EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/5/2011

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Men News

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  ARGENTINA   


Ruben Wolkowyski will play for La Union - by Eurobasket News
La Union Formosa brought in Ruben Wolkowyski (207-C-73). The experienced centre signed a one-year deal with Liga A team. Ruben Wolkowyski played for Libertad Sunchales during the last two seasons. Last season the centre tallied 9.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.0 block per Liga Sudamericana game. In Liga A his stats read 11.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.5 steals per appearance. Ruben Wolkowyski earned Liga A Honourable Mention from Latinbasket.com. He also participated at Liga A All-Star Game. The centre used to play in NBA, Russia, Spain, Greece, Poland, Uruguay and Puerto Rico. Ruben Wolkowyski played for Argentina at Olympic Games in 1996, Goodwill Games in 1998 and 2002 and 2006 World Championships. He was named Liga A Player of the Year back in 2000.


Estudiantes add Jerome Meyinsse - by Eurobasket News
Estudiantes de Bahia bolstered their roster. They added Jerome Meyinsse (206-F/C-88, college: Virginia) to the squad. The 22-year-old centre played for Club 9 de Julio Rio Tercero in the previous season. Jerome Meyinsse averaged 16.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game in Liga A. It was the first pro season for the centre. Jerome Meyinsse graduated from the University of Virginia. The centre notched 6.5 points and 4.1 rebounds per game in his senior season with the Cavaliers. Jerome Meyinsse was named All-ACC Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 2010. Meyinsse also received Latinbasket.com All-Argentinean Liga A Honourable Mention in 2011. Estudiantes have already confirmed Pepe Sanchez (193-G-77, college: Temple) and Juan Espil (194-G-68) for the next season.


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  ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Peter Schomers replaces Baldwin as Lebanon's NT coach!! - by Rabih Khoury
Finally the Lebanese Basketball Federation signed with German coach Peter Schomers to take on the Lebanese NT for the Asian Cup in September 2011... Both sides agreed on terms on saturday and Shomers will be the head coach for the next 4 months. Schomers is a known personality to the Lebanese public where he lead Hoops two seasons ago to the Final 4 and a good participation in the WABA 2010 competition.He coached Al Kuwait of Kuwait last season but failed to lead them to their target which was to win the Title.
He will have two upcoming tests with the WABA Championships in Iraq and the King Abdallah International Tournament in July in Amman.
National Team practices will start on Tuesday in a 2 practice per day program.

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  ASIAN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Mahram and Riyadi enter championship game - by Eurobasket News
SEMIFINAL
Mahram - Smart Gilas 80-77
Mahram became the first Asia Club Championship finalists. They overcame Smart Gilas in a dramatic clash in front of a sell-out crowd at the Philsports Arena. Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) stepped up for two-time defending champions scoring 19 points including three crucial free throws late in regulation. The lead changed hands throughout the opening frame before Joseph Evans Casio (177-PG-86) capped it with a three-pointer giving Smart Gilas a 21:20 lead. Mahram erased the deficit and spurred in front late in the second quarter. Chris Williams ensured a 45:39 lead for Mahram heading into the dressing room. The margin grew at 7-point mark after a three-pointer from Cheikh Samb (215-C-84). But Marcio Lassiter and Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) helped Smart Gilas deny the deficit. Joseph Evans Casio crowned the third quarter with another treble as the teams were tied at 62. Mahram quickly returned a 6-point advantage in the final term. Chris Williams made it 77:69 with under four minutes to go. The defending champions led by 7 points with under a minute to go but Tiu first converted a layup and then hit a three-pointer following a steal from Marcio Lassiter. Samad Nikkhah knocked down just one free throw, while Joseph Evans Casio accounted for two points to drag Smart Gilas within one 77:78 with 11 seconds to go. Samad Nikkhah stepped on the line once again and went deadly to boost the gap to three points. Mark Barroca and Marcio Lassiter had chances to save the game for Smart Gilas but missed their attempts from beyond the arc. Mahdi Kamrani (181-G-82) and Cheikh Samb accounted for 17 points each in the win. Samb added 13 rebounds to his tally. Marcus Douthit responded with 25 points and 13 rebounds for Smart Gilas. Joseph Evans Casio had 21 points in the loss.

Al Riyadi - Al Rayyan 71-52
Riyadi joined Mahram in the championship game at Asia Club Championship. The Lebanese powerhouse left no chance for Rayyan of Qatar in todays second semifinal clash. Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) stepped up with 25 points and 12 rebounds to pace Riyadi. Rayyan will take on Smart Gilas in the Bronze medals game tomorrow. Riyadi opened the game with 13 points in a row to set the tone. They recorded a 19:8 lead after ten minutes of action. The margin kept on growing throughout the second frame. Riyadi arrived at halftime up by 17 points 38:21. Rayyan struggled to get any closer in the third term. Riyadi dominated in every facet of the game entering the final term up by as many as 18 points 53:35. Riyadi did not loosen the grip and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) delivered 18 points, while Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) added 6 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Targuy Ngombo (198-F-89, agency: Court Side) answered with 15 points for Rayyan. Yasseen Musa (204-F-80) accounted for 13 points in the losing effort.

5-8 place
Al Ittihad - Jalaa 77-85
Jalaa recorded victory over Ittihad in the 5-8 place playoffs at Asia Club Championship. Wissam Yaqqub (212-C-82) scored 17 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to pace the winners. Jalaa will now take on the winners of Duhok vs. ASU battle for the fifth overall position in the tournament. Ittihad surged ahead early in the encounter but Wissam Yaqqub and Michel Maadanly provided Jalaa with an 18:16 lead after ten minutes. Michel Maadanly and Wissam Yaqqub teamed up to stretch the gap to 10 points midway through the second frame. However Ittihad crowned the first half with a 7:2 run to get closer. Jalaa took over in the third term. The Syrian team dominated and kept Ittihad at bay. They recorded a 69:59 lead with one quarter remaining. Sari Papazian (194-G/F-82) gave Jalaa a 12-point cushion early in the final term. Ali Al Maghribi (200-F-75) dragged Ittihad within six points with under two minutes to go. But Jamaal Miller (187-G-82, agency: Court Side, college: Green River CC) and Sari Papazian came up with timely points late in the encounter to seal the victory. Sari Papazian and Marcelle Yaqqub (206-C-77) came up with 16 points each, while Jamaal Miller finished with 13 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds for Jalaa. Vladislav Dragajlovic (207-C-79, agency: Beo Basket) and Ali Al Maghribi responded with 16 points each for Ittihad. Darren Keelly (195-G-78, college: Texas) had 15 points in the loss.

Duhok - ASU 90-98
Late surge propelled ASU past Duhok in the classification round of Asia Club Championship. ASU will now take on Jalaa for the fifth overall position. Duhok will wrap up their campaign against Ittihad. Islam Abbaas (201-C-80) notched 32 points and 14 rebounds to carry ASU past Duhok who played without Chudney Gray. ASU opened the game with 11 unanswered points to surge ahead. The Jordanian side scored eagerly in the opening frame and recorded a 30:17 advantage after ten minutes. Duhok used a 20:6 run midway through the second frame to erase the deficit. ASU though gained back the lead late in the half and posted a 50:43 lead at the interval. Duhok went on a 19:3 run early in the third term and secured a 5-point advantage. They maintained the advantage and entered the final term up by 2 points 69:67. But Wesam Al Sous, Islam Abbaas and Osama Daghlas (199-G-79, college: Midwestern St.) pulled ASU in front 85:81 midway through the final stanza. Islam Abbaas and Zaid Abbas boosted the margin to 9 points with under three minutes to go. Duhok failed to recover in the dying minutes and had to surrender at the end. Osama Daghlas notched 17 points and 12 assists, while Enver Soobzokov (198-G/F-78, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) provided 14 points in the winning effort. Chester Giles (211-F/C-85, college: Oregon St.) replied with 24 points and 10 rebounds for Duhok. Qutaiba Al-Doori (198-F-80) finished with 19 points in the loss.

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Chris WILLIAMS
  USA
  (199-F/G-80)
  Avg: 25
 1. Williams, Mahram25.0 
 2. Fields, Al Shabab24.8 
 3. Ayer, KL Dragons22.3 
 4. Giles, Duhok20.5 
 5. Dragajlovic, Al It.20.5 
 6. Leslie, Al Rayyan20.0 
 7. Keely, Al Ittihad19.7 
 8. Watkins, ASU19.2 
 9. Ismail, Al Riyadi18.0 
 10. Douthit, Smart Gi.17.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chester GILES
  USA
  (211-F/C-85)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Giles, Duhok13.7 
 2. Dragajlovic, Al It.12.7 
 3. Ayer, KL Dragons11.8 
 4. Douthit, Smart Gil.11.3 
 5. Watkins, ASU10.2 
 6. Ismail, Al Riyadi9.6 
 7. Woods, Al Riyadi9.6 
 8. Ngombo, Al Rayyan9.3 
 9. Samb, Mahram8.8 
 10. Fields, Al Shabab8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Osama DAGHLAS
  (199-G-79)
  Avg: 8.5
 1. Daghlas, ASU8.5 
 2. Casio, Smart Gilas6.0 
 3. Keely, Al Ittihad5.0 
 4. Guganeswaran, KL D.4.5 
 5. Nikkhah, Mahram4.5 
 6. Al-Juboori, Duhok4.5 
 7. Tiu John, Smart G.4.5 
 8. Ismail, Al Riyadi4.4 
 9. Al-Doori, Duhok4.2 
 10. Miller, Jalaa4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Hamed AFAGH
  (190-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Afagh, Mahram2.5 
 2. Al-Doori, Duhok1.7 
 3. Watkins, ASU1.6 
 4. Fields, Al Shabab1.3 
 5. Giles, Duhok1.3 
 6. Douthit, Smart Gil.1.2 
 7. Casio, Smart Gilas1.2 
 8. Williams, Mahram1.2 
 9. Miller, Jalaa1.2 
 10. Hamad, Duhok1.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  USA
  (218-C-78)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Woods, Al Riyadi3.8 
 2. Samb, Mahram3.2 
 3. Ayer, KL Dragons1.8 
 4. Giles, Duhok1.7 
 5. Douthit, Smart Gil.1.3 
 6. Mahdi, Duhok1.3 
 7. Fakhreddine, Al Ri.1.3 
 8. Yaqqub, Jalaa1.2 
 9. Walker, Jalaa1.2 
 10. Ismail, Al Riyadi1.0 


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  AUSTRALIA   


SBL: Harrelson helps Cougars claw East Perth (Friday Night Wrap) - by Eurobasket News
American guard Ty Harrelson (193-G-80, college: Wayland Baptist) has led Cockburn Cougars to a vital 116-91 victory against East Perth Eagles in the men's State Basketball League.

Harrelson had 36 points, six assists and five steals to help second-placed Cockburn win for the third time from four games and end East Perth's two-game winning streak.

The 30-year-old made 12 of his 19 field goal attempts and five of eight three-point shots to ensure the Cougars would finish the round in the top two after winning their 12th game of the season.

Harrelson upstaged another impressive performance from Eagles and Perth Wildcats guard Drew Williamson (194-G-83, college: Metro St.), who had 22 points and four steals, as East Perth's finals hopes suffered a major blow.

The Cougars trailed by 11 late in the first quarter but outscored the Eagles 67-41 over the next two periods to ensure a comfortable victory.

Stanley Ocitti (203-F/C-80, college: Binghamton) (24 points and 15 rebounds) played a key role for the Cougars, who dominated the rebound count 57-38 and shot an impressive 48 per cent from three-point range, while Tom Jervis had 22 points for the Eagles, who remained in ninth spot despite slumping to their ninth loss from 15 games.

Earlier, Cockburn's women moved a step closer to a top four finish with a 63-53 win over the Eagles.

The fifth-placed Cougars' third straight win and fifth victory from six home games this season saw them move level with fourth-placed Wanneroo with a 9-5 record.

Cockburn, which won just six games all of last season and finished 10th, continued its massive improvement as Emma Pass (18 points and 14 rebounds) led it to victory.

Kate Fielding had 16 points in her 200th SBL game, but it wasn't enough for the sixth-placed Eagles to avoid their second defeat from their past three games.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL



Cockburn clips Eagles' wings - by Eurobasket News
The Cockburn Cougars have had a successful start to the long weekend with a hard-fought 25-point win against the Australian Central East Perth Eagles at Wally Hagan Stadium.

After an evenly-matched first quarter, Cockburn turned the game around to beat the Eagles 116-91, a result which consolidated their place in the top two and dealt a major blow to East Perth's finals hopes.

The Eagles, who had won their previous two games, came out strong from the outset and despite placing ninth on the ladder, were up 33-27 on the second-placed Cougars at quarter time.

East Perth centre Tom Jervis and Wildcats guard Drew Williamson (194-G-83, college: Metro St.) both added to the pressure placed on the Cockburn side, scoring 22 points each.

However, the second quarter saw the Cougars fight back and overpower the East Perth defence, with the Eagles big man matched by Cockburn forward Stanley Ocitti.

Ocitti went on to take 10 field goals and two three-pointers on his way to 24 points, outscored only by fellow import Ty Harrelson, who notched up 36 points for the winning side.

Cougars coach Stephen Charlton said he was pleased with the win and said his side would have to keep it up for Saturday's match against third-placed Wanneroo Wolves.

The Wolves are in third place so its going to be another tough game, but the boys are looking good...theyll need an early night tonight so well be ready to play in Wanneroo [on Saturday], he said.Article by Hannah Jenkins at Wally Hagan Stadium
Courtesy of: SBL



Standings - ABA
ABA Standings
Big V
 1. Waverley F. 9-2 
 2. Eltham W. 9-3 
 3. Ringwood H. 7-5 
 4. Bulleen B. 7-5 
 5. Sherbrooke S. 7-6 
 6. Hume City 6-7 
 7. Melbourne 3-11 
 8. Diamond V.E. 2-11 
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 


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


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  BELARUS   


Belarus edge Latvia in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U19 - Belarus U20 57:65

Belarus U20 celebrated the win over Latvian U19 counterparts in the first game of friendly series in Riga. Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) scored 20 points to pace the visitors.
Latvia ensured the better start to the game. The hosts stayed in charge and recorded a 14:12 lead after ten minutes. But Belarus turned things around in the second frame. They outgunned Latvia 23:9 in the second period to post a 35:23 halftime lead. Latvian U19 selection tried to erase the deficit in the third term. They narrowed the deficit at 10-point mark with one quarter to go. Latvia got even closer in the final stanza. The hosts trailed by just six points 49:55 but Belarus stayed calm in the dying minutes and earned the victory at the end. Valientin Ihnatchyk (192-G-91) nailed 13 points, while Alieksei Kachan (187-G-91) added 12 points for the winners. Andrejs Grazulis (198-F-93) accounted for 12 points for Latvia. Rihards Zebergs (186-F-92) provided 9 points, while Edvards Bagatskis finished with 7 in the loss.

