EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/27/2011

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*****************************************************
  ARGENTINA   


Brazil open win count in Panevezys - by Eurobasket News
Brazil U19 - Argentina U19 77:71

Brazil recorded their first win at the 2011 Global Games international tournament in Panevezys, Lithuania. They held off Argentinean counterparts to climb at 1-1 record. Raul Neto (184-G-92) stepped up with 18 points to lead the winners. Argentina in the meantime suffered the second straight loss.
Brazil and Argentina stayed neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. They were tied at 20 after ten minutes of action. Argentina surged ahead early in the second frame. They arrived at the interval up by seven point 42:35. But Brazil gradually turned things around in the third quarter. Jose Neto team erased the deficit to level things up at 58 with one quarter remaining. Brazil opened the fourth period on a 10:1 run to clear off. Argentina failed to recover and had to surrender at the end. Cristiano Felicio (206-C-92) produced 15 points, while Bruno Irigoyen (190-G/F-92) added 11 points in the victory. Franco Giorgetti (200-F-92) answered with 21 points and 9 rebounds for Argentina. Marcos Delia (207-C-92) finished with 16 points in the loss.

Brazil U19: Raul Neto 18, Cristiano Felicio 15, Bruno Irigoyen 11
Argentina U19: Franco Giorgetti 21, Marcos Delia 16


Facundo Pinero extends with Quilmes - by Eurobasket News
Quilmes have agreed on terms of contract extension with Facundo Pinero (201-F-88). The 22-year-old forward will enter his fifth straight season with Mar del Plata team. Last season Facundo Pinero averaged 7.8 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game. Facundo Pinero used to play for Argentinean U17, U18 and U19 selections.


Sergio Hernandez renews contract with Penarol - by Eurobasket News
Sergio Hernandez renewed his contract with Penarol Mar del Plata. The 47-year-old specialist will spend the next two seasons at helm. Sergio Hernandez took over Penarol back in 2007. He was named Latinbasket.com All-Argentinean LigaA Coach of the Year in 2010. He won LigaA Championship in 2011 and Liga Americas in 2008. Sergio Hernandez worked with Argentinean U16 National Team in 2005/06 seasons. In 2005 the specialist also took the reins in Argentinean National Team. He guided Argentina at Olympic Games in Beijing and at 2010 World Championships in Turkey. Sergio Hernandez worked with Sport Club de Canada de Gomez, Deportivo Roca Rio Negro, Regatas San Nicolas, Estudiantes Olavarria and Boca Juniors Capital Feder before joining Penarol. He was named Argentinean League Best Coach in 1993, 2001 and 2002.


*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA   


Lithuania prevail against Australia in Panevezys - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U19 - Australia U19 80:70

Lithuanian U19 National Team celebrated the second straight win at the 2011 Global Games. The hosts held off Australian counterparts to improve at 2-0 record. Zygimantas Skucas (200-F-92) stepped up with 18 points and 6 rebounds to pace the winners. The Emus slipped at 1-1 record after the loss.
Lithuania ensured a quick start. They unloaded 26 points in the opening quarter to take an 11-point lead. But the Emus changed the complexion of the encounter in the second period. They slowed down the hosts and narrowed the deficit at 7-point mark at halftime 42:35. Lithuania increased the tempo in the third term. Once again aggressive offence helped Lithuania boost the margin to 16 points with one quarter remaining. Australia fought bravely in the final period but still came up short of victory at the end. Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) and Vytenis Cizauskas (190-G-92) provided 14 points each for Lithuania. Mitchell Creek (198-F/G-92) responded with 22 points for the Emus. Hugh Greenwood (190-PG-92) added 14 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.

Lithuania U19: Zygimantas Skucas 18, Dovydas Redikas 14, Vytenis Cizauskas 14
Australia U19: Mitchell Creek 22, Hugh Greenwood 14



Standings - ABA
ABA Standings
Big V
 1. Waverley F. 11-3 
 2. Eltham W. 10-4 
 3. Ringwood H. 9-6 
 4. Sherbrooke S. 9-7 
 5. Bulleen B. 8-7 
 6. Hume City 6-9 
 7. Melbourne 4-12 
 8. Diamond V.E. 3-12 
Central ABL
 1. Norwood F. 8-2 
 2. W.Adelaide B. 8-3 
 3. Forestville E. 8-3 
 4. Sturt S. 6-5 
 5. S.Adelaide P. 6-5 
 6. N.Adelaide R. 6-5 
 7. Woodville W. 5-6 
 8. Eastern M. 4-7 
 9. South.Tigers 2-9 
 10. C.District L. 1-9 
QBL
 1. Gold Coast R. 9-1 
 2. Townsville H. 8-2 
 3. Northside W. 7-4 
 4. Brisbane C. 7-4 
 5. Cairns M. 7-4 
 6. Mackay M. 6-3 
 7. Rockhampton 6-3 
 8. Ipswich F. 5-4 
 9. Bundaberg B. 4-6 
 10. Gladstone P. 4-6 
 11. Maroochydore 2-7 
 12. Caboolture S. 2-8 
 13. Toowoomba 1-8 
 14. SW Metro P. 1-9 
SEABL-East
 1. Bendigo B. 14-2 
 2. Knox R. 11-5 
 3. Ballarat M. 8-7 
 4. Kilsyth C. 8-9 
 5. Canberra G. 7-8 
 6. Dandenong 7-8 
 7. Brisbane S. 6-9 
SEABL-South
 1. Nunawading S. 13-4 
 2. Geelong S. 10-5 
 3. Sandringham S. 10-6 
 4. Mt Gambier 7-9 
 5. Hobart C. 7-10 
 6. NW Tasmania 5-11 
 7. Frankston B. 4-10 
 8. Albury W.B. 1-15 
WARATAH
 1. Sydney C. 12-3 
 2. Newcastle H. 11-3 
 3. Hills H. 9-6 
 4. Parramatta W. 8-4 
 5. Norths Bears 8-6 
 6. Sutherland S. 7-6 
 7. Manly Warr. 7-7 
 8. Maitland M. 7-8 
 9. Illawarra H. 6-6 
 10. Bankstown B. 6-9 
 11. Hornsby S. 6-9 
 12. Cent.Coast C. 4-11 
 13. Canberra N. 1-14 


Standings - SBL
SBL Standings
 1. Lakeside L. 18-2 
 2. Wanneroo W. 16-5 
 3. Cockburn C. 14-7 
 4. Perry Lakes H. 13-7 
 5. Willetton T. 12-9 
 6. East Perth E. 11-9 
 7. Stirling S. 11-10 
 8. Goldfield G. 10-11 
 9. Perth R. 10-11 
 10. Kalamunda E.S. 9-10 
 11. Mandurah M. 7-13 
 12. Geraldton B. 7-14 
 13. Rockingham F. 6-15 
 14. AIS 0-0 
 15. SW Slammers 0-21 


SBL: Red-hot Roberts sees Stirling defeat Giants - by Eurobasket News
The ATD Stirling Senators fought off a spirited revival from Skilled Goldfields Giants for a 103-92 win at Warwick Leisure Centre.

Lee Roberts was outstanding for the Senators with 27 points and 19 rebounds, well supported by Michael Jones (27 points and nine rebounds) and Geordie Cullen (210-C-78, college: High Point) with 12 points off the bench.

For the Giants it was Captain Matthew Leske (196-F-82) leading from the front with 22 points and Darnell Dialls (203-F/C-86) worked hard all evening for 21 points and 12 rebounds until he was fouled out in the last quarter.

Both sides were desperate to break three-game losing streaks and stay in touch with the top eight, and it was the visitors that took an early lead.

Roberts had the upper hand in his duel with Goldfields big-man Dialls as the Senators scored nine consecutive points to open up a seven-point lead midway through the opening term.

The 203cm Roberts had double-double by quarter-time with 11 points and 10 rebounds as Stirling took a 24-15 lead into the break.

The Giants were beginning to make comeback in the second term, but were halted as Jones was unstoppable from the three-point line.

Tensions rose on court after a heated exchange between Geordie Cullen and Dwayne Radcliffe which could be looked at closely during the week.

A thrilling buzzer-beater from Dialls bridged the gap to just five-points at half-time and brought the crowd to its feet.

The third quarter was an arm wrestle with neither side making their mark until a three-pointer from Leske followed by a free-throw got his side within three points, the closest they had been since the opening term.

The Giants hopes of a come-from-behind victory took a massive blow as Stirling flexed their muscles, scoring 14 straight points on their way to a commanding 81-66 lead at the final change.

The visitors fought hard in the last quarter to get as close as six points, but it was too little too late as Stirling posted a nine-point win.

The Senators are now back in the top eight following their 10th win of the season, while Goldfields slid down to 10th place.

Article by Jordan McArdle at Warwick Recreation Centre
Courtesy of: SBL



SBL: Lightning strike yet again - by Eurobasket News
Lakeside Lightning has extended its incredible men's State Basketball League run with a 93-86 victory against fellow top four side Cockburn Cougars on Saturday.

The Lightning have won 10-straight games and are two wins clear at the top of the league, despite having a game in hand, after their comfortable triumph against the Cougars.

Last year's runner-up became just the second team this season to beat Cockburn at Wally Hagan Stadium and victory was primarily sparked by Lightning imports Luke Payne and Ben Beran.

Payne led the visitors with 30 points while Beran (23 points) was the only other Lakeside player to reach double figures in scoring. Jarrad Prue (199-C-82) was also outstanding, finishing with 21 rebounds.

The game shaped as a top-of-the-table clash as Cockburn sat in second heading into the round, but its loss to East Perth on Friday saw it slip to third, where it finished the round after also losing to Lakeside.

And the Cougars look almost certain to miss the top two after Wanneroo's two round 15 victories saw it move two wins clear of Cockburn in second spot.

In a game where the Cougars shot 41 per cent from the field, which was seven per cent higher than Lakeside, while also matching the Lightning's rebound total at 52, outscoring the visitors in the paint 36-32 and winning the second chance points category 15-3, free-throw shooting was a huge difference-maker.

Lakeside got to the line nine extra times and made it count, making 27 of its 33 attempts, while Cockburn struggled to a 67 per cent rate (16 of 24).

The Cougars were 11 points down after just six minutes but fought back to cut the margin to six at quarter-time. They kept it close until Lakeside went on a 18-5 run late in the second to see it lead by 18 at the main break.

The lead blew out to 24 at one point in the third but the Cougars rallied and cut the deficit to six with 2:37 left in the game, but the Lightning held off the fight-back.

Ty Harrelson (193-G-80, college: Wayland Baptist) starred for Cockburn with 30 points, while fellow import Stanley Ocitti (203-F/C-80, college: Binghamton) (19 points and 13 rebounds) also impressed.

The men's win capped off a perfect night for Lakeside, which also stunned Cockburn with a 70-60 win in the women's game.

The Lightning jumped out to a 14-point half-time lead and held off a late comeback to win their third-straight game, which was enough to see them finish the round one game clear of struggling Perth for the final top eight spot.

Emily Fielding and Courtney Bayliss played important roles for the Lightning with 21 and 16 points respectively as their side's superior free-throw shooting proved the difference.

Emma Pass led the sixth-placed Cougars with 17 points in her side's third loss from its past four games.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL

*****************************************************
  AUSTRIA   


Germany U20 celebrated the second straight win in Oberwart - by Eurobasket News
Austria U20-Germany U20 66:88

Germany U20 celebrated the second straight win in Oberwart International Tournament with 4 teams participating. In Day 2 the German side won over the hosts 88:66.
Germany opened the game with 14-2, but Austria reduced to 20:16 at the end of the first period. Moreover the hosts came to 20:19 opening the second frame, while Germany answered with 15-0 run for 46:26. In the third period Germany continued to dominate the court and added 23-17 for 63:49 after three quarters. Austria won the last period 25-17 to cut the deficit in the game.
Dennis Ogbe (200-F-91) stepped up with 16 points for the winners, while Daniel Theis (207-C-92) and Niels Giffey (200-G/F-91) netted 13 each. Romed Vieider (196-F-91)er replied with 11 points in the losing effort. Claudio Vancura (180-PG-92) notched 10, while Thomas Klepeisz (187-G-91) and Lukas Linzer (191-G-91) followed them with 6 apiece.

