EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/28/2011

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Men News

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  ARGENTINA   


Argentinian U19 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Starting five
#s#
Emiliano Basabe
Basabe
Nicolas Copello
Copello
Marcos Delia
Delia
Lucas Diaz
Diaz
Tayavek Gallizzi
Gallizzi
#e#5
Emiliano Basabe 190-G-92 Alma Juniors Argentina
Nicolas Copello 194-G-92 Boca Jrs Argentina
Marcos Delia 206-C-92 Boca Jrs Argentina
Lucas Diaz 198-F-92 Libertad S. Argentina
Tayavek Gallizzi 203-F-93 Quilmes MP Argentina
Patricio Garino 196-G/F-93 High School USA
Juan Giaveno 175-PG-92 Club 9 Argentina
Franco Giorgetti 202-F-92 Penarol Argentina
Luciano Massarelli 183-PG-93 Ramos Mejia Argentina
Carlos Paredes 196-F-92 Monte Hermoso Argentina
Pablo Perez 202-F-92 Sionista Argentina
Fernando Podesta 204-C-92 Velez Sarsfield Argentina

Enrique Tolcachier Head Coach


U17 National team - by Facundo Iatzky
CABB released the list of 12 players who will play the southamerican championship in Cucuta, Colombia from July 16 to July 23.

4 Lucas Chaves (180-G-94) of Bahiense del norte
5 Martin Massone (190-F-94) of san andres
6 Matias Stival (184-G-94) of Rosario central
7 Sergio rupil (188-F-94) of Pesca villa carlos paz
8 Juan Martin Campos (183-G-94) of rowing parana
9 Lucas Gonzalez (192-F-94) of instituto cordoba
10 Ignacio Moreno (196-G-94) of Monte hermoso basket
11 Matias Bernardini (180-G-94) of obras sanitarias
12 Gabriel Deck (195-F-95) of quimsa
13 Javier Saiz (200-F-94) of Hindu cordoba
14 Gonzalo Torres (201-C-94) of BB estudiantes
15 Franco Barroso (202-C-94) of atenas cordoba

Coach: eduardo Japez


Pepsi Caserta brings in Diego Ciorciari - by Eurobasket News
Pepsi Caserta announced signing of a two-year deal with Diego Ciorciari (185-G-80, agency: Interperformances). The Argentinean/Italian point guard heads to his new team from Spanish Menorca. He played 34 games for them last season averaging 6 points, 2.1 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 1.5 steals. Unfortunately, they were not able to survive in ACB. Ciorciari played for Menroca in 2009/10 season as well and he helped the team to win the LEB Gold championship. They also won promotion to ACB at the same time. Ciorciari was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Gold Guard of the Year -09.
Before Menorca, Diego Ciorciari spent two years with Melilla. He also has experience from Calpe Aguas, CAI Zaragoza, Rimini, Avelino, Arkadia and Oeste.
Pepsi Caserta finished last season as No.11 in SerieA. They had 12-18 record.

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  AUSTRALIA   


Canada topple Australia at Global Games 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Canada U19 - Australia U19 76:70

Canada recorded their first win at the 2011 Global Games tournament in Lithuania. They toppled Australia for 1-1 record. Sim Bhullar (223-C-92) stepped up with 16 points and 8 rebounds to pace the effort.
Canada and Australia kept it close throughout the opening period. They arrived at the first break tied at 19. The Emus pulled ahead in the second period. They erupted for 25 points to build a 4-point halftime lead 44:40. Canada however reacted with an aggressive defence in the third term. They limited Australia to only 5 points in the period to take a 10-point lead with one quarter remaining. The Emus tried hard to erase the deficit in the final stanza but came up short of victory. Dyshawn Pierre (198-F-93) and Negus Webster-Chan (202-G-93) contributed 13 points each for the winners. Mitchell Creek (198-F/G-92) answered with 22 points and 8 rebounds for Australia. Lewis Thomas (202-F-92) had 14 points in the loss.

Canada U19: Sim Bhullar 16, Dyshawn Pierre 13, Negus Webster-Chan 13
Australia U19: Mitchell Creek 22, Lewis Thomas 14


Jeff Dowdell joins Cairns Taipans - by Eurobasket News
The Skytrans Cairns Taipans have announced the signing of former Adelaide 36er Jeffrey Dowdell (205-F-87), on a one-year deal with the club.

Dowdell, who is somewhat of a journeyman, has spent six seasons in the NBL. He has had time with the Perth Wildcats, Townsville Crocodiles and most recently the Adelaide 36ers.

Dowdell is a student of the game as he spent two years at the Australian Institute of Sport along with such athletes as NBA player Patrick Mills, NBL players Ben Allen and new team mate Brad Hill and former Cairns juniors Aron Baynes and Nathan Jawai, crafting his profession until he was recruited to play for the Perth Wildcats at the age of 17.

Dowdell had a decorated junior career, from being selected in NSW state championship sides, to representing Australia at a junior level. He is known well for his knowledge of the game and for his relentless work ethic.

Head Coach of the Skytrans Cairns Taipans Aaron Fearne was more than pleased with Jeffs decision to head north.

'Jeff, to me has been under utilised in this league,' said Fearne

'With his size, smarts and work ethic, he is going to help this team in a lot of ways. His day in, day out efforts are what I am looking forward to most. Im excited to get him here.'

' (Taipans assistant coach) Mick (Downer) has a very high opinion on Jeff. He spent a season with him when he was the assistant coach of the Wildcats. He too believes Jeff has not been used to his full potential yet.'

Dowdell will have no worries fitting in up north, joining former 36ers teammate Brad Hill and former Perth Wildcats teammate Alex Loughton in Snakes colours this season.

Courtesy of NBL (www.nbl.com.au)

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  AUSTRIA   


Neno Asceric stays with Oberwart Gunners - by Eurobasket News
Neno Asceric stays with Oberwart Gunners in 2011/2012 season. The Austrian Head Coach will try to defend the title with the team.
Although the team did not win the Regular Season finishing it with 21-11 on the second spot, Oberwart became new A Bundesliga champions. They held off Gmunden in the decisive fifth game of the title series. David Gonzalvez stepped up for the Gunners with 15 points and 7 rebounds. The visiting team were up by six with just 71 seconds to go. Ian Boylan and Deteri Mayes dragged the home team within two points but Kelvin Parker nailed four consecutive free throws to seal the victory and championship title for Oberwart. He finished with 13 points, while Joe Dean Shaw added 11 points for the winners. Ian Boylan answered with 28 points for Gmunden. Deteri Mayes had 20 points in the loss.
As a Head Coach Neno Asceric started in 2006-2007 at JL Bourg Basket (France-ProA). In 2007-2008 moved to Saint-Quentin Basket-Ball (France-ProB). In February 2010 was hired by Oberwart Gunners (A Bundesliga) and remains with them up to now.
Neno Asceric is also the Austrian National Team -08-11. This year he was awarded Eurobasket.com All-Austrian Bundesliga Coach of the Year -11, Austrian Bundesliga A Champion -11 and Austrian Bundesliga A Regular Season Runner-Up -11.


Austria U20 finished third at home tournament - by Eurobasket News
Austria U20-Poland U20 88:66

Austria U20 finished third at home tournament in Oberwart. The hosts outscored Poland U20 in the last game of the campaign 88:66 to end up on a good note.
Austria opened the game with 31:22 lead and then improved to 51:39 at the halftime. The game was almost done at the end of the third period, when the hosts had 68:56 and Austria even increased to 22 points advantage.
Thomas Klepeisz (187-G-91) poured in 17 points to lead the charge, while Claudio Vancura (180-PG-92) posted 16. Daniel Friedrich (180-G-92) and Kramer posted 12 each, whilst Jozo Rados (203-C-93) netted 10. Kacper Mlynarski (200-F-92) and Jakub Parzenski (209-F/C-91) nailed 14 points each in the losing effort, while Michal Sokolowski (195-G-92) posted 11.
Germany U20 won the International tournament in Oberwart with 4 participating teams. In the last decisive game the German side won over Slovenia U20 to finish with three victories. The latter finished second with 2-1 record suffering the only defeat from the winners.

Austria U20: Thomas Klepeisz 17, Claudio Vancura 16, Daniel Friedrich 12, Kramer 12, Jozo Rados 10
Poland U20: Kacper Mlynarski 14, Jakub Parzenski 14, Michal Sokolowski 11



Hungary U16 beats Austria U16 twice - by Eurobasket News
Hungary U16 beats Austria U16 twice at the Sporthalle Oberwart. In Day 1 Hungary had an easy 80:49 win. The guests took 22-11 in the opening period and added another victory in the second for 45:22 at the halftime. They had 67:33 after thirty minutes of the game and reached the easy win. Laszlo Fulop (197-F-95) stepped up with 17 points for the winners, while Boinitzer and Rujak scored 11 apiece. Poltl finished the game with 13 points for the home side and Wolf netted 10.
In Day 2 Austria U16 tries hard but lost 58:65. Papp paced all the winners with 11 points, Goloman scored 10 and Rujak netted 9. Richter and Wolf replied with 11 points in the losing effort, whilst Poltl scored 9. Pelc delivered 8, Soldo nailed 7 and Joakim Zimmerli produced 6 points.



Holland U18 better Austria U18 in Wels - by Eurobasket News
Holland U18 better Austria U18 in Wels in two test games. At first the Dutch side celebrated 79:63 win. The guests started better and reached 47:35 at the halftime. They did not slow down and reached the necessary win in the first game. For Austria Markus Strohmayer (195-F-93) posted 13 points, while Bas and Wilk added 11 apiece. Vladimir Ljesevic (197-F-93) ended up with 8 and Albert Ngoy (178-G-93) scored 5.
On Sunday Holland U18 smashed Austria U18 100:51.It was a disaster for the hosts, that however trailed only 22:30 after 12th minute in the court. last the Dutch side pushed the tempo for good and reached 51:33 halftime advantage. In the second half the guests continued to dominate the court and rightfully won the campaign. For Austria Luka Gvozden (182-G-93) posted 11 points and Bas notched 10.



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  BOSNIA   


U16 NT Candidates List Announced - by Miljan Veskovic
The list of players called for the U16 NT preparation camp:
Ivo Garic (Akademija Nikola Vujcic), Djordje Kelecevic (Rookie), Adi Zahiragic (Bosna), Sanin Omerovic (Bosna), Miso Maslac (Lasta Capljina), Nemanja Tesic (Rookie), Nedim Buza
(Spars), Dejan Ivkovic (Hercegovac), Bojan Lulic (Zlatorog Celje), Milenko Predic (Rookie), Edi Sipka (Bosna), Davor Karamatic (Lasta Capljina), Nedim Tunovic (Kos), Nikola Marijan
(Sloboda), Darijan Stipanovic (Zlatorog Celje), Milos Kolakovic (Vlasenica).

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  BRAZIL   


U16 Brazil wins fifth place in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
CHILE - BRAZIL 54-62

Brazil was better than Chile 62-54 winning the fifth place in Cancun. Brazil ended the U16 FIBA Americas championship with two wins. Chile is No.6 at this event. Lucas Dias (96) shined in Brazil with double-double of 14 points and 15 rebounds. Luis Ricci (95) scored 10, while Humberto Gomes (96) and Lucas Garcia (95) netted 9 points each. In defeat, Martin Pino (95) collected 14 points and 7 rebounds. Matias Sepulveda (96) and Ricardo Cardenas (95) had 13 and 11 points respectively.
Brazil dominated in the second and last quarter, what was enough for the victory at the end. Chile started with 12-9 and Brazil made 7-15 in the second period. Chile was better in Q3 again (21-18) and everything was still open. However, Lucas Dias and his teammates shined when it mattered most and finished last period with 14-20 for the final 54-62 victory.

Chile: Martin Pino 14+7 boards, Matias Sepulveda 13, Ricardo Cardenas 11
Brazil: Lucas Dias 14+15 boards, Luis Ricci 10, Humberto Gomes 9, Lucas Garcia 9

Nene asks to be released from Brazil national team - by Eurobasket News
Denver Nuggets center Hilario Nene (6'10''-C-82) says he will not join Brazil's national team at the upcoming FIBA Americas Championship, the regional qualifying tournament for the 2012 London Olympics.

The Brazilian basketball confederation said Nene asked to be released on Friday, citing 'personal' and 'contractual' reasons.

The confederation said Hilario Nene's one-sentence statement did not provide any further explanation for his request.

The FIBA Americas Championship will be held in Argentina from Aug. 30 to Sept. 11.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

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  BULGARIA   


Bulgarian U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Darin Ivanov
Ivanov
Lachezar Radev
Radev
Hakan Serbezov
Serbezov
Konstantin Koev
Koev
Georgi Kunov
Kunov
#e#5
0 Antonio Iliev 202-F/C-92 NSA Bulgaria
4 Planimir Dafinov 181-PG-92 Lukoil Academik Bulgaria
5 Darin Ivanov 184-PG-91 Rilski Sportist Bulgaria
6 Todor Zahariev 92 Levski Bulgaria
7 Hristo Gospodinov 202-F-92 Dunav 2007 Bulgaria
8 Ventsislav Stoev 183-PG-92 Balkan Bulgaria
9 Lachezar Radev 205-C/F-91 Cherno More Bulgaria
11 Hakan Serbezov 196-F-91 Cherno More Bulgaria
12 Konstantin Koev 206-C-91 Chernomorets Bulgaria
13 Mario Karailiev 206-C-93 Rilski 2 Bulgaria
14 Ivan Runyov 187-G/F-92 Lukoil Academik Bulgaria
15 Georgi Kunov 205-C-92 Sportist Svoge Bulgaria
23 Ilhan Arabadzhiev 198-F-91 Cherno More Bulgaria
24 Plamen Hristov 197-F/G-91 NSA Bulgaria
55 Samuel Francis 190-G-92 Lukoil Academik Bulgaria

Petar Klechkov Head Coach Balkan Bulgaria
Vasil Hristov Assistant
Marin Yatsinski Assistant Balkan Bulgaria


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  CANADA   


U16 Canada wins the Bronze in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
CANADA - PUERTO RICO 86-65

Canada won the Bronze in Cancun. They outplayed Puerto Rico 86-65 to win this medal at the U16 FIBA Americas championship. Thanks to this victory Canada also booked a spot for the next U17 FIBA World championship. Canada had six players with double-digits in scoring. The leading one was Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G) with 16 pts. Patrick Steeves (95) had 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Christopher McComber (95) added 11 pts and 15 rebs. In the loosing squad, William Cruz (180-G-95) delivered 18 points and Jairo Velez (95) stopped to 11 pts.
Canada had wonderful beginning as they made 26-7 lead in the first ten minutes. They continued with 14-11 after that and 23-16 in Q3. At that time it was already clear that Canada will take the Bronze at this event. They slowed down after that and Puerto Rico made 23-31 in the last ten minutes. Of course, that was not enough even for a small treat and Canada celebrated valuable 86-65 victory at the end.

Canada: Kevin-Mbezela Zabo 16, Patrick Steeves 15+7 boards, Christopher McComber 11+15 boards
Puerto Rico: William Cruz 18, Jairo Velez 11

Canadian U19 National Team 2011 - by Karol
#s#
Sim Bhullar
Bhullar
Braxston Bunce
Bunce
Julian Clarke
Clarke
Olivier Hanlan
Hanlan
John Hegwood
Hegwood
#e#5
Sim Bhullar 223-C-92
Braxston Bunce 211-C-94 High School
Julian Clarke 191-G-92 Santa Clara
Olivier Hanlan 188-G-93
John Hegwood 194-G High School
Stefan Jankovic 206-C-93
Marek Klassen 183-PG-92 Point Loma
Matthew Letkeman 201-F-92 Calgary Canada
Junior Lomomba 193-G-93
Naz Long 185-PG
Duane Notice 188-G-94
Kevin Pangos 186-PG-93
Dyshawn Pierre 198-F-93
Philip Scrubb 194-G-92 Carleton Canada
Justin Shaver 198-F-92
Nick Skeete 198-F High School
Nikolas Stauskas 199-F-93 High School
Stefan Cvrkalj 194-G-92 Lehigh
Negus Webster-Chan 202-G-93

Greg Francis Head Coach Alberta Canada


Canada topple Australia at Global Games 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Canada U19 - Australia U19 76:70

Canada recorded their first win at the 2011 Global Games tournament in Lithuania. They toppled Australia for 1-1 record. Sim Bhullar (223-C-92) stepped up with 16 points and 8 rebounds to pace the effort.
Canada and Australia kept it close throughout the opening period. They arrived at the first break tied at 19. The Emus pulled ahead in the second period. They erupted for 25 points to build a 4-point halftime lead 44:40. Canada however reacted with an aggressive defence in the third term. They limited Australia to only 5 points in the period to take a 10-point lead with one quarter remaining. The Emus tried hard to erase the deficit in the final stanza but came up short of victory. Dyshawn Pierre (198-F-93) and Negus Webster-Chan (202-G-93) contributed 13 points each for the winners. Mitchell Creek (198-F/G-92) answered with 22 points and 8 rebounds for Australia. Lewis Thomas (202-F-92) had 14 points in the loss.

Canada U19: Sim Bhullar 16, Dyshawn Pierre 13, Negus Webster-Chan 13
Australia U19: Mitchell Creek 22, Lewis Thomas 14


Edmonton Energy rebound from Saturday-night collapse to beat Legends in IBL action - by Eurobasket News
The wheels didn't fall off a second time for the Edmonton Energy.

After dropping a 13-point lead with 1:40 remaining one night earlier, the Energy rebounded with a crucial 119-102 Internatinal Basketball League victory over the Albany Legends at the University of Alberta Main Gym on Sunday afternoon.

Along with Friday nights win, Edmonton took two out three weekend contests with their New York counterparts.

Both teams now sit tied atop the IBLs International Division, sporting identical 13-5 records.

Sundays first half proved to be a comedy of errors for both sides, highlighted by turnovers and missed passes in transition. Edmonton and Albany kept it close and traded leads over the two opening quarters, with the home side taking a 56-52 lead at the half.

Interim Energy head coach Peter Sambu appeared frustrated at times during the first half, as did his players. Giving his players a half-time pep talk on better ball movement and eliminating sloppiness on the fast break, the beleaguered coach tried to get his players to clean up their game in the second half.

With two teams that are equally matched, there arent going to be any comfort zones, Sambu said. So I told them to rely on each other, just believe in one another and share the ball.

And they did.

Unlike Saturday nights collapse, Edmonton found their energy late, dropping 34 in the final frame to prevent yet another Legends comeback. Forward Lee Scruggs (211-F/C-79, agency: Edge Sports, college: Georgetown), who finished with a game-high 25 points and team-high 11 rebounds on Sunday, felt the team truly gave their all knowing that a win would allow them to keep pace with Albany during this all-important stretch drive.

I think we were a little more prepared tonight for the pressure they put on us that gave us trouble (Saturday) night, Scruggs said.

Were disappointed that we didnt win all three. We had to have two of them in order to be in first place, but weve got two games next week that we have to win to keep first place. Now were just gonna stay focused and get ready for next week.

Energy guard Rashaun Broadus (182-G-84, college: BYU) also had a stellar outing, chipping in 23 points and 12 assists, while former CIS champ Troy Gottselig (203-G-87) posted 19 points and 10 rebounds for the home side.

For the players, two wins against an Albany team also jockeying for position in the IBL summer playoff race are two more notches of success that the Energy have been quietly accumulating all season. And while they might not be Edmontons most prominent sports team, the Energys small but very existent fan base has taken notice of their triumphant 2011 campaign.

Even with a half-full crowd at the Main Gym, loud cheers went up for a Jeffrey Ferguson (211-F/C-81, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Wayne St., MI) dunk in the fourth quarter, and chants of Scruggs, Scruggs, Scruggs rang out when the near seven-footer grabbed an offensive board or nailed a key jump shot.

The fan base has been great, Scruggs said. Its slow and of course we want a packed house every night, but the fans are coming, were playing great. Were just trying to put on a good show and hope we can get them back next year.

Im hoping we generate a huge buzz (with a playoff run), Sambu said. If we win more ball games, you know what they say: it puts more fannies in the seats.

The Energy will close out the regular season this week with matchups against the Olympia Reign and Portland Chinooks, both on the road, before the start of the IBL summer playoffs on Friday.

Courtesy of www.edmontonjournal.com

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  CHILE   


U16 Brazil wins fifth place in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
CHILE - BRAZIL 54-62

Brazil was better than Chile 62-54 winning the fifth place in Cancun. Brazil ended the U16 FIBA Americas championship with two wins. Chile is No.6 at this event. Lucas Dias (96) shined in Brazil with double-double of 14 points and 15 rebounds. Luis Ricci (95) scored 10, while Humberto Gomes (96) and Lucas Garcia (95) netted 9 points each. In defeat, Martin Pino (95) collected 14 points and 7 rebounds. Matias Sepulveda (96) and Ricardo Cardenas (95) had 13 and 11 points respectively.
Brazil dominated in the second and last quarter, what was enough for the victory at the end. Chile started with 12-9 and Brazil made 7-15 in the second period. Chile was better in Q3 again (21-18) and everything was still open. However, Lucas Dias and his teammates shined when it mattered most and finished last period with 14-20 for the final 54-62 victory.

Chile: Martin Pino 14+7 boards, Matias Sepulveda 13, Ricardo Cardenas 11
Brazil: Lucas Dias 14+15 boards, Luis Ricci 10, Humberto Gomes 9, Lucas Garcia 9

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  COSTA RICA   


U16 Mexico avoids last place in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
U16 COSTA RICA - U16 MEXICO 66-76

Mexico avoided last place at the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. They outplayed Costa Rica 76-66 for the first victory at this event. Costa Rica on the other side, finished as No.8 winless. Omar De Haro (95) shined for the hosts with 24 points and 7 rebounds. Bryan Rivera (95) followed him with 20 points and 7 boards. Third scorer in victory was Uriel Beltran (96) with 9 points. CRC got 24 points and 12 rebounds from Milton Jimenez (95). Adrian Chavarria (96) scored 13 and Henry Sanchez (95) added three points less.
Mexico started the game with 15-19 lead. However, Costa Rica replied with 19-15 in Q2 tying the score at the HT. Mexico drastically improved after the breather making 16-24 in Q3. They won the last quarter as well (16-18) for the final 66-76 victory.

Costa Rica: Milton Jimenez 24+12 boards, Adrian Chavarria 13, Henry Sanchez 10
Mexico: Omar De Haro 24+7 boards, Bryan Rivera 20+7 boards, Uriel Beltran 9

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  CROATIA   


Efes Pilsen targets C Stanko Barac - by Eurobasket News
After signing of big guy Ermal Kurtoglu (208-C-80, agency: Beo Basket), Efes Pilsen is looking to add another center. According to Turkish media, their first pick is Croatian C Stanko Barac (217-C-86). The 24-year-old Barac spent last three years with Caja Laboral. He had 11.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1 bpg for them in 20 Euroleague games last season. Barac also added 11.9 ppg, 7 rpg and 1.3 apg for 36 games in ACB. Eurobasket awarded Barac with Spanish ACB All-Bosmans Team -11. He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB 2nd Team -11.
Stanko Barac won two ACB titles with Caja Laboral (ex Tau). He also won Copa del Rey trophy with them in 2009. Before Caja Labora, Barac was a member of Pamesa (loan) and Bosnian team Siroki Prima pivo. He also has experience from the Croatian National Team. At the Eurobasket 2007 in Spain, Barac had 5.4 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 7 games. At the Olympic Games 2008 in Beijing, Barac added 4.7 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 6 appearances.

U16 Croatia beats U16 Czech Republic twice - by Eurobasket News
U16 Croatia and U16 Czech Republic met in two friendly games this weekend. Both meetings were played in Pardubice.
In the first game Croatia celebrated 100-79 victory against their host. Domagoj Bosnjak shined in Croatia with 21 points. Marko Arapovic had 16 and Tomislav Gabric (197-F-91) added 15 pts. Quarters: 29-19, 25-18, 29-23, 17-19.
In the second meeting Croatia had to work hard to secure a win. They celebrated 83-76 thanks to nice played last quarter. Tomislav Gabric led Croatia this time netting 17 points. Domagoj Bosnjak and Dorian Jelinek scored 15 points each. Quarters: 23-22, 20-22, 16-15, 24-17.