Latvia U19: Andrejs Grazulis 12, Rihards Zebergs 9, Edvards Bagatskis 7
Belarus U20: Vitali Liutych 20, Valientin Ihnatchyk 13, Alieksei Kachan 12


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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, Antwerp16.0 
 3. Freeman, Verviers.15.9 
 4. Mallet, Charleroi15.7 
 5. Lojeski, Oostende15.3 
 6. Waters, Verviers.15.0 
 7. Miller, Leuven14.7 
 8. Taylor, M.Hainaut14.7 
 9. Copeland, Aalstar14.6 
 10. Hilliard, Aalstar14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Rashaun FREEMAN
  Verviers.
  (206-C/F-84)
  Avg: 8
 1. Freeman, Verviers.8.0 
 2. Young, Aalstar7.8 
 3. Stipanovic, Liege7.4 
 4. Randle, Gent7.3 
 5. Hilliard, Aalstar7.3 
 6. Gay, Verviers-Pep.6.4 
 7. Brown, Antwerp6.4 
 8. Jackson, Verviers.6.3 
 9. Tofi, Leuven6.0 
 10. Copeland, Aalstar5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Darrel MITCHELL
  Oostende
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 4
 1. Mitchell, Oostende4.0 
 2. Dagunduro, Leuven3.6 
 3. Hatten, M.Hainaut3.6 
 4. Waters, Verviers.3.4 
 5. Black, Antwerp2.9 
 6. Bosco, Gent2.9 
 7. Moors, Antwerp2.8 
 8. Burrell, Aalstar2.7 
 9. Miller, Leuven2.5 
 10. Jenkins, Liege2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Michael JENKINS
  Liege
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Jenkins, Liege2.8 
 2. Hatten, M.Hainaut2.3 
 3. Wilson, Antwerp2.2 
 4. Dagunduro, Leuven2.1 
 5. Mallet, Charleroi2.1 
 6. Mitchell, Oostende1.7 
 7. Biggs, Antwerp1.7 
 8. McCauley, M.Hai.1.6 
 9. Taylor, M.Hainaut1.6 
 10. Wright, Charleroi1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Mejri, Antwerp1.6 
 2. Riddick, Charleroi1.6 
 3. Young, Aalstar0.9 
 4. Johnson, Aalstar0.9 
 5. Randle, Gent0.8 
 6. Van Den Spie., Oos.0.7 
 7. Tofi, Leuven0.6 
 8. Wilson, Antwerp0.6 
 9. Nivins, M.Hainaut0.5 
 10. Pelle, Oostende0.5 


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  BOSNIA   


A1: Triland champion, Elnis Prasovic MVP - by Sead Buljina
B.C. 'Triland' from Sarajevo has won the third and decisive game in the Playoff against Vogosca 108:90. Vogosca proved to be a tough opponent by handing Triland its only loss of the season in the second game of the final series. Although undefeated in the regular season, Triland's overall success depended on one final game. Led by the league MVP, Elnis Prasovic (203-SF-84), Triland beat a solid Vogosca team. Prasovic recorded 26 pts, 15 rebs, 5 asts and 3 blocked shots. The MVP was off to a fast start scoring 19 of his 26 points in the first half. He brought crowd on its feet with a couple of thunderous dunks. Prasovic had big help from Esmir Guzonjic (24pts, 10rbs), Muris Memic (16pts), Ermin Tarcin (18pts, 12 rbs), Davor Jerkic (20 pts) and Aldin Dzaferovic (10 pts, 7 asts).

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  BRAZIL   


Paulistano add Eddy and Renato Carbonari - by Paulo Freire
After a year of many difficulties that a young team can have in a pro league, the Paulistano basketaball team has add two new pieces that will surely improve their level.

Head coach Gustavo De Conti who will be in his second years a pro head coach, after been working a lot with the Brazilian National Team under-17 and as an assistent coach for many other NT of Brazil. De Conti now will have a new to-go guy and a more experience big man, two pices that definelly was missing in the last NBB.

One of the prominent young playes of latest NBB edition the swingman Eddy Carvalho (194-G/F-87, agency: Garra Sports Marketing) former Vitoria team, got his transfer to the Club Athletico Paulistano (SP). The player is considered the greatest revelation of Espirito Santo State basketball in recent years, he signed a two years contract with the club from Sao Paulo State.

- I'm very motivated to be with one of the most traditional clubs as far as training good prospect athletes in the country. I am very pleased to be part of a long-term project aimed at designing young athletes for the national team, since wear the yellow jersey of Brazil is one of my goals. And hopefully I want to add value to the team dedicating myself to the maximum that the coach Gustavo De Conti set. I'm sure it'll be a strong team, because the team has already excellent players like Felipe and Betinho - Eddy said.

Eddy is 24 years old and 1.94 tall, has averaged 13.7 points per game, 2.7 rebounds, 1.0 assists, and spent 27 minutes on court per game in this NBB.

To play near the basket, the Paulistano have agreed terms with Renato Carbonari (204-F/C-87) who have been playing for Bauru over the last few years. Renato has not been used much this season in Bauru, he average 2.7 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 0.2 appg in only 7.6 minutes on the floor on the NBB, he was a back up center of american Jeff Agba, and saw his minutes drop when his coach decided to used his PF Douglas Nunes on the center position as part of the rotation of the Bauru team. Perhaps the lack of minutes on the court has been one reason for the player breaking his contract with Bauru and ask for a trasnsfer for Paulistano. Renato is a big man that can shoot the ball well, that will definilly be a good thing for Paulistano now, in that last season the team didnt have any big man that could play out side.

*****************************************************
  CAMEROON   


Cameroonian National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Cameroonian National Team 2011
#s#
Parfait Bitee
Bitee
Christian Bayang
Bayang
Cyrille Makanda
Makanda
Michel Ipouck
Ipouck
Luc Mbah a Moute
Mbah a Moute
#e#5
Curtis Aldo PG
Seidou Njoya PG
Jules Yimtchi PG
Parfait Bitee 188-G-85 Bourg France
Christian Bayang 193-G-87 Condor Cameroon
Cyrille Makanda 195-G-80 Apollon Cyprus
Michel Ipouck 199-F-86 Le Puy France
Steve Mbog G
Arnaud Adala G
Cyrille Bendjou Nignaleba 86 Condor Cameroon
Luc Mbah a Moute 200-G/F-86 Milwaukee B. USA
Yves Mekongo 201-F-87 FS Debrecen Hungary
Brice Nengsu 190-G-83 Roanne France
Harding NaNa 203-F-81 Ilysiakos Greece
Chris Kuete 195-G/F-83 Thailand S. Thailand
Dominique Ngniman 198-F W.Virg.Wesl. USA
Victor Samnick 203-F-79 Nancy France
Gaston Moliva 201-F-85 Qatar Qatar
Georges Manyaka F/C Phoenix Cameroon
Steve Tchiengang 205-F-88 Vanderbilt USA
Gaston Essengue 203-F-83 Ciclista Argentina
Arsene Towa 191-F-81 Kerava ET Finland
Kenny Kadji 208-F/C Miami, FL USA
Yannick Formbor 203-F Drexel USA
Alexis Wangmene 200-F/C-89 Texas USA
Alfred Aboya 206-F/C-85 Hitachi S. Japan
Eric Mbida 92 BEAC Cameroon
Marc Oboung C

Lazare Adingono Head Coach Canisius USA
Etienne Obah Assistant


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


Energy blow away Chinooks - by Eurobasket News
The Edmonton Energy raced out to a huge lead and never looked back in a 158-126 win over the Portland Chinooks on Friday.

With the largest crowd of the season on hand, the Energy defence was able to hold NBA-calibre guard, Mac Hopson (188-G-87, college: Idaho) to 10 points less then the night before, yet he still managed to drop 41 points.

The Energy were led by Jeffrey Ferguson (210-F/C-81, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Wayne St., MI), Curtis Nash (196-G/F-80, college: Charlotte) and Casey Crawford with 21 points each as Rashaun Broadus (182-G-84, college: BYU) contributed 20 points.

The two teams finish off the three game series at Lakeland College in Lloydminster on Saturday.

Courtesy of www.canada.com

Slam win nail biter over Vancouver, 107-106 - by Eurobasket News
The Bellingham Slam nearly fumbled away a double-digit lead in the fourth quarter, but still prevailed over the Vancouver Volcanoes, 107-106, in a back-and-forth International Basketball League game at Whatcom Pavilion on Friday.

The win marked the first ever single-point victory in the team's six-year history.

After guard Morris Anderson (191-G, college: W.Washington) connected on one of two free throws with 16 seconds left to give the Slam a one-point lead, Vancouver guard Andre Murray (188-G-87, college: Portland St.) played for the last shot and had two would-be game-winning shots miss.

Bellingham began the game shooting well, and put up 34 points the first quarter to lead 34-26.

But it was nearly all Vancouver in the second quarter, as they held the Slam to 15 points and took a 55-49 lead into halftime.

In the third quarter, the momentum shifted back to Bellingham thanks to a combined 13 points from forwards Blake Poole and Michael Duty, with the Slam outscoring the Volcanoes 37-23 to go up by eight, at 86-76.

After a Poole three-pointer put the Slam up by 11, at 95-84 with 7:39 to play, the Volcanoes began chipping away at the lead and tied the game at 106-106 with 29 seconds left on a dunk by Lawrence Blackledge (203-F-86, college: Marquette), leading to the dramatic final moments.

Anderson led the Slam with 21 points, while Ira Graham (188-PG-87, agency: World Sport Agency, college: W.Washington) had another strong game with 19.

Blackledge finished with a game-high 26 points for Vancouver.

The two teams will battle in the second game of a home-and-home series on Saturday, with a 7 p.m. tip-off scheduled for Vancouver's O'Connell Sports Complex.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

*****************************************************
  CBL   


Gainesville Galaxy sign Johnell Smith - by Eurobasket News
The Gainesville Galaxy is pleased to announce the addition of Johnell Smith (6'1''-G-80, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: New Orleans) to their roster.

Johnell comes from Melrose, Florida and is a 6' 2' guard with prior experience on the New Orleans Privateers and overseas on on the Svendborg Rabbits and, most recently, the Sodertalje Kings in Sweden. Mr. Smith averages 29 points per game and holds the national record for scoring 86 points in one game. We are proud to have him and look forward to his contributions for our team.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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


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


Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. Ningxia Hanas 1-0 
 2. Changan Group 0-0 
 3. Guangzhou FM 0-0 
 4. Hebei 0-0 
 5. Heilongjiang 0-0 
 6. Jiangsu 0-0 
 7. ShenYang 0-0 
 8. Sichuan 0-0 
 9. Whampoa 0-0 
 10. Hangzhou 0-1 


Yang could join Tseng in Shanghai next season: report - by Chris Wang
SBL Finals MVP Yang Ching-Min (188-G/F-84) of Taiwan Beer could join former Yulon center Wen-Ting Tseng (202-C/F-84) to play for Shanghai Dongfang Sharks of the Chinese League CBA (Chinese Basketball Association) next season, local media reported.

The 190cm shooter is expected to be tested in Shanghai in July and meet with Shanghai owner Yao Ming and its head coach Bob Donewald, United Evening Daily reported, adding that two other teams expressed interests in Yang.

Tseng, a 204cm center who played for Osaka Evessa of the Japanese league BJ League this past season, is expected to sign with the Sharks soon. Due to league regulation, Tseng was not able to join Shanghai last season.

Yang will be yet another Taiwanese star player to play for a much lucrative contract, following the footsteps of Chen Hsin-an, Lin Chih-chieh, Lee Hsueh-lin and Yen Hsin-shu, among others.

According to the United Evening News, CBA teams are willing to pay more than NT$4 million (approximately US$140,000) annually -- and more than NT$8 million (approximately US$270,000) for Lin Chih-chieh and Wen-Ting Tseng -- for the service of top-notch Taiwanese players.

In Taiwan, SBL implements a much-criticized hard cap of NT$120,000 (US$4,190) on players' monthly salary, which means a top player is only able to earn a little more than US$50,000 annually.

While top players usually earn more than that with some getting paid more than NT$3 million (around US$105,000) because most SBL teams did not follow the stupid regulation, the budgets of SBL teams pale in comparison of the Chinese teams.

Some local basketball observers have urged the league to scrap the salary cap and called for the SBL teams to invest more on the players, otherwise, they said, losing big-name players will be inevitable.

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


Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 Hrvoje PULJKO
  Kvarner .
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 23
 1. Puljko, Kvarner23.0 
 2. Car, Zadar21.7 
 3. Zitko, Trogir20.2 
 4. Bogdanovic, Cibona20.1 
 5. Zoric, KK.19.8 
 6. Bakovic, Darda17.4 
 7. Petkovic, Svjetlost17.4 
 8. Saric, Dubrava17.2 
 9. Simon, KK.16.9 
 10. Brown, Zadar15.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dario SARIC
  Dubrava
  (205-F/C-94)
  Avg: 10
 1. Saric, Dubrava10.0 
 2. Krolo, Darda8.7 
 3. Brown, Zadar7.4 
 4. Zoric, KK.7.3 
 5. Radic, Alkar Sinj7.0 
 6. Sobin, KK Split6.9 
 7. Ivanov, Zadar6.8 
 8. Ridl, Darda6.5 
 9. Grgurevic, KK Split6.5 
 10. Simon, KK.6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Milan KARAKAS
  Trogir
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 7.1
 1. Karakas, Trogir7.1 
 2. Car, Zadar5.4 
 3. Petkovic, Svjetlost5.3 
 4. Jugo, Kvarner 20104.3 
 5. Draper, Cedevita4.0 
 6. Blajic, Alkar Sinj3.9 
 7. Renfroe, KK.3.7 
 8. Saric, Dubrava3.5 
 9. Dosen, Dubrovnik3.4 
 10. Mulaomerovic, KK3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Alex RENFROE
  KK.
  (190-G-86)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Renfroe, KK.2.4 
 2. Marcinkovic, Zadar2.3 
 3. Saric, Dubrava2.0 
 4. Draper, Cedevita1.9 
 5. Anzulovic, Alkar S.1.9 
 6. Car, Zadar1.9 
 7. Brown, Zadar1.8 
 8. Karakas, Trogir1.8 
 9. Bicvic, Darda1.7 
 10. Petani, Borik1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Luka ZORIC
  KK.
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Zoric, KK.1.7 
 2. Kraljevic, Zabok1.4 
 3. Vitali, Trogir1.2 
 4. Saric, Dubrava1.0 
 5. Krolo, Darda1.0 
 6. Vukicevic, Svjetlo.0.9 
 7. Vladovic, Trogir0.8 
 8. Sobin, KK Split0.8 
 9. Ridl, Darda0.8 
 10. Sarlija, Borik0.7 


Rok Stipcevic signs new contract with Varese - by Eurobasket News
Cimberio Varese renewed the contract of Rok Stipcevic (188-PG-86). The sides have agreed on terms of 2-year deal. The Croatian 25-year-old guard joined the Italian team back in February. He averaged 9.3 points, 3.2 assists and 2.5 rebounds per game in Seria A. Rok Stipcevic started the season in Cibona Zagreb. He averaged 10.3 points, 4.1 assists and 2.8 rebounds in Euroleague. In Adriatic League the guard provided 9.8 points, 3.2 assists and 1.9 rebounds per appearance. Earlier Rok Stipcevic played for Zadar for seven straight seasons. Rok Stipcevic played for Croatia at 2010 World Championship in Turkey. Earlier he appeared on U18 and U20 Croatian rosters.