Austria U20: Romed Vieiderer 11, Claudio Vancura 10, Thomas Klepeisz 6, Lukas Linzer 6
Germany U20: Dennis Ogbe 16, Daniel Theis 13, Niels Giffey 13



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


Belgian U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Belgian U20 National Team 2011
#s#
Thibaut Boxus
Boxus
Alexander Byttebier
Byttebier
Thomas De Thaey
De Thaey
Dennis Donkor
Donkor
Romain Fassotte
Fassotte
#e#5
Thibaut Boxus 91 Liege II Belgium
Alexander Byttebier 91
Thomas De Thaey 203-F-91 Canarias Bball Ac. Spain
Terry Deroover 180-G-91 Kangar.-Boom Belgium
Dennis Donkor 194-G/F-91 Antwerp Belgium
Romain Fassotte 91 Liege II Belgium
Pierre-Antoine Gillet 202-F-91 Liege Belgium
Anthony Goetgeluck 180-G-92
Amaury Gorgemans 208-C-92 M.Hainaut Belgium
Brett Hartshorne 201-C/F-92 Kangar.-Boom Belgium
Moise Kamenga 196-C-92
Elias Lasisi 192-G/F-92 Kangar.-Boom Belgium
Amaury Marion 195-F-91 Fleurus Belgium
Obasohan Ojomoh 183-F/G-93 Kangar.-Boom Belgium
Maarten Rademakers 205-C/F-91 Antwerp Belgium
Loic Schwartz 198-G-92 M.Hainaut Belgium



*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   


Brazil open win count in Panevezys - by Eurobasket News
Brazil U19 - Argentina U19 77:71

Brazil recorded their first win at the 2011 Global Games international tournament in Panevezys, Lithuania. They held off Argentinean counterparts to climb at 1-1 record. Raul Neto (184-G-92) stepped up with 18 points to lead the winners. Argentina in the meantime suffered the second straight loss.
Brazil and Argentina stayed neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. They were tied at 20 after ten minutes of action. Argentina surged ahead early in the second frame. They arrived at the interval up by seven point 42:35. But Brazil gradually turned things around in the third quarter. Jose Neto team erased the deficit to level things up at 58 with one quarter remaining. Brazil opened the fourth period on a 10:1 run to clear off. Argentina failed to recover and had to surrender at the end. Cristiano Felicio (206-C-92) produced 15 points, while Bruno Irigoyen (190-G/F-92) added 11 points in the victory. Franco Giorgetti (200-F-92) answered with 21 points and 9 rebounds for Argentina. Marcos Delia (207-C-92) finished with 16 points in the loss.

Brazil U19: Raul Neto 18, Cristiano Felicio 15, Bruno Irigoyen 11
Argentina U19: Franco Giorgetti 21, Marcos Delia 16


*****************************************************
  BULGARIA   


Greece wrap up Douai campaign with win over Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News
Greece U18 - Bulgaria U18 69:62

Greek U18 National Team registered the second win at the Douai Tournament in France. They held off Bulgaria to finish at 2-3 record. Apollon Deligeorgis (192-G-93) notched 16 points and 7 rebounds in the victory.
Greece posted a 17:15 lead after ten minutes. The Hellenes maintained the lead throughout the second period. They established a 37:29 halftime advantage. Bulgaria cut the deficit in the third quarter. They got as close as three points at the final break 42:45. But Greece quickly restored a double-digit advantage in the fourth frame. They kept Bulgaria at safe distance and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Emmanouil-Antonios Tselentakis (195-F-93) accounted for 13 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis (200-F-94) added 8 points in the victory. Dimitar Dimitrov (203-F-93) and Tencho Tenchev (203-F-93) responded with 16 points each for Bulgaria. Velislav Galabov (205-C-94) accounted for 11 points in defeat.

Greece U18: Apollon Deligeorgis 16, Emmanouil-Antonios Tselentakis 13, Giannoulis Larentzakis 8
Bulgaria U18: Dimitar Dimitrov 16+11 boards, Tencho Tenchev 16


Bulgaria U20 and FYR Macedonia U20 exchange victories - by Eurobasket News
Bulgaria U20 and FYR Macedonia U20 exchange victories in Blagoevgrad. In Day 1 Bulgaria celebrated an easy 101:70 win. Trailing 21-22 after the first period, the hosts erupted with 25-10 in the second frame for 46:32 halftime advantage. Moreover Bulgaria added 23-22 in the third period and reached three digits after 32-16 in the last quarter. Planimir Dafinov and Stanislav Tsonkov (191-G-91) stepped up with 12 points each, while Todor Zahariev and Ilhan Arabadjiev (194-F-91) netted 11 apiece. Lazar Petrov (209-C-91) and Dimitar Delipetrov (200-C-92) ended up with 10 points each in defeat.
In Day 2 FYR Macedonia U20 grabbed 78:77 win. They again took the lead after the first period and enjoyed 21-14 and then had 36:31 halftime advantage. Bulgaria erupted with 23-7 in the third period, while FYR Macedonia U20 won the game due to 25-14 in the last period. Apostoli Apostolov (183-G-91) and Dzaner Osman poured in 18 points each, while Marjan Todorov added 11. Stanislav Tsonkov replied with 19 points in defeat, while Lachezar Radev (205-C-91) collected 15 points and 12 boards.


*****************************************************
  CANADA   


Barbosa to stick with Raptors - by Eurobasket News
It appears Leandrinho Barbosa (6'3''-PG-82) will not be heading back to Brazil after all.

Toronto Raptors general manager Bryan Colangelo told QMI Agency Saturday afternoon that Barbosa has picked up his $7.6 million U.S. player option for the 2011-2012 season. Barbosa beat a midnight deadline to make a call.

There had been speculation Barbosa would play in his native Brazil since a looming lockout threatens to wipe out the NBA season.

This would have given the Raptors a huge boost in cap space.

Both sides have also expressed interest in renegotiating Barbosa's contract into a longer deal.

Courtesy of www.torontosun.com

Latvia edge Canada at 2011 Global Games tournament - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U19 - Canada U19 79:61

Latvian U19 selection overcame their Canadian counterparts in the opening game of 2011 Global Games tournament in Lithuania for both teams. Kaspars Vecvagars (191-G-93) and Arturs Bremers (187-G-92) stepped up with 12 points each to pace well-balanced effort from Latvia.
Latvia stormed into this one. They erupted for 30 points in the starting quarter to take a 9-point lead. Canada stopped the rot in the second term. They held their opponents to 11 points to cut the deficit at 3-point mark. But Latvia went off the dressing room firing from all guns. They outscored the North American side for a 61:48 lead heading into the fourth frame. Latvia did not slow down in the final minutes and rallied to the victory. Janis Timma (201-F/G-92) and Davis Bertans (200-F-92) nailed 11 points apiece in the victory. Dyshawn Pierre (196-F-93) responded with 13 points and game-high 10 rebounds for Canada. Julian Clarke (190-G) produced 12 points in the loss.

Latvia U19: Kaspars Vecvagars 12, Arturs Bremers 12, Janis Timma 11, Davis Bertans 11
Canada U19: Dyshawn Pierre 13+10 boards, Julian Clarke 12


*****************************************************
  CHINA   


China Loses to Australia 62-57 - by Arthur Volbert
China lost to Australia 62=57 in a contest played in Singapore. Zhou Peng (207-F-89) led China with 22 points and 6 rebounds.

Liu Wei sat out the game with an injury and Wang Zhizhi did not play either. Wang Shipeng had 7 points and 4 rebounds but hit only 2 of 7 shots. Yi Li had 8 points and 3 rebounds and looks like he will be a part of the rotation. Zhu Fangyu had 2 points in 23 minutes and appears to be fading as an international competitor. Ding Jinhui had 6 points but fouled out in 16 minutes. Sun Yue had 7 rebounds in 33 minutes but hit only 1 of 7 shots and committed 5 turnovers to only 1 assist. Su Wei had 4 points and 5 rebounds while Yu Shulong had 4 points and 3 rebounds. Zhang Bo had 2 points in 18 minutes.

This game appeared to be much more to try out young players for the final spots on the roster while Friday's game was much more playing to win.

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


France rally past Croatia in Douai - by Eurobasket News
France U18 - Croatia U18 88:38

French U18 National Team posted the fourth victory at Douai tournament. They thumped Croatia to finish in the second position at 4-1 record. Jean-Charles Livio (204-F/C-93) and Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) provided 12 points each for the winners. Croatia slipped at 1-4 record after the loss.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening period. Les Bleus posted a 21:16 lead after ten minutes. Faroux opened a double-digit lead midway through the second term 30:18. The hosts arrived at halftime up by as many as 27 points 49:22. The margin just kept on growing in the third quarter. France piled up a 67:35 lead with one quarter remaining. Croatia managed just three points in the fourth term and had to surrender at the end. Ulysse Adjagba (185-PG-93) provided 11 points in the winning effort. Josip Mikulic (210-F-93) responded with 11 points for Croatia. Matej Buovac (198-F/G-93) dropped 9 points in the loss.

France U18: Jean-Charles Livio 12, Mouhammadou Jaiteh 12, Ulysse Adjagba 11
Croatia U18: Josip Mikulic 11, Matej Buovac 9


*****************************************************
  CYPRUS   


New transfer for Intercollege Etha - by Michael Aristidou
Cyprus champions and cup holders InterCollege Etha Engomis had sign Shawn Ray (194-F-80, agency: Court Side, college: N.C.Central) for next season. The American who played in Austria last years is one of the best defenders in Austrian Bundesliga. He was named defensive player of the year in 2006 and was in All-defensive team in 2009 and 2010.
In other news Cytavision Apoel Nicosia sigh American Jerome Beasley (209-F-80, college: N.Dakota). The player is the fisrt non Cypriot to the team for this year in Cytavision Apoel Nicosia.


*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


LNB SET TO START SOON! - by Oscar Peralta
LNB which is projected to be Dominican Republic new top league is set to start soon. The date is set for july 12 and teams are getting ready stacking there rosters as much as they can to try and claim the crown. we will have updated rosters as soon as they are available. It is said that the league will be at its best this year in competition and fans cant wait to see how there teams turn out for opening day.

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


Panathinaikos did not renew with Bogris - by Giorgos Diploidis
Panathinaikos Athens had the clause to renew their contract with Giorgos Bogris (209-C/F-89) for two more years but they did not. Bogris did not satisfied Zeljko Obradovic the two years that he was a member of the team of Athens.

Bogris now is at the camp of Chicago Bulls where he was informed about the decision of his ex-team. However he will not have a problem to find a new club, he is very talented and a lot of teams will express their interest for him.

Martynas Pocius stays in Zalgiris - by Eurobasket News
Zalgiris and Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) extended their cooperation for another season. The guard joined the Kaunas powerhouse back in 2009 straight out of Duke. Last season Martynas Pocius tallied 10.7 points, 2.1 boards and 2.1 assists per game in LKL. In Euroleague his stats read 10.9 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists. In Baltic League Pocius averaged 8.3 points and 3.3 rebounds per appearance. The guard also posted 12.0 points, 2.0 assists and 1.2 boards per game in VTB-League. Martynas Pocius made it into Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LKL 1st Team. He was also named into Eurobasket.com VTB-League All-Europeans Team. Martynas Pocius played for Lithuania at 2010 World Championship. His stats read 9.6 points, 2.6 boards and 1.6 assists per game in Turkey.


*****************************************************
  FIBA AMERICAS U16   


U16 USA blasts U16 Argentina 104-64, wins the Gold in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
USA - ARGENTINA 104-64

USA won the Gold at the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. They smashed Argentina 104-64 in the Big Final to take the first place. The Silver medal belongs to Argentina. It is important to mention that both teams booked a ticket for the next FIBA U17 World Championship. Aaron Gordon (96) shined in USA with 24 points and 15 rebounds. Jahlil Okafor-Benton (96) also was great adding 18 points and 14 boards. Jabari Parker (95) had 14 pts and 7 rebounds, while Justin Jackson (95) added 13 pts to this victory. In Argentina, Alvaro Merlo (170-G-95) delivered 14 pts. Gabriel Deck (195-F-95) had 10 points and 9 boards.
USA started the game strongly making 30-17 lead in the first ten minutes. Nothing has changed after that as USA created 24-13 in the second period for plus 24 at the HT. It was already clear who will take the Gold at this event and second half was just the formality (24-21, 26-13).
USA was the winner of Group B in Cancun with perfect 3-0. They eliminated Canada in the Semis.

