Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/3/2011

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Men News

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ACPBL

ACPBL adds North Jersey Pros - by Gianni Pascucci
The Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League is pleased to announce that it has added the North Jersey Pros for the upcoming 2011-2012 ACPBL season.
The North Jersey Pros are owned and operated by Christian Villar (5'8''-G-84), owner of Villar Consulting, LLC. 'We are excited to be part of the ACPBL and be able to contribute to its continue success because when it comes to the ACPBL franchises, they want quality, not quantity. Anyone who has been around me or my organization knows that we are all about quality, professionalism, and providing players opportunities just as the ACPBL has done in its first year,' stated North Jersey Pros Owner/Prayer Christian Villar.
Prior to joining the Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League (ACPBL) The North Jersey Pros competed on the professional level during the 2010-2011 season in a different league.
We are extremely pleased to add a team such as the North Jersey Pros with strong character and a proven track record for meeting all obligations, stated ACPBL commissioner James R. Schutz . The best minor league teams in America are lining up to play in the ACPBL, we are the future of minor league basketball.

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ARGENTINA

LigaA Finals: Penarol jumps to 3-1 against Atenas - by Eurobasket News
LigaA Finals, Game 4: Atenas - Penarol 59-86 (1-3)

Penarol did a great job in Game Four of the LigaA Finals. They cruised past Atenas on the road 59-86 for 3-1 lead in the series. It means that Penarol needs just one more win for the title. The first chance to end the series Penarol will have at their home court on Sunday.
The game without a history. Penarol led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Atenas to just 6 points in second quarter. They outrebounded Atenas 40-20 including a 33-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. Penarol shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 54.2 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Atenas' players. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Kyle Lamonte (191-84, college: William Carey, agency: KMG Sports Management) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 7 rebounds and international forward Leonardo Gutierrez (200-78) who added 20 points and 4 assists during the contest. Lamonte is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. At the losing side the former international guard Bruno Labaque (183-77, agency: Interperformances) responded with 16 points and 5 rebounds and American forward Gregory Lewis (198-78, college: Winthrop, agency: Dream Team Management) scored 6 points and 5 rebounds. Atenas' coach Sebastian Gonzalez gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win.

Top scorers:
Atenas: B.Labaque 16+5reb+3ast, D.Gerbaudo 8, M.Lescano 7+1ast, J.Manuel Rivero 7+1reb+1ast, G.Lewis 6+5reb+1ast, J.Williams 6+6reb
Penarol: K.Lamonte 22+7reb+2ast, L.Gutierrez 20+2reb+4ast, M.Leiva 11+11reb+2ast, S.Safar 10+1reb, N.Lauria 9+4reb+2ast, F.Campazzo 6+3reb+6ast

San Martin Corrientes get Liga A - by Facundo Iatzky
San Martin Corrientes won Ciclista Junin 3-1 in the playoffs series for the second ascent to Liga A. They won 88-83 in the fourth game of the serie. San Martin, #2 seed in regular season, had lost in the finals against quilmes. Therefore, Ciclista Junin, #1 seed could not get their objective despite they have advantage in all their series. Fabian Elias Saad (190-G-83) was the top scorer of San martin, and one of the best players of the wole season.

Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game

Joseph BUNN
  Argentino
  (198-F/C-75)
  Avg: 20

1. Bunn, Argentino	20.0
2. Jackson, La Union	19.4
3. Johnson, Monte H.	16.8
4. Meyinsse, Club 9	16.6
5. Lo Grippo, Quimsa	16.5
6. Gutierrez, Obras	16.4
7. Gutierrez, Penarol	15.4
8. Taylor, Lanus	15.0
9. Galindo, Libertad	14.9
10. Salles, Monte H.	14.9

Rebounds Per Game

Ruben GARCES
  La Union
  (206-C/F-73)
  Avg: 11

1. Garces, La Union	11.0
2. Gutierrez, Obras	10.0
3. Kammerichs, Regat.	9.8
4. Battle, Libertad S.	9.1
5. Rollins, Gimnasia.	8.7
6. Williams, Atenas	8.2
7. Johnson, Monte H.	8.0
8. Kante, Olimpico LB	7.9
9. Alston, Boca Jrs	7.3
10. Leiva, Penarol	7.3

Assists Per Game

Pepe SANCHEZ
  Estudian.
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Sanchez, Estudian.	6.9
2. Martinez, Regat.	5.7
3. Labaque, Atenas	5.0
4. Salles, Monte H.	4.8
5. Ginobili, Libertad	4.1
6. Cequeira, Obras	4.0
7. Franco, Sionista	3.7
8. Treise, Quimsa	3.2
9. Victoriano, Lanus	3.0
10. Sartorelli, Argen.	2.9

Steals Per Game

Pepe SANCHEZ
  Estudian.
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Sanchez, Estudian.	3.3
2. Martinez, Regat.	2.6
3. Sciutto, Monte H.	2.6
4. Salles, Monte H.	2.5
5. Cequeira, Obras	2.4
6. Labaque, Atenas	2.4
7. Okosa, Gimnasia CR	2.3
8. Williams, Atenas	2.2
9. Lamonte, Penarol	2.2
10. Lewis, Atenas	2.2

Blocks Per Game

Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Battle, Libertad S.	1.9
2. Roe, Regatas C.	1.3
3. Johnson, Monte H.	1.3
4. Meyinsse, Club 9	1.3
5. Gutierrez, Obras	1.1
6. Kammerichs, Regat.	1.1
7. Alston, Boca Jrs	1.0
8. Williams, Atenas	0.9
9. Aguerre, Estudian.	0.8
10. Tintorelli, Quimsa	0.8

Ciclista Olimpico de La Banda add Eduardo Villares - by Eurobasket News
Ciclista Olimpico de La Banda strengthened their roster. They announced the signing of Eduardo Villares (188-G-79). The 32-year-old guard is returning to the team after one-year stint with Regatas Corrientes. Last season Eduardo Villares averaged 10.0 points, 1.8 assists and 1.1 rebounds per game in Liga Americas. In Liga A the guard notched 11.6 points, 1.7 assists and 1.4 rebounds per appearance. In 2009/10 season Eduardo Villares averaged 12.5 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game playing for Ciclista Olimpico de La Banda. Previously the guard had spells for Velez Sarsfield, Madryn, Central Enterriano, Ben Hur, Quilmes, Juventud Sionista.

Libertad Sunchales recruit Jonathan Treise - by Eurobasket News
Jonathan Treise (182-G-85) will continue his career in Libertad de Sunchales. The 26-year-old guard spent the last four seasons with Quimsa. Last season Jonathan Treise tallied 8.7 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game in Liga Sudamericana. In Liga Americas the guard posted 5.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.7 steals per appearance. In Liga A his stats read 8.6 points, 3.2 assists and 2.4 rebounds. Jonathan Treise played for Argentinean U16, U18 and U21 selections. The guard also participated at LigaA All-Star Game back in 2009.

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AUSTRALIA

NBL Commisson approves rules changes - by Eurobasket News
The National Basketball League Commission has approved a number of changes to the Rules and Regulations for the 2011/12 iiNet NBL Championship season, including scrapping the Under 24 Player clause.

Following a series of recommendations submitted by the NBL CEOs group, the NBL Commission met recently and made a number of key rule changes that will be in place for the 2011/12 iiNet NBL Championship season.

Major changes include:

Teams are no longer required to have an Under 24 Australian/New Zealand player as a member of their contracted squad of 10 to 12 players each season;
The number of Nominated Replacement Players a club must have each season has been increased from two to three, with these players now able to move in and out of a teams active roster without requiring the previous two-game minimum sit-out period for the player they replace;
A player placed on injury waiver who is not replaced by a clubs Nominated Replacement Player may not be returned to the Active Player List until twenty one days or four subsequent games (whichever is earlier) have expired from the date the waiver was granted;
The wording around the rules for the NBL Tribunal, which previously banned any comment whatsoever around cases before the Tribunal, has been adjusted to allow comment but not criticism;
Rules around the release of NBL contracted players to participate in off-season domestic competitions have been relaxed so that athletes wont require a formal clearance to play with a SEABL, ABA or State League team.
NBL General Manager of Operations Chuck Harmison said that it was important for the NBL to review and adjust the leagues rules as required in order to ensure they continued to be effective and fair.

Whilst overall we have been very happy with the conduct of the competition over the past 12 months, there have been a number of areas that have been highlighted as being in need of updating, said Harmison.

The consensus amongst our clubs is that the Under 24 rule was not the best mechanism for clubs to develop the young playing talent that is in this country. All of the NBL clubs have sophisticated development programs that help identify and develop young talent, and with the increase from two to three players that a club can nominate as replacement players (who must be on the teams development squad and therefore under 24 years of age) we are giving young players great opportunities to develop to the NBL standard.

Weve also streamlined the process for NBL players to be allowed to play with domestic teams in the off-season by not requiring a formal clearance as they previously had, which should have benefits at the local basketball level.

The 2011/12 iiNet NBL Championship season will tip-off in early October 2011.

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

Round 10 Round Up - by Eurobasket News
The Red Army keeps smiling despite a massive Hawks comeback, Bulleen slips up against the Broncos, Diamond Valley grabs a win with a new coach and Waverley remains top dog after beating the gallant Suns.
Diamond Valley put a crazy week to bed with their first win in 10 games, finally bringing a halt to a shocking losing streak that ended in a change of coach and the loss of an admired playmaker. The bunny was none other than Melbourne, who simply cannot win a trick in 2K11. Bennie Lewis found some form, but the Tigers resemble a shell of what we have come to expect from the NBL affiliate and they now own a seven game losing streak that doesn't look like ending anytime soon.
With a chance to jump back inside the top four, Bulleen put in a sloppy second quarter against Hume City and never recovered. Michael Petridis and Jamal Brown dominated for the home team, while Damon Lowery was the best for the Boomers. While it's not the end of the world for the Boomers, a huge weekend coming up against Diamond Valley and Waverley could play a big part in determining their eventual position and finals fortunes this season.
www.bigv.com.au
When you see a final score that reads 102-97 you'd be hard pressed to convince someone Eltham actually led Ringwood by 28pts at one stage, but such was the case before the Hawks flew home to scare the life out of the talented Wildcats. Leonard got the Wildcats going early with some massive bombs and Greer, Tragardh and Sturt all looked a class above, but enter former Big Brother (2007) star Thomas Haynes, warhorse Mark Whitehead, the Yankee Bomber and DC. Great comeback by Kenny's boys, but no ci-gar.
Meanwhile, the Waverley Falcons continue to soar on top after a tough win up in the forest against the gutsy Sherbrooke lads. The Suns couldn't bridge an early gap, nor could they prevent Ivan The Destroyer and Benn 10 from compiling handy double-doubles.
ROUND 10 RESULTS
Waverley 82 defeated Sherbrooke 77 Eltham 102 defeated Ringwood 97 Hume City 91 defeated Bulleen 74 D Valley 92 defeated Melbourne 75
After a change of coach and the loss of Bart Strezbonski during the week, import Brad Bridge-water led the Eagles to victory over Melbourne with 34pts at an amazing 94%, bringing smiles back to the Diamond Valley
In a classic quote at the after match, Eltham's Cameron Tragardh (209-C/F-83, college: ORU) summed up the Wildcats win against Ringwood by saying, 'We did everything to lose the game tonight, but we just ran out of time.'
Courtesy of: www.bigv.com.au

Standings - ABA

ABA Standings

Big V
1. Waverley F.		9-2
2. Eltham W.		8-3
3. Sherbrooke S.		7-5
4. Ringwood H.		7-5
5. Bulleen B.		6-5
6. Hume City		5-7
7. Melbourne		3-10
8. Diamond V.E.		2-10
Central ABL
1. Norwood F.		7-1
2. W.Adelaide B.		7-1
3. Forestville E.		6-2
4. Woodville W.		4-4
5. N.Adelaide R.		4-4
6. S.Adelaide P.		3-5
7. Eastern M.		3-5
8. Sturt S.		3-5
9. South.Tigers		2-6
10. C.District L.		1-7
QBL
1. Gold Coast R.		5-0
2. Northside W.		5-1
3. Brisbane C.		4-1
4. Townsville H.		4-1
5. Ipswich F.		3-2
6. Cairns M.		3-3
7. Caboolture S.		2-2
8. Mackay M.		2-2
9. Rockhampton		2-3
10. Bundaberg B.		1-3
11. Gladstone P.		1-3
12. Toowoomba		1-3
13. Maroochydore		0-4
14. SW Metro P.		0-5
SEABL-East
1. Bendigo B.		9-1
2. Knox R.		8-4
3. Dandenong		6-4
4. Canberra G.		5-5
5. Ballarat M.		5-5
6. Kilsyth C.		5-6
7. Brisbane S.		4-6
SEABL-South
1. Nunawading S.		8-4
2. Geelong S.		6-4
3. Sandringham S.		6-4
4. Frankston B.		4-5
5. NW Tasmania		4-7
6. Mt Gambier		4-7
7. Hobart C.		4-8
8. Albury W.B.		1-9
WARATAH
1. Sydney C.		10-2
2. Newcastle H.		9-3
3. Hills H.		8-3
4. Parramatta W.		7-3
5. Norths Bears		7-5
6. Sutherland S.		6-5
7. Manly Warr.		6-6
8. Maitland M.		6-7
9. Illawarra H.		5-5
10. Hornsby S.		5-7
11. Bankstown B.		4-8
12. Cent.Coast C.		2-11
13. Canberra N.		1-11

Crocs get their man - Luke Schenscher - for 2011/12 - by Eurobasket News
The Crocodiles got their man on Saturday - a man on the cusp of being unleashed as the dominant force of the NBL.

Following drawn-out negotiations, Townsville revealed they had re-signed centre Luke Schenscher (216-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) for 2011/12. The news was met with overwhelming joy from Crocs skipper Russell Hinder, who instantly declared the 216cm former NBA player would stamp himself as the league's Most Valuable Player next season.

'This is massive - I thought we'd lose him - I thought we'd be a victim of our own success where we had pushed his value so high that we were going to lose him to someone else, so I'm extremely happy,' the forward said.

'I don't know what he's getting paid but it's worth every penny, I'm sure of it.'

Just how lucrative the deal is something the Crocodiles were keeping close to their chest, but Schenscher's re-signing - which includes an option to remain in Townsville in 2012/13 - is without question a major coup.

Adelaide were among a series of rivals scrapping for his services after arguably the best NBL season of his career where he averaged 13.7 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists on his way to sweeping to Crocs MVP honours.

But Hinder said the best was yet to come from the 28-year-old Schenscher, who is in the United States on holiday.

'Every single person who has ever come to the Crocodiles has struggled in their first year ... so I just think all our combinations will be so much better and I think Luke will take another step next year,' he said.

Asked if Schenscher's stand-out maiden campaign with the Crocs could be termed as struggling, Hinder replied: 'I hope so.

'Because if that's true, he's going to be unbelievable ... this year I would look to him to have a league MVP-type season, not just a Crocs MVP-type season - I just think he's that good.'

Townsville chief executive Ian Smythe, who was fighting South Australian Schenscher's family pull to Adelaide as well a marked increase in his league value, said finalising the deal was a big relief.

'What he saw in Townsville last year he liked, he's got a strong regard for our program,' he said.

'So as long as we were able to match the components of the contract, in the end, I think we were his preferred side.'

Townsville now have the two men they prized more than anyone else in Schenscher and Peter Crawford, laying a foundation solid enough that they once again believe they can take that elusive last step and win the title.

They take the Crocs' roster to six, including four starters.

Smythe said he would now take a deep breath before finalising the squad, with half an eye on completion by mid July.

' (Schenscher's signing) really takes the pressure off the team and allows us to take our time and look at what's out there, not just for this year, but for the future,' he said. 'We're not wanting in any position and that's a nice place to be.'

The Townsville Bulletin is also a beneficiary his return, with Schenscher to write exclusively for us next season.

Courtesy of www.townsvillebulletin.com.au

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BELGIUM

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Stefon JACKSON
  Verviers.
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 16.3

1. Jackson, Verviers.	16.3
2. Black, Antwerp	16.0
3. Mallet, Charleroi	15.9
4. Freeman, Verviers.	15.9
5. Lojeski, Oostende	15.3
6. Waters, Verviers.	15.0
7. Miller, Leuven	14.7
8. Taylor, M.Hainaut	14.7
9. Copeland, Aalstar	14.6
10. Hilliard, Aalstar	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

Rashaun FREEMAN
  Verviers.
  (206-C/F-84)
  Avg: 8

1. Freeman, Verviers.	8.0
2. Young, Aalstar	7.7
3. Stipanovic, Liege	7.4
4. Hilliard, Aalstar	7.3
5. Randle, Gent	7.3
6. Brown, Antwerp	6.4
7. Gay, Verviers-Pep.	6.4
8. Jackson, Verviers.	6.3
9. Tofi, Leuven	6.0
10. Copeland, Aalstar	5.7

Assists Per Game

Darrel MITCHELL
  Oostende
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 4

1. Mitchell, Oostende	4.0
2. Hatten, M.Hainaut	3.6
3. Dagunduro, Leuven	3.6
4. Waters, Verviers.	3.4
5. Black, Antwerp	2.9
6. Bosco, Gent	2.9
7. Moors, Antwerp	2.8
8. Burrell, Aalstar	2.7
9. Miller, Leuven	2.5
10. Jenkins, Liege	2.5

Steals Per Game

Michael JENKINS
  Liege
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Jenkins, Liege	2.8
2. Hatten, M.Hainaut	2.3
3. Wilson, Antwerp	2.2
4. Mallet, Charleroi	2.2
5. Dagunduro, Leuven	2.1
6. Mitchell, Oostende	1.7
7. Biggs, Antwerp	1.7
8. McCauley, M.Hai.	1.6
9. Taylor, M.Hainaut	1.6
10. Wright, Charleroi	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Mejri, Antwerp	1.6
2. Riddick, Charleroi	1.5
3. Young, Aalstar	0.9
4. Johnson, Aalstar	0.9
5. Randle, Gent	0.8
6. Van Den Spie., Oos.	0.7
7. Tofi, Leuven	0.6
8. Wilson, Antwerp	0.6
9. Nivins, M.Hainaut	0.5
10. Pelle, Oostende	0.5

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BOSNIA

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

Boris LALOVIC
  Hercegovac
  (206-C-81)
  Avg: 19.9

1. Lalovic, Hercegovac	19.9
2. Albijanic, Sloboda	17.4
3. Opacak, Celik	17.0
4. Kahrimanovic, Kak.	16.9
5. Rahimic, Bosna	16.8
6. Sakic, Zrinjski HT	16.7
7. Kahrimanovic, Zrin.	16.6
8. Komatina, Mladost	16.6
9. Gajovic, Hercegovac	16.3
10. Stanic, Slavija	16.2

Rebounds Per Game

Andrija PEJOVIC
  Hercegovac
  (205-C-83)
  Avg: 8

1. Pejovic, Hercegovac	8.0
2. Harvey, Igokea	7.8
3. Sakic, Zrinjski HT	7.6
4. Kuzmic, Celik	7.3
5. Hajric, Zrinjski HT	7.2
6. Jagodic Kuri., Bor.	6.9
7. Albijanic, Sloboda	6.4
8. Markovic, Varda HE	6.4
9. Vukovic, Slavija	6.2
10. Lalovic, Hercegov.	6.2

Assists Per Game

Vladimir RADOVANOVIC
  Herce.
  (194-G-81)
  Avg: 6.1

1. Radovanovic, Herce.	6.1
2. Bocka, Mladost	5.4
3. Pasalic, Bosna	4.7
4. Morovic, Siroki TT	4.0
5. Boljkovac, Slavija	3.6
6. Markovic, Varda HE	3.5
7. Zdravkovic, Caplji.	3.5
8. Stanic, Slavija	3.4
9. Kastratovic, Slobo.	3.2
10. Bijelica, Capljina	3.2

Steals Per Game

Srdjan STANIC
  Slavija
  (186-G-84)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Stanic, Slavija	3.5
2. Radovanovic, Herce.	2.4
3. Gajovic, Hercegovac	2.3
4. Savovic, Slavija	2.1
5. Stemberger, Siroki	1.9
6. Vranjes, Borac N.	1.9
7. Bijelica, Capljina	1.8
8. Lalovic, Hercegovac	1.7
9. Komatina, Mladost	1.7
10. Joksimovic, Igok.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Ognjen KUZMIC
  Celik
  (215-C-90)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Kuzmic, Celik	1.8
2. Zimic, Bosna	1.6
3. Harvey, Igokea	0.8
4. Jocovic, Borac N.	0.8
5. Pelkic, SL IAT L.	0.7
6. Duranovic, Mladost	0.7
7. Brkic, Capljina	0.7
8. Pejovic, Hercegovac	0.7
9. Durasovic, SL IAT	0.7
10. Albijanic, Sloboda	0.7

Eurobasket.com All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League 1st Team 2011

Grgat

Stemberger

Chase

Sakic

Komatina

Player of the Year: Ivan Grgat (210-C/F-74) of Siroki TT
Guard of the Year: Brian Chase (178-G-81) of Igokea
Forward of the Year: Zeljko Sakic (203-F-88) of Siroki TT
Center of the Year: Ivan Grgat (210-C/F-74) of Siroki TT
Defensive Player of the Year: Vladimir Radovanovic (194-G-81) of Radnik B.
Domestic Player of the Year: Vladimir Radovanovic (194-G-81) of Radnik B.
Import Player of the Year: Brian Chase (178-G-81) of Igokea
Bosman of the Year: Ivan Grgat (210-C/F-74) of Siroki TT
Coach of the Year: Ivan Velic of Siroki TT

1st Team
G: Sinisa Stemberger (195-79) of Siroki TT
G: Brian Chase (178-81) of Igokea
F: Zeljko Sakic (203-88) of Siroki TT
C/F: Ivan Grgat (210-74) of Siroki TT
C: Milos Komatina (204-84) of Mladost

2nd Team
G: Nemanja Vranjes (188-88) of Borac Nektar
G: Vladimir Radovanovic (194-81) of Radnik B.
F/C: Ranko Velimirovic (203-72) of Mladost
G/F: Goran Gajovic (199-88) of Hercegovac
C: Boris Lalovic (206-81) of Hercegovac

Honorable Mention
Krsto Bijelica (192-G-88) of Capljina
Jovan Zdravkovic (178-G-78) of Capljina
Armend Kahrimanovic (198-F/G-80) of Zrinjski HT
Drasko Albijanic (211-C-86) of Borac Nektar
Donnell Harvey (203-C-80) of Igokea
Dzenan Rahimic (204-C/F-74) of Bosna
Muhamed Pasalic (192-G-87) of Bosna
Ivan Opacak (202-F-80) of Celik
Miroslav Markovic (201-F-75) of Varda HE
Nikola Lesko (201-F-83) of Brotnjo
Abdurahman Kahrimanovic (197-G-75) of Kakanj
Milos Savovic (200-G/F-89) of Slavija

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Muhamed Pasalic (192-87) of Bosna
G: Vladimir Radovanovic (194-81) of Radnik B.
F/G: Armend Kahrimanovic (198-80) of Zrinjski HT
F: Ivan Opacak (202-80) of Celik
C: Drasko Albijanic (211-86) of Borac Nektar

All-Imports Team * includes also Bosmans
G: Sinisa Stemberger (195-79) of Siroki TT
G: Brian Chase (178-81) of Igokea
F: Zeljko Sakic (203-88) of Siroki TT
C/F: Ivan Grgat (210-74) of Siroki TT
C: Milos Komatina (204-84) of Mladost

All-Defensive Team
Vladimir Radovanovic (194-G-81) of Radnik B.
Goran Gajovic (199-G/F-88) of Hercegovac
Zeljko Sakic (203-F-88) of Siroki TT
Donnell Harvey (203-C-80) of Igokea
Ognjen Kuzmic (215-C-90) of Celik

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

CANADA

Canada finalizes development men's roster for Universiade - by Eurobasket News
Canada Basketball, in partnership with Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) announced Wednesday the final roster for the 2011 Development Mens National Team (DMNT) that will travel to Shenzen, China and compete at the Summer Universiade from Aug. 12-23. Hosted by the International University Sports Federation (FISU), this summer's Universiade is the 26th edition of the event, which is the second largest multi-sport games in the world, next to the Olympic Games.

The roster representing Canada is made up entirely of CIS athletes as part of a partnership between Canada Basketball and the CIS.

Canada Basketball should be commended for their great support of CIS basketball, says Team Canada head coach Kevin Hanson, who was also at the helm of the red and white squad at the 2003 and 2005 Universiades.

The selected athletes had to be eligible for the 2011-12 CIS season, which means we are taking over a fairly young team but it is great to see the commitment that Canada Basketball has made to CIS and what a great opportunity this is for the athletes and coaching staff.

The team includes two former members of Canadas Junior Mens National Team (JMNT), Boris Bakovic (Toronto) and Jordan Baker (Edmonton). Bakovic was a member of the JMNT that competed in the 2007 FIBA U19 World Championship in Novi Sad, Serbia, where Canada placed 10th. Bakovic, who will play for the University of Calgary Dinos next fall, is also the only returning member from the last world university games in 2009, when Canada finished ninth in Belgrade, Serbia.

Baker, a 6-foot-7 sophomore at the University of Alberta, helped Canada to a seventh-place finish at the 2009 FIBA U19 World Championship in Auckland, New Zealand, which was Canada's highest finish since 1987 in Bormio, Italy.

The DMNT also features two members, Tyson Hinz (Ottawa) and Cole Hobin (Ashton, Ont.), from the reigning national champion Carleton University Ravens, who captured their seventh national title in the past nine seasons.

Hinz enjoyed the most successful campaign of any CIS athlete this season. The sophomore was named CIS championship MVP and CIS all-around Male Athlete of the Year.

The team has great representation from across the country as we have players and coaches from literally coast to coast, adds UBC bench boss Hayden, who guided Canada to a bronze medal in 2003 in Daegu, South Korea, and to an eighth-place finish in 2005 in Izmir, Turkey. We are excited to begin the process of building our team and we look forward to representing Canada at the FISU Games.