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


Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Terry SMITH
  BC Kolin
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 17.4
 1. Smith, BC Kolin17.4 
 2. Landry, BK Prost.15.3 
 3. Houska, BK Decin15.1 
 4. Horak, Svitavy14.7 
 5. Hatcher, BK Decin14.5 
 6. Sedmak, Basketbo.14.3 
 7. Simmons, CEZ N.14.2 
 8. Blazek, B&W Opava14.0 
 9. Veikalas, BK Prost.13.9 
 10. Kotas, USK Praha13.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Boris MENO
  Basketbo.
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Meno, Basketbo.10.4 
 2. Houska, BK Decin8.6 
 3. Landry, BK Prost.8.5 
 4. Arnold, BK Pardu.7.7 
 5. Burke, NH Ostrava7.6 
 6. Spagrud, NH Ostra.7.3 
 7. Frana, Plzen7.1 
 8. Kramny, Svitavy6.9 
 9. Gadri, BK Prostejov6.8 
 10. Klimes, USK Praha6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Stepan VRUBL
  Plzen
  (186-G-76)
  Avg: 6
 1. Vrubl, Plzen6.0 
 2. Lawrence, BK Prost.5.3 
 3. Jones, BC Kolin3.8 
 4. Carnecky, B&W O.3.7 
 5. Hatcher, BK Decin3.5 
 6. Kotas, USK Praha3.4 
 7. Sanders, BK Decin3.3 
 8. Maio, Basketbo.2.9 
 9. Macela, Svitavy2.7 
 10. Channels, Novy Ji.2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Lukas KOTAS
  USK Praha
  (194-F-84)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Kotas, USK Praha1.9 
 2. Wright, BK Pardu.1.8 
 3. Smith, BC Kolin1.7 
 4. Holloway, Basket.1.7 
 5. Sirina, B&W Opava1.6 
 6. Hampton, BK Pardu.1.5 
 7. Lawrence, BK Prost.1.5 
 8. Landry, BK Prost.1.5 
 9. Hatcher, BK Decin1.4 
 10. Vrubl, Plzen1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Martin MIKLOSIK
  B&W O.
  (226-C-86)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Miklosik, B&W O.1.2 
 2. Trybanski, NH Os.1.2 
 3. Gadri, BK Prostejov0.9 
 4. Kramny, Svitavy0.9 
 5. Meno, Basketbo.0.8 
 6. Houska, BK Decin0.8 
 7. Bjegovic, USK Praha0.7 
 8. Pelikan, Novy Jicin0.7 
 9. Miles, BC Kolin0.7 
 10. Benda, CEZ Nymbu.0.6 


NBL Round 3 of Finals: BK Prostejov wins Game 3 - by Eurobasket News
BK Prostejov - CEZ Nymburk 73-70

BK Prostejov wins Game 3 73:70 over the defending champions. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 27-19 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. 27 personal fouls committed by CEZ Nymburk helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for American guard Eugene Lawrence (184-86, college: St.John's) who led his team to a victory with 22 points, 5 assists and 5 steals. Canadian forward Kyle Landry (206-86, college: N.Arizona) contributed with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. American guard Chester Simmons (198-82, college: Washington) answered with 17 points and 6 rebounds and international power forward Petr Benda (203-82, agency: Court Side) added 13 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for CEZ Nymburk. CEZ Nymburk's coach Ronen Ginzburg tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
BK Prostejov: E.Lawrence 22+2reb+5ast, K.Landry 17+12reb, B.Cadri-Nicholson 15+12reb+1ast, B.Veikalas 7+4reb, A.Slezas 6+7reb, J.Prasil 3
CEZ Nymburk: C.Simmons 17+6reb, P.Benda 13+7reb, M.Lenzly 9+1reb, M.Kremen 8+5reb+1ast, A.Nissim 7+2reb+2ast, V.Stimac 6+5reb
gschID: 129432




Germany U20 overcame Czech Republic U20 in the friendly opener - by Eurobasket News
Germany U20-Czech Republic U20 82:56 (22:7, 19:14, 17:21, 24:14)

Germany U20 overcame Czech Republic U20 in the friendly opener 82:56. Both teams started their preparation for the summer U20 European Championship and will play two more games against each other.
Germany opened the game with 22-7 and never looked behind. Moreover the hosts added 19-14 in the second frame to increase to 41:21 at the halftime. Czech Republic however won the third quarter 21-17 to reduce the gap a bit, but the hosts finished the game with 24-14 for the win in the opener.
Patrick Heckmann (196-G/F-92) paced all the winners with 16 points. Daniel Theis (205-C-92) and Malte Ziegenhagen (193-G-91) netted 11 apiece, while Danilo Barthel (207-F-91, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) scored 10.
The second game is scheduled for tonight at the Sporthalle Heijnersdorfer Strasse in Bernau. The third and the last game will be played on June 5 at the Paul-Dinter-Halle in Konigs Wusterhausen.

USK Praha sign Stanislav Votroubek - by Eurobasket News
USK Praha sign Stanislav Votroubek (213-C-81) as the Czech Republic player comes back from Slovakia.
In December 2010 Stanislav Votroubek signed at BK Iskra Svit (Slovakia-Extraliga, starting five) and in Slovakian League averaged 8.6ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.2apg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 60.0%. In March 2011moved to BK SPU Nitra (Slovakia-Extraliga, starting five) and in 19 games showed 7.5ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 73.3%. With the Slovakian team he became Slovakian League Regular Season Champion -11.
Stanislav Votroubek recorded 24 points in his top game at the Semi-Finals Game 1 when Nitra overcame Vahostav-Zilina 94-86.
The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Vahostav-Zilina won third quarter 22-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Nitra made 29-of-36 charity shots (80.6 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Vahostav-Zilina turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Vahostav-Zilina was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Stanislav Votroubek top-scored for the winners, while American guard Ronald Moore had double-double by scoring 18 points, 7 rebounds and 11 assists for the winners and Latvian center Raitis Grafs chipped in 22 points and 5 rebounds (made all of his twelve free throws !!!).



*****************************************************
  DENMARK   


Vaerlose Embarks on Ambitious Project; Hires Silfen as New Sports Director - by Armen Rhodes
According to the official CDL website, in an effort to continue to strengthen Vaerloese Basketball Club at the highest level in Danish basketball, the club has hired Thomas Silfen as its new sporting director.

Silfen comes with extensive experience as both a coach and trainer at the top level, and has most recently served as a consultant for Vaerlose.

The move signifies a major step forward for Vaerlose, as the club seeks to secure a playoff spot in the CDL table next year and perhaps make some noise as a surprise contender for a top finish.

*****************************************************
  EAST ASIA CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Standing
Standings
Group A
1. China0-0
2. Hong Kong0-0
3. S.Korea0-0
Group B
1. Japan0-0
2. Mongolia0-0
3. Taiwan0-0


South Korean National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
South Korean National Team 2011
#s#
Byung-Hyun Kang
Kang
Seung-Hyun Kim
Kim
Chan-Hee Park
Park
Dong-Geun Yang
Yang
Jung-Suk Lee
Lee
#e#5
Kang Byung-Hyun 193-G-85 KCC Egis South Korea
Kim Seung-Hyun 178-G-78 Daegu Orions South Korea
Park Chan-Hee 191-G-87 Anyang KGC South Korea
Yang Dong-Geun 182-G-81 Mobis Phoebus South Korea
Lee Jung-Suk 184-G-82 Samsung Th. South Korea
Cho Sung-Min 197-F-83 Sonic Boom KT South Korea
Kim Yong-Hwan 195-F-84 Sonic Boom KT South Korea
Yang Hee-Jong 194-F-84 Anyang KGC South Korea
Kim Seung-Won 202-C-89
Kim Jong-Gyu
Oh Se-Keun 201-C-87 Chungang Univ. South Korea
Sandrin Eric 206-F/C-78 Samsung Th. South Korea

Hur Jae Head Coach KCC Egis South Korea


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Standings Div.A (Men)
Standings
Group A
1. U.Kingdom0-0
2. Spain0-0
3. Lithuania0-0
4. Poland0-0
5. Turkey0-0
Group B
1. France0-0
2. Germany0-0
3. Israel0-0
4. Italy0-0
5. Latvia0-0
6. Serbia0-0
Group C
1. Bosnia0-0
2. Croatia0-0
3. Greece0-0
4. FYR Macedon.0-0
5. Montenegro0-0
Group D
1. Belgium0-0
2. Bulgaria0-0
3. Georgia0-0
4. Russia0-0
5. Slovenia0-0
6. Ukraine0-0
Qualification
1. Finland0-0
2. Hungary0-0
3. Portugal0-0


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


Stats Leaders - ProA
Points Per Game
 Rick HUGHES
  Hyeres-T.
  (204-C/F-73)
  Avg: 19.2
 1. Hughes, Hyeres-T.19.2 
 2. Jefferson, AS.18.5 
 3. Nichols, Vichy18.2 
 4. Mejia, Cholet18.1 
 5. Darden, Nancy17.2 
 6. Massie, Limoges16.9 
 7. Mensah-Bonsu, AS.16.5 
 8. Shuler, Vichy16.0 
 9. Hamilton, Paris-.15.6 
 10. Schilb, Chalon14.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Pops MENSAH-BONSU
  AS.
  (206-F-83)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Mensah-Bonsu, AS.9.3 
 2. Massie, Limoges9.2 
 3. Krupalija, Hyeres.8.9 
 4. Akingbala, Nancy8.2 
 5. Jones, Le Havre7.7 
 6. Hughes, Hyeres-T.7.7 
 7. Koffi, Le Mans7.6 
 8. Issa, Gravelines7.6 
 9. Sene, Gravelines7.4 
 10. Jefferson, AS.7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Vichy
  (178-G-75)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Reid, Vichy6.3 
 2. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.5.9 
 3. Taylor, Limoges5.8 
 4. Woodside, Gravelin.5.7 
 5. King, Le Havre5.4 
 6. Linehan, Nancy5.3 
 7. Wright, Limoges5.3 
 8. Walsh, AS.4.9 
 9. Sciarra, Pau-La.4.7 
 10. Diabate, Roanne4.7 
Steals Per Game
 John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Linehan, Nancy3.1 
 2. Diot, Le Mans2.1 
 3. Dobbins, Hyeres-T.2.0 
 4. Walsh, AS.2.0 
 5. Darden, Nancy1.9 
 6. Elegar, Vichy1.8 
 7. Diabate, Roanne1.8 
 8. Schilb, Chalon1.7 
 9. Greer, Strasbourg1.7 
 10. Dewar, Le Mans1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Cyril AKPOMEDAH
  Grave.
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Akpomedah, Grave.2.1 
 2. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.1.5 
 3. Falker, Cholet1.5 
 4. Jefferson, AS.1.4 
 5. Sene, Gravelines1.3 
 6. Koffi, Le Mans1.2 
 7. Akingbala, Nancy1.2 
 8. Issa, Gravelines1.2 
 9. Elegar, Vichy1.0 
 10. Pasco, Strasbourg1.0 


Stats Leaders - ProB
Points Per Game
 Moses SONKO
  Maurienne
  (196-F-83)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Sonko, Maurienne19.1 
 2. Siggers, Rouen18.9 
 3. Harris, Lille18.4 
 4. Rouse, Charleville16.8 
 5. Milbourne, Boulogne16.5 
 6. Carter, Nanterre16.3 
 7. Davis, Le Portel15.9 
 8. Gay, Fos Ouest15.4 
 9. Runkaukas, Quimper15.1 
 10. Downey, Nantes14.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Korvotney BARBER
  Nantes
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. Barber, Nantes10.2 
 2. Daniels, Chalons-.9.6 
 3. Wyatte, Le Portel9.4 
 4. Bing, Dijon9.2 
 5. Mathis, Maurienne8.9 
 6. Rouse, Charleville8.8 
 7. Monds, Bourg8.4 
 8. Badiane, Boulazac8.0 
 9. Giles, Rouen8.0 
 10. Monroe, Boulogne7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Philippe DA SILVA
  Evreux
  (192-G-79)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Da Silva, Evreux7.8 
 2. Rowland, Le Portel6.5 
 3. Patiejunas, Boulo.5.9 
 4. Downey, Nantes5.7 
 5. Oliver, Bourg5.5 
 6. Taylor, Rouen5.0 
 7. Mullins, Chalons-.5.0 
 8. Denave, St Vallier4.7 
 9. Darnauzan, Mauri.4.6 
 10. Craven, Dijon4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Mykal RILEY
  Nanterre
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Riley, Nanterre2.5 
 2. Shiloh, St Vallier2.5 
 3. Daniels, Chalons-.2.4 
 4. Craven, Dijon2.3 
 5. Mullins, Chalons-.2.2 
 6. Melody, Dijon2.1 
 7. Patiejunas, Boulo.2.1 
 8. Sonko, Maurienne2.1 
 9. Hachad, Fos Ouest2.0 
 10. Denave, St Vallier2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Gay, Fos Ouest1.7 
 2. Jefferson, Quimper1.3 
 3. Monds, Bourg1.1 
 4. Barber, Nantes1.0 
 5. N''Diaye, Clermont0.9 
 6. Adjiwanou, Boula.0.9 
 7. Davis, Evreux0.9 
 8. Daniels, Nanterre0.9 
 9. Taccoen, Lille0.9 
 10. Ford, Clermont0.7 


ProB: Nanterre and Dijon to fight for the title - by Eurobasket News
ProB Semis, Game 3: Nanterre - Fos Ouest 76-60 (2-1)

Nanterre joined Dijon in the ProB Finals. Third crucial game of the Playoff Semis between Nanterre and Fos Ouest was played tonight and the home squad had no troubles to register 76-60 win ending the series with 2-1. The Grand Final is scheduled for next Saturday in Paris (Bercy). Nanterre was the regular season champion with 24-10 score, while Dijon was No.2 with 13-11. It is important to mention that both teams already earned a spot for ProA 2011/12.
It was a very close game until the last quarter, when JSF Nanterre's pressure prevailed and they won that period 24-14 extending their advantage to 16 points. It was a great shooting night for JSF Nanterre especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. It was a good game for American forward Mykal Riley (198-F-85, college: Alabama) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Naturalized Congolese guard Loic Akono (178-G-87) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Jamaican-American forward Sherman Gay (201-F-82, college: Loyola Marymount) answered with 10 points and 8 rebounds and naturalized Algerian forward Karim Atamna (194-F-80) added 11 points in the effort for Fos Ouest.

Top scorers:
Nanterre: M.Riley 18+6reb+3ast, M.Judith 16+3reb+1ast, L.Akono 14+4reb+3ast, N.Carter 9+4reb+4ast, G.Pons 8+3reb+1ast, W.Daniels 5+3reb+1ast
Fos Ouest: K.Atamna 11+3reb, S.Gay 10+8reb+2ast, M.Hachad 7+3reb, C.Humbert 6+5reb+1ast, A.Hamza 6, Z.Bah 6+2reb+3ast

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  GERMANY   


Wolfenbuettel signs Derrick Stevens - by Moritz Korff
2. Bundesliga Pro B club Herzoege Wolfenbuettel announced the signing of its first import player for the 2011-12 season. Derrick Stevens (180-G-80, college: Colorado St.) will bring lots of experience along with an ability to score in diverse ways to Wolfenbuettel. The 31-year-old native of Houston, Texas and 2004 Colorado State University graduate makes the move from BG Magdeburg to Wolfenbuettel. In this past campaign he appeared in nine Regionalliga games, averaging a league-leading 28.3 points per contest for the Eagles. Stevens has had stints in Iceland and Sweden as well as in some US minor leagues including the WBA, ABA and the NBA D-League earlier in his career as a professional basketball player.