USA: Aaron Gordon 24+15 boards, Jahlil Okafor-Benton 18+14 boards, Jabari Parker 14+7 boards, Justin Jackson 13
Argentina: Alvaro Merlo 14, Gabriel Deck 10+9 boards

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


Benjamin Monclar will continue with Antibes - by Eurobasket News
Benjamin Monclar (190-G-88) will continue with Antibes for the next season. The French Guard will return from JDA Dijon Bourgogne where he spent his whole career.
In 2005-2006 Benjamin started for JDA Dijon Bourgogne - U21 team and in 2008-2009 debuted in ProA with 6 games. In
2009-2010 for JDA Dijon Bourgogne (ProA, starting five) after 25 games he improved to 4.4ppg, 1.4rpg. The last season there after 39 games his stats read 4.0ppg, 1.4rpg.
Last season Benjamin Monclar recorded 20 points at the Regular Season Round 11. At that time St Vallier was defeated by Dijon 88-79. It was a great evening for Benjamin Monclar who top-scored for the team with 20 points as he made 6 out of six three-pointers! American power forward Erroyl Bing added 13 points and 8 rebounds. Guard David Melody helped adding 12 points and 6 assists, while Cameroonian power forward Brice Vounang responded with 21 points and 9 rebounds and American guard Kyle Shiloh (191-85, college: Nevada) scored 20 points and 7 rebounds.



France rally past Croatia in Douai - by Eurobasket News
France U18 - Croatia U18 88:38

French U18 National Team posted the fourth victory at Douai tournament. They thumped Croatia to finish in the second position at 4-1 record. Jean-Charles Livio (204-F/C-93) and Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) provided 12 points each for the winners. Croatia slipped at 1-4 record after the loss.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening period. Les Bleus posted a 21:16 lead after ten minutes. Faroux opened a double-digit lead midway through the second term 30:18. The hosts arrived at halftime up by as many as 27 points 49:22. The margin just kept on growing in the third quarter. France piled up a 67:35 lead with one quarter remaining. Croatia managed just three points in the fourth term and had to surrender at the end. Ulysse Adjagba (185-PG-93) provided 11 points in the winning effort. Josip Mikulic (210-F-93) responded with 11 points for Croatia. Matej Buovac (198-F/G-93) dropped 9 points in the loss.

France U18: Jean-Charles Livio 12, Mouhammadou Jaiteh 12, Ulysse Adjagba 11
Croatia U18: Josip Mikulic 11, Matej Buovac 9


*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


Bulgaria U20 and FYR Macedonia U20 exchange victories - by Eurobasket News
Bulgaria U20 and FYR Macedonia U20 exchange victories in Blagoevgrad. In Day 1 Bulgaria celebrated an easy 101:70 win. Trailing 21-22 after the first period, the hosts erupted with 25-10 in the second frame for 46:32 halftime advantage. Moreover Bulgaria added 23-22 in the third period and reached three digits after 32-16 in the last quarter. Planimir Dafinov and Stanislav Tsonkov (191-G-91) stepped up with 12 points each, while Todor Zahariev and Ilhan Arabadjiev (194-F-91) netted 11 apiece. Lazar Petrov (209-C-91) and Dimitar Delipetrov (200-C-92) ended up with 10 points each in defeat.
In Day 2 FYR Macedonia U20 grabbed 78:77 win. They again took the lead after the first period and enjoyed 21-14 and then had 36:31 halftime advantage. Bulgaria erupted with 23-7 in the third period, while FYR Macedonia U20 won the game due to 25-14 in the last period. Apostoli Apostolov (183-G-91) and Dzaner Osman poured in 18 points each, while Marjan Todorov added 11. Stanislav Tsonkov replied with 19 points in defeat, while Lachezar Radev (205-C-91) collected 15 points and 12 boards.


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


Turkey edge Germany to clinch title in Douai - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Germany U18 54:46

Turkey recorded the fifth straight win at the Douai international tournament. They held off Germany to clinch the top position. Germany slipped at 2-3 record after the defeat.
Turkey led from the start and built an 18:15 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second frame. Turkish team arrived at halftime up by 9 points 31:22. Anselm Hartmann (190-G-93) narrowed the gap at just two points midway through the third frame. Turkey hung on to eke out a 41:38 lead with one quarter remaining. Germany eventually levelled things up at 46 late in regulation. But Ugur Dokuyan (197-F-93) and Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) provided five points in a row to put Turkey back in charge. Kenan Sipahi (192-G-95) followed with another treble and Turkey rolled to the victory at the end. Ugur Dokuyan and Ramazan Tekin nailed 10 points each for Turkey. Kenan Sipahi added 8 points in the victory. Anselm Hartmann answered with 18 points for Germany. Paul Zipser (195-G-94) contributed 12 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.

Turkey U18: Ugur Dokuyan 10, Ramazan Tekin 10, Kenan Sipahi 8
Germany U18: Anselm Hartmann 18, Paul Zipser 12


Germany U20 celebrated the second straight win in Oberwart - by Eurobasket News
Austria U20-Germany U20 66:88

Germany U20 celebrated the second straight win in Oberwart International Tournament with 4 teams participating. In Day 2 the German side won over the hosts 88:66.
Germany opened the game with 14-2, but Austria reduced to 20:16 at the end of the first period. Moreover the hosts came to 20:19 opening the second frame, while Germany answered with 15-0 run for 46:26. In the third period Germany continued to dominate the court and added 23-17 for 63:49 after three quarters. Austria won the last period 25-17 to cut the deficit in the game.
Dennis Ogbe (200-F-91) stepped up with 16 points for the winners, while Daniel Theis (207-C-92) and Niels Giffey (200-G/F-91) netted 13 each. Romed Vieider (196-F-91)er replied with 11 points in the losing effort. Claudio Vancura (180-PG-92) notched 10, while Thomas Klepeisz (187-G-91) and Lukas Linzer (191-G-91) followed them with 6 apiece.

Austria U20: Romed Vieiderer 11, Claudio Vancura 10, Thomas Klepeisz 6, Lukas Linzer 6
Germany U20: Dennis Ogbe 16, Daniel Theis 13, Niels Giffey 13



Dashaun Wood (Deutsche Bank Skyliners) Needs A Suitcase For His 2011 Eurobasket Awards - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

In October 2010 as training camp was almost over and the season was about to start, the beko BBL was ready for names like Derrick Allen, Julius Jenkins or a Casey Jacobsen to steal headlines and dominate the league like they have for years, but no one really had the name DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) in their heads as some one to carry his team the way he did all season long except for maybe Gordon Herbert or Kamil Novak. Wood dominated the 2011 Eurobasket awards winning Player of the year, guard of the year, import player of the year and first team. It didnt really matter who he played against, he dominated most of the time playing EuroCup Qualifying Round: 2 games: 13.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 5.0apg; EuroChallenge: 6 games: 16.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 5.2apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 73.7%; German League: 42 games: Score-1 (19.0ppg), 4.6rpg, Assists-2 (5.9apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 80.3%.

Wood who is a 25 year old 185cm guard and hails from Detriot, Michigan came to Frankfurt as a big question mark having missed the entire 2009-2010 season as he had to sit out the season due to injury. Wood was given a short term contract as security for Frankfurt to see if he would be fully recovered. He didnt impress in training camp, but as time went on, he found his rhythm more and more. He had a tough outing against the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf scoring only 4 points in thes econd game of the season and a few weeks later only 8 points against the Artland Dragons, but even on nights where he wasnt scorng, he helped the team with his playmaking. After the 8 point outing against Quackenbruck, he went nearly 6 months scoring in double figurers in 23 consecutive games. In 42 beko BBL games, he went only 4 games without scoring in double figurers. He tore up Alba Berlin for 32 and 30 points and destroyed The Walter TIgers Tuebingen for 34 points. He scored 20 or more points 18 times. You could call Wood t the beko BBL highlight film, becuase in every game, he scored in ways that will be plastered in minds for a long time. He scored some beautiful bombs, but what stood out most with Wood was his lightening speed to the hoop. He was almost always unstoppable and even against three defendrs, he found ways to score falling to his right or left. Calling him a ball hog is unjust, because even if he might not be a pass first point guard, he showed his playmaking qualities time in and time out again as he was second in assists behind Bane Ratkovica. He dished out 12 assists against Ratiopharm Ulm and BG Goettingen. His penetration and quick feeds to Quantez Robertson flying to the hoop will remain unforgetable or his ally-op passes to Roger Powell. One cant debate that guys like Pascal Roller,Chris Williams and Tyrone Ellis were big factors in getting the Skyliners the 2004 beko BBL title, but one also shouldnt debate that DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) is the most dominant player that Frankfurt has ever seen. Wood has a contract for next season in Frankfurt with certain clauses. The chances of Wood lacing up his seakers in training camp in the BCM in August have risen with new sponser Fraport, but the head coach question with Gordon Herbert is still unresolved. If Herbert stays, then Wood should be a sho in to continue to do damage next season in the beko BBL. However Wood will play NBA Summer league for the Miami Heat soon. It is no secret that his dream is the NBA. He saw first hand how 181cm guard Jose Barea not only won an NBA title with the Dallas Mavericks, but also made NBA defenses look silly with his breathtaking speed. Wood is fast and totally focused on getting to the NBA stage and will have his two wins with Wright State over Jose Barea with Northeastern on his mind as he makes like a road runner getting to the rim and showing that there is room for smaller guards in the NBA.

Quinnel Brown in the bag for Cuxhaven - by Moritz Korff
The Cuxhaven BasCats have completed their third import player signing of the summer. Quinnel Brown (198-G/F-83, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Auburn) has agreed to a deal with the Pro A side. He has been named the Premier Basketball League Most Valuable Player for the 2011 season. The 27-year-old Chicago, Ill. native had averaged 20.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists and close to 2 steals per contest for the Quebec Kebs.
Brown graduated from Auburn University (NCAA1) in 2005 and took his game to Northern Europe for the following season. After a short stint in Finland he moved on to the Sundsvall Dragons of Sweden. Later in his career he also competed in the ABA, IBL, returned to both Sweden and Finland and played shortly for Benetton Fribourg Olympic of Switzerland in 2010. His personal list of accolades include an appearance in the 2006 Swedish Allstar Game, a run to the Korisliiga Finals with Joensuun Kataja in 2009, Eurobasket.com All-Korisliiga Honorable Mention and recent All-PBL Player of the Year honors.

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  GREECE   


Panathinaikos did not renew with Bogris - by Giorgos Diploidis
Panathinaikos Athens had the clause to renew their contract with Giorgos Bogris (209-C/F-89) for two more years but they did not. Bogris did not satisfied Zeljko Obradovic the two years that he was a member of the team of Athens.

Bogris now is at the camp of Chicago Bulls where he was informed about the decision of his ex-team. However he will not have a problem to find a new club, he is very talented and a lot of teams will express their interest for him.

Greece wrap up Douai campaign with win over Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News
Greece U18 - Bulgaria U18 69:62

Greek U18 National Team registered the second win at the Douai Tournament in France. They held off Bulgaria to finish at 2-3 record. Apollon Deligeorgis (192-G-93) notched 16 points and 7 rebounds in the victory.
Greece posted a 17:15 lead after ten minutes. The Hellenes maintained the lead throughout the second period. They established a 37:29 halftime advantage. Bulgaria cut the deficit in the third quarter. They got as close as three points at the final break 42:45. But Greece quickly restored a double-digit advantage in the fourth frame. They kept Bulgaria at safe distance and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Emmanouil-Antonios Tselentakis (195-F-93) accounted for 13 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis (200-F-94) added 8 points in the victory. Dimitar Dimitrov (203-F-93) and Tencho Tenchev (203-F-93) responded with 16 points each for Bulgaria. Velislav Galabov (205-C-94) accounted for 11 points in defeat.

Greece U18: Apollon Deligeorgis 16, Emmanouil-Antonios Tselentakis 13, Giannoulis Larentzakis 8
Bulgaria U18: Dimitar Dimitrov 16+11 boards, Tencho Tenchev 16


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  HUNGARY   


Hanga in on his way to San Antonio - by Tamas Deri
The drafted hungarian guard, Adam Hanga (201-G-89, agency: TSS Management) just took the flight early this morning over New York City to San Antonio as the management of the NBA team invited him for a couple of days after he got drafted on thursday night in the 2nd round in the 2011 NBA Draft. He will visit all the buildings used by the club and will attend also on some practices lead by the coaching stuff of the Spurs. He will fly home on next thursday! Eurobasket Hungary wishes you good luck and enjoy your time with the Spurs!