Canada was assigned to Pool B, where they will play Turkey, Australia, South Africa, Hong Kong and defending Universiade champion Serbia in the preliminary round. Twenty-four countries will compete for FISU gold this summer in Shenzen.

We find ourselves in a very strong pool that includes the FISU champion and always very tough Serbian team. Every game will be a tough test for our team but we are looking forward to the challenge, says Hanson.

The crowds should be very big as Serbia always has a large following at these Games and with Hong Kong located right next door to Shenzhen, that game will be packed as well. It will make for some great atmosphere. Every team in our pool has a large talent base for this age group so we will get a true flavour of international basketball.

Since basketball was included in the FISU games in 1959, Canada has enjoyed a total of eight medals, with the only gold medal coming in 1983, when the event was in Edmonton the only time the event was hosted by Canada. To go along with the gold, Canada has won three silver (1991, 1993, 1997) and four bronze (1985, 1995, 2003, 2007).

Team Canada will hold a training camp in Vancouver from Aug. 2-6 before travelling to Shenzhen to continue its preparation and play some exhibition matches from Aug. 7-12.

Below are the full rosters, coaching staff and pools for the 2011 Universiade. To follow the event and Team Canada, visit http://www.sz2011.org/Universiade and www.basketball.ca.

2011 DEVELOPMENT MENS NATIONAL TEAM ROSTER
Name Position Height University Hometown
Jordan Baker Guard 6-7 Alberta Edmonton, Alta.
Kyle Desmarais Guard 6-3 Concordia Montreal, Que.
Cole Hobin Guard 6-6 Carleton Ashton, Ont.
Jahmal Jones Guard 6-0 Ryerson Mississauga, Ont.
Warren Ward Guard 6-5 Ottawa London, Ont.
Nathan Yu Guard 6-2 UBC Prince George, B.C.
Boris Bakovic Forward 6-8 Calgary Toronto, Ont.
Kale Harrison Forward 6-5 Wilfrid Laurier Stratford, Ont.
Tyson Hinz Forward 6-6 Carleton Ottawa, Ont.
Owen Klassen Forward 6-10 Acadia Kingston, Ont.
Michael Lieffers Forward 6-8 Saskatchewan Saskatoon, Sask.
Lien Phillip Forward 6-8 Windsor Toronto, Ont.

2011 DEVELOPMEN MEN'S NATIONAL TEAM STAFF
Name Position University
Kevin Hanson Head coach UBC
John Campbell Assistant coach Dalhousie
Barnaby Craddock Assistant coach Fraser Valley
Sandy MacIntosh Team manager
Geoff Mabey Athletic therapist

2011 UNIVERSIADE POOLS:
The Universiade mens basketball tournament will run from Aug. 13-22. The detailed schedule will be announced later.
Pool A: China, Germany, Romania, Brazil, Czech Republic, United Arab Emirates
Pool B: Serbia, Turkey, CANADA, Australia, South Africa, Hong Kong
Pool C: Russia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Japan, Philippines, New Zealand
Pool D: USA, Israel, Finland, South Korea, Hungary, Mexico

Courtesy of www.basketball.ca

Jay Triano out as Toronto Raptors coach but stays on as consultant - by Eurobasket News
Jay Triano will not return as Toronto Raptors coach next season.

The Raptors announced Wednesday they will not exercise their option on Triano's contract. He will be retained as a consultant and a special assistant to president and general manager Bryan Colangelo.

'We've decided that it was time to change the voice, change the leader at the helm,' Colangelo said on a conference call Wednesday evening.

Triano, an Ontario native, guided the Raptors to a record of 87-142 in his three seasons as coach. He served as an assistant to three coaches before being named interim head coach in December 2008 following the dismissal of Sam Mitchell. The interim tag was later removed and Triano signed a three-year deal in May 2009.

Colangelo said he and Triano recently met to talk about the season and the future of the team.

'All of the factors that were discussed were weighed,' Colangelo said. 'It led to the conclusion that now was the right time to make a coaching change and we've decided to do that.'

The search for a new coach will begin immediately and there is no firm deadline in place. Colangelo did not mention names but said he'd be interested in someone with a 'defensive-minded perspective.'

'I think tenure, experience, success, rate of success, those will all be factored in,' Colangelo said.

The Raptors finished 22-60 this season, last in the Atlantic Division.

The announcement came two weeks after Colangelo agreed to a multiyear contract extension. He has spent five years at the helm of Canada's lone NBA team.

Colangelo said P.J. Carlesimo -- the only assistant coach who remains under contract for next season -- is not a candidate to replace Triano at this time.

Courtesy of ESPN

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

CROATIA

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

Hrvoje PULJKO
  Kvarner .
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 23

1. Puljko, Kvarner	23.0
2. Car, Zadar	21.7
3. Zoric, KK.	20.2
4. Zitko, Trogir	20.2
5. Bogdanovic, Cibona	20.1
6. Petkovic, Svjetlost	17.4
7. Bakovic, Darda	17.4
8. Saric, Dubrava	17.2
9. Simon, KK.	16.4
10. Brown, Zadar	15.7

Rebounds Per Game

Dario SARIC
  Dubrava
  (205-F/C-94)
  Avg: 10

1. Saric, Dubrava	10.0
2. Krolo, Darda	8.7
3. Brown, Zadar	7.4
4. Zoric, KK.	7.4
5. Radic, Alkar Sinj	7.0
6. Sobin, KK Split	6.9
7. Ivanov, Zadar	6.8
8. Grgurevic, KK Split	6.5
9. Ridl, Darda	6.5
10. Bazdaric, Cedevita	6.4

Assists Per Game

Milan KARAKAS
  Trogir
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 7.1

1. Karakas, Trogir	7.1
2. Car, Zadar	5.4
3. Petkovic, Svjetlost	5.3
4. Jugo, Kvarner 2010	4.3
5. Draper, Cedevita	4.1
6. Blajic, Alkar Sinj	3.9
7. Renfroe, KK.	3.7
8. Saric, Dubrava	3.5
9. Dosen, Dubrovnik	3.4
10. Mulaomerovic, KK	3.3

Steals Per Game

Alex RENFROE
  KK.
  (190-G-86)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Renfroe, KK.	2.5
2. Marcinkovic, Zadar	2.3
3. Saric, Dubrava	2.0
4. Car, Zadar	1.9
5. Draper, Cedevita	1.9
6. Anzulovic, Alkar S.	1.9
7. Brown, Zadar	1.8
8. Karakas, Trogir	1.8
9. Petani, Borik	1.7
10. Bicvic, Darda	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Luka ZORIC
  KK.
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Zoric, KK.	1.8
2. Kraljevic, Zabok	1.4
3. Vitali, Trogir	1.2
4. Saric, Dubrava	1.0
5. Krolo, Darda	1.0
6. Vukicevic, Svjetlo.	0.9
7. Vladovic, Trogir	0.8
8. Sobin, KK Split	0.8
9. Ridl, Darda	0.8
10. Sarlija, Borik	0.7

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

CYPRUS

Cyprus interest for Mark Dawson - by Chris Mammides
The power forward of Ilysiakos Athens Mark Dawson (206-F/C-83, agency: Tank Sports, college: Long Beach St.) a very good player is among the targets of a well known Nicosia team.

The American player is not the super star but is a decent and solid player whoc can offer his power in the paint and a number of rebounds to his team, more over he can score and defend with the same ease in both edsges of the court.

His full statistics for the season 2010-2011 were as follows: in 14 games he was scoring nearly 8 points per game, 6.6 rebounds and 0.6 steals.

Furthermore at the beggining of the season and for 28 consecutive games he was the top performer of the Lebanese team Chabab - Zahle where he was scoring 20.1 points per game 12.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists and a.6 steals per game in the 14 games played in Lebanon while prior to that and for only one officiall game he played in the Chinese team of the Cypriot Head Coach Raca Guangzhou Free Man as he scored 28 points and dashed down 20 rebounds!!

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

DENMARK

Iceland overcame Denmark at the Nordic Championship Men U18 opener - by Eurobasket News
Iceland U18-Denmark U18 80:65

Iceland overcame Denmark at the Nordic Championship Men U18 opener. The Icelandic squad started with 80:65 in Game 1 of five-nation tournament.
Iceland started with 16-13 in the opening quarter, but could not increase the lead. Denmark replied with 14-13 in the second period to trail by 2 at the halftime. Iceland meanwhile won the third quarter 25-19 and added 26-19 in the last frame.
Martin Hermannsson (180-G-94) top-scored for the winners with 22 points for the first victory. Valur Valsson (181-G-94) netted 12, while Kristofer Acox (G) posted 10. Kevin Larsen (201-F-93) responded with 22 points and 11 rebounds in the losing effort. Rasmus Glarbjerg Larsen notched 12 and Jon Carlsen (190-G/F-93) notched 9.
Denmark will face Finland next, while Iceland will take on Sweden on the second day of June.

Iceland U18: Martin Hermannsson 22, Valur Valsson 12, Kristofer Acox 10
Denmark U18: Kevin Larsen 22+11 rebs, Rasmus Glarbjerg Larsen 12, Jon Carlsen 9

Denmark rolled over Finland in Day 2 of the Nordic Championship Men U18 - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U18-Finland U18 82:58

Denmark rolled over Finland in Day 2 of the Nordic Championship Men U18. The Danish team improved to 1-1 record after 82:58 win in Solna.
Denmark went on an early lead and never looked behind after. They won the first period 21-13 and needed 23-15 for 44:28 halftime advantage. Finland bounced back with 20-14 in the third period, but the Danish team desired to win more. The latter won the last stanza 24-10 to celebrate the initial victory.
Denmark showed better percentage from the field, 58% versus 21% and from the free throw line, 80% against 62%. Finland meanwhile had a better percentage from the three-point line, 29% versus 17%.
Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) stepped up with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Mads Vahl (197-F-93) also scored 23. Soren Olsen (182-G-93) and Sami Elaraky followed them with 9 points each, while the latter also grabbed 11 rebounds. Joonas Caven (203-F-93) answered with 29 points in the losing effort as Finland llost their first game. Niko Mattila (185-G-94) posted 8, whilst Ilari Seppala (188-G-93) netted 6.

Denmark U18: Rasmus Larsen 23+11 rebs, Mads Vahl 23, Soren Olsen 9, Sami Elaraky 9+11 rebs
Finland U18: Joonas Caven 29, Niko Mattila 8, Ilari Seppala 6

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

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16

Div.C Standings

Standings

Group A
1. Andorra		0-0
2. Monaco		0-0
3. Wales		0-0
Group B
1. Gibraltar		0-0
2. Malta		0-0
3. San Marino		0-0

M-Standings - Group A

Standings

Group A
1. Czech Repub.		0-0
2. Spain		0-0
3. Greece		0-0
4. Poland		0-0
Group B
1. Germany		0-0
2. Montenegro		0-0
3. Russia		0-0
4. Serbia		0-0
Group C
1. France		0-0
2. Latvia		0-0
3. Lithuania		0-0
4. Ukraine		0-0
Group D
1. Bulgaria		0-0
2. Croatia		0-0
3. Italy		0-0
4. Turkey		0-0

M-Standings - Group B

Standings Div.B

Group A
1. Belarus		0-0
2. U.Kingdom		0-0
3. Georgia		0-0
4. Luxembourg		0-0
5. FYR Macedon.		0-0
6. Romania		0-0
Group B
1. Austria		0-0
2. Cyprus		0-0
3. Finland		0-0
4. Holland		0-0
5. Portugal		0-0
6. Slovenia		0-0
Group C
1. Armenia		0-0
2. Hungary		0-0
3. Ireland		0-0
4. Switzerland		0-0
5. Slovakia		0-0
6. Sweden		0-0
Group D
1. Belgium		0-0
2. Bosnia		0-0
3. Denmark		0-0
4. Estonia		0-0
5. Israel		0-0

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

FIBA AMERICAS

Standings

Group A
1. Brazil		0-0
2. Canada		0-0
3. Cuba		0-0
4. Dominican R.		0-0
5. Venezuela		0-0
Group B
1. Argentina		0-0
2. Panama		0-0
3. Paraguay		0-0
4. P.Rico		0-0
5. Uruguay		0-0

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

FINLAND

Denmark rolled over Finland in Day 2 of the Nordic Championship Men U18 - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U18-Finland U18 82:58

Denmark rolled over Finland in Day 2 of the Nordic Championship Men U18. The Danish team improved to 1-1 record after 82:58 win in Solna.
Denmark went on an early lead and never looked behind after. They won the first period 21-13 and needed 23-15 for 44:28 halftime advantage. Finland bounced back with 20-14 in the third period, but the Danish team desired to win more. The latter won the last stanza 24-10 to celebrate the initial victory.
Denmark showed better percentage from the field, 58% versus 21% and from the free throw line, 80% against 62%. Finland meanwhile had a better percentage from the three-point line, 29% versus 17%.
Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) stepped up with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Mads Vahl (197-F-93) also scored 23. Soren Olsen (182-G-93) and Sami Elaraky followed them with 9 points each, while the latter also grabbed 11 rebounds. Joonas Caven (203-F-93) answered with 29 points in the losing effort as Finland llost their first game. Niko Mattila (185-G-94) posted 8, whilst Ilari Seppala (188-G-93) netted 6.

Denmark U18: Rasmus Larsen 23+11 rebs, Mads Vahl 23, Soren Olsen 9, Sami Elaraky 9+11 rebs
Finland U18: Joonas Caven 29, Niko Mattila 8, Ilari Seppala 6

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

FYR MACEDONIA

Predrag Samardjiski moves from Olin Edrine to Lietuvos Rytas - by Eurobasket News
After very successful season in Turkey, Predrag Samardjiski (214-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) will continue career in Lithuania. The Macedonian big guy signed a deal with Lietuvos Rytas. He appeared 35 times with Olin Edrine in TBL averaging 12.1 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists. Samardjiski helped his team to reach the Playoff Quarterfinals, where Banvit eliminated them with 2-3. He participated at the TBL All-Star Game 2011/12.
Before Olin Edrine, Predrag Samardjiski spent five years with FMP Zeleznik. From 2002 to 2005, he played for Partizan Belgrade. Samardjiski is active member of the FYROM National Team. During the Qualifications to European Championships 2011 he had 9.6 ppg and 6.3 rpg for 7 games. He also appeared 11 times in Poland two years ago adding 3.5 ppg and 3.7 rpg.

Stats Leaders - Superleague

Points Per Game

Darko MATIC
  Kumanovo.
  (192-G-84)
  Avg: 21.5

1. Matic, Kumanovo.	21.5
2. Jovanovic, Ultima.	20.3
3. Trajkovski, Torus	18.0
4. Petkovski, Pelist.	16.8
5. Morban, Lirija	16.4
6. Filipovic, Ovce Po.	16.4
7. Mirakovski, Rabot.	15.7
8. Blazevski, Rabotni.	15.0
9. Nikolovski, MZT S.	14.7
10. Anakievski, Pelis.	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

Gjorgje JOVANOVIC
  Ultima.
  (209-C-80)
  Avg: 10.6

1. Jovanovic, Ultima.	10.6
2. Pavlovski, Lirija	8.4
3. Nikolovski, MZT S.	8.4
4. Talevski, Pelist.	8.1
5. Knezevic, Feni I.	7.8
6. Trajkovski, Torus	7.8
7. Jelesijevic, Torus	7.7
8. Chappell, ABA S.	7.7
9. Soler, Lirija	7.6
10. Simic, Rabotnicki	7.1

Assists Per Game

Carlos MORBAN
  Lirija
  (187-G-82)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Morban, Lirija	5.1
2. Kostovski, Torus S.	4.7
3. Mirakovski, Rabot.	4.6
4. Petrovski, MZT S.	3.8
5. Mladenovic, Ultima.	3.7
6. Blazevski, Rabotni.	3.6
7. Lazic, Ultimate.	3.3
8. Samardziev, Feni I.	3.1
9. Vukotic, Kumanovo.	3.1
10. Miljkovic, Torus	3.0

Steals Per Game

Gjorgi ANAKIEVSKI
  Pelist.
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Anakievski, Pelist.	2.5
2. Morban, Lirija	1.6
3. Blazevski, Rabotni.	1.5
4. Petrovski, MZT S.	1.5
5. Boswell, ABA S.	1.5
6. Lindsay, MZT S.	1.5
7. Frye, Feni Indistr.	1.5
8. Dimcevski, Torus S.	1.4
9. Stojanovski, Feni	1.4
10. Mladenovic, Ultim.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Bojan TRAJKOVSKI
  Torus S.
  (206-C/F-88)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Trajkovski, Torus	1.7
2. Chappell, ABA S.	1.4
3. Jelesijevic, Torus	1.3
4. Dendra, Rabotnicki	1.1
5. Simic, Rabotnicki	1.0
6. Gocevski, Rabotnic.	1.0
7. Krstevski, Torus S.	0.9
8. Frye, Feni Indistr.	0.8
9. Avramovski, MZT S.	0.8
10. Talevski, MZT S.	0.6

Eurobasket.com All-Macedonian League Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-Macedonian League 1st Team 2011

Knezevic

Morban

Frye

Mirakovski

Trajkovski

Player of the Year: Dusan Knezevic (207-C-80) of Feni Indistrija
Guard of the Year: Carlos Morban (187-G-82) of Lirija
Forward of the Year: Bojan Trajkovski (206-C/F-88) of Torus Skopje
Center of the Year: Dusan Knezevic (207-C-80) of Feni Indistrija
Bosman Player of the Year: Dusan Knezevic (207-C-80) of Feni Indistrija
Import Player of the Year: Jarrid Frye (194-G-85) of Feni Indistrija
Domestic Player of the Year: Dimitar Mirakovski (180-G-81) of Rabotnicki
Defensive Player of the Year: Carlos Morban (187-G-82) of Lirija
Coach of the Year: Emil Rajkovic of Feni Indistrija

1st Team
G: Carlos Morban (187-82) of Lirija
G: Jarrid Frye (194-85) of Feni Indistrija
G: Dimitar Mirakovski (180-81) of Rabotnicki
C/F: Bojan Trajkovski (206-88) of Torus Skopje
C: Dusan Knezevic (207-80) of Feni Indistrija

2nd Team
G: Darko Matic (192-84) of Kumanovo 2009
G: Vladimir Filipovic (195-85) of Rabotnicki
G/F: Mawel Soler (196-83) of Lirija
C/F: Nemanja Jelesijevic (209-79) of Torus Skopje
C: Kiril Nikolovski (210-88) of MZT Skopje

Honorable Mention
Vojdan Stojanovski (194-G-87) of Feni Indistrija
Dime Tasovski (200-F-80) of Feni Indistrija
Darko Sokolov (190-G-86) of Feni Indistrija
Jane Petrovski (181-G-87) of MZT Skopje
Pero Blazevski (200-C-72) of Rabotnicki
Toni Simic (210-C-76) of Rabotnicki
John Chappell (208-C) of ABA Strumica
Jeremiah Boswell (194-G-82) of ABA Strumica
Boban Bilbija (208-F/C-83) of Ovce Pole

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Jane Petrovski (181-87) of MZT Skopje
G: Vojdan Stojanovski (194-87) of Feni Indistrija
G: Dimitar Mirakovski (180-81) of Rabotnicki
C/F: Bojan Trajkovski (206-88) of Torus Skopje
C: Pero Blazevski (200-72) of Rabotnicki

All-Imports Team * inludes also Bosman players
G: Carlos Morban (187-82) of Lirija
G: Jarrid Frye (194-85) of Feni Indistrija
G/F: Mawel Soler (196-83) of Lirija
C/F: Nemanja Jelesijevic (209-79) of Torus Skopje
C: Dusan Knezevic (207-80) of Feni Indistrija

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

GEORGIA

Eurobasket.com All-Georgian League Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-Georgian League 1st Team 2011

Tugushi

Chikviladze

Kvimsadze

Berishvili

Matiashvili

Player of the Year: Kote Tugushi (192-G-84) of Army
Guard of the Year: Kote Tugushi (192-G-84) of Army
Forward of the Year: Mikheil Berishvili (205-F-87) of TSU Tbilisi
Center of the Year: Richard Matiashvili (209-C-89) of TSU Tbilisi
Domestic Player of the Year: Kote Tugushi (192-G-84) of Army
Import Player of the Year: Richard Damus (198-F-83) of Sokhumi
Defensive Player of the Year: Vasili Beruashvili (198-F-90) of GTU Tbilisi
Coach of the Year: Levan Moseshvili of Army

1st Team
G: Kote Tugushi (192-84) of Army
G: Beqa Chikviladze (195-91) of GTU Tbilisi
G: Buba Kvimsadze (195-82) of Kutaisi
F: Mikheil Berishvili (205-87) of TSU Tbilisi
C: Richard Matiashvili (209-89) of TSU Tbilisi

2nd Team
G: Giorgi Gaprindashvili (190-88) of TSU Tbilisi
G: Lasha Parghalava (191-87) of Sokhumi
F: Richard Damus (198-83) of Sokhumi
F: Zviad Babiashvili (199-78) of Army
C: Giorgi Sharabidze (210-90) of Army

Honorable Mention
Mikheil Panchulidze (192-F-83) of TSU Tbilisi
Giorgi Barbakadze (203-F-91) of Kutaisi
Besik Lezhava (193-G-86) of MIA Tbilisi
Davit Imnadze (208-C-85) of MIA Tbilisi
Eugene Harris (188-G-86) of Sokhumi
Vasili Beruashvili (198-F-90) of GTU Tbilisi
Samuel Lamu (204-C-81) of Energy Rustavi
Lasha Keshelava (200-F-81) of Batumi
Irakli Alkhanaidze (202-F-92) of Dinamo Tbilisi

All-Defensive Team
Lasha Parghalava (191-G-87) of Sokhumi
Mikheil Panchulidze (192-F-83) of TSU Tbilisi
Vasili Beruashvili (198-F-90) of GTU Tbilisi
Richard Damus (198-F-83) of Sokhumi
Samuel Lamu (204-C-81) of Energy Rustavi

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

GERMANY

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga

Points Per Game

DaShaun WOOD
  Dt.
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 19

1. Wood, Dt.	19.0
2. Rice, Art.Dragons	17.2
3. Bell, Phoenix Hagen	16.5
4. Harris, EnBW L.	16.0
5. Ross, MBC	15.9
6. Martin, Bremerha.	15.4
7. Dorris, Phoenix	15.3
8. Benzing, Ratio.	15.1
9. Callahan, Bremerha.	14.8
10. Bryant, Ratiopharm	14.6

Rebounds Per Game

John BRYANT
  Ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 10.9

1. Bryant, Ratiopharm	10.9
2. Ensminger, Teleko.	8.1
3. Reiner, Bayreuth	7.8
4. Watts, Walter T.	7.6
5. Martin, Bremerha.	7.1
6. Burtschi, Phoenix	6.9
7. Anderson, Goett.	6.9
8. Stevic, EWE B.	6.8
9. Pleiss, Brose B.	6.7
10. Ovcina, LTi 46ers	6.6

Assists Per Game

Branislav RATKOVICA
  Walter T.
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Ratkovica, Walter	7.4
2. Wood, Dt.	5.9
3. Joyce, TBB Trier	5.5
4. Rice, Art.Dragons	5.1
5. Brewer, Bremerha.	4.7
6. Green, EnBW L.	4.6
7. Hamilton, NY Phant.	4.3
8. Jordan, MBC	4.3
9. Goldsberry, Brose	4.1
10. Copeland, Bremerh.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Kevin HAMILTON
  NY Phant.
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Hamilton, NY Phant.	1.9
2. Everett, Bremerha.	1.8
3. Martin, Bremerha.	1.7
4. Ross, MBC	1.5
5. Burtschi, Phoenix	1.5
6. Pryor, Phoenix	1.5
7. Bailey, Goettingen	1.5
8. Lukauskis, EWE B.	1.4
9. Wise, Telekom	1.4
10. Bailey, Art.Drago.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Ekene IBEKWE
  Art.Drag.
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Ibekwe, Art.Drag.	2.4
2. Pleiss, Brose B.	1.7
3. Bryant, Ratiopharm	1.5
4. Ibekwe, Bayreuth	1.4
5. Seward, Phoenix	1.1
6. Hines, Brose B.	1.1
7. Brempong, Duesseld.	1.1
8. Goree, NY Phantoms	1.0
9. Boumtje, Art.Drag.	1.0
10. Kashirov, Walter	0.9

ALBA and Brose Baskets advanced to the Big Final - by Eurobasket News
ALBA and Brose Baskets advanced to the Big Final beating their opponents 3-2 in the semis.

Brose Baskets - Art.Dragons 83-55

The game without a history. Brose Baskets led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Brose Baskets forced 19 Artland Dragons turnovers. The best player for the winners was Serbian forward Predrag Suput (200-77, agency: Beo Basket) who scored 17 points, 5 assists and 5 steals. American swingman Casey Jacobsen (198-81, college: Stanford) chipped in 15 points. Four Brose Baskets players scored in double figures. Brose Baskets' coach Chris Fleming felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Tyrese Rice (185-87, college: Boston Coll., agency: Priority Sports) produced 13 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists and American-Jamaican guard Bryan Bailey (185-80, college: Bucknell, agency: Lanshire Group) added 9 points respectively for the guests.
Top scorers:
Art.Dragons: T.Rice 13+6reb+9ast, B.Bailey 9+4reb+1ast, R.Kurz 7+5reb, A.Hess 6+4reb, R.Boumtje 6+5reb, L.Niebuhr 5
Brose Baskets: P.Suput 17+2reb+5ast, C.Jacobsen 15+3reb+1ast, B.Roberts 15+3reb+1ast, T.Pleiss 10+8reb+1ast, A.Gavel 8+4reb+3ast, K.Tadda 6+3reb+1ast

Dt.Bank SKY - ALBA 68-87

The game was mostly controlled by ALBA Berlin. Deutsche Bank Skyliners was better in second period 23-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for ALBA Berlin especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.1 percentage. International forward Yassin Idbihi (208-83, college: Buffalo) orchestrated the victory by scoring 16 points and 9 rebounds. American forward Derrick Allen (203-80, college: Mississippi, agency: Pro One Sports) contributed with 15 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Four ALBA Berlin players scored in double figures. ALBA Berlin's coach Muli Katzurin allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Quantez Robertson (190-84, college: Auburn) answered with 20 points and 5 rebounds and the other American import guard DaShaun Wood (185-85, college: Wright St.) added 9 points and 7 assists in the effort for Deutsche Bank Skyliners.
Top scorers:
Dt.Bank SKY: Q.Robertson 20+5reb, R.Powell 14+3reb+1ast, D.Wood 9+3reb+7ast, J.McKinney 8+4reb, D.Bahiense de Mello 5+3reb, C.Moss 4+2reb
ALBA: Y.Idbihi 16+9reb+1ast, D.Allen 15+5reb+2ast, J.Jenkins 11+3reb+2ast, H.Schaffartzik 10+2reb+5ast, S.Schultze 9, B.Taylor 8+8reb+1ast

Nowitzki tears tendon in left index finger, will wear splint - by Eurobasket News
Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) tore a tendon in his left middle finger during Game 1 of the NBA finals, and likely will wear a splint to protect it the rest of the series.