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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Mattoni NBL will Feature 14 Teams Next Season, Including Two Slovak Clubs - by Surujh Roopnarine
The Mattoni NBL has agreed upon a 14-team league for the 2011-12 season, including Slovak clubs Astrum Levice and BK Inter Bratislava. The two teams from Slovakia earned one-year wild-card births, while a third candidate Nitra, narrowly missed out. The regular season will begin on September 28 and will consist of 26 rounds. Upon completion of these rounds, the top six clubs will move on to A1 play while the bottom eight will compete in the A2 division, with the top-four from the A2 to fight for a spot in the playoffs. The main reason for the acceptance of clubs from Slovakia is due to the financial 'demise' of current NBL clubs in Brno and Novy Jicin. Levharti Chomutov and BK Usti nad Labem will move up from the 1.Liga as well.

Pardubice Adds Three Key Pieces for 2011-12 Season Highlighted by Veteran Swingman Corey Muirhead - by Surujh Roopnarine
BK JIP Pardubice officially announced the addition of three talented players who they hope will help them break through to an NBL Finals appearance which so narrowly escaped them this season. First off is Canadian-Jamaican small forward Corey Muirhead (198-F-83, college: W.Carolina). The 28-year old Muirhead has spent most of the last three seasons with the now defunct Novy Jicin club in eastern Moravia. A graduate of Western Carolina, Muirhead appeared in 33 games this season for Novy Jicin, averaging 13.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.2 steals while shooting 54.6% from the field and 24.1% from three. He is a two-time NBL All-Star, having captured the dunk contest crown this year in Pardubice, as well as having ked Novy Jicin to the Cup Finals this season where they dropped an overtime heart-breaker to CEZ Nymburk. In addition to his seasons with Novy Jicin, the 6-6 Muirhead has experience playing in Austria, France, and Switzerland.
Next up is Lukas Kotas (194-F-84), arguably the best player of USK Praha this past season.
In 34 games the 27-year old wing averaged 13.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.9 steals, doing a little bit of everything for the young team from the capital. For his efforts this season he was named to the Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. League 2nd Team. The final addition comes from B&W Opava in the form of point guard Michal Carnecky (184-G-85).
The 25-year old National Team member has been one of the leagues best assist man the past three seasons, finishing in the top-five each year. This season he appeared in 32 games for Opava and averaged 8.0 points, 1.9 rebounds, 3.7 assists (4th) and 1.0 steals while shooting 34.1% from three.



Czech Republic U18 comes back from Italy - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic U18 comes back from Italy as they participated at the International tournament. In Day 1 they lost to Poland, while Sweden U18 edged Italian U18 team 76:70.
In Day 2 Italy U18 rolled over Czech Republic U18 95:75. The favorites started the game well and reached the necessary result at the end of the game. Francesco Veccia (190-G-93) poured in 24 points and Chillo netted 23. Raphael Gaspardo (205-F-93) ended up with 10, whilst Della Valle scored 9.
In Day 3 Czech Republic U18 needed overtime to upset Sweden U18 86:82. The Scandinavian team started with 19-16 and then added 24-19 in the second frame. The Czechs replied with 24-16 in the third period to tie the score as both teams scored 18 points in the fourth stanza. In overtime Czech Republic needed 9-5 to win the game. For Sweden Tobias Borg (183-G-93) poured in 20 points and Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) scored 16. Jesper Eliasson delivered 10, while Sebastian Schuztler had 9.



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  ESTONIA   


Estonian U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Estonian U20 National Team 2011
#s#
Janar Areng
Areng
Martin Dorbek
Dorbek
Sven Kaldre
Kaldre
Kristian Kalle
Kalle
Rain Karner
Karner
#e#5
Janar Areng 200-F-92 Kalev/G4S Estonia
Martin Dorbek 191-G-91 Rakvere Estonia
Sven Kaldre 195-G/F-91 Rapla Estonia
Kristian Kalle 205-C-92 Noortekoondis Estonia
Rain Karner 186-PG-91 Parnu Estonia
Markus Laanemets 188-G-92 KK Hito Estonia
Raul Liivrand 203-C-91 Noortekoondis Estonia
Martin Limberg 197-F-91 Rapla Estonia
Madis Parn 194-F-91 Rapla Estonia
Jaan Puidet 192-G/F-92 Kalev/Cramo Estonia
Rannar Raap 188-G/F-92 Rapla Estonia
Janar Soo 195-G/F-91 Rapla Estonia
Riho Suija 192-G/F-92 Kalev/Cramo Estonia
Sixten Tomingas 189-G-91 TTU/Kalev Estonia
Karl-Kristjan Vaab 198-F-92 TU/Rock II Estonia
Joonas Vaino 204-C/F-92 Rakvere Estonia
Rain Veideman 192-G-91 TU/Rock Estonia
Kristjan Voolaid 200-F-92 Parnu Estonia



*****************************************************
  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


ESL Chicago begins on Thursday at Attack Athletics in Chicago - by Darryl Reshaw

Eurobasket Summer League (ESL) 2011 is proud to present the #1 summer professional exposure event for the international basketball community.

The Eurobasket Summer League 2011 first event is June 30th July 2nd at Attack Athletics in Chicago.

This is the fourth (4th) year the ESL has been featured at Attack Athletics the facility where you will see many NBA stars training.

Coach Aurimas Matulevicius s returning to coach the ESL Chicago event after scouting the event in the summer of 2008.

As a result he took four ESL players back to Lithuania to play for Panevezys Techasas in the LKL in the Baltic League in the 2008-09 season.

Aurimas was one of the youngest coaches in the Lithuanian and Baltic League.

This summer he will be scouting for several teams in the Ukraine, Lithuania and Russian leagues as well as coaching a team in the event.

Jay Bradford the current coach of the Gary Splash of the IBL will be coaching and scouting in the ESL Chicago and Las Vegas event as well.

Tunde Adekola who has coached in Germany the past couple of season will appear at the ESL event as a coach and a scout for teams in Germany and Europe.

Donnie Boyce the former NBA and overseas player who coached for the Reno Bighorns in the NBDL will be one of our featured coaches.

Steve Taylor the voice of the ESL will be back to defend his ESL Championship and to promote his coaching skills for European teams.

Robert Conley (6'6''-G/F-77, college: Clayton St.) the standout European professional player will be scouting for various European teams and will be a featured coach at the ESL event.

Darryl Reshaw the ESL Director will be scouting the event for over 30 European teams.

He is a former European player and agent who spent over twenty years in Europe and negotiated over 300 basketball employment contracts.

He will be looking for talent for various European clubs and agencies.



The Game Schedule is as follows:

June 30th: G1 - 1pm; G2 2:30pm; G3 4:00pm; G4 5:30pm

July 1st: G5 12pm; G6 1:30pm; G7 3pm; G8 4:30pm

July 2nd: G9 11am; G10 12:30pm; G11 2pm; G12 3:30pm



For more information please email marketing@eurobasket.com or register on www.eurobasketsummerleague.com





*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


BC Donetsk lands PG Vule Avdalovic - by Eurobasket News
BC Donetsk stepped up with important signing for the next season. The Ukrainian runner-up penned a one-year deal with point guard Vule Avdalovic (189-G-81, agency: Beo Basket). The 29-year-old Serbian spent last season in France and before that he played five years in Spain.
Vule Avdalovic spent 2010/11 with Cholet. He appeared 10 times in Euroleague with them averaging 8.5 points, 1.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists. In ProA, Avdalovic added 10.6 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 3.3 apg. Cholet reached the Finals, but failed to defend the title in thriller against Nancy. Before Cholet, Avdalovic played for Alicante in Spain.
From 2005 to 2009, Vule Avdalovic was a member of Pamesa Valencia. In 2009, he was named Eurobasket.com All-Eurocup Honorable Mention. Three years before that, Avdalovic was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB Bosman Player of the Year. In the past, Avdalovic spent couple of years with Partizan Belgrade winning many trophies and personal awards with them. Avdalovic also was a member of the Serbian National Team from 2001 to 2006.

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


Angelopoulos Bros leave Olympiakos - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Our site, in order to present the today's subject that caused a shock both to Greek and European basketball from all its aspects, presents hereby the official announcement of Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus ex (?) owners, leaving whichever comments to our readers:
The announcement:
We got involved in Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus BC exclusively out of love for the club and for basketball. We never sought any business profit, publicity or other benefit whatsoever. In 2004 we decided to financially support Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus without any return or guarantees. In the summer of 2006 we took over the management and in July 2009 we acquired the shares of Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus BC.
During these years many things have happened that we are proud of:
- Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus regained its credibility in the basketball world, nationally and internationally.
- We invested in top notch players and first rank coaches; thus, after many years, the team became highly competitive and is generally accepted as ranking amongst the best European clubs.
- The team participated, after many years, in two consecutive Euroleague Final Four and, after 13 years, in the final of the 2010 competition. It scored a record number of wins in the Greek league twice (2009 and 2011) - it actually came through undefeated in this year's regular season - and won two Greek cups.
- Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus BC paid to the State for taxes alone a total amount of approximately 50 million USD; we wonder if there is any other team which has paid to the IRS any such amount of money in the last 20 years...

All these years we chose and consistently followed a specific path, very different from the one of our opponents.
- It is our conscious decision not to be involved in any way whatsoever in behind-the-door mechanisms controlling and influencing circumstances, teams and championships. We did not want to do it and did not do it. As far as we are concerned, any success which is the result of manipulations and referee favoritism is not a real success. End of story.
- It is our conscious decision to communicate with basketball authorities (State, Hellenic Basketball Federation/EOK, Central Refereeing Committee/KED, Hellenic Basketball League/ESAKE) directly, openly under our name and through official channels only.
- It is our conscious decision to reject the model of creating, financing and supporting team-associated press or influencing any media; instead our interaction with journalists has remained at a strictly professional level without commitments and dependencies.
- It is our conscious decision our relations with the fans of Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus to remain healthy and in a context of mutual respect.
- It is our conscious decision to do everything in our powers in an effort to contribute in the quashing of violence, wherever its origin. This year, we, with the support of our fans, succeeded.

Once again this year the decisions of the referees and the usual manipulations determined the champion. One does not even know where to start or end when it comes to the Greek refereeing establishment... Not only those who have repeatedly and flagrantly wronged Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus have never been punished, but are on the contrary rewarded and provocatively promoted. It is no wonder that they have become audacious to such incredible levels as the world record of 18 versus 2 free throws during the second period of the second final at a point when Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus had a 10-point lead!
The last game of this year's finals has taken place under conditions which should not have even allowed it to start in the first place: inadequate security measures, thousands of fans entered illegally without ticket, security zones violated, masked persons and henchmen presented behind the team benches and the officials desk in full TV-broadcasted view under the tolerance of the police, and as a highlight the unmanly and unprecedented criminal attack against the players and coaches of our team.
We are not going to shift our responsibilities to anybody. We have never done so and we are not going to do so now. During our trail we have certainly made mistakes. We have been criticized many times. Criticism made in good faith, even harsh, has never disturbed us. With regard to unethical attacks, the only way available is to resort to justice.
This is our philosophy, what dictates our actions. We are proud that throughout the years that Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus was under our leadership we have never forfeited our values.
During our trail we have demanded the self-evidence, namely legality, equal treatment and transparency. We intervened and protested in public and made specific proposals.
During all these years we are fighting off a system that reacts tenaciously and undermines persistently our efforts to achieve what our team and fans deserve.
Taking into account all the above and having exhausted all options which are consistent with morality, legal order and common sense, feeling disgusted, we step out, pain heartedly, from our team, Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus, and the Greek basketball.
We would like to thank all those that during all these years believed in us, supported us and fought with us.'

Krka hires Nenad Trajkovic as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
Krka got a new Head Coach for the next season. The team hired Serbian coach Nenad Trajkovic to replace his countryman Aleksandar Dzikic (agency: Beo Basket ), who left for Lietuvos Rytas. Coach Ned heads to Krka from the NBA Team Phoenix Suns, where he worked as Assistant Coach (players development). He worked as AC of Lottomatica Roma in 2009.
Nenad Trajkovic was a Head Coach of the Latvian National Team in 2008. As a HC, Trajkovic also worked with BC Banjalucka Pivara in 2003/04. From 1999 to 2001, Trajkovic was HC of Partizan Belgrade. In the past he also worked as HC of Sloga Kraljevo and Borac Cacak. In 2003, Trajkovic was coaching Iranian National Team. They won the fifth place at the Asian Championship in China.
Nenad Trajkovic will have a very difficult job with Krka, who had wonderful last season. They will compete in Euroleague Qualifying Round.

Armani Jeans Milano lands floor general Omar Cook - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Armani Jeans Milano announced signing of the floor general Omar-Sharif Cook (186-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) for the next season. The 29-year-old American/Montenegrin heads to Milano from Power Electronics Valencia. He was targeted by Efes Pilsen and Galatasaray, but it seems AJ Milano made the best offer to the player.
Omar-Sharif Cook joined Valencia last summer from Unicaja. In Spanish league he had 6.4ppg, 2.4rpg, Assists-2 (5.4apg), Steals-1 (2.2spg), FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 27.4%, FT: 81.0%. In Euroleague after 21 games his stats read 8.0ppg, 2.4rpg, Assists-2 (5.6apg), Steals-4 (1.8spg), FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 79.1%. Valencia reached Euroleague Quarterfinals and was close to eliminate Real Madrid.
In 2008-2009 for Omar joined Unicaja Malaga (Spain-ACB, starting five) and in Spanish League averaged 6.1ppg, 1.5rpg, 4.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 73.1%. In Euroleague after 16 games his stats read 5.6ppg, 1.9rpg, Assists-2 (5.1apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 32.1%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 75.0%. In 2009-2010 for Unicaja Malaga (Spain-ACB, starting five) in Spanish League he improved to 8.6ppg, 1.4rpg, Assists-1 (5.7apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 85.1% and in Euroleague showed 9.7ppg, 1.8rpg, Assists-1 (5.9apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 79.4%.
Only last year Omar became Spanish ACB Supercup Finalist -11, Spanish Cup (Copa del Rey) Semifinals -11, Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Honorable Mention -11, Eurobasket.com Euroleague All-Defensive Team -11, Euroleague Quarterfinals -11, Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB Defensive Player of the Year -11, Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB 3rd Team -11.
In the past, Omar cook played for Crvena Zvezda, Samara and Dexia Mons-Hainaut. He was Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Guard of the Year -08 with Crvena Zvezda.

Asseco Prokom to keep coach Pacesas - by Eurobasket News
According to 'Gazeta Wyborcza', Tomas Pacesas will continue as a Head Coach of the Polish powerhouse Asseco Prokom. Reportedly, they already agreed an extension, but the club will have lower budget than the last season.
Tomas Pacesas started his coaching career as an AC with Prokom in 2007. After one year, he was promoted to HC position. Pacesas led Asseco Prokom to Euroleague Quarterfinals in 2010. As Head Coach, Pacesas won three consecutive titles in Poland. He also has one as an assistant (2008). That same year Prokom also won the Polish Cup. Last season, they defended the PLK title after 76-71 win against Turow in decisive Game Seven of the Finals. Prokom was the regular season champion with 17-5 record.

Budivelnyk signs Rolandas Alijevas - by Eurobasket News
Rolandas Alijevas (192-G-85) is a new member of Budivelnyk. The Lithuanian guard arrives from Rudupis Prienu, where he finished last season. He joined them in April averaging 8.3 points, 3.1 rebounds and 4.3 assists for 7 games in LKL. Alijevas started the season with Nevezis. He played 20 games for them in Baltic league collecting 12.4 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 4.8 apg. Alijevas also added 14.9 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 5.9 apg for 23 games in LKL. He finished the season as No.1 in assists. Eurobasket awarded Alijevas with Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LKL Guard of the Year -11. He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Baltic League Guard of the Year -11.
Rolandas Alijevas changed three teams in 2009/10 season. He started with Greek Olimpia Larissa and in February of 2010 moved to Nevezis. After few games Alijevas agreed a deal with German Phoenix Hagen. In the past, he also played for Krka, Zalgiris, Samara, Polonia Warszawa, Boncourt and ASVEL.

ESL Chicago begins on Thursday at Attack Athletics in Chicago - by Darryl Reshaw

Eurobasket Summer League (ESL) 2011 is proud to present the #1 summer professional exposure event for the international basketball community.

The Eurobasket Summer League 2011 first event is June 30th July 2nd at Attack Athletics in Chicago.

This is the fourth (4th) year the ESL has been featured at Attack Athletics the facility where you will see many NBA stars training.

Coach Aurimas Matulevicius s returning to coach the ESL Chicago event after scouting the event in the summer of 2008.

As a result he took four ESL players back to Lithuania to play for Panevezys Techasas in the LKL in the Baltic League in the 2008-09 season.

Aurimas was one of the youngest coaches in the Lithuanian and Baltic League.

This summer he will be scouting for several teams in the Ukraine, Lithuania and Russian leagues as well as coaching a team in the event.

Jay Bradford the current coach of the Gary Splash of the IBL will be coaching and scouting in the ESL Chicago and Las Vegas event as well.

Tunde Adekola who has coached in Germany the past couple of season will appear at the ESL event as a coach and a scout for teams in Germany and Europe.

Donnie Boyce the former NBA and overseas player who coached for the Reno Bighorns in the NBDL will be one of our featured coaches.

Steve Taylor the voice of the ESL will be back to defend his ESL Championship and to promote his coaching skills for European teams.

Robert Conley (6'6''-G/F-77, college: Clayton St.) the standout European professional player will be scouting for various European teams and will be a featured coach at the ESL event.

Darryl Reshaw the ESL Director will be scouting the event for over 30 European teams.

He is a former European player and agent who spent over twenty years in Europe and negotiated over 300 basketball employment contracts.

He will be looking for talent for various European clubs and agencies.



The Game Schedule is as follows:

June 30th: G1 - 1pm; G2 2:30pm; G3 4:00pm; G4 5:30pm

July 1st: G5 12pm; G6 1:30pm; G7 3pm; G8 4:30pm

July 2nd: G9 11am; G10 12:30pm; G11 2pm; G12 3:30pm



For more information please email marketing@eurobasket.com or register on www.eurobasketsummerleague.com





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


USA wins the Gold in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
FINAL
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.

Places 3-4
Canada - Puerto Rico 86-65
Canada won the Bronze in Cancun. They outplayed Puerto Rico 86-65 to win this medal at the U16 FIBA Americas championship. Thanks to this victory Canada also booked a spot for the next U17 FIBA World championship. Canada had six players with double-digits in scoring. The leading one was Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G) with 16 pts. Patrick Steeves (95) had 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Christopher McComber (95) added 11 pts and 15 rebs. In the loosing squad, William Cruz (180-G-95) delivered 18 points and Jairo Velez (95) stopped to 11 pts.
Canada had wonderful beginning as they made 26-7 lead in the first ten minutes. They continued with 14-11 after that and 23-16 in Q3. At that time it was already clear that Canada will take the Bronze at this event. They slowed down after that and Puerto Rico made 23-31 in the last ten minutes. Of course, that was not enough even for a small treat and Canada celebrated valuable 86-65 victory at the end.

Places 5-6
Chile - Brazil 54-62
Brazil was better than Chile 62-54 winning the fifth place in Cancun. Brazil ended the U16 FIBA Americas championship with two wins. Chile is No.6 at this event. Lucas Dias (96) shined in Brazil with double-double of 14 points and 15 rebounds. Luis Ricci (95) scored 10, while Humberto Gomes (96) and Lucas Garcia (95) netted 9 points each. In defeat, Martin Pino (95) collected 14 points and 7 rebounds. Matias Sepulveda (96) and Ricardo Cardenas (95) had 13 and 11 points respectively.
Brazil dominated in the second and last quarter, what was enough for the victory at the end. Chile started with 12-9 and Brazil made 7-15 in the second period. Chile was better in Q3 again (21-18) and everything was still open. However, Lucas Dias and his teammates shined when it mattered most and finished last period with 14-20 for the final 54-62 victory.

Places 7-8
Costa Rica - Mexico 66-76
Mexico avoided last place at the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. They outplayed Costa Rica 76-66 for the first victory at this event. Costa Rica on the other side, finished as No.8 winless. Omar De Haro (95) shined for the hosts with 24 points and 7 rebounds. Bryan Rivera (95) followed him with 20 points and 7 boards. Third scorer in victory was Uriel Beltran (96) with 9 points. CRC got 24 points and 12 rebounds from Milton Jimenez (95). Adrian Chavarria (96) scored 13 and Henry Sanchez (95) added three points less.
Mexico started the game with 15-19 lead. However, Costa Rica replied with 19-15 in Q2 tying the score at the HT. Mexico drastically improved after the breather making 16-24 in Q3. They won the last quarter as well (16-18) for the final 66-76 victory.

*****************************************************
  FINLAND   


U20 Serbia defeats U20 Finland, Nemanja Nedovic MVP in Ancona - by Eurobasket News
U20 Serbia - U20 Finland 75-71

Sunday was the last day of the friendly tournament in Ancona. U20 Serbia was better than U20 Finland 75-71 winning the second place. On the other side, Finland finished this tournament on the last place. Branislav Djekic (207-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Dusan Ognjenovic (216-C-91) stepped up for Serbia with 17 points each. Actually, they were only two players with double-digits in victory. Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Nemanja Jaramaz (201-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) stopped to 9 points each. In Finland, Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) shined with 17 points. Antto Nikkarinen (185-G-91) netted two points less. Quarters: 18-8, 21-24, 16-13, 20-26. As mentioned above, Serbia ended as No.2, while Finland is No.4 in Ancona. Italy won the tour, while Croatia finished on third place.
Nemanja Nedovic was named MVP of the tournament. He was also the first scorer with 48 points in three games. Nedovic and Branislav Djekic are named to best five.

Serbia: Branislav Djekic 17, Dusan Ognjenovic 17, Nemanja Nedovic 9, Nemanja Jaramaz 9
Finland: Carl Lindbom 17, Antto Nikkarinen 15

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


Pau-Orthez lands Mustafa Shakur - by Eurobasket News
Pau-Orthez announced signing of Mustafa Shakur (190-G-84, college: Arizona) to a one-season deal. The American point guard is back to Europe after two years. Shakur split last season between Rio Grande Valley Vipers and Washington Wizards. He appeared 22 times in NBA with the Wizards registering 2.3 ppg, 1 rpg and 1.1 apg. With the Vipers he had 16.7 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 5 apg and 1.9 spg for 23 games in D-League. Season 2009/10, Shakur spent with Tulsa 66ers. He had 19 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 6.7 apg and 2.2 spg for them in 51 D-League games.
Mustafa Shakur played for Tau Ceramica and Panellinios on season 2008/09. With Tau he had 5.5 ppg, 1.3 rpg and 1.3 apg for 10 Euroleague games. They parted ways in January of 2009, when Shakur joined Panellinios. There he had 6.3 ppg and 1.2 apg for 6 EuroCup games. In the past, Shakur also spent one year with Prokom Trefl Sopot.

Gravelines inks Andrew Albicy for the next two years - by Eurobasket News
Andrew Albicy (178-G-90) is a new member of Gravelines. The French prospect signed a two-year deal with the club.
Andrew Albicy spent last couple of years with Paris-Levallois. He played 30 games for them in ProA last season averaging 11.1 points, 1.8 rebounds and 4.5 assists. It was a nice improvement for the young PG, who had much lower digits in 2009/10.
Andrew Albicy was a member of the French NT last summer in Turkey. He had 3.2 ppg and 1 apg for 6 games at this event. Head Coach of the French NT Vincent Collet announced that Albicy will be a replacement this summer. He will jump to the 12-man squad in case of injuries. Albicy paced U20 France to Gold at the U20 EuroBasket last summer in Croatia. He had 12.3 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 5.9 apg for 9 games. He also played for U19, U18 and U16 France in the past.
Andrew Albicy withdrawn from the NBA Draft 2011 earlier this month.

Nancy brings in Jamal Shuler - by Eurobasket News
According to www.estrepublicain.fr, Sluc Nancy signed a new player for the next season. Reportedly, the French outfit inked a one-year deal with Jamal Shuler (191-G-86). The American guard arrives to Nancy from JA Vichy, where he spent last season. He averaged 16 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.4 steals for 30 games in ProA. Shuler helped Vichy reach the French Cup Semifinals.
Before Vichy, Jamal Shuler spent two years with TBB Trier. In 2009/10, he registered 13.3 ppg, 5 rpg and 2.1 apg for 33 games in 1.Bundesliga. In their first season together, Shuler had 9.1 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 1.5 apg.
Jamal Shuler is a product of the Virginia Commonwealth University, where he graduated in 2008. For 32 games as a senior he had 15.5 ppg and 4.7 rpg.