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  IBL   


Standings
IBL Standings
Continental Division
 1. Bellingham S. 14-5 
 2. Vancouver V. 12-6 
 3. W.C. Hotshots 8-9 
 4. Olympia R. 5-12 
 5. L.Angeles L. 0-1 
 6. USA All-Stars 0-18 
International Division
 1. Edmonton E. 13-5 
 2. Albany L. 13-5 
 3. Kankakee S. 12-7 
 4. Gary Splash 12-7 
 5. Oregon W. 9-9 
Branding Team
 1. Dayton A. 4-0 
 2. Lansing C. 3-5 
 3. Las Vegas P. 0-1 
 4. Phoenix R. 0-3 
 5. Lake Co. 0-5 
 6. Ohio H.G. 0-7 


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  INDONESIA   


Philippines beat Indonesia in SEABA Championship Final - by Eurobasket News
Philippines - Indonesia 89:50

Philippines claimed the SEABA Championship title tonight. They toppled hosting Indonesia for the trophy. It is the eighth title for Philippines at the tournament. Andy Mark Barroca (198-F/C-88) stepped up with 17 points to pace the effort.
Philippines opened the game with eleven points in a row. They maintained the lead and arrived at the first break up by as many as 21 points 31:10. Indonesia showed character as they outscored their opponents in the second period. Indonesia cut the deficit at 19-point mark at halftime 27:46. But the third term once again belonged to Philippines fully. They dominated every facet of the game and recorded a 67:35 advantage at the final intermission. Philippines did not slow down in the fourth quarter and rallied to a comprehensive win at the end. Marcus Eugene Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) delivered 16 points and 7 rebounds, while Christopher John Tiu (178-PG-85) added 13 points for the winning side. Rony Gunawan (193-F/C-80) answered with 14 points for Indonesia. Faisal Julius Ahmad (180-G-81) had 12 points in defeat.

Philippines: Andy Mark Barroca 17, Marcus Eugene Douthit 16, Christopher John Tiu 13
Indonesia: Rony Gunawan 14, Faisal Julius Ahmad 12


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  IRAN   


Iran wins West Asia Basketball Championship - by Eurobasket News
Iran wins West Asia Basketball Championship as the team won all three games at the tournament. Iran finished undefeated after 93:52 win over Iraq in the last day. The favorites opened the game with 29-12 and never looked behind. Iraq meanwhile finished with 0-3 record and could not qualify to the 26th FIBA Asia Championship. Only three top teams joined Lebanon as WABA representatives in the 26th FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Wuhan (China) from Sept 15-25.



*****************************************************
  IRAQ   


Iran wins West Asia Basketball Championship - by Eurobasket News
Iran wins West Asia Basketball Championship as the team won all three games at the tournament. Iran finished undefeated after 93:52 win over Iraq in the last day. The favorites opened the game with 29-12 and never looked behind. Iraq meanwhile finished with 0-3 record and could not qualify to the 26th FIBA Asia Championship. Only three top teams joined Lebanon as WABA representatives in the 26th FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Wuhan (China) from Sept 15-25.



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  ISRAEL   


Maccabi Haifa keep Tyler Wilkerson - by Eurobasket News
Maccabi Haifa ensured the services of Tyler Wilkerson (202-F-88, college: Marshall) for two more seasons. The sides have agreed on terms of contract extension. Tyler Wilkerson started the previous season Galil Gilboa. The forward tallied 11.6 points and 6.4 boards per game in Premier League. In EuroCup Tyler Wikerson delivered 10.7 points and 5.0 boards per appearance. In March the forward moved to Maccabi Haifa. His stats read 13.6 points, 5.3 boards and 1.0 assist in Premier League.


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  ITALY   


Brescia signs Leemire Goldwire - by Eurobasket News
Leemire Goldwire (180-G-84, agency: Interperformances, college: Charlotte) is a new member Brescia Leonessa. The American point guard signed a deal for the next season. He arrives to Brescia from Forli, where he finished 2010/11. He appeared 16 times in Lega Due averaging 19.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.9 steals. Goldwire started last season with the NBA D-League team Sioux Falls Skyforce. He registered 13.7 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 4.1 apg for 12 games. Season 2009/10, Goldwire also spent with the Skyforce.
His first season as a pro Leemire Goldwire split between Greek Egaleo and Bulgarian Lukoil. With the Greeks he had 12.2 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 2.2 apg for 5 games, after what he moved to Lukoil. He helped Lukoil win the championship title in Bulgaria. For 19 games Goldwire had 11.5 ppg, 4 rpg, 2.5 apg and 1.7 spg. He also added 4 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 3 EuroCup games.

Varese tab Samuli Vanttaja - by Eurobasket News
Cimberio Varese landed Finnish prospect. They have agreed on terms of contract with Samuli Vanttaja (210-F/C-91). The 20-year-old centre spent the last season with Honka. He tallied 4.1 points and 2.5 rebounds per game in Korisliiga. In VTB-League Samuli Vanttaja notched 3.1 points and 2.6 rebounds per appearance.


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  JORDAN   


Jordan beat Syria for the second place in WABA - by Eurobasket News
Jordan finished second at the West Asia Basketball Championship due to the win in the last day. Jordan edged Syria 92:75 to grab 2-1 record on the second place, while Syria finished third with 1-2 record. The winners started with 22-19 in the first frame and added 23-13 in the second. Syria won the third period but could not come closer. Both teams as well as Iran joined Lebanon as WABA representatives in the 26th FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Wuhan (China) from Sept 15-25.


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  LATVIA   


Latvia edge Canada at 2011 Global Games tournament - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U19 - Canada U19 79:61

Latvian U19 selection overcame their Canadian counterparts in the opening game of 2011 Global Games tournament in Lithuania for both teams. Kaspars Vecvagars (191-G-93) and Arturs Bremers (187-G-92) stepped up with 12 points each to pace well-balanced effort from Latvia.
Latvia stormed into this one. They erupted for 30 points in the starting quarter to take a 9-point lead. Canada stopped the rot in the second term. They held their opponents to 11 points to cut the deficit at 3-point mark. But Latvia went off the dressing room firing from all guns. They outscored the North American side for a 61:48 lead heading into the fourth frame. Latvia did not slow down in the final minutes and rallied to the victory. Janis Timma (201-F/G-92) and Davis Bertans (200-F-92) nailed 11 points apiece in the victory. Dyshawn Pierre (196-F-93) responded with 13 points and game-high 10 rebounds for Canada. Julian Clarke (190-G) produced 12 points in the loss.

Latvia U19: Kaspars Vecvagars 12, Arturs Bremers 12, Janis Timma 11, Davis Bertans 11
Canada U19: Dyshawn Pierre 13+10 boards, Julian Clarke 12


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  LITHUANIA   


Martynas Pocius stays in Zalgiris - by Eurobasket News
Zalgiris and Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) extended their cooperation for another season. The guard joined the Kaunas powerhouse back in 2009 straight out of Duke. Last season Martynas Pocius tallied 10.7 points, 2.1 boards and 2.1 assists per game in LKL. In Euroleague his stats read 10.9 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists. In Baltic League Pocius averaged 8.3 points and 3.3 rebounds per appearance. The guard also posted 12.0 points, 2.0 assists and 1.2 boards per game in VTB-League. Martynas Pocius made it into Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LKL 1st Team. He was also named into Eurobasket.com VTB-League All-Europeans Team. Martynas Pocius played for Lithuania at 2010 World Championship. His stats read 9.6 points, 2.6 boards and 1.6 assists per game in Turkey.


Lithuania prevail against Australia in Panevezys - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U19 - Australia U19 80:70

Lithuanian U19 National Team celebrated the second straight win at the 2011 Global Games. The hosts held off Australian counterparts to improve at 2-0 record. Zygimantas Skucas (200-F-92) stepped up with 18 points and 6 rebounds to pace the winners. The Emus slipped at 1-1 record after the loss.
Lithuania ensured a quick start. They unloaded 26 points in the opening quarter to take an 11-point lead. But the Emus changed the complexion of the encounter in the second period. They slowed down the hosts and narrowed the deficit at 7-point mark at halftime 42:35. Lithuania increased the tempo in the third term. Once again aggressive offence helped Lithuania boost the margin to 16 points with one quarter remaining. Australia fought bravely in the final period but still came up short of victory at the end. Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) and Vytenis Cizauskas (190-G-92) provided 14 points each for Lithuania. Mitchell Creek (198-F/G-92) responded with 22 points for the Emus. Hugh Greenwood (190-PG-92) added 14 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.

Lithuania U19: Zygimantas Skucas 18, Dovydas Redikas 14, Vytenis Cizauskas 14
Australia U19: Mitchell Creek 22, Hugh Greenwood 14



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


Vasilije Micic and Nenad Miljenovic lead U18 Serbia to win against U18 Montenegro 67-55 - by Eurobasket News
Friendly game: U18 Serbia - U18 Montenegro 67-55

U18 Serbia and U18 Montenegro met in a friendly game, which was held last night in Novi Becej. Serbia celebrated 67-55 win thanks to nice played second half. Vasilije Micic (192-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) and Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) were the leading players in victory with 12 points each. Nemanja Bezbradica (205-F/C-93) followed them with 11. In the loosing squad, Marko Mugosa (197-F-93) shined with 25 points. Milos Pajovic (204-C-94) had 9 and Vukota Pavic (94) stopped to 7 points. Serbia won all four quarters in this game. They started with 20-18 in the first ten minutes and continued with 13-12 until the halftime. Serbia was better in Q3 as well and they jumped to plus six before the last ten minutes. Everything was still open, but Vasilije Micic and his teammates shined in the last period (17-11) for the final 67-55 victory. Two teams will meet again on Sunday.

Serbia: Vasilije Micic 12, Nenad Miljenovic 12, Nemanja Bezbradica 11
Montenegro: Marko Mugosa 25, Milos Pajovic 9, Vukota Pavic 7

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


Krzyzewski denies report Wolves contacted him - by Eurobasket
Mike Krzyzewski has rejected NBA overtures from the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers since he became Duke's men's basketball coach in 1980.

On Saturday night, he said the Minnesota Timberwolves won't be luring him away either.

While a published report said the Timberwolves were interested in hiring Krzyzewski as they were moving to fire coach Kurt Rambis last week, the coach said through a school spokesman that it was a non-starter.

Duke spokesman Matt Plizga said he spoke with Krzyzewski Saturday night and the coach said 'no one had contacted him and he hadn't contacted anyone' about the Minnesota job.

Barbosa to stick with Raptors - by Eurobasket News
It appears Leandrinho Barbosa (6'3''-PG-82) will not be heading back to Brazil after all.

Toronto Raptors general manager Bryan Colangelo told QMI Agency Saturday afternoon that Barbosa has picked up his $7.6 million U.S. player option for the 2011-2012 season. Barbosa beat a midnight deadline to make a call.

There had been speculation Barbosa would play in his native Brazil since a looming lockout threatens to wipe out the NBA season.

This would have given the Raptors a huge boost in cap space.

Both sides have also expressed interest in renegotiating Barbosa's contract into a longer deal.

Courtesy of www.torontosun.com

NBA Draft Review - by Alex Yam
The 2011 NBA Draft, has come and gone. Many people, experts or not feel like this was one of the weakest drafts in recent memory even as far as comparing it to the 2000 NBA draft. When in actuality, this draft just lacks a superstar, a for sure thing. Other then that, it was one deep with talent, such that players like David Lighty, from OSU an Ben Hansburough were overlooked.

The international players will be remembered, such as high flyer Jan Vesely, or talented big man Jonas Valanciunas, or the defensive beast, Bismack Biyombo. Certainly, the trades that happened were interesting, as a couple of point guards with contrasting styles switched teams, in Raymond Felton and Andre Miller, San Antonio sent popular George Hill back to his hometown of Indiana, where they grabbed versatile big man Kawhi Leonard from SDSU. Often disgruntled Rudy Fernandez was dealt to the reigning world champs, the Dallas Mavericks.

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


U16 USA blasts U16 Argentina 104-64, wins the Gold in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
USA - ARGENTINA 104-64

USA won the Gold at the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. They smashed Argentina 104-64 in the Big Final to take the first place. The Silver medal belongs to Argentina. It is important to mention that both teams booked a ticket for the next FIBA U17 World Championship. Aaron Gordon (96) shined in USA with 24 points and 15 rebounds. Jahlil Okafor-Benton (96) also was great adding 18 points and 14 boards. Jabari Parker (95) had 14 pts and 7 rebounds, while Justin Jackson (95) added 13 pts to this victory. In Argentina, Alvaro Merlo (170-G-95) delivered 14 pts. Gabriel Deck (195-F-95) had 10 points and 9 boards.
USA started the game strongly making 30-17 lead in the first ten minutes. Nothing has changed after that as USA created 24-13 in the second period for plus 24 at the HT. It was already clear who will take the Gold at this event and second half was just the formality (24-21, 26-13).
USA was the winner of Group B in Cancun with perfect 3-0. They eliminated Canada in the Semis.

USA: Aaron Gordon 24+15 boards, Jahlil Okafor-Benton 18+14 boards, Jabari Parker 14+7 boards, Justin Jackson 13
Argentina: Alvaro Merlo 14, Gabriel Deck 10+9 boards

Krzyzewski denies report Wolves contacted him - by Eurobasket
Mike Krzyzewski has rejected NBA overtures from the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers since he became Duke's men's basketball coach in 1980.

