Turkey.

Great Britain - Lithuania 63:64 (15:16, 17:14, 17:18, 14:16)
Great Britain: JulieAnne Page 19, Johannah Leedham 14, Kimberly Butler (186-F-82, college: Oregon St.) 11
Lithuania: Ausra Bimbaitee 16, Sandra Linkeviciene 14, Egle Sulciute (190-F-85) 9

*BY LUKASZ LUKASZEWSKI

*****************************************************
  USBA - Women  


WUSBA announce team home arena location's for 2011 fall basketball season - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga. (June 23, 2010) --- 'We are extremely pumped about this upcoming basketball season said,' WUSBA president, Duane Allen Jenkins. 'Our first season is set to go and our future in the world of basketball looks very bright.' The Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) today made public the final roster of teams, along with the teams home arena and gymnasiums. This new women's professional basketball league is scheduled to begin play on August 27, 2011. The league will field sixteen teams in four divisions. League sources states 'Timing is everything, particularly in business, the time is right to begin our inaugural basketball campaign.' The WUSBA originated in January 2010. The league was born out of an effort to expand womens professional basketball in the United States. The WUSBA was activated when the leagues brother company, the United States basketball Association (USBA) placed its inaugural season on hold. The USBA originally planned to place basketball teams in the Southeast United States. Jenkins made the decision to place efforts behind the activation of the WUSBA. The decision to postpone again the opening of the USBA was not an easy one to make, there are critics who will blast me for this decision, however after every forest fire, new life assuredly flourishes, said Jenkins. The WUSBA was always in our plans. In the United States and in Europe women play ball on the highest level and we are pleased with our decision to place our emphasis on their success.
The league will begin with sixteen teams in four divisions; the teams are spread out over eight southern states.

The Southern Division will house the Atlanta Platinum, the Birmingham Starz, Montgomery Spirit and the Macon Storm.

The Atlantic Division will field the Charleston Cadets, the Jacksonville Surf, the Richmond Colonials and the Savannah Seahawks.

The Appalachian Division will consist of the Knoxville Reign, the West Virginia Capitals and the Chattanooga Royal and the Nashville Thunder.

The Piedmont Division will send to court the Winston Salem Cardinals. The Charlotte Blue Wave, the Augusta Raging River and the Columbia Breeze

New cities and teams will be added periodically. The complete 2011 schedule will become available to the public on July 1, 2011.

Each team will play a 26 game regular season followed by the leagues championship tournament. The WUSBA local team tryouts will be held on August 13, 2011 in each team city. Location and time schedules for the tryouts will be made available in the very near future. 'I'm real comfortable in the leagues success,' said Jenkins. 'I feel we can make a real impact on the game of basketball and the local charitable organizations in each of our teams cities.' The league has ties with the United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots, Feeding America, Boys and Girls Club of America and local churchs. During previous holiday season's, the WUSBA enlisted the help of the Feeding America and the U.S.M.C. to conduct a series of basketball games to collect toys, clothing and food for the needy. According to reports filed, seven cities held games gave away prizes to fans that contributed toys, clothing and food. 'The WUSBA will make the same commitment to the communities and give them aid via the programs we created.' said Jenkins.

LEAGUE PERSONNEL
Executive Department:
Commissioner Mrs. Jeanne Hunter (Honorary)
President / C.E.O. Duane Allen Jenkins
Executive Vice President / Basketball Operations Kenneth Green
Director of Operations Regina Eubanks
Director of League Personnel Terry Truax
Director of Player Personnel Melanie Oliver
Director of Player Personnel Stanecia Graham
Director of Administration Elyria Skyill
Director of Marketing Duane Allen Jenkins
Director of Human Resources Clare Irving
Director of Media Relations (TBA) -
Supervisor of Officials Simmie Lavender
Chief of Security (TBA)
Director of Community Affairs (TBA)
General Counsel- Jackie Paterson ESQ
Accounting- Floyd Green and Associate
Web Master- Joey Johnson

Piedmont Division

Augusta Raging River
Richmond Academy High School
Richmond Academy Field House (2500)
2500 Walton Way
Augusta, Georgia 30904