Saint Quentin signs Jimmal Ball until 2013 - by Eurobasket News
Saint Quentin announced signing of a two-year deal with Jimmal Ball (178-G-78, agency: ACMT, college: Akron). The American/French guard heads to his new team from Paris-Levallois, where he played last three years. Last season Ball had 6 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 3.5 apg for 29 games in ProA. He also added 5 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 2.5 apg for two games in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round. His first season with Paris-Levallois was the best one for Ball. At that time he had 11.8 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 4.7 apg. They were regular season champions in ProB (2009) and earned a spot for ProA. Ball was named Eurobasket.com All-French ProB Player of the Year -07.
Before Paris-Levallois, Jimmal Ball played two years for Vichy. He also has experience from Cholet, Roanne and German Ludwigsburg.

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


FYR Macedonian U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Apostoli Apostolov
Apostolov
Vladimir Dikovski
Dikovski
Goran Markovski
Markovski
Stojan Gjuroski
Gjuroski
Lazar Petrov
Petrov
#e#5
4 Apostoli Apostolov 183-G-91 Kozuv FYR Macedonia
5 Vladimir Dikovski 192-F-91 Torus Skopje FYR Macedonia
6 Goran Markovski 193-G-92 Torus Skopje FYR Macedonia
7 Dzaner Osman 190-G-91 Bosna Bosnia
8 Marjan Todorov 189-G/F-91 Rabotnicki FYR Macedonia
9 Nenad Stankov 192-F/C-92 Rabotnicki FYR Macedonia
10 Dimitar Delipetrov 200-C-92 Feni Indistrija FYR Macedonia
11 Stojan Gjuroski 201-F-91 Louisiana Tech USA
12 Lazar Petrov 209-C-91 Vardar FYR Macedonia
13 Nikola Gajdadjiev 193-G-92 Levski Bulgaria
14 Nikola Gogovchevski 93
15 Andrej Biljanovski 196-F-91 Vardar FYR Macedonia
16 Darko Dimkovski 190-G-91 MZT Skopje FYR Macedonia
17 Stefan Krstevski 93



*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   


Georgian U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Georgian U20 National Team 2011
#s#
Givi Bakradze
Bakradze
Beka Bekauri
Bekauri
Merab Bokolishvili
Bokolishvili
Beqa Chikviladze
Chikviladze
Davit Dekanoidze
Dekanoidze
#e#5
Givi Bakradze 185-PG-91 Army Georgia
Beka Bekauri 207-C-91 Samedicino Georgia
Merab Bokolishvili 198-G-92 Air AV Italy
Beqa Chikviladze 195-G-91 GTU Tbilisi Georgia
Davit Dekanoidze 200-F-91 MIA Tbilisi Georgia
Akaki Dvalishvili 206-C/F-90 Canarias Bball Ac. Spain
Levan Eliadze 197-F-92 Batumi Georgia
Goga Javakhshvili 200-C/F-92 GSAU Tbilisi Georgia
Giorgi Koguashvili 194-G-92
Ioseb Lezhava 185-PG-91 Samedicino Georgia
Avtandili Lominashvili 204-C-92 Kutaisi Georgia
Akaki Lomouri 198-F-91 GTU Tbilisi Georgia
Zurab Machaladze 198-F-92 GTU Tbilisi Georgia
Kakhaber Mumladze 201-F/C-92 GSAU Tbilisi Georgia
Giorgi Revazashvili 208-C-91 Maccabi Tbilisi Georgia
Duda Sanadze 196-G/F-92 Batumi Georgia
Tornike Shengelia 207-G/F-91 Verviers-Pep. Belgium
Tariel Tavartkiladze 193-PG-91 Samedicino Georgia
Nodar Tenieshvili 198-F-92 Samedicino Georgia
Giorgi Tetelashvili 192-PG-92 GSAU Tbilisi Georgia



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


BG Karlsruhe Sign Johannes Lange And Michael Stockton - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

BG Karlsruhe have found two new pieces for the 2011-2012 season by bringing in Johannes Lange (208-C-85) and Michael Stockton (185-G-89, agency: Limelight Hoops) Lange is a 25 year old 208cm center that has 6 years of Second Bundesliga experience and two years of PRO B experience. Lange sees the chance with BG Karlsruhe as a new start. 'I thought I would have a totally different kind of season with Osnabrueck. I will take this new chance and concentrate totally on basketball. I signed only a one year contract to totally know where I stand', stressed Johannes lange. Lange started his basketball career with SOBA Dragons Rhoendorf in 2003 and played there until 2010.Last season, he played for GiroLive-Ballers Osnabrueck (ProA): 22 games: 3.9ppg, 2.1rpg. 'I think Joe can still develop further. With his movement, he can be inserted into both big man positions. I see him as playing 20 minutes even if he is seen only as a backup', stressed BG Karlsruhe coach Tino Stumpf. Awards/Achievements in his careerhave been German U16 National Team -01, German 1.Bundesliga Rookie All-Star Game -04, German U20 National Team -04-05, German Rookie All-Stars Game -05, European Championships U20 in Moscow -05: 6 games: 1.7ppg, 1.8rpg, and German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Champion -10.

BG Karlsruhe also signed Michael Stockton to a two year contract. Stockton is a 22 year old 185cm guard from Spokane, Washington who happens to be the son of NBA legend John Stockton who played catch with Karl the mailman Malone for many years with the Utah Jazz. Stockton got basketball experience playing for Westminster (NAIA). 'Mike may not be as fast as his father, but his strengthis his passing which makes every team stronger. We are convinced that we have found the team player that we were looking for', stressed BG Karlsruhe manager Torsten Daume.

Source: BG Karlsruhe

Germany U20 won the International tournament in Oberwart - by Eurobasket News
Germany U20-Slovenia U20 70:66 (11:17, 16:12, 17:16, 26:21)

Germany U20 won the International tournament in Oberwart with 4 participating teams. In the last decisive game the German side won over Slovenia U20 to finish with three victories. The latter finished second with 2-1 record suffering the only defeat from the winners.
It was Slovenia to go on a lead after the first ten minutes. The team grabbed 17-11 at the end of the frame, but could not stay in front. Germany reduced to 2 points at the halftime after 16-12 win in the second period. Moreover the took the lead in the 34th minute when they enjoyed 53:51 advantage. In the last period Slovenia had 67:66 lead but Mathis Monninghoff and Patrick Heckmann (198-F/G-92) sealed the victory for the German side.
Daniel Theis (207-C-92) stepped up with 18 points for the winners, while Patrick Heckmann netted 14. Mathis Monnninghoff netted 10 and Malte Ziegenhagen (193-G-91) brought 8.


Samy Picard Stays With TBB Trier - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
TBB Trier continues to build on keeping a healthy team chemistry instead of changing players each season as another player with Samy Picard (195-F-88) was given a contract extension. Picard is a 23 year old 198 cm forward from Luxemburg that will play his third season with TBB Trier. Last season, Picard played 25 games averaging 2,8ppg, 0,9rpg and 0,1apg.TBB Trier head coach Henrik Rodl knows from experience that having intact teams and guys that know each other on and off the court for years gives the team a better chance of winning. 'I am very happy that we can have Samy for another season. He showed in the second half of the beko BBL season that he can play at that level', stressed TBB Trier coach Henrik Rodl. In the first 16 games, Picard only played 10 or more minutes three times, but in the last nine games the Luxemburg guard played 10 or more minutes eight times and seemed more of a fixture in the rotation of Henrik Rodl. The best game of Picard last season was a 11 point, three rebound effort against the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf.

Source: Basketballnews.lu

Rich Melzer Retruns To The beko BBL Joining The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
After a very brief intermezzo with teh Artland Dragons in 2007-2008, Rich Melzer (203-F/C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Wisc.-RiverFal.) returns to the beko BBL in 2011 joining the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig.Melzer is a 31 year old 203cm forward that was born in Minneapolis,Minnesota and will replace Mr Euroleague Marcus Goree (201-F-77, college: W.Virginia) this season. Last season, Melzer played in Israel for Hapoel Holon playing 30 games: 16.8ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 75.3%. 'Rich Melzer is a a very versatile player that willhelp us with his world wide basketball experience', added Braunschweig manager Oliver Braun . This will be the 13th basketball station for the American and second in Germany. 'I can very well remember the preseason that Rich Melzer took part in with the Artland Dragons. He is a very well trained player that understands how to play with his back to the hoop, but can also shot from outside the zone. But he also knows what to do on defense', stated Braunschweig assistant coach Philipp Kochling.

Melzer started his basketball career in 2000 with Wisconsim-River Falls (NCAA3) where he played until 2004. He started the 2004-2005 season with the Washington Wizards (NBA) pre-season camp: waived in Oct.'04, next month signed at Sioux Falls Skyforce (CBA, starting five): 47 games: 9.0ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 43%, 3Pts: 39.8%. In 2005-2006 he played for San Carlos (Dominican Republic-District National) and for the New Zealand Breakers (New Zealand-NBL): 25 games: 18.6ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.5spg, 1.4bpg, FG: 46%, 3Pt: 31%, FT: 66%, in March'06 moved to Albuquerque Thunderbirds (D-League). In 2006-2007, he played for Adecco ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne (France-ProA, starting five) as the temporary replacement for injured Brian Greene: 6 games: 11.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 73.3%, played also at JL Bourg Basket (France-ProA): 3 games: 10.3ppg, 2.7rpg, in Jan.'07 moved to Gilboa/Afula/Migdal Haemek (Israel-Premier League, starting five): 16 games: 13.4ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 59.6%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 76.5%. In 2007-2008, heplayed for the Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck (Germany-1.Bundesliga): ULEB Cup: 2 games: 5.5ppg, 2.0rpg; German League: 1 game: 11pts, 2reb, 1steal. He sat out the 2008-2009 season and in the 2009-2010 season, he played for the Skytrans Cairns Taipans (Australia-NBL, starting five): 28 games: 10.9ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 37.7%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 73.2%, in Apr.'10 moved to Rio Grande Valley Vipers (D-League): 10 games: 5.6ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 75.0%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have beenAll-NCAA3 1st Team -04, CBA Western Conference Champion -05, CBA Champion -05, Dominican Rep. District National Regular Season Champion -05, All-National District Tournament Player of the Year -05, All-National District Tournament 1st Team -05, D-League Regular Season Runner-Up -06
D-League Champion -06, 10, German Bundesliga Cup Winner -08, German Bundesliga Regular Season Runner-Up -08, and Israeli Premier League All-Star Game -11.

Source: NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig

Monyea Pratt Stays With USC Leipzig - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
After leading USC Leipzig from the Regionaliga to the PRO A in the last two years,Monyea Pratt (196-F-85, college: Stillman) will return and give his best in the PRO A in 2011-2012. Pratt is a 25 year old 196cm forward from Birmingham,Alabama and last season played 24 games: 18.1ppg, Reb-3 (9.5rpg), Assists-3 (5.9apg), Steals-2 (3.4spg), 1.1bpg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 56.3%. 'Despite other offers, Pratt wanted to stay in Leipzig. 'It wasnt a difficult decsion to renew my contract. My heart beats for the team and I have loyalty for the team', stressed Monyea Pratt (196-F-85, college: Stillman). Even though the team reached the PRO A, Pratt wants that the team continue to develop. 'I am awaiting even a better effort from the team this season. The most important is that everybody works hard', added Monyea Pratt (196-F-85, college: Stillman). This will be the fourth season in Germany for Pratt after coming from Stillman (NCAA2) in 2007.

Source: USC Leipzig

Daniel Hain Moves To The Telekom Baskets Bonn - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
After four years playing for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg, Daniel Hain (195-G/F-85) will start a new challenge with the Telekom Baskets Bonn this season. Hain is a 25 year old 195cm guard/forward that will be inserted at the guard positions. Last season with Oldenburg, the German played EuroCup: 6 games: 0.5ppg, 1.0rpg; German League: 26 games: 1.3ppg, 1.0rpg. His strongest game in the beko BBl last year was against EnBW Ludwigsburg scoring five points, grabbing four rebounds and dishing out two assists. 'With his size and athletic ability, he will help us much. He does a good job on defense, but also can play offene. We are really happy to be able to welcome him into our program. He has a lot of experience and can get a lot of playing time due to his high intensity on the court. He still can develop and this was one of the reasons that we got him', stressed Bonn coach Michael Koch . Hain started his basketball career with ETB Essen (2.Bundesliga) in 2003. he then played for the Hertener Lowen from 2004-2007. He played a total of 95 beko BBL games for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg, nine Euroleague games, six Eurocup games and five Eurochallenge games.

Source: Telekom Baskets Bonn



Ben Hansbrough signs with FC Bayern Munich - by Eurobasket News
Ben Hansbrough (190-G-87) got his first professional job. The American guard signed a one-year deal with FC Bayern Munich. He graduated few months ago at Notre Dame averaging 18.4 points, 3.9 rebounds and 4.3 assists in 34 games. Hansbrough helped his school to reach Big Ten Semifinals and was awarded with All-Big East Player of the Year -11. In 2007 and 2009, Notre Dame played in the NIT Final Four. As a junior, Hansbrough had 12 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 4.4 apg.

'I got a great offer. It's just something that I couldn't pass up. I feel good about it', said for www.aol.sportingnews.com

FC Bayern Munich will compete in 1.Bundesliga next season.

Ben Hansbrough Will Commence His Professional Basketball Career In Style With FC Bayern Munich - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Names have been circling in the FC Bayern Munich rumour soup for months, but for the Bayern team to fetch an NCAA senior was possibily a bit of a surprise, but the club didnt shy away from getting the 2011 Big East player of the year with Ben Hansbrough (190-G-87) giving him a one year deal. Hansbrough is a 23 year old 190 cm guard from Poplar Bluff, Missouri. Hanbrough didnt get drafted and had many offers from teams and instead of waiting for training camps in the fall and the uncertanty of a NBA lock out blooming soon, the American decided to head overseas. Hansbrough played at the famous Notre Dame in Indiana and let the fighting Irish to a 27-7 record in his senior year and played 34 games: 18.4ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 81.5%. 'I got a great offer and it is something that I couldnt pass up. I feel good about it', stressed Ben Hansbrough (190-G-87). Hansbrough will join former Notre Dame players like Zach Hillesland and Rob Kurz who played in the beko BBL last season. Hansbrough started his basketball career at Mississippi St. in 2006 where he played until 2008 before transfering to Notre Dame. In the 2007-2008 season, he played 30 games: 10.5ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3Pts: 35.8%, FT: 78.9%. After getting much interest from NBA teams, the American still has that dream of playing in the NBA some day. It wasnt easy not hearing his name called. 'It was tough at first feeling like I should hear my name called. But I cant change anything about it. For now, I embrace a chance to go make some money', stated ben Hansbrough. Awards/Achievements in his career so far have been SEC Western Division Runner-Up -07, SEC Tournament Semifinals -07, 08, SEC All-Freshman Team -07SEC Eastern Division Regular Season Champion -08, NIT Final Four -07, 09, Big East Tournament Semifinals -10, 11, Big East Regular Season Runner-Up -11, All-Big East Player of the Year -11, All-Big East 1st Team -11, NABC Division I All-District 5 1st Team -11, and USBasket.com All-NCAA D1 2nd Team -11.

Source: wsbt.com

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  GREECE   


Spartak SP is targeting Loukas Mavrokefalides - by Eurobasket News
Spartak SP is targeting Loukas Mavrokefalides (207-C-84) for the next season. The Russian team is ready to play the salary which is twice higher thatn in Greece for his Olympiakos.
For Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus (A1) Loukas Mavrokefalides started in 2007 and in Euroleague after 10 games averaged 4.1ppg, 3.4rpg. In Greek League Regular Season his stats read 3.2ppg, 2.4rpg. In 2008-2009 the Greek Center moved to Costa Cafe Marousi (A1, starting five) and in Eurocup had12.3ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 77.3%, while in Greek League showed 12.0ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 83.0%. In 2009-2010 moved back to Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus (Greece, A1) and in Euroleague after 14 games showed 5.4ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 63.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 56.0%. In Greek League after 29 games Loukas avearged 6.9ppg, 2.5rpg, FGP: 62.8%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 85.7%. Last season for Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus (A1, starting five) he improved to 8.4ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 79.4% in EuroLeague and in Greek League had 9.8ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 55.2%, FT: 80.8%.
Only in the last few seasonLoukas Mavrokefalides reached Euroleague Quarterfinals -08, 11. became Greek League Finalist -08, 10, 11, Greek League All-Star Game -09, 10, 11, Greek League Semifinals -09, Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League 2nd Team -09, Greek Cup Winners -10, Euroleague Finalist -10, Greek Cup Winner -10, 11, Greek National Team -10. Last season he was awarded Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League Most Improved Player of the Year -11 and became Greek League Regular Season Champion -11.



Angelopoulos Bros leave Olympiakos - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Our site, in order to present the today's subject that caused a shock both to Greek and European basketball from all its aspects, presents hereby the official announcement of Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus ex (?) owners, leaving whichever comments to our readers:
The announcement:
We got involved in Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus BC exclusively out of love for the club and for basketball. We never sought any business profit, publicity or other benefit whatsoever. In 2004 we decided to financially support Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus without any return or guarantees. In the summer of 2006 we took over the management and in July 2009 we acquired the shares of Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus BC.
During these years many things have happened that we are proud of:
- Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus regained its credibility in the basketball world, nationally and internationally.
- We invested in top notch players and first rank coaches; thus, after many years, the team became highly competitive and is generally accepted as ranking amongst the best European clubs.
- The team participated, after many years, in two consecutive Euroleague Final Four and, after 13 years, in the final of the 2010 competition. It scored a record number of wins in the Greek league twice (2009 and 2011) - it actually came through undefeated in this year's regular season - and won two Greek cups.
- Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus BC paid to the State for taxes alone a total amount of approximately 50 million USD; we wonder if there is any other team which has paid to the IRS any such amount of money in the last 20 years...

All these years we chose and consistently followed a specific path, very different from the one of our opponents.
- It is our conscious decision not to be involved in any way whatsoever in behind-the-door mechanisms controlling and influencing circumstances, teams and championships. We did not want to do it and did not do it. As far as we are concerned, any success which is the result of manipulations and referee favoritism is not a real success. End of story.
- It is our conscious decision to communicate with basketball authorities (State, Hellenic Basketball Federation/EOK, Central Refereeing Committee/KED, Hellenic Basketball League/ESAKE) directly, openly under our name and through official channels only.
- It is our conscious decision to reject the model of creating, financing and supporting team-associated press or influencing any media; instead our interaction with journalists has remained at a strictly professional level without commitments and dependencies.
- It is our conscious decision our relations with the fans of Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus to remain healthy and in a context of mutual respect.
- It is our conscious decision to do everything in our powers in an effort to contribute in the quashing of violence, wherever its origin. This year, we, with the support of our fans, succeeded.

Once again this year the decisions of the referees and the usual manipulations determined the champion. One does not even know where to start or end when it comes to the Greek refereeing establishment... Not only those who have repeatedly and flagrantly wronged Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus have never been punished, but are on the contrary rewarded and provocatively promoted. It is no wonder that they have become audacious to such incredible levels as the world record of 18 versus 2 free throws during the second period of the second final at a point when Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus had a 10-point lead!
The last game of this year's finals has taken place under conditions which should not have even allowed it to start in the first place: inadequate security measures, thousands of fans entered illegally without ticket, security zones violated, masked persons and henchmen presented behind the team benches and the officials desk in full TV-broadcasted view under the tolerance of the police, and as a highlight the unmanly and unprecedented criminal attack against the players and coaches of our team.
We are not going to shift our responsibilities to anybody. We have never done so and we are not going to do so now. During our trail we have certainly made mistakes. We have been criticized many times. Criticism made in good faith, even harsh, has never disturbed us. With regard to unethical attacks, the only way available is to resort to justice.
This is our philosophy, what dictates our actions. We are proud that throughout the years that Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus was under our leadership we have never forfeited our values.
During our trail we have demanded the self-evidence, namely legality, equal treatment and transparency. We intervened and protested in public and made specific proposals.
During all these years we are fighting off a system that reacts tenaciously and undermines persistently our efforts to achieve what our team and fans deserve.
Taking into account all the above and having exhausted all options which are consistent with morality, legal order and common sense, feeling disgusted, we step out, pain heartedly, from our team, Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus, and the Greek basketball.
We would like to thank all those that during all these years believed in us, supported us and fought with us.'

Angelopoulos brothers leave Olympiacos - by Eurobasket News
According to Gazzeta.gr, brother Angelopoulos decided to leave the Greek giant Olympiacos. They informed the public today. The team is in deep financial crisis, what was just one of the reasons for Olympiacos owners to leave. Olympiacos was one of the teams with the biggest budgets over the past years, but the only competition where they managed to win trophies was the Greek Cup. Of course, their main goal over the past years was to win the Greek championship or Euroleague, but they didn't make it.
Bad news for the Greek and European basketball.

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  HOLLAND   


GB U20 Men defeat Netherlands and name final squad - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain's U20 Men squad collected back-to-back victories against the Netherlands this weekend in Bristol.

On Friday night GB won 98-80 behind 25 points from Devon Van Oostrum (189-G-93) and 18 from Ryan Richards (212-F-91, agency: Interperformances). Saturday night's game was a little bit tighter, but GB were eventually successful 60-55, with Richards again scoring 18 points.

Following the games, Head Coach Tim Lewis announced the 12 players that will make up the squad for the FIBA Europe U20 European Championship for Men Division B, which begins in Sarajevo on July 24. The squad is -

John Bantock (191-G) (England)
Alasdair Fraser (201-C-92) (Scotland)
Lee Goldsbrough (205-F-91) (England)
William Hall (201-G-91) (England)
Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) (England)
Alistair Mackay (208-C-91) (Scotland)
Levi Noel (197-G-91) (England)
Lee Reilly (182-G-92) (Scotland)
Ryan Richards (England)
William Harold Saunders (200-F-91) (England)
Adam Thoseby (196-F/G-91) (England)
Devon Van Oostrum (England)

The squad now faces two games against Denmark and two games against Belgium in Essex as their final warm ups for the European Championship.
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk



Holland U18 better Austria U18 in Wels - by Eurobasket News
Holland U18 better Austria U18 in Wels in two test games. At first the Dutch side celebrated 79:63 win. The guests started better and reached 47:35 at the halftime. They did not slow down and reached the necessary win in the first game. For Austria Markus Strohmayer (195-F-93) posted 13 points, while Bas and Wilk added 11 apiece. Vladimir Ljesevic (197-F-93) ended up with 8 and Albert Ngoy (178-G-93) scored 5.
On Sunday Holland U18 smashed Austria U18 100:51.It was a disaster for the hosts, that however trailed only 22:30 after 12th minute in the court. last the Dutch side pushed the tempo for good and reached 51:33 halftime advantage. In the second half the guests continued to dominate the court and rightfully won the campaign. For Austria Luka Gvozden (182-G-93) posted 11 points and Bas notched 10.



GasTerra Flames tabs Dutch NT-guard Bryan Defares - by Fred Roggen
GasTerra Flames has signed point guard Bryan Defares (192-G-81, college: Boise St.) to a one-year contract. Defares did not play last season.
Dutch NT-player Defares arrives from WCAA Giants, where he played in the 2009/2010 season and posted 8.6 points, 3.8 assists and 1.1 steals in 43 Dutch Basketball League games.
Bryan Defares has been well-traveled in recent years, suiting up for Peristeri Athens, AO Kolossos Rodou, Ase Doukas Athens in Greece, Farho Gijon in Spain, Newcastle Eagles in United Kingdom and Ammerud Basket in Norway before joining WCAA Giants.


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  HUNGARY   


Hungary U16 beats Austria U16 twice - by Eurobasket News
Hungary U16 beats Austria U16 twice at the Sporthalle Oberwart. In Day 1 Hungary had an easy 80:49 win. The guests took 22-11 in the opening period and added another victory in the second for 45:22 at the halftime. They had 67:33 after thirty minutes of the game and reached the easy win. Laszlo Fulop (197-F-95) stepped up with 17 points for the winners, while Boinitzer and Rujak scored 11 apiece. Poltl finished the game with 13 points for the home side and Wolf netted 10.
In Day 2 Austria U16 tries hard but lost 58:65. Papp paced all the winners with 11 points, Goloman scored 10 and Rujak netted 9. Richter and Wolf replied with 11 points in the losing effort, whilst Poltl scored 9. Pelc delivered 8, Soldo nailed 7 and Joakim Zimmerli produced 6 points.