On Saturday night, he said the Minnesota Timberwolves won't be luring him away either.

While a published report said the Timberwolves were interested in hiring Krzyzewski as they were moving to fire coach Kurt Rambis last week, the coach said through a school spokesman that it was a non-starter.

Duke spokesman Matt Plizga said he spoke with Krzyzewski Saturday night and the coach said 'no one had contacted him and he hadn't contacted anyone' about the Minnesota job.

*****************************************************
  NEW ZEALAND   


Best players of New Zealand NBL round 11 - by Eurobasket News
Lindsay Tait (194-G-82, agency: Impact Basketball) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Wellington S. and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 11.
The 28-year old guard got a double-double of 21 points and eleven assists, while his team beat Manawatu J. (#6, 6-8) 114-102. It allowed Wellington S. to jump to the first place in the British NBL. Wellington S. have a solid 12-2 record. In the team's last game Tait had a remarkable 85.7% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Wellington S., being already a very valuable addition to the team. Tait has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in assists (3rd best: 6.0apg) and averages solid 55.7% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old American guard Scott O'Gallagher (188-G-84) of OceanaGold N.. O'Gallagher impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 27 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as OceanaGold N. lost that game 80-88 to slightly higher-ranked Auckland P. (#7, 4-9). OceanaGold N. are still at the very bottom. 12 lost games are too many comparing to just two victories OceanaGold N. managed to get this year. O'Gallagher is one of the most experienced players at OceanaGold N. and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was American Chris Hagan (175-G-89) of Manawatu J. (#6). Hagan got into 30-points club by scoring 32 points in the last round. He went also for nine assists. He was a key player of Manawatu J., leading his team to a 99-78 easy win against slightly higher-ranked Nelson G. (#4, 7-7). The chances of Manawatu J. ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 8 games, recording just six victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Hagan could help Manawatu J. to bring them higher in the standings. Hagan has a great season in New Zealand. After only 5 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 4.2apg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Alex Pledger (216-C-87) of Waikato P. - 16 points and 18 rebounds
5. Mika Vukona (197-F-82) of Nelson G. - 20 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Paora Winitana (195-G-76) of Bay Hawks - 24 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Phill Jones (196-G-74) of Nelson G. - 23 points and 4 rebounds
8. Mika Vukona (197-F-82) of Nelson G. - 13 points, 18 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Nick Horvath (208-F/C-81) of Manawatu J. - 22 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Dillon Boucher (196-F-75) of Auckland P. - 11 points, 10 rebounds and 4 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)

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


Smart-Gilas Pilipinas Runs Away with the 2011 SEABA Crown!!! - by Enzo Flojo
Philippines 89 - Andy Mark Barroca (198-F/C-88) 17, Douthit 16, Tiu 13, Baracael 12, Aguilar 9, Lutz 7, Ababou 6, Casio 5, Ballesteros 4
Indonesia 50 - Gunawan 14, Faisal 12, Prawiro 11, Poedjakesuma 4, Indrawan 4, Prihantono 3, Sitepu 2, Dewanto 0, Chandra 0, Wuysang 0, Thoyib 0, Situmorang 0
QS: 31-10, 46-27, 67-35, 89-50

- There was no surprise here as the Pinoys dominated from start to finish.
- Andy Mark Barroca was hot, shooting 6-of-8 from the field and a perfect 4-of-4 from the line, en route to 17 points. Naturalized center Marcus Eugene Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) scored 16 markers and grabbed 7 boards as a solid inside presence.
- Rony Gunawan led the home team with 14 points and 6 boards, but shot just 6-of-15 from the field.
- The Filipinos were better in most stat categories -- outshooting and out-rebounding the Indons, and committing less TOs too.

Source: HoopNut.blogspot.com


Philippines beat Indonesia in SEABA Championship Final - by Eurobasket News
Philippines - Indonesia 89:50

Philippines claimed the SEABA Championship title tonight. They toppled hosting Indonesia for the trophy. It is the eighth title for Philippines at the tournament. Andy Mark Barroca (198-F/C-88) stepped up with 17 points to pace the effort.
Philippines opened the game with eleven points in a row. They maintained the lead and arrived at the first break up by as many as 21 points 31:10. Indonesia showed character as they outscored their opponents in the second period. Indonesia cut the deficit at 19-point mark at halftime 27:46. But the third term once again belonged to Philippines fully. They dominated every facet of the game and recorded a 67:35 advantage at the final intermission. Philippines did not slow down in the fourth quarter and rallied to a comprehensive win at the end. Marcus Eugene Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) delivered 16 points and 7 rebounds, while Christopher John Tiu (178-PG-85) added 13 points for the winning side. Rony Gunawan (193-F/C-80) answered with 14 points for Indonesia. Faisal Julius Ahmad (180-G-81) had 12 points in defeat.

Philippines: Andy Mark Barroca 17, Marcus Eugene Douthit 16, Christopher John Tiu 13
Indonesia: Rony Gunawan 14, Faisal Julius Ahmad 12


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


Slovenia edged Poland in Austria - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U20-Poland U20 80:76

Slovenia U20 reached the second win at the Oberwart International Tournament with 4 teams participating. The team edged Poland U20 80:76 and will face Germany U20 in the Final.
After the win over Austria in Day 1, Slovenia had a better start with Polish team as well. The winners had 21-17 after the first period and then improved to 40:30 halftime advantage. The intrigue was not over in the game as Poland made a comeback to reduce to 55:51 after thirty minutes. Both teams scored the same number of points in the last period that allowed Slovenia to remain undefeated in the tournament.
Klemen Prepelic (190-G-92) erupted with 28 points to lead the charge. Marko Pajic (204-F-92) posted 12, while Alen Omic (213-C-92) scored 11. Jakub Parzenski (209-F/C-91) ended up with 19 points in the losing effort as Poland dropped at 0-2. Szymanski netted 10 and Hubert Wierzbicki (196-F-91, agency: Promotex) delivered 8 points.

Slovenia U20: Klemen Prepelic 28, Marko Pajic 12, Alen Omic 11
Poland U20: Jakub Parzenski 19, Szymanski 10, Hubert Wierzbicki 8



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


Quebradillas sign scorer P.J. Tucker - by Eurobasket News
P.J. Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) is a new member of Quebradillas. The American forward signed a deal for rest of the BSN season. He already made his debut with Quebradillas collecting 19 points and 13 rebounds in 78-77 thriller win against San German. Quebradillas grabbed 1-0 lead in the Quarterfinals.
P.J. Tucker arrives to Quebradillas from the Italian team Fabi Shoes Montegranaro, where he finished season 2010/11. He had 12.3 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 3.3 rpg and 2.7 spg for them in 3 SerieA games. Tucker joined Montegranaro in May from Aris Thessaloniki. With Aris he exploded with 15.9 ppg, 8 rpg, 1.7 apg and 1.1 spg in 14 EuroCup games. He also added 11.5 ppg, 7.1 rpg and 1.9 apg for 19 games in Greece. In the past, Tucker also played for Bnei Hasharon, Donetsk, Hapoel Holon and Toronto Raptors. With the Raptors on season 2006/07 Tucker had 1.8 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 17 NBA games.

Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Peter John RAMOS
  Quebradillas
  (222-C-85)
  Avg: 23.4
 1. Ramos, Quebradillas23.4 
 2. Vassallo, Guaynabo23.4 
 3. Johnson, Humacao21.2 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon21.2 
 5. Villegas, Coamo19.4 
 6. Romero, Mayaguez18.6 
 7. Galindo, Isabela18.5 
 8. Ayuso, Arecibo18.4 
 9. Randolph, Isabela18.0 
 10. Harris, San German17.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mike HARRIS
  San German
  (198-F-83)
  Avg: 12.5
 1. Harris, San German12.5 
 2. Randolph, Isabela12.3 
 3. Narvaez, Coamo12.0 
 4. Pruitt, Guaynabo11.6 
 5. Ramos, Quebradillas10.6 
 6. Lloreda, San G.10.0 
 7. Romero, Mayaguez9.7 
 8. Sweetney, Santurce9.6 
 9. Clemente, Mayaguez9.1 
 10. Rickert, Bayamon9.1 
Assists Per Game
 Kevin HAMILTON
  Mayaguez
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 7.7
 1. Hamilton, Mayaguez7.7 
 2. Brown, Quebradillas5.9 
 3. Dalmau, Bayamon5.8 
 4. Rivera, San German5.8 
 5. Guzman, Guaynabo4.8 
 6. Clinch, Isabela4.5 
 7. Clemente, Humacao4.5 
 8. Rivera, Mayaguez4.2 
 9. Apodaca, Quebradil.4.1 
 10. Bruton, Quebradil.4.1 
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. Hodge, Santurce1.4 
 5. Santiago, Santurce1.4 
 6. Mojica, Bayamon1.3 
 7. Pinnock, Arecibo1.3 
 8. Chaney, Santurce1.3 
 9. Hamilton, Mayaguez1.3 
 10. Diaz, Arecibo1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Kleon PENN
  Humacao
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Penn, Humacao2.6 
 2. Santiago, Arecibo2.1 
 3. Traylor, Bayamon2.0 
 4. 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. Sweetney, Santur.1.1 


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


Maksim Sheleketo and Lionel Chalmers extend with Lokomotiv Kuban - by Eurobasket News
Lokomotiv Kuban kept Maksim Sheleketo (204-F-87) in the roster. The sides have agreed on terms of contract extension for one season. The forward joined Lokomotiv back in 2008. Last season Maksim Sheleketo averaged 4.1 points and 1.9 rebounds per EuroChallenge game. In PBL his stats read 4.2 points and 3.1 rebounds per appearance. Maksim Sheleketo used to play for U16, U18 and U20 Russian National Teams.
Lokomotiv also kept Lionel Chalmers (184-G-80, college: Xavier). The 30-year-old guard joined the team at the start of the previous season. Lionel Chalmers tallied 13.6 points, 2.4 assists, 2.2 boards and 1.1 steals per game in EuroChallenge. In PBL his stats read 13.7 points, 3.4 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 1.1 steals per appearance. Lionel Chalmers earned Eurobasket.com All-EuroChallenge Honourable Mention.

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


Philippines clinch title in Jakarta - by Eurobasket News
Indonesia - Philippines 50-89
Philippines claimed the SEABA Championship title tonight. They toppled hosting Indonesia for the trophy. It is the eighth title for Philippines at the tournament. Andy Mark Barroca (198-F/C-88) stepped up with 17 points to pace the effort. Philippines opened the game with eleven points in a row. They maintained the lead and arrived at the first break up by as many as 21 points 31:10. Indonesia showed character as they outscored their opponents in the second period. Indonesia cut the deficit at 19-point mark at halftime 27:46. But the third term once again belonged to Philippines fully. They dominated every facet of the game and recorded a 67:35 advantage at the final intermission. Philippines did not slow down in the fourth quarter and rallied to a comprehensive win at the end. Marcus Eugene Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) delivered 16 points and 7 rebounds, while Christopher John Tiu (178-PG-85) added 13 points for the winning side. Rony Gunawan (193-F/C-80) answered with 14 points for Indonesia. Faisal Julius Ahmad (180-G-81) had 12 points in defeat.



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


Vasilije Micic and Nenad Miljenovic lead U18 Serbia to win against U18 Montenegro 67-55 - by Eurobasket News
Friendly game: U18 Serbia - U18 Montenegro 67-55

U18 Serbia and U18 Montenegro met in a friendly game, which was held last night in Novi Becej. Serbia celebrated 67-55 win thanks to nice played second half. Vasilije Micic (192-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) and Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) were the leading players in victory with 12 points each. Nemanja Bezbradica (205-F/C-93) followed them with 11. In the loosing squad, Marko Mugosa (197-F-93) shined with 25 points. Milos Pajovic (204-C-94) had 9 and Vukota Pavic (94) stopped to 7 points. Serbia won all four quarters in this game. They started with 20-18 in the first ten minutes and continued with 13-12 until the halftime. Serbia was better in Q3 as well and they jumped to plus six before the last ten minutes. Everything was still open, but Vasilije Micic and his teammates shined in the last period (17-11) for the final 67-55 victory. Two teams will meet again on Sunday.