Charlotte Blue Wave
Lifepointe Christian Church
Bobcat Practice Facility (3300)
13209 Carowinds Blvd
Charlotte, North Carolina 28273

Columbia Breeze
Benedict College
HRC Arena (2300)

1600 Hardin Street
Columbia, South Carolina 28204

Winston Salem Cardinals
Winston Salem State University
C.E Gaines Center (3500)
601 South Martin Luther King Jr. Drive
Winston Salem, North Carolina 27110

_______________________________

Southern Division

Atlanta Platinum
Norcross High School
NHS Gymnasium (2500)
5505 Spalding Drive
Norcross, Georgia 30092

Macon Storm
Southwest High School
SHS Gymnasium (2200)
12101 Sycamore Station Place
Macon, Georgia

Birmingham Starz
George Washington Carver High School
Carver Gymnasium (2700)
3900 24th Street North
Birmingham, Alabama 35207

Montgomery Spirit
Alabama State University
ASU ACCA Dome (5000)
915 South Jackson Street
Montgomery, Alabama 34104

_______________________________

Appalachian Division

Chattanooga Royal
Tennessee Temple University
McGillivray Gymnasium (2500)
1815 Union Avenue
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37404

Knoxville Reign
Farragut High School
FHS Gymnasium (2900)
11237 Kingston Pike
Knoxville, Tennessee 37934

Nashville Thunder
Glen Cliff High School
GCHS Gymnasium (2800)
160 Antioch Pike
Nashville, Tennessee 37211

West Virginia Capitals
Capital High School
CHS Gymnasium (2500)
1500 Greenbrier Street
Charleston, West Virginia 25311

_________________________________





Atlantic Division

Savannah Seahawks
Sol Johnson High School
Johnson Gymnasium (2200)
3012 Sun Set Blvd.
Savannah, Georgia 31214

Richmond Colonial
Virginia State University
Daniel Gymnasium (3700)
1 Hayden Drive
Petersburg, Virginia 23806

Jacksonville Surf
Edward Waters College
Adams-Jenkins Sports Center (2300)
1658 Kings Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32209

Charleston Cadets
College of Charleston
Carolina 1st Arena (3500)
66 George Street
Charleston, South Carolina 29424

(This is a list of all WUSBA tentative and confirmed home team gymnasiums. Players and agents can contact the Head Coach directly with inquires. All locations have given their permission to secure the gymnasium. Agreements of Usage are in place. Final contracts are pending and have preliminary approval from each location. Each Client Arena has a confidentially agreement and is not at liberty to disclose certain contents of any agreements made with the Womens United States Basketball Association without written permission of the WUSBA and the Client Arena).





*****************************************************
  WNBA - Women  


Storm's Lauren Jackson to undergo more tests - by Eurobasket News
Storm center Lauren Jackson will undergo more tests Thursday after evaluations on her strained left hip were inconclusive Wednesday.

The three-time MVP suffered the injury in the opening half of a win at Tulsa on Tuesday. Jackson, who is 6 feet 6, said she locked legs with fellow Australian Liz Cambage, who's 6-8.

Neither fell to the ground, but Jackson felt she heard 'a pop' and was removed with 5:50 remaining in the second quarter. She admitted to having a cortisone shot in the area before the trip due to previous pain.

Jackson and Storm coach Brian Agler didn't want to speculate about the injury.

She was able to walk but was in pain. Jackson was unavailable for comment on Wednesday and the team didn't practice after traveling from a two-game trip.

Courtesy of http://seattletimes.nwsource.com

Knee surgery to sideline Sky point guard Canty - by Eurobasket News
The Chicago Sky will lose an important part of their bench as guard Dominique Canty (5'9''-G/F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Alabama) will be out at least three weeks after having arthroscopic surgery on her left knee, the team announced Thursday.

It is unfortunate we will lose Dominique for a period of time, Sky coach Pokey Chatman said in a statement. She is a valuable leader on the court, and our younger, more inexperienced players will need to mature quickly for us to compete against the best of the Eastern Conference.

In six games this season, Canty, a 13-year veteran, averaged 3.3 points per game in 12.7 minutes.

The Sky play Connecticut on Thursday at Allstate Arena.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com