Hungarian U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Janos Eilingsfeld
Eilingsfeld
Kristof Bajalinov
Bajalinov
Bence Delity
Delity
Zsolt Lakosa
Lakosa
Bence Biro
Biro
#e#5
Janos Eilingsfeld 198-F/C-91 PVSK Pannon Hungary
Kristof Bajalinov 183-G-91 DEAC Hungary
Bence Delity 193-G/F-92 ZTE KK Hungary
Zsolt Lakosa 194-G-91 MidAmerica Nazarene USA
Bence Biro 200-F/C-91 Kaposvari Hungary
Andras Madar 191-G-91 Albacomp Hungary
Gergely Kovacs 192-G-91
Bence Narai 206-F/C-92 Falco-Szova Hungary
Bence Molnar 190-G-91 Falco-Szova Hungary
Krisztian Bakk 197-F-94
Aron Moravcsik 186-G-91 Hegyvidek Hungary
Levente Juhos 206-F-91 Moberly JC USA

Peter Volgyi Head Coach Atomeromu Hungary
Attila Kiss Assistant


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  ICELAND   


Icelandic U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Icelandic U20 National Team 2011
#s#
Trausti Eiriksson
Eiriksson
Dadi Gretarsson
Gretarsson
Arnthor Gudmundsson
Gudmundsson
Ragnar Nathanaelsson
Nathanaelsson
Oddur Olafsson
Olafsson
#e#5
Trausti Eiriksson 206-F/C-91 Skallagrimur Iceland
Dadi Gretarsson 188-G-91 Armann Iceland
Arnthor Gudmundsson 187-G-91 Fjolnir Iceland
Ragnar Nathanaelsson 218-C-91 Hamar Iceland
Oddur Olafsson 183-PG-92 Birmingham Souther USA
Haukur Oskarsson 195-G-91 Haukar Iceland
Haukur Palsson 198-F-92 Maryland USA
Aegir Steinarsson 182-G-91 Newberry USA
Sigurdur Thorarinsson 200-C-91 Skallagrimur Iceland
Emil Barja 192-G-91 Haukar Iceland
Martin Hermannsson 180-G-94 KR Iceland
Tomas Tomasson 190-G-91 Newberry USA

Benedikt Gudmundsson Head Coach Thor Thorl Iceland


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  INDIA   


Suggestions on making basketball, a profession for Indians - by M. Rajalingam
India may not be a sport marketing market in a purist sense compared to America. We may be five to ten years behind. India is however a country where promotions are in huge demand.

It is an area that requires expertise and there is no professionalism in the industry due to which there have been several administrative problems. However, with newer players coming in, the situation is expected to change. Competition will become intense and healthy.

Thanks to the launch of IPL, which brought in the unexpected change in the way a game has to be promoted and popularized in our country.

Since the success of IPL in India, all the sports federations are coming up with an idea of launching a professional league in the respective sport.

With organizations like NBA and IMG venturing into basketball, we can hope to see a professional league to be launched very soon in India.

Here are some suggestions on making basketball, a profession for Indians. Lets learn it from our own godly game cricket. Heres the list of ideas that can be implemented to achieve the vision.

Start a league:

Start regular professional basketball leagues around the country at all levels, including school, college, corporate and club teams.

Pay the players:

Pay the players who play for the professional teams. Any work can be considered as a profession only if the person doing the work is paid for it. This will also motivate more players to take up the game.

Media management:

Rather than cursing the media, package the game according to the medias requirements. Because people are not going to follow your league in their favorite media, if it doesnt interests them.

On-ground activation:

Get into on-ground activation. You have to reach more people through various activities like games, contests etc, so that the people will get used to the game, and consider the game as a part of their life.

Promote the players:

Try to promote the players both in the media and in the community level. Build an iconic status for the basketball players. They should be the face of the game. How else, you can communicate to people to take up the game as a profession.

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  ISRAEL   


Eurobasket Exclusive: Coach Chris Finch Breaks Down Jon Scheyer - by David Pick
'Jon could play both guard spots. He feels comfortable at the 1 and 2 position and he does very well at both. Early on we used him to bring the ball up and later on we used him more on the wing to knock down shots and create for other people,' Rio Grande Valley Vipers Head Coach Chris Finch told 'Eurobasket', dissecting the Scheyer-mania.

A former professional basketball player himself, with 15 years of coaching experience under his belt, Fintch led Vipers to winning last season's D-League championship and this year's runner-up. Finch also coaches the Great Britain national team as he led his UK squad to the 2011 Eurobasket tournament dominating the offensive end. 'Eurobasket' exclusively brings you Coach Finch's scouting report.

Getting into NBA shape

Suffering from 'Mononucleosis' and an eye injury, Scheyer sat out the entire last season and failed to shine in the NBA summer workouts. Surprisingly, his comeback was made at the NBA Development League where he signed with the Houston Rockets secondary team posting averages of 13 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists over the course of 24 games. 'We were fortunate enough to have Jon come to our team; after his injury he did a smart thing which was not rushing back to play, rather took his time and got used to playing with glasses as opposed to rushing into things all at once. The D-League is highly scouted by NBA teams and I recall a number of conversations with NBA people and associates regarding Jon's development and progress as everyone was interested to see how he was doing.'

One of Scheyer's most memorable high school basketball performances came during his senior year, when he scored 21 points in the final 75 seconds of a game. However, defense has now become the interesting issue, 'NBA people were interested to know how he was guarding in terms of quickness under the different rules of the game so he was highly monitored.'

Joining Maccabi T.A.

Scheyer, who decided to 'take his talents down to Tel Aviv', went through a long thinking process before making his crucial decision, using Coach Finch as one of his guiding mentors, 'We spoke of Maccabi from early on, Jon told me he had the opportunity the prior year but turned it down to pursue NBA opportunities. Its a good step for him because he is someone who needs to be playing and not sitting on the bench (hint hint coach Blatt), I think it is good for him to work overseas and I believe making the transition to Europe won't be that difficult for him. He needed to maximize his efforts of making the NBA and he thought that the right time to go to Maccabi is now.'

Jeremy Pargo's backcourt

'The more Jon could play at the 1 position the better his NBA chances will be, and he's willing to do whatever it takes to help himself and help the team win. Jon's style of play resembles an old school guard. Smart, understands where he's going to get his shots, understands where other guys are going to get their shots, he also knows how to play without the ball very well in terms of moving and spacing and I think that will help him a lot while playing with Jeremy Pargo.'

Losing combo guard Doron Perkins late last season meant Pargo had to take most of the ball handling and creating load himself. 'The Scheyer-Pargo duel will turn out to be very fun. You look at Jon who's played with a lot of good guards and was able to be extremely effective alongside all of them. He is very smart and adaptable but the most important fact is he is one of those guys that the better the players around him, the better a player he is going to be. In a sense, he and Pargo complete each other and I think next season will be very interesting for the Maccabi fans.'

Media spotlight

Scouted by the media from a young age, Scheyer has and always will be an interesting topic of discussion and wherever he goes, he is followed. 'Honestly, one thing that was extremely interesting in having Jon on board was that our profile picked up significantly,' said Finch.

'A lot of media, lots of Duke fans, lots of basketball fans period who are very intrigued in Jon Scheyer, who he is and what he does. He handles the media with lots of class and patience and he always has time for everyone. I think the fans and community will greatly enjoy his presence.'

Optional grand finale

Seeing two of his 2009/10 Duke championship teammates (Nolan Smith and Kyle Singler) getting drafted this past week must have stung for Scheyer who went undrafted after beating Butler in the NCAA finals. 'He obviously has the talent. You dont accomplish the things in life that he has done without being talented. The NBA is a lot about circumstances and Jon didnt really have a full fair valuation process because he suffered from Mono during the draft workouts and then he had the eye injury in the summer league so his whole last year was basically a loss. He's more a victim of circumstance rather than not being talented enough. He is already a very complete player but to take another step forward his shooting must become lights out.'

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


Stefano Sacripanti stays with Pepsi Caserta - by Eurobasket News
Stefano Sacripanti will remain a Head Coach of Pepsi Caserta. The Italian specialist signed a two-year contract extension today. Sacripanti took over Caserta in 2009. They were runners-up in SerieA in their first season together. Later, Caserta reached Semifinals. This season, Pepsi Caserta ended as No.11 with 12-18 record. Before Caserta, Sacripanti worked with Scavolini Pesaro and Cantu. He won the Italian SuperCup with Cantu in 2003.
Stefano Sacripanti is currently a Head Coach of the Italian U20 National Team. He works with them since 2006. At the EuroBasket 2009 in Rhodes, U20 Italy reached Semifinals. In the past, Sacripanti also worked with Italian University NT and U18 NT.

Armani Jeans Milano lands floor general Omar Cook - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Armani Jeans Milano announced signing of the floor general Omar-Sharif Cook (186-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) for the next season. The 29-year-old American/Montenegrin heads to Milano from Power Electronics Valencia. He was targeted by Efes Pilsen and Galatasaray, but it seems AJ Milano made the best offer to the player.
Omar-Sharif Cook joined Valencia last summer from Unicaja. In Spanish league he had 6.4ppg, 2.4rpg, Assists-2 (5.4apg), Steals-1 (2.2spg), FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 27.4%, FT: 81.0%. In Euroleague after 21 games his stats read 8.0ppg, 2.4rpg, Assists-2 (5.6apg), Steals-4 (1.8spg), FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 79.1%. Valencia reached Euroleague Quarterfinals and was close to eliminate Real Madrid.
In 2008-2009 for Omar joined Unicaja Malaga (Spain-ACB, starting five) and in Spanish League averaged 6.1ppg, 1.5rpg, 4.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 73.1%. In Euroleague after 16 games his stats read 5.6ppg, 1.9rpg, Assists-2 (5.1apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 32.1%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 75.0%. In 2009-2010 for Unicaja Malaga (Spain-ACB, starting five) in Spanish League he improved to 8.6ppg, 1.4rpg, Assists-1 (5.7apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 85.1% and in Euroleague showed 9.7ppg, 1.8rpg, Assists-1 (5.9apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 79.4%.
Only last year Omar became Spanish ACB Supercup Finalist -11, Spanish Cup (Copa del Rey) Semifinals -11, Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Honorable Mention -11, Eurobasket.com Euroleague All-Defensive Team -11, Euroleague Quarterfinals -11, Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB Defensive Player of the Year -11, Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB 3rd Team -11.
In the past, Omar cook played for Crvena Zvezda, Samara and Dexia Mons-Hainaut. He was Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Guard of the Year -08 with Crvena Zvezda.

Pepsi Caserta brings in Diego Ciorciari - by Eurobasket News
Pepsi Caserta announced signing of a two-year deal with Diego Ciorciari (185-G-80, agency: Interperformances). The Argentinean/Italian point guard heads to his new team from Spanish Menorca. He played 34 games for them last season averaging 6 points, 2.1 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 1.5 steals. Unfortunately, they were not able to survive in ACB. Ciorciari played for Menroca in 2009/10 season as well and he helped the team to win the LEB Gold championship. They also won promotion to ACB at the same time. Ciorciari was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Gold Guard of the Year -09.
Before Menorca, Diego Ciorciari spent two years with Melilla. He also has experience from Calpe Aguas, CAI Zaragoza, Rimini, Avelino, Arkadia and Oeste.
Pepsi Caserta finished last season as No.11 in SerieA. They had 12-18 record.

Cisternino held Memorial Peppino Todisco - by Eurobasket News
Cisternino held Memorial Peppino Todisco for U18 teams. In Day 1 Sweden U18 edged Italian U18 team 76:70. Both teams nailed 22 points in the first period, while Sweden won the second and the last quarters to seal the victory in the opener. Jonathan Person paced all the winners with 16 points and William Magarity (207-F-93) nailed 15. Jesper Eliasson ended up with 14, while Marcus Eriksson scored 12. Della Valle answered with 18 points for Italy and Matteo Chillo (202-F/C-93) had 15.
In Day 2 Italy U18 rolled over Czech Republic U18 95:75. The favorites started the game well and reached the necessary result at the end of the game. Francesco Veccia (190-G-93) poured in 24 points and Matteo Chillo netted 23. Raphael Gaspardo (205-F-93) ended up with 10, whilst Della Valle scored 9.
In Day 3 Poland U18 beat Italy U18 82:80. It was a really tough game as both teams could win the campaign. Poland looked better at the very end to seal the win. For Italy Francesco Veccia and Della Valle posted 16 points each, while Raphael Gaspardo scored 9.
Italy finished on the second place, while Poland triumphed in the campaign.

*****************************************************
  JAPAN   


BJ League Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Michael PARKER
  Fukuoka .
  (200-F-81)
  Avg: 27.5
 1. Parker, Fukuoka27.5 
 2. Hopson, Sendai21.3 
 3. Satterfield, Saita.19.9 
 4. Washington, Osaka19.8 
 5. White, Kyoto H.19.4 
 6. Cole, Miyazaki18.9 
 7. Henry, Akita18.9 
 8. Harper, Toyama G.18.6 
 9. Arnold, Hamamats.18.4 
 10. Bell, Sendai 89ers18.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gary HAMILTON
  Shiga L.
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 15.2
 1. Hamilton, Shiga L.15.2 
 2. Holm, Sendai 89ers13.4 
 3. Cole, Miyazaki11.4 
 4. Akingbade, Akita11.2 
 5. Graves, Akita11.2 
 6. Andrews, Niigat.10.8 
 7. Parker, Fukuoka10.5 
 8. Newton, Okinawa GK10.5 
 9. Warren, Kyoto H.10.2 
 10. Harper, Toyama G.10.1 
Assists Per Game
 Kenny SATTERFIELD
  Saitam.
  (188-G-81)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Satterfield, Saita.6.7 
 2. Hopson, Sendai5.6 
 3. Henry, Akita5.0 
 4. Ishizaki, Shimane4.6 
 5. Hamilton, Shiga L.4.6 
 6. Yonamine, Okina.4.6 
 7. Shimizu, Miyazaki4.4 
 8. Sparks, Takamats.4.4 
 9. Lottich, Oita H.4.4 
 10. Eaton, Tokyo Apa.4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Michael PARKER
  Fukuoka .
  (200-F-81)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Parker, Fukuoka2.4 
 2. Eaton, Tokyo Apac.2.1 
 3. Satterfield, Saita.1.9 
 4. Manuel, Miyazaki1.9 
 5. Sparks, Takamats.1.8 
 6. Johnson, Oita H.1.8 
 7. Hamilton, Shiga L.1.8 
 8. Ito, Miyazaki1.7 
 9. Henry, Akita1.6 
 10. Parmer, Hamamats.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Jeral DAVIS
  Shimane
  (216-C-84)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Davis, Shimane3.2 
 2. Blackledge, Osaka2.2 
 3. Tseng, Osaka Eves.1.9 
 4. Leach, Saitama1.7 
 5. Swift, Tokyo A.1.7 
 6. Smith, Toyama G.1.5 
 7. Johnson, Oita H.1.5 
 8. Cordeiro, Fukuok.1.4 
 9. Bell, Sendai 89ers1.3 
 10. Newton, Okinawa1.3 


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


Lithuania U20 fire past USA U19 at Global Games - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - USA U19 101:72

Lithuanian U20 National Team victoriously opened their 2011 Global Games tournament campaign. They cruised past the USA U19 selection in Panevezys. Darius Tarvydas (200-F-91) stepped up with 21 points to lead the charge.
Lithuania stunned USA 32:8 in the starting period. Lithuania maintained the pressure throughout the second frame. The hosts built a 59:27 halftime advantage. The North American side seemed to have adjusted offensively in the third term. They erupted with 28 points and cut the distance to 17 points with one quarter remaining. But Lithuanian youngsters delivered 29 points in the final stanza and sealed the victory at the end. Saulius Kulvietis (203-F-91) produced 16 points and 7 rebounds for Lithuania. Paulius Dambrauskas (191-G-91) contributed 15 points in the win. Tim Hardaway Jr. (195-G-92) answered with 18 points for the USA. Joe Jackson (182-G-92) netted 13 points in the loss.

Lithuania U20: Darius Tarvydas 21, Saulius Kulvietis 16, Paulius Dambrauskas 15
USA U19: Tim Hardaway Jr. 18, Joe Jackson 13


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


Standings - Lower Leagues
CIBANE Regular Season Standings
 1. Durango M. 7-1 
 2. Fresnillo M. 6-1 
 3. Saltillo Caktus 4-4 
 4. UAZ Tuzos 3-2 
 5. P.Negras A. 2-6 
 6. Apodaca G. 1-9 


Madereros climb CIBANE power rankings - by Carlos Chapa
1. Madereros de Durango 7-1 (87%)
Dominant team on the court and on the stats section, a proven defensive squad that allows 74 points per game and that built some confidence after beating Tuzos de la UAZ Zacatecas in crunch time with a clinching three-pointer last week.

2. Mineros de Fresnillo 6-1 (86%)
Tyronne Beale is the reason why Mineros de Fresnillo have won 6 straight games: Dunks, defense, athleticism, showtime and averaging nearly 41 points per game, Beale is a matchup problem for every team in the league and as long as he continues to have support from his squad, Mineros de Fresnillo will be a serious candidate to repeat.

3. Tuzos de la UAZ Zacatecas 3-2 (60%)
Two heartbreaking loses occurred last week against Madereros de Durango, the team showed some progress with their imports, who need to keep a constant level to reach the top spots.

4. Caktus de Saltillo 4-4 (50%)
Caktus de Saltillo lost the first spot on our power rankings after losing 4 straight games. Big men from Madereros de Durango and Mineros de Fresnillo caused trouble inside the paint for Saltillo, signing a player to reinforce this area would not hurt.

5. Aguilas de Piedras Negras 2-6 (25%)
This team finally gave a gift to their growing fan base earning their first two wins of the season and looking better with the addition of Francisco Luna and Carlos Zermeno.

6. Guerreros de Apodaca 1-9 (10%)
The injury bug and losing players due to call-ups to the national team are definitely hitting Guerreros de Apodaca, rumor has it that they will soon have the help of an import that left his mark on the LNBP in the last decade.

For more information about the CIBANE League, please check their official sites:
www.cibane.org
www.twitter.com/LigaCibane
www.facebook.com/LigaCibane
Interview with coach Federico Cepeda from Tuzos de la UAZ Zacatecas



U16 Mexico avoids last place in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
U16 COSTA RICA - U16 MEXICO 66-76

Mexico avoided last place at the U16 FIBA Americas championship in Cancun. They outplayed Costa Rica 76-66 for the first victory at this event. Costa Rica on the other side, finished as No.8 winless. Omar De Haro (95) shined for the hosts with 24 points and 7 rebounds. Bryan Rivera (95) followed him with 20 points and 7 boards. Third scorer in victory was Uriel Beltran (96) with 9 points. CRC got 24 points and 12 rebounds from Milton Jimenez (95). Adrian Chavarria (96) scored 13 and Henry Sanchez (95) added three points less.
Mexico started the game with 15-19 lead. However, Costa Rica replied with 19-15 in Q2 tying the score at the HT. Mexico drastically improved after the breather making 16-24 in Q3. They won the last quarter as well (16-18) for the final 66-76 victory.

Costa Rica: Milton Jimenez 24+12 boards, Adrian Chavarria 13, Henry Sanchez 10
Mexico: Omar De Haro 24+7 boards, Bryan Rivera 20+7 boards, Uriel Beltran 9

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


Vasilije Micic leads U18 Serbia to another win against U18 Montenegro - by Eurobasket News
U18 Serbia and U18 Montenegro met in another friendly yesterday. Serbia once again celebrated and it was a comfortable 84-55 victory. Vasilije Micic (192-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) shined for the winners and was their top scorer again with 18 points. Stefan Popovski-Turanjanin (201-F-93, agency: Beo Basket) had 14 and Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) added two points less. In Montenegro, Vlado Koprivica (206-C-93) was the only one with double-digits, 13 pts. Quarters: 16-11, 22-14, 19-17, 27-13.
In the first meeting, U18 Serbia celebrated 67-55 win thanks to nice played second half. Vasilije Micic and Nenad Miljenovic 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 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.

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


Nene asks to be released from Brazil national team - by Eurobasket News
Denver Nuggets center Hilario Nene (6'10''-C-82) says he will not join Brazil's national team at the upcoming FIBA Americas Championship, the regional qualifying tournament for the 2012 London Olympics.

The Brazilian basketball confederation said Nene asked to be released on Friday, citing 'personal' and 'contractual' reasons.

The confederation said Hilario Nene's one-sentence statement did not provide any further explanation for his request.

The FIBA Americas Championship will be held in Argentina from Aug. 30 to Sept. 11.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Report: Hornets F David West to opt out? - by Eurobasket News
Back in March, in an ugly scene, New Orleans Hornets All-Star forward David West (6'8''-F-80, college: Xavier) awkwardly fell to the ground during a shot attempt, tearing the ACL in his left knee. There's never a good time for a serious knee injury, but West, 30, was headed into the summer expecting a final major pay day.

Instead, the injury created a very difficult predicament: He could either opt in to the final year of his contract, worth $7.53 million, or he could hit the open market as a free agent with an injury and a lengthy rehabilitation timeline that would extend into next season.

ESPN.com reports that West, who averaged 18.9 points and 7.6 rebounds in 2010-2011, is set to opt out and test free agency.

David West is expected to opt out of the final season of his contract this week and become a free agent, according to sources close to the situation.

West has a June 30 deadline in his contract to notify the Hornets whether he will invoke next season's $7.5 million salary or opt for free agency, but sources say that the Hornets are already bracing for West to make his opt-out decision official before Thursday's buzzer.

The Hornets have anticipated all along that West would become a free agent, even though the former All-Star was forced to undergo surgery in April to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee suffered March 24. The reason: West still figures to be one of the two or three most coveted players on the open market.
The safest play in this situation would be to opt in, but with uncertainty over the next Collective Bargaining Agreement and a weak overall crop of free agents, the risk in opting out isn't as big as we might expect.

The worst case scenario here is that West, who has at least 3-4 years of solid production left, reaches an agreeable multi-year extension to stay with the Hornets. West is a franchise icon and the Hornets aren't particularly deep in the frontcourt, although Carl Landry filled in nicely for New Orleans during their first round playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers. If the Hornets are interested -- and they've made it known publicly that they are -- West's options are to go forward on a one-year deal for less than $8 million or to negotiate a multi-year contract with the team that is assuredly going to be bigger than that. If a third party team swoops in to boost his market value, all the better.

In this light, after some thought, West's decision doesn't seem all that difficult after all.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

More NBA labor talks set for next week - by Eurobasket News
As the NBA nears a rapidly approaching labor deadline, there are precious few days left to hash out a new collective bargaining agreement or risk a lockout.

As it stands now, any new deal looks like it will have to come at the buzzer.

'We're still talking,' NBA commissioner David Sterns said, 'and that's always a positive thing.'

The two sides met again on Friday, when players were supposed to present a response to what the league offered in the last round of meetings three days before.

They didn't, and a new round of talks was penciled in for next week -- after the NBA Board of Governors meeting on Tuesday.

The sides will get together Wednesday or Thursday, a potentially optimistic bit of scheduling considering the governors could vote for a lockout during their meeting in Dallas.

The current CBA expires June 30 -- Thursday. Stern said, in terms of voting on a lockout, the league could do whatever it needed, whenever it needed to do it, whether it came with the formality of a meeting or not.

'But the best time we're going to spend next week hopefully is in a meeting with the players on Wednesday that with any luck goes over into Thursday,' he said.

Stern said the league was 'cheered' by the fact that so many players attended the latest round of discussions and that it was 'an excellent session.' But he declined to reveal any specifics of what the sides talked about, other than to say again that the No. 1 thing the NBA doesn't want is a lockout.

It stood in contrast to Tuesday's talks, after which Stern was loose-lipped about the league's proposed 'flex' salary cap, which the players still view as a hard cap.

The issue is among top sticking points in the labor talks, which resumed one day after the NBA Draft, annually one of the league's biggest dates. Stern joked that he was 'punchy' after performing his draft duties Thursday night, then joining the meetings on Friday.

He reiterated the league's willingness to negotiate anything.

'The one thing that's clear is that both sides have an enormous amount to gain from making a deal and an enormous amount to lose by not making a deal,' Stern said.

Among the items on Tuesday's agenda for the governors meeting are revenue sharing, collective bargaining and an update on the league's financials, said deputy commissioner and chief operating officer Adam Silver.