Nowitzki was hurt trying to swipe the ball from Miami's Chris Bosh during the fourth quarter of Dallas' 92-84 loss in the opener Tuesday night. Instead, a foul was called on the play and when he looked at his hand, 'I couldn't straighten my finger our any more.'

Nowitzki said an X-ray showed no broken bones.

'It was just a freaky play,' Nowitzki said. 'I have to wear a splint probably for the rest of the playoffs, for a couple of weeks. But it will be all right.'

Nowitzki led Dallas with 27 points in the opener, but made only 7 of 18 shots.

Overall, the Mavericks made 37.3 per cent of their shots, worst of the post-season. So they're going to need Nowitzki to be as accurate as possible in Game 2 to keep the series from slipping away.

Nowitzki is right-handed, so he uses his left hand mostly to guide his shots. He said he doesn't expect the injury or the bandage to be much of an issue.

Neither does Heat star LeBron James.

'He's right-handed,' James said. 'It won't affect him. He's still going to be great. He's still Dirk.'

Courtesy of www.tsn.ca

Alba Berlin Takes Over The Deutsche Bank Skyliners Living Room Winning Game Five 87-68 As Pascal Roller Departs Gracefully - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Sometimes parallels can be small and unconventional, but it can still make one think the Arsenio Hall famous thought hmmmmmmmmmmm as back in 2004 the last time Frankfurt won the beko BBL title then known as The Opel Skyliners, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Lukas Podolski were about to start their flight as successful German national soccer players, Lady Gaga was still screeching songs under the shower and actress Katie Holmes still had her cute school girl crush for future husband Hollywood tycoon Tom Cruise. Current Skyliners Jimmy McKinney (192-G-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri) was making a name for himself at Missouri with guys like Travon Bryant (206-F-83, college: Missouri) Rickey Paulding and Linas Kleiza, Roger Powell was still working on his game at Illinois with future NBA players Deron Williams (191-G-84, college: Illinois) and Luther Head (191-G-82, agency: Interperformances, college: Illinois) and DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) was a road runner in the making at Wright State. Back then in 2004, Frankfurt had a 27 year old Pascal Roller (180-G-76) and raw talent coach Gordon Herbert who won the final against Bamberg in a game five series where each team won their away games until game five where Frankfurt was able to win at home. Now seven years later, Roller and Herbert were both wiser and more experienced and had the same chance to win another game five at home after the first four games had all been won on the road by the away team. Frankfurt also had a positive omen in which they had beat Alba Berlin twice in a playoff series since 2005 and wanted to make the triple against the Spree team in 2011 and despite a fresh Pascal Roller (180-G-76), Alba Berlin ruined his fathers day ending the season of The Deutsche Bank Skyliners 87-68 moving on to the final where they will meet three time beko BBl champion Brose Baskets Bamberg. The past success in 2004 didnt seem to rub off on Roller and Herbert as Frankfurt was unable to win in their living room losing the fourth game in a row this season in the Ballsporthalle. 'I think Roller and Herbert might have looked in their eyes with a small smile thinking about what they did in 2004. Remembering that success might have given them strength to do it again tonight', stressed ex North Carolina Tar Heel Ademola Okulaja (202-F-75, college: N.Carolina) before the game. 'I dont think that Roller or Herbert will have remembered this. I dont think they would have thought a second about it. It is different circumstances and you cant compare it', stressed Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak before the game. Alba Berlin won their fourth game in a row in Frankfurt and just outplayed Frankfurt in so many areas as the sadness was present on the faces of the Skyliners after the game. 'This loss hurts very much. You work a whole season to get to the final and then it ends like this. A big problem was the rebounding. We got way to little second shots and we didnt get on transition enough', stressed Skyliner forward Jimmy McKinney. 'We did a good job finding the open man on offense. Our big guys also did a good job on the boards and also finding the open man. Idbihi and Taylor gave a lot of energy under the boards', stressed Alba Berlin manager Mithat Demirel.

The game five loss by The Deutsche Bank Skyliners also was the curtain call by captain Pascal Roller (180-G-76) who had stated that he would step down from the court at the end of the season at the age of 34. When Roller came on the court with three minutes to play, the Ballsporthalle got even louder as fans stood up and started chanting Pascal Roller (180-G-76). Roller who played 122 games for the German National team in 11 seasons in Frankfurt displayed unending leadership qualities on and off the court and was instrumental for the cup win in 2000 and German championship in 2004. As the game was over and the Whitney Houston classic song 'One moment in time' was played, even the most hard core Skyliner fans were unable to hold back a few tears. Roller hugged all his teammates including getting a gigantic hug from ex German national player Ademola Okulaja (202-F-75, college: N.Carolina) who picked him up from the ground as he finished the game with four points in 12 minutes. After the game hearing the comments by his teammates were amazing, but at the same token not surprising the way Pascal Roller (180-G-76) has been as a player and person in the Skyliner family. 'Pascal was a great leader. I dont have one negative thing to say about him. He accepted his role with a lot of class when I came on board. Even when he wasnt playing, he was the leader. He was always positive, never quit and I have never seen a guy like him in my basketball career', stressed 2011 beko BBL MVP DaShaun Wood. 'Pascal has been a good teammate and a good person on and off the court. I really enjoyed playing with him', stressed Skyliner guard Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn). 'The end was very emotional. Pascal had a great career and was a great player. I played many years with him and enjoyed it', commented Skyliner guard Jimmy McKinney.

Before the jump ball, the Ballsporthalle was about as loud as it ever has been as everybody was ready for a tight and exciting game which turned out differently, but the atmosphere proved to be very playoff basketball worthy. Ex Skyliner Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) was as focused as ever and Sky girl was back again getting into the mood running around the court with a Skyliner flag. Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak had stressed before the game that the team that got into the game quicker and who had the most balls would have the best chances to win. Both points proved to fair better for Alba Berlin throughout the course of the game. Alba Berlin got going fast taking a quick 6-2 lead. Alba Berlin quickly wanted to establish their advantage down low as Miroslav Raduljica scored inside twice making it look as easy as Lionel Messi sometimes does on the soccer pitch. Frankfurt also tried to establish an inside game as Chris Moss (204-F-80, college: W.Virginia) scored back to back dunks as he was set up nicely by Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn) and DaShaun Wood. However it seemed like the Alba Berlin motor was fresh and running smooth in second gear and quickly went to fourth gear as they continued to hit shots as 2006 beko BBL champion with Rhein Energie Cologne Immanuel Mcelroy scored two three pointers, Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) scored with ease inside and Yassin Idbihi nailed a jumper as Alba Berlin led 16-5. Those two quick Mcelroy three pointers seemed like a bad omen, because Mcelory had done the same earlier in the series in Frankfurt. Frankfurt was giving up too many easy points and slow on help defense while Alba Berlin was shooting well and just concentrating on finding the open man. Alba Berlin continued to keep the big lead Taylor Rochestie dropped a three pointer and got to the free throw line as Alba Berlin led 21-10. Idbhi and Roller traded the last two baskets of the first quarter as Alba Berlin led comfortably 26-13. 'We started well finding the open man on offense. Miro Raduljica had a good start and we did good job not getting to hectic and losing our heads, but staying calm', said ex German national player Mithat Demirel. Alba Berlin was shooting 75% from the field and 100% from outside while The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 38% from the field and 0% form outside. Alba Berlin had the 9-5 rebound edge and both teams had two turnovers.

In the second quarter, it was Alba Berlin and not The Deutsche Bank Skyliners with the better start. Alba Berlin jumped out on a 5-0 run to lead 31-13 as the club continued to do a great job moving the ball around and with extra passes finding the best open man. Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) scored on the baseline with an easy lay up and Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) dropped a three pointer. Roger Powell saw some daylight doing the dirty work inside and getting a put back and then nailed a three pointer as Frankfurt trailed 33-19. Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) then got going scoring inside and making a jumper. Alba Berlin continued to hit some difficult shots as Frankfurt also countered back with a Jimmy McKinney jumper and might have been able to cut the lead down more had they just been more consistent on defense with producing stops. A late Dominik Bahiense de Mello (190-G-85, agency: Pro One Sports) jumper cut the Alba Berlin lead to 43-36. Ex Telekom Baskets Bonn American Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) ended the second quarter with two free throws as The Deutsche Bank Skyliners trailed 45-36 at halftime. 'We lost some concentration in the second quarter, but I feel our strong rebounding kept the lead up. We made some bad decisions on offense and missed free throws which kept Frankfurt in the game', added Mithat Demirel. Alba Berlin was shooting 62% from the field and 67% from the three point line while The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 40% from the field and 31% from the three point line. Alba Berlin had the slim 16-15 rebound edge, but six turnovers while Frankfurt had five turnovers.

The third quarter told two tales as The Deutsche Bank Skyliners started a furious comeback at the start, but then allowed Alba Berlin to go on a big run in the latter half of the third quarter and regain their big lead again. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners clawed their way back into the game. Alba Berlin did get on the board first as Taylor made a free throw and Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) made a very tough lay in under the hoop as he seemed to be in no mans land. Frankfurt then slowly started scoring and getting stops on defense. Marius Nolte battled for an offensive rebound and made a put back. Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn) then scored on a lay in getting fed from Wood as the American came in from the wing and scored this typical play which had become as common as Dunking Kong entertaining kids each game in the Ballsporthalle. Wood then found room inside for two points and Robertson nailed a three pointer over Mcelroy as Frankfurt trailed only 50-46 and the Ballsporthalle was exploding with noise again. However basketball never can shy away from being a game of runs as Alba Berlin coach Muli Katzurin (agency: Avi Zilberman ) seemed to have the right touch inserting little used ex German national player Sven Schultze (208-C-78) as he led the team on a 15-3 run to end the third quarter 65-48 in favor for Alba Berlin. 'I got my chance and took advantage of it. I dont really think it had anything to do with me, but how the team played. We played aggressive here three times which won us the series', said Sven Schultze. Allen got Alba Berlin going in run fighting for an offensive board and put back. Then it was Idbihi that got the next offensive rebound and finished with a left handed mini hook shot. Then it was Schultze who nailed two three pointers and Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) scored inside getting an offensive rebound. All the luck seemed to go against Frankfurt as they didnt get rebounds, loose balls and missed easy lay ups. Alba Berlin simply made all the hustle plays. 'Sven Schultze brought a lot of energy and just did his job. He is such a reliable player. Despite Frankfurt changing defenses, we continued to hit shots and could play transition', added Mithat Dmirel. Alba Berlin was shooting 52% from the field and 55% from the parking lot while The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 39% from the field and 26% from the parking lot. Alba Berlin had the big 30-22 rebound edge and both teams had 10 turnovers a piece.

In the fourth quarter, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were down by 16 points and needed some kind of miraculous comeback, but instead were hit by a 14-5 Alba Berlin run to start the fourth quarter as the 8 time beko BBL team extended their lead to 79-53 and were slowly thinking about their next opponent Bamberg as the final was getting more and more like a reality. Frankfurt started ok going on a 5-3 run as Jimmy McKinney hit a floater and Powell a runner, but it was Sven Schultze again showing his coolness from outside keeping his stroke as Alba Berlin still led 68-53. However Alba Berlin then went on a back breaking 11-0 run as Idbihi scored twice, Heiko Schaffartzik hit one of his typical bombs from outside that had been normal during the 2009 European championships in Poland and Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) hit a tough fade away jumper with one second remaining on the shot clock. Alba Berlin led 79-53 as they had showed that despite the loud Ballsporthalle, it was more their living room then that of The Deutsche Bank Skyliners. Frankfurt seemed hand cuffed by the run as time was running down and the season seemed in jeopardy. 'Alba Berlin played a box and one in the second half. We had many open shots, but we missed so many. That tends to hurt the defense. You can only make so many stops. You also have to make some shots', stressed Detroit native DaShaun Wood. Frankfurt did close out the game with a 14-8 run, but they simply did too little for 40 minutes to be able to keep par with Alba Berlin. Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn) scored eight points in this run while Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) kept the pressure on scoring six points, two on lay ups and one on a thunderous dunk from the wing. After 40 minutes, Alba Berlin left the court with a well deserved win. 'We ran out of gas. We missed many easy shots and free throws. It was a long season. We had to win two games in Berlin which cost us a lot of energy', warned DaShaun Wood. 'We defended well and rebounded well. We also were able to slow down their two key players DaShaun Wood and Roger Powell making them work for everything', stressed Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports).

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were led by Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn) with 20 points and five rebounds. Roger Powell added 14 points and three rebounds. DaShaun Wood chipped in with nine points, three rebounds and seven assists. Alba Berlin was led by Yassin Idbihi with 16 points and nine rebounds. Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) had 15 points and five rebounds. Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) contributed 11 points and Heiko Schaffartzik 10 points and five assists. Ex Skyliner Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) will go to his second straight final as his ex teammates will have to watch at home and cross their fingers for his first ring. 'I am not happy for D.A that he is going to the final, but happy for his success. I am a competitor and would rather be there', added St Louis native Jimmy McKinney. 'I am happy that D.A has the chance to win it. I hope that he will it', expressed Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn). Alba Berlin shot 54% from the field and 57% from outside and out rebounded Frankfurt 37-27, which made it very difficult to beat an experienced and well coached team like Frankfurt. It was a great run for The Deutsche Bank Skyliners who will be called Fraport Skyliners next season as nobody except maybe manager Gunnar Wobke would have thought before the season that the club would be so close to reaching the beko BBL final. 'We have been through so much this season with contract issues, the sponsor, injuries and the AJ Moye accident. We fought the whole season and by reaching the semi finals, we should all end the season with a smile on our faces', warned DaShaun Wood.

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

IBL

IBL's Edmonton Energy beat the Portland Chinooks in game 1 of 3 game series - by Trask Frost
Edmonton beats Portland in IBL basketball 133-102 after a nip and tuck three quarters. Portlands Mac Hopson scored 43 points to keep the game close for 3 quarters but the Edmonton Energy's depth ultimately finished off the Portland Chinooks 133 to 102. Curtis Nash led the Energy with 28 points. These two teams rematch tomorrow night Friday night U of Alberta 7:30pm. For more information on the IBL, visit www.iblhoopsonline.com

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

ICELAND

ISRAEL

Maccabi and Blu Reach Crossroads, P.J. Tucker Possible Recruit - by David Pick
After re-signing star point guard Jeremy Pargo, and the somewhat surprising notice by Chuck Eidson, who turned down a $1.2 million offer, Maccabi Tel Aviv is having trouble keeping the core players that brought them this year's outstanding success.

'Eurobasket.com' recently learned that, Maccabi and Small Forward David Blu, have seemed to reach a crossroad as their ongoing negotiations of contract terms that began in March, have not produced any results thus far. The American/Israeli talent has already received a number of top Euroleague team offers for next season, and is determined to finish his free agent saga in the next few days.

Head Coach David Blatt told the Israeli media that his team should prepare for an NBA season as Maccabi will participate in three different leagues and will have up to 15 players on their roster. Despite what is expected to be an exhausting season, Blu expressed his appreciation towards the Israeli power house organization saying he would like to return to Maccabi for his sixth season, however, due to contract margins, the player has not yet decided what his next move will be.

Blu, who was recently awarded the 'Eurobasket.com' sixth man of the year, has been a solid player throughout the season for Coach Blatt, as he stepped up to the plate several times. The underrated Blu was named the Israeli Final Four MVP as he played the final game against Hapoel Galil/Gilboa as a starter, scoring 19 points (5/8 from deep), proving that he is also capable of playing in the starting five.

Maccabi Interested in P.J. Tucker

On the same topic, 'Eurobasket.com' was told today by an anonymous source that the yellow-and-blue team is looking into acquiring American forward, P.J. Tucker, for next season. Tucker, a 2007-08 Israeli champion, is highly respected and considered a valuable player in Israeli basketball circles.

Sources close to Tucker confirmed the information earlier today, adding that the forward is now in Minnesota working out with the Timberwolves. Tucker began this past season in Greece playing for Aris Thessaloniki, under Israeli head coach Sharon Drucker.

Tucker left Greece after 19 domestic games due to the team's financial crisis, recording averages of 11.5ppg and 7.1rpg in a local league and 15.9ppg 8rpg in the Eurocup competition. Tucker and Coach Drucker continued their professional relationship as the two signed with Italy's Fabi Shoes, where Tucker posted 12.3 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists over the course of three games.

Dwayne Mitchell Waives Offers from Euroleague Teams - by David Pick
Dwayne Mitchell's last few years as a professional player could be compared to a roller coaster ride. The New Orleans native, who was reported 'cut' by Hapoel Holon last season, is now playing the best basketball of his career, as he led Israeli club, Maccabi Rishon, to the local Final-Four.

Unfortunately for the Israeli fans, Mitchell will not continue wearing the orange Rishon uniform next season as the combo guard received numerous job offers including one from Belgium champion, Charleroi, who plays in the Euroleague. Yet, Mitchell's personal expectation of next season is to play for one of Europe's top organizations. As 'Eurobasket.com' understood, Israeli champion, Maccabi Tel Aviv, is following the talent for quite a while now. 'Eurobasket.com' also revealed today that Mitchell's representatives are currently under contract discussions with Spanish ACB power house, Unicaja Malaga, also playing in the Euroleague competition next season.

Mitchell's personal confidants confirmed the information received by 'Eurobasket.com', adding that, despite the complementing offers, the American combo guard will not sign any contract just yet.

The American standout was recently named a member of the Israeli league's All First Team, All Import Team and awarded 'Eurobasket.com' MVP of the Year honor, leading his organization to the Israeli BSL Final-Four. In Rishon's Final-Four semi finals loss to Maccabi, Mitchell recorded an impressive double-double scoring 16 points on 7/11 shooting from the field, and crashing the boards grabbing 13 rebounds. Dwayne finished the 2010-11 Israel BSL season posting averages of 15.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4 assists and 2.6 steals per game.

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

ITALY

SerieA Round 2 of Semi-Finals. Second wins for Siena and Cantu - by Eurobasket News
Bennet Cantu - Armani MI 70-64

Bennet Cantu celebrated the second straight win over Armani Jeans. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Armani Milano won third quarter 16-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bennet Cantu made 17-of-19 free shots (89.5 percent) during the game. American forward Maarten Leunen (206-85, college: Oregon) scored 12 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import guard Mike Green (185-85, college: Butler) chipped in 7 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Four Bennet Cantu players scored in double figures. American guard Lynn Greer (186-79, college: Temple) responded with 15 points and 7 assists and the former international forward Mason Rocca (204-77, college: Princeton) scored 12 points and 7 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Bennet Cantu: N.Mazzarino 13+1reb+2ast, M.Leunen 12+6reb+4ast, M.Scekic 11+5reb+1ast, V.Micov 11+5reb+1ast, M.Green 7+6reb+4ast, M.Markoishvili 7+4reb+2ast
Armani MI: L.Greer 15+2reb+7ast, M.Rocca 12+7reb, B.Eze 8+1reb+1ast, M.Mordente 7+3reb, C.Karl 6+4reb+1ast, D.Hawkins 6+1reb+2ast

Montepaschi - Benetton TV 94-63

Montepaschi Siena left no chance for Benetton Treviso in the second game of the series. The game without a history. Montepaschi Siena led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 20-of-26 charity shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Montepaschi Siena forced 27 Benetton Treviso turnovers. They shot the lights out from three nailing 12 long-distance shots on high 60.0 percentage. Benetton Treviso was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Lithuanian guard Rimantas Kaukenas (193-77, college: Seton Hall) notched 17 points to lead the effort and American forward David Moss (196-83, college: Indiana St., agency: SportsTalent) supported him with 10 points and 5 rebounds. Five Montepaschi Siena players scored in double figures. Even 13 points and 6 rebounds by swingman Alessandro Gentile (198-92) did not help to save the game for Benetton Treviso. American swingman Devin Smith (196-81, college: Virginia) added 11 points for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Montepaschi: R.Kaukenas 17, M.Hairston 12+2reb+1ast, S.Stonerook 10+1reb+3ast, B.Lester McCalebb 10+1reb+3ast, K.Lavrinovic 10+3reb+1ast, D.Moss 10+5reb+1ast
Benetton TV: S.Nicevic 14, A.Gentile 13+6reb+2ast, D.Smith 11+4reb+2ast, H.Peric 8+4reb+1ast, B.Skinner 8+5reb+2ast, D.Motiejunas 7+3reb

Stats Leaders - SerieA

Points Per Game

James WHITE
  Dinamo Sassari
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 20.2

1. White, Dinamo Sass.	20.2
2. Thomas, Air AV	17.5
3. Rivers, CS Bologna	17.2
4. Zoroski, Banca T.	16.0
5. Ford, Fabi Shoes	15.8
6. Hunter, Dinamo S.	14.8
7. Milic, Vanoli CR	14.8
8. Goss, Cimberio VA	14.8
9. Roberson, Enel B.	14.6
10. Dean, Air AV	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Ford, Fabi Shoes	10.4
2. Jones, Pepsi C.	8.6
3. Troutman, Air AV	8.3
4. Davis, Banca Terc.	8.2
5. Homan, CS Bologna	8.1
6. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes	8.0
7. Lang, Enel Brindisi	7.8
8. Hunter, Dinamo S.	7.8
9. Suton, Angelico BI	7.4
10. Sanikidze, CS Bo.	7.3

Assists Per Game

Marques GREEN
  Air AV
  (170-G-82)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Green, Air AV	6.8
2. Diener, Dinamo S.	4.6
3. Sosa, Angelico BI	4.5
4. Collins, Scavolin.	3.9
5. Rowland, Vanoli CR	3.8
6. Goss, Cimberio VA	3.8
7. Zoroski, Banca T.	3.8
8. Green, Bennet Can.	3.5
9. Markovic, Benetton.	3.5
10. Diener, Banca T.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Earl ROWLAND
  Vanoli CR
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Rowland, Vanoli CR	2.9
2. Stonerook, Montep.	2.8
3. Goss, Cimberio VA	2.7
4. Troutman, Air AV	2.7
5. Green, Air AV	2.7
6. Thomas, Air AV	2.5
7. Hawkins, Armani MI	2.4
8. Collins, Scavolin.	2.4
9. McCalebb, Montepa.	2.4
10. Dasic, Lottomati.	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Ford, Fabi Shoes	2.3
2. Eze, Armani MI	1.4
3. Crosariol, Lottoma.	1.3
4. Toure, Enel Brindi.	1.2
5. Szewczyk, Air AV	1.0
6. Lang, Enel Brindisi	1.0
7. Hunter, Dinamo S.	1.0
8. Polonara, Banca T.	0.9
9. Cusin, Scavolini PS	0.9
10. Homan, CS Bologna	0.8

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

LEBANON

Peter Shumers or Sam Vincent? Who will be the head coach of Lebanese National Team? - by John Khoury
The Lebanese federation already sent a contract to the EX-NBA coach Sam Vincent , but the later didn't respond yet. Due to the lack of time, PETER SHUMERS arrived to Beirut in order to sign a contract with the Lebanese federation. The 39 years old coach had one appearance in the Lebanese league last season, when he took Hoops club into the top 3. It's a matter of hours if not less, that the Lebanese National Team will finally have a head coach. But the questions remain, a federation that kept waiting for weeks to find a suitable coach, cant wait for few more hours for Sams reply? Or Coach Sam Vincent, was just a name in a list to be burned?

After Signing Coach Toni Vujanic... What's next for the Green Castle ? - by John Khoury
As we already mentioned here, Toni Vujanic signed a 3 years contract for Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut, after he failled to Achieve his goals with anibal .
It's Obvious that the green castle are the first team to prepare for next year's season, by having two abroad under try outs , Hassan Safieddine and Mustapha El Akkari .
We also knew that two or maybe three other abroads will be having try outs in the next few days.
Not to mention that, Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut already have plenty of stars under contracts , such as Elie stephan , Hussein Tawbe, Sabah khoury , rony fahed and Daniel Fares; But, accroding to our sources, among all these players, only Daniel Fares has guaranteed his place in next year's squad.
On the other hand, the club tried to re-new ghaleb reda's contract, by sending a ' SHY ' offer, that didn't match Ghaleb's hopes.
Coach Vujanic is also interested in signing one of the lebanese Power forwards, Bassem balaa, Bassel Bawji or even Charles Tabet.
To conclude , the lebanese squad for the Green Castle is still not clear , which is not the case for the imports .
Its pretty well known , that Coach vujanic relays on a local center, with an american PF , which might be the case this year too.
Marc Salyers (205-F-79, college: Samford) is the closest player to join Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut, and according to our sources, Marc already accepted the offer sent from sagesse's management.
The second american Guard, is not a stranger for the lebanese league, neither for coach Vujanic himself, Darren Keelly (195-G-78, college: Texas) Might be the second Import for sagesse in a matter of days if not hours.