2011 beko BBL Final Preview Brose Baskets Bamberg-Alba Berlin 3------2 Can Derrick Allen Win His First beko BBL Title? - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Revenge and long term absence that Alba Berlin is currently suffering can be a very dangerous and uncomfortable experience for any opponent in the beko BBL as Oldenburg and The Deutsche Bank Skyliners recently had to witness in the last weeks, but now they will take this increased stress of the past into the Brose Baskets Bamberg series in the 2011 beko BBl final. Alba Berlin hasnt been in the beko BBl final since 2008, which might not seem like a long time to a neutral bystander, but for CEO Marco Baldi, it probably seems like an eternity and as horrible as Harry Potter fans seeing the end of the story becoming a reality, George Bush haters not getting the total satisfaction of the ex President getting hit by an errand foul ball at a Texas Rangers-Chicago White Sox game or ex Skyliner coach Murat Didin having to witness and come to terms with being seen by some as a Danny Devito doppelganger. On top of not tasting champagne in three years, the team not only lost the season series to Bamberg, but were drilled on the side of their heads in Bamberg being humiliated 103-52 and the only thing missing was the team departing the arena with bags over their heads. With FC Bayern Munich entering the beko BBL stage next season and ready to rumble with the top teams and Brose Baskets Bamberg being the top team at the moment, Alba Berlin doesnt want to slide further away from the top and will be as motivated to seek revenge as Dirk Nowitzki had for the game one loss to the Miami Heat taking crunch time in game two into his own hands and scoring the last seven Mavericks points to win game two 95-93, Big Loser contestants in the American TV show impressing new drill sergeant ex tennis goddess Anna Kurnikowa or Paris Hilton trying to upend her party girl image each day with worthy causes. The Brose Baskets Bamberg host Alba Berlin in game one Sunday as both teams enter the finals with long five game series, but Alba Berlin possibly having more momentum coming in having won all three games in Frankfurt and remembering the big 103-52 loss. 'Alba Berlin showed that they played with a lot of confidence on the road. They might of had a long series against Frankfurt, but I dont think they are tired, because they have a long bench. They arent tired yet and will have momentum going in. That 51 point loss will still be in their heads. I believe that Alba Berlin will come out with a lot of energy', stressed Artland Dragon guard Bryan Bailey.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg only lost two games all season and had a huge advantage over most of the other 17 BEKO BBL teams in that they have kept a core of their team. This season Bamberg has kept many teams off guard with not just one style of play. We can play a multitude of different styles. We have players on our roster that can do everything. The style we play depends on our opponent and style of game they play. We will always be able to tailor our game to match the opponent, added Bamberg forward Kyle Hines. It seems like Bamberg have no weak spot at any position. We are a strong team and have depth at every position with a number of players being able to play multiple positions, said Kyle Hines. But the biggest strength of the Brose Baskets Bamberg is something that every team in basketball any where on earth strive to have. We simply play team basketball. We have developed a chemistry in a short time. There is no player on this team that is looking for individual stats. Each guy is interested in trying to do what is best for the team to have success, warned Kyle Hines. The Brose Baskets Bamberg started off the season so hot winning their first 17 games in a row that it seemed like talk of an undefeated season was not a far fetched idea. However the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf proved that anything is possible in the BEKO BBL as they upset Bamberg 72-69. 'A season is long and tough and it is really tough to go undefeated at anything. One should not forget that Bamberg played very many games already', stated John Bynum. They have blown away most of the competition with ease holding teams to under 70 points 26 times. They average 82 points per game and have only built on the strong team chemistry that was already present early in the season. 'Bamberg seem to get better with each game that they have played. The Euroleague games also have helped them get better', added John Bynum. You would have thought that teams would have an easier time the second time around, but that wasnt the case. 'In the second half of the season, teams are able to see more of a pattern of play of their opponents and know more about each individual player by film and other things that they didnt have in the first half. After playing a team once, you are better at evaluating things better and you can also see them play against teams before you as well', said John Bynum. But Bamberg lost only once in the second half of the season in Goettingen and won each home game. Bamberg won the quarterfinal series against the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven 3-0, but it wasnt a cake walk as Bremerhaven was in the first two games losing in crunch time. In game 3, Bamberg manhandled Bremerhaven 86-58 having the big rebound edge 50-33, having 6 guys in double figurers and sending the club of coach Doug Spradley into summer vacation. Bamberg had to go the distance against The Artland Dragons winning 3-2, but remained faithful to their home court advantage winning each home game and still being undefeated this season at home. Bamberg was never seriously threatened at home as they put away the Artland Dragons 83-55 in game five as the opponent were missing Nathan Peavy and just had little energy left in their tank to compete for 40 minutes with a non stop aggressive Bamberg club.

Alba Berlin is one of the strongest teams in the BEKO BBL now despite going through some changes this season. The team started the season well going 8-1 in the first months losing only on the road to Ratiopharm Ulm. However towards the end of 2010, Alba Berlin went through a small drought period losing three games in a row including a 103-52 trouncing in Bamberg, in which the bus ride home might have felt like an eternity for the team. The air seemed thin along the Spree in Alba world as the team failed to reach the Eurocup final 16 and first got rid of point guard Hollis Price who unfairly was made an escape goat. The club that said farewell to Luka Pavicevic who had been at the helm since 2007 winning two titles with Alba Berlin. The team brought in Muli Katzurin from Israel who had won the Czech league titles and cups from 2007-2010. Since the arrival of Katzurin the team is 9-4 and have won four of their last five games. The team also have brought in guards Heiko Schaffartzik who still hasnt found his rhythm, 2010 Eurochallenge winner Taylor Rochestie with BG Goettingen and 23 year old 213 cm Serb talent Miroslav Raduljica to help under the hoop. The team recently also released guard Marko Marnovic as well. Despite the many changes and whirlwind happenings, the team should be playing for the title. 'Alba is a solid team and have had ups and downs this season but they are still a team that will be around at the end of the season in my opinion. They have had to go through a coaching change but they have the talent to beat any of the top teams. I think that they have the talent and the players for sure to win the title', warned John Bynum. With the coaching change, how much has the style changed from Pavicevic to Katzurin? 'I think they are more up tempo and not as predictable as they once were. They were running a lot more sets with the old coach but now I think they have more freedom and they have players that can excel more in that style of play', stressed John Bynum. 'Alba Berlin has a different kind of rotation now. The biggest quality is that they are a lot more unpredictable than under Luka Pavicevic. They mix it up on defense as teams never really know what will be thrown at them next. Alba Berlin sought revenge after losing in 2005 and 2010 to the Deutsche Bank Sklyiners by winning a tight five games semi final series against Frankfurt. The series was very curious, since no team was able to win a single home game. Key in the series was the team that got the better start usually won. In game five Alba Berlin shot very well, controlled the boards, got many easy baskets, made a majority of the hustle plays and was able to contain beko BBL MVP Dashaun Wood well. Frankfurt also seemed a bit tired, couldnt keep pave with the deeper Alba Berlin rotation and had no recipe to stop the Alba Berlin inside play as they were able to take advantage of the size advantage.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg have a strong and valuable guard trio of John Goldsberry (4,2ppg, 1,7rpg, 4,1apg), Anton Gavel (10,8ppg, 2,6rpg, 2,2apg) and Brian Roberts (10,3ppg, 2,2rpg, 3,4apg). Goldsberry probably the most unselfish player at the moment in the league can change a game with his defense as he once had 10 steals with Leverkusen, Gavel will hurt you with his threes and extra pass ability and just when you thought that you could have a breather on defense, in comes Roberts who can score in bunches quicker than Ray Allen can releases his bombs from the corner.Alba Berlin has the deepest guard personal in the beko BBL. After having start problems at the point, the club released veteran Hollis Price and Serb Marko Marinovic. The club brought in Heiko Schaffartzik (3,6ppg, 1,2rpg and 1,7apg in 9,58 min per game) who has had problems finding his rhythm, but has gotten more playing time recently. He had a strong game five in Frankfurt with 10 points and five assists. What the German can do on offense is unlimited as he shoots first and penetrates second. He is a great one on one player. His biggest weapon is his shooting as he loves the catch and pop and off the dribble shooting. The team also has solved their starting point guard problem bringing in Taylor Rochestie (8,8ppg, 3,9apg, 2,7rpg) from Turkey. Ever since Rochestie dropped 26 points for BG Goettingen last season in a road win against Alba Berlin, the club seemed fascinated by his killer instinct in stress situations. Since his arrival, he has shined with his scoring and playmaking scoring in double figures in 8 of his 12 games with Alba Berlin. At the shooting guard position, the team has unending talent with Julius Jenkins (14,3ppg, 2,1rpg, 2,6apg) Immanuel Mcelroy (9,9ppg, 3,7rpg 3,3apg), Bryce Taylor (7,8ppg, 3,6rpg, 2,1apg and Luka Staiger (3,5ppg, 1,2rpg,). Both Jenkins and Mcelroy can help out at the point as well. Jenkins is one of the deadliest shooters in the league and even though it seems like he is having an average season due to the deep team, he is right at the top in stats and can still decide a game in crunch time. Mcelroy won his 5th best defender of the year award and his overall quickness, combined with his mental toughness, makes him well-suited as a defender in the attacking defense under Katzurin. He is very athletic, a 40-inch vertical jump and a bench press approaching 300 pounds, ability to break defenders down with his dribble and his explosiveness to the basket makes him an effective scorer. On offense, he always has the ability to get triple doubles. Taylor is the big winner of the season. He came to Alba Berlin on a short term contract and probably never expected to still be with the team, but is development continued to soar and under new coach Katzurin has really flourished not only with his scoring, hustle and energy on defense, but also helping under the boards where he got two double doubles this season. With Staiger, the club has a young German who is known as a prolific scorer and has done a fine job coming from the bench and doing his job. One wont find a more well-rehearsed trio than Goldsberry, Gavel and Roberts in the beko BBL, with each player bringing something extra special to the table but Alba Berlin is deeper at the guard position, but The guard position is even.

With Predrag Suput (12,4ppg, 4,1rpg, 1,7apg), Bamberg has one of the top power forwards that is always guaranteed to score even if it doesnt look pretty, the Serb has been doing it for his whole career and his experience is huge. Reyshawn Terry (10,0ppg, 5,2rpg) brings the athletic quality to the forwards. With Casey Jacobsen (11,8ppg, 3,5rpg, 3,0apg), Bamberg has an ex NBA player that is as unselfish as his teammate John Goldsberry as well. Jacobsen is a very versatile player that scores, rebounds and gets assists and is the ultimate team player and on top of that the team leader. Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) (13,6ppg, 4,2rpg, 1,2apg) belongs to the top forwards in the beko BBL and he withstood all odds with possibly not getting as much playing time in Berlin as he did in Frankfurt, by working hard in practice and becoming one of their most consistent scorers this season. He scored in double figurers in 26 of the first 30 games including explosions of 37 points against Phoenix Hagen and 28 points against Oldenburg and MBC. Tadija Dragicevic (7,9ppg, 3,7rpg, 1,9apg) who comes from Serbia is a power forward with great talent, who can score, pass and rebound. Some say he is undersized for the four position, and that he will make a successful transition to the three position, thanks to his great court vision and athletic skills. He started the season well scoring in double figurers in 11 of 16 games, but since Katzurin came on board has gotten less playing time and scored only in double figurers in 3 of 14 games. Sven Schultze might be 32, but he is still a very strong player with a deadly shot. With his size, he will post up the opponents small forwards and outrun the opponents power forwards. He is able to defend bigger players, but also agile enough to defend smaller ones. He can drop the three pointer in a variety of ways which gave Luka Pavicevic so many more ways of using him. He also is very dangerous on the fast break as he can with the speed of a point guard and then dunk. He also adds a lot of experience to the team with his international games with Germany. Schultze broke the back in the Frankfurt comeback in the second half coming totally cold from the bench and making a dent in any Frankfurt comeback dropping three three pointers. There isnt much separating the forward position. Suput, Terry and Jacobsen are very solid, while Allen, Dragcevic and Schultze bring much quality and different offensive qualities to the table. The very slight edge goes to Bamberg. The matchup of the series could be Suput-Allen, but with the deep roster of Muli Katzurin, one should never expect one player to explode with a 20-25 point night.

At the center position, it is pretty even. Bamberg has a strong duo with German national player Tibor Pleiss/Kyle Hines. Pleiss (9,1ppg, 6,7rpg) has improved very much this season and his defense adds a new dimension to the Bamberg play. . Kyle Hines (10,2ppg, 4,6rpg) is a big body that frees up space for the guards and he scores and rebounds on a consistent level this season. With MiroslavRaduljica (9,8ppg, 3,6rpg), Yassin Idbihi (7,5ppg, 3,7rpg) and Patrick Femmerling (4,8ppg, 2,7rpg), they have a very solid rotation. . Serb Raduljica has been up and down in his first 10 games, but he is only 23 years old and still getting used to the beko BBL. He had big games against Artland which have good big man play. He is developing well and will be a factor down low. Idbihi is the big winner under new coach Katzurin. In his first 18 games, he scored only three times in double figurers, but since the new coach is on board, he started getting more minutes and scored in double figurers in five of the last seven games which has helped his self confidence. Katzurin has solved the center problem in Berlin as the duo of Raduljica/Idbihi are more than solid. Femerling is the most experienced player on the roster having won everything there is to win except the NBA title and the NCAA title, but winning 13 titles in his basketball career including the Euroleague in 2003 with FC Barcelona and winning a Bronze at the World Championships in 2002 and a Silver at the 2005 European championships. He has won 3 BEKO BBL titles and two cups. Alba Berlin has an edge under the hoop against the smaller Skyliners, but against Bamberg will have their cut out matching up against the long Pleiss that makes the zone a lot smaller and the physical Hines who has been one of the most effective players in the semi finals. Alba Berlin as the solid duo of Idbhi (also one of most effective players in semi finals) and Raduljica that will have his work more cut out for him in the final. A slight edge to Bamberg here also.

Bamberg won the season series and the last time, these two teams met in a playoff series was 2003 as Alba Berlin won their last beko BBl title in that seven year in a row championship run sweeping Bamberg 3-0. Back then Alba Berlin was led by players like Jovo Stanojevic, Mithat Demirel, Marko Pesic and Stefano Garris, while Bamberg played with a seven man rotation in game three featuring players like Steffen Hamann, Chris Ensminger, Rick Stafford and Jason Sasser. One thing is for sure, Alba Berlin will have to win at home, because no team has won in Bamberg this season, and Alba Berlin cant afford to believe that their incredible 4-0 record in Frankfurt will be that easy to do in the always loud and uncomfortable Stechert arena in Bamberg. Both teams are offensive power houses averaging more than 80 points a game, but Bamberg is a better rebounding team. Both teams are very strong defensive teams. Two big keys will be who can get off to the better start in each game and hold their rhythm and as the series grows which team wants it more. Artland Dragon guard Bryan Bailey saw first hand how the current condition of Bamberg is and predicts a five games series that will be won by Bamberg. 'Alba Berlin has to go inside a lot. They have many options on offense and should try to get as many fats break points as possible and play consistent defense. Bamberg has to slow down guys like Jenkins, Mcelroy and Taylor and keep their big guys out of the paint. On defense they should try to get them into a half court set and just take away what they do best. Bamberg is known for scouting well', stressed Bryan Bailey. 'Bamberg-Alba Berlin is what the fans wanted. WE have worked nine months to get here. We will have to be very focused', expressed Alba Berlin American Bryce Taylor. The Brose Baskets Bamberg host Alba Berlin in game one June 5th at 15:45.



Janzen extends Hannover stay - by Moritz Korff
Steve Janzen (191-G-82, college: Trinity Western) has extended his spell with 2. Bundesliga Pro A side UBC Hannover, having agreed to terms with the Tigers on a deal for the 2011-12 season. The 29-year-old Canadian with German passport came to Hannover last year. He saw action in all but one game during this past season, spending close to 28 minutes per contest on the hardwood. Janzen led the Tigers in three pointers made (41), also his free throw percentage (81.8%) was the highest on the Hannover squad. He averaged 11.7 points, 2.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists a game. Prior to his stint with UBC the graduate of Trinity Western University (CIS) has played for Moenchengladbach, Iserlohn and Osnabrueck since the start of his professional career in 2005.

Germany U20 overcame Czech Republic U20 in the friendly opener - by Eurobasket News
Germany U20-Czech Republic U20 82:56 (22:7, 19:14, 17:21, 24:14)

Germany U20 overcame Czech Republic U20 in the friendly opener 82:56. Both teams started their preparation for the summer U20 European Championship and will play two more games against each other.
Germany opened the game with 22-7 and never looked behind. Moreover the hosts added 19-14 in the second frame to increase to 41:21 at the halftime. Czech Republic however won the third quarter 21-17 to reduce the gap a bit, but the hosts finished the game with 24-14 for the win in the opener.
Patrick Heckmann (196-G/F-92) paced all the winners with 16 points. Daniel Theis (205-C-92) and Malte Ziegenhagen (193-G-91) netted 11 apiece, while Danilo Barthel (207-F-91, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) scored 10.
The second game is scheduled for tonight at the Sporthalle Heijnersdorfer Strasse in Bernau. The third and the last game will be played on June 5 at the Paul-Dinter-Halle in Konigs Wusterhausen.