Stern said the league wouldn't be able to make a final push on revenue sharing until the new labor deal is hashed out. There was a conference call scheduled for Friday that had to be pushed back until early next week.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Sacramento Kings Interested in Aaron Brooks? - by Eurobasket News
The Kings added Jimmer Fredette (6'2''-PG-89, college: BYU) to their backcourt during last weeks Draft, but according to the NY Daily News, they're still interested in making a play for point guard/restricted free agent Aaron Brooks (6'0''-PG-85, college: Oregon): 'With Jimmer Fredette's addition to a backcourt featuring Tyreke Evans, Sacramento doesn't have a playmaker, but the answer might come in free agency, whenever that is. The Kings plan on making a pitch for the Suns Aaron Brooks, who is restricted. Phoenix made him a qualifying offer on Thursday.'

Courtesy of www.slamonline.com

One-year contracts short-term plan for Knicks - by Eurobasket News
The Knicks do not need a new president as much as they need a new starting center.

With the lockout looming Friday and with outgoing president Donnie Walsh leaving the same day, the Knicks' restocking of their roster from the Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) trade will be on indefinite hold.

Free agency normally begins July 1, but the impending lockout could last most of the summer and the Knicks' void in the middle will remain.

Walsh made a very telling remark on the Knicks' free-agency strategy Thursday night following the NBA Draft -- an indication the front office will not do anything to hurt their 2012 salary-cap space when they should have enough room to sign Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest), Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) or Dwight Howard (6'10''-C/F-85) as free agents.

'Now we have to manage the cap and then the following year (2012), we'll be in great position,' Walsh said.

According to an NBA source, the Knicks are planning on only offering one-year deals this summer to free agents. That will take them out of the pool of prominent free-agent centers, including Samuel Dalembert. Certainly the more marquee players, such as Mavericks champion pivot Tyson Chandler, the Grizzlies' Marc Gasol and Clippers young stud DeAndre Jordan are out of the question.

There had been debate inside the organization about whether to use the Mavericks championship blueprint, forgoing the three-superstar Miami plan -- that would add Paul -- and breaking up the cap room among three solid pieces rather than a third superstar. They could still do that, but plan to wait until 2012 -- perhaps with a new president -- before deciding. Commissioner David Stern's recent proposal of a $62 million cap - up from $45 million -- gave the Knicks new life on a 2012 bonanza.

Their one-year-contract edict would still give the Knicks a shot at lower-tier, cheaper centers.

Kwame Brown is on their radar after having a serviceable season with Charlotte (7.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 51.7 percent shooting). Michael Jordan's former No. 1 draft bust is 6-11, 270 pounds and though he has hands of stone, he can defend, rebound and block shots -- the only Knicks requirements.

There are other free-agent centers who could be had for one-year deals that will pique the Knicks' interest -- Tony Battie, ex-Knick veteran Kurt Thomas, who filled in solidly in spots with the Bulls, Joel Pryzbilla, Aaron Gray and ancient Theo Ratliff.

Even if Greg Oden, who has interest in the Knicks, is not extended a qualifying offer by the Blazers, he is going to command a multi-year deal, according to sources, leaving the Knicks on the outs.

The only center with a contract for next season is undersized Ronny Turiaf. The Post has learned Turiaf, as expected, exercised the final year of his contract at $4.5 million. He proved injury-prone in missing 18 games last season with chronic knee soreness.

The Knicks must add more size if they hope to compete for the Eastern Conference title. 'We're going to be better than last year,' said coach Mike D'Antoni, who will enter his lame-duck season. 'We'll have time to come together. Landry [Fields] is going to be better, Toney [Douglas] is going to be better. Iman [Shumpert] and Josh [Harrellson] will help out. We'll have some holes and we'll re-sign people. But we're going to be a better team.'

The Knicks want to re-sign Sixth Man surprise Shawne Williams and possibly veteran point guard Anthony Carter as insurance for Chauncey Billups. But Shelden Williams and Jared Jeffries figure to be goners.

Owner James Dolan has yet to begin a search for Walsh's replacement. That soon-to-be interim president Glen Grunwald went on the national TV draft telecast Thursday to discuss the Knicks' selection of Shumpert was a good sign he'll be around for a while.

Grunwald is expected to have Mark Warkentien, John Gabriel and Allan Houston under him. Grunwald, a former Indiana center, is 6-9, but has his work cut out for him in adding a player taller than himself who will make a big impact next season.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com

Rockets pick up option for Goran Dragic - by Eurobasket News
NBA sources told FOX 26 Sports the Houston Rockets picked up the option on guard Goran Dragic's (6'5''-PG-86) contract for the 2011-2012 season.

Dragic will make $2,108,000.

He came to Houston in the trade that sent guard Aaron Brooks to the Phoenix Suns at the trade deadline last season.

Dragic played in 22 games for Houston and averaged 7.7 points and shot .519 from the three-point line.

He had the first triple-double of his career on April 13 in the Rockets' 121-102 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

In that game Dragic had 11 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists.

Courtesy of www.myfoxhouston.com

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


Lithuania U20 fire past USA U19 at Global Games - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - USA U19 101:72

Lithuanian U20 National Team victoriously opened their 2011 Global Games tournament campaign. They cruised past the USA U19 selection in Panevezys. Darius Tarvydas (200-F-91) stepped up with 21 points to lead the charge.
Lithuania stunned USA 32:8 in the starting period. Lithuania maintained the pressure throughout the second frame. The hosts built a 59:27 halftime advantage. The North American side seemed to have adjusted offensively in the third term. They erupted with 28 points and cut the distance to 17 points with one quarter remaining. But Lithuanian youngsters delivered 29 points in the final stanza and sealed the victory at the end. Saulius Kulvietis (203-F-91) produced 16 points and 7 rebounds for Lithuania. Paulius Dambrauskas (191-G-91) contributed 15 points in the win. Tim Hardaway Jr. (195-G-92) answered with 18 points for the USA. Joe Jackson (182-G-92) netted 13 points in the loss.

Lithuania U20: Darius Tarvydas 21, Saulius Kulvietis 16, Paulius Dambrauskas 15
USA U19: Tim Hardaway Jr. 18, Joe Jackson 13


UK signs John Calipari to 8-year extension - by Eurobasket News
University of Kentucky men's basketball coach John Calipari , who led the Wildcats to the school's 14th NCAA Final Four appearance last season, has been rewarded with an eight-year contract worth a total of $36.5 million plus the opportunity for performance-based incentives, UK Director of Athletics Mitch Barnhart announced Monday. See attachments for the actual contract which includes an amendment to the previous agreement along with details of the eight-year deal.

'What John Calipari has done on and off the court in the past two years to reunite and rejuvenate this fan base has been magical,' Barnhart said. 'He understands the responsibility that goes along with this position and there is no other coach out there that is a better fit for the best basketball program in the country.'

'Cal and I are the same age and share some of the same thoughts on our careers and I wanted to align his contract with my current eight-year deal. He worked with us during this process and clearly demonstrated that he wants to be at Kentucky for a long time. We evened out his yearly compensation without adding to his base salary. We were able to move some longevity bonuses around that were already in the contract, and added some longevity bonuses in the later years of his contract to demonstrate that we want him here for a long time. We also agreed to restructure the bonus money in a fair format where success dictates the bonuses. If we reach the levels of success for Cal to receive these bonuses, we will certainly generate the revenue necessary to allocate these funds.'

'Coach Calipari has led a remarkable turnaround of our basketball program, bringing it back to unquestioned national prominence and in a position to compete for championships on a regular basis,' UK President Dr. Lee T. Todd, Jr. said. 'Aligning his contract with that of Mitch Barnhart creates the potential for long-term continuity in an athletics program that is performing and winning both on the court and in the classroom.'

In two seasons, Calipari has led the Wildcats to a 64-12 (.889) overall mark, including UK's first Final Four appearance in 13 years last season. Calipari became only the second coach in NCAA history to lead three different schools to the Final Four. Boasting a perfect 33-0 home record in two years at Rupp Arena, he also led Kentucky to its second straight Southeastern Conference Tournament title. Calipari's teams have also showed remarkable improvement off the court, sporting a 3.14 grade-point average in the spring 2011 semester with nine players at a 3.0 GPA or better. Kentucky also tied for the highest Academic Progress Rate (974) among men's basketball teams in the SEC. All four draft-eligible players were selected in the 2011 NBA Draft, giving Kentucky an unprecedented nine draft picks over the last two seasons. Calipari also received an Emmy nomination for his role in creating 'Hoops for Haiti' during his first season which raised over $1.5 million for the people of Haiti.

In his inaugural season as head coach at Kentucky, Calipari posted his fifth-straight 30-win season, the only coach in NCAA Division I history to do so. He became the first coach in UK history to receive the Adolph Rupp National Coach of the Year award and is one of only two coaches to earn multiple Naismith National Coach of the Year honors. He was also named the Associated Press SEC Coach of the Year after winning the program's 44th SEC Championship and 26th SEC Tournament title. When he led Kentucky back to the No. 1 spot in the country, Calipari became one of only two coaches in NCAA history to lead three teams to a No. 1 ranking. He then watched as five of his players were selected in the first round of the 2010 NBA Draft, the first time a school has ever produced five first-round picks. Among those picks was the first Wildcat ever taken as the No. 1 overall selection, John Wall.

'I'd like to thank Dr. Todd and Mitch for this great opportunity and the Big Blue Nation for their unbelievable support,' UK head basketball coach John Calipari said. 'Ellen and I have tried to be good stewards with the blessings we have received and will continue to invest in the Commonwealth and the Lexington community. The people of Kentucky have embraced our family as one of their own and we love being here and there is no other place we'd rather be. Our fans are the best in all of sports and even though you're crazy, we love it.'

Courtesy of www.wave3.com

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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Jack LEASURE
  Taranaki.
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 21.9
 1. Leasure, Taranaki.21.9 
 2. Hudson, Manawatu.20.1 
 3. Pace, Bay Hawks19.8 
 4. Webster, Wellingt.19.7 
 5. Campbell, Taranaki.19.4 
 6. Abercrombie, Waika.19.2 
 7. Smith, Waikato P.18.6 
 8. Bradshaw, OceanaG.18.6 
 9. Polyblank, Southla.18.5 
 10. Dora, Nelson G.18.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Alex PLEDGER
  Waika.
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 12
 1. Pledger, Waika.12.0 
 2. Vukona, Nelson G.11.4 
 3. Horvath, Manawatu.10.9 
 4. Allred, OceanaGo.10.1 
 5. Campbell, Taranaki.9.9 
 6. Seay, Waikato P.9.3 
 7. Grizzard, Nelson G.8.8 
 8. Johnson, Wellingt.8.7 
 9. Bradshaw, OceanaG.8.5 
 10. Boucher, Auckland.8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Jason CROWE
  Waikato P.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Crowe, Waikato P.6.7 
 2. Dickel, Southland6.5 
 3. Tait, Wellington S.6.0 
 4. Braswell, Southlan.5.2 
 5. Kench, Manawatu J.4.4 
 6. Hagan, Manawatu J.4.2 
 7. Martin, Auckland.4.0 
 8. Boucher, Auckland.3.8 
 9. Smith, Waikato P.3.6 
 10. Meehl, Taranaki MA3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Jason CROWE
  Waikato P.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Crowe, Waikato P.3.2 
 2. Boucher, Auckland.3.0 
 3. Hagan, Manawatu J.2.6 
 4. Smith, Waikato P.2.6 
 5. Seay, Waikato P.2.3 
 6. Kench, Manawatu J.2.0 
 7. Dickel, Southland2.0 
 8. Rose, Southland S.1.8 
 9. Braswell, Southlan.1.6 
 10. Leasure, Taranaki.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Alex PLEDGER
  Waika.
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Pledger, Waika.2.7 
 2. Seay, Waikato P.1.5 
 3. Iti, Southland S.1.5 
 4. Allred, OceanaGo.1.4 
 5. Spicer, Southlan.1.2 
 6. Vukona, Nelson G.1.0 
 7. Anthony, Waika.1.0 
 8. Johnson, Wellingt.1.0 
 9. Adams, Wellington1.0 
 10. Brown, Auckland P.1.0 


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


Smart-Gilas Gains Momentum after SEABA Conquest - by Enzo Flojo
For the 6th time, the Philippines are champions of the Southeast Asian Basketball Association. They thoroughly manhandled the opposition to finish with an immaculate 4-0 record and an average winning margin of 40 points. Despite fielding in only 9 men throughout the competition, coach Rajko Toroman (agency: Agency No 10 ) still succeeded in steering the Smart-Gilas squad to success, with one impressive performance after the other.

As a bonus, 7 Pinoys finished in the Top 10 in scoring: Japeth Paul Aguilar (207-C-85, college: W.Kentucky) (16.0ppg), Andy Mark Barroca (198-F/C-88) (12.5ppg), Marcus Eugene Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) (12.5ppg), Chris Lutz (11.5ppg), Mac Baracael (11.0ppg), Chris TIu (10.5ppg), and Dylan Ababou (9.5ppg).

The other 3 were Singapore's Wei Long Wong (17.0ppg), Malaysia's Shee Fai Loh (13.0ppg), and Indonesia's Xaverius Prawiro (9.5ppg).

This bodes well for the Philippines, as the team advances to the FIBA-Asia Men's Championship in Wuhan, China from September 15-25 later this year. The Indons and Malaysians will join the Pinoys, but something tells me only Smart-Gilas will make some headway in the continental competition.

These 3 SEABA teams will join an already imposing cast of 11 teams:
- China, South Korea, Japan and Taiwan from East Asia
- Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain from the Gulf
- Lebanon, Iran, Jordan and Syria from West Asia

That makes 14 teams. Two more will qualify from the Middle Asia sub-zone (probably Kazakhstan and India).

Here's to hoping Gilas continues its hot shooting and stifling defense well into their next tournaments and into the FIBA-Asia Men's Championships! Go Pilipinas!!!

Source: HoopNut.blogspot.com

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


Polish U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Kacper Mlynarski
Mlynarski
Jakub Parzenski
Parzenski
Michal Sokolowski
Sokolowski
Sebastian Szymanski
Szymanski
Hubert Wierzbicki
Wierzbicki
#e#5
Kacper Mlynarski 200-F-92 Asec.Prokom-2 Poland
Jakub Parzenski 209-F/C-91 CS Bologna Italy
Michal Sokolowski 195-G-92 Znicz Basket Poland
Sebastian Szymanski 185-G-91 Start Lublin Poland
Hubert Wierzbicki 196-F-91 ISS Sportino Poland
Wojciech Fras 203-F-91 Znicz Basket Poland
Jaroslaw Zyskowski 197-G-92 Slask Wroclaw Poland
Michal Kwiatkowski 190-G-92 Polonia Azbud Poland
Bartosz Zajac 197-G-91 Znicz Jaroslaw Poland
Dariusz Wyka 207-C-91 Znicz Jaroslaw Poland
Przemyslaw Jaworski 200-F/C-92 OSSM PZKosz Poland
Norbert Kulon 185-G-92 Slask Wroclaw Poland
Mateusz Dziemba 194-G-92 AZS AWF K-ce Poland
Marek Szumelda-Krzycki 191-G-91 Znicz Basket Poland



Asseco Prokom to keep coach Pacesas - by Eurobasket News
According to 'Gazeta Wyborcza', Tomas Pacesas will continue as a Head Coach of the Polish powerhouse Asseco Prokom. Reportedly, they already agreed an extension, but the club will have lower budget than the last season.
Tomas Pacesas started his coaching career as an AC with Prokom in 2007. After one year, he was promoted to HC position. Pacesas led Asseco Prokom to Euroleague Quarterfinals in 2010. As Head Coach, Pacesas won three consecutive titles in Poland. He also has one as an assistant (2008). That same year Prokom also won the Polish Cup. Last season, they defended the PLK title after 76-71 win against Turow in decisive Game Seven of the Finals. Prokom was the regular season champion with 17-5 record.

Poland U18 wins Memorial Peppino Todisco - by Eurobasket News
Poland U18 wins Memorial Peppino Todisco with 4 teams participating. In Day 1 Poland U18 overcame Czech Republic U18, while Sweden U18 edged Italian U18 team 76:70.
In Day 2 Poland U18 outscored Sweden U18 81:69. The winners opened the game with 22-14 and never looked behind after. They added 16-15 in the second frame to take 38:29 deficit when the teams disappeared in the lockers. The Scandinavian team responded with 20-19 in the third period, but Poland needed 24-20 to win the game. For Sweden Jonathan Person (190-G-93, agency: JEMsports) produced 26 points and William Magarity as well as Tobias Borg (183-G-93) had 10 each. Jesper Eliasson (199-F-94) posted 6, while Marcus Eriksson delivered 5.
In Day 3 Poland U18 beat Italy U18 82:80. It was a really tough game as both teams could win the campaign. Poland looked better at the very end to seal the win. For Italy Veccia and Della Valle posted 16 points each, while Raphael Gaspardo (205-F-93) scored 9.




Austria U20 finished third at home tournament - by Eurobasket News
Austria U20-Poland U20 88:66

Austria U20 finished third at home tournament in Oberwart. The hosts outscored Poland U20 in the last game of the campaign 88:66 to end up on a good note.
Austria opened the game with 31:22 lead and then improved to 51:39 at the halftime. The game was almost done at the end of the third period, when the hosts had 68:56 and Austria even increased to 22 points advantage.
Thomas Klepeisz (187-G-91) poured in 17 points to lead the charge, while Claudio Vancura (180-PG-92) posted 16. Daniel Friedrich (180-G-92) and Kramer posted 12 each, whilst Jozo Rados (203-C-93) netted 10. Kacper Mlynarski (200-F-92) and Jakub Parzenski (209-F/C-91) nailed 14 points each in the losing effort, while Michal Sokolowski (195-G-92) posted 11.
Germany U20 won the International tournament in Oberwart with 4 participating teams. In the last decisive game the German side won over Slovenia U20 to finish with three victories. The latter finished second with 2-1 record suffering the only defeat from the winners.

Austria U20: Thomas Klepeisz 17, Claudio Vancura 16, Daniel Friedrich 12, Kramer 12, Jozo Rados 10
Poland U20: Kacper Mlynarski 14, Jakub Parzenski 14, Michal Sokolowski 11



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


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 


U16 Canada wins the Bronze in Cancun - by Eurobasket News
CANADA - PUERTO RICO 86-65

Canada won the Bronze in Cancun. They outplayed Puerto Rico 86-65 to win this medal at the U16 FIBA Americas championship. Thanks to this victory Canada also booked a spot for the next U17 FIBA World championship. Canada had six players with double-digits in scoring. The leading one was Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G) with 16 pts. Patrick Steeves (95) had 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Christopher McComber (95) added 11 pts and 15 rebs. In the loosing squad, William Cruz (180-G-95) delivered 18 points and Jairo Velez (95) stopped to 11 pts.
Canada had wonderful beginning as they made 26-7 lead in the first ten minutes. They continued with 14-11 after that and 23-16 in Q3. At that time it was already clear that Canada will take the Bronze at this event. They slowed down after that and Puerto Rico made 23-31 in the last ten minutes. Of course, that was not enough even for a small treat and Canada celebrated valuable 86-65 victory at the end.

Canada: Kevin-Mbezela Zabo 16, Patrick Steeves 15+7 boards, Christopher McComber 11+15 boards
Puerto Rico: William Cruz 18, Jairo Velez 11

*****************************************************
  ROMANIA   


CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca keeps Zoran Krstanovic - by Eurobasket News
Zoran Krstanovic (205-C-82) will stay with CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca for at least one more season. Two sides penned a one-year contract extension. Krstanovic helped U-Mobitelco win the title in Romania last season. He appeared 44 times for the club averaging 19.9 points, 9.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals. They crushed Asesoft Ploiesti with 4-2 in the Finals. Krstanovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League Center of the Year- 11. He got the same award in 2010. That year Krstanovic was also Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League Player of the Year.
Zoran Krstanovic joined U-Mobitelco in 2005 from Polet Keramika Novi Becej. Season after that he spent in Hungary with Soproni. In 2007, he returned to Cluj and in 2008 moved to Holland signing a deal with Groningen. However, after few months Krstanovic once again returned to Cluj.

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


Karsniye Kryliya Samara will hire Sergey Bazarevich - by Eurobasket News
Sergey Bazarevich (agency: Alti Sport ) will be the new Head Coach of Karsniye Kryliya Samara. The Russian specialist will sign a two-year deal with the club. Bazarevich heads to Samara from Dynamo Moscow, where he worked last four years. In 2007/08 and after that from 2009 to 2011 he was their Head Coach. Season 2008/09, Bazarevich spent as an AC. As a Head Coach, Bazarevich led Dynamo to Russian A Superleague Semifinals in 2008 and 2010. They also reached ULEB Cup Semis in 2008. Before Dynamo Moscow, Sergey Bazarevich worked with Standart Samara reg Toliatti. He also coached CSKA Moscow juniors.
Karsniye Kryliya ended last season as No.7 in PBL with 10-17 record. They failed in the Playoff Quarterfinals against CSKA Moscow (1-2).

Spartak SP is targeting Loukas Mavrokefalides - by Eurobasket News
Spartak SP is targeting Loukas Mavrokefalides (207-C-84) for the next season. The Russian team is ready to play the salary which is twice higher thatn in Greece for his Olympiakos.
For Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus (A1) Loukas Mavrokefalides started in 2007 and in Euroleague after 10 games averaged 4.1ppg, 3.4rpg. In Greek League Regular Season his stats read 3.2ppg, 2.4rpg. In 2008-2009 the Greek Center moved to Costa Cafe Marousi (A1, starting five) and in Eurocup had12.3ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 77.3%, while in Greek League showed 12.0ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 83.0%. In 2009-2010 moved back to Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus (Greece, A1) and in Euroleague after 14 games showed 5.4ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 63.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 56.0%. In Greek League after 29 games Loukas avearged 6.9ppg, 2.5rpg, FGP: 62.8%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 85.7%. Last season for Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus (A1, starting five) he improved to 8.4ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 79.4% in EuroLeague and in Greek League had 9.8ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 55.2%, FT: 80.8%.
Only in the last few seasonLoukas Mavrokefalides reached Euroleague Quarterfinals -08, 11. became Greek League Finalist -08, 10, 11, Greek League All-Star Game -09, 10, 11, Greek League Semifinals -09, Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League 2nd Team -09, Greek Cup Winners -10, Euroleague Finalist -10, Greek Cup Winner -10, 11, Greek National Team -10. Last season he was awarded Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League Most Improved Player of the Year -11 and became Greek League Regular Season Champion -11.



Nizhny Novgorod extends Ivan Paunic - by Eurobasket News
After they kept Head Coach Zoran Lukic and point guard Nemanja Protic (182-G-86), Nizhny Novgorod secured another extension. The Russian outfit signed another one-year deal with Ivan Paunic (194-G-87, agency: Beo Basket). The Serbian guard joined Nizhny Novgorod last summer from Aris Thessaloniki. He appeared 8 times in EuroChallenge averaging 15.6 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists. Paunic also added 11.2 ppg, 5.4 rpg and 1.5 apg in 34 PBL games. Paunic helped Nizhny Novgorod to reach the PBL Playoffs and later to end as No.5 in the league.
Before Nizhny Novgorod, Ivan Paunic split one season between Aris and Oostende. He also played for Oostende in 2008/09. In the past, Paunic played for Vojvodina, Monar Bar, Avala Ada and Partizan. He is active member of the Serbian National Team from 2009. Last summer in Turkey, Paunic had 2.6 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 7 games. On EuroBasket 2009 in Poland, Paunic helped Serbia to win the Silver with 2.1 ppg and 1.7 rpg for 9 games.

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


Nizhny Novgorod extends Ivan Paunic - by Eurobasket News
After they kept Head Coach Zoran Lukic and point guard Nemanja Protic (182-G-86), Nizhny Novgorod secured another extension. The Russian outfit signed another one-year deal with Ivan Paunic (194-G-87, agency: Beo Basket). The Serbian guard joined Nizhny Novgorod last summer from Aris Thessaloniki. He appeared 8 times in EuroChallenge averaging 15.6 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists. Paunic also added 11.2 ppg, 5.4 rpg and 1.5 apg in 34 PBL games. Paunic helped Nizhny Novgorod to reach the PBL Playoffs and later to end as No.5 in the league.
Before Nizhny Novgorod, Ivan Paunic split one season between Aris and Oostende. He also played for Oostende in 2008/09. In the past, Paunic played for Vojvodina, Monar Bar, Avala Ada and Partizan. He is active member of the Serbian National Team from 2009. Last summer in Turkey, Paunic had 2.6 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 7 games. On EuroBasket 2009 in Poland, Paunic helped Serbia to win the Silver with 2.1 ppg and 1.7 rpg for 9 games.

CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca keeps Zoran Krstanovic - by Eurobasket News
Zoran Krstanovic (205-C-82) will stay with CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca for at least one more season. Two sides penned a one-year contract extension. Krstanovic helped U-Mobitelco win the title in Romania last season. He appeared 44 times for the club averaging 19.9 points, 9.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals. They crushed Asesoft Ploiesti with 4-2 in the Finals. Krstanovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League Center of the Year- 11. He got the same award in 2010. That year Krstanovic was also Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League Player of the Year.
Zoran Krstanovic joined U-Mobitelco in 2005 from Polet Keramika Novi Becej. Season after that he spent in Hungary with Soproni. In 2007, he returned to Cluj and in 2008 moved to Holland signing a deal with Groningen. However, after few months Krstanovic once again returned to Cluj.

Vasilije Micic leads U18 Serbia to another win against U18 Montenegro - by Eurobasket News
U18 Serbia and U18 Montenegro met in another friendly yesterday. Serbia once again celebrated and it was a comfortable 84-55 victory. Vasilije Micic (192-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) shined for the winners and was their top scorer again with 18 points. Stefan Popovski-Turanjanin (201-F-93, agency: Beo Basket) had 14 and Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) added two points less. In Montenegro, Vlado Koprivica (206-C-93) was the only one with double-digits, 13 pts. Quarters: 16-11, 22-14, 19-17, 27-13.
In the first meeting, U18 Serbia celebrated 67-55 win thanks to nice played second half. Vasilije Micic and Nenad Miljenovic 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 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.

U20 Serbia defeats U20 Finland, Nemanja Nedovic MVP in Ancona - by Eurobasket News
U20 Serbia - U20 Finland 75-71

Sunday was the last day of the friendly tournament in Ancona. U20 Serbia was better than U20 Finland 75-71 winning the second place. On the other side, Finland finished this tournament on the last place. Branislav Djekic (207-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Dusan Ognjenovic (216-C-91) stepped up for Serbia with 17 points each. Actually, they were only two players with double-digits in victory. Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Nemanja Jaramaz (201-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) stopped to 9 points each. In Finland, Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) shined with 17 points. Antto Nikkarinen (185-G-91) netted two points less. Quarters: 18-8, 21-24, 16-13, 20-26. As mentioned above, Serbia ended as No.2, while Finland is No.4 in Ancona. Italy won the tour, while Croatia finished on third place.
Nemanja Nedovic was named MVP of the tournament. He was also the first scorer with 48 points in three games. Nedovic and Branislav Djekic are named to best five.

Serbia: Branislav Djekic 17, Dusan Ognjenovic 17, Nemanja Nedovic 9, Nemanja Jaramaz 9
Finland: Carl Lindbom 17, Antto Nikkarinen 15

BC Donetsk lands PG Vule Avdalovic - by Eurobasket News
BC Donetsk stepped up with important signing for the next season. The Ukrainian runner-up penned a one-year deal with point guard Vule Avdalovic (189-G-81, agency: Beo Basket). The 29-year-old Serbian spent last season in France and before that he played five years in Spain.
Vule Avdalovic spent 2010/11 with Cholet. He appeared 10 times in Euroleague with them averaging 8.5 points, 1.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists. In ProA, Avdalovic added 10.6 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 3.3 apg. Cholet reached the Finals, but failed to defend the title in thriller against Nancy. Before Cholet, Avdalovic played for Alicante in Spain.
From 2005 to 2009, Vule Avdalovic was a member of Pamesa Valencia. In 2009, he was named Eurobasket.com All-Eurocup Honorable Mention. Three years before that, Avdalovic was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB Bosman Player of the Year. In the past, Avdalovic spent couple of years with Partizan Belgrade winning many trophies and personal awards with them. Avdalovic also was a member of the Serbian National Team from 2001 to 2006.

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


Germany U20 won the International tournament in Oberwart - by Eurobasket News
Germany U20-Slovenia U20 70:66 (11:17, 16:12, 17:16, 26:21)

Germany U20 won the International tournament in Oberwart with 4 participating teams. In the last decisive game the German side won over Slovenia U20 to finish with three victories. The latter finished second with 2-1 record suffering the only defeat from the winners.
It was Slovenia to go on a lead after the first ten minutes. The team grabbed 17-11 at the end of the frame, but could not stay in front. Germany reduced to 2 points at the halftime after 16-12 win in the second period. Moreover the took the lead in the 34th minute when they enjoyed 53:51 advantage. In the last period Slovenia had 67:66 lead but Mathis Monninghoff and Patrick Heckmann (198-F/G-92) sealed the victory for the German side.
Daniel Theis (207-C-92) stepped up with 18 points for the winners, while Patrick Heckmann netted 14. Mathis Monnninghoff netted 10 and Malte Ziegenhagen (193-G-91) brought 8.


Rockets pick up option for Goran Dragic - by Eurobasket News
NBA sources told FOX 26 Sports the Houston Rockets picked up the option on guard Goran Dragic's (6'5''-PG-86) contract for the 2011-2012 season.

Dragic will make $2,108,000.

He came to Houston in the trade that sent guard Aaron Brooks to the Phoenix Suns at the trade deadline last season.

Dragic played in 22 games for Houston and averaged 7.7 points and shot .519 from the three-point line.

He had the first triple-double of his career on April 13 in the Rockets' 121-102 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

In that game Dragic had 11 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists.

Courtesy of www.myfoxhouston.com

Krka hires Nenad Trajkovic as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
Krka got a new Head Coach for the next season. The team hired Serbian coach Nenad Trajkovic to replace his countryman Aleksandar Dzikic (agency: Beo Basket ), who left for Lietuvos Rytas. Coach Ned heads to Krka from the NBA Team Phoenix Suns, where he worked as Assistant Coach (players development). He worked as AC of Lottomatica Roma in 2009.
Nenad Trajkovic was a Head Coach of the Latvian National Team in 2008. As a HC, Trajkovic also worked with BC Banjalucka Pivara in 2003/04. From 1999 to 2001, Trajkovic was HC of Partizan Belgrade. In the past he also worked as HC of Sloga Kraljevo and Borac Cacak. In 2003, Trajkovic was coaching Iranian National Team. They won the fifth place at the Asian Championship in China.
Nenad Trajkovic will have a very difficult job with Krka, who had wonderful last season. They will compete in Euroleague Qualifying Round.

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


ET land signed with Jackson Vroman - by JungHwan Seo
Inchon ET Land Elephants announced today that they signed with Vroman Jackson (208-C/F-81, college: Iowa St.) for next season. His annual salary will be 350,000 US dollars.

Inchon ET Land Elephants delayed this contract for last 11 days because they didn't sure about Vroman's body condition especially on his both knee. However, medical test on him can confirm that he is all clear except some finger pains.

'We had worried about his injuries. But, now we know he is fine. There is no reason to delay this contract anymore.' Inchon ET Land Elephants GM Yang said.

'He has good height and speed. He is smart enough to fit our team soon. He can be our last puzzle. We wanted this kind of a team player instead of a selfish guy.' Inchon ET Land Elephants head coach Yoo Do-Hoon said.

Vroman will join team practice since 16th August.


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


Sweden U18 edged Azzurri, but lost another two - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18 edged Azzurri, but lost another two at the Memorial Peppino Todisco. In Day 1 Sweden U18 edged Italian U18 team 76:70. Both teams nailed 22 points in the first period, while Sweden won the second and the last quarters to seal the victory in the opener. Jonathan Person paced all the winners with 16 points and William Magarity (207-F-93) nailed 15. Jesper Eliasson (199-F-94) ended up with 14, while Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) scored 12. Della Valle answered with 18 points for Italy and Chillo had 15.
In Day 2 Poland U18 outscored Sweden U18 81:69. The winners opened the game with 22-14 and never looked behind after. They added 16-15 in the second frame to take 38:29 deficit when the teams disappeared in the lockers. The Scandinavian team responded with 20-19 in the third period, but Poland needed 24-20 to win the game. For Sweden Jonathan Person produced 26 points and William Magarity as well as Tobias Borg had 10 each. Jesper Eliasson posted 6, while Marcus Eriksson delivered 5.
In Day 3 Czech Republic U18 needed overtime to upset Sweden U18 86:82. The Scandinavian team started with 19-16 and then added 24-19 in the second frame. The Czechs replied with 24-16 in the third period to tie the score as both teams scored 18 points in the fourth stanza. In overtime Czech Republic needed 9-5 to win the game. For Sweden Tobias Borg poured in 20 points and Marcus Eriksson scored 16. Jesper Eliasson delivered 10, while Sebastian Schuztler had 9.



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  SWITZERLAND   


Lugano Tigers lands coach Randoald Dessarzin - by Luca Maffioli
Lugano Tigers announced signing of a two-year deal with Randoald Dessarzin . The 47-years old Swiss head coach will replace Joe Whelton (LNA Swiss champion 2009-2010 and 2010-2011). Dessarzin started his career in 1994 with Boncourt in D4 and he stayed with the Red Team until 2007. He won two Swiss championship and a national cup. In 2007 came to France with JDA Dijon Bourgogne but he left the team in 2010. He was also the Ivory Coast National Team head coach 2009-2011.


*****************************************************
  TAIWAN   


Taiwan to include Jeremy Lin in Asian Championship roster - by Chris Wang
Taiwan's basketball federation will include Jeremy Lin (191-PG-89, college: Harvard), the first Taiwanese-American in the NBA, in its 24-man preliminary roster for the 2011 FIBA Asia Championship for Men, Taiwan media quoted Chinese Taipei Basketball Association (CTBA) President Ting Shou-chung as saying.

According to Ting, the United Daily News (UDN) reported, he met Lin in a May visit to the U.S. and Lin told him that the possibility for him to play for Taiwan is about 50 percent. Therefore, Ting said, the CTBA plans to list Lin among the 24 candidates in the initial stage in mid-July.

The FIBA Asia Championship for Men will be held in Wuhan, Hubei, China is September.

The CTBA will consult Lin again when the Warrior guard returns to Taiwan for a promotional tour in August before submitting the final 12-man roster for the Asian Championship later that month.

Gie-min Lin, Jeremy's father who came from Taiwan's central county of Changhua, would love to see his son representing Taiwan in international competitions, but Lin's mother hopes Jeremy to focus on his NBA career before making other considerations, the UDN reported.

In addition to Taiwan, China has been recruiting Lin to play for its national team as well, Ting said. However, it's almost impossible for Lin to play for China because he will have to give up his U.S. citizenship.

Taiwan is favored to land Lin since it recognizes dual citizenship, Ting added.

Taiwan U19 NT departs for Latvia - by Chris Wang
Taiwan U19 national team departed for Latvia Sunday for the FIBA U19 World Championship for Men, hoping that they will pull off another miracle.

Taiwan is scheduled to meet host Latvia at 1:30a.m. July 1 Taiwan Time. Less than 17 hours later, they will meet Argentina at 9p.m. July 2 (Taiwan Time) before finishing the preliminary round against Australia at 9a.m. the next day.

The smallest team in the 16-team field of the tournament, Taiwan hopes that it will duplicate the inspiring upset victory over Lebanon in the Asian U18 Championship last year. Taiwan overcame a 15-point deficit to defeat a taller Lebanese team.

Taiwan, which makes the FIBA U19 World Championship for the first time in 24 years, has an average height of 189cm.

Chien Chao-yi, a 181cm guard, said he was well aware that most opponents in Latvia he has to defend are probably as tall as 194cm forward Hu Lung-mao, Taiwan's top scorer and rebounder, and those opponents could have five starters taller than 6-7 on the court, but all he has to do is to do the best he can -- without fear -- when he's on the court.

Taiwan head coach Huang Wan-lung , who led Song-shan High School to a unprecedented three-peat in Taiwan's high school league HBL between 2009 and 2011, said that a smaller team will have to disrupt its opponents' tempo in order to win the game.

'In other words, we have to deny the ball at all time and limit open shot opportunity of our opponents. That's how we beat Lebanon, ' he said.

'I don't have a concrete goal in mind. I have to to prepare these kids and train them to reach the top condition. Come game time, the only goal I have for them is to play their hearts out.'

Most basketball observers predicted that it will be very difficult for Taiwan to get a win in the preliminary round.

Last year, Huang added, 'no one expected us to make the World Championship but we did. This year we have to do it again. We have to make a miracle happen one more time.'


*****************************************************
  TUNISIA   


Young Tunisians currently in Turkey - by Kristian Santiago
The U-19 national-team of Tunisia is currently in Turkey until the 27th of June to play a few test-games before the World Championships in Latvia.

U-19 Tunisia
Mohamed Ali Ben Ammar (TOAC Basket, France)
Hamdi Hattab (Gravelines,France)
Sofiene Mrad (Central Hoops Berlin, Germany)
Youssef Mejri (Montclair Van Nuys HS, USA)
Mohamed Ali Farjallah (CA)
Amor Abada (CA)
Maher Souabni (CA)
Louay Rotosli (CA)
Bilel Sadaaoui (ESR)
Aymen Mahmoud (ESS)
Ahmed Manai (JSM)
Zyed Ben Arbia (SN)
Feras Hamdani (SN)

Coach:
Khalil Ben Ameur and Chokri Ben Yedder


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


Fenerbahce Ulker eyes Curtis Jerrells - by Eurobasket News
According to Turkish media, Fenerbahce Ulker is close to sign Curtis Jerrells (185-G-87, college: Baylor). The American point guard spent last season with Partizan Belgrade. He helped them defend Adriatic league and Serbian league titles, and they also defended the trophy in Serbian Cup last season. In Euroleague, Jerrells helped Partizan to reach Top 16.
Curtis Jerrells joined Partizan in November. He averaged 9.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and 3.8 assists for 10 Euroleague games. In Adriatic league, Jerrells added 12.4 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 2.2 apg for 19 games. He also appeared 19 times in Serbian league registering 12.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 4.1 apg and 1.9 spg. Eurobasket awarded Jerrells with Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Guard of the Year -11. He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Import Player of the Year -11. Before Partizan, Jerrells played for the NBA D-League team Austin Toros. He had 21.4 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 5.8 apg for them in 56 games (2009/10).

TED Istanbul hires Zafer Cavusoglu as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
TED Istanbul hired a new Head Coach for the next season. It is Turkish specialist Zafer Cavusoglu. Cavusoglu arrives from Basaksehir, where he worked last season. He also has experience from Olin Edrine and Adanaspor. TED Istanbul ended last season as No.9 in Group B (TB2L) with 9-13 record.

Efes Pilsen targets C Stanko Barac - by Eurobasket News
After signing of big guy Ermal Kurtoglu (208-C-80, agency: Beo Basket), Efes Pilsen is looking to add another center. According to Turkish media, their first pick is Croatian C Stanko Barac (217-C-86). The 24-year-old Barac spent last three years with Caja Laboral. He had 11.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1 bpg for them in 20 Euroleague games last season. Barac also added 11.9 ppg, 7 rpg and 1.3 apg for 36 games in ACB. Eurobasket awarded Barac with Spanish ACB All-Bosmans Team -11. He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB 2nd Team -11.
Stanko Barac won two ACB titles with Caja Laboral (ex Tau). He also won Copa del Rey trophy with them in 2009. Before Caja Labora, Barac was a member of Pamesa (loan) and Bosnian team Siroki Prima pivo. He also has experience from the Croatian National Team. At the Eurobasket 2007 in Spain, Barac had 5.4 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 7 games. At the Olympic Games 2008 in Beijing, Barac added 4.7 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 6 appearances.

Banvit to deal with Cemal Nalga - by Burak Cidamal
The punishment of Cemal Nalga is going to be finish soon.
The former Galatasaray player spent his punishment period in Alba Berlin and Rytas. Now Galatasaray and Besiktas are looking to sign him to their colours. On the other hand Banvit is the real club which trying to sign him after loosing Bora Hun Pacun, Vladimir Golubovic and Lance Williams.
The club will announce this transfer this week. Banvit also sign Serkan Erdogan from Besiktas and Erkan Veyseloglu from Erdemir.

Three Players Quit Fenerbahe - by Burak Cidamal
2010-2011 beko basketball league champion Fenerbahce Ulker to part Sean May, Darjus Lavrinovic and Sarunas Jasikevicius.

The director of Fenerbahce basketball Nedim karakas said that ' next year those players are not in our team plans and thanks for their participation '

Also Fenerbahce Ulker sign Bojan Bogdanovic and James Gist this week to their colours and still trying to look for players to make stronger team in Euro League.
Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79) Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-G-76, college: Maryland) Sean May (203-F/C-84, college: N.Carolina)

Trabzonspor withdraw from the league - by Burak Cidamal
Turkish basketball is in shock! The black sea side club takes the decision that which they are whitdrawing from the lague after todays meeting.
The clubs debt is nealry 3 million Turkish Lira. Trabzonspor Basketball president Saner Ayar takes his decision last week and made lots of meetings about this point. After this situation president of Trabzon club Sadri Sener put hand of this point.
After the presidents meeting today they take the decision that not to sell the department of basketball but close it. The club will make a press confarence about this point in this week.







Gaziantep inks Gurol Karamahmut - by Eurobasket News
Gaziantep announced signing of a one-year deal with Gurol Karamahmut (199-F-80). The Turkish forward arrives from another TB2L team - Kepez. He had 7 ppg and 1.2 rpg for them in 24 games last season. He helped Kepez reach the TB2L Semifinals. Season 2009/10, Karamahmut spent with Usakspor Belediyesi. For 16 games with them he averaged 18 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.4 assists. In 2008/09, Karamahmut played for Mersin.
Gurol Karamahmut was TB2L champion with Erdemir in 2008. He had 7 ppg and 1 rpg that year. In the past, Karamahmut also played for Tekelspot, Istanbulspor, Galatasaray and Efes Pilsen. Karamahmut played for Turkish B National Team in 2005.

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


Zero Tolerance Summer Basketball League Results - by David Edole
ST. THOMAS -- Jah Youths used a late rally to outpace All Coast Ballers, 47-27, Monday afternoon in Zero Tolerance Basketball Summer League action. Jelani Smalls led JY with 15 points and Kyu Matthews and Devontee Anthony both chipped in with eight. Akiyo Neille led ACB with eight points. In the second 13-15 match of the day, it was Defend Ours outlasting Blazers, 39-30. Rashad Creque and Allany Petersen contributed nine points a piece for Defend Ours. It was a two man affair as JahGamba Felix dropped in a game high 11 points and Shannon Lewis contributed 10 points.
In 16-18 play, Blazers routed Set It Off, 86-35. Xavier Richards scored 23 points to pace four Blazers with double digit scoring. Sequanni Buchannan added 15, Jecoy Julius finished with 12 and Sekayi Petersen chipped in with 10. DQuan Rogers led Set It Off with 13 points and Hasani Hyman added eleven.
In the final game of the day it was AGSUF inching by Concrete, 56-42. Agyei Gregory and Dekwani Norford both talled eleven points for AGSUF. Jahmari Rivera paced Concrete with 12 points.
In a pre Fourth of July celebration, Zero Tolerance girls AAU Lady Stars hosts Ladies of Chocolate City (British Virgin Islands). The games are scheduled for Friday July 1st and continue on Saturday July 2nd. The games are necessary as the Lady Stars get ready for their first AAU tournament experience. The Lady Stars will play in the 17 and Under division of the Super Showcase and will face some of the best teams in the world. The tournament will be held in Orlando, Florida on July 8-11th.

Zero Tolerance Basketball 9-12, 13-15, &16-18 Summer League
Revised Schedule
16-18 Tuesday June 28th
Bean Squad vs. AGSUF 4:30 pm
Concrete vs. Blazers 5 minutes after

13-15 Wednesday June 29th
Stop Playing vs. Jah Youths 4:30 pm
All Coast Ballers vs. Blazers 5 minutes after

9-12 Thursday June 30th
Come 2 Defend vs. Lil Lakers 4:30 pm
Jah Youths vs. Shakers 5 minutes after
Da Heat vs. Ujima 5 minutes after

9-12 Friday, July 1st
Da Heat vs. Jah Youths 4:30 pm
Ujima vs. Lil Lakers 5 minutes after
Exhibition Game 17 and Under
BVI Girls vs. ZT Lady All Stars 5 minutes after

16-18 Saturday July 2nd
Blazers vs. AGSUF 10:30 am
BVI Girls vs. ZT Lady All Stars 5 minutes after

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


Budivelnyk signs Rolandas Alijevas - by Eurobasket News
Rolandas Alijevas (192-G-85) is a new member of Budivelnyk. The Lithuanian guard arrives from Rudupis Prienu, where he finished last season. He joined them in April averaging 8.3 points, 3.1 rebounds and 4.3 assists for 7 games in LKL. Alijevas started the season with Nevezis. He played 20 games for them in Baltic league collecting 12.4 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 4.8 apg. Alijevas also added 14.9 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 5.9 apg for 23 games in LKL. He finished the season as No.1 in assists. Eurobasket awarded Alijevas with Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LKL Guard of the Year -11. He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Baltic League Guard of the Year -11.
Rolandas Alijevas changed three teams in 2009/10 season. He started with Greek Olimpia Larissa and in February of 2010 moved to Nevezis. After few games Alijevas agreed a deal with German Phoenix Hagen. In the past, he also played for Krka, Zalgiris, Samara, Polonia Warszawa, Boncourt and ASVEL.

Vule Avdalovic joins BC Donetsk - by Eurobasket News
Vule Avdalovic (189-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) is the new player of BC Donetsk. The sides have agreed on terms of contract. Vule Avdalovic spent the previous season in France. The Serbian guard played for Cholet averaging 10.6 points, 3.3 assists and 1.9 rebounds per game in ProA. In Euroleague Vule Avdalovic tallied 8.5 points, 3.6 assists and 1.8 rebounds per appearance. Previously the guard had stints with Pamesa Valencia, Partizan Beograd, Alicante. Vule Avdalovic used to play for Yugoslavian National Team back in 2001/05 seasons. Eurobasket.com named the guard All-Serbian League Defensive Player of the Year in 2005. In 2006 Vule Avdalovic was trumped All-Spanish ACB Bosman Player of the Year. The guard played for Serbia at 2006 World Championship. His stats read 6.7 points, 1.7 assists and 1.3 boards per game in Japan.


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


GB U20 Men defeat Netherlands and name final squad - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain's U20 Men squad collected back-to-back victories against the Netherlands this weekend in Bristol.

On Friday night GB won 98-80 behind 25 points from Devon Van Oostrum (189-G-93) and 18 from Ryan Richards (212-F-91, agency: Interperformances). Saturday night's game was a little bit tighter, but GB were eventually successful 60-55, with Richards again scoring 18 points.

Following the games, Head Coach Tim Lewis announced the 12 players that will make up the squad for the FIBA Europe U20 European Championship for Men Division B, which begins in Sarajevo on July 24. The squad is -

John Bantock (191-G) (England)
Alasdair Fraser (201-C-92) (Scotland)
Lee Goldsbrough (205-F-91) (England)
William Hall (201-G-91) (England)
Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) (England)
Alistair Mackay (208-C-91) (Scotland)
Levi Noel (197-G-91) (England)
Lee Reilly (182-G-92) (Scotland)
Ryan Richards (England)
William Harold Saunders (200-F-91) (England)
Adam Thoseby (196-F/G-91) (England)
Devon Van Oostrum (England)

The squad now faces two games against Denmark and two games against Belgium in Essex as their final warm ups for the European Championship.
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk



*****************************************************
  URUGUAY   


Results for the Metro League - by Hector Lopez
Verdirrojo beat 25 de Agosto 82-65 and the loser was relegated to play the third division tournament since next season. For Verdirrojo Emiliano Baston (200-F-88) netted 25 points grabbed 15 rebounds, while John Ruffus (207-F/C-81, college: Fayetteville St.) scored 31 points and took 16 rebounds. In another games, for the promotion to the Uruguayan League, Goes beat Nacional 89-67. For Nacional Terrence Shelman (198-F-78) scored 15 points with 6 rebounds and Roberto Amaro (197-F-69) scored 9 with 7 rebounds. For Goes Federico Haller (198-F-88) scored 24 points and grabbed 13 rebounds. Also Larranaga beat Atenas 89-79. Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) netted 21 points with 11 rebounds for Larranaga and Quentin Smith (205-C-77, college: Mississippi St.) netted 30 points with 6 rebounds for Atenas.