Will Toni Vujanic Achieve what he failed to , with Mouttahed and anibal ... Or it is going to be another season when his aims turns into wishes ?

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

MALTA

Luxol earn spot in championship series - by Eurobasket News
Luxol entered the championship series. They toppled Athleta 93:88 to clear off in the second place in the ladder. Not Athleta and Luxol will square off in the title series tipping off on June 7. In the meantime the defending champions Siggiewi were left in the third position and out of the title race.
Athleta started the game strongly as they fired 31 points in the opening frame. They recorded an 8-point lead. But Luxol cut the deficit at 3 points at halftime 45:48. BUPA Luxol increased the tempo in the third frame. They surged ahead and rolled to a 4-point lead with one quarter left. Luxol maintained the lead throughout intense fourth quarter. They went deadly from the stripe in the dying stages and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Petar Apcev (199-F-89) came up with 29 points for Luxol. Nebojsa Vasovic accounted for 17 points in the victory. Addison Bonnici (195-F-84) replied with 15 points for Athleta. Jonathan Zammit produced 14 points in defeat.

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

MEXICO

CIBACOPA QFinals: Guaymas forces decisive Game 7 against Guasave (3-3) - by Eurobasket News
CIBACOPA QFinals, Game 6: Guasave - Guaymas 81-89 (3-3)

Guaymas grabbed 81-89 road win against Guasave last night tying the score at 3-3 in the CIBACOPA Quarterfinals. It means that two teams will meet in decisive Game 7 and the winner will advance to the Semis. Their rival will be the regular season champion Cananea. Guasave will be the hosts tonight in the seventh game.
The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 48-38 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Ostioneros de Guaymas dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Frayles de Guasave's 44. Ostioneros de Guaymas looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Frayles de Guasave's players. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) who had a double-double by scoring 28 points and 10 rebounds. Guard Richard Roby (198-85) chipped in 24 points and 6 rebounds. Four Ostioneros de Guaymas players scored in double figures. Ostioneros de Guaymas' coach Eduardo Opezzo used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Kevin Sowell (190-81) who recorded 32 points and 8 rebounds and guard William Funn (188-82, college: Portland St.) added 13 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists respectively.

Top scorers:
Guasave: K.Sowell 32+8reb+3ast, M.Strobbe 15+10reb, W.Funn 13+9reb+4ast, R.Barrett 8+1reb, A.Izaguirre 7+9reb+3ast, J.Acosta 6+1reb
Guaymas: J.Habel 28+10reb+2ast, R.Roby 24+6reb+1ast, A.Pedroza 16+5reb+4ast, J.Luis Bucio 12+2reb, H.Nungaray 5+2reb+4ast, F.Benitez 2+5reb+1ast

CIBANE 2011 STARTS TOMORROW FRIDAY - by Harold Valenzuela
This Friday 3 CIBANE league will start his second season with 2 games Madereros de Durango versus GUERREROS DE APODACA and Caktus de Saltillo versus Aguilas de Piedras Negras, this 2 games will repeat Saturday and a new team, TUZOS de ZACATECAS versus the champions Mineros de Fresnillo.

This year the teams will play 2 games a week and still have 2 american players and 2 national players and the rest of the roster has to be local player, 1 player under 21 years old has to play 5 minutes the 2 quarter.

Visit the league official website for more information WWW.CIBANE.ORG

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin SOWELL
  Guasave
  (190-G-81)
  Avg: 31.1

1. Sowell, Guasave	31.1
2. White, Cananea	28.0
3. Sowell, Culiacan	27.3
4. Gale, Mexicali	26.8
5. Brown, Tepic	24.8
6. White, Los Mochis	24.2
7. Moore, Culiacan	24.0
8. Brown, Cananea	23.5
9. Brown, Tepic	23.3
10. Gabbidon, Tijuana	23.3

Rebounds Per Game

Brandon BROWN
  Cananea
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 11

1. Brown, Cananea	11.0
2. Moss, Nogales	10.0
3. Angounou, Guasave	9.8
4. VanderMeer, Mexica.	9.6
5. Brown, Tepic	9.6
6. Broxsie, Nogales	8.7
7. Malloy, Los Mochis	8.7
8. Shipley, Tijuana	8.6
9. Thomas, Hermosillo	8.1
10. Gray, Hermosillo	8.0

Assists Per Game

William FUNN
  Guasave
  (188-G-82)
  Avg: 8.4

1. Funn, Guasave	8.4
2. Watson, Tijuana	5.7
3. White, Los Mochis	5.7
4. White, Cananea	5.4
5. Winder, Guaymas	5.2
6. Thomas, Hermosillo	4.8
7. Nungaray, Guaymas	4.4
8. Brown, Tepic	4.4
9. Monreal, Hermosillo	4.2
10. Marentes, Guaymas	4.0

Steals Per Game

Davin WHITE
  Cananea
  (186-G-81)
  Avg: 2.1

1. White, Cananea	2.1
2. Moore, Culiacan	2.1
3. Sowell, Guasave	1.7
4. Gale, Mexicali	1.7
5. Thomas, Cananea	1.7
6. Funn, Guasave	1.7
7. White, Los Mochis	1.6
8. Brown, Nogales	1.6
9. Rougeau, Culiacan	1.5
10. Brown, Cananea	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Kevin SOWELL
  Culiacan
  (190-G-81)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Sowell, Culiacan	3.2
2. Gale, Mexicali	2.6
3. Sowell, Guasave	2.4
4. Shipley, Tijuana	2.2
5. White, Los Mochis	2.2
6. Funn, Guasave	2.1
7. Wade, Hermosillo	2.1
8. Brown, Tepic	2.1
9. Thomas, Hermosillo	2.0
10. Brown, Tepic	2.0

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

MONTENEGRO

Stats Leaders

1A Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

1 Mugosa, Gorstak 21.5
2 Seferovic, Teodo 18.5
3 Zejak, ABS P. 18.4
4 Perovic, Gorstak. 17.3
5 Bijelic, Danilovgrad 16.4
6 Radulovic, Ulcinj 15.1
7 Popovic, ABS P. 14.5
8 Pejic, Gorstak 14.4
9 Mandic,Teodo 14.1
10 Jelenic, Mornar B. 13.6

Rebounds Per Game

1 Bijelic, Danilovgrad 8.4
2 Popovic, ABS P. 8.2
3 Zejak, ABS P. 8.1
4 Kadic, Mogren 8.0
5 Radulovic, Ulcinj 7.6
6 Bulajic, Teodo 7.4
7 Ljujic, Jedinstvo 7
8 Boskovic, Teodo 6.6
9 Milosev, Jedinstvo 5.1
10 Vujosevic, Mornar 5.1

Assists Per Game

1 Pejic, Gorstak 4.3
2 Martinic, Lovcen 3.7
3 Korac, Jedinstvo 3.4
4 Bulatovic, ABS P. 3.2
5 Ivanovic Mornar B. 3
6 Jelenic, Mornar B. 2.8
7 Bulatovic, Teodo 2.5
8 Stojanovic, Lovcen 2.4
9 Boricic, Lovcen 2.2
10 Jovovic, Danilovgrad 2.1

Steals Per Game

1 Martinic , Lovcen 3.7
2 Korac, Jedinstvo. 3.4
3 Bulatovic, ABS P. 3.2
4 Ivanovic, Mornar B. 3.0
5 Jelenic , Mornar B. 2.8
6 Sarajlija , Mornar 2.7
7 Radulovic , Mogren 2.3
8 Jovovic , Danilovgrad 2.1
9 Pavlicevic , Lovcen 1.4
10 Subotic , Teodo 1.3

Blocks Per Game

1 Radulovic, Ulcijn 2.1
2 Todorovic, Lovcen 1.3
3 Radovic, Mornar B. 1.2
4 Nikolic, Gorstak 1.1
5 Kadic, Mogren 1.0
6 Vujosevic, Mornar B 0.7
7 Lopicic, Lovcen 0.6
8 Ljujic, Jedinstvo 0.6
9 Zejak, ABS P. 0.5
10 Boskovic , Teodo 0.5

Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League 1st Team 2011

Dragicevic

Ivanovic

Jelenic

Simonovic

Scekic

Player of the Year: Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) of Buducnost
Guard of the Year: Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94) of Mornar Bar
Forward of the Year: Marko Simonovic (202-F-86) of Buducnost
Center of the Year: Marko Scekic (207-F-81) of Buducnost
Most Improved Player of the Year: Ivan Zejak (203-F/C-87) of ABS Primorje
Most Improved Player of the Year: Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94) of Mornar Bar
Import Player of the Year: Gintaras Kadziulis (193-G-80) of Buducnost
Defensive Player of the Year: Aleksa Popovic (201-G/F-87) of Buducnost
Coach of the Year: Dejan Radonjic of Buducnost

1st Team
G: Nikola Ivanovic (187-94) of Mornar Bar
G: Ivan Jelenic (190-85) of Mornar Bar
F: Marko Simonovic (202-86) of Buducnost
C/F: Vladimir Dragicevic (206-86) of Buducnost
F: Marko Scekic (207-81) of Buducnost

2nd Team
G: Nikola Otasevic (184-82) of Buducnost
G: Dusan Milosevic (198-91) of Ulcijn
G/F: Aleksa Popovic (201-87) of Buducnost
F/C: Ivan Zejak (203-87) of ABS Primorje
C/F: Igor Bijelic (208-87) of Danilovgrad

Honorable Mention
Aleksandar2 Radulovic (190-G-88) of Ulcijn
Nemanja Radovic (205-F/C-91) of Mornar Bar
Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91) of Buducnost
Filip Barovic (205-F-90) of Buducnost
Sead Sehovic (199-F-89) of Buducnost
Vladimir Mihailovic (193-G-90) of Buducnost
Milos Lopicic (216-C-90) of Lovcen

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Nikola Ivanovic (187-94) of Mornar Bar
F: Sead Sehovic (199-89) of Buducnost
G/F: Aleksa Popovic (201-87) of Buducnost
C/F: Vladimir Dragicevic (206-86) of Buducnost
C/F: Igor Bijelic (208-87) of Danilovgrad

All-Imports Team
G: Nikola Otasevic (184-82) of Buducnost
G: Gintaras Kadziulis (193-80) of Buducnost
F: Marko Simonovic (202-86) of Buducnost
C: Aleksandar Jevdjic (203-82) of Lovcen
F: Marko Scekic (207-81) of Buducnost

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

NBA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.Ci.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 27.9

1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	27.9
2. James, Miami Heat	26.5
3. Rose, Chicago B.	25.4
4. Wade, Miami Heat	25.3
5. Anthony, Denver N.	25.2
6. Bryant, LA Lakers	25.1
7. Stoudemire, New Y.	24.7
8. Ellis, Golde S.	24.1
9. Nowitzki, Dallas M.	24.0
10. Martin, Houston R.	23.5

Rebounds Per Game

Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.2

1. Love, Minnesota T.	15.2
2. Howard, Orlando M.	14.2
3. Griffin, LA Clipp.	12.1
4. Randolph, Memph.	12.0
5. Bogut, Milwauke.	11.1
6. Humphries, New J.	10.4
7. Noah, Chicago B.	10.3
8. Camby, Portland TB	10.2
9. Gasol, LA Lakers	9.9
10. Lee, Golde S.	9.8

Assists Per Game

Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Nash, Phoenix Suns	11.4
2. Rondo, Boston C.	11.0
3. Paul, N.Orleans H.	9.9
4. Williams, Utah Jazz	9.7
5. Felton, New Y.	9.0
6. Calderon, Toron.	8.9
7. Wall, Washington W.	8.3
8. Kidd, Dallas M.	8.0
9. Westbrook, Oklah..	7.8
10. Rose, Chicago B.	7.7

Steals Per Game

Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Paul, N.Orleans H.	2.3
2. Rondo, Boston C.	2.1
3. Ellis, Golde S.	2.1
4. Felton, New Y.	1.8
5. Allen, Memphis G.	1.8
6. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.8
7. Wall, Washington W.	1.8
8. Gay, Memphis G.	1.7
9. Conley, Memphis G.	1.7
10. Kidd, Dallas M.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Andrew BOGUT
  Milwauke.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Bogut, Milwauke.	2.6
2. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.5
3. McGee, Washingt.	2.4
4. Howard, Orlando M.	2.3
5. Milicic, Minnesota	2.0
6. Duncan, San A.	2.0
7. Stoudemire, New Y.	1.9
8. Jefferson, Utah J.	1.9
9. Bynum, LA Lakers	1.9
10. Jordan, LA Clippe.	1.8

Nowitzki tears tendon in left index finger, will wear splint - by Eurobasket News
Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) tore a tendon in his left middle finger during Game 1 of the NBA finals, and likely will wear a splint to protect it the rest of the series.

Nowitzki was hurt trying to swipe the ball from Miami's Chris Bosh during the fourth quarter of Dallas' 92-84 loss in the opener Tuesday night. Instead, a foul was called on the play and when he looked at his hand, 'I couldn't straighten my finger our any more.'

Nowitzki said an X-ray showed no broken bones.

'It was just a freaky play,' Nowitzki said. 'I have to wear a splint probably for the rest of the playoffs, for a couple of weeks. But it will be all right.'

Nowitzki led Dallas with 27 points in the opener, but made only 7 of 18 shots.

Overall, the Mavericks made 37.3 per cent of their shots, worst of the post-season. So they're going to need Nowitzki to be as accurate as possible in Game 2 to keep the series from slipping away.

Nowitzki is right-handed, so he uses his left hand mostly to guide his shots. He said he doesn't expect the injury or the bandage to be much of an issue.

Neither does Heat star LeBron James.

'He's right-handed,' James said. 'It won't affect him. He's still going to be great. He's still Dirk.'

Courtesy of www.tsn.ca

Ricky Rubio agrees to terms with Minnesota Timberwolves, source says - by Eurobasket News
Ricky Rubio (192-G-90) is coming to Minnesota after all.

The Spanish point guard has agreed to join the Timberwolves next season, ending a two-year negotiation with the team that had a few stops and starts.

A person with knowledge of the agreement confirmed to The Associated Press on Wednesday night that Rubio will play in the NBA next season. The person requested anonymity because neither Rubio nor the Timberwolves planned to make an official announcement while he continues to play for Regal Barcelona in the Euroleague playoffs.

The Timberwolves drafted Rubio fifth overall two years ago despite a buyout of his Spanish contract that topped $6 million. The enormity of the buyout caused Rubio to stay overseas rather than immediately come to the NBA, and there was talk that the precocious teenager did not want to play in Minnesota.

The current labor uncertainty complicated the negotiations. But Rubio ultimately decided he was ready to come over now.

Timberwolves spokesman Mike Cristaldi said the team was declining comment.

'As of now, we have nothing new to report,' Cristaldi said.

The news marks the successful end to a long, and often winding, daliance between the Timberwolves and Rubio. Wolves President David Kahn spent two years in a complex, delicate negotiation, not wanting to put too much pressure on the youngster yet still emphasizing how much the team was looking forward to bringing the slick-passing point guard to the United States.

Kahn called Rubio 'a virtuoso and somebody special' after drafting him in 2009. He and agent Dan Fegan came to agreement to bring Rubio over to the NBA that summer, but Rubio pulled out at the last minute after deciding he did not want to pay a buyout that topped $6 million out of his own pocket.

That led to speculation that Rubio did not want to play in cold, small-market Minnesota and was hoping to force a trade to a bigger, more desirable market. But Rubio never expressed that himself, and owner Glen Taylor said he didn't believe that to be the case.

Under current NBA rules, the Timberwolves can only contribute $500,000 to Rubio's buyout from Regal Barcelona. But by staying in Spain for another two years, Rubio's buyout has now dropped to a more manageable $1.4 million.

A person with knowledge of the negotiations said the Timberwolves have been woking with several local companies on some endorsement opportunities that would help pay that bill.

The negotiations reached a deadline of sorts on Tuesday, when Rubio needed to sign a contract in order to be put under the current rookie salary wage scale.

He was faced with a difficult decision -- sign with the Wolves and lock himself into the guaranteed money of that rookie contract while risking losing games of his first NBA season to a potential lockout, or wait to see what unfolds with the league's uncertain labor situation and spend a third season in Spain.

Waiting, however, could have cost him money in the long run if the owners are successful in their bid to gain major wage concessions from the players, or if Rubio's on-court production continued to slip like it did this season, thereby hurting his negotiating leverage.

Rubio averaged a modest 6.5 points per game on 39 percent shooting. But the Timberwolves think he will flourish in the more wide-open NBA, where guards are allowed much more freedom on the perimeter.

Rubio first burst on to the scene with a surprisingly poised and heady performance against Team USA in the Beijing Olympics, earning praise from stars including Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.

'He's a special player and a very good point guard,' Lakers forward and fellow Spainiard Pau Gasol said earlier this season. 'Very unselfish. He's got great size, great length. He knows how to play the game very well. He's got a great feel for the game. He's just a guy that will get the team going and do what he needs to do.'

The news was a much-needed jolt to a struggling franchise. The Timberwolves finished with the worst record in the league last season, and their history of bad lottery luck continued when the Cavaliers leap-frogged them for the first pick in the draft.

The team has won just 32 games in the last two years and desperately needs a capable point guard to feed the ball to Kevin Love and Michael Beasley.

With Rubio now in the mix, the first of many needs can be scratched off the list.

Courtesy of www.cleveland.com

Pau Gasol wants to play for Spain in European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Lakers forward Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) confirmed Wednesday that he plans to play for the Spanish national team in this summer's European Championship, according to the Spanish basketball federation website.

'This year, my intention is to be available for the Spanish team if the coach feels he can count on me,' Gasol said in Spanish in a report on the team's website. 'I would like to help Spain win another European Championship.'

Gasol sat out of the 2010 FIBA World Championships last summer while Spain finished in sixth place, opting for rest because of fatigue and injury concerns. He had appeared in helped Spain win the 2006 FIBA World Championship, appeared three consecutive NBA Finals series and the earned a silver medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He also broke his left index finger in the 2009 offseason while practicing with the Spanish national team and suffered strained left and right hamstrings that sidelined him for a combined 17 games with the Lakers during the 2009-2010 campaign.

Gasol, who's currently vacationing in Spain, said in his recent exit interview that he was 'leaning toward playing' in the European Championship that takes place Aug. 31 to Sept. 18 in Lithuania for several reasons. There will be an NBA lockout should the league and players union fail to reach a new collective bargaining agreement after June 30. He wants give Spain a better chance at qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics. And he hopes to rectify his poor postseason performance, where his per game average of 13.1 points on 42% shooting played a large part in the Lakers getting swept by the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference semifinals .

'It's hard for European players not to contribute to their international teams,' Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak said in his exit interview. 'It's not new to me, and I knew months ago [Gasol] was expecting to play. We have a little bit more free time than we expected. Maybe its not a bad thing.'

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

NBA, union have productive meeting - by Eurobasket News
Commissioner David Stern felt there was progress. Union executive director Billy Hunter said he is 'hopeful.'

So a month before a potential lockout, there was some reason for optimism about the NBA's labor situation.

Representatives of the league's owners and players met for about four hours Wednesday and will get together twice next week in Dallas as they try to negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement to replace the one that expires June 30.

'I'm hopeful, and we know that the pressure's building, and if anything's going to happen, it's got to happen between now and (June) 30,' Hunter said. 'And so we're really going to make every effort to see if we can reach a deal.'

Hunter previously said he was '99 percent' sure of a work stoppage, but said there was a productive exchange of ideas in Wednesday's session.

'I think we now know each other, and the question is what kind of compromise the sides are prepared to make,' Stern said. 'It may not be enough on either side, but we're going to give it a shot.'

Hunter wouldn't say if the owners showed any willingness to move off their desire for a hard salary cap, which the players have called a nonstarter. That's only one of numerous changes owners want to the league's salary structure, and the union has resisted most of them, saying the current system has largely worked.

'I guess on paper we're quite far apart. The question is whether we may be closer than we say we are, or we can get closer than we say we are,' Stern said.

The Miami Heat's hopes of a long championship reign could depend on it.

If owners were to get everything they want -- either through avoiding or after enduring a lockout -- it could come at the expense of teams like the Heat, who have significant money committed to a few top players.

A hard cap would limit their ability to fill out a roster around LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh -- or in an extreme case, even force them to trade one of their Big Three.

'That's nothing I want to focus on mentally at this time of the year,' Wade said. 'I'll have more comments on that when the season is over.'

The current salary cap system allows for certain exceptions that permit teams to exceed it, such as to re-sign their own free agents. They wouldn't have that luxury under a hard cap system, potentially forcing teams to make some difficult decisions to stay below the threshold.

The league's initial proposal called for an immediate hard cap, though its subsequent proposal backed off implementing that next season and instead phasing it in over three seasons. Though not known where the number would fall, it would be likely be well below this season's $58 million.

James, Wade and Bosh are all scheduled to earn more than $20 million in 2014-15, when the Heat would have only six players under contract at about $71 million -- though the league's proposals also call for salaries to be rolled back to conform to the requirements of a new CBA.

Stern couldn't guarantee the Heat would be able to stay together during his annual finals news conference Tuesday, saying 'that's part of the negotiation,' though later he said he hoped that would be the case.

The Heat have been good for NBA business, with their Game 1 victory over Dallas earning the highest TV ratings for a series opener since 2004. Both sides realize how damaging a work stoppage immediately after their first season would be, so players executive Keyon Dooling of the Milwaukee Bucks said the fact there was good dialogue Wednesday means 'you've got a chance.'

'But at the same time,' he said, 'we're far away and we realize that and we've got to try to find some middle ground so we can find balance.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Detroit Pistons sale to Tom Gores officially complete - by Eurobasket News
Investor Tom Gores is officially the owner of the Detroit Pistons.

The team said the sale of Palace Sports and Entertainment and the Pistons to Gores and his investment firm, Platinum Equity, was formally completed Wednesday, one day after NBA Commissioner David Stern said the league's Board of Governors had approved Gores' purchase of the franchise.

Gores takes over following a drawn-out sale by owner Karen Davidson that stretched back before the season. The team announced in April that Gores had agreed to buy the Pistons.

'I am very excited at the opportunity to lead this great franchise into the future,' Gores said in a statement Wednesday. 'The passion and commitment of Pistons fans is legendary, and our goal is to meet every one of their expectations. That starts with the hard work and values necessary to compete for championships. It also includes being a real partner in the community, and we intend to do that as well.'

Gores figures to have a busy first month in charge. The Pistons have missed the playoffs two straight seasons, and coach John Kuester's future is very much in doubt.

Karen Davidson transferred control to Gores after nearly 37 years of ownership by the Davidson family. Bill Davidson, her husband, became the club's majority owner in 1974. He died in 2009.

'Throughout this process, my goal was to find the right owner to lead Palace Sports and Entertainment into the future and I am certain that Tom Gores is that person,' Davidson said. 'He is an astute businessman, works hard and will bring a passion to this organization that same passion that Bill had for so many years.'

Gores is the chairman and CEO of Beverly Hills, Calif.-based Platinum Equity. He founded Platinum Equity in 1995, and in its 2010 list of the 400 richest people in America, Forbes put him in a tie for 153rd with a net worth of $2.4 billion. The 46-year-old Gores is a Flint native and has a degree from Michigan State University. He lives in California with his wife and three children.

'I have a tremendous amount of respect for the Davidson family and what has been built here. Palace Sports and Entertainment and the Detroit Pistons have enjoyed a great tradition of success and have been committed to being a positive influence in the community,' Gores said. 'Our mission is to continue that legacy and do it the right way.'

Terms of the sale weren't announced. Michael Layne, a spokesman for Karen Davidson, said her family is expected to retain a minority stake.

Detroit won its third NBA championship in 2004, part of a six-year streak in which the team reached at least the conference finals, but the Pistons went 27-55 in 2009-10 and 30-52 this past season. Empty seats were common at home games, and that, coupled with feuding between coaches and players, only added to a sense of gloom.

Shortly after agreeing to buy the team, Gores showed up to watch Detroit's home finale. The Pistons lost to lowly Cleveland, and forward Charlie Villanueva was ejected following a fourth-quarter scuffle.

Courtesy of www.mlive.com

Legacy assured, Los Angeles will retire Shaquille ONeals jersey - by Eurobasket News
The recently retired Shaquille O'Neal (7'2''-C-72, college: LSU) will eventually have his number retired by the Los Angeles Lakers, as promised by the team's longtime spokesman, which means there appears to be no bad blood between O'Neal and the organization that traded him to Miami back in the summer of 2004.

As first reported by ESPN's Dave McMenamin, the Lakers appear poised to raise O'Neal's number 34 into the Staples Centers rafters, while O'Neal's former championship partner and combatant Kobe Bryant watches while in Laker duds. The team essentially (and rightfully) chose Bryant over O'Neal back in 2004 as the two rowed, but all seems to be forgiven in the several years since, and Lakers spokesman John Black was quick to confirm the jersey retirement on the day of O'Neal's NBA retirement.

From an email sent to McMenamin, Black discusses the team's plans:

'We don't have any specific timetable on this, but you can be assured we will retire Shaq's jersey.

'At this point in time I'd guess there's a really good chance that Kobe will still be playing in five years, and by that time Shaq will be elected to the HOF and we will have retired his jersey.'

And though O'Neal's potency has been fading for years, it's just starting to hit home that we won't have a Shaquille O'Neal to watch play basketball for the first time since the 1991-92 season. For all manner of NBA fans, that's an increasingly strange thought.

'I suppose the nicest thing I can say about Shaquille O'Neal is that, save for the months leading up to the 2010-11 season, I was scared of the guy.'

Not his personality or stature -- O'Neal has made a point to act as the loveable big fella throughout his career -- but as a player. At every stop during his NBA career, I assumed the weight of the NBA would tilt as a result of his presence. Not as an out and out championship favorite, mind you, but something not far off. And up to and including his time struggling up and down the court with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2009-10, I assumed the man was going to make a near-championship level difference. Usually I was right.