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  GREECE   


A2 Round 29: Leader KAOD loses to AEK/Argous - by Eurobasket News
There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in A2. The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. It ended with defeat of the leader, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Top ranked KAOD (25-4) recorded its fourth loss on the court of ninth ranked AEK/Argous on Saturday night. Visitors were defeated by AEK/Argous 77-69. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of KAOD. The hosts trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 28-19 charge, which allowed them to win the game. AEK/Argous made 23-of-28 free shots (82.1 percent) during the game. AEK/Argous outrebounded KAOD 44-33 including 34 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was power forward Andronikos Gizogiannis (200-83, agency: FCM) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 11 rebounds. American-Icelandic guard Darrel Lewis (192-76, college: Lincoln, MO) chipped in 14 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists. AEK/Argous' coach used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Vassili Kitsoulis (204-83) produced 22 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) for the guests. Newly promoted AEK/Argous maintains ninth place with 14-15 record. KAOD at the other side still keeps top position with four games lost. AEK/Argous are looking forward to face league's second-placed AGOR in Rethymno in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. KAOD will play at home against Panelefsiniakos in Eleusina and is hoping to win this game.
Important game to mention about took place in New Eritrea. Fifteenth ranked Panerythraikos (11-18) saved a 2-point victory at home edging second-ranked AGOR (19-10) 68-66 on Saturday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the guest team. Forward Nikos Pritsos (197-82) orchestrated the victory by scoring 16 points and 6 rebounds. Andreas Sizopoulos contributed with 13 points for the winners. Guard Spyridon Magounis (200-85, agency: FCM) answered with 14 points and 5 rebounds for AGOR. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Panerythraikos moved-up to fourteenth place, which they share with Koroivos. AGOR at the other side keeps the second position with ten games lost. Panerythraikos will play against higher ranked Arkadikos (#5) in Arkadia in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. AGOR will play at home against AEK/Argous and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Eleusina between Panelefsiniakos and Apollon Patras. Eighth ranked Panelefsiniakos (15-14) got a very close home victory over 6th ranked Apollon Patras (15-14). Panelefsiniakos managed to escape with a 1-point win 72-71 in the fight for the fifth place. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Apollon Patras. Sokratis Manavopoulos stepped up and scored 13 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Zoran Milovic responded with 24 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Panelefsiniakos moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Apollon Patras. Panelefsiniakos will meet league's leader KAOD in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Apollon Patras will play against Olimpiada (#12) and hope to secure a win.
A very interesting game took place in Lavrio. It ended with only three-point home defeat of 4th placed Lavrio (17-12) to seventh ranked Amyntas Dafnis (15-14) 77-74 on Saturday evening. Kostas Vardavas nailed 21 points and 9 rebounds for the winning side. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Amyntas Dafnis have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Lavrio lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fourth position with 12 games lost. Amyntas Dafnis' next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Near East (#16) in Kesariani which should be an easy win for them. Lavrio will play on the road against Periko/Arhelaos (#11) in Perikos.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Ikaroi Serron (18-11) against fourteenth ranked Koroivos (11-18) on Saturday night. Visiting Ikaroi Serron was defeated by Koroivos in Koroivos 85-74. The best player for the winners was Nikos Pettas who had a double-double by scoring 26 points, 15 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals (was perfect 18-for-18 from the free throw line !!!). Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Newly promoted Koroivos maintains fourteenth place with 11-18 record, which they share with Panerythraikos. Loser Ikaroi Serron keeps the third position with 11 games lost. Koroivos will face higher ranked Pagrati (#13) in Athens in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ikaroi Serron will play at home against Ermis Lagkada (#10) in Lagadas.

Other games of round 29 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Periko/Arhelaos defeated Olimpiada in Perikos 82-81. Bottom-ranked Near East was beaten by Pagrati at home 66-70. Arkadikos lost to Ermis Lagkada on the opponent's court 72-81.

Koroivos - Ikaroi Serron 85-74

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Ikaroi Serron (18-11) against fourteenth ranked Koroivos (11-18) on Saturday night. Visiting Ikaroi Serron was defeated by Koroivos in Koroivos 85-74. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 85-74. Koroivos made 40-of-43 free shots (93.0 percent) during the game, while Ikaroi Serron only scored sixteen points from the stripe. Koroivos forced 19 Ikaroi Serron turnovers. Ikaroi Serron was plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was guard Nikos Pettas (195-81) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points, 15 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals (was perfect 18-for-18 from the free throw line !!!). Serbian forward Predrag Kosanovic (203-76, agency: BeoExcell) chipped in 25 points and 5 rebounds. Four Koroivos players scored in double figures. Center Kostas Kakaroudis (204-83) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds and guard Kostas Totsios (191-78) added 20 points respectively for the guests. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Newly promoted Koroivos maintains fourteenth place with 11-18 record, which they share with Panerythraikos. Loser Ikaroi Serron keeps the third position with 11 games lost. Koroivos will face higher ranked Pagrati (#13) in Athens in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ikaroi Serron will play at home against Ermis Lagkada (#10) in Lagadas.
Top scorers:
Koroivos: N.Pettas 26+15reb+4ast, P.Kosanovic 25+5reb+1ast, T.Dimitriadis 13+6reb+2ast, S.Tsabis 13+2reb+2ast, D.Apostolopoulos 4+2reb+2ast, V.Xiouras 2+3reb
Ikaroi Serron: K.Totsios 20+4reb+2ast, K.Kakaroudis 16+10reb+3ast, S.Kaberidis 15+4reb, G.Koukas 8+1reb+6ast, M.Pavlisevic 4+2reb, T.Topouzis 4+7reb
gschID: 98942


Olimpiada - Periko/Arhelaos 81-82

There was a minor upset in Patras where 10th ranked Olimpiada (12-17) was edged by twelfth ranked Periko/Arhelaos (12-17) 82-81 on Saturday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Olimpiada won fourth quarter 19-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Periko/Arhelaos made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was forward Giannis Papachristos (194-80) who scored 18 points and 6 rebounds. Center Giannis Maltesios (206-85) chipped in 13 points. Periko/Arhelaos' coach Costas Sorotos allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Guard Sakis Veskoukis (195-80) produced 27 points and center Apostolos Koutroulias (206-76) added 19 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Four Olimpiada players scored in double figures. Periko/Arhelaos moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Pagrati and Olimpiada. Periko/Arhelaos will face higher ranked Lavrio (#4) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Periko/Arhelaos: G.Papachristos 18+6reb+2ast, G.Maltesios 13+4reb+2ast, G.Rodostoglou 12+3reb, C.Gogidis 10+2reb, K.Behlivanis 8+3reb+5ast, A.Sivorotka 5+2reb
Olimpiada: S.Veskoukis 27+3reb+1ast, A.Koutroulias 19+9reb+2ast, N.Makris 13+2reb+5ast, K.Tsotsos 10+4reb+1ast, D.Makris 6, P.Simeopoulos 4+4reb+1ast
gschID: 98939


Lavrio - Amyntas Dafnis 74-77

A very interesting game took place in Lavrio. It ended with only three-point home defeat of 4th placed Lavrio (17-12) to seventh ranked Amyntas Dafnis (15-14) 77-74 on Saturday evening. Lavrio was ahead by 18 points after three quarters before a 35-14 charge of Amyntas Dafnis, which allowed them to win the game. They also forced 27 Lavrio turnovers. 28 personal fouls committed by Lavrio helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Guard Kostas Vardavas (193-81) nailed 21 points and 9 rebounds for the winning side and guard Leonidas Zoupas (182-82) accounted for 13 points and 8 assists. Forward Yiannis Kakiouzis (205-78) came up with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds and guard Pavlos Karvounis (180-72) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Lavrio in the defeat. Four Lavrio players scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Amyntas Dafnis have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Lavrio lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fourth position with 12 games lost. Amyntas Dafnis' next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Near East (#16) in Kesariani which should be an easy win for them. Lavrio will play on the road against Periko/Arhelaos (#11) in Perikos.
Top scorers:
Amyntas Dafnis: K.Vardavas 21+9reb+1ast, C.Barbas 18+2reb+1ast, L.Zoupas 13+4reb+8ast, S.Dorkofikis 7+6reb+2ast, P.Papargiropoulos 6+4reb, K.Boutros 5+2reb
Lavrio: Y.Kakiouzis 15+11reb+1ast, P.Karvounis 11+5reb+2ast, M.Kousoulas 11+4reb, G.Zakinthinos 10+2reb+3ast, C.Likogiannis 8+6reb, G.Bakas 7+2reb+1ast
gschID: 98940


Near East - Pagrati 66-70

No shocking result in a game in Kesariani where thirteenth ranked Pagrati (12-17) defeated bottom-ranked Near East (8-21) 70-66 on Saturday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Near East won third quarter 18-10. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Near East 45-31 including 32 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was forward Dimitris Lolas (203-86, agency: FCM) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points, 16 rebounds and 4 assists. Center Kostas Macheras (205-85, agency: FCM) chipped in a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds. Four Pagrati players scored in double figures. Forward Nikos Tsoutsos (203-82) produced 17 points and 7 rebounds and Serbian guard Milan Stanojevic (188-86, college: E.Washington) added 12 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Pagrati moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Olimpiada and Periko/Arhelaos. Loser Near East stay at the bottom position with 21 games lost. Pagrati will face Koroivos (#14) at home in the next round. Near East will play against Amyntas Dafnis in Athens.
Top scorers:
Pagrati: K.Macheras 22+11reb, D.Lolas 18+16reb+4ast, F.Vasilopoulos 15+3reb+11ast, N.Voulgaris 11+6reb+1ast, C.Karavolas 2+2reb, T.Vardianos 2+4reb
Near East: N.Tsoutsos 17+7reb+3ast, M.Stanojevic 12+6reb+1ast, A.Tolias 10+7reb, A.Psaropoulos 9+5reb+1ast, A.Gribaviotis 8, A.Pappas 7+4reb+3ast
gschID: 98941


AEK/Argous - KAOD 77-69

Top ranked KAOD (25-4) recorded its fourth loss on the court of ninth ranked AEK/Argous on Saturday night. Visitors were defeated by AEK/Argous 77-69. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of KAOD. The hosts trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 28-19 charge, which allowed them to win the game. AEK/Argous made 23-of-28 free shots (82.1 percent) during the game. AEK/Argous outrebounded KAOD 44-33 including 34 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was power forward Andronikos Gizogiannis (200-83, agency: FCM) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 11 rebounds. American-Icelandic guard Darrel Lewis (192-76, college: Lincoln, MO) chipped in 14 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists. AEK/Argous' coach used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Vassili Kitsoulis (204-83) produced 22 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) and guard Nikos Katsares (190-83) added 15 points and 6 steals respectively for the guests. Four KAOD players scored in double figures. Newly promoted AEK/Argous maintains ninth place with 14-15 record. KAOD at the other side still keeps top position with four games lost. AEK/Argous are looking forward to face league's second-placed AGOR in Rethymno in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. KAOD will play at home against Panelefsiniakos in Eleusina and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
AEK/Argous: A.Gizogiannis 26+11reb, G.Kopsaftis 20+3reb, D.Lewis 14+9reb+8ast, T.Kasabalis 6+13reb+1ast, D.Papantoniou 5+3reb+5ast, P.Ekonomakis 3
KAOD: V.Kitsoulis 22+5reb+2ast, N.Katsares 15+3reb+3ast, I.Vukantinov 14+2reb+1ast, A.Tsamatos 11+2reb+2ast, V.Margaritis 5+7reb, S.Benas 2+7reb
gschID: 98937


Panelefsiniakos - Apollon Patras 72-71

A very close game took place in Eleusina between Panelefsiniakos and Apollon Patras. Eighth ranked Panelefsiniakos (15-14) got a very close home victory over 6th ranked Apollon Patras (15-14). Panelefsiniakos managed to escape with a 1-point win 72-71 in the fight for the fifth place. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Apollon Patras. The hosts trailed by 6 points at the halftime before their 36-29 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Forward Sokratis Manavopoulos (205-81) stepped up and scored 13 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and forward Alexandros Sigounas (200-88, agency: FCM) chipped in 11 points and 7 rebounds. Five Panelefsiniakos players scored in double figures. Serbian power forward Zoran Milovic (204-77) responded with 24 points and 5 rebounds and guard Nikos Argyropoylos (188-78) scored 17 points and 8 assists. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Panelefsiniakos moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Apollon Patras. Panelefsiniakos will meet league's leader KAOD in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Apollon Patras will play against Olimpiada (#12) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Panelefsiniakos: S.Manavopoulos 13+9reb+1ast, M.Dioletis 11+5reb, N.Kaklamanos 11+3reb+4ast, A.Sigounas 11+7reb+1ast, T.Nikou 10+2reb+1ast, P.Martzos 7+2reb
Apollon Patras: Z.Milovic 24+5reb+1ast, N.Argyropoylos 17+3reb+8ast, D.Pantelic 11+9reb+1ast, G.Petropoulos 9, G.Lianos 6+6reb+2ast, S.Daniil 2+5reb
gschID: 98938


Panerythraikos - AGOR 68-66

Important game to mention about took place in New Eritrea. Fifteenth ranked Panerythraikos (11-18) saved a 2-point victory at home edging second-ranked AGOR (19-10) 68-66 on Saturday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the guest team. It looked good early as AGOR took an 10-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Panerythraikos took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 2 points. AGOR was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward Nikos Pritsos (197-82) orchestrated the victory by scoring 16 points and 6 rebounds. Cypriot guard Andreas Sizopoulos (189-83) contributed with 13 points for the winners. Guard Spyridon Magounis (200-85, agency: FCM) answered with 14 points and 5 rebounds and the former international forward Tasos Charismidis (203-81, agency: FCM) added 9 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for AGOR. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Panerythraikos moved-up to fourteenth place, which they share with Koroivos. AGOR at the other side keeps the second position with ten games lost. Panerythraikos will play against higher ranked Arkadikos (#5) in Arkadia in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. AGOR will play at home against AEK/Argous and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Panerythraikos: N.Pritsos 16+6reb+2ast, A.Sizopoulos 13+4reb+3ast, P.Karavanas 11+7reb, T.Straganiotis 8+1ast, S.Kontoudis 6+1reb, N.Kourtis 5+2reb+2ast
AGOR: S.Magounis 14+5reb, A.Tsochlas 12+2reb+2ast, G.Kiriakopoulos 9+2reb+4ast, T.Charismidis 9+7reb+2ast, G.Koumoulos 6+3reb+1ast, S.Grundberg 6+3reb
gschID: 98935


Ermis Lagkada - Arkadikos 81-72

There was an upset in Lagadas where higher ranked Arkadikos (15-14) was defeated by eleventh ranked Ermis Lagkada (13-16) 81-72 on Saturday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Arkadikos won third quarter 23-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Ermis Lagkada made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. Ermis Lagkada had a 26-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was forward Alexandros Panagiotopoulos (202-80, agency: FCM) who scored 25 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Naturalized German guard Darko Rallis (180-78) chipped in 18 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Giorgos Mprozos produced 20 points and 9 rebounds and swingman Nikos Kokkalis (198-85) added 16 points respectively for the guests. Arkadikos' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Ermis Lagkada moved-up to tenth place. Arkadikos lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with 14 games lost. Ermis Lagkada will face higher ranked Ikaroi Serron (#3) in Serres in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Arkadikos will play at home against Panerythraikos in New Eritrea.
Top scorers:
Ermis Lagkada: A.Panagiotopoulos 25+6reb+1ast, D.Rallis 18+6reb+7ast, N.Gamouras 18+4reb, G.Anagnostopoulos 7+6reb+2ast, S.Nisiotis 6+6reb+1ast, H.Plioukas 4+3reb+3ast
Arkadikos: G.Mprozos 20+9reb+2ast, N.Kokkalis 16+2reb, D.Katiakos 8+3reb+1ast, V.Giannoulakos 8+3reb+1ast, V.Morfis 8+1reb+1ast, S.Gizogiannis 5+2reb+1ast
gschID: 98936