Serbia: Vasilije Micic 12, Nenad Miljenovic 12, Nemanja Bezbradica 11
Montenegro: Marko Mugosa 25, Milos Pajovic 9, Vukota Pavic 7

*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA   


Slovenia edged Poland in Austria - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U20-Poland U20 80:76

Slovenia U20 reached the second win at the Oberwart International Tournament with 4 teams participating. The team edged Poland U20 80:76 and will face Germany U20 in the Final.
After the win over Austria in Day 1, Slovenia had a better start with Polish team as well. The winners had 21-17 after the first period and then improved to 40:30 halftime advantage. The intrigue was not over in the game as Poland made a comeback to reduce to 55:51 after thirty minutes. Both teams scored the same number of points in the last period that allowed Slovenia to remain undefeated in the tournament.
Klemen Prepelic (190-G-92) erupted with 28 points to lead the charge. Marko Pajic (204-F-92) posted 12, while Alen Omic (213-C-92) scored 11. Jakub Parzenski (209-F/C-91) ended up with 19 points in the losing effort as Poland dropped at 0-2. Szymanski netted 10 and Hubert Wierzbicki (196-F-91, agency: Promotex) delivered 8 points.

Slovenia U20: Klemen Prepelic 28, Marko Pajic 12, Alen Omic 11
Poland U20: Jakub Parzenski 19, Szymanski 10, Hubert Wierzbicki 8



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


Malaga is targeting Gelabale - by
Malaga is targeting Mickael Gelabale (201-F-83) for the next season. The French Forward may appear for the Spanish squad in 2011/2012 season.
In the middle of his career in 2006-2007 Mickael Gelabale signed a $802,000 deal with Seattle Supersonics (NBA) and after 70 games averaged 4.6ppg, 2.5rpg. In 2007-2008 for Seattle Supersonics (NBA) he had 4.3ppg, 1.5rpg. In 2008-2009 started for Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA): only pre-season, in March '09 moved to Los Angeles D-Fenders (D-League) and in 6 games averaged 16.0ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg. In 2009-2010 for Los Angeles Lakers (NBA) started only pre-season, in Nov.'09 moved to Cholet Basket (ProA, starting five) and in French League after 28 games averaged 10.9ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 42.0%, FT: 85.7%. In 2010-2011 joined ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket (ProA, starting five) and in French League after 36 games his stats read 14.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 85.3%, while in EuroCup Mickael Gelabale showed 12.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 57.1%, FT: 88.2%.
Mickael Gelabale erupted with 28 points at the Semi-Finals Game 1 when Nancy came from behind to tame ASVEL at home court. ASVEL was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 33-13 third quarter run of Sluc Nancy. They dominated down low during the game scoring 74 of its points in the paint compared to ASVEL's 46 and made 20-of-24 charity shots (83.3 percent) during the game. The former international forward Mickael Mickael Gelabale came up with 28 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his nine free throws !!!).



Spanish U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Spanish U20 National Team 2011
#s#
Josep Franch
Franch
Victor Arteaga
Arteaga
Francisco Guerra
Guerra
Jose Maria Gil
Gil
Miguel Lorenzo
Lorenzo
#e#5
Josep Franch 194-PG-91 DKV Joventut Spain
Malick Fall 211-C-92 Clinicas Rincon Spain
Victor Arteaga 209-C/F-92 Real Madrid Spain
Francisco Guerra 212-C-92 Estudiantes II Spain
Jose Maria Gil 207-C/F-91 Real Madrid II Spain
Miguel Lorenzo 205-C/F-91 Clinicas Rincon Spain
Nacho Llovet 202-C-91 Prat Juventud Spain
Nikola Mirotic 209-F/C-91 Real Madrid Spain
Joan Tomas 201-F-92 DKV Joventut Spain
Borja Arevalo 193-G-91 Knet Rioja Spain
Alberto Jodar 204-F/C-91 Real Madrid II Spain
Albert Ventura 196-F-92 DKV Joventut Spain
Alejandro Barrera 199-F-92 Prat Juventud Spain
Joan Sastre Morro 201-F-91 Cajasol Spain
Carles Marzo 190-PG-92 Regal Barca Spain
Jose Pozas 181-PG-92 Unicaja Spain
Jose Simeon 187-PG-91 Valencia Spain

Juan Antonio Orenga Head Coach
Jesus Sala Assistant Knet Rioja Spain
Joan Penarroya Assistant Andorra Spain


Marquez Haynes joins Gran Canaria - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria strengthened their backcourt. They have agreed on terms of contract with Marquez Haynes (191-G-86, college: Texas Arlington). The deal is meant for two seasons. The 24-year-old guard spent the last season in France. He tallied 14.3 points, 3.9 assists, 2.2 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game for Chalon in ProA. It was the first pro season for Marquez Haynes. The guard graduated the University of Texas at Arlington in 2010. Marquez Haynes was named All-Southland Conference Player of the Year the same season. He also made it into NABC Division I All-District 23 1st Team. Marquez Haynes helped Chalon to the French Cup title last season.


*****************************************************
  SYRIA   


Jordan beat Syria for the second place in WABA - by Eurobasket News
Jordan finished second at the West Asia Basketball Championship due to the win in the last day. Jordan edged Syria 92:75 to grab 2-1 record on the second place, while Syria finished third with 1-2 record. The winners started with 22-19 in the first frame and added 23-13 in the second. Syria won the third period but could not come closer. Both teams as well as Iran joined Lebanon as WABA representatives in the 26th FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Wuhan (China) from Sept 15-25.


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


Turkey edge Germany to clinch title in Douai - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Germany U18 54:46

Turkey recorded the fifth straight win at the Douai international tournament. They held off Germany to clinch the top position. Germany slipped at 2-3 record after the defeat.
Turkey led from the start and built an 18:15 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second frame. Turkish team arrived at halftime up by 9 points 31:22. Anselm Hartmann (190-G-93) narrowed the gap at just two points midway through the third frame. Turkey hung on to eke out a 41:38 lead with one quarter remaining. Germany eventually levelled things up at 46 late in regulation. But Ugur Dokuyan (197-F-93) and Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) provided five points in a row to put Turkey back in charge. Kenan Sipahi (192-G-95) followed with another treble and Turkey rolled to the victory at the end. Ugur Dokuyan and Ramazan Tekin nailed 10 points each for Turkey. Kenan Sipahi added 8 points in the victory. Anselm Hartmann answered with 18 points for Germany. Paul Zipser (195-G-94) contributed 12 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.

Turkey U18: Ugur Dokuyan 10, Ramazan Tekin 10, Kenan Sipahi 8
Germany U18: Anselm Hartmann 18, Paul Zipser 12


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Boys Dem Routs Dread Eyes, 99-63, in NBBA Action - by David Edole
Boys Dem got off to a hot start in its New Breed Basketball Association Wednesday night game against Dread Eyes, opening with a 26-14 advantage in the first quarter and never looking back.

They went on to cruise to an easy 99-63 shellacking of an outclassed Dread Eyes squad. In the two games that they have played in the new NBBA season, Boys Dem has established themselves as one of the leagues elite teams that includes defending champion Guidance, the Hoyas, the Lakers and the emerging Alliance.

As if to prove to the league that they just as good defensively as they are on offense, Boys Dem for most of the opening half played stifling defense and held Dread Eyes to a paltry 27 first-half points, while they burned the nets for 50.

Boys Dem predominantly went with full-court pressure, which led to several turnovers that resulted in a plethora of highlight reel dunks.

Led by 11 third-quarter points from Wilson Ferrance (191-G) and 10 apiece from Terrel Christian and Salim Ross, Boys Dem exploded for 38 points in the period to open an 88-50 lead that prompted fans to head to the gates.

With scoring not an issue anymore in the game for Boys Dem, Coach Zorro Swanston decided to do some more work defensively, and his team responded by holding the Dread Eyes to 13 fourth-quarter points but never tried to run up the score.

The Boys netted 11 points in the final period for a final score of 99-63.

Ferrance led four Boys Dem players in double figures with 18 points and 12 rebounds. He got good support from teammates Ross, Christian, and Jaquan Francis as they finished with 16, 14, and 13 points, respectively.

For Dread Eyes, Aswad Virgo and Rudolf Simmonds led the way with 15 points apiece. Simmonds also pulled down 10 rebounds.



Utah Jazzs Raja Bell says owners are pushing for NBA lockout - by David Edole
By Brian T. Smith

The Salt Lake Tribune

First published Jun 23 2011 08:49PM
Updated Jun 24, 2011 05:34PM
New York Backed by a legion of NBA player representatives, NBPA executive director Billy Hunter said Thursday that he believes league owners are pushing for a lockout with an ultimate goal of breaking the players union.

Hunter and NBPA president Derek Fisher spoke with the media after players held their annual meeting in downtown Manhattan. The gathering preceded a pivotal conference Friday between the NBA and union. If the sides are unable to make progress during collective bargaining agreement discussions, owners could vote Tuesday to lock out players during a Board of Governors meeting in Dallas.

Hunter said recent CBA proposals by the league make a poor deal that NHL players accepted to end a season-killing lockout in 2004-05 look like a great one.

Its my belief that [owners] have to do the same kind of damage, impose the same kind of damage on us, Hunter said. [They] have to break the spirit and will and resolve of the NBA players in order to achieve what they want.

The union was in full force Thursday, with everyone from the Jazzs Raja Bell (196-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances, college: FIU) , the Los Angeles Clippers Blake Griffin, and Bostons Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett in attendance. Pierce elicited laughter when he ran into the room requesting Hunter delay his speech until the Celtics forward could join a group consisting of more than 50 players. But the Boston duo was soon characterized by crossed arms and menacing frowns, while Fisher said the union will not fracture during a work stoppage.

Wed love to avoid a lockout, Fisher said. But were unified in the sense of not being afraid if thats what were faced with.

Bell filled in for former Utah player representative Ronnie Price, who is a free agent next season.

Bell said that the NBPA has already given up considerable ground during negotiations, but it has not been met halfway by the league. Unless owners change their stance Friday, the NBA will soon come to a sudden halt.

Billy hit the nail on the head when he said it just doesnt seem anything we do is satisfactory for them right now, Bell said. So it gives us the appearance that they are slow marching us to a lockout.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.


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


Iran wins West Asia Basketball Championship - by Eurobasket News
Iran wins West Asia Basketball Championship as the team won all three games at the tournament. Iran finished undefeated after 93:52 win over Iraq in the last day. The favorites opened the game with 29-12 and never looked behind. Iraq meanwhile finished with 0-3 record and could not qualify to the 26th FIBA Asia Championship. Only three top teams joined Lebanon as WABA representatives in the 26th FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Wuhan (China) from Sept 15-25.
Jordan finished second at the West Asia Basketball Championship due to the win in the last day. Jordan edged Syria 92:75 to grab 2-1 record on the second place, while Syria finished third with 1-2 record. The winners started with 22-19 in the first frame and added 23-13 in the second. Syria won the third period but could not come closer. Both teams as well as Iran joined Lebanon as WABA representatives in the 26th FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Wuhan (China) from Sept 15-25.







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

Women News

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


Lakeside brush aside Perth, Cockburn (Round 15 WSBL Wrap) - by Eurobasket News
Lakeside brush aside Perth, Cockburn (Round 15 WSBL Wrap)

Lakeside Lightning gave their women's State Basketball League finals hope a major boost with a pair of crucial wins in round 15.

The Lightning enter the final month of the regular season in a finals spot after beating Perth Redbacks 63-56 on Friday, which saw them climb to eighth place.

And it got worse on Saturday for the Redbacks, who became just the second team this season to lose to Southwest Slammers, falling 65-63, while Lakeside stunned local rivals Metropolis Fremantle Cockburn Cougars 70-60 to finish the round one game clear of Perth.

Narelle Henry (170-G-77) (12 points) did her best to help the Redbacks cover the absence of star centre Marita Payne against Lakeside, but it wasn't enough as import Heidi McNeill (21 points and 12 rebounds) led the Lightning to victory.

And Perth's losing streak was extended to four games as Shannon Mcrobert (17 points) helped the Slammers stun last year's semi-finalists and earn just their second win of the year.

Lakeside's win against Cockburn was its third-straight victory and was just the second time the sixth-placed Cougars have lost at home all season. Emily Fielding (21 points) starred for the Lightning.

Cockburn also lost 88-74 to Australian Central East Perth Eagles, who moved into fifth spot after Samantha Norwood and Kate Fielding excelled in their victory with 30 and 27 points respectively.

The Eagles wrapped up an impressive weekend with a shock 58-53 win against third-placed Mandurah Magic, who have lost two-straight.

Southlands Boulevarde Willetton Tigers held off a late fight-back to beat fellow top four side Glasscraft Wanneroo Wolves 70-66.

Kate Malpass (176-G-88) had 22 points to get the league leaders back into form, following their shock loss to Lakeside last week, and end Wanneroo's six-game winning run.

But Willetton's Friday game against Kalamunda Eastern Suns had to be postponed after rainwater got on the court, resulting in unsafe playing conditions.