I'm not alone in that. Ask any current or former player, and they'll tell you that O'Neal's literal stature gave opponents or teammates pause more than any other contemporary they'd ever been around. These men have been around Kareem, Wilt, Yao, Dwight Howard (notes) or even David Robinson's squared shoulders, and yet it was Shaq that drew the second look. The man just exuded bigness. And, amongst all the proper big men this league has seen, he was the one most proud of his largesse.

Often to a fault. A short jumper? That wasn't ever really added to his arsenal. Same with a lefty hook, a solid free-throw stroke, or an ability to contest well on screen and rolls. Worse, O'Neal took great delight in publicly taking down other big men whose games didn't pass O'Neal's particular sniff test. There may have been holes to Vlade Divac or Chris Bosh's (notes) game that didn't hold up to Shaq's career averages, but they hardly deserved his on-record scorn.

Things didn't stop with finesse 7-footers, either. Save for Cleveland and (at press time) Boston, O'Neal has sent passive/aggressive shots at each of his former teams. And though each of these former teams failed to win a championship in Shaq's final year with them, none of these shots were really deserved.

Orlando provided O'Neal with a stellar supporting cast, but fell short in 1995 and 1996 due mainly to the holes in O'Neal's game. Kobe Bryant may have acted a prat, and the Lakers bench was definitely lacking, but Shaq's poor conditioning was perhaps the biggest factor in Los Angeles' playoff losses in 2003 and 2004. Miami went all 'WIN NOW!' with Shaq from 2004-06, and it failed as his and Dwyane Wade's (notes) bodies failed them. Phoenix broke up a potentially championship core to align themselves with a Shaq-brand of orthodoxy, and fell short when that normality didn't deliver. In Shaq's eyes, at every spot, nothing was his fault.

Or maybe, in his eyes, everything was his fault. It might be the biggest reason behind that anger.

This was the man that was routinely criticized for failing to win, at every level besides a ringer-run 1994 World Championships, between his first year at LSU and his first NBA title in June of 2000. And even coming off that season for the ages, O'Neal had to watch as Bryant took half the credit from media types following 1999-00. This, and a lack of re-entry passes as someone takes a long jumper that doesn't go in, is what creates petulance. It's no excuse for rude words and/or showing up to camp out of shape, but you can see why O'Neal went there.

And you can see why he went wherever he went. Orlando, after a draft. Los Angeles, Miami, Phoenix, Cleveland and Boston. It's because O'Neal thought, and probably still thinks, that his sort of basketball owns above all else. And who's to say he's wrong, in a thing like that?

Not just because of the breathless odes we wrote regarding his newly established presence, at each of these stops. But because this is how basketball still works. If you have a chance at a talented player taking the highest-percentage shot available, you go to that player. At times, basketball can be stiflingly complex, and yet it still comes down to simple tenets that will (and hopefully never will) go away. If you see the big man in the lane, feed him the ball. Wash, rinse, repeat in whatever city you're paid to be in.

This is why we need people like Shaquille O'Neal around. It doesn't matter if they've scored 60 points in a game, or if they don't even top 60 inches in height. The game needs people repeating this mantra. We'll put up with all the childish posturing just as long as the singular message stays the same. This game, forever and ever amen, will always go inside-out.

So keep on, Brother O'Neal. Keep talking, Touting, Twittering and towering. You changed the game, without changing a single thing about it.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Kevin McHale makes it official, will coach Houston Rockets - by Eurobasket News
It's official: Hall of Famer Kevin McHale is headed to Houston.

Confirming numerous reports over the past couple of days, McHale said Tuesday night he has agreed to become the Rockets' next coach. The former Boston Celtics great takes over for Rick Adelman, who left the team days after his fourth season in Houston ended.

'I was a little uncertain whether I was going to jump in with both feet - I wanted it to be the right situation - but after spending time with them, I felt this is a good situation to get involved in,' McHale told NBA.com before Game 1 of the NBA finals.

McHale's first coaching experience came when he took over the Timberwolves for the last 31 games of the 2005 season after he fired Flip Saunders. The long-time Minnesota executive went back to the front office after that, then returned to coach in 2008 after Randy Wittman was fired.

McHale, 53, went 20-43 after taking over that season before the Timberwolves let him go. He had been working as a TV analyst.

'Kevin's experiences as a player, coach and general manager, coupled with his tremendous knowledge of the game and players, made him a terrific analyst for NBA TV and TNT,' Turner Sports President David Levy said in a release. 'Our audience will miss his diverse perspective and terrific sense of humor. We wish Kevin the best of luck in his new role as head coach of the Houston Rockets.'

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

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

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

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Mike Miller says he'll be fine for Game 2 - by Eurobasket News
Miami Heat reserve guard Mike Miller (6'8''-F/G-80, college: Florida) is back at practice, less than 24 hours after leaving the arena with his left arm in a sling.

Miller said Wednesday he'll be ready for Game 2 of the NBA finals Thursday against the Dallas Mavericks. He wore a sleeve on his arm during Game 1 and grimaced several times while managing six points and five rebounds in 20 minutes.

Miller missed much of the season with a series of injuries, but was part of a superior bench effort in the 92-84 win over Dallas. The Heat reserves outscored the Mavericks' reserves 27-17 and outrebounded them 15-8.

Courtesy of www.foxsportsflorida.com

Report: Indiana Pacers likely to re-sign Frank Vogel as Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
The worst kept secret at Conseco Fieldhouse these days (other than Larry Bird's infatuation with BYU's Jimmer Fredette) is that the Pacers will likely re-sign Frank Vogel and make him the head coach going forward.

Vogel was the interim coach last year, taking over for a fired Jim O'Brien in January and coaching the Pacers into the playoffs despite a flawed roster full of inexperienced players.

Were there 'better' coaches out on the market? Yes, of course there were. The Pacers and Mike Brown were flirting for a time, but Brown signed with the Lakers for $18 million. Given Pacers owner Herb Simon's reputation for being cheap, it was always unlikely that he would greenlight Bird to sign someone like Brown. Retaining Vogel makes sense because 1) he's cheap and 2) because the expected NBA lockout will likely drag into the regular season, and installing a new offensive and defensive philosophy without a training camp is simply not practical.

Thus, it seems everyone and their grandmother expects the Pacers to re-sign Vogel.

However, should Vogel sign his name on the contract, it apparently will come with some conditions. According to Indianapolis Star beat writer Mike Wells and Fox Sports Net's Sam Amico, Larry Bird wants Vogel to ditch all of his assistants from last year and hire new ones. Without being re-signed, Vogel has taken this 'suggested' advice and already parted ways with assistant Jay DeFruscio.

According to Mike Wells, former head coach Terry Porter, Minnesota assistant John-Blair Bickerstaff, and former Lakers assistant Frank Hamblen are all in the mix to fill out Vogel's coaching bench.

Courtesy of http://indiana.sbnation.com

Miami Heat blows 15-point lead as Dallas Mavericks tie series - by Eurobasket News
It's a series again.

Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) spun past Heat forward Chris Bosh and banked in a layup with 3.6 seconds left to give the Dallas Mavericks a dramatic 95-93 victory Thursday night in Game 2 of the NBA Finals at AmericanAirlines Arena.

Nowitzkis heroics capped an unlikely comeback that tied this best-of-7 series at 1-1 and sent it to Dallas with momentum suddenly favoring the Mavericks.

Entering this series, it seemed nothing could top the craziness that was the Heats comeback in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals. Then Thursday happened. The Heat led by 15 points with 7:14 left before the Mavericks reeled off a 17-2 run to tie the score at 90 with 57 second remaining.

Nowitzkis three-pointer gave the Mavs a 93-90 lead with 26 seconds left before Heat reserve Mario Chalmers tied the score with a three-pointer from the corner. That set the stage for Nowitzkis final drive of the game.

'I got caught up in trying to stop his drive and thats what he wanted', Bosh said. 'For a split second I played bad defense and it cost us two points.'

Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) missed a desperation 40-footer as time expired. Playing with a torn ligament in his left middle finger, Nowitzki scored 24 points, making 10 of 22 shots, to go along with 11 rebounds.

'I played with [Larry] Bird for three years when he was the best player in the world', Dallas coach Rick Carlisle said.

Guys like that dont feel pain right now.

Poor shot selection by the Heat helped the Mavs inch their way back into the game. The Heat missed four three-point attempts in the final 90 seconds of the game, including two in a row by LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) with the Heat clinging to a two-point lead.

Offensively, thats so uncharacteristic for us - at the end of the game to not be able to execute and move the ball and find an open shot, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said.

Our offensive was inefficient enough to spark them and give them some easy baskets.

The Heat forced 20 turnovers Thursday, and its 31 points off turnovers set a postseason record. Miamis defense was at its maniacal best to begin the fourth quarter. Whirling, swirling, blocking, stealing - the Heat held the Mavericks to 1 of 9 shooting with six turnovers to begin the final 12 minutes.

The fourth-quarter run - a 13-2 edge for the Heat - put Miami ahead by 15 with 7:14 left. Just when it appeared the Heat had firm control of the game and the series, Dallas responded with a 15-2 run, cutting its deficit to 90-88 with 2:45 left.

The Heats brilliant effort to the begin the fourth quarter was all for naught. Dallas countered with a knockout punch of its own to steal home-court advantage.

Dwyane Wade led the Heat with 36 points, making 13 of 20 shots from the field. James had 20 points and eight rebounds. Bosh had 12 points (4 of 16 shooting). Dallas won the rebounding battle 41-30.

Mavericks forward Shawn Marion (6'7''-F-78, college: UNLV) had 20 points (9 of 14 shooting).

We always believe we can comeback no matter what the score is, Marion said. Its a good feeling now. We go back home and got one game here.

The Heat entered the fourth quarter with a four-point lead but the advantage quickly swelled to six after back-to-back defensive stops by the Heat triggered two fast-break field goals. First, a steal by Chalmers led to a powerful dunk by Wade in transition. The Heat forced a shot-clock violation on Dallas next possession. This time, Chalmers dashed to the lane on a fast break to give the Heat a 79-73 lead.

Dallas called a timeout to cool the Heat, but it didnt work. The Heat forced a turnover, and Wade turned the mistake into two free throws to give Miami an eight-point lead.

A three-pointer by Mike Bibby gave the Heat a 69-61 lead with 3:44 left in the third quarter and forced Carlisle to call a timeout. It was Bibby's second three-pointer of the quarter and fourth in the game. After struggling offensively throughout the playoffs, Bibby finished with 14 points (5 of 8 shooting).

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

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NCAA1

Despite reports, Syracuse's Mike Hopkins is not a candidate at Penn State - by Eurobasket News
Syracuse University assistant coach Mike Hopkins' name is being bandied about regarding a head coaching vacancy.

Isn't that always the case? Think Charlotte. Or Providence.

This time Hopkins' name has surfaced in two separate newspaper stories on Penn State's search for a replacement for Ed DeChellis. First, the Harrisburg Patriot-News threw Hopkins' name out there and then the Centre Daily Times mentioned Hopkins in a very off-handed manner in a story that appeared on its website today.

Reached today by phone, Hopkins said he was not involved in the Penn State search and had not been contacted by Penn State officials.

Courtesy of www.syracuse.com

Calhoun remains mum on future - by Eurobasket News
Jim Calhoun told graduates of the high school where he coached and taught that 'the best years are ahead of you.' Still, he wouldn't say how he would spend his own future.

After speaking at commencement ceremonies at Dedham High School on Wednesday, the coach of NCAA champion Huskies said he hadn't decided whether to return to the job he has held since 1986.

'I'm not even thinking about that,' Calhoun said in an interview. 'I'm just thinking about coming home.'

Home, at least on Wednesday, was the town where he lived for 11 years and the school where he had his first real coaching success, going 20-1 in 1970-71 and 21-1 the following season when his team went to the state Division I semifinals.

He was just 28 when he got his first college coaching job in 1972 at Northeastern, guiding the team to four NCAA tournaments.

A native of the Boston suburb of Braintree, Calhoun threw out the ceremonial first pitch on April 9 at the Red Sox home opener against the New York Yankees. Just five days earlier, his Huskies beat Butler 53-41 to win their third national title.

'I can guarantee you I haven't made my mind up in any way,' he said minutes after tossing that pitch. 'I'm just going to try to get this team ready for next year and we'll see what happens.'

Nearly two months later, his message - at least about his plans - was the same.

Calhoun said he enjoyed driving around Dedham by himself for several hours Wednesday and spending time with 11 of the 15 members of his 1971-72 team at Dedham High.

He was 'touched,' he said, by the invitation by the Dedham High senior class and agreed in January to speak at the ceremonies, well before the late-season run that led to the Huskies' title.

The weather interfered with the original plans for the graduation ceremony. Thunder and lightning shortly before the scheduled late afternoon start forced graduates and guests indoors into the main building of the Endicott Estate, a sprawling 15-acre site owned by the town of Dedham.

After graduates accepted their diplomas on the porch, Calhoun gave a shortened version of the speech he had planned.

He told the seniors their graduation marked a beginning, not an end, and 'I envy you for all the things that are ahead of you.'

And 'you start with a clean slate,' he said. 'Don't let them buttonhole you.'

He pointed to the passion of Connecticut point guard Kemba Walker, 'the joy with which he played basketball and the determination that allowed him to graduate in three years.'

Then, just before finishing, Calhoun said, 'There's a lot of things I still want to do. So I better get off this porch before I get hit by lightning.'

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

SEC expected to eliminate divisions in men's basketball - by Eurobasket News
Men's basketball in the Southeastern Conference is about to be united.

The league is expected to eliminate divisions Friday, a move that would make seeding the postseason tournament more fair but also could create some scheduling issues.

The SEC's 12 basketball coaches proposed to athletic directors this week that the league scrap the divisional format and that the tournament be seeded 1 through 12. The top four teams would receive byes in the opening round.

Commissioner Mike Slive expects the proposal to pass when athletic directors and school presidents vote Friday, and the changes would be implemented for the 2011-12 season.

The 16-game conference schedule would remain intact for one year, then the league would expand its number of league games the following season.

Courtesy of www.wkyt.com

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

NEW ZEALAND

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

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

1. Leasure, Taranaki.	22.0
2. Abercrombie, Waika.	20.8
3. Hudson, Manawatu.	20.7
4. Webster, Wellingt.	20.3
5. Dora, Nelson G.	20.0
6. Smith, Waikato P.	19.4
7. Pace, Bay Hawks	19.2
8. Bradshaw, OceanaG.	18.3
9. Polyblank, Southla.	18.3
10. Campbell, Taranak.	18.0

Rebounds Per Game

Alex PLEDGER
  Waika.
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Pledger, Waika.	11.4
2. Horvath, Manawatu.	10.9
3. Vukona, Nelson G.	10.8
4. Campbell, Taranaki.	10.3
5. Allred, OceanaGo.	10.1
6. Seay, Waikato P.	9.3
7. Johnson, Wellingt.	9.1
8. Bradshaw, OceanaG.	9.0
9. Trousdell, Bay H.	8.8
10. Frank, Wellington	8.7

Assists Per Game

Jason CROWE
  Waikato P.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Crowe, Waikato P.	6.9
2. Dickel, Southland	6.0
3. Tait, Wellington S.	5.7
4. Braswell, Southlan.	5.2
5. Martin, Auckland.	4.8
6. Kench, Manawatu J.	4.4
7. Smith, Waikato P.	3.8
8. Meehl, Taranaki MA	3.7
9. Boucher, Auckland.	3.4
10. Vukona, Nelson G.	3.2

Steals Per Game

Jason CROWE
  Waikato P.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Crowe, Waikato P.	2.6
2. Smith, Waikato P.	2.5
3. Seay, Waikato P.	2.3
4. Boucher, Auckland.	2.2
5. Dickel, Southland	2.0
6. Kench, Manawatu J.	2.0
7. Allen, Waikato P.	1.7
8. Frank, Wellington	1.7
9. Vukona, Nelson G.	1.6
10. Leasure, Taranaki.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Alex PLEDGER
  Waika.
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Pledger, Waika.	3.3
2. Seay, Waikato P.	1.5
3. Iti, Southland S.	1.5
4. Campbell, Taranaki.	1.4
5. Allred, OceanaGo.	1.4
6. Spicer, Southlan.	1.2
7. Anthony, Waika.	1.1
8. Brown, Auckland P.	1.0
9. Bradshaw, OceanaG.	0.9
10. Johnson, Wellingt.	0.9

Standings Men

NBL Standings

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

Breakers relaxed over salary cap audit - by Eurobasket News
The Breakers have rubbished Australian media reports that they have been caught up in an Australian NBL audit targeted at clubs rorting the salary cap.

The New Zealand Breakers have rubbished Australian media reports that they have been caught up in an Australian National Basketball League audit targeted at clubs rorting the salary cap.

A Perth report yesterday suggested the Breakers were one of four clubs about to be put under the microscope from the NBL following 'allegations some players had received sponsor payments that weren't included in salary cap details'.

The Australian NBL runs a strict salary cap and players points rating system aimed at keeping the playing field as level as possible.

The West Australian report claimed the NBL had received allegations during this year's finals series - won by the Breakers - that several players involved were receiving illegal payments through third-party deals.

The report went on to allege some players were picking up extra income through access to 'cash cards' or 'tabs'.

The story said following the 'tipoff' the NBL demanded an audit of all four clubs involved in the playoffs - the Perth Wildcats, Townsville Crocodiles and Cairns Taipans were the others.
But Breakers GM Richard Clarke has laughed off suggestions his club has been caught up in a swoop aimed at catching salary cap rorters.

'The reality is this salary cap audit has been known for over 12 months,' said Clarke. 'The NBL announced two months ago that they would audit the top four clubs, and we even did TV interviews on it in April.'

Clarke described the audit as a procedural matter that was instituted as part of the league's new licensing agreement rather than a probe aimed at uncovering anything sinister.

The Breakers boss said he has the club's salary cap folder on his desk awaiting word from the NBL that it is required and he offered an emphatic assurance that there was nothing amiss in it.

'We're very open with the NBL,' added Clarke. 'We declare everything. Some of the rumours are that we're giving away burger cards and grocery vouchers. Anything that's part of a player payment goes in our salary cap declaration.

'We're very relaxed about this audit.'

Clarke confirmed the Breakers 'had some breathing room' under the cap last season, and that the new roster being put together for 2011-12 would also come in under the league limit.

Clarke said he was also 'relaxed' about the uncertain status of club MVP Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) who has until August 1 to exercise an 'out' in his contract with the club.

'It's not really any different to any other year. If a huge offer comes in he has the ability to consider it, but we're planning on the fact that he'll be here, and I think he is too.'

Penney is currently in the United States where he usually spends the majority of his off-season.

Courtesy of www.stuff.co.nz

Airs focus on two-win tally - by Eurobasket News
It is regarded as one of the toughest tasks in national league basketball, but the Taranaki Mountain Airs believe they can return from the deep south with two wins this weekend.

The Mountain Airs head south this morning for their daunting doubleheader against the Otago Nuggets in Dunedin tonight and the Southland Sharks tomorrow.

'It's a tough trip, it always is in terms of travel,' Taranaki Mountain Airs coach David Bublitz said yesterday.

'But we're targeting two wins. The pressure is firmly on us if we want to make the playoffs ... every game is virtually do or die.'

They may be after two wins, but Bublitz said last placed Otago needed just as much focus as Southland, who are in fifth place.

'That's [Otago] the one we have to deal with first. We arrive early afternoon, so have plenty of time to prepare.'

Bublitz said it was important to carry on from last week where the team stormed back in the second half, overcoming a 16-point deficit to pip the Auckland Pirates 101-99 on the buzzer.

'It's important to carry on with that intensity. Hopefully they realise that's the intensity they need all the time. We've shown glimpses of it in games, we need it for four quarters,' he said.
'The guys got a lot of confidence from the win. It showed them they can fight back. There was a lot of relief afterwards. For me, there was both elation and relief.'

However, Bublitz is realistic and knows not too many teams make the trip south and pick up two wins.

'It would be magnificent to do that, but we will have to play well. We need to restrict Otago's big men Craig Bradshaw and Lance Allred and limit their shooters. If we do that, we'll be right.'

Otago head into tonight's match with one win from eight games compared to Taranaki's two-win, six-loss record.

The southerners are sure to be smarting after a 42-point loss to the Waikato Pistons last weekend. Bradshaw leads the team's scoring with 18.3 points a game.

The Mountain Airs drive to Invercargill tomorrow morning for their game against the Sharks who are led by Breakers star Kevin Braswell, Mark Dickel and Brendon Polyblank.

Nelson scored a 91-73 win over Auckland on Wednesday night.

Nelson's consistent shooting, led by Rod Grizzard's 18 and Daryl Dora's 17, proved too strong for the home team. Mika Vukona chipped in with a double double, posting 16 points and notching up 12 rebounds.

Courtesy of www.stuff.co.nz

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NORWAY

Sweden U18 edged Norway U18 on June 2nd - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18-Norway U18 78:70

Sweden edged Norway on June 2nd at the Nordic Championship Men U18. The Swedish squad trailed in the majority of the game but won it due to the second half.
Norway started the game with 21-15 in the first period and then dominated also the second frame. After 21-18 they increased to 9-point at the halftime. Sweden needed 21-18 in the third period to reduce the gap and then erupted with 24-10 in the last quarter.
Sweden had a better percentage from the field and had 54% versus 25% from the three-point line. Norway however showed better percentage from the free throw line, 81% versus 69%.
Marcus Eriksson (196-F/G-93) paced all the winners with 24 points and Jesper Eliasson (199-F-94) added 10. Fredrik Andersson (196-G/F-93) notched 9, whilst Tobias Borg (182-G-93) scored 8. Chris-Ebou Ndow (197-G-93) answered with 25 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Lars Harto (198-F-93) scored 14, whilst Sindre de Lange (187-G-93) nailed 11.

Sweden U18: Marcus Eriksson 24, Jesper Eliasson 10, Fredrik Andersson 9, Tobias Borg 8
Norway U18: Chris-Ebou Ndow 25+8 rebs, Lars Harto 14, Sindre de Lange 11

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

PERU

Turnquest and Damariet strengthen Escuela Fap's roster - by Timothy
Escuela de Oficiales de la Fap has strengthen its team by adding two new import players to the roster. Christopher Turnquest (203-F/C-83, college: Miles CC) and Quentin Demariet (198-F-82, college: Five Towns) arrived in Peru late last month to help lead Fap to victory against some of its tougher opponents. Both players are members of the Bahamas National team and very experienced players. In addtion,both are arriving to Lima after playing the LNBP of Mexico in 2010-2011,a well respected league. The two have great chemistry together as they have played together for years which will be benefical to Fap's rapid success. These additions should help improve Fap's seeding in the standings of the Superior league.

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POLAND

Jacek Winnicki stays in Zgorzelec - by Eurobasket News
Jacek Winnicki will remain on the bridge of PGE Turow. The sides have agreed on terms of contract extension. Jacek Winnicki joined PGE Turow at the start of the previous season. The specialist guided the team into PLK Finals. Eurobasket.com named Jacek Winnicki All-Polish League Coach of the Year.

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PORTUGAL

Terceira Basket clinch Proliga title - by Eurobasket News
Barcelos - Terceira 61:68

Terceira Basket celebrated Proliga title. They overcame Barcelos in an exhausting battle in the fifth decisive game of the championship series. Diogo Goncalves (200-F-87) and Nate Bowie (183-G-86, college: Cent.Arkansas) delivered 20 points each to pace Terceira to the trophy.
Barcelos tried to stay in charge throughout the opening frame. They recorded an 18:16 lead after ten minutes. But Terceira struck right back in the second term. They stepped on the gas and claimed a 39:26 halftime advantage. Barcelos did not say die. The hosts changed the tempo and cut the deficit at just four points with one quarter remaining 45:49. Barcelos got within just one point 54:55 with three minutes to go in the game but Terceira cleared off once again and rallied to the victory at the end. Nate Bowie added 8 assists and 8 rebounds to his tally. Durrell Nevels (198-F-86, college: Cent.Arkansas) finished with 14 points and 19 rebounds for the winners. Pedro Silva (198-F-79) answered with 18 points and 14 rebounds for Barcelos. Joao Moreira (200-C-85) had 17 points in the loss.