Stats Leaders - A2
Points Per Game
 Yiannis KAKIOUZIS
  Lavrio
  (205-F-78)
  Avg: 18
 1. Kakiouzis, Lavrio18.0 
 2. Gizogiannis, AEK/A.17.4 
 3. Koutroulias, Olimp.17.2 
 4. Pettas, Koroivos17.1 
 5. Argyropoylos, Apol.16.8 
 6. Totsios, Ikaroi S.16.1 
 7. Giannakopoul., Lav.15.9 
 8. Michalos, Pagrati15.5 
 9. Vasilopoulos, Pagr.15.3 
 10. Vardavas, Amynta.15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Apostolos KOUTROULIAS
  Olimp.
  (206-C-76)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Koutroulias, Olimp.9.6 
 2. Pantelic, Apollo.9.0 
 3. Latovic, AGOR8.6 
 4. Gizogiannis, AEK/A.8.3 
 5. Kartelo, AE.7.5 
 6. Amato, Near East7.3 
 7. Lolas, Pagrati7.3 
 8. Macheras, Pagrati7.3 
 9. Vardavas, Amynta.6.9 
 10. Kakiouzis, Lavrio6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Thomas NIKOU
  Panelefs.
  (185-G-79)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Nikou, Panelefs.5.8 
 2. Katsares, KAOD5.0 
 3. Zoupas, Amyntas4.8 
 4. Kaberidis, Ikaroi4.3 
 5. Argyropoylos, Apol.4.2 
 6. Vasilopoulos, Pagr.4.2 
 7. Giannakopoul., Lav.4.2 
 8. Makris, Olimpiada4.2 
 9. Kiriakopoulo., AGOR3.9 
 10. Rallis, Ermis Lag.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Nikos KATSARES
  KAOD
  (190-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Katsares, KAOD2.5 
 2. Makris, Olimpiada2.1 
 3. Michalos, Pagrati1.9 
 4. Pettas, Koroivos1.9 
 5. Giannakopoul., Lav.1.8 
 6. Papadakis, Arkad.1.7 
 7. Pappas, Near East1.6 
 8. Sinnis, Lavrio1.5 
 9. Zoupas, Amyntas1.5 
 10. Nikou, Panelefs.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Djordje PANTELIC
  Apollo.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Pantelic, Apollo.1.9 
 2. Kartelo, AE.1.6 
 3. Kasabalis, AE.1.6 
 4. Jovanovic, KAOD1.3 
 5. Mprozos, Arkadikos0.9 
 6. Margaritis, KAOD0.8 
 7. Amato, Near East0.7 
 8. Papachristos, Peri.0.7 
 9. Karavanas, Panery.0.7 
 10. Psathas, Apollon0.7 


Standings - A2
A2 Standings
 1. KAOD 25-4 
 2. AGOR 19-10 
 3. Ikaroi Serron 18-11 
 4. Lavrio 17-12 
 5. Arkadikos 15-14 
 6. Apollon Patras 15-14 
 7. Amyntas Dafnis 15-14 
 8. Panelefsiniakos 15-14 
 9. AEK/Argous 14-15 
 10. Ermis Lagkada 13-16 
 11. Periko/Arhelaos 12-17 
 12. Olimpiada 12-17 
 13. Pagrati 12-17 
 14. Koroivos 11-18 
 15. Panerythraikos 11-18 
 16. Near East 8-21 


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


Peter Rijsewijk passed away - by Fred Roggen
Former Dutch National team player Peter Rijsewijk passed away on Friday at the age of 65. Rijsewijk played 75 games for the Dutch National team and played almost his entire career for Landlust Amsterdam. He played from 1962 till 1976 in the Dutch Eredivisie (now DBL), with the exception of two seasons with Racing Agon (1971-1973), he played his entire career for Landlust Amsterdam what we known today as ABC Amsterdam.

Rijsewijk made in 1964 his debut in the Dutch National team. With his 16 years, Peter Rijsewijk was the youngest debutant in the Dutch National team ever.


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


IBL's Bellingham Slam win nail biter over Vancouver Volcanoes 107-106 - by Trask Frost
BELLINGHAM, Wash. The Bellingham Slam nearly fumbled away a double-digit lead in the fourth quarter, but still prevailed over the Vancouver Volcanoes, 107-106, in a back-and-forth International Basketball League game at Whatcom Pavilion on Friday.

The win marked the first ever single-point victory in the teams six-year history.

After guard Morris Anderson connected on one of two free throws with 16 seconds left to give the Slam a one-point lead, Vancouver guard Andre Murray played for the last shot and had two would-be game-winning shots miss.

Bellingham began the game shooting well, and put up 34 points the first quarter to lead 34-26.

But it was nearly all Vancouver in the second quarter, as they held the Slam to 15 points and took a 55-49 lead into halftime.

In the third quarter, the momentum shifted back to Bellingham thanks to a combined 13 points from forwards Blake Poole and Michael Duty, with the Slam outscoring the Volcanoes 37-23 to go up by eight, at 86-76.

After a Poole three-pointer put the Slam up by 11, at 95-84 with 7:39 to play, the Volcanoes began chipping away at the lead and tied the game at 106-106 with 29 seconds left on a dunk by Lawrence Blackledge, leading to the dramatic final moments.

Anderson led the Slam with 21 points, while Ira Graham had another strong game with 19.

Blackledge finished with a game-high 26 points for Vancouver.

The two teams will battle in the second game of a home-and-home series on Saturday, with a 7 p.m. tip-off scheduled for Vancouvers OConnell Sports Complex.

For more information, contact the Slam at (360) 734-SLAM or visit their website at www.bellinghamslam.com


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


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


Mahram edge Smart Gilas to reach Asia Club Championship Final - by Eurobasket News
Mahram - Smart Gilas 80:77

Mahram became the first Asia Club Championship finalists. They overcame Smart Gilas in a dramatic clash in front of a sell-out crowd at the Philsports Arena. Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) stepped up for two-time defending champions scoring 19 points including three crucial free throws late in regulation.
The lead changed hands throughout the opening frame before Joseph Evans Casio (177-PG-86) capped it with a three-pointer giving Smart Gilas a 21:20 lead. Mahram erased the deficit and spurred in front late in the second quarter. Chris Williams ensured a 45:39 lead for Mahram heading into the dressing room. The margin grew at 7-point mark after a three-pointer from Cheikh Samb (215-C-84). But Marcio Lassiter (188-G-87, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) and Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) helped Smart Gilas deny the deficit. Joseph Evans Casio crowned the third quarter with another treble as the teams were tied at 62. Mahram quickly returned a 6-point advantage in the final term. Chris Williams made it 77:69 with under four minutes to go. The defending champions led by 7 points with under a minute to go but Tiu first converted a layup and then hit a three-pointer following a steal from Marcio Lassiter. Samad Nikkhah knocked down just one free throw, while Joseph Evans Casio accounted for two points to drag Smart Gilas within one 77:78 with 11 seconds to go. Samad Nikkhah stepped on the line once again and went deadly to boost the gap to three points. Mark Barroca (198-F/C-88) and Marcio Lassiter had chances to save the game for Smart Gilas but missed their attempts from beyond the arc. Mahdi Kamrani (181-G-82) and Cheikh Samb accounted for 17 points each in the win. Samb added 13 rebounds to his tally. Marcus Douthit responded with 25 points and 13 rebounds for Smart Gilas. Joseph Evans Casio had 21 points in the loss.

Mahram: Samad Nikkhah 19, Cheikh Samb 17+13 boards, Mahdi Kamrani 17
Smart Gilas: Marcus Douthit 25+13 boards, Joseph Evans Casio 21


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


ASU tame Duhok in Manila - by Eurobasket News
ASU - Duhok 98:90

Late surge propelled ASU past Duhok in the classification round of Asia Club Championship. ASU will now take on Jalaa for the fifth overall position. Duhok will wrap up their campaign against Ittihad. Islam Abbaas (201-C-80) notched 32 points and 14 rebounds to carry ASU past Duhok who played without Chudney Gray.
ASU opened the game with 11 unanswered points to surge ahead. The Jordanian side scored eagerly in the opening frame and recorded a 30:17 advantage after ten minutes. Duhok used a 20:6 run midway through the second frame to erase the deficit. ASU though gained back the lead late in the half and posted a 50:43 lead at the interval. Duhok went on a 19:3 run early in the third term and secured a 5-point advantage. They maintained the advantage and entered the final term up by 2 points 69:67. But Wesam Al Sous, Islam Abbaas and Osama Daghlas (199-G-79, college: Midwestern St.) pulled ASU in front 85:81 midway through the final stanza. Islam Abbaas and Zaid Abbas boosted the margin to 9 points with under three minutes to go. Duhok failed to recover in the dying minutes and had to surrender at the end. Osama Daghlas notched 17 points and 12 assists, while Enver Soobzokov (198-G/F-78, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) provided 14 points in the winning effort. Chester Giles (211-F/C-85, college: Oregon St.) replied with 24 points and 10 rebounds for Duhok. Qutaiba Al-Doori (198-F-80) finished with 19 points in the loss.

ASU: Islam Abbaas 32+14 boards, Osama Daghlas 17+12 assists, Enver Soobzokov 14
Duhok: Chester Giles 24+10 boards, Qutaiba Al-Doori 19


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


Chuck Eidson Signs with Regal Barcelona - by David Pick
According to reports, after informing Maccabi Tel Aviv last week that he is turning down their two year, $2.4 million offer, American forward Chuck Eidson signed a two year contract with Spanish power house, Regal Barcelona,

Eidson, turned down offers from Euroleague teams including Real Madrid, CSKA Moscow and Fenerbahce Ulker, and will earn a reported 4 million in Catalonia.
Eidson, who is now on vacation in the States with his family, will report to Barcelona's training camp come September, as the team hopes for a more successful season then the previous one.

In Maccabi's two Euroleague losses to Barcelona this past season, Eidson posted a combined 67 minutes, 17 points (7-21 from the field), 6 rebounds and 7 assists.
The American forward finished his last yellow-and-blue Euroleague season with averages of 9.7 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 28.8 minutes.
In the Israeli league, Eidson posted numbers that stood at 10 points, 4.3 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game on average, in a total of 25.2 minutes.

Eidson's signing with the red-and-blue squad might have implications on other players from the team's roster such as American shooting guard Alan Anderson. The two athletes who played two seasons ago for Maccabi, failed to achieve positive results both on and off the court.



Maccai Haifa Announce Gorke As Head Coach - by David Pick
Maccabi Haifa recently announced the continuation of head coach Mickey Gorke for the upcoming 2011-12 season due to his late success of stabilizing the team and keeping it in the Israeli division one after defeating Ashkelon in the relegation playoff series 3:1.

Gorke was the third and final head coach hired last season by American Owner, Jeff Rosen, after the two first coaches failed to bring results. Gorke managed to stabilize the team, finishing the season with a positive 7-5 record.

'Mickey proved to me that he has the coaching skills, character, and fortitude to be a successful head coach for Maccabi Haifa', said Rosen who added, 'He has been loyal to the team and it was no easy task to step right into an uncomfortable situation finishing the season on a positive note.'

Gorke himself commented by saying, 'I want to thank Jeff Rosen and Arnon Shiran for giving me the opportunity to become the head coach. It is a great honor for me and I will do my best to build a good team.'

During the 2008-2010 seasons, Gorke served as Haifa's assistant coach, reaching the Israeli championship finals in 2008-09.




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


Stats Leaders - SerieA
Points Per Game
 James WHITE
  Dinamo Sassari
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 20.2
 1. White, Dinamo Sass.20.2 
 2. Thomas, Air AV17.5 
 3. Rivers, CS Bologna17.2 
 4. Zoroski, Banca T.16.0 
 5. Ford, Fabi Shoes15.8 
 6. Hunter, Dinamo S.14.8 
 7. Goss, Cimberio VA14.8 
 8. Milic, Vanoli CR14.8 
 9. Roberson, Enel B.14.6 
 10. Dean, Air AV14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Ford, Fabi Shoes10.4 
 2. Jones, Pepsi C.8.6 
 3. Troutman, Air AV8.3 
 4. Davis, Banca Terc.8.2 
 5. Homan, CS Bologna8.1 
 6. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes8.0 
 7. Hunter, Dinamo S.7.8 
 8. Lang, Enel Brindisi7.8 
 9. Suton, Angelico BI7.4 
 10. Sanikidze, CS Bo.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Marques GREEN
  Air AV
  (170-G-82)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Green, Air AV6.8 
 2. Diener, Dinamo S.4.6 
 3. Sosa, Angelico BI4.5 
 4. Collins, Scavolin.3.9 
 5. Zoroski, Banca T.3.8 
 6. Rowland, Vanoli CR3.8 
 7. Goss, Cimberio VA3.8 
 8. Markovic, Benetton.3.5 
 9. Green, Bennet Can.3.4 
 10. Diener, Banca T.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Earl ROWLAND
  Vanoli CR
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Rowland, Vanoli CR2.9 
 2. Stonerook, Montep.2.8 
 3. Troutman, Air AV2.7 
 4. Goss, Cimberio VA2.7 
 5. Green, Air AV2.7 
 6. Thomas, Air AV2.5 
 7. Collins, Scavolin.2.4 
 8. McCalebb, Montepa.2.4 
 9. Hackett, Scavolin.2.4 
 10. Dasic, Lottomati.2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Ford, Fabi Shoes2.3 
 2. Eze, Armani MI1.4 
 3. Crosariol, Lottoma.1.3 
 4. Toure, Enel Brindi.1.2 
 5. Szewczyk, Air AV1.0 
 6. Lang, Enel Brindisi1.0 
 7. Hunter, Dinamo S.1.0 
 8. Polonara, Banca T.0.9 
 9. Cusin, Scavolini PS0.9 
 10. Homan, CS Bologna0.8 


SerieA Round 3 of Semi-Finals. Montepaschi Siena reach Finals - by Eurobasket News
Armani MI - Bennet Cantu 70-56

Armani Jeans cut the deficit in the series versus Bennet Cantu. The game was mostly controlled by Armani Milano. Bennet Cantu managed to win second period 19-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great evening for American guard David Hawkins (194-82, college: Temple) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. International forward Stefano Mancinelli (203-83) helped adding 10 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Armani Milano's coach Dan Peterson used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was Serbian forward Marko Scekic (207-81, agency: Beo Basket) with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds and Georgian guard Manuchar Markoishvili (195-86) scored 7 points and 6 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Bennet Cantu: M.Scekic 15+11reb, V.Micov 9+3reb+2ast, D.Marconato 8+4reb, M.Leunen 7+4reb+1ast, M.Markoishvili 7+6reb+2ast, M.Green 5+1reb+2ast
Armani MI: D.Hawkins 18+5reb+5ast, L.Greer 11+2reb+1ast, S.Mancinelli 10+8reb+4ast, B.Eze 8+2reb, I.Jaaber 7+3reb, M.Petravicius 6+2reb
gschID: 129057


Benetton TV - Montepaschi 56-68

Montepaschi Siena swept the series against Benetton earning victory in Treviso. Benetton Treviso was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 39-25 second half run of Montepaschi Siena. They made 26-of-34 charity shots (76.5 percent) during the game. They also forced 25 Benetton Treviso turnovers. Benetton Treviso was plagued by 33 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a quality performance for Lithuanian center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) who led the winners and scored 15 points and 6 rebounds. American-FYR Macedonian guard Bo Lester McCalebb (183-85, college: New Orleans) accounted for 17 points and 4 steals for the winning side. Montepaschi Siena's coach Simone Pianigiani allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American swingman Devin Smith (196-81, college: Virginia) came up with 15 points and swingman Alessandro Gentile (198-92) added 11 points respectively for Benetton Treviso in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Benetton TV: D.Smith 15, A.Gentile 11+4reb, D.Motiejunas 10+3reb, H.Peric 9+5reb, S.Nicevic 4+1reb, G.Brunner 3+4reb
Montepaschi: B.Lester McCalebb 17+3reb, K.Lavrinovic 15+6reb+1ast, P.Aradori 12+7reb, M.Hairston 9+4reb+3ast, S.Stonerook 4+3reb+1ast, R.Kaukenas 4+3reb+2ast
gschID: 129056




Rok Stipcevic signs new contract with Varese - by Eurobasket News
Cimberio Varese renewed the contract of Rok Stipcevic (188-PG-86). The sides have agreed on terms of 2-year deal. The Croatian 25-year-old guard joined the Italian team back in February. He averaged 9.3 points, 3.2 assists and 2.5 rebounds per game in Seria A. Rok Stipcevic started the season in Cibona Zagreb. He averaged 10.3 points, 4.1 assists and 2.8 rebounds in Euroleague. In Adriatic League the guard provided 9.8 points, 3.2 assists and 1.9 rebounds per appearance. Earlier Rok Stipcevic played for Zadar for seven straight seasons. Rok Stipcevic played for Croatia at 2010 World Championship in Turkey. Earlier he appeared on U18 and U20 Croatian rosters.