Rockingham Flames remained on the bottom of the ladder after losing 75-35 to Wanneroo, who were led by Rebecca Mercer (175-G-86, college: Montana St.) (19 points).

And Western Stainless Stirling Senators' finals chances were dealt another blow with a 69-60 loss to second-placed Total Connections Perry Lakes Hawks, who have won seven straight games.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: WSBL

*****************************************************
  CHINA - Women  


China better Russia in Reze - by Eurobasket News
China U19 - Russia U19 66:57

Chinese U19 National Team posted the third straight win at the Reze international tournament in France. They overcame Russian opponents to clinch the top spot in Group B. China will now take on France for the trophy. Russia suffered the first loss and would play against Nigeria for Bronze.
The teams stayed close in the starting minutes. However China used a 12:2 run late in the opening frame to take a 24:13 lead. They kept Russia at distance throughout the second period. The Asian team arrived at halftime up by 10 points 38:28. China shocked Russia with a 10:3 run at the start of the third quarter as the lead grew at 17-point mark. Russia did not surrender as they managed to narrow the deficit at 7 points midway through the final term. But China stayed calm and determined in the dying minutes and recorded yet another win in Reze. Shen Yi (173-G-93) and Sun Meng Ran (197-C-92) accounted for 14 points each to lead China. Zuo Jiayi (178-G-92) added 11 points for the winners. Anastasia Pasynkova (168-G-92) answered with 13 points for Russia. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-C/F-93, agency: RIZO) and Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) chipped in 10 points in defeat.

China U19: Shen Yi 14, Sun Meng Ran 14, Zuo Jiayi 11
Russia U19: Anastasia Pasynkova 13, Ksenia Tikhonenko 10, Alexandra Stolyar 10


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


Stats Leaders Div.A (Women)
Points Per Game
 Doneeka HODGES
  USA
  (175-G-82)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Hodges, BUL20.3 
 2. Perovanovic, MNT19.0 
 3. Tuukkanen, FIN18.3 
 4. Kalentzou, GRE16.0 
 5. Dubljevic, MNT15.6 
 6. Yilmaz, TUR15.6 
 7. Elhotova, CZE15.6 
 8. Zherzherunov., UKR15.5 
 9. Meesseman, BEL15.0 
 10. Kobryn, POL14.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Zane TAMANE
  LAT
  (200-C-83)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Tamane, LAT10.8 
 2. Meesseman, BEL9.0 
 3. Bar, GER8.8 
 4. Tuukkanen, FIN8.8 
 5. Leuchanka, BLR8.6 
 6. Stepanova, RUS8.4 
 7. Zherzherunov., UKR8.3 
 8. Ress, ITA8.0 
 9. Dubljevic, MNT7.8 
 10. Kobryn, POL7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Jelena DUBLJEVIC
  MNT
  (191-C-87)
  Avg: 5
 1. Dubljevic, MNT5.0 
 2. Babkina, LAT4.8 
 3. Marchanka, BLR4.4 
 4. Mandir, CRO4.2 
 5. Dumerc, FRA3.5 
 6. Pawlak, POL3.5 
 7. Zara, ITA3.3 
 8. Bar, GER3.3 
 9. De Forge, MNT3.2 
 10. Dimitrova, BUL3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Sandra LINKEVICIENE
  LTU
  (176-G-82)
  Avg: 3
 1. Linkeviciene, LTU3.0 
 2. Bimbaite, LTU2.8 
 3. Kalentzou, GRE2.7 
 4. Lyttle, ESP2.5 
 5. Palau, ESP2.5 
 6. Zherzherunov., UKR2.5 
 7. Mayombo, BEL2.5 
 8. De Forge, MNT2.4 
 9. Stepanova, RUS2.4 
 10. Bar, GER2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Sandrine GRUDA
  FRA
  (194-C-87)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Gruda, FRA1.8 
 2. Kobryn, POL1.7 
 3. Marginean, ROM1.5 
 4. Veremeenko, BLR1.5 
 5. Khomenchuk, UKR1.3 
 6. Popovic, MNT1.2 
 7. Burgrova, CZE1.2 
 8. Tamane, LAT1.2 
 9. Ndongue, FRA1.0 
 10. Jurcenkova, SVK1.0 


Standings Div.A (Women)
Standings
Group E
1. Lithuania4-0
2. Czech Rep.3-1
3. Russia2-2
4. Belarus2-2
5. Turkey1-3
6. U.Kingdom0-4
Group F
1. Montenegro.5-0
2. France3-2
3. Latvia3-2
4. Croatia2-3
5. Spain2-3
6. Poland0-5


*****************************************************
  FRANCE - Women  


France stay unbeaten in Reze - by Eurobasket News
France U19 - Nigeria U19 54:49

France recorded their third straight win at the Reze international tournament. The hosts prevailed against ambitious Nigerian counterparts to enter Final. France will face China for the title. Nigeria will play against Russia in consolation final tonight.
The teams stayed close in the opening period. Les Bleus eked out a 13:12 lead after ten minutes. France spurred ahead early in the second period but Nigeria slowed down their opponents to trail by just two points at halftime 22:24. The hosts opened the second half strongly. They used a 12:4 run to open a double-digit advantage. France arrived at the final intermission up by 6 points 40:34. France kept Nigeria at distance in the final period and celebrated a tough win at the end. Adja Konteh (178-F-92) stepped up with 14 points for France. Clarince Djaldi Tabdi (183-F-95) added 13 points in the winning effort. Promise Amukamara answered with 16 points and 10 rebounds for Nigeria. Ezinne Kalu (172-G) and Sarah Imovbioh netted 11 points each in the loss.

France U19: Adja Konteh 14, Clarince Djaldi Tabdi 13, Jenny Fouasseau (179-F-92) 9
Nigeria U19: Promise Amukamara 16+10 boards, Ezinne Kalu 11, Sarah Imovbioh 11


*****************************************************
  HOLLAND - Women  


Netherlands rally past Austria for first win in Reze - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands U20 - Austria U20 89:63

Netherlands earned the initial win at the Reze international tournament in France. They overcame Austria to clinch the third position in Group B. Kourtney Treffers (186-F-94) stepped up with 18 points to lead the effort. Netherlands will now take on Sweden for the fifth place at the tournament. Austria in the meantime slipped at 0-3 record and would play against Lithuania for the seventh overall position.
Netherlands exploded with 26 points in the starting period to build a 7-point lead. They maintained the advantage well enough throughout the second period. Netherlands arrived at the interval up by 15 points 46:31. The Dutch team cruised to a 65:44 lead with one quarter remaining and never looked back en route to the victory. Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92) and Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) added 12 points each for the winners.


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  HUNGARY - Women  


U20: strong game against Germany - by Adam Patonay
The hungarian U20 national team on their 9th day of Training camp in Kormend played against the strong Germany.
Germany is a taller and stronger team than the hungarian but Hungary was on close game during 35 minutes and gave work for the germans.

Magyarorszg - Nmetorszg 49:61
 (12:14, 11:13, 15:17, 11:17)

Hungary: Moravcsik -, Andras Madar (191-G-91, agency: TSS Management) 16/9, Kerpel-Fronius -, Bodor 4, Eilingsfeld 2. Csere: Meszaros 3/3, Delity 3/3, Kovacs 7/3, Biro 6, Juhos 4, Bus 3/3, Narai 1. Edz: Volgyi Peter, Kis Attila.

Germany: Giffey 13/3, Theis 11, Heckmann 10/3.


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


Sweden drub Lithuania for first win in Reze - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20 - Lithuania U20 69:37

Sweden earned their first win at the Reze international tournament. They rallied past Lithuanian counterparts to improve at 1-2 record. Sweden will now take on Netherlands for the fifth overall position. Lithuania suffered the third straight defeat and would look for the first win against Austria.
Sweden gave little chance for their opponents right from the start. The Scandinavians outgunned Lithuania 27:9 in the starting frame. Sweden rallied confidently throughout the second period. They built a 42:23 advantage at halftime. Sweden did not slow down in the third period. They accumulated a 20-point lead with one quarter to go 49:29. The Scandinavian team opened the fourth term on an 11:2 run and never looked back on the way to the victory. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) stepped up with 15 points. Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) and Tanya Massamba (182-F/G-91) added 10 points each in the victory. Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) replied with 13 points for Lithuania. Monika Grigalauskyte (187-F-92) notched 8 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Sweden U20: Farhiya Abdi 15, Binta Drammeh 10, Tanya Massamba 10
Lithuania U20: Santa Okockyte 13, Monika Grigalauskyte 8


*****************************************************
  NIGERIA - Women  


France stay unbeaten in Reze - by Eurobasket News
France U19 - Nigeria U19 54:49

France recorded their third straight win at the Reze international tournament. The hosts prevailed against ambitious Nigerian counterparts to enter Final. France will face China for the title. Nigeria will play against Russia in consolation final tonight.
The teams stayed close in the opening period. Les Bleus eked out a 13:12 lead after ten minutes. France spurred ahead early in the second period but Nigeria slowed down their opponents to trail by just two points at halftime 22:24. The hosts opened the second half strongly. They used a 12:4 run to open a double-digit advantage. France arrived at the final intermission up by 6 points 40:34. France kept Nigeria at distance in the final period and celebrated a tough win at the end. Adja Konteh (178-F-92) stepped up with 14 points for France. Clarince Djaldi Tabdi (183-F-95) added 13 points in the winning effort. Promise Amukamara answered with 16 points and 10 rebounds for Nigeria. Ezinne Kalu (172-G) and Sarah Imovbioh netted 11 points each in the loss.

France U19: Adja Konteh 14, Clarince Djaldi Tabdi 13, Jenny Fouasseau (179-F-92) 9
Nigeria U19: Promise Amukamara 16+10 boards, Ezinne Kalu 11, Sarah Imovbioh 11


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  ROMANIA - Women  


Romania U20 lost first two in Bourg en Bresse - by Eurobasket News
Romania U20 lost first two in Bourg en Bresse at the International tournament with 4 teams participating.
In Day 1 Russia U20 overcame Romania U20 65:47. The winners started with 10-9 in the opening period and added 13-11 for 23-20 halftime advantage. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Russia erupted with 25-13 for the big surge. In the last period the favorites added 17-14 for the final success. Flavia Ferenczi (175-F-91) ended up with 14 points for Romania and Sonia Ursu (175-G/F-93) scored 10.
In Day 2 France U20 outscored Romania U20 70:57. The hosts started with 22-13 and never looked behind after. They reached 40:28 at the halftime and controlled most of the game. Both teams scored the same number of points in the third period for 54:42 and France improved to another point at the very end. Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) scored 12 points for Romania and Sonia Ursu netted 11 puncte, Flavia Ferenczi ended up with 9 points, while Alexandra Florea (187-C/F-92) nailed 8 and Gabriela Cursaru had 6.



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  RUSSIA - Women  


Russia U20 had a successful start in four-nation campaign - by Eurobasket News
Russia U20 had a successful start in four-nation campaign in Bourg en Bresse at the International tournament with 4 teams participating. They won the first two games and will meet France in the last day of the competition.
In Day 1 Russia U20 overcame Romania U20 65:47. The winners started with 10-9 in the opening period and added 13-11 for 23-20 halftime advantage. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Russia erupted with 25-13 for the big surge. In the last period the favorites added 17-14 for the final success. Flavia Ferenczi (175-F-91) ended up with 14 points for Romania and Sonia Ursu (175-G/F-93) scored 10.
In Day 2 Russia U20 outscored Germany 62:50. The winners started with 11-7 in the first frame and enjoyed the 4-point advantage at the halftime. Russia looked better in the second half producing the victories in the third and the last frames. Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) 's 10 points were not enough for Germany. Sarah-Marie Frankenberger (180-F-91) and Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92) netted 9 each, while Julia Gaudermann (166-PG-92) posted 8.




China better Russia in Reze - by Eurobasket News
China U19 - Russia U19 66:57

Chinese U19 National Team posted the third straight win at the Reze international tournament in France. They overcame Russian opponents to clinch the top spot in Group B. China will now take on France for the trophy. Russia suffered the first loss and would play against Nigeria for Bronze.
The teams stayed close in the starting minutes. However China used a 12:2 run late in the opening frame to take a 24:13 lead. They kept Russia at distance throughout the second period. The Asian team arrived at halftime up by 10 points 38:28. China shocked Russia with a 10:3 run at the start of the third quarter as the lead grew at 17-point mark. Russia did not surrender as they managed to narrow the deficit at 7 points midway through the final term. But China stayed calm and determined in the dying minutes and recorded yet another win in Reze. Shen Yi (173-G-93) and Sun Meng Ran (197-C-92) accounted for 14 points each to lead China. Zuo Jiayi (178-G-92) added 11 points for the winners. Anastasia Pasynkova (168-G-92) answered with 13 points for Russia. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-C/F-93, agency: RIZO) and Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) chipped in 10 points in defeat.