Barcelos: Pedro Silva 18+14 boards, Joao Moreira 17+10 boards
Terceira: Diogo Goncalves 20, Nate Bowie 20, Durrell Nevels 14+19 boards

Eurobasket.com All-Proliga Awards 2010-11 - by Luis Filipe Cristovao

Eurobasket.com All-Proliga 1st Team 2011

Bowie

Oliveira

Dias

Nevels

Silva

Player of the Year: Nate Bowie (183-G-86) of Terceira Basket
Guard of the Year: Nate Bowie (183-G-86) of Terceira Basket
Forward of the Year: Durrell Nevels (198-F-86) of Terceira Basket
Center of the Year: Pedro Silva (198-F-79) of Barcelos
Newcomer of the Year: Nate Bowie (183-G-86) of Terceira Basket
Most Improved Player of the Year: Tiago Magalhaes (192-F-76) of Seixal
Import Player of the Year: Nate Bowie (183-G-86) of Terceira Basket
Domestic Player of the Year: Nuno Oliveira (186-G-89) of Povoa
Defensive Player of the Year: Rui Coelho (191-G-89) of Povoa
Coach of the Year: Ricardo Rodrigues of Barcelos

1st Team
G: Nuno Oliveira (186-G-89) of Povoa
G: Nate Bowie (183-86) of Terceira Basket
F: Carlos Dias (197-79) of Fisica
F: Durrell Nevels (198-86) of Terceira Basket
F: Pedro Silva (198-79) of Barcelos

2nd Team
G: Antonio Pires (185-86) of Galitos FC
G: Nuno Pedroso (187-79) of Barcelos
F: Alvaro Pontes (190-85) of Terceira Basket
F: Anthony jr. Oha (198-83) of Povoa
F/C: Terrence Mack (198-84) of Angra

Honorable Mention
Carlos Fechas (180-G-81) of Barcelos
Kevin Jolley (197-F-82) of Angra
Sergio Correia (197-F-85) of Alges
Tiago Magalhaes (192-F-76) of Seixal
Joao Diamantino (201-F-85) of Maia Basket
Joao Gaspar (196-F-89) of Guifoes
Malcolm Thomas (196-F/G-85) of Galitos FC
Jorge Seabra (174-G-81) of Sangalhos
Andre Dara (180-G-83) of Maia Basket
Rui Coelho (191-G-89) of Povoa

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Nuno Oliveira (186-G-89) of Povoa
G: Antonio Pires (185-86) of Galitos FC
F: Carlos Dias (197-79) of Fisica
C: Joao Moreira (200-85) of Barcelos
F: Pedro Silva (198-79) of Barcelos

All-Imports Team
G: Nate Bowie (183-86) of Terceira Basket
F/G: Malcolm Thomas (196-85) of Galitos FC
F: Sergio Correia (197-85) of Alges
F: Durrell Nevels (198-86) of Terceira Basket
F/C: Terrence Mack (198-84) of Angra

All-Defensive Team
Andre Dara (180-G-83) of Maia Basket
Rui Coelho (191-G-89) of Povoa
Nuno Bizarro (192-F-80) of Sangalhos
Durrell Nevels (198-F-86) of Terceira Basket
Terrence Mack (198-F/C-84) of Angra

All-Newcomers Team
Antonio Pires (185-G-86) of Galitos FC
Nate Bowie (183-G-86) of Terceira Basket
Carlos Dias (197-F-79) of Fisica
Durrell Nevels (198-F-86) of Terceira Basket
Terrence Mack (198-F/C-84) of Angra

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PUERTO RICO

Randolph number one in Puerto Rico for week 20 - by Eurobasket News
American forward Shavlik Randolph (208-F-83) put on an extraordinary performance in the last week for Isabela, receiving a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for week 20.
The 27-year old player had a double-double of 26 points and 22 rebounds, while his team Isabela maintains the 10th position in Puerto Rican BSN. Isabela is bottom ranked team in the standings. But it was their 16th lost game this season out of 23 games. Randolph just recently signed at Isabela, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Former Duke University star has very solid stats this year. Randolph is in league's top in rebounds (2nd best: 12.4rpg) and averages impressive 1.5bpg.

The second best player in last week's games was 29-year old American swingman Joel Jones (196-G/F-81) of Quebradillas. Jones had a very good evening with a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds. It was enough for Quebradillas to edge the lower-ranked Isabela (#10, 7-16) 79-74. Quebradillas' 3rd position in the standings has not changed. His team's 13-9 record is not bad at all. Jones is one of the most experienced players at Quebradillas and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last week was American guard Javier Mojica (190-G-84, agency: Alti Sport) of league's top team Bayamon. Mojica scored 24 points and grabbed five rebounds. He was a key player of Bayamon, leading his team to a 87-73 easy win against the lower-ranked Coamo (#9, 9-14). Bayamon confirms their top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 14 victories and 7 lost games. Mojica has a very solid season. In 21 games in Puerto Rico he scored 13.0ppg. He also has 5.4rpg and and 3PT: 41.9%. Javier Mojica has also Puerto Rican passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Manuel Antonio Narvaez (211-C-81) of Coamo - 12 points and 14 rebounds
5. Peter John Ramos (222-C-85) of Quebradillas - 23 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Ricky Sanchez (212-C/F-87) of Santurce - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Christian Dalmau (194-G-77) of Bayamon - 17 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists
8. Walter Hodge (183-G-86) of Santurce - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Terrence Shannon (203-F-79) of Bayamon - 13 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Rick Rickert (211-F-83) of Bayamon - 12 points and 8 rebounds

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

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

1. Bayamon		14-7
2. Guaynabo		13-9
3. Quebradillas		13-9
4. Santurce		13-10
5. San German		12-9
6. Arecibo		12-11
7. Humacao		10-13
8. Mayaguez		9-14
9. Coamo		9-14
10. Isabela		7-16

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game

Angel Daniel VASSALLO
  Guaynabo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 24.6

1. Vassallo, Guaynabo	24.6
2. Ramos, Quebradillas	24.6
3. Ayuso, Arecibo	21.9
4. Dalmau, Bayamon	21.8
5. Johnson, Humacao	20.4
6. Villegas, Coamo	20.0
7. Romero, Mayaguez	18.6
8. Harris, San German	18.2
9. Carmona, Mayaguez	17.7
10. Randolph, Isabela	17.4

Rebounds Per Game

Manuel Antonio NARVAEZ
  Coamo
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 13.3

1. Narvaez, Coamo	13.3
2. Randolph, Isabela	12.4
3. Harris, San German	11.9
4. Ramos, Quebradillas	11.3
5. Pruitt, Guaynabo	11.3
6. Lloreda, San G.	10.7
7. Rickert, Bayamon	10.1
8. Romero, Mayaguez	9.7
9. Sweetney, Santurce	9.6
10. Shannon, Bayamon	9.2

Assists Per Game

Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 6.5

1. Dalmau, Bayamon	6.5
2. Brown, Quebradillas	5.9
3. Guzman, Guaynabo	4.8
4. Clemente, Humacao	4.7
5. Clinch, Isabela	4.5
6. Apodaca, Quebradil.	4.3
7. Vega, Coamo	4.1
8. Rivera, Mayaguez	4.0
9. Copeland, San G.	3.8
10. Berdiel, Humacao	3.7

Steals Per Game

Darnell HINSON
  Isabela
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Hinson, Isabela	1.9
2. Robinson, Mayaguez	1.7
3. Santiago, Santurce	1.6
4. Carmona, Mayaguez	1.6
5. Clinch, Isabela	1.5
6. Rivera, Mayaguez	1.5
7. Robinson, Humacao	1.5
8. Berdiel, Humacao	1.4
9. Hodge, Santurce	1.4
10. Mojica, Bayamon	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Herve LAMIZANA
  Mayaguez
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 3

1. Lamizana, Mayaguez	3.0
2. Penn, Humacao	2.5
3. Traylor, Bayamon	2.0
4. Santiago, Arecibo	2.0
5. Romero, Mayaguez	1.9
6. Sanchez, Santurce	1.7
7. Aubry, Arecibo	1.6
8. Randolph, Isabela	1.5
9. Robinson, Mayaguez	1.5
10. Ramos, Quebradill.	1.3

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SERBIA

Stats Leaders - 1B

Points Per Game

Dragan BJELICA
  Viva Basket
  (198-G-81)
  Avg: 26.6

1. Bjelica, Viva Bask.	26.6
2. Svilar, Smederevo	20.1
3. Radic, Spartak	18.8
4. Dukanac, Mladost	18.8
5. Blagojevic, KG 06	18.4
6. Tesanovic, KK Nis	17.4
7. Trailovic, Sindje.	17.4
8. Lalic, Radnicki BG	15.9
9. Glisovic, Student	15.8
10. Ivosev, Vojvodina	15.7

Rebounds Per Game

Nemanja KNEZEVIC
  Vojvodina
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 10.2

1. Knezevic, Vojvodina	10.2
2. Vuletic, Viva Bask.	8.7
3. Gugleta, Zeleznicar	8.0
4. Ivosev, Vojvodina	7.5
5. Koprivica, Radnick.	7.0
6. Boricic, Radnicki.	7.0
7. Dukanac, Mladost	7.0
8. Petrovic, Viva B.	7.0
9. Glisovic, Student	6.7
10. Trailovic, Sindje.	6.6

Assists Per Game

Dragan BJELICA
  Viva Basket
  (198-G-81)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Bjelica, Viva Bask.	6.7
2. Karic, Radnicki BG	6.7
3. Kasabasic, Zelezni.	5.5
4. Boltic, Radnicki BG	4.9
5. Stanisavljev., Jag.	4.4
6. Tanasijevic, Stude.	4.2
7. Tesanovic, KK Nis	4.2
8. Mijovic, Radnicki.	4.2
9. Dinic, Spartak	4.2
10. Vukasovic, Radnic.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Negoslav GACIC
  Radnicki BG
  (--)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Gacic, Radnicki BG	3.1
2. Karic, Radnicki BG	2.6
3. Tanasijevic, Stude.	2.1
4. Zivanovic, Smede.	2.1
5. Dinic, Spartak	2.0
6. Ivosev, Vojvodina	2.0
7. Tomasevic, Vojvo.	1.9
8. Radic, Spartak	1.9
9. Stojacic, KG 06	1.8
10. Djordjevic, KK Nis	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Slobodan GUGLETA
  Zeleznicar
  (-C-83)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Gugleta, Zeleznicar	2.4
2. Karahodzic, Spartak	1.6
3. Vasilic, Radnic.	1.3
4. Knezevic, Vojvodina	1.2
5. Petrovic, Viva B.	1.0
6. Savic, Student	0.9
7. Markovic, Sindjeli.	0.8
8. Marelja, KG 06	0.8
9. Petronic, Radnicki.	0.8
10. Mirkovic, KG 06	0.8

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SLOVENIA

Krka wins Finals Game 1 by 23, Olimpija tying worst loss ever - by Zeljko Zule
Krka blasted Olimpija in the Game 1 of the best-of-five final series, 78-55, tying the record for the Olimpija's worst loss in League history. They lost 76-99 to Interier Krsko in 1995-96 season.
Krka never trailed and went on a 8-1 run to go ahead 14-7. They found its first double digit lead of the game early in the second quarter, 26-15. Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83, agency: Beo Basket) scored 19 points, Jure Balazic had 14 points and 8 rebounds, Smiljan Pavic and Chris Booker both posted 11 points and Goran Dragic added 10. Krka shot 64 percent (29-45) from 2-point range, while Olimpija shot just 14-od-31 and were outrebounded 24-33. Kenny Gregory netted 11 points and Giorgi Shermadini 10.
Finals Game 1: Krka-Olimpija 78-55 (24-15, 13-15, 22-10, 19-15)
KRKA: Rojc, Petrov, E.Muric 4, *Pavic 11, *Djordjevic 19, *Dragic 10, Booker 11, Krivec, *Drobnjak 9, *Balazic 14, Kastelic DNP, Osojnik DNP.
OLIMPIJA: Span 2, *Ilievski 3, Boisa 2, *Anagonye 7, *Gregory 11, Jagodnik 7, Shermadini 10, Klobucar, *Markota 2, Bertans 3, *Ozbolt 6, Udrih 2.
Game 2 will be played on Saturday in Ljubljana.

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game

Vladimir PANIC
  Zlatorog
  (194-F-82)
  Avg: 20.4

1. Panic, Zlatorog	20.4
2. Raymond, Helios	17.7
3. Simovic, Sentjur	17.4
4. Erzen, Parklji	16.9
5. Thondique, Polzela	16.3
6. Harmason, Sentjur	15.1
7. Djapa, Geoplin Slo.	14.7
8. Nuhanovic, Elektra	13.6
9. Krejic, Parklji	13.4
10. Zolotic, Maribor	12.9

Rebounds Per Game

Gregg THONDIQUE
  Polzela
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 10.5

1. Thondique, Polzela	10.5
2. Simovic, Sentjur	8.9
3. Nuhanovic, Elektra	8.3
4. Raymond, Helios	7.4
5. Miljkovic, Elektra	7.0
6. Krusic, Geoplin	6.8
7. Zolotic, Maribor	6.5
8. Mucic, Maribor	6.2
9. Pavic, Krka	6.2
10. Erzen, Parklji	6.1

Assists Per Game

Igor MIJAJLOVIC
  Polzela
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 4.7

1. Mijajlovic, Polzela	4.7
2. Brolih, Maribor	4.4
3. Jersin, Elektra	4.1
4. Hohler, Sentjur	3.9
5. Harmason, Sentjur	3.8
6. Djordjevic, Krka	3.7
7. Krivec, Krka	3.6
8. Vujasinovic, Zlato.	3.6
9. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	3.5
10. Ilievski, Union O.	3.4

Steals Per Game

Gregg THONDIQUE
  Polzela
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Thondique, Polzela	2.3
2. Ilievski, Union O.	1.9
3. Mezek, LTHcast	1.9
4. Dragic, Krka	1.8
5. Mahkovic, LTHcas.	1.6
6. Lapornik, Zlatorog	1.6
7. Harmason, Sentjur	1.6
8. Ikonic, Krka	1.6
9. Hohler, Sentjur	1.5
10. Fon, Geoplin Slov.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra
  (209-C-82)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Nuhanovic, Elektra	1.8
2. Thondique, Polzela	1.2
3. Dimec, Zlatorog	1.0
4. Booker, Krka	0.9
5. Sviridov, Polzela	0.9
6. Shermadini, Union	0.7
7. Pavic, Krka	0.6
8. Sebic, Sentjur	0.6
9. Omic, Zlatorog	0.6
10. Lapornik, Zlatorog	0.5

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SOUTH KOREA

Bang decided to end his career - by JungHwan Seo
One of the best scorer and 3point shooter in the KBL history decided to finish his playing career so early.

Seoul SK Knights announced on Wednesday that Bang Sung-Yoon (197-F/G-82) wanted to end his career due to serious right foot injury. SK waived Bang's player status. If Bang can change his mind in the near future, he can comeback to only his former team SK.

'It was too shocking for me as his coach and former teammate. We still thought that Bang is very important player for us. We tried everything to change his mind but he was unshakable. We will keep talking to him again and again.' head coach Moon Kyung-Eun (190-F-71) said.

Bang was No.1 scorer in the country since he was in high school. He was a go to guy of U-19 Korean national team. They got Asian championship in 2000 over China. Bang was only collegiate player in 2002 Asian game final against China. At that moment, Bang got a golden medal that gave him an exemption from military service.

In 2004, Bang chose to challenge in the D-league. He averaged 12.5 points and led the D-league with 38 3point shots made.

Bang became the No.1 draftee at the 2005 KBL Draft. When he debuted to KBL in 2006, he averaged 19.3 points and got a rookie of the year. He scored 22.1 points per game at next season. He made 12 3point shots against Qatar at the Asian game 2006 in Doha.

Nobody could stop him except some injuries. He could not play regularly after he got a serious injury on his left knee in 2007. He missed 139 games during his 5 seasons in KBL. His annual salary was 400 million won in 2009. But after he became a free agent, the other 9 teams don't want to pay to him more. He had to resign with SK for another 4 years in 2010. His annual salary was dropped to only 130 million won.

Bang tried several times to rise again. But he was sick and tired of lots of injuries and recoveries. He played just 5 games at last season.

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SPAIN

Stats Leaders - ACB

Points Per Game

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

1. Carroll, Gran Cana.	19.3
2. Navarro, Regal B.	15.7
3. McDonald, DKV J.	15.3
4. Baron, Lagun A.	15.0
5. Fitch, Unicaja	15.0
6. Teletovic, Caja L.	14.6
7. Caner-Medley, Estu.	14.4
8. Martinez, Valencia	14.0
9. Davis, Cajasol	13.2
10. Freeland, Unicaja	13.2

Rebounds Per Game

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

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

Assists Per Game

Marcelinho HUERTAS
  Caja L.
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Huertas, Caja L.	5.9
2. Cook, Valencia	5.4
3. Ciorciari, Menorca	4.9
4. Valters, Fuenlabr.	4.5
5. Salgado, Lagun A.	4.3
6. Rubio, Regal Barca	4.2
7. Green, Gran Canaria	4.0
8. San Miguel, Manre.	3.9
9. Dumas, Valladolid	3.9
10. Prigioni, Real Ma.	3.7

Steals Per Game

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

1. Cook, Valencia	2.2
2. Kirksay, Cajasol	1.9
3. Robinson, DKV J.	1.8
4. Batista, Fuenlabr.	1.8
5. Calloway, Cajasol	1.8
6. Rubio, Regal Barca	1.6
7. Van Lacke, Vallado.	1.5
8. Victor, Menorca	1.5
9. Davis, Cajasol	1.5
10. Ayon, Fuenlabrada	1.5

Blocks Per Game

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

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

ACB: Bilbao eliminates Real Madrid, joins Barca in the Finals - by Eurobasket News
ACB Semifinals, Game 4: Bizkaia Bilbao - Real Madrid 80-72 (3-1)

Bilbao reached the first ACB Finals in their history. They managed to beat Real Madrid tonight 80-72 winning the series with almost perfect 3-1. In their seventh season in ACB the team reached Finals where they will take on powerful Regal Barca. It will be another best-of-five series (2-2-1). Barca will have a home court advantage as they were regular season champions with 27-7 record.
The hosts trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 26-17 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Bizkaia Bilbao made 29-of-31 free shots (93.5 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Real Madrid helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Aaron Jackson (193-86, college: Duquesne) fired 17 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. The former international forward Alex Mumbru (202-79) chipped in 15 points. Croatian center Ante Tomic (217-87) produced 17 points and 6 rebounds and American center D'or Fischer (211-81, college: W.Virginia) added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Real Madrid's coach Emanuele Molin rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.

Top scorers:
Bizkaia Bilbao: A.Jackson 17+6reb+2ast, A.Mumbru 15+4reb+3ast, M.Banic 12+5reb+1ast, D.Mavroeidis 8+3reb, C.Vasiliadis 7+1reb+1ast, A.Hervelle 6+6reb+2ast
Real Madrid: A.Tomic 17+6reb, S.Llull 13+3reb+1ast, D.Fischer 12+5reb+1ast, P.Prigioni 8+4reb+1ast, C.Suarez 7+2reb+1ast, F.Reyes 6+3reb

Pau Gasol wants to play for Spain in European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Lakers forward Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) confirmed Wednesday that he plans to play for the Spanish national team in this summer's European Championship, according to the Spanish basketball federation website.

'This year, my intention is to be available for the Spanish team if the coach feels he can count on me,' Gasol said in Spanish in a report on the team's website. 'I would like to help Spain win another European Championship.'

Gasol sat out of the 2010 FIBA World Championships last summer while Spain finished in sixth place, opting for rest because of fatigue and injury concerns. He had appeared in helped Spain win the 2006 FIBA World Championship, appeared three consecutive NBA Finals series and the earned a silver medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He also broke his left index finger in the 2009 offseason while practicing with the Spanish national team and suffered strained left and right hamstrings that sidelined him for a combined 17 games with the Lakers during the 2009-2010 campaign.

Gasol, who's currently vacationing in Spain, said in his recent exit interview that he was 'leaning toward playing' in the European Championship that takes place Aug. 31 to Sept. 18 in Lithuania for several reasons. There will be an NBA lockout should the league and players union fail to reach a new collective bargaining agreement after June 30. He wants give Spain a better chance at qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics. And he hopes to rectify his poor postseason performance, where his per game average of 13.1 points on 42% shooting played a large part in the Lakers getting swept by the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference semifinals .

'It's hard for European players not to contribute to their international teams,' Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak said in his exit interview. 'It's not new to me, and I knew months ago [Gasol] was expecting to play. We have a little bit more free time than we expected. Maybe its not a bad thing.'

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

Ricky Rubio agrees to terms with Minnesota Timberwolves, source says - by Eurobasket News
Ricky Rubio (192-G-90) is coming to Minnesota after all.

The Spanish point guard has agreed to join the Timberwolves next season, ending a two-year negotiation with the team that had a few stops and starts.

A person with knowledge of the agreement confirmed to The Associated Press on Wednesday night that Rubio will play in the NBA next season. The person requested anonymity because neither Rubio nor the Timberwolves planned to make an official announcement while he continues to play for Regal Barcelona in the Euroleague playoffs.

The Timberwolves drafted Rubio fifth overall two years ago despite a buyout of his Spanish contract that topped $6 million. The enormity of the buyout caused Rubio to stay overseas rather than immediately come to the NBA, and there was talk that the precocious teenager did not want to play in Minnesota.

The current labor uncertainty complicated the negotiations. But Rubio ultimately decided he was ready to come over now.

Timberwolves spokesman Mike Cristaldi said the team was declining comment.

'As of now, we have nothing new to report,' Cristaldi said.

The news marks the successful end to a long, and often winding, daliance between the Timberwolves and Rubio. Wolves President David Kahn spent two years in a complex, delicate negotiation, not wanting to put too much pressure on the youngster yet still emphasizing how much the team was looking forward to bringing the slick-passing point guard to the United States.

Kahn called Rubio 'a virtuoso and somebody special' after drafting him in 2009. He and agent Dan Fegan came to agreement to bring Rubio over to the NBA that summer, but Rubio pulled out at the last minute after deciding he did not want to pay a buyout that topped $6 million out of his own pocket.

That led to speculation that Rubio did not want to play in cold, small-market Minnesota and was hoping to force a trade to a bigger, more desirable market. But Rubio never expressed that himself, and owner Glen Taylor said he didn't believe that to be the case.

Under current NBA rules, the Timberwolves can only contribute $500,000 to Rubio's buyout from Regal Barcelona. But by staying in Spain for another two years, Rubio's buyout has now dropped to a more manageable $1.4 million.

A person with knowledge of the negotiations said the Timberwolves have been woking with several local companies on some endorsement opportunities that would help pay that bill.

The negotiations reached a deadline of sorts on Tuesday, when Rubio needed to sign a contract in order to be put under the current rookie salary wage scale.

He was faced with a difficult decision -- sign with the Wolves and lock himself into the guaranteed money of that rookie contract while risking losing games of his first NBA season to a potential lockout, or wait to see what unfolds with the league's uncertain labor situation and spend a third season in Spain.

Waiting, however, could have cost him money in the long run if the owners are successful in their bid to gain major wage concessions from the players, or if Rubio's on-court production continued to slip like it did this season, thereby hurting his negotiating leverage.

Rubio averaged a modest 6.5 points per game on 39 percent shooting. But the Timberwolves think he will flourish in the more wide-open NBA, where guards are allowed much more freedom on the perimeter.

Rubio first burst on to the scene with a surprisingly poised and heady performance against Team USA in the Beijing Olympics, earning praise from stars including Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.

'He's a special player and a very good point guard,' Lakers forward and fellow Spainiard Pau Gasol said earlier this season. 'Very unselfish. He's got great size, great length. He knows how to play the game very well. He's got a great feel for the game. He's just a guy that will get the team going and do what he needs to do.'

The news was a much-needed jolt to a struggling franchise. The Timberwolves finished with the worst record in the league last season, and their history of bad lottery luck continued when the Cavaliers leap-frogged them for the first pick in the draft.

The team has won just 32 games in the last two years and desperately needs a capable point guard to feed the ball to Kevin Love and Michael Beasley.

With Rubio now in the mix, the first of many needs can be scratched off the list.

Courtesy of www.cleveland.com

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SWEDEN

TAIWAN

Jeremy Lin mulling to play for Taiwan: report - by Chris Wang
Golden State Warriors guard Jeremy Lin (191-G-89, college: Harvard) does not rule out the possibility to play for Taiwan in Asian competitions after meeting with Ting Shou-chung, the President of the Chinese Taipei Basketball Association (CTBA), last week in San Francisco, local media reported.

According to the Central News Agency, Ting had conversation with Lin's parents during his stay in the U.S. to persuade the Harvard graduate to consider playing for Taiwan, where his parents came from.

CNA quoted Ting as saying that both sides had 'great discussions' on the matter. However, Ting did not say whether Lin will join Taiwan NT in the FIBA Asian Championship in September.

Ting said the hiring of former NBA head coach Bob Hill as Taiwan NT's technical consultant in the Asian competitions is expected to have 'positive effect' on Lin's final decision.

Jeremy Lin became the first Taiwanese-American player to play in the NBA when he signed a two-year contract with the Warriors last year. The 6-3 point guard appeared in 23 game in his rookie season and averaged 2.6 points, 1.4 assists and 1.1 steals per game.

China is also recruiting Lin to play for its national team, according to Ting.

Lin, who visited Taiwan last summer, is scheduled to visit the country again in August for a promotional tour, Ting said.

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TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

North Zone Basketball Elections - by Albert-Lee Young
The North Zone Basketball Commission will hold its annual general meeting today at the LOC Conference Room at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Wrightson Road, from 6.30 pm.

At the meeting, there will be the election of officers to replace the incumbent in the positions of chairman, vice-chairman, secretary, assistant secretary and treasurer. Jamal Duke, Keith Clement, Nekeisha Alfred, Jinelle Charles and Kerron Marson currently hold the respective positions.

Also on the agenda will be a presentation for the upcoming 2011 season and planned programmes, the past 2010 season, as well as the position of the Zones finances.

Clubs invited to attend include Caledonia Clippers, Starker Nets, Macoya Forum, UTT, Defence Force, Diego Martin All Stars, Republic Bank Arrows, National Flour Mills, TSTT, Pistons, Courts Horizon, Beetham Raptors, Crusaders, Detour Shak Attack and Trailblazers.

Trinidad Guardian

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Claxton brings pro experience to sidelines - by David Edole
SUWANEE --Whenever the 12U SC Raptors it is not hard to see who coaches the team. The imposing figure is not just taller than them Charles Claxton (213-C-70, college: Georgia) Jr. is the tallest person in gym.
Claxton brings a wealth of basketball knowledge to the South Carolina organization. The seven-footer played four seasons at the University of Georgia. After his time in Athens, he had a taste of professional basketball in the NBA and Europe. Now, Claxton is on the sideline leading looking to make noise during the summer basketball circuit.

'It's a fun learning experience,' Claxton said. 'It is very difficult though because you have to deal with 12 players on the team.'

Claxton managed to balance the different personalities and issues that may occur when coaching young men. His team advance to the 12U championship game of the D1Spects Atlanta Invitational before losing to the Florida Family 35-24 on Sunday at Suwanee Sports Academy.

The Raptors finished 2-2 in the tournament both losses coming to the Florida-based organization. Going into the championship game, Claxton wanted to make sure his team was not intimidated by the taller Family team, which had 6-foot-5 twins in the post.

'I want to bring more fundamentals and toughness,' Claxton said. 'We just want to go at them and that toughness will carry them on in everyday life.'