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  JAPAN   


Shiga Lakestars hire Al Westover - by Eurobasket News
Shiga Lakestars appointed Al Westover as the teams new head coach. The Australian specialist had been working with the Melbourne Tigers from 2005. He was fired back February. Al Westover will replace Hirokazu Nema on the bridge. Nema took the reins back in February and led the Lakestars to 11-5 record. Hirokazu Nema will return as Al Westover's assistant in the next season.


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  JORDAN   


ASU tame Duhok in Manila - by Eurobasket News
ASU - Duhok 98:90

Late surge propelled ASU past Duhok in the classification round of Asia Club Championship. ASU will now take on Jalaa for the fifth overall position. Duhok will wrap up their campaign against Ittihad. Islam Abbaas (201-C-80) notched 32 points and 14 rebounds to carry ASU past Duhok who played without Chudney Gray.
ASU opened the game with 11 unanswered points to surge ahead. The Jordanian side scored eagerly in the opening frame and recorded a 30:17 advantage after ten minutes. Duhok used a 20:6 run midway through the second frame to erase the deficit. ASU though gained back the lead late in the half and posted a 50:43 lead at the interval. Duhok went on a 19:3 run early in the third term and secured a 5-point advantage. They maintained the advantage and entered the final term up by 2 points 69:67. But Wesam Al Sous, Islam Abbaas and Osama Daghlas (199-G-79, college: Midwestern St.) pulled ASU in front 85:81 midway through the final stanza. Islam Abbaas and Zaid Abbas boosted the margin to 9 points with under three minutes to go. Duhok failed to recover in the dying minutes and had to surrender at the end. Osama Daghlas notched 17 points and 12 assists, while Enver Soobzokov (198-G/F-78, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) provided 14 points in the winning effort. Chester Giles (211-F/C-85, college: Oregon St.) replied with 24 points and 10 rebounds for Duhok. Qutaiba Al-Doori (198-F-80) finished with 19 points in the loss.

ASU: Islam Abbaas 32+14 boards, Osama Daghlas 17+12 assists, Enver Soobzokov 14
Duhok: Chester Giles 24+10 boards, Qutaiba Al-Doori 19


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  LATVIA   


Belarus edge Latvia in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U19 - Belarus U20 57:65

Belarus U20 celebrated the win over Latvian U19 counterparts in the first game of friendly series in Riga. Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) scored 20 points to pace the visitors.
Latvia ensured the better start to the game. The hosts stayed in charge and recorded a 14:12 lead after ten minutes. But Belarus turned things around in the second frame. They outgunned Latvia 23:9 in the second period to post a 35:23 halftime lead. Latvian U19 selection tried to erase the deficit in the third term. They narrowed the deficit at 10-point mark with one quarter to go. Latvia got even closer in the final stanza. The hosts trailed by just six points 49:55 but Belarus stayed calm in the dying minutes and earned the victory at the end. Valientin Ihnatchyk (192-G-91) nailed 13 points, while Alieksei Kachan (187-G-91) added 12 points for the winners. Andrejs Grazulis (198-F-93) accounted for 12 points for Latvia. Rihards Zebergs (186-F-92) provided 9 points, while Edvards Bagatskis finished with 7 in the loss.

Latvia U19: Andrejs Grazulis 12, Rihards Zebergs 9, Edvards Bagatskis 7
Belarus U20: Vitali Liutych 20, Valientin Ihnatchyk 13, Alieksei Kachan 12


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  LEBANON   


Peter Schomers replaces Baldwin as Lebanon's NT coach!! - by Rabih Khoury
Finally the Lebanese Basketball Federation signed with German coach Peter Schomers to take on the Lebanese NT for the Asian Cup in September 2011... Both sides agreed on terms on saturday and Shomers will be the head coach for the next 4 months. Schomers is a known personality to the Lebanese public where he lead Hoops two seasons ago to the Final 4 and a good participation in the WABA 2010 competition.He coached Al Kuwait of Kuwait last season but failed to lead them to their target which was to win the Title.
He will have two upcoming tests with the WABA Championships in Iraq and the King Abdallah International Tournament in July in Amman.
National Team practices will start on Tuesday in a 2 practice per day program.

Riyadi storm into Asia Club Championship Final - by Eurobasket News
Riyadi - Rayyan 71:52

Riyadi joined Mahram in the championship game at Asia Club Championship. The Lebanese powerhouse left no chance for Rayyan of Qatar in todays second semifinal clash. Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) stepped up with 25 points and 12 rebounds to pace Riyadi. Rayyan will take on Smart Gilas in the Bronze medals game tomorrow.
Riyadi opened the game with 13 points in a row to set the tone. They recorded a 19:8 lead after ten minutes of action. The margin kept on growing throughout the second frame. Riyadi arrived at halftime up by 17 points 38:21. Rayyan struggled to get any closer in the third term. Riyadi dominated in every facet of the game entering the final term up by as many as 18 points 53:35. Riyadi did not loosen the grip and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) delivered 18 points, while Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) added 6 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Targuy Ngombo (198-F-89, agency: Court Side) answered with 15 points for Rayyan. Yasseen Musa (204-F-80) accounted for 13 points in the losing effort.

Riyadi: Ahmad Ismail 25+12 boards, Fadi Khatib 18, Loren Woods 6+11 boards
Rayyan: Targuy Ngombo 15, Yasseen Musa 13


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  LITHUANIA   


Brasas heads to Naestved - by Deividas Valiunas
Team FOG Naestved strengthened their frontcourt. They have agreed on terms of contract with Lithuanian forward Nerijus Brasas (200-F-85) . The deal is meant for two seasons. The 26-year-old Lithuanian played for Amager over the last three years. Last season the forward averaged 21.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game for Amager. Nerijus Brasas was named Eurobasket.com All-Danish Basketligaen Bosman Player of the Year in 2011. In 2001/04 seasons Nerijus Brasas played for Neptunas Klaipeda.

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  MOROCCO   


The Semifinals are set - by Eurobasket News
The Semifinals are set in the League and the first game to be played tonight. CRA Hoceima plays versus the winner of Group A ASS Sale. In another Semifinal RCA Casablanka will face WAC Casablanca on June 6th. The second games will be played on June 8th.





Standings - Men
D1 Stage Two Standings
Group A
 1. ASS Sale 3-1 
 2. RCA Casabl. 3-1 
 3. FUS Rabat 0-4 
Group B
 1. WAC Casabl. 2-2 
 2. RSB Berkane 2-2 
 3. CRA Hoceima 2-2 
Places 7-10
 1. PCS Plazza C. 8-10 
 2. MAF Fez 7-11 
 3. IRT Tanger 5-13 
 4. ASE Essaou. 1-17 
Stage One Standings


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  NBA   


Was this a Mavericks miracle or a Heat choke? - by Milord Nikolic
It was simply the biggest collapse on the biggest stage, and even the Big 3 were utterly helpless to stop it. In a six-minute span that caved in on Miami like a massive sinkhole Thursday night, the Heat saw its NBA championship hopes turn perilous. Stunning. Stunned. Heat fans, delirious with joy in the middle of the fourth quarter, emptied staggered into the downtown night after the club's first home loss of this postseason a defeat that will haunt if Miami can't recover from it now. We will find out, was this a Mavericks miracle or a Heat choke? Soon!

Brendan Haywood questionable for Game 3 - by Eurobasket News
Dallas Mavericks center Brendan Haywood (7'0''-C-79, college: N.Carolina) exited the court abruptly in Game 2 on Thursday night, heading to the locker room with a right hip flexor injury. On Saturday, Haywood sat out of contact portions of Mavericks practice and is listed as 'questionable' for Game 3 on Sunday night.

'He was not feeling well when he left the game, Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle said. If hes able to play Im sure hell play. If not well have to adjust.

'I kind of strained it before I left for Miami,' Haywood explained. 'When I got down there in Game 2, the wheels fell off a little bit.'

Haywood noted that he is feeling much improved from Thursday night, when he attempted to re-enter the game in the fourth quarter. 'The other day I couldn't move. In that fourth quarter, I tried to give it a go and I really couldn't move. It's way better today.'

The injury was of the non-contact variety, as Haywood said he first felt pain while trailing a play in transition. 'It really happened in the first half, on a fast break, trying to chase down the break. I felt something pull in my hip. In the fourth quarter when I tried to come back in I just kept feeling pops and pulls and I knew I couldn't be out there.'

While he didn't participate in on-court work, Haywood was present at the team's Saturday morning practice, although he was present, riding on an exercise bike and joking with his teammates. 'The bike and a lot of poolwork,' Haywood said of his injury maintenance program. 'Stuff like that to get it loosened up and get it going, but we didn't want to take any contact.'

Haywood has played surprisingly solid minutes for the Mavs so far in The Finals, even going far as hitting his free throws. His value isn't too high as Miami doesn't have a major post presence to defend, but in terms of toughness on the inside and rebounding, he's a solid option behind Tyson Chandler. He's averaging 3.3 points and 4.3 rebounds during 16.0 minutes per game during the postseason.

His absence would clearly impact Dallas' tight rotations.

'It's a game time decision with him,' Chandler said. 'If he's not able to go, we have some bigs that can fill the roles. Obviously he's needed out there.'

Chandler said the Mavericks could plug in reserve center Ian Mahinmi, who has played just six minutes total in the postseason, or could opt for a smaller second unit lineup as well should Haywood not be available. 'It changes our rotation a little bit,' Chandler said. 'I don't know what coach will do if he will go with Ian or go with a smaller lineup. They've been playing smaller lineups a lot of the time. If that's the case, we can throw a three, four type of guy out there. If they play big we have Ian Mahinmi. I'm sure he's been waiting and itching for that opportunity.'

Dallas' starting center is well aware that Haywood's absence would put more pressure on him to stay out of foul trouble, especially early. 'I've been trying to do that anyway,' Chandler said. 'Just so I can save them for the end of the game. I'm going to be aggressive but I want to play smart out there. Not get ticky-tack fouls.'

Haywood also noted that reserve center Brian Cardinal is another option. 'No matter who he puts in there, that person will be ready,' Haywood said. 'If you put Brian 'The Custodian' in there. He's going to be ready, he's going to be fouling, hitting his spot-up threes. We can put Ian in there, he's done well for us when he's had to play this season. We can go with a lot of different options.'

With his status uncertain for Game 3, Haywood was asked whether he was feeling confident that he would be available. He hesitated. 'Uh... I have no idea for tomorrow.'

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Mike D'Antoni wants to stay with Knicks - by Eurobasket News
The agent for New York Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni says the specter of a new team president with Donnie Walsh being reduced to a consultant does not change D'Antoni's desire to coach the team next season.

'This is the team Mike wants to coach,' said his agent, Warren LeGarie. 'He spent two years putting it in position not only to have a winning record but a playoff appearance. This is where he'd like to continue to coach as long as they want him.'

D'Antoni should find out just how committed the Knicks are to him fairly soon. He is entering the final year of a four-year contract that will pay him $6 million next season. Talk of extensions or contracts for anyone else in the organization were put on hold until Walsh's future was resolved.

Walsh, sources said, thought he had an oral agreement with Knicks owner James Dolan on a two-year extension that spelled out his level of authority, but when he received the actual written contract there was an addendum that undercut that authority. Apparently after several weeks of trying to get Dolan to remove the addendum, Walsh decided last night to relinquish his interest in remaining as team president, sources said.

Speculation from other team general managers is that Creative Artists Agency, which represents recently acquired superstar Carmelo Anthony as well as assistant general manager Allan Houston and consultant Mark Warkentien, will exert influence not only on who the Knicks hire to replace Walsh, but also whether D'Antoni is the Knicks coach beyond next season.

Former Knicks coach and team president Isiah Thomas, now the coach at Florida International, has strong ties with CAA, but Thomas told ESPNNewYork.com that he has no interest in replacing Walsh.

One source said that CAA officials were not happy with how Walsh and D'Antoni handled another one of their clients, Eddy Curry, before he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves as part of the February deal that brought Anthony to New York.

Courtesy of ESPN

Isiah Thomas says 'never say never' when asked by ESPN about replacing Donnie Walsh with Knicks - by Eurobasket News
Just hours after Donnie Walsh announced he was stepping down as Knicks' president, Isiah Thomas uttered the words that all Knicks fans fear:

'Never say never about anything,' Thomas said on ESPN's 'SportsCenter' Friday night when asked what he would do if Knicks owner James Dolan were to call him about replacing Walsh. 'All my doors are open.'

Thomas, who in 2008 left the Knicks disgraced by the Anucha Browne Sanders sexual harassment trial and verdict and a string of bad player moves, could be given another opportunity by Dolan, with whom he remains close.

Although the Knicks probably aren't ready to give Thomas a title just yet, Walsh had always served as the biggest hurdle to Thomas regaining control, whether as the official GM or de facto one. That hurdle is gone after Dolan declined to pick up the one-year option on Walsh's contract, and then low-balled him during extension negotiations.

In Thomas' interview on ESPN, he said Walsh put 'us' on the right track.

Loyal to the end, however, Walsh claimed he was too old and exhausted to continue as president and general manager, insisting his departure - announced by the team Friday morning - was mutual.

'I don't think Isiah Thomas had anything to do with basically anything I'm doing right now,' Walsh said Friday. 'I would say the attention it drew did annoy me at certain points, but not overly so. But it was an annoyance, it wasn't like really getting pissed off.'

However, as the Daily News first reported, Dolan told Walsh he must take a 40% pay cut for an extension, from $5 million to $3 million. He also refused to grant Walsh full autonomy, which was a sticking point after Dolan butted in and took over the Carmelo Anthony trade negotiations.

Never one to voice his problems publicly, Walsh swallowed his pride and left with kind words for Dolan, whose relationship with Thomas now looms as large as ever. According to a source, a Knicks employee with long ties to Thomas, Glen Grunwald, has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Walsh. Grunwald served as Thomas' assistant GM in Toronto and then in New York.

Grunwald, now the senior vice president of basketball operations, will serve as interim GM beginning in July. 'I basically had a good relationship with Jim,' Walsh said. 'He treated me very well. I never could understand the reports that we weren't getting along. I worked with owners before and there's a give-and-take all the time, but it never goes to the core of the relationship. That's the way I felt about Jim. I didn't think he and I were going to agree on everything.'

Although recent reports suggested Walsh was nearing a completion of a two-year extension, The News has learned that Dolan had asked Walsh to draw up a list of replacement candidates a month ago.