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Women News

*****************************************************
  AUSTRIA - Women  


Lithuania record first win in Reze - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - Austria U20 90:35

Lithuanian U20 National Team posted the first win at the Reze international tournament. They trounced Austrian counterparts to clinch the seventh overall position. Austria finished in the eighth position winless.
Lithuania capped the opening period on a 12:3 run to take 17:7 lead. They boosted the margin to as many as 22 points at halftime 40:18. The Baltic team opened the second half on a 10:0 run to clear off. They arrived at the final intermission leading by insurmountable 38 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) stepped up with 19 points to lead the effort. Monika Grigalauskyte (187-F-92) added 13 points, while Inesa Visgaudaite (172-PG-91) and Gintare Mazionyte (186-F/C-91) delivered 12 points each in the win. Diana Picorusevic (165-PG-92) responded with 9 points for Austria. Julia Koppl (187-F/C-91) had 6 points in the loss.

Lithuania U20: Santa Okockyte 19, Monika Grigalauskyte 13, Inesa Visgaudaite 12, Gintare Mazionyte 12
Austria U20: Diana Picorusevic 9, Julia Koppl 6


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


France nip China to triumph in Reze - by Eurobasket News
France U19 - China U19 53:52

France celebrated victory at the Reze international tournament in France. They narrowly defeated China to clinch the title. Jenny Fouasseau (179-F-92) stepped up with 17 points to lead Les Bleus.
France ensured an 18:16 lead after ten minutes of action. But China responded in the second period as they levelled things up at 30 after twenty minutes of action. France stiffened defence in the third term. They limited their opponents to just 8 points in the period and surged ahead for an 8-point lead with one quarter remaining. China went on a furious comeback effort in the fourth term almost denying the deficit. However the hosts turned luckier late in regulation sealing a tough win at the end. Melanie Devaux (171-G-92) knocked down 9 points for France. Mousdandy Djaldi-Tabdi (184-F-95) added 7 points in the victory. Zuo Jiayi (178-G-92) answered with 20 points for China. Sun Meng Ran (197-C-92) finished with 7 points in defeat.

France U19: Jenny Fouasseau 17, Melanie Devaux 9, Mousdandy Djaldi-Tabdi 7
China U19: Zuo Jiayi 20, Sun Meng Ran 7


*****************************************************
  CROATIA - Women  


Croatia beats Spain 75-71 in do-or-die game, goes to Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
SPAIN - CROATIA 71-75

It was the biggest surprise so far at the EuroBasket in Poland. Croatia grabbed 75-71 victory against Spain in do-or-die game for both teams. Thanks to this win Croatia ended as No.4 in Group F (2-3) and booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. Spain failed to reach the next stage as they ended as No.5 (2-3). Croatia will learn today who will be their rival in the QFinals. Sandra Mandir (175-G-77) was a key played in this fantastic victory with 24 points and 7 rebounds. Jelena Ivezic (182-F/G-84) had 15 points and 8 boards, while Luca Ivankovic (199-C-87) added 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Laia Palau (178-G-79) collected 19 points and 7 rebounds. Lucila Pascua (195-C-83) had 17 pts and 8 boards, while Elisa Aguilar (177-G-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: George Washington) added 13 pts.
The game winner is decided in the last quarter. Before that, Croatia made minimum lead 18-19 in Q1 and Spain responded with 22-19 until the halftime. Croatia was better in Q3 15-16 and teams went to the last ten minutes almost tied, 55-54. Spain jumped to 59-54 at the beginning of the last period, but than Croatia made crucial 2-14 run and later managed to keep its lead until the end.

Spain: Laia Palau 19+7 boards, Lucila Pascua 17+8 boards, Elisa Aguilar 13
Croatia: Sandra Mandir 24+7 boards, Jelena Ivezic 15+8 boards, Luca Ivankovic 12

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Group E: Russia beat Great Britain - by Lukasz Lukaszewski
Russia have won the game with Great Britain 62:59. Rusian advanced to the final round in d. For Great Britain it was the last game on this tournament. Elena Danilochikina scored
16 points, Maria Stepanova (203-C-79) added 12. Svetlana Abrosimova (185-F-80, college: Connecticut) and Ilona Korstin (183-G-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) poured 10. Kimberly Butler (186-F-82, college: Oregon St.)r ended this game with 15 points for Great Britain.

Russia started this game with Maria Stepanova lay-up. As always, British players were playing very ambitious. With 5:46 to play in the first quarter Kimberly Butlerr made a shot.
Great Britain was up by 3 6:9. Russia had been dominating on the boards, but they had too many turnovers to take a lead. Kimberly Butlerr made another shot with 4:01 remaining in the first quarter. British had a 5 point lead. Then, Russian coach called a timeout. Great Britain constantly increased the advantage. With 1:27 to play in the first quarter Johannah Leedham (180-G/F-87, college: Franklin Pierce) buried three pointer and the score was 6:18 for Great Britain. Russian players were not able to score any points between 7:06 and 1:07 in the first quarter. Irina Osipova (196-C/F-81) cancelled this run with two free throws. After the first quarter Russia was down by 12 8:20.

Great Britain continued run in the second quarter. With 8:02 to play in the second British had 15 point lead. Russian players had been playing with terrible execution, they missed
many easy shots. Russian played better in defense. They were able to reduce British advantage to 8 points in the middle of the quarter. In the middle of the game Great Britain had got only 5 points advantage 22:27.

In the beginning of the third quarter Russia scored 6 straight points and had taken the lead 28:27. British coach Tom Maher automatically called a timeout. Then, we had 5 lead
changes in two minutes of play ! After that score was tie 33:33. Elena Danilochkina (185-G-86) made a long distance shot and Russia get back on the lead. Neither team was able to stay on the lead for a long time. Before the last quarter Great Britain had got 3 points advantage 43:46. Both teams started last period very nervously. With 7:23 remaining Great Britain elaborate 7 points lead 44:51. British scored all points in this quarter from the free throw line. Russian was completely helpless and Russian coach Boris Sokolovskiy called timeout with 5:33 to play in the last quarter.

Russian started reduced their lost. After Maria Stepanova lay-up Russia was down by 3 52:55. It was 3:22 to the end of the fourth quarter. With 1:29 to play Svetlana Abrosimova tied the game scoring one point from free throw line. Then, Elena Danilochcika buried a three pointer. The score was 60:57 for Russia with 48 seconds remaining . British coach called his last timeout. After that Svetlana Abrosimova added 2 points for Russia.. One second before the horn Ilona Korstin fouled Natalie Stafford (173-G-76). Referee decided to disqualify this player. Great Britain was down by 5. British made two free throws, but It was all. Russia won this game 62:59.


Russia Great Britain 62:59 (8:20, 14:7, 21:19, 19:13)
Russia: Elena Danilochkina 16, Maria Stepanova 12, Ilona Korstin 10, Svetlana Abrosimova 10
Great Britain: Kimberly Butlerr 15, Natalie Stafford 14, Johannah Leedham 11


Group E: Turkey go to Lodz, Belarus go home - by Lukasz Lukaszewski
That was a do-or-die game for both games. That was also the last game in Bydgoszcz and the last game of the second round. Thanks to great third quarter Turkey won the game
against Belarus 65:56. Turkey will fight with Montegro in quarter final. Belarusian are going back to their homes. Saziye Ivegin (183-F-82) scored 17 points,Nevriye Yilmaz (194-C-80) and Birsel Vardarli (174-G-80) added 13. Natalia Marchanka (170-G-79) end the game with 12 points for Belarus.

Belarus started the game with jump shot by Nataliya Trafimava (186-F-79). Belarusian players after Yelena Leuchanka lay-up had got 4 point lead 6:2. Players knew how important was that game and they played very ambitious. Then, Turkey scored 5 straight points and taken the lead. After that Turkey continued their run. With 2:22 to play in the first quarter Turkey was up by 8 10:18. Turkish players made 4 long distance shot during first 8 minutes of play. Belarusian coach called a timeout. But Belarus could not stop Saziye Ivegin she
made additional 2 three pointers in the first quarter. After first quarter Turkey had got 10 points advantage 14:24.

Natalia Marchanka poured three pointers in the second quarter. Belarus reduced the lost to 4 points 22:26. Turkish coach wanted to talk with his players. Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) made another long distance shot for Belarus and we had one point game. Few moments later Katerina Snytsina (188-F-85) tied the game making lay-up for Belarus. Isil Alben (170-G-86) added two points for Turkey. Belarus tied the game once again, but they were not able to take a lead. In the middle of the game Turkey had a 4 point lead 30:34.

Turkey started second half with great 5:0 run. After Birsel Vardarli lay-up they had 9 points advantage 30:39. Turkish had been increasing their lead. With 5:51 after Nevriye Yilmaz
lay-up they had 11 point advantage 32:43. Belarusian coach called a timeout. Then, Turkey added another two points by Saziye Ivegin lay-up. Belarus scored only points in first 7
minutes of third quarter. Tatyana Troina made two free throws, but Turkey still had got 13 points advantage. Before the last quarter Turkey was up by 15 34:49.

Turkish started fourth quarter with Isil Alben two points. Then, Belarus scored 8 straight points. After Tatyana Troina 2+1 action score was 42:51 for Turkey. The game was still
open. With 7:16 remaining Turkish coach called a timeout. Then, Tugba Palazoglu (171-G-80) made a shot and rebuilt Turkish advatange to 11 points. After that both teams were playing basket for basket. With 5:09 to play in the fourth Tugba Palazoglu hit the jump shot. Turkey had got 13 point lead and Belarusian coach called timeout. Belarus had about 5:09
to get back in this game. With 3 minutes and 3 seconds to play Turkey still had got 10 point lead. Yuliya Dureika (180-F/G-86, agency: LBM Management) reduced the lost to 8 points 30 seconds later. Then Turkish player Birsel Vardarli noticed 4 straight points and rebuilt the lead to 12 points. Although Belarus effort Turkey have won this game.

Belarus Turkey 56:65 (14:24, 16:10, 4:15, 22:16)

Belarus: Natalia Marchanka 12, Nataliya Trafimava 11
Turkey: Saziye Ivegin 17, Birsel Vardarli 13, Nevriye Yilmaz 13 + 11 reb.


Group E: Czech Republic clinched first position - by Lukasz Lukaszewski
Czech Republic beat Lithuania 63:59. That game was a fight between two best teams from Group E. Czech Republic secured this place and they will play in quarterfinal with Croatia. Lithuania will fight with France. Eva Victeckova showed a great performance ending the game 26 points and 7 rebounds. Also Katerina Elhotova (180-G-89) noticed double figures She scored 15 points. Ausra Bimbaite (179-G-82) poured 15 points, but It was not enough to win for her team.

That game was a very aligned fight at the beginning. Lithuania had taken the small lead. But after that Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) made a three point shot and Czech were leading by 1 12:11. Then, Lithuania scored 5 straight points and get back on the lead. After Vaida Sipaviciute (193-C-85, college: Syracuse) shot Lithuanian were leading by 6 14:20. With 2:46 to play in the first quarter Czechs coach called a timeout. Thanks to great 11:2 run Lithuania won the first quarter 14:22. Ilona Burgrova (196-C-84, college: S.Carolina) made two free throws for Czech Republic, but Lithuania responded with Ausra Bimbaite three point shot. Then, the game was very aligned. Lithuania cannot increase their lead and Czechs cannot reduced the lost. Teams were playing very hard defense, Czech Republic had got an advantage on the boards, but they were not able to take the lead. Eva Viteckova scored 6 points and gave a great assist in last two minutes Thanks to it in the middle of the game Czech Republic was down only by 1 35:36.

After the brake Eva Viteckova noticed another 2 points and Czech Republic had taken the lead. Then ,Agne Abromaite (190-C/F-79) tied the game from free throw line. The score was 37:37. After that Katerina Elhotova scored two points for Czech Republic. After Veronika Bortelova (169-G-78) shot Czech Republic had 4 point lead - 41:37. Lithuanian coach reaction was very clear: Timeout. Czechs played very good zone defense. Czech Republic added another four straight points to their score. Then Lithuania poured 4 points in a row and Czechs coach wanted to talk with his players. Before the last quarter Czech Republic had got 5 point lead 49:44.

Eva Viteckova started the last quarter with a three pointer for Czech Republic. Then, Lithuania scored 7 straight points and reduced disadvantage to 1 point. With 6:06 remaining
Marina Solopova hit the three and Lithuania get back on the lead. Then Eva Viteckova made two free throws and tied the game. Veronika Bortelova made a lay-up and Czech
Republic elaborated two point disadvantage. With 2:50 remaining Petra Kulichova (198-C-84) scored two points for Czech Republic and they had a 4 point lead 58:54. Both team had player very hard. With 1:15 remaining Sandra Linkeviciene (176-G-82) made 1 free throw and it was a one point game. Eva Viteckova buried a three pointer 34 seconds before the horn. Lithuanian coach called his last timeout his team had got 4 point disadvantage 61:57. Then Ausra Bimbaite made two free throws . Lithuanian fouled Jana Vesela (192-F-83). She made two free throws either. Czech Republic have won this game 63:59

Czech Republic Lithuania 63:59 (14:22, 21:14, 14:8, 14:15)

Czech Rep.: Eva Viteckova 26, Katerina Elhotova 15, Ilona Burgrova 8 + 11 reb.
Lithuania: Ausra Bimbaite 15, Gintare Petronyte (196-C-89) 11


Quarterfinals are set - by Eurobasket News
Group E
Czech Republic - Lithuania 63-59
Czech Republic beat Lithuania 63:59. That game was a fight between two best teams from Group E. Czech Republic secured this place and they will play in quarterfinal with Croatia. Lithuania will fight with France. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) showed a great performance ending the game 26 points and 7 rebounds. Also Katerina Elhotova noticed double figures She scored 15 points. Ausra Bimbaite poured 15 points, but It was not enough to win for her team.
That game was a very aligned fight at the beginning. Lithuania had taken the small lead. But after that Eva Viteckova made a three point shot and Czech were leading by 1 12:11. Then, Lithuania scored 5 straight points and get back on the lead. After Vaida Sipaviciute shot Lithuanian were leading by 6 14:20. With 2:46 to play in the first quarter Czechs coach called a timeout. Thanks to great 11:2 run Lithuania won the first quarter 14:22. Ilona Burgrova made two free throws for Czech Republic, but Lithuania responded with Ausra Bimbaite three point shot. Then, the game was very aligned. Lithuania cannot increase their lead and Czechs cannot reduced the lost. Teams were playing very hard defense, Czech Republic had got an advantage on the boards, but they were not able to take the lead. Eva Viteckova scored 6 points and gave a great assist in last two minutes Thanks to it in the middle of the game Czech Republic was down only by 1 35:36.
After the brake Eva Viteckova noticed another 2 points and Czech Republic had taken the lead. Then ,Agne Abromaite tied the game from free throw line. The score was 37:37. After that Katerina Elhotova scored two points for Czech Republic. After Veronika Bortelova shot Czech Republic had 4 point lead - 41:37. Lithuanian coach reaction was very clear: Timeout. Czechs played very good zone defense. Czech Republic added another four straight points to their score. Then Lithuania poured 4 points in a row and Czechs coach wanted to talk with his players. Before the last quarter Czech Republic had got 5 point lead 49:44.
Eva Viteckova started the last quarter with a three pointer for Czech Republic. Then, Lithuania scored 7 straight points and reduced disadvantage to 1 point. With 6:06 remaining
Marina Solopova hit the three and Lithuania get back on the lead. Then Eva Viteckova made two free throws and tied the game. Veronika Bortelova made a lay-up and Czech
Republic elaborated two point disadvantage. With 2:50 remaining Petra Kulichova scored two points for Czech Republic and they had a 4 point lead 58:54. Both team had player very hard. With 1:15 remaining Sandra Linkeviciene made 1 free throw and it was a one point game. Eva Viteckova buried a three pointer 34 seconds before the horn. Lithuanian coach called his last timeout his team had got 4 point disadvantage 61:57. Then Ausra Bimbaite made two free throws . Lithuanian fouled Jana Vesela. She made two free throws either. Czech Republic have won this game 63:59. *BY LUKASZ LUKASZEWSKI

Belarus - Turkey 56-65
That was a do-or-die game for both games. That was also the last game in Bydgoszcz and the last game of the second round. Thanks to great third quarter Turkey won the game
against Belarus 65:56. Turkey will fight with Montegro in quarter final. Belarusian are going back to their homes. Saziye Ivegin scored 17 points,Nevriye Yilmaz and Birsel Vardarli added 13. Natalia Marchanka end the game with 12 points for Belarus.
Belarus started the game with jump shot by Nataliya Trafimava. Belarusian players after Yelena Leuchanka lay-up had got 4 point lead 6:2. Players knew how important was that game and they played very ambitious. Then, Turkey scored 5 straight points and taken the lead. After that Turkey continued their run. With 2:22 to play in the first quarter Turkey was up by 8 10:18. Turkish players made 4 long distance shot during first 8 minutes of play. Belarusian coach called a timeout. But Belarus could not stop Saziye Ivegin she
made additional 2 three pointers in the first quarter. After first quarter Turkey had got 10 points advantage 14:24.
Natalia Marchanka poured three pointers in the second quarter. Belarus reduced the lost to 4 points 22:26. Turkish coach wanted to talk with his players. Tatyana Troina made another long distance shot for Belarus and we had one point game. Few moments later Katerina Snytsina tied the game making lay-up for Belarus. Isil Alben (170-G-86) added two points for Turkey. Belarus tied the game once again, but they were not able to take a lead. In the middle of the game Turkey had a 4 point lead 30:34.
Turkey started second half with great 5:0 run. After Birsel Vardarli lay-up they had 9 points advantage 30:39. Turkish had been increasing their lead. With 5:51 after Nevriye Yilmaz
lay-up they had 11 point advantage 32:43. Belarusian coach called a timeout. Then, Turkey added another two points by Saziye Ivegin lay-up. Belarus scored only points in first 7
minutes of third quarter. Tatyana Troina made two free throws, but Turkey still had got 13 points advantage. Before the last quarter Turkey was up by 15 34:49.
Turkish started fourth quarter with Isil Alben two points. Then, Belarus scored 8 straight points. After Tatyana Troina 2+1 action score was 42:51 for Turkey. The game was still
open. With 7:16 remaining Turkish coach called a timeout. Then, Tugba Palazoglu made a shot and rebuilt Turkish advatange to 11 points. After that both teams were playing basket for basket. With 5:09 to play in the fourth Tugba Palazoglu hit the jump shot. Turkey had got 13 point lead and Belarusian coach called timeout. Belarus had about 5:09
to get back in this game. With 3 minutes and 3 seconds to play Turkey still had got 10 point lead. Yuliya Dureika reduced the lost to 8 points 30 seconds later. Then Turkish player Birsel Vardarli noticed 4 straight points and rebuilt the lead to 12 points. Although Belarus effort Turkey have won this game. *LUKASZ LUKASZEWSKI

Russia - United Kingdom 62-59
Russia have won the game with Great Britain 62:59. Rusian advanced to the final round in d. For Great Britain it was the last game on this tournament. Elena Danilochikina scored
16 points, Maria Stepanova added 12. Svetlana Abrosimova and Ilona Korstin poured 10. Kimberly Butler ended this game with 15 points for Great Britain.
Russia started this game with Maria Stepanova lay-up. As always, British players were playing very ambitious. With 5:46 to play in the first quarter Kimberly Butlerr made a shot.
Great Britain was up by 3 6:9. Russia had been dominating on the boards, but they had too many turnovers to take a lead. Kimberly Butlerr made another shot with 4:01 remaining in the first quarter. British had a 5 point lead. Then, Russian coach called a timeout. Great Britain constantly increased the advantage. With 1:27 to play in the first quarter Johannah Leedham buried three pointer and the score was 6:18 for Great Britain. Russian players were not able to score any points between 7:06 and 1:07 in the first quarter. Irina Osipova cancelled this run with two free throws. After the first quarter Russia was down by 12 8:20.
Great Britain continued run in the second quarter. With 8:02 to play in the second British had 15 point lead. Russian players had been playing with terrible execution, they missed
many easy shots. Russian played better in defense. They were able to reduce British advantage to 8 points in the middle of the quarter. In the middle of the game Great Britain had got only 5 points advantage 22:27.
In the beginning of the third quarter Russia scored 6 straight points and had taken the lead 28:27. British coach Tom Maher automatically called a timeout. Then, we had 5 lead
changes in two minutes of play ! After that score was tie 33:33. Elena Danilochkina made a long distance shot and Russia get back on the lead. Neither team was able to stay on the lead for a long time. Before the last quarter Great Britain had got 3 points advantage 43:46. Both teams started last period very nervously. With 7:23 remaining Great Britain elaborate 7 points lead 44:51. British scored all points in this quarter from the free throw line. Russian was completely helpless and Russian coach Boris Sokolovskiy called timeout with 5:33 to play in the last quarter.
Russian started reduced their lost. After Maria Stepanova lay-up Russia was down by 3 52:55. It was 3:22 to the end of the fourth quarter. With 1:29 to play Svetlana Abrosimova tied the game scoring one point from free throw line. Then, Elena Danilochcika buried a three pointer. The score was 60:57 for Russia with 48 seconds remaining . British coach called his last timeout. After that Svetlana Abrosimova added 2 points for Russia.. One second before the horn Ilona Korstin fouled Natalie Stafford. Referee decided to disqualify this player. Great Britain was down by 5. British made two free throws, but It was all. Russia won this game 62:59. *BY LUKASZ LUKASZEWSKI

Group F
Latvia - Montenegro 70-74
Montenegro won the Group B in Katowice with perfect 5-0 record. They outplayed Latvia 74-70 in crucial game for the first place in this pool. Latvia ended as No.2 with 3-2 score. Of course, both teams advanced to Quarterfinals. They will learn today who will be their rivals. Jelena Dubljevic (191-C-87) stepped up for Montenegro this time collecting 24 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists. Anna De Forge (178-G-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Nebraska) had 15 points and 6 rebounds, while Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) helped with 13 pts. Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) responded with 16 points in defeat. Gunta Basko (181-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Siena) followed her with 12 points and 5 assists.
It was a game full of turns. Latvia opened it with 22-16 lead in the first period and Montenegro blasted them 14-29 in Q2. Teams were almost leveled in Q3 (12-13) and Montenegro was 10-points up before the last 10:00. Latvia threatened in Q4, but was not able to avoid defeat in this meeting.

France - Poland 58-54
France grabbed 58-54 win against Poland to end the second stage as No.3 in Group F with 3-2 record. It means that France advanced to Quarterfinals, where they will meet Lithuania, Czech Republic or Russia. It will be decided today. On the other side, Poland ended as the last ranked team in Group F with poor 0-5. Emilie Gomis (180-G/F-83) top-scored in victory with 15 points. Sandrine Gruda (194-C-87) had 11 and she was the last one with double-digits in scoring. The hosts got 16 points and 9 rebounds from Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82). Elzbieta Mowlik (180-F-83, agency: Data Plus Group) netted three less.
Poland had a great beginning as they made 8-15 lead in the first ten minutes. However, France took control on them after that limiting Poland to just 4 pts in the second period (16-4). The hosts exploded after the breather again wining Q3 with impressive 15-25. It seemed at that time that Poland will take their first win at this event, but that didn't happen as France ended last ten minutes with 19-10 for the final 58-54 victory.

Spain - Croatia 71-75
It was the biggest surprise so far at the EuroBasket in Poland. Croatia grabbed 75-71 victory against Spain in do-or-die game for both teams. Thanks to this win Croatia ended as No.4 in Group F (2-3) and booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. Spain failed to reach the next stage as they ended as No.5 (2-3). Croatia will learn today who will be their rival in the QFinals. Sandra Mandir (175-G-77) was a key played in this fantastic victory with 24 points and 7 rebounds. Jelena Ivezic (182-F/G-84) had 15 points and 8 boards, while Luca Ivankovic (199-C-87) added 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Laia Palau (178-G-79) collected 19 points and 7 rebounds. Lucila Pascua (195-C-83) had 17 pts and 8 boards, while Elisa Aguilar (177-G-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: George Washington) added 13 pts.
The game winner is decided in the last quarter. Before that, Croatia made minimum lead 18-19 in Q1 and Spain responded with 22-19 until the halftime. Croatia was better in Q3 15-16 and teams went to the last ten minutes almost tied, 55-54. Spain jumped to 59-54 at the beginning of the last period, but than Croatia made crucial 2-14 run and later managed to keep its lead until the end.