Claxton knows a few things about toughness. The St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands played at Miami (FL) Carol City High before attending Georgia. He was then selected by the Phoenix Suns in the second round (50th pick overall) of the 1994 NBA Draft. Claxton played for the Boston Celtics for half of the 1995-96 season before taking his game to Europe.
His playing skills offered him stops in Lithuania, Poland and England. He soon retired from basketball returned to the states and now owns a furniture moving business in Greenville, South Carolina. The 40-year old father of two felt it was time to get into coaching when boys Nicholas (12) and Chase (10) started gaining interest in the sport.

'It's different playing for him,' Nicholas said. 'If you make a mistake it's not the same for someone that their dad is not your coach. When I was younger I watched a lot of basketball with him.'

Being around the game now it completely different from when the elder Claxton played. He was not involved with AAU or travel basketball. Today's players are more athletic.

Despite Claxton's busy schedule of raising a family, running a business or coaching the Raptors, there is always time to keep up with the alma maters men's basketball program. He approves of the work coach Mark Fox is doing, even as Trey Thompkins and Travis Leslie opt not to return to Athens to enter the NBA Draft.

'Fox is doing a good job,' Claxton said. 'The program has come a long way.'

This game has taken Claxton around the work and back. Now he is trying to pass on from his experience.

By Robert Alfonso Jr.

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UKRAINE

Ferro-ZNTU release import players - by Eurobasket News
Ferro-ZNTU have decided to release five players. The team parted ways with Christian Burns (203-F-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Philadelphia), Keddric Mays (183-G-84, agency: Hart Sports Mngm), Vincent Hunter (208-F-84, college: Arkansas), Ricky Harris (188-G-87, college: Massachusetts) and R.T. Guinn (208-C-81, college: Baylor).
Christian Burns averaged 16.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.4 assists per game for Ferro-ZNTU. The forward was named Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Player of the Year.
Vincent Hunter tallied 12.5 points, 6.3 boards and 1.4 blocks per appearance. It was the second straight season in Zaporozhye for Hunter.
Keddric Mays arrived to Ukraine from Polish Znicz Jaroslaw. The guard posted 13.3 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game in Superleague.
Ricky Harris joined Ferro-ZNTU in January. His stats read 9.9 points, 3.4 assists and 2.0 rebounds per game in Superleague.
R.T. Guinn has arrived to Zaporozhye in March. The centre averaged 14.3 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game.

Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague 1st Team 2011

Morley

Love

Curry

Cvetkovic

Burns

Playoffs MVP: Zach Morley (203-F-83) of Budivelnyk
Player of the Year: Christian Burns (203-F-85) of Ferro-ZNTU
Guard of the Year: Justin Love (188-G-78) of Mykolaiv
Forward of the Year: Christian Burns (203-F-85) of Ferro-ZNTU
Centre of the Year: J.K. Edwards (202-C/F-82) of BC Donetsk
Bosman Player of the Year: Branko Cvetkovic (200-G/F-84) of BC Donetsk
Import Player of the Year: Christian Burns (203-F-85) of Ferro-ZNTU
Domestic Player of the Year: Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87) of BC Donetsk
Defensive Player of the Year: Curtis Millage (185-G-81) of Khimik
Most Improved Player of the Year: Igor Zaitsev (211-F/C-89) of Kryvbasbasket
Coach of the Year: Sasa Obradovic of BC Donetsk

1st Team
G: Justin Love (188-78) of Mykolaiv
G: Ramel Curry (191-80) of Azovmash
G/F: Branko Cvetkovic (200-84) of BC Donetsk
F: Christian Burns (203-85) of Ferro-ZNTU
C/F: J.K. Edwards (202-82) of BC Donetsk

2nd Team
G: Steve Burtt (185-84) of Dnipro
G: Jeremy Chappell (191-87) of Hoverla
G/F: Brian Greene (196-83) of Mykolaiv
F/C: Igor Zaitsev (211-89) of Kryvbasbasket
C: Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-87) of BC Donetsk

Honorable Mention
Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80) of Budivelnyk
William Keys (188-G-77) of Budivelnyk
Sasa Vasiljevic (183-G-79) of BC Donetsk
Curtis Millage (185-G-81) of Khimik
Eric Coleman (200-C-85) of Hoverla
Derrick Zimmerman (189-G-81) of Hoverla
Andrew Washington (191-G-84) of BC Odessa
Maksym Pustozvonov (200-F-87) of Azovmash
Luis Flores (188-G-81) of BC Donetsk
Michael Fraser (203-C/F-84) of DniproAzot

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Pavlo Burenko (188-90) of BC Kyiv
G: Oleksandr Lypovyy (200-91) of BC Donetsk
F: Maksym Pustozvonov (200-87) of Azovmash
F/C: Igor Zaitsev (211-89) of Kryvbasbasket
C: Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-87) of BC Donetsk

All-Imports Team
G: Justin Love (188-78) of Mykolaiv
G: Ramel Curry (191-80) of Azovmash
G/F: Branko Cvetkovic (200-84) of BC Donetsk
F: Christian Burns (203-85) of Ferro-ZNTU
C/F: J.K. Edwards (202-82) of BC Donetsk

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UNITED KINGDOM

GB Under 20 Men's squad announced - by Eurobasket News
British Basketball has invited nineteen Under 20 men's players to join the Standard Life GB Under 20 women in a combined camp in Colchester at the Braintree Campus this weekend.

The camp will be part of their preparation for the European Youth Championships taking place from mid-July. The Standard Life GB Under 20 men are in Division B for the competition and earlier this year they were drawn in Group C which will see them face Luxembourg, Czech Republic, Portugal, Finland and Norway when they take to the court in Sarajevo.

Colchester hosts the combined Under 20 Men's and Women's camp for the very first time. Head of Performance at British Basketball, Warwick Cann commented: 'Last year's first ever GB combined team camp was a great success which really helped the teams' performances at the European Championships.

'Colchester and the college at Braintree is a fantastic venue which is well supported by the Colchester Institute and will provide the teams with all they need to prepare for this summer.'

The teams will be joined in Colchester at the weekend by NBA strength and conditioning coach Jason Sumerlin from the San Antonio Spurs. Warwick Cann continued: 'Having such an experienced professional from the best basketball league in the world in camp with the Under 20's is a great help with our preparation. This year we are trying to build on previous successes with a focus on sports science, nutrition, strength and conditioning, as well as psychology. The GB teams have also added performance analysis coaches to each team to assist with scouting and game analysis in another attempt to raise performance levels.

'We also have a good programme for working both on and off court with workshops held with a leading sports psychologist designed to maximise performance.'

The Standard Life GB Under 20 Men are straight into their preparation this weekend when they take on Scotland's Under 23 men as part of their schedule. Games will be at 3pm this Saturday and Sunday at the college at Braintree.

The 19 selected Under 20 Men entering camp this weekend in Colchester are:

Shore Adenekan (England)
John Bunyan (Scotland)
Jeff Dirkin (203-F-91) (England)
Keegan Dunlop (208-C-93) (Scotland)
Alasdair Fraser (201-C-92) (Scotland)
Harrison Gamble (206-F/C-92) (England)
Lee Goldsborough (England)
William Hall (201-G-91) (England)
Joshua Houghton (189-G-91) (England)
Josh Johnson (197-G/F-92) (England)
Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) (Scotland)
Alistair Mackay (208-C-91) (Scotland)
Levi Noel (197-G-91) (England)
Lee Reilly (182-G-92) (Scotland)
Ryan Richards (212-F-91, agency: Interperformances) (England)
William Harold Saunders (200-F-91) (England)
Jack Thompson (193-G) (England)
Adam Thoseby (196-F/G-91) (England)
Devon van Oostrum (England)

There were nine players who were considered for camp but who were unavailable for selection because of US college commitments. They were, Teddy Okereafor, Tom Pereira, Ovie Soko, Raheem May-Thompson, Ryan Martin, Grant Fiorentinos, Aaron Geramipor, Abodurin Olansensi, and Vince Van Nes.
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk

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WBA

Conyers Court Kings bring the WBA Exposure League to Conyers, GA! - by Eurobasket
Conyers, Georgia is a proud home of minor league basketball. The Conyers Court Kings enter their third season playing in the emerging WBA Exposure League. The Court Kings owners, locals Thomas Gates, Jr. and Curtis Richardson, couldnt be more thrilled about using this opportunity to better their community. Combining our experience in business with our love and passion for the sport, gives us the avenue to educate and help develop our youth of today and tomorrow. The J.K. Edwards plans to service the community by sponsoring programs that help youth acquire knowledge, develop skills, and form attitudes that enable them to become self-directing, productive and contributing members of society.

According to league founder, Leroy McMath, the league is very excited to continue its partnership with the Court Kings. We target local owners like Thomas Gates, Jr. and Curtis Richardson and former J.P Carr star Eddie Gibson. Not only are they passionate about sports but they also understand the need to forge alliances in the community to help with initiatives that will improve the quality of life of this citys residents by utilizing the core values that has made the WBA successful.

A great example of the community involvement will be on display this Thursday, June 2nd. The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce will be holding a ribbon cutting in honor of the WBA Foundation and the J.K. Edwards. The event will kick off at 11 AM in the Chamber Boardroom located at 1186 Scott Street, Conyers, GA 30012.

Of course, team ownership also feels they have a good chance at succeeding on the court, Owning a professional basketball team in the World Basketball Association allows us to fulfill our goal in putting together a strong team to WIN. So far this season, that has proved to be a challenging goal as the team has started out 0-2. However, the team has a good shot to turn things around quickly behind their strong front line that features former Oklahoma University standout Orlando Allen. Their next action will be on June 3rd on the road against the Gwinnett Majic. A quick trip home will follow as they take on the Tennessee Tornadoes June 4th at 7:30 PM EST at the JP Carr Gym.

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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Round 10 Round Up - by Eurobasket News
Eltham takes top spot, Waverley send the Suns packing, Bulleen bounce past the Broncos and Diamond Valley fall short of Melbourne in Jackie Greaves' 200th game.
Eltham has taken top spot after outlasting a determined Ringwood in a 57-50 win. The Hawks were gallant, especially in the second half, but a poor start proved costly and against the best unit in the league such an advantage is always hard to overcome. Ringwood's Andrea Verdegan (17pts, 5 treys) continues to be the leading point guard in the comp, but in this one it was the class of Hollie Grima-Florance that proved the difference. The Hawks won't go away deflated, they'll be back for another crack later in the season, but for now it looks like the Wildcats are the team to beat.
Hume City remains without a win after 12 attempts, the latest loss coming against a Bulleen outfit desperate to stay in touch with the top four .
www.bigv.com.au
The Boomers pushed clear with a 28-16 final quarter and forced the Broncos into 28 turnovers, a telling factor in the end. Hanna Zavecz (11pts, 20rbs) was solid, as was Olivia Deiana with 15pts in 20min. It's hard to see where the Broncos will snatch a win from as they continue to rebuild after a magical run at the top.
Waverley continues to fly along without fanfare and literally cruised past Sherbrooke, while Diamond Valley threw everything at Melbourne in the hope of celebrating a win in Jackie Greaves' 200th Big V game. It wasn't to be as the Tigers overcame a slow start to finish with a 30pt last quarter and an overall shooting clip of 46%. Alice Hammond (16pts) enjoyed a strong outing for the Tigers, while Katie O'Neill was awesome for the Eagles with 27pts.

ROUND 10 RESULTS
Bulleen 77 defeated Hume City 59 Melbourne 71 defeated D Valley 60 Eltham 57 defeated Ringwood 50
Waverley 67 defeated Sherbrooke 47
The highly-anticipated top-of-the-table clash became a dour struggle with only Eltham's Hollie Grima-Florance (19pts) and Ringwood's Andrea Verdegan (17pts) able to break the shackles.
Waverley's superior defence was at it again, this time reducing Sherbrooke to 47pts at 27%, along with 21 turnovers and only allowing 31 rebounds. While Ringwood and Eltham have some firepower, it seems the Falcons will rely on defence come finals time.
Courtesy of: www.bigv.com.au

Macleod and Cumming to stay with Rangers in 2011/2012 - by Eurobasket News
The Jayco Rangers have re-signed two key ingredients for the 2011-2012 WNBL Season, with Australian Jayco Opals squad members Kathleen Macleod (167-G-86) and Stephanie Cumming (178-G-90) both agreeing to play for Dandenong.

Kathleen rejoins the Jayco Rangers following a stellar 2010/2011 campaign where she averaged 15.4 points and 5.5 assists per game. Despite missing a month of basketball through injury, Kathleen returned to the line-up to help guide Dandenong to their first WNBL Playoff appearance in three years, also earning herself WNBL All Star-Five honours and the Jayco Rangers MVP Award along the way.

Steph, a Dandenong Junior Rangers graduate returns for her third season with the Jayco Rangers and will be looking to continue the form that saw her elevated into the Australian Opals Squad for the 2012 London Olympics.

Jayco Rangers Head Coach, Mark Wright is obviously happy to have both signatures filed away in preparation for the 2011/2012 WNBL Season. I am delighted to have Kathleen back for next season. She is the cornerstone of the team and I expect she will elevate her game to a new level. Steph is coming off an excellent season. Her ability to score quickly plus her great athleticism suggest the future is bright if she continues to work hard on her game.

The Jayco Opals head into camp later this year before squaring off against New Zealand in the FIBA Oceania qualifying series held here in Australia. IN the meantime, Steph is suiting up in the South East Australian Basketball League (SEABL) with the Dandenong Schweppes Rangers who currently sit in second place with a 6-1 record.
The Jayco Rangers squad will commence preseason shortly and more roster announcements are expected shortly.

Courtesy of www.dandenongbasketball.com.au

Carly Wilson re-signs with the Capitals - by Eurobasket News
The Canberra Capitals announced today the re-signing of Australian Opals squad member Carly Wilson (181-G-82) for the upcoming 2011/12 season.

Wilson is coming off her second stellar season at the Capitals, in which she played in all 25 games, including three finals.

A championship winner in her first year at the club in 2009/10, Wilson began her second year on fire, named WNBL Player of the Week in Round 1 of season 2010/11. She went on to average 12.7 points and 4.5 rebounds per game for the year.

Consistently capable of contributing while logging big minutes, Wilson was on the floor for more than 119 out of a possible 120 minutes of action throughout the 2010/11 finals, including her 21 point match-winning performance against the Spirit in the Preliminary Final.

Basketball ACT CEO Mark Cartwright said today that having Wilson return to Canberra is a major boost for the club.

Under the guidance of head coach Carrie Graf, Wilson will now join Nicole Hunt, Marianna Tolo, team captain Jessica Bibby and Michelle Cosier as the core of the Capitals squad for the upcoming 2011/12 WNBL Season.

Courtesy of WNBL (www.wnbl.com.au)

Chelsea Aubry stays with Bendigo Spirit - by Eurobasket News
The Bendigo Spirit have made their first major signing for the 2011-12 WNBL season, securing Canadian import Chelsea Aubry (189-F/C-84, college: Nebraska) for a third season.

Last season Aubry was a valuable member of the Spirits starting five, averaging 9.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per contest and helping the team to their best finish in the clubs history.

Bendigo Spirit coach Bernie Harrower said the re-signing of Aubry would ensure the Spirit continued to be one of the teams to beat in the Womens National Basketball League.

Over the past two years, Chelsea has become a major part of our foundation with the Bendigo Spirit and has been key to our recent success, he said.

Her versatility has proven to be a difficult match-up for opposing teams as she continues to showcase her ability to play inside and out.

With another year in Bendigo, we have no doubt that Chelsea will continue to thrive on and off the court.

The University of Nebraska graduate reached new heights last season, scoring 19 and 21 points in the Spirits round 10 double- header against West Coast and Adelaide respectively.

The 188cm forward also collected a season-high 15 rebounds in the teams round five win over the Waves.

In the WNBL off-season, Aubry has played well for SEABLs new franchise the Geelong Lady Supercats.

After playing only seven matches with Geelong, Aubry averaged 18 points and 11 rebounds.

The forward also earned the SEABL Player of the Week honour for her 28 point, 17 rebound performance in the Supercats round five win over Sandringham.

Aubry has now returned to Canada for commitments with the national team, and is playing a string of practice matches in preparation for the FIBA Americas Championship for Women in September.

Canada will be hoping its performance in Colombia will earn the basketball team qualification for the 2012 London Olympics.

Courtesy of www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au

Tegan Cunningham joins Jayco Rangers - by Eurobasket News
The Dandenong Jayco Rangers have secured the signature of one of the WNBLs brightest young talents, with Tegan Cunningham (185-F-88, college: Oklahoma St.) ready to call Dandenong Stadium home in 2011/2012.

Cunningham joins the Jayco Rangers following her debut season with the Adelaide Lightning. A versatile forward, Cunningham attended Seward County Community College before transferring to collegiate basketball giant, Oklahoma State where she averaged 13.4 points and 5.8 rebounds in her two seasons with the Cowgirls.

In a recent catch up with dandenongrangers.com, Cunningham expressed how happy she is to be joining the Jayco Rangers for the 2011/2012 WNBL Season. I'm pretty excited about becoming a Jayco Ranger because the club is so strong and well known. Being a Melbourne kid definitely helped my decision in signing with Dandenong as it'll be nice to play at home where family and friends can watch me play again. I'm a huge fan of the way Mark coaches. It reminds me of the collage system which is what I'm familiar with. I believe Dandenong will make me a better basketball player. I'm excited for the chance to play alongside some great athletes and improve my knowledge on the basketball court.

Head Coach of the Jayco Rangers, Mark Wright also made comment on Cunninghams arrival at Dandenong. I am excited with the signing of Tegan as she has a great passion for the game and displays flair and athleticism that will be important for us to be successful. She has had a great college career and played very well last season in the WNBL for Adelaide. I am sure Tegan will be a tremendous pick up for the Jayco Rangers.

Cunningham is currently playing in the Queensland Basketball League with the Rockhampton Cyclones, averaging 21 points and 9.5 rebounds. She will join current Jayco Rangers, Kathleen Macleod and Steph Cumming for official preseason later in the year.

Courtesy of www.dandenongbasketball.com.au

Former 7-2 WNBA star Margo Dydek dies at 37 - by Eurobasket News
Former WNBA star Malgorzata Dydek (213-C-74), 37, died Friday, a week after suffering a heart attack.

Cathy Roberts, the operations manager for the Northside Wizards in the Queensland Basketball League, where Dydek was head coach, confirmed her death to The Associated Press.

The Poland-born Dydek, who was pregnant with her third child, suffered the heart attack May 19. She collapsed at her home in Brisbane and was put in a medically induced coma.

Roberts said that Dydek was at an early stage in her pregnancy and that her unborn child also died.

Dydek was the No. 1 pick in the 1998 WNBA draft by the Utah Starzz. She also played for San Antonio, Connecticut and Los Angeles.

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

She held the record for most blocks in a WNBA career, with 877 in 323 games, and led the league in blocks nine times, from 1998 to 2003 and again from 2005 to 2007.

WNBA President Laurel Richie, in a statement, said: 'The WNBA is deeply saddened by the passing of Malgorzata Dydek. She was a tremendous person, role model and athlete who touched the lives of her many fans and made an indelible mark on women's basketball around the world. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family.'

On Aug. 27, 2008, Dydek signed with the Los Angeles Sparks following time away from basketball with the birth of her first son in April 2008.

An entry on Dydek's Facebook page says she was born on April 28, 1974, in Warsaw to a 6-7 father and a 6-3 mother. She had two sisters, and her elder sister, Kashka, played for the Colorado Explosion of the now defunct ABL, and in Poland.

Tina Thompson, a former teammate of Dydek's on the Sparks, said on the WNBA's Twitter feed: 'My condolences to the family of Malgorzata Dydek, may she rest in peace!'

The Brisbane-based Wizards posted a statement on their website Friday.

'Always in our hearts Margo,' it said. 'With great sadness we acknowledge the passing of Malgorzata Dydek. Margo suffered a heart attack just over a week ago and passed away Friday 27th May, peacefully and surrounded by her family.

'You were a much-loved member of our community and we will miss you greatly. Our hearts go out to your family, David and your beautiful boys xx.'

She is survived by her husband, David, and two sons, David, 3, and Alex, seven months.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

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BELARUS - Women

Belarus stun Turkey in Linares - by Eurobasket News
Belarus - Turkey 74:59

Belarus cruised past Turkey at the start of international Ciudad de Linares tournament in Spain. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-C-87) and Tatsiana Likhtarovich (179-G/F-88, agency: LBM Management) came up with 11 points each to pace well-balanced Belarusian team to the victory. Belarus shocked Turkey early in the game. They went on a 28:10 run to leave the Turkish team far behind. Belarus maintained the advantage throughout the second stanza. They arrived at the interval up by 20 points 43:23. Turkey struggled to get any closer in the third period. They faced a massive 22-point deficit into the fourth frame. Turkey found their rhythm in the final stanza. They cut the distance but never seriously threatened the margin as Belarus breezed to the victory at the end. Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) provided 10 points, while Dureika accounted for 9 points for Belarus. Yasemin Horasan (187-F/C-83) and Birsel Vardarli (174-G-80) answered with 10 points each for Turkey. Nevin Nevlin (195-C-85, college: Stanford) delivered 8 points in the losing effort.

Belarus: Anastasiya Veremeenko 11, Tatsiana Likhtarovich 11, Yelena Leuchanka 10
Turkey: Yasemin Horasan 10, Birsel Vardarli 10, Nevin Nevlin 8

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CROATIA - Women

Spain tame Croatia at Linares Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Spain - Croatia 80:63

Spain victoriously opened Ciudad de Linares international tournament. The hosts held off Croatia tonight. Anna Cruz (173-PG-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) stepped up with 14 points to pace the winners.
Croatia tipped off the encounter with six straight points. The visitors maintained the lead throughout the bigger part of the quarter. Spain used a 6:0 run late in the period to surge ahead but Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) and Misura regained the advantage for Croatia 23:20 after ten minutes of action. The margin grew at 9-point mark at the start of the second term. Spain reacted with a 9:2 rally late in the quarter to draw things level. Aguilar capped the period with a three-pointer and the hosts grabbed a 40:39 advantage. Anna Cruz knocked down 8 points in the third term as Spain boosted the lead to 21 points 67:46. Croatia could not recover in the reminder of the contest and the home team cruised to the victory at the end. Alba Torrens (188-F-89) provided 13 points and 6 assists, while Cindy Lima (194-C-81, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 12 points in the win. Ana Lelas replied with 17 points for Croatia. Iva Sliskovic (194-F-84, college: S.Carolina) finished with 10 points and 6 rebounds in the loss.

Spain: Anna Cruz 14, Alba Torrens 13, Cindy Lima 12
Croatia: Ana Lelas 17, Iva Sliskovic 10

Lupa promotion inks the top Euroleague stealer Reid - by Zeljko Zule
Lupa promotion went into the local market for its newest player by signing the best stealer in Euroleague and second in assists Maurita Reid (173-G-85, college: Miami, FL). She arrives from Gospic CO, with whom she won Croatian Championship and Cup title and Adriatic League regular season. Reid averaged 17.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 3.8 steals in Euroleague and 13.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 3.0 steals in Adriatic League. Reid has signed a WNBA contract to play for Washington Mystics in the 2011 summer.

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

France roll past Czech Republic in exhibition clash - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic - France 60:74

France celebrated a confident victory over Czech Republic in test clash. Edwige Lawson-Wade (166-PG-79) knocked down 14 points to pace the French team.
France led by just a single point after ten minutes of action 17:16. Les Bleus maintained the advantage in the second quarter posting a 40:38 halftime lead. France stiffened defence in the third period. They limited the hosts to only 8 points in the frame opening an 11-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. France did not allow Czech Republic to get too close in the fourth stanza rolling to a comfortable win at the end. Emmeline Ndongue (191-C-83) provided 12 points, while Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) finished with 11 points in the victory. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) answered with 9 points for Czech Republic. Katerina Elhotova (180-G-89) provided 8 points in the loss.

Czech Republic: Eva Viteckova 9, Katerina Elhotova 8
France: Edwige Lawson-Wade 14, Emmeline Ndongue 12, Celine Dumerc 11

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DENMARK - Women

Finland U18 outscored Denmark U18 in Solna - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U18-Finland U18 57:75

Finland outscored Denmark in Solna at the Nordic Championship Women U18. An easy start allowed the Finnish side to celebrate 75:57 victory.
Finland erupted with 18-2 from the start and controlled the game until the end. The winners added 21-17 in the second period to enjoy 39:19 at the halftime. Moreover Finnish team won the third period 21-20 and then did not mind 15-18 in the last quarter. Finland looked better from the field goal including the three-pointers percentage (39% versus 9%). Denmark however had a better percentage from the free throw line, 67% versus 44%.
Annika Holopainen (186-F/C-93) top-scored for the winners with 25 points and 9 rebounds. Noora Korhonen (182-F-94) followed her with 23 points and Anette Juvonen (170-G-93) added 12. Maria Jespersen (179-F/G-94) ended up with 12 points in the losing case, while Elisabeth Hansen (175-G-93) netted 10.