China U19: Shen Yi 14, Sun Meng Ran 14, Zuo Jiayi 11
Russia U19: Anastasia Pasynkova 13, Ksenia Tikhonenko 10, Alexandra Stolyar 10


*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA - Women  


MBK Ruzomberok land Carmen Guzman - by Eurobasket News
Carmen Guzman (175-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) will play for MBK Ruzomberok in the next season. The sides have agreed on terms of contract. Carmen Guzman spent the previous season with Nitra. The guard was the top scorer in Slovakian Extraliga. Carmen Guzman tallied 20.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.6 steals per game. Eurobasket.com named Carmen Guzman All-Slovakian Extraliga Import Player of the Year. She was also trumped Guard of the Year. Previously Carmen Guzman played for Botasspor Adana in Turkey, Leipzig Eagles and Halle Lions in Germany. The guard was also named Eurobasket.com All-German DBBL Import Player of the Year in 2010. Carmen Guzman plays for Dominican Republic National Team. The guard notched 20.2 points, 6.4 assists, 5.8 rebounds and 5.0 steals per game at Centrobasket in Mayaguez in 2010.


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  SWEDEN - Women  


Sweden drub Lithuania for first win in Reze - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20 - Lithuania U20 69:37

Sweden earned their first win at the Reze international tournament. They rallied past Lithuanian counterparts to improve at 1-2 record. Sweden will now take on Netherlands for the fifth overall position. Lithuania suffered the third straight defeat and would look for the first win against Austria.
Sweden gave little chance for their opponents right from the start. The Scandinavians outgunned Lithuania 27:9 in the starting frame. Sweden rallied confidently throughout the second period. They built a 42:23 advantage at halftime. Sweden did not slow down in the third period. They accumulated a 20-point lead with one quarter to go 49:29. The Scandinavian team opened the fourth term on an 11:2 run and never looked back on the way to the victory. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) stepped up with 15 points. Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) and Tanya Massamba (182-F/G-91) added 10 points each in the victory. Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) replied with 13 points for Lithuania. Monika Grigalauskyte (187-F-92) notched 8 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Sweden U20: Farhiya Abdi 15, Binta Drammeh 10, Tanya Massamba 10
Lithuania U20: Santa Okockyte 13, Monika Grigalauskyte 8


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


Taurasi, Taylor lead Mercury over Sky - by Eurobasket News
Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) scored 23 points and Penny Taylor (6'1''-F-81) added 19 as the Phoenix Mercury beat the Chicago Sky 86-78 on Saturday for their fourth straight win.

Candice Dupree (6'2''-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) had all 13 of her points in the second half, Kara Braxton (6'6''-C-83, college: Georgia) had nine rebounds and Taylor also had nine rebounds and seven assists for the Mercury (4-3).

Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU), the WNBA's scoring leader, had 28 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Sky (4-4), who have lost three of their last four. Ephiphanny Prince added 16 points.

The Mercury began the third quarter with nine consecutive points, part of a 16-2 run that opened a 53-42 lead. The Sky's first field goal came with 3:43 remaining on Fowles' driving layup.

Phoenix outscored Chicago 25-13 in the quarter to take control.

The Mercury opened their biggest lead at 74-58 on Marie Ferdinand-Harris' fastbreak layup with 5:36 left in regulation. The Sky pulled to 82-75 on a Fowles' driving layup with 25.6 seconds to go.

Chicago led 40-37 at halftime after a buzzer-beating 3-pointer from Prince.

Taurasi, the league's No. 3 scorer, had tied the score with a 3 with 2.6 seconds showing and closed the half with 12 points. Fowles also had 12 in the first half for the Sky.

Phoenix shot 49 percent from the field (32 of 65) while Chicago was 40 percent (27 for 67), including just 5 for 18 on 3s. The Mercury outrebounded the Sky 40-29.

Courtesy of www.mercurynews.com

Catchings' double-double leads Fever in 75-70 win over Sun - by Eurobasket News
Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) had 13 points and 12 rebounds to help the Indiana Fever defeat Connecticut 75-70 on Saturday and move into first-place in the Eastern Conference.

Catchings, who got her 70th career double-double, also had five assists.

Tamara Sutton-Brown (6'4''-C-78, college: Rutgers) had 12 points and Briann January (5'8''-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Arizona St.) added 10 for the Fever (5-3). Sutton-Brown, who came off the bench for the first time this season, helped Indiana's reserves outscore Connecticut's 31-6.

Renee Montgomery (5'7''-G-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) had 19 points and Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) added 18 for Connecticut (4-3), which has lost its past two games. Tina Charles, who had averaged 26 points in her previous three games, was held to 12.

Indiana controlled most of the second half, but Connecticut made a final surge. Montgomery's 3-pointer with 13.8 seconds left cut what had been a 14-point Fever lead at one point to 72-70.

Catchings made the second of a pair of free throws with 12.9 seconds left to make it 73-70.

Connecticut had one last chance, but Catchings stole the ball from Montgomery in a scramble under the basket to ignite a fast break, and Shyra Ely's layup put the finishing touch on the win for Indiana.

Connecticut got off to a fast start and led 28-20 in the second quarter before the Fever put starters Catchings, January and Katie Douglas back into the game. Connecticut still led 30-23 before Indiana went on a 16-0 run and held the Sun scoreless for more than 6 minutes. The Fever led 39-32 at halftime.

Connecticut surged and took a 45-44 lead on a layup by Montgomery early in the third quarter befofe Sutton-Brown answered for Indiana. The veteran center scored eight points in a 3-minute span to help the Fever regain control, and they led 60-49 at the end of the period. The Sun made just 9 of 28 shots in the middle two quarters.

Connecticut trimmed Indiana's lead to 69-63 and could have drawn closer. Catchings got a rebound, drove nearly the length of the court, made a spinning layup and was fouled. She made the free throw to put Indiana up 72-63 before Connecticut's final charge.

Courtesy of www.newser.com

Latest games - by Eurobasket News
New York L. - L.Angeles S. 77-67
After losing in their first two tries, the New York Liberty finally got a win in their new home. Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) scored 22 points to lead the Liberty to a 77-67 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks on Sunday. It was New York's first win at Prudential Center, the team's home for the next three seasons while Madison Square Garden undergoes renovations during the summers. 'It's home as we're going to get,' Pondexter said. 'They're doing renovations. We got this summer and next two summers to kind of get cozy here. We just have to make the most of it.' Essence Carson (6'0''-G-86, college: Rutgers) had 18 points and Plenette Pierson added 16 for the Liberty (4-4), who have won consecutive games after a four-game skid that started with consecutive home losses to Indiana and Atlanta earlier this month. *Courtesy of www.nj.com

Washington M. - Tulsa S. 83-63
Crystal Langhorne (6'2''-F/C-86, college: Maryland) scored 23 points, Nicky Anosike (6'3''-C-86, college: Tennessee) added 13 points and 10 rebounds, and the Washington Mystics snapped a four-game losing streak with an 83-63 win over the Tulsa Shock on Sunday. Matee Ajavon added 21 points and four steals for the Mystics (2-5), who got their first home win this season and avenged an 18-point loss at Tulsa eight days ago The defending Eastern Conference regular-season champions entered the game allowing opponents to shoot 50 percent from the field, but held Tulsa to 35.3 (24 for 68) percent. The Mystics up-tempo offense took care of business on the offensive end, holding a 19-4 fast break points advantage. Liz Cambage scored 15 points and Sheryl Swoopes added 11 points for the Shock (1-8), but the duo combined to score only four points in the second half. Tulsa has lost three straight overall and 14 consecutive road games dating to last season. The Mystics opened the game with nine straight points and never trailed. They led 41-35 at halftime and then outscored the Shock 20-10 in the third quarter behind eight points from Langhorne, who also had up 11 turnovers. *Courtesy of http://wusa9.com

Minnesota L. - Indiana F. 75-78
Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) scored 22 points, including the go-ahead basket with just over a minute to play, to help the Indiana Fever beat the Minnesota Lynx 78-75 Sunday. Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) added 17 for Indiana, while Maya Moore led Minnesota with 21 points. The Lynx held a six-point lead in the fourth quarter, but Douglas and Catchings hit 3s on back-to-back possessions to tie the score at 67 with 5:37 left. The teams traded baskets until Douglas hit a running jump shot from the free-throw line to put Indiana on top 75-73 with 1:06 to go. She later hit one of two free throws to build the Fever lead to three with 20 seconds left. *Courtesy of www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Indiana F. - Connecticut S. 75-70
Tamika Catchings had 13 points and 12 rebounds to help the Indiana Fever defeat Connecticut 75-70 on Saturday and move into first-place in the Eastern Conference. Catchings, who got her 70th career double-double, also had five assists. Tamara Sutton-Brown (6'4''-C-78, college: Rutgers) had 12 points and Briann January added 10 for the Fever (5-3). Sutton-Brown, who came off the bench for the first time this season, helped Indiana's reserves outscore Connecticut's 31-6. Renee Montgomery had 19 points and Asjha Jones added 18 for Connecticut (4-3), which has lost its past two games. Tina Charles, who had averaged 26 points in her previous three games, was held to 12. *Courtesy of www.newser.com

Chicago S. - Phoenix M. 78-86
Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) scored 23 points and Penny Taylor (6'1''-F-81) added 19 as the Phoenix Mercury beat the Chicago Sky 86-78 on Saturday for their fourth straight win. Candice Dupree had all 13 of her points in the second half, Kara Braxton had nine rebounds and Taylor also had nine rebounds and seven assists for the Mercury (4-3). Sylvia Fowles, the WNBA's scoring leader, had 28 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Sky (4-4), who have lost three of their last four. Ephiphanny Prince added 16 points. *Courtesy of www.mercurynews.com

Atlanta D. - S.Antonio SS 86-92
Becky Hammon (5'6''-G-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) loves the intensity Jia Perkins (5'8''-G-82, agency: Merit Sports, college: Texas Tech) brings in her first season with the San Antonio Silver Stars. 'Not only is she a good scorer, but she's someone that gets a lot of people involved and has rebounded like crazy these last few games,' Hammon said. 'We just need her to keep being productive.' Perkins scored 25 points, rookie Danielle Adams added 19 and San Antonio beat the Atlanta Dream 92-86 Sunday to improve to an WNBA best 6-1 and the best start in its 15-year history. 'Rebounding towards the end was a big key for us,' said Perkins, an eighth-year guard who was acquired in a trade with Chicago in April. 'They started attacking and getting in foul trouble, but then we switched up defensive schemes and were able to execute and get some stops when needed them.' Coco Miller finished with 19 points and Angel McCoughtry had 15 for the Dream (2-7), losers of two straight. *Courtesy of www.usatoday.com



Candace Parker injures right knee; MRI scheduled for Monday - by Eurobasket News
Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) will fly to Los Angeles on Monday to receive an MRI on her right knee that she injured during a game in New York on Sunday, the Sparks announced Sunday evening.

Parker injured her right knee after making contact with Quanitra Hollingsworth while trying to dribble around the 6-foot-5 center following a defensive rebound with about six minutes remaining in the third quarter of a 77-67 loss to the Liberty.

Parker immediately fell to the ground and grabbed her right knee. She limped to the locker room and did not return to the game. She was averaging 18 points and 9.7 rebounds for the Sparks (4-3).

Parker, the 2008 most valuable player and rookie of the year, has played in only 35 of a possible 68 regular-season games the last two seasons. She missed the first month of the 2009 season after giving birth to her daughter and she played in only 10 games last season after she dislocated her left shoulder and needed surgery last June. She also had surgery on a torn lateral meniscus in her left knee in September.

'Its tough but were hoping everything is all right,' Sparks' Coach Jennifer Gillom told reporters after the game. 'Weve played without her before, so we just have to focus on getting to the next game and playing hard and having people step up. She just said, 'Keep me in your prayers,' and thats all we can do for her right now and just hope for the best. Shes in good spirits, which is a good thing.

Courtesy of http://latimesblogs.latimes.com

Standings
WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Atlanta D. 0-0 
 2. Chicago S. 0-0 
 3. Connecticut S. 0-0 
 4. Indiana F. 0-0 
 5. New York L. 0-0 
 6. Washington M. 0-0 
Western
 1. L.Angeles S. 0-0 
 2. Minnesota L. 0-0 
 3. Phoenix M. 0-0 
 4. S.Antonio SS 0-0 
 5. Seattle S. 0-0 
 6. Tulsa S. 0-0