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. Zherzherunov., UKR15.5 
 7. Elhotova, CZE15.5 
 8. Yilmaz, TUR15.2 
 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. Zherzherunov., UKR8.3 
 6. Leuchanka, BLR8.2 
 7. Stepanova, RUS8.2 
 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. Mandir, CRO4.2 
 4. Bortelova, CZE4.0 
 5. Marchanka, BLR3.8 
 6. Vardarli, TUR3.7 
 7. Pawlak, POL3.5 
 8. Dumerc, FRA3.5 
 9. Bar, GER3.3 
 10. Zara, ITA3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Sandra LINKEVICIENE
  LTU
  (176-G-82)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Linkeviciene, LTU2.8 
 2. Kalentzou, GRE2.7 
 3. Zherzherunov., UKR2.5 
 4. Lyttle, ESP2.5 
 5. Palau, ESP2.5 
 6. Mayombo, BEL2.5 
 7. De Forge, MNT2.4 
 8. Bar, GER2.3 
 9. Bimbaite, LTU2.3 
 10. Zlatanova, BUL2.3 
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, BLR1.4 
 5. Burgrova, CZE1.3 
 6. Khomenchuk, UKR1.3 
 7. Popovic, MNT1.2 
 8. Tamane, LAT1.2 
 9. Vynuchalova, SVK1.0 
 10. Kupcikova, SVK1.0 


Standings Div.A (Women)
Standings
Group E
1. Czech Rep.4-1
2. Lithuania4-1
3. Russia3-2
4. Turkey2-3
5. Belarus2-3
6. U.Kingdom0-5
Group F
1. Montenegro5-0
2. Latvia3-2
3. France3-2
4. Croatia2-3
5. Spain2-3
6. Poland0-5


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


Russia U20 wins Bourg-en-Bresse 4-nation campaign - by Eurobasket News
Russia U20 wins Bourg-en-Bresse 4-nation campaign as the team won all three games. In the decisive game Russia beat France 64:60 to remain unbeaten and win the tournament. France meanwhile finished third with 1-2 record.
Germany U20 selection meanwhile finished second at the Bourg en Bresse International Tournament. The team won two game sand lost to Russia, who became the winner of it. In the last game Germany overcame Romania 70:55 as the latter became winless at the campaign.





Lina Brazdeikyte comes back to Graffenstaden - by Eurobasket News
Lina Brazdeikyte (185-F-74) comes back to Graffenstaden roster after the maternity leave. In 1998-1999 thr Lithuanian Forward started for Funchal (Portugal) and then played for Bordeaux (France-LFB), Istres (France-LFB), Reims (France-LFB) and Stade Clermontois (France-LFB). The season 2004-2005 appeared in Deerliij (Belguim), then moved to Racing Club Strasbourg (France-LFB, starting five) and averaged10.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.6apg, 0.9spg, 2FGP: 42.1%, 3FGP: 19.2%, FT: 76.8%. In 2005-2006 played for Racing Club Strasbourg (France-LFB) showing 12.1ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 75.7%. In
2006-2007 moved to Cote d'Opale Basket Calais (France-LFB, starting five) and stayed there for three seasons. In the last one she averaged 8.4ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 37.9%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 80.0%. The season 2009-2010 started for Strasbourg Illkirch-Graffenstaden (France-NF1, starting five) but had to miss a year due to maternity leave.
The team also announced keeping Philippe Breitenbucher , Franois Lepelletier, Chloe Westelynck (188-F-91), Celine Schmitt-Sendner, Caroline Nestor-Deininger (183-F-80), Amina Njonkou (185-F-88, college: Arizona), Celine Pfister (170-G-94), Aline Fischbach (178-F-89), Lucie Battaglia (163-G-85), Heloise Boissinot (174-G/F-86), Celia Mauler, Justine Jeannelle.



Basket-Landes keep the majority of the squad - by Eurobasket News
Basket-Landes keep the majority of the squad for the next season. The team announced keeping Katarina Manic (181-G-80), Jennifer Humphrey (191-C-84, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Kentucky), Marion Laborde (178-F/G-86), Anais Le Gluher (177-F-82), Bineta Diouf (186-C/F-79), Julie Barennes (183-F-86), Amlie Pochet, Julia Borde (184-F-92) and Sarah Ousfar.
Moreover Camille Aubert (170-G-89) will be the new addition to the squad for 2011/2012 season. In 2005-2006 the French Guard joined Centre Federal BB (NF1) and in 2007-2008 appeared in Valenciennes USVO (LFB). In Euroleague after 10 games se averaged 1.2ppg, 1.0rpg; while in French League showed 2.0ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.1apg. The next two seasons she played for Reze Nantes Basket 44 and in the last one averaged 3.1ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.1apg. The last season Camille Aubert played for Toulouse Metropole Basket (LFB, starting five) and after 24 games had 8.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 34.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 78.4%.
Basket-Landes also announced not keeping Tamera Young (188-G-86, college: JMU), Aminata Konate (170-G-90), Laurie Lapeyre. Aminata Konate signed in Nice, while Laurie Lapeyre will continue with EBPLO-Mourenx.



France nip China to triumph in Reze - by Eurobasket News
France U19 - China U19 53:52

France celebrated victory at the Reze international tournament in France. They narrowly defeated China to clinch the title. Jenny Fouasseau (179-F-92) stepped up with 17 points to lead Les Bleus.
France ensured an 18:16 lead after ten minutes of action. But China responded in the second period as they levelled things up at 30 after twenty minutes of action. France stiffened defence in the third term. They limited their opponents to just 8 points in the period and surged ahead for an 8-point lead with one quarter remaining. China went on a furious comeback effort in the fourth term almost denying the deficit. However the hosts turned luckier late in regulation sealing a tough win at the end. Melanie Devaux (171-G-92) knocked down 9 points for France. Mousdandy Djaldi-Tabdi (184-F-95) added 7 points in the victory. Zuo Jiayi (178-G-92) answered with 20 points for China. Sun Meng Ran (197-C-92) finished with 7 points in defeat.

France U19: Jenny Fouasseau 17, Melanie Devaux 9, Mousdandy Djaldi-Tabdi 7
China U19: Zuo Jiayi 20, Sun Meng Ran 7


France escapes with 58-54 win against Poland - by Eurobasket News
FRANCE - POLAND 58-54

France grabbed 58-54 win against Poland to end the second stage as No.3 in Group F with 3-2 record. It means that France advanced to Quarterfinals, where they will meet Lithuania, Czech Republic or Russia. It will be decided today. On the other side, Poland ended as the last ranked team in Group F with poor 0-5. Emilie Gomis (180-G/F-83) top-scored in victory with 15 points. Sandrine Gruda (194-C-87) had 11 and she was the last one with double-digits in scoring. The hosts got 16 points and 9 rebounds from Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82). Elzbieta Mowlik (180-F-83, agency: Data Plus Group) netted three less.
Poland had a great beginning as they made 8-15 lead in the first ten minutes. However, France took control on them after that limiting Poland to just 4 pts in the second period (16-4). The hosts exploded after the breather again wining Q3 with impressive 15-25. It seemed at that time that Poland will take their first win at this event, but that didn't happen as France ended last ten minutes with 19-10 for the final 58-54 victory.

France: Emilie Gomis 15, Sandrine Gruda 11
Poland: Ewelina Kobryn 16+9 boards, Elzbieta Mowlik 13

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  GERMANY - Women  


Hoeoetmann and Ohanian stay with TSV Wasserburg - by Marsha Owusu Gyamfi
Two german players -Jessica Hoeoetmann und Jezabel Ohanian (170-F-77)- stay with TSV Wasserburg for the next season. Both won the german cup and championchip last year. For Jessica Hoeoetmann everything went fine with her first year in smalltown Wasserburg. She feels already home there and looks forward to her next year.

Jezabel Ohanian (170-F-77) scored 6.3 PpG in 13.53 MpG last season. Hoeoetmann moved to the starting five during the season averaging 6.0 PpG, adding 2.7 RpG in 18.26 MpG. Both played 30 Games for the Champion TSV Wasserburg.

Germany U20 selection finished second at the Bourg en Bresse International Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Germany U20-Romania U20 70:55

Germany U20 selection finished second at the Bourg en Bresse International Tournament. The team won two game sand lost to Russia, who became the winner of it. In the last game Germany overcame Romania 70:55 as the latter became winless at the campaign.
Germany opened the game with 14-9 and added 17-15 in the second frame. They never looked behind after putting another two frames into successful end. In the third quarter Germany celebrated 21-5 win and added 18-16 in the last stanza.
Julia Gaudermann (166-PG-92) top-scored for the winners with 13 points, while Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92), Christina Schnorr (187-F-92) and Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) added 12 each. Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) finished the game with 13 points, while Gabriela Cursaru (169-PG-92) netted 11. Ruxandra Mitroi and Flavia Ferenczi (175-F-91) scored 6 points each, whilst Adina Stoiedin (187-C/F-91) delivered 5.

Germany U20: Julia Gaudermann 13, Sonja Greinacher 12, Christina Schnorr 12, Finja Schaake 12
Romania U20: Cristina Bigica 13, Gabriela Cursaru 11, Ruxandra Mitroi 6, Flavia Ferenczi 6, Adina Stoiedin 5



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  HOLLAND - Women  


Sweden ease past Netherlands in Reze - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20 - Netherlands U20 83:57

Swedish U20 National Team wrapped up their Reze international tournament campaign with victory. They cruised past Netherlands to claim the fifth overall spot. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) stepped up with 24 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge.
Netherlands got to a slightly better start as they led early on. But Sweden surged in front late in the period and posted a 23:16 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at double figures in the second frame. Sweden established a 38:24 lead at halftime. The Scandinavians did not loosen the grip in the third term. They boosted their advantage to as many as 20 points with one quarter remaining. Netherlands failed to rebound in the fourth quarter and had to yield at the end. Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) nailed 20 points, while Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) added 13 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Kourtney Treffers (186-F-94) answered with 15 points for Netherlands. Zera Butter (179-G-92) had 14 points in the loss.

Sweden U20: Farhiya Abdi 24, Binta Drammeh 20, Cleopatra Forsman-Goga 13
Netherlands U20: Kourtney Treffers 15, Zera Butter 14



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  INDIA - Women  


Promoting the development of womens basketball in India: - by M. Rajalingam
In this article, I am going to talk about the methods of promoting the womens basketball development in India. It includes answers to the questions like, In what ways can marketing, publicity and promotional campaigns help promote the development of womens basketball in India? What are key factors for success?

Here comes the answers for the above questions.

Strategy 1:

Develop and nurture strong media relationships to maximize opportunities for media exposure of womens basketball



Build a database of media contacts (national, regional, local); contact them directly, rather than rely on media releases

Appoint a media liaison person (officer) to specifically develop and enhance relations with the media on womens basketball

Get to know your players; it improves your ability to promote them

Identify at least one member of the womens national team to act as a spokesperson with the media

Monitor effectiveness of your work

Strategy 2:

Use national and international events to promote womens basketball at all levels

These events provide a platform to raise awareness of womens basketball and provide a launch pad for further growth.

Keys to maximizing this opportunity include:

Enables launch of promotional events (selection process for your national team, events and festivals, use of celebrities as ambassadors, etc)

Enables the launch of development initiatives to promote the event

Opportunity to change perceptions about womens basketball

Strategy 3:

Grassroots development strategy:

Whats the need of the hour, are the grassroots academies and tournament structure which is regular and organized. There should be more tournaments and events happening in school, college, corporate and club level, so as to encourage participation of women players in the game.

Strategy 3:

The six phase approach:

I personally suggest a six phase approach fro the promotion and publicity action for womens basketball development in India.

Six phases:

1) Initial research;

2) Publicity campaign for the womens National Teams;

3) Publicity campaigns in the selected host cities;

4) A national publicity campaign;

5) Tournament communication plan;

6) Audit and review.



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  LATVIA - Women  


Montenegro wins Group F with perfect record - by Eurobasket News
LATVIA - MONTENEGRO 70-74

Montenegro won the Group B in Katowice with perfect 5-0 record. They outplayed Latvia 74-70 in crucial game for the first place in this pool. Latvia ended as No.2 with 3-2 score. Of course, both teams advanced to Quarterfinals. They will learn today who will be their rivals. Jelena Dubljevic (191-C-87) stepped up for Montenegro this time collecting 24 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists. Anna De Forge (178-G-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Nebraska) had 15 points and 6 rebounds, while Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) helped with 13 pts. Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) responded with 16 points in defeat. Gunta Basko (181-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Siena) followed her with 12 points and 5 assists.
It was a game full of turns. Latvia opened it with 22-16 lead in the first period and Montenegro blasted them 14-29 in Q2. Teams were almost leveled in Q3 (12-13) and Montenegro was 10-points up before the last 10:00. Latvia threatened in Q4, but was not able to avoid defeat in this meeting.

Latvia: Ieva Kublina 16, Gunta Basko 12+5 as
Montenegro: Jelena Dubljevic 24+11 boards+6 as, Anna De Forge 15+6 boards, Iva Perovanovic 13

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  LITHUANIA - Women  


Lithuania record first win in Reze - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - Austria U20 90:35

Lithuanian U20 National Team posted the first win at the Reze international tournament. They trounced Austrian counterparts to clinch the seventh overall position. Austria finished in the eighth position winless.
Lithuania capped the opening period on a 12:3 run to take 17:7 lead. They boosted the margin to as many as 22 points at halftime 40:18. The Baltic team opened the second half on a 10:0 run to clear off. They arrived at the final intermission leading by insurmountable 38 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) stepped up with 19 points to lead the effort. Monika Grigalauskyte (187-F-92) added 13 points, while Inesa Visgaudaite (172-PG-91) and Gintare Mazionyte (186-F/C-91) delivered 12 points each in the win. Diana Picorusevic (165-PG-92) responded with 9 points for Austria. Julia Koppl (187-F/C-91) had 6 points in the loss.

Lithuania U20: Santa Okockyte 19, Monika Grigalauskyte 13, Inesa Visgaudaite 12, Gintare Mazionyte 12
Austria U20: Diana Picorusevic 9, Julia Koppl 6


Lina Brazdeikyte comes back to Graffenstaden - by Eurobasket News
Lina Brazdeikyte (185-F-74) comes back to Graffenstaden roster after the maternity leave. In 1998-1999 thr Lithuanian Forward started for Funchal (Portugal) and then played for Bordeaux (France-LFB), Istres (France-LFB), Reims (France-LFB) and Stade Clermontois (France-LFB). The season 2004-2005 appeared in Deerliij (Belguim), then moved to Racing Club Strasbourg (France-LFB, starting five) and averaged10.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.6apg, 0.9spg, 2FGP: 42.1%, 3FGP: 19.2%, FT: 76.8%. In 2005-2006 played for Racing Club Strasbourg (France-LFB) showing 12.1ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 75.7%. In
2006-2007 moved to Cote d'Opale Basket Calais (France-LFB, starting five) and stayed there for three seasons. In the last one she averaged 8.4ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 37.9%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 80.0%. The season 2009-2010 started for Strasbourg Illkirch-Graffenstaden (France-NF1, starting five) but had to miss a year due to maternity leave.
The team also announced keeping Philippe Breitenbucher , Franois Lepelletier, Chloe Westelynck (188-F-91), Celine Schmitt-Sendner, Caroline Nestor-Deininger (183-F-80), Amina Njonkou (185-F-88, college: Arizona), Celine Pfister (170-G-94), Aline Fischbach (178-F-89), Lucie Battaglia (163-G-85), Heloise Boissinot (174-G/F-86), Celia Mauler, Justine Jeannelle.



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  MONTENEGRO - Women  


Montenegro wins Group F with perfect record - by Eurobasket News
LATVIA - MONTENEGRO 70-74

Montenegro won the Group B in Katowice with perfect 5-0 record. They outplayed Latvia 74-70 in crucial game for the first place in this pool. Latvia ended as No.2 with 3-2 score. Of course, both teams advanced to Quarterfinals. They will learn today who will be their rivals. Jelena Dubljevic (191-C-87) stepped up for Montenegro this time collecting 24 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists. Anna De Forge (178-G-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Nebraska) had 15 points and 6 rebounds, while Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) helped with 13 pts. Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) responded with 16 points in defeat. Gunta Basko (181-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Siena) followed her with 12 points and 5 assists.
It was a game full of turns. Latvia opened it with 22-16 lead in the first period and Montenegro blasted them 14-29 in Q2. Teams were almost leveled in Q3 (12-13) and Montenegro was 10-points up before the last 10:00. Latvia threatened in Q4, but was not able to avoid defeat in this meeting.

Latvia: Ieva Kublina 16, Gunta Basko 12+5 as
Montenegro: Jelena Dubljevic 24+11 boards+6 as, Anna De Forge 15+6 boards, Iva Perovanovic 13

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  NIGERIA - Women  


Nigeria overcome Russia in Reze - by Eurobasket News
Nigeria U19 - Russia U19 67:57

Nigeria claimed the third overall position at Reze tournament in France. They toppled Russia in consolation final. Sarah Imovbioh delivered 19 points and 10 rebounds to pace the African side.
Nigeria ensured a strong start. They recorded a 15:8 lead after ten minutes. Nigeria led by 9 points midway through the second term but Russia denied the deficit. They capped the half on an 11:2 run to knot things up at 27. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term before Nigeria spurred ahead for a 47:43 lead at the final intermission. Nigeria opened the final term on a 15:6 run and did not look back en route to the victory. Uju Ugoka accounted for 14 points and 8 rebounds for Nigeria. Promise Amukamara dropped 10 points in the victory. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-C/F-93, agency: RIZO) responded with 17 points for Russia. Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) netted 10 points in defeat.

Nigeria U19: Sarah Imovbioh 19+10 boards, Uju Ugoka 14, Promise Amukamara 8
Russia U19: Ksenia Tikhonenko 17, Alexandra Stolyar 10


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  POLAND - Women  


France escapes with 58-54 win against Poland - by Eurobasket News
FRANCE - POLAND 58-54

France grabbed 58-54 win against Poland to end the second stage as No.3 in Group F with 3-2 record. It means that France advanced to Quarterfinals, where they will meet Lithuania, Czech Republic or Russia. It will be decided today. On the other side, Poland ended as the last ranked team in Group F with poor 0-5. Emilie Gomis (180-G/F-83) top-scored in victory with 15 points. Sandrine Gruda (194-C-87) had 11 and she was the last one with double-digits in scoring. The hosts got 16 points and 9 rebounds from Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82). Elzbieta Mowlik (180-F-83, agency: Data Plus Group) netted three less.
Poland had a great beginning as they made 8-15 lead in the first ten minutes. However, France took control on them after that limiting Poland to just 4 pts in the second period (16-4). The hosts exploded after the breather again wining Q3 with impressive 15-25. It seemed at that time that Poland will take their first win at this event, but that didn't happen as France ended last ten minutes with 19-10 for the final 58-54 victory.

France: Emilie Gomis 15, Sandrine Gruda 11
Poland: Ewelina Kobryn 16+9 boards, Elzbieta Mowlik 13

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  ROMANIA - Women  


Germany U20 selection finished second at the Bourg en Bresse International Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Germany U20-Romania U20 70:55

Germany U20 selection finished second at the Bourg en Bresse International Tournament. The team won two game sand lost to Russia, who became the winner of it. In the last game Germany overcame Romania 70:55 as the latter became winless at the campaign.
Germany opened the game with 14-9 and added 17-15 in the second frame. They never looked behind after putting another two frames into successful end. In the third quarter Germany celebrated 21-5 win and added 18-16 in the last stanza.
Julia Gaudermann (166-PG-92) top-scored for the winners with 13 points, while Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92), Christina Schnorr (187-F-92) and Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) added 12 each. Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) finished the game with 13 points, while Gabriela Cursaru (169-PG-92) netted 11. Ruxandra Mitroi and Flavia Ferenczi (175-F-91) scored 6 points each, whilst Adina Stoiedin (187-C/F-91) delivered 5.

Germany U20: Julia Gaudermann 13, Sonja Greinacher 12, Christina Schnorr 12, Finja Schaake 12
Romania U20: Cristina Bigica 13, Gabriela Cursaru 11, Ruxandra Mitroi 6, Flavia Ferenczi 6, Adina Stoiedin 5



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  RUSSIA - Women  


Nigeria overcome Russia in Reze - by Eurobasket News
Nigeria U19 - Russia U19 67:57

Nigeria claimed the third overall position at Reze tournament in France. They toppled Russia in consolation final. Sarah Imovbioh delivered 19 points and 10 rebounds to pace the African side.
Nigeria ensured a strong start. They recorded a 15:8 lead after ten minutes. Nigeria led by 9 points midway through the second term but Russia denied the deficit. They capped the half on an 11:2 run to knot things up at 27. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term before Nigeria spurred ahead for a 47:43 lead at the final intermission. Nigeria opened the final term on a 15:6 run and did not look back en route to the victory. Uju Ugoka accounted for 14 points and 8 rebounds for Nigeria. Promise Amukamara dropped 10 points in the victory. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-C/F-93, agency: RIZO) responded with 17 points for Russia. Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) netted 10 points in defeat.

Nigeria U19: Sarah Imovbioh 19+10 boards, Uju Ugoka 14, Promise Amukamara 8
Russia U19: Ksenia Tikhonenko 17, Alexandra Stolyar 10


Russia U20 wins Bourg-en-Bresse 4-nation campaign - by Eurobasket News
Russia U20 wins Bourg-en-Bresse 4-nation campaign as the team won all three games. In the decisive game Russia beat France 64:60 to remain unbeaten and win the tournament. France meanwhile finished third with 1-2 record.
Germany U20 selection meanwhile finished second at the Bourg en Bresse International Tournament. The team won two game sand lost to Russia, who became the winner of it. In the last game Germany overcame Romania 70:55 as the latter became winless at the campaign.





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  SPAIN - Women  


Croatia beats Spain 75-71 in do-or-die game, goes to Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
SPAIN - CROATIA 71-75

It was the biggest surprise so far at the EuroBasket in Poland. Croatia grabbed 75-71 victory against Spain in do-or-die game for both teams. Thanks to this win Croatia ended as No.4 in Group F (2-3) and booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. Spain failed to reach the next stage as they ended as No.5 (2-3). Croatia will learn today who will be their rival in the QFinals. Sandra Mandir (175-G-77) was a key played in this fantastic victory with 24 points and 7 rebounds. Jelena Ivezic (182-F/G-84) had 15 points and 8 boards, while Luca Ivankovic (199-C-87) added 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Laia Palau (178-G-79) collected 19 points and 7 rebounds. Lucila Pascua (195-C-83) had 17 pts and 8 boards, while Elisa Aguilar (177-G-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: George Washington) added 13 pts.
The game winner is decided in the last quarter. Before that, Croatia made minimum lead 18-19 in Q1 and Spain responded with 22-19 until the halftime. Croatia was better in Q3 15-16 and teams went to the last ten minutes almost tied, 55-54. Spain jumped to 59-54 at the beginning of the last period, but than Croatia made crucial 2-14 run and later managed to keep its lead until the end.

Spain: Laia Palau 19+7 boards, Lucila Pascua 17+8 boards, Elisa Aguilar 13
Croatia: Sandra Mandir 24+7 boards, Jelena Ivezic 15+8 boards, Luca Ivankovic 12

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  SWEDEN - Women  


Sweden ease past Netherlands in Reze - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20 - Netherlands U20 83:57

Swedish U20 National Team wrapped up their Reze international tournament campaign with victory. They cruised past Netherlands to claim the fifth overall spot. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) stepped up with 24 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge.
Netherlands got to a slightly better start as they led early on. But Sweden surged in front late in the period and posted a 23:16 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at double figures in the second frame. Sweden established a 38:24 lead at halftime. The Scandinavians did not loosen the grip in the third term. They boosted their advantage to as many as 20 points with one quarter remaining. Netherlands failed to rebound in the fourth quarter and had to yield at the end. Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) nailed 20 points, while Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) added 13 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Kourtney Treffers (186-F-94) answered with 15 points for Netherlands. Zera Butter (179-G-92) had 14 points in the loss.

Sweden U20: Farhiya Abdi 24, Binta Drammeh 20, Cleopatra Forsman-Goga 13
Netherlands U20: Kourtney Treffers 15, Zera Butter 14



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  WNBA - Women  


Storm waives forward Ify Ibekwe - by Eurobasket News
The Seattle Storm announced Ify Ibekwe (6'2''-F-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Arizona) has been waived from the team Sunday.

The Seattle roster currently stands at 10 players.

Ibekwe, a 6-foot-2 forward from Arizona, was the 24th selection in the second round of the 2011 draft.

Courtesy of http://seattletimes.nwsource.com