Denmark U18: Maria Jespersen 12, Elisabeth Hansen 10,
Finland U18: Annika Holopainen 25+9 rebs, Noora Korhonen 23, Anette Juvonen 12

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16 - Women

Div.C Standings - by Eurobasket

Standings

Group A
1. Andorra		0-0
2. Malta		0-0
3. Wales		0-0
Group B
1. Cyprus		0-0
2. Gibraltar		0-0
3. Monaco		0-0

W-Standings - Div.A

Standings

Group A
1. Belgium		0-0
2. Poland		0-0
3. Slovakia		0-0
4. Sweden		0-0
Group B
1. Croatia		0-0
2. Czech Repub.		0-0
3. Greece		0-0
4. Russia		0-0
Group C
1. Spain		0-0
2. Finland		0-0
3. Hungary		0-0
4. Italy		0-0
Group D
1. France		0-0
2. Holland		0-0
3. Serbia		0-0
4. Turkey		0-0

Standings - Div.B - by Eurobasket

Standings Div.B

Group A
1. Latvia		0-0
2. Luxembourg		0-0
3. Portugal		0-0
4. Ukraine		0-0
Group B
1. Belarus		0-0
2. U.Kingdom		0-0
3. Estonia		0-0
4. Slovenia		0-0
Group C
1. Bulgaria		0-0
2. Israel		0-0
3. Lithuania		0-0
4. Romania		0-0
Group D
1. Denmark		0-0
2. Germany		0-0
3. Ireland		0-0
4. Switzerland		0-0

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FINLAND - Women

Sweden U16 celebrates the second straight win - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16-Finland U16 69:31

Sweden U16 celebrates the second straight win at the Nordic Championship Women. The hosts of the tournament overcame Finland U16 in Day 2 69:31.
Swedish team started with 18-4 in the first period and easily dominated the court. They added 17-12 in the second quarter to take 35:16 deficit at the halftime. In the third period Sweden produced a defensive 23-6 and then finished the game with 11-9 in the last stanza.
Sweden looked great in all the aspects of the game showing the better percentage from the field goal (40% versus 23%). They had the biggest lead of 38 points midway through the last quarter.
Emma Eriksson (169-G-90) stepped up with 16 points for 2-0 record. Moa Lundqvist and Julia Paulin followed her with 10 points apiece. Jenni Rantanen (186-C/F-91) answered with 8 points in the losing effort, while Ninni Salmi and Tuuli Menna (180-F-96) added 6 each.

Sweden U16: Emma Eriksson 16, Moa Lundqvist 10, Julia Paulin 10
Finland U16: Jenni Rantanen 8, Ninni Salmi 6, Tuuli Menna 6

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FRANCE - Women

Villeneuve d'Ascq add German International Breitreiner - by Eurobasket News
Villeneuve d'Ascq add German International Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) to their roster for the next season. The latter played in France two seasons ago when in 2009-2010 she appeared for Tarbes Gespe Bigorre (France-LFB). In Euroleague after 10 games her stats read 6.0ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 81.8%. In French League Anne averaged 7.9ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 83.3%. Last season Anne Breitreiner played for Club Atletico Faenza (Italy-A1, starting five) and showed 6.0ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.0spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 30.4%.
She recorded 14 points for her Italian team at the Regular Season Round 5. Umana Reyer lost to Faenza 68-70 as the Brazilian guard Adriana Moises Pinto stepped up with double-double 17 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and American forward Lauren Ervin (191-85, college: Arkansas) helped with 16 points and 9 rebounds.
Recently Germany and Netherlands played two friendly games over the weekend. Germany celebrated back-to-back victories. In the second game Germany looked more confident during the second game. Despite trailing by two points at the first break the German team went on a 21:6 run in the second stanza to ensure a 32:19 halftime lead. Germany did not loosen the grasp in the second half and celebrated a confident 65:46 victory. Romy Bar provided 18 points, while Anne Breitreiner added 12 points in the winning effort.

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GERMANY - Women

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NCAA1 - Women

NCAA approves hoops rules changes - by Eurobasket News
The NCAA has approved adding an arc three feet from the basket, inside which a defender cannot take a charge.

The organization said Thursday its Playing Rules Oversight Panel had approved several recommended rules changes for college basketball during a conference call Monday.

The women's 3-point line will move back a foot to 20 feet, 9 inches next season, the same distance the men have used since 2008-09. In both the men's and women's games, the terminology for fouls will be changed to match the NBA. Intentional fouls will now be called Flagrant 1 and flagrant fouls will be called Flagrant 2.

Women's teams will also test a 10-second half-court rule in exhibition games next season.

The men's and women's basketball rules committees recommended the changes earlier this month.

Courtesy of ESPN

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NORWAY - Women

Sweden destroy Norway at the Nordic Championship Women U18 opener - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18-Norway U18 92:31

Sweden destroy Norway at the Nordic Championship Women U18 opener. The home side celebrated 92:31 win to take the leading position from the very beginning.
Sweden easily opened the game with 22-10 in the first period and never looked behind. They erupted with 21-6 in the second frame to take 43:16 at the halftime. Moreover Sweden won the third quarter 26-10 and finished the game with 23-5.
Sweden showed 56% from the filed, while Norway had only 28%. The latter however looked better from the free throw line, 69% versus 58%.
Nathalie Fontaine (183-F-93) paced all the hosts with 14 points and Abigail Asoro (177-F-93) netted 13. Ulrica Holmqvist delivered 12, whilst Josefin Vesterberg (187-F-93) and Allis Nystrom (183-F-93) had 9 apiece. Sofie V Sofie Gronhaug (F) answered with 8 points in defeat and Stine Austgulen (177-G-94) scored 7.

'
Sweden U18: Nathalie Fontaine 14, Abigail Asoro 13, Ulrica Holmqvist 12, Josefin Vesterberg 9, Allis Nystrom 9
Norway U18: Sofie Gronhaug 8, Stine Austgulen 7

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POLAND - Women

Sharnee Zoll extends contract with CCC Polkowice - by Eurobasket News
CCC Polkowice secured the services of one their key players for the next season. CCC extended contract with Sharnee Zoll (170-G-86, college: Virginia). The 24-year-old guard joined the team at the start of the previous season. Sharnee Zoll averaged 8.8 points, 5.7 assists, 3.0 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game in PLKK. The guard earned Eurobasket.com All-Polish PLKK Honourable Mention. Previously Sharnee Zoll had stints with Sf. Gheorghe in Romania and Botasspor in Turkey. The guard also played for Los Angeles Sparks, Minnesota Lynx and Seattle Storm in the WNBA.

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SPAIN - Women

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SWEDEN - Women

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TURKEY - Women

Turkish lab that accused Taurasi gets ban - by Eurobasket News
The World Anti-Doping Agency has suspended accreditation of the laboratory that accused Diana Taurasi (182-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) of using a banned substance then later retracted the positive test results.

The Turkish Doping Control Center received a ban of undetermined length Tuesday, meaning it will be ineligible to process WADA-sanctioned tests while WADA reviews its case.

Last year, the lab said Taurasi had tested positive for the banned stimulant modafanil while playing professional basketball in Turkey. Several weeks later, the lab retracted the report and Taurasi was cleared of wrongdoing.

The former UConn star is returning to the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA, which begins play in June. She also has signed a contract to play again in Turkey later in the year and will be a strong candidate to make the U.S. roster for the London Olympics.

In an interview last week, Taurasi said she was in the preliminary stages of taking legal action against the lab, which also had been suspended for three months in 2009.

Courtesy of Yahoo

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UNITED KINGDOM - Women

GB Under 20 Women's squad announced - by Eurobasket News
British Basketball has invited nineteen Under 20 men's players to join the Standard Life GB Under 20 women in a combined camp in Colchester at the Braintree Campus this weekend.

The camp will be part of their preparation for the European Youth Championships taking place from mid-July. The Standard Life GB Under 20 men are in Division B for the competition and earlier this year they were drawn in Group C which will see them face Luxembourg, Czech Republic, Portugal, Finland and Norway when they take to the court in Sarajevo.

Colchester hosts the combined Under 20 Men's and Women's camp for the very first time. Head of Performance at British Basketball, Warwick Cann commented: 'Last year's first ever GB combined team camp was a great success which really helped the teams' performances at the European Championships.

'Colchester and the college at Braintree is a fantastic venue which is well supported by the Colchester Institute and will provide the teams with all they need to prepare for this summer.'
Since the Standard Life GB Under 20 Women entered their camp in Leigh, Manchester, on 27 May 2011 there have been six players released. The 14 players who will now join the Under 20 Men this weekend at the combined GB camp to continue their preparations are:

Becca Allison (Scotland)
Becky Brough (England)
Gemma Bullard (177-G-92) (England)
Renee E. Busch (174-G-92) (England)
Katrin Chiemeka (170-G-91) (England)
Ella Clark (190-F-92) (England)
Temitope Fagbenle (191-F-92) (England)
Dee Hayward (Scotland)
Jessica Hurd (182-F-92) (England)
Erin McGarrachan (180-G-92) (Scotland)
Josephine Salmon (170-G/F-91) (England)
Kristie Sheils (170-G-91) (England)
Eilidh Simpson (174-G-92) (England)
Kathryn Taylor (188-C-91) (Scotland)
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk

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USBA - Women

WUSBA seek former NCAA basketball players to coach in league - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga. (June 2, 2011)---The Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) today announced openings for Head Coaches, Dance Team Coaches and Assistant Coaches positions for the upcoming 2011 basketball season. The concentration of WUSBA teams is in the Southeast United States. The WUSBA currently has fifteen basketball teams split into four divisions, spread over eight southern states. The WUSBA owns and operates all teams. Each team operates independently of each other. Each team has an Event Manager assigned as team representative.

Former NCAA basketball players, college graduate assistants and international coaches are invited to submit resumes and biographies for consideration. 'We are in search of people who have a desire to develop and advance to potential head coaching jobs in the NCAA I, II and III division schools.'

Long time coach Terry Truax will oversee the selection process. He has been retained to conduct training and job placement. Truax has 45 years of experience in basketball. 'He's coached at Towson State University, the University of North Carolina, University of Maryland, just to name a few.' His longest tenure was with Towson State University for fourteen years. 'Our goal is to hire former NCAA basketball players and NCAA graduate assistants to work a full fall schedule; we can help them with their dreams of pounding the sidelines as a Division One coach', said Truax.

The WUSBA 2011basketball season runs from August 13, 2011 to November 13, 2011. Each team plays a twenty six game schedule, thirteen home and thirteen away. The league has a mid season All Star Game scheduled for the 1st week of October. The WUSBA Championship Playoff series begins November 6, 2011 with the Championship game on November 13, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. Team tryouts and camps begin August 13, 2011.

WUSBA president Duane Jenkins says, 'Announcing now gives us a prime opportunity for us to get to know our coaches. We want our fans to be able to become familiar with their head coach and quite simply, the coach will have ample time be able to select the players or dance team members of his or her choice'.

The league has developed a comprehensive package for the coaches. Head Coaches receive $650.00 per week. Assistant coaches receive $475.00 per week and Dance Team coaches receive $275.00 per week. Basketball Coaches receive a daily meal at Golden Corral and housing. As a bonus coaches receive compensation for sponsor speaking engagements. Women coaches are urged to apply for a position.

The league has begun receiving resumes for consideration. According to the league, each coach candidate should submit his or her resume as soon as possible for consideration. All candidates will receive a response. 'We expect a huge response and I suggest any candidate wishing to be considered should submit their resume no later than July 3, 2011', said WUSBA Executive Vice President Kenneth Green. 'We're very excited about the upcoming season. Some of our teams have a coaching staff in place already and for each team in need of a coach, this is a great opportunity for an aspiring individual who has the propensity to lead and succeed'. Resumes can be sent to southernbasketballassociation@yahoo.com.

Contact:
Duane Allen Jenkins- (404) 428-3411
Kenneth Green- (404) 547-6907

WUSBA to move basketball season to a fall schedule; No air conditioning in some gyms - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga. (May 31, 2011) ----The Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) announced today it will move its basketball season to the fall. The season will begin on August 27, 2011 and end on November 4, 2011. The final preparation for the new time frame has begun. The league has all the necessary preparations set to properly conduct a successful basketball season. The season will field fifteen teams to begin its inaugural campaign. 'We set out to deliver twenty basketball teams and to play this summer, however, with no air conditioning in some of our gyms, Raleigh hit hard by the tornado and scheduling conflicts in seven other gymnasiums with summer camps and minor league baseball, the obstacles made it impossible to play ball over this summer, said WUSBA vice president Kenneth Green.

'We had originally planned to begin this summer, however when we discovered that four of our venues did not have central air conditioning, we had no choice. Everyone associated with the Women's United States Basketball Association has the basketball players safety first and foremost on their minds. We will accomplish all that is necessary to maintain the safe environment for our teams. We are truly grateful to be accepted in these great cities and towns, said Duane Allen Jenkins WUSBA president and C.E.O. ' We will honor all coaches and player agreements for the new schedule'.

'In the beginning, I stated that the WUSBA would assist female basketball players to continue their careers. We have created a system that will bring our league right underneath the WNBA. We plan to utilize former WNBA players as coaches and league staff. We will begin our inaugural season with 15 teams that are united in their dedication to bring top quality basketball to our team cities. The teams, coaches and players will share a common objective and a commitment to our fans' satisfaction; we will work together as community partners with our team cities.'

The following is the final list of teams for the WUSBA 2011 basketball season:

The Piedmont Division consists of the Charlotte Blue Wave, the Columbia Breeze, Winston Salem Cardinals and the Augusta Raging River

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

The Atlantic Division has the Virginia Colonials, the Jacksonville Surf, the Savannah Seahawks and the Charleston Cadets

The Southern Division fields the Atlanta Platinum, the Macon Storm and the Birmingham Starz

'We had planned to start with twenty teams to begin with, however we could not lock down arenas in Tallahassee, Nashville, Lexington, Montgomery, Norfolk, and Raleigh just took a direct hit from that devastating tornado, so we go with fifteen teams.'

'We do not own any of these venues such as we are at the mercy of the school or university. When I discovered that four of our gymnasiums had no central air, we had to make a decision. Playing in the fall eliminates this issue. We are now arranging venue agreements to complete everything it takes to run a basketball league in the pursuit of our original goals.

We did even think to ask if these gymnasiums had central AC. I just assumed that they did, when I found out that the C.E. Gaines Center at Winston Salem State University did not have AC, I called all of the other venues and I was informed that four did not have central AC in the gym Virginia Union and Norcross High School does not have central AC.

'As I stand before you today, it is my pleasure to announce our march to the opening day of our 2011 basketball season; it is our goal to conduct proper preparation for the season.

Accordingly, I am pleased to announce the final formation of the for mentioned teams that will compete in the 2011 Women's United States Basketball Association basketball season. We will conduct our player acquisition in a manner consistent with major professional women's basketball.'

'We will present a great competitive product that will be entertaining to our fans, our team cities and the profession of basketball as a whole. We are extremely excited about future of our league and our 14 teams. We now have the time to do it right and I stand here today to assure that everything will be ready for our 2011 basketball season.'

'We'll see you, your family and your friends courtside in August 2011.'

'The Women's United States Basketball Association was formed in late March 2010, but the WUSBA concept was originally founded in July 2007. Through the months and years, we have faced a variety of challenges -- some of which seemed insurmountable at the time. The WUSBA will persevere through the tough economic adversities our country has faced and the WUSBA will persevere through this one, as well -- to emerge with a framework for the future, one that everyone will be proud to be associated with -- where our players and coaches have an opportunity to achieve their goals.'

WUSBA will hold tryouts on August 13, 2011; fifteen teams will play in inaugural basketball season - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga. (June 2, 2011) ---The Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) will conduct local tryouts in each team city on August 13, 2011. The league will offer local basketball players an opportunity to try out for each team. According to the league, any player who meets league qualifications will be placed on the local teams practice roster. 'We are looking for the diamond in the ruff, said league president Duane Allen Jenkins. 'Most importantly, we would like to give these local players a chance to represent their town.' The WUSBA will begin its inaugural basketball season with fourteen teams spread over eight southern states. According to the league, the WUSBA local tryouts are open to all qualified basketball players. The league was to begin this summer; however, a decision was made by the league to play a fall schedule. Playing in the fall gives us a better audience of fans, now we don't have to compete with families on vacation and other summer events. said Jenkins. ' And we will not require air conditiong in the gyms for the teams and fans. ' The WUSBA owns and is the primary operator of all teams. Each team does operate independently of each other. The league has assigned an Event Manager as team representative for the local city.

The WUSBA 2011 new basketball season begins with the regular season on August 27, 2011 to November 4,, 2011. Each team plays a twenty six game schedule, thirteen home and thirteen away. The league has an All Star Game scheduled for the first weekend in October, 2011. The WUSBA Championship Playoff series begins November 6, 2011 and concludes with the Championship game on November 13, 2011 in Macon, Georgia. The championship game will be held at the Macon Centre Plex and Coliseum.

The following teams will start the new season:

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

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

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

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

The WUSBA will not charge a fee to players for the tryouts. 'We have never had these fees as a part of our revenue stream; we encourage the huddled masses to come to the tryout'. The league requires each applicant submit a resume to the Women's United States Basketball Association or WUSBA. 'We do require all basketball players to have a minimum of two years collegiate playing experience'. Tryouts will be held to a 20 player limit set in place for all locations. Qualified basketball players will be selected to make the roster of the local WUSBA team. Player camps will begin on August 14, 2011 in each team city.

Jenkins says, 'Announcing local tryouts gives us a prime opportunity for us to look closely at local talent and make the selection of players easy for our teams. We want our fans to be able to become familiar with the players and coaches and quite simply, the players and coaches will have ample time for players to select a team of his choice'.

The league has developed a comprehensive package for the coaches. Players will now be paid $350.00 per week. Players also receive housing and a daily meal at Golden Corral Buffet Restaurant. As a bonus, players will receive compensation for sponsor speaking engagements and sponsorship sales.

According to the league, each player will require to complete all applicable form during the registration period that held the morning of the tryouts. 'We expect a huge response and each tryout is limited to 20 applicants, I suggest any candidate wishing to be considered should arrive at the try out location on time and ready to perform', said WUSBA Executive Vice President Kenneth Green. 'We're very excited about the upcoming season. None of our teams have players in place and this is a great opportunity for an aspiring individual who has the propensity to succeed'. The league website is now under construction and will be available in the very near future. Interested basketball players should submit their resumes or tryout request to southernbasketballassociation@yahoo.com .

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WNBA - Women

Shock cut two; one more will be trimmed - by Eurobasket News
The Tulsa Shock has cut forward Rashanda McCants and guard Darxia Morris (5'8''-G-89, agency: Merit Sports, college: UCLA) from its roster, the team announced Wednesday afternoon.

McCants was among six Shock players who returned from last season. She was traded from Minnesota last July and averaged 5.8 points in six games.

A rookie out of UCLA, Morris was trying to make the team after attending training camp in April. She scored two points in Sunday's 76-70 exhibition loss at Seattle.

Tulsa's roster has 12 players. It must be trimmed to 11 by Saturday, when the Shock opens its season at 7 p.m. at San Antonio.

Courtesy of www.tulsaworld.com

Sky waive forward Christon - by Eurobasket News
Chicago Sky forward Shameka Christon (6'1''-G/F-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Arkansas), who earlier this week was ruled out for at least eight weeks with a knee injury, has been waived, the team announced Thursday

Christon averaged 8.5 points and 2.4 rebounds in 10 games in 2010 after being acquired in a trade with the New York Liberty before an eye injury forced her to miss the rest of the season.

It's an unfortunate set of circumstances, yet it's the nature and reality of sports, Sky coach and general manager Pokey Chatman said in a statement.

The Sky open their season Friday at Indiana.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com

6-year WNBA veteran F/C Moore waived by Fever - by Eurobasket News
Six-year WNBA veteran Jessica Moore (6'3''-C-82, college: Connecticut) has been waived by the Indiana Fever, three days before opening its 12th season on Saturday against the Chicago Sky, according to a news release from the team.

Moore, a 6-3 forward/center, played two seasons in Indiana after beginning her career with the Charlotte Sting and Los Angeles Sparks. She was an integral part of the Fevers run to the 2009 WNBA Finals, the release said.

Since her arrival in Indianapolis three games into the 2009 season, Moore played in 64 of the clubs 65 games. She averaged 3.9 points and 2.6 rebounds per game for the Fever. A WNBA playoff participant in six straight seasons and seven times since 2002, the Fever tips off against the Sky at 7 p.m.

Courtesy of www.indystar.com

Chicago Sky waives Linda Frolich - by Eurobasket News
The Chicago Sky announced that forward Linda Frohlich (6'2''-F/C-79, agency: LBM Management, college: UNLV) has been waived from the team. The roster now stands at 12 players.

Frolich, a product of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, signed with the Sky as a free agent on April 22, 2011.

Chicago plays starts the regular season in Indiana on Saturday, June 4. The team's home opener is set for Friday, June 10 at 7:30 p.m. at Allstate Arena versus the Connecticut Sun.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Sun cut WNBA roster down to 11 - by Eurobasket News
The Connecticut Sun waived Boston College alumna Stefanie Murphy (6'4''-F, college: Boston Coll.) to reach the WNBA roster minimum of 11 players.

Murphy, who was not drafted this year. Signed a training camp contract with the team. She had four points and three rebounds in 25 minutes between two preseason games with the Sun.

Connecticuts regular season begins Saturday when it hosts the Washington Mystics at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit www.connecticutsun.com.

Courtesy of www.norwichbulletin.com

Storm hits roster deadline with a choice to make - by Eurobasket News
The Storm will finalize its roster Thursday, cutting either point guard Sharnee Zoll (5'7''-G-86, college: Virginia) or rookie center Krystal Thomas (6'5''-C-89, college: Duke) to reach the league-required 11-player roster.

WNBA teams have until 2 p.m. EDT to make final decisions. Due to the time occurring when Seattle begins practice, coach Brian Agler, who is also director of player personnel, said he'll make his choice early.

Knowing her fate is being decided, Zoll posted on Twitter that she was 'praying about what will happen' Wednesday night.

'Part of it has to do with the immediate health of our team, what our depth is,' Agler said. 'Then I think both of them bring special things to the table. One's a true point guard and the other one's a true five. We sort of need depth in both areas.'

The Storm has injuries along the perimeter but historically the team has needed depth inside, further complicating the choice. The main snag is the timing of the deadline. Players must wait 48 hours to clear the waiver wire and sign with another team. Lingering is not an option.

The WNBA Board of Governors ended the league's two-player injured reserve for the 2009 season. While that move increased parity and cut expenses, it crimped player development and depth.

'We sort of have to use the leagues in Europe as our developmental league now instead of having a couple extra players you can work with,' Agler said.

Courtesy of http://seattletimes.nwsource.com

Lindsay Wisdom-Hylton traded to Chicago Sky for 2012 second round pick - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Sparks have traded forward Lindsay Wisdom-Hylton (6'2''-F/C-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Purdue) to the Chicago Sky in exchange for a second round pick in the 2012 WNBA Draft, Sparks General Manager Penny Toler announced Wednesday.

'We appreciate Lindsay's contributions to the Sparks over the past two seasons and wish her well as she returns to her hometown of Chicago,' Toler said.

The 6'2' native of Naperville, Ill., averaged 3.5 points and 2.5 rebounds in 61 career regular season games with the Sparks after being drafted in the first round, 13th overall in 2009. Coincidentally, her career high of 16 points were scored during an Aug. 4, 2010 victory over Chicago.

With the acquisition of the Sky's second round selection, Los Angeles now holds five picks in the 2012 WNBA Draft. In February, the Sparks received a second round choice from the Tulsa Shock in exchange for guard Andrea Riley.

The Sparks roster currently stands at 12 players, which must be trimmed to 11 by 11 a.m. PT on Thursday.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Seattle thinking repeat as WNBA season begins - by Eurobasket News
Along with being a two-time WNBA champion and recognition as one of the best women's players in the world, something else changed for Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) in the offseason.

She grew an inch.

Actually, Jackson says she's always been 6 feet 6. Now at age 30, she finally feels comfortable admitting she's really 6-6 and not 6-5 as was always listednot that she needed the extra inch.

'I've been 6-foot-6 my whole life. I tried to shorten me. I'm a good 6-6. My mum would always say to me, 'Say 6-6,' I would say, 'Nope.'' Jackson said. 'I didn't want to be 6-6. I thought I was freakishly tall enough. I'm definitely 6-foot-6 and have been since I was a good 17 years old.'

Jackson is back for her 11th season playing in the U.S., but no longer carrying the stigma of playing for possibly the most talented team in the WNBA that continually failed when the playoffs arrived.

That label departed last September when Seattle swept the Atlanta Dream in three games to win the Storm's second WNBA title. When Seattle won its first title in 2004, with Jackson and Sue Bird still in the early stages of their professional careers, it was expected that Seattle would become a mainstay among the league's elite.

It took a half-dozen years, but Seattle finally reached that pinnacle again. And unlike that first time when the Storm overhauled much of its roster after title No. 1, it's many of the same faces looking to become the league's first back-to-back champs since the Los Angeles Sparks in 2000 and 2001.

'A lot of teams that are trying to repeat can get caught up in that. You can get caught up in 'Oh, what's going to happen the first time we lose at home,' if it happens. Is it the end of the world? No,' Bird said. 'There have been plenty of championship teams that have lost at home. I can go down the list of things we accomplished last year .... The beauty of this team, you saw it last year, we're very mature, in part because of our age, but also the experiences we've all had individually and also as a team. With that does come some sense of maturity.'

That doesn't mean coach Brian Agler didn't do some tweaking in the offseason. Most notably, he pulled together a three-team trade to get Katie Smith and bring Seattle one of the most versatile veterans in the league.

Smith and Agler first were together in the American Basketball League in the late 1990s in Columbus, where Smith was a college star at Ohio State. It took help from Washington and Indiana, but the duo are again together with Smith looking for the third title of her WNBA career.

'She still has that same passion to compete and wants to win. Now, it's a little different. You don't have such a heavy load. We have so many weapons that are out there,' Seattle forward Swin Cash said. 'She can come do her thing and if you forget, she's going to burn you for 20. I think that's what makes people scared about this team, is having her here.'

While Jackson is always the focal point, Bird, Cash and Smith will get plenty of attention as well and be important in carrying at least some of the load. So, too, is the continued improvement of guard Tanisha Wright and forward Camille Little, especially with the loss of Svetlana Abrosimova and Jana Vesla.

There's also a bit of urgency, knowing that next year Jackson will not be around for more than half the season as she trains with the Australian national team in the hopes of finally capturing Olympic gold. Bird is also likely to face Olympic responsibilities in 2012.

'We had a lot of lessons last year. Obviously, we saw that if we work together and stick to the game plan, and everyone plays their role within our system, it works, and it can produce a championship at the end,' Cash said. 'Hopefully, we're individually a little bit better and that will translate into collectively as a team. The core is still here, but five, six players don't make up a team. We need everyone to fill in those voids. ... We have the people here who can do that.'

Courtesy of www.pasadenastarnews.com