Walsh, 70, will move back to Indiana but stay with the Knicks as a consultant through next season. Knicks assistant GM Allan Houston is also a candidate for the vacant GM position, as well as former Trail Blazers GM Kevin Pritchard, former Hornets GM Jeff Bower and TV analyst Mark Jackson, who recently interviewed for the coaching position at Golden State.

Another intriguing candidate is Mark Warkentien, the former Nuggets GM who was hired as a Knicks consultant last season and has ties to the right people. Like Anthony and his good buddy, free-agent target Chris Paul, Warkentien is represented by Creative Artists Agency. Thomas also has a cozy relationship with CAA and its power broker, William Wesley, which he used to convince Dolan to get involved in the chases for LeBron James and Anthony.

Walsh, a longtime Pacers executive before his Knicks' tenure, said he doesn't plan on taking a GM job elsewhere, but wouldn't rule it out. He said running the Knicks was more exhausting than other jobs and, according to a source, he was bothered that Knicks executives allowed sponsors to have access to the locker room and team planes.

It's unclear whether coach Mike D'Antoni, a Walsh ally, will survive the front-office upheaval. The Raptors' coaching vacancy is an ideal position for D'Antoni, who has one year remaining on his contract.

Walsh indicated the coach wants to return.

In three seasons with the Knicks, Walsh gutted the team to clear cap space, failed to land James and picked up consolation prizes in Amar'e Stoudemire and Anthony. The Knicks made the playoffs for the first time in seven years this season, but will need the GM to acquire at least one more star player to compete with the Heat in the Eastern Conference. It's unclear whether the Knicks will have enough cap space to sign another max player under the yet-to-be negotiated CBA.

Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com

Paul Silas: Trade up in draft only for star - by Eurobasket News
Charlotte Bobcats coach Paul Silas is glad his front office is investigating ways to move up in the June 23 NBA draft.

Still, Silas has misgivings about converting picks Nos. 9 and 19 into one higher pick unless they're sure that one player would have big impact.

'We've talked about moving up. My point is that if we do move up, that guy has to be a star kind of player,' Silas said following the Bobcats' first pre-draft workout Thursday. 'I think we'll get two real quality players here, to build on what we've established already.'

Silas said he'd favor trading up 'if the guy is someone we think can really help us. But he has to potentially be better than what we have now. And looking at this draft, I'm not quite sure that guy is there. If he is, then we'll certainly look at it.'

The general consensus on this draft is it's short on star power, but relatively deep. Duke guard Kyrie Irving and Arizona forward Derrick Williams are expected to be the top two picks. While both are projected as solid pros, neither is expected to have the impact of recent high picks Derrick Rose of Chicago or Kevin Durant of Oklahoma City.

Silas, in his first season as Bobcats coach, was asked how the team's needs would blend with their draft decisions. For instance, this draft is strongest at power forward, and that's a position where the Bobcats already have abundant players.

'Absolutely, we want to draft the best player available,' Silas described. 'Now, if everything is equal, then certainly you wouldn't draft a four. But if the guy clearly is better than the rest of the people in that draft spot, then you'd take him.

'We really want some 3-point shooters - that's huge for us. If we had a backup point, as well as a great shooter, that's one of our basic needs.'

The Bobcats contingent watching workouts Thursday included owner Michael Jordan. Silas was asked how hands-on Jordan is, in addressing draft decisions.

'Rod (Higgins, the general manager) and I will make the final decisions, I think, but he certainly has input,' Silas said of Jordan. 'If we come up with somebody he doesn't necessarily care for, he lets us know. But the (final) decision will be ours.'

Courtesy of www.charlotteobserver.com

Rockets center Miller reveals he had microfracture surgery - by Eurobasket News
Houston center Brad Miller (6'11''-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: Purdue) revealed on Saturday that he had microfracture surgery on his left knee in mid-May and expects to be out of action for at least six months.

Speaking while on crutches to a crowd of approximately 6,000 Sacramento fans at Power Balance Pavilion, the former Kings big man mentioned the medical news that had not been public knowledge to that point. He underwent arthroscopic surgery on the knee last summer and missed 22 games because of the knee this season. Miller had returned to play the final four games, but said he questioned whether he could make it through another season if he didn't do the procedure.

But given his age (35) and miles logged in the league (13 seasons), the idea that he will return at all can't be considered a certainty.

'After getting it scoped [arthroscopic surgery] last summer, I just had issues with it again this year, so I saw another doctor, and two doctors said it would be the best thing to do,' Miller said.

The infamous microfracture procedure is always a major threat to a player's leaping ability, speed and longevity. That was the case for Miller's former teammate in Sacramento, forward Chris Webber, whose career was never the same after he had the surgery in 2003.

Yet as Miller joked, his situation is quite different. The veteran who went undrafted out of Purdue has long been known as one of the league's least-athletic and slowest players, making the most of his basketball IQ, passing ability and offensive versatility.

'I ain't got much vertical to get back [and] it's really not going to slow me down,' he said. '[The doctors] said, 'You're the ideal candidate for this. A non-jumping, slow white guy. You shouldn't really lose much.' No explosiveness is going to be lost here.'

It doesn't sound as if longevity is much of a factor, either, as Miller has one year worth $4.7 million (plus a final year worth less than $1 million guaranteed) remaining on his deal with the Rockets and is noncommittal on the idea of playing any longer. He averaged just 6.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 17 minutes per game last season, having signed with Houston as backup to Yao Ming.

'I'll play next year, and see how I feel after that,' he said. 'That's as far as I'm thinking right now.'

Miller will be taking directions from a new coach once he returns, as Rick Adelman and the Rockets parted ways in mid-April and Kevin McHale was hired last week.

'I've been playing phone tag with [McHale],' Miller said. 'From what I heard, he's a great person, and everybody knows he was a great player. I just want to see what kind of coaching style he has, and just figure him out.'

Miller knew Adelman as well as anyone, having played under him in Sacramento for six seasons, and said he wasn't surprised by the change.

'Not really [surprised], after being there,' he said. 'If I wasn't there all year, then I would've been surprised. But after being there, I wasn't too surprised. Disappointed, but wasn't too surprised ... It is what it is.'

While Miller isn't ready to retire just yet, he discussed a former foe who hung up his jersey this week: Shaquille O' Neal, who famously swung and missed at Miller during a fight in 2002 and nearly leveled him in a game between the Lakers and Chicago.

'I can remember many ice packs after playing Shaq, telling our coach, 'I ain't got nothing for you' the next day,' Miller said. 'He took your full effort, amount of energy, and you had to be ready to take some blows for sure.'

Had O'Neal connected with his forceful swing, Miller quipped that his rehabilitation would have been far more arduous than the one he will have to go through now.

'I would've probably had a lot more [money] in my bank account and not have to do anything,' he said. 'I might have been eating out of a spoon, or a straw, but I would've had more in my account because I couldn't go nowhere.'

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

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  NCAA1   


Penn State tabs BU's Chambers as hoops coach - by Eurobasket News
Penn State chose Boston University's Patrick Chambers to take over its men's basketball program, capping a whirlwind coaching search following the surprise departure of Ed DeChellis to Navy.

The former Villanova assistant led the Terriers to their first America East title and NCAA Tournament in nine seasons this spring, losing in the second round to Kansas. The Terriers won with an up-tempo offense while focusing on defense, ranking 23rd in the nation in field-goal defense (39.9 percent). Chambers was 42-28 at Boston, where he took over in 2009. Now, he moves up to lead his own power conference program, though Penn State has had trouble stringing together winning seasons and attracting top recruits.

DeChellis' resignation came after the Nittany Lions' first NCAA appearance in a decade, a 66-64 loss to Temple.

Courtesy of www.stltoday.com

Frank Martin: No Miami, no problem! - by Milord Nikolic
Frank Martin didn't have a choice to make about whether to leave Kansas State for the head-coaching job at Miami. The Hurricanes never called Martin, who grew up playing hoops across the street from the Orange Bowl. There was a concerted effort by at least one representative of Martin's and plenty of his friends and followers in his hometown to get the Canes to hire the K-State coach as Frank Haith's replacement in Coral Gables. The call never came. Miami made a run at Harvard's Tommy Amaker and then scooped up George Mason's Jim Larranaga in what turned out to be a surprise hire. Martin said he wasn't bothered that he was never a candidate at Miami, a job that would have paid him less in a league where it's harder to ascend to the top with North Carolina and Duke locked in as the prohibitive favorites on a yearly basis.




Former Rutgers coach set to join NU as assistant - by Eurobasket News
Barring a late snag, Northwestern on Monday will announce the hiring of former Rutgers coach Fred Hill .

The Tribune reported last month that NU coach Bill Carmody had interviewed Hill to replace Mitch Henderson, who left to take the head coaching position at Princeton.

Hill, 52, viewed as a strong East Coast recruiter, left Rutgers under unusual circumstances. After a Rutgers baseball game, he reportedly got into a profanity-laced shouting match with opposing coaches from Pittsburgh. Hill's father, Fred Sr., has coached the Scarlet Knights baseball team since 1984.

Hill's uncle, Brian Hill, coached the Orlando Magic and Vancouver Grizzlies.

Within two weeks of the baseball game incident, Hill accepted a buyout from Rutgers, where he went 47-77 in four seasons.

Courtesy of www.chicagobreakingsports.com

Smaller Big 12 expands tournament byes to six - by Eurobasket News
Finishing among the top six in the regular season will be rewarded with a first-round bye in the redesigned men's and women's Big 12 basketball tournaments.

It's one of the last adjustments the league had to make after Colorado and Nebraska dropped out this year and reduced the league to 10. As a 12-team league, only the top four teams got byes.

Under the new format, seeds No. 8 and 9 and 7 and 10 will play on the first day. Then the quarterfinals will match No. 4 vs. No. 5, No. 3 vs. No. 6, No. 1 vs. the 8-9 winner and No. 2 vs. the 7-10 winner.

The league spent several months studying various possibilities before adopting the new plan at its annual meetings on Thursday.

'It went through our coaches groups, went through our administrative groups, went all the way up the ladder,' said commissioner Dan Beebe. 'I think there was consideration of all sorts of formats. After all the discussion and debates about various benefits and detriments of other formats, it ended up unanimous.'

The league also decided the men's and women's tournaments would run concurrently, Wednesday through Saturday. Last year, the women had an off day between the semifinals and championship game.

'They felt more comfortable eliminating the off day,' said conference spokesman Bob Burda. 'They felt if they ended on Sunday it would be somewhat anticlimactic since the men's championship would have occurred the previous day.'

In another decision that may have more far-reaching implications than are apparent, the Big 12 voted to sponsor championships in rowing and equestrian, adding both as women's sports. Presently, only Kansas, Kansas State, Texas and Oklahoma have rowing teams and only Kansas State, Oklahoma State, Baylor and Texas A&M have equestrian.

But making these sports subject to conference eligibility requirements means they can help schools neutralize football's impact on Title IX gender requirements.

Squad limits will be 52 for rowing and 32 for equestrian.

'The feeling is as institutions go forward and look at possible expansion, they'll look at those two activities,' said Beebe. 'We are increasing tremendously the opportunities for women.'

The conference also voted to increase from $7,500 to $9,000 the Prentice Gautt postgraduate scholarship awards that are given every year to two student-athletes at each Big 12 school.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

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


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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Jack LEASURE
  Taranaki.
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 23.3
 1. Leasure, Taranaki.23.3 
 2. Abercrombie, Waika.20.8 
 3. Hudson, Manawatu.20.7 
 4. Webster, Wellingt.20.3 
 5. Dora, Nelson G.19.4 
 6. Smith, Waikato P.19.4 
 7. Pace, Bay Hawks19.1 
 8. Bradshaw, OceanaG.18.9 
 9. Polyblank, Southla.18.7 
 10. Campbell, Taranak.18.4 
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.10.5 
 4. Campbell, Taranaki.10.5 
 5. Allred, OceanaGo.10.1 
 6. Seay, Waikato P.9.3 
 7. Johnson, Wellingt.9.0 
 8. Bradshaw, OceanaG.8.8 
 9. Dickens, Southlan.8.7 
 10. Grizzard, Nelson8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Jason CROWE
  Waikato P.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Crowe, Waikato P.6.9 
 2. Dickel, Southland6.1 
 3. Tait, Wellington S.5.8 
 4. Braswell, Southlan.5.2 
 5. Martin, Auckland.4.8 
 6. Kench, Manawatu J.4.4 
 7. Smith, Waikato P.3.8 
 8. Boucher, Auckland.3.4 
 9. Jones, Nelson G.3.2 
 10. Webster, Wellingt.3.1 
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. Kench, Manawatu J.2.0 
 6. Dickel, Southland1.8 
 7. Allen, Waikato P.1.7 
 8. Frank, Wellington1.6 
 9. Braswell, Southlan.1.6 
 10. Vukona, Nelson G.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Alex PLEDGER
  Waika.
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Pledger, Waika.3.3 
 2. Allred, OceanaGo.1.6 
 3. Seay, Waikato P.1.5 
 4. Iti, Southland S.1.3 
 5. Spicer, Southlan.1.2 
 6. Anthony, Waika.1.1 
 7. Campbell, Taranaki.1.1 
 8. Vukona, Nelson G.1.0 
 9. Brown, Auckland P.1.0 
 10. Johnson, Wellingt.0.9 


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


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


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


Mahram edge Smart Gilas to reach Asia Club Championship Final - by Eurobasket News
Mahram - Smart Gilas 80:77

Mahram became the first Asia Club Championship finalists. They overcame Smart Gilas in a dramatic clash in front of a sell-out crowd at the Philsports Arena. Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) stepped up for two-time defending champions scoring 19 points including three crucial free throws late in regulation.
The lead changed hands throughout the opening frame before Joseph Evans Casio (177-PG-86) capped it with a three-pointer giving Smart Gilas a 21:20 lead. Mahram erased the deficit and spurred in front late in the second quarter. Chris Williams ensured a 45:39 lead for Mahram heading into the dressing room. The margin grew at 7-point mark after a three-pointer from Cheikh Samb (215-C-84). But Marcio Lassiter (188-G-87, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) and Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) helped Smart Gilas deny the deficit. Joseph Evans Casio crowned the third quarter with another treble as the teams were tied at 62. Mahram quickly returned a 6-point advantage in the final term. Chris Williams made it 77:69 with under four minutes to go. The defending champions led by 7 points with under a minute to go but Tiu first converted a layup and then hit a three-pointer following a steal from Marcio Lassiter. Samad Nikkhah knocked down just one free throw, while Joseph Evans Casio accounted for two points to drag Smart Gilas within one 77:78 with 11 seconds to go. Samad Nikkhah stepped on the line once again and went deadly to boost the gap to three points. Mark Barroca (198-F/C-88) and Marcio Lassiter had chances to save the game for Smart Gilas but missed their attempts from beyond the arc. Mahdi Kamrani (181-G-82) and Cheikh Samb accounted for 17 points each in the win. Samb added 13 rebounds to his tally. Marcus Douthit responded with 25 points and 13 rebounds for Smart Gilas. Joseph Evans Casio had 21 points in the loss.

Mahram: Samad Nikkhah 19, Cheikh Samb 17+13 boards, Mahdi Kamrani 17
Smart Gilas: Marcus Douthit 25+13 boards, Joseph Evans Casio 21


Thoughts on the Semifinals of the 2011 FIBA-Asia Champions Cup - by Enzo Flojo
- Jala'a and ASU pretty much played all-local in defeating Ittihad and Duhok respectively. This shows the quality of each squad and the power of their NT since the cores of these teams represent their respective NTs too. Jordan, in particular, should be much stronger when they have a complete roster including Zaid Al-Khas, Rasheim Wright, Jamal Abu-Shamala and Jamal Maaytah.
- It was a heartbreaking defeat for Gilas as they proved to be at par with the Iranians. I'm not so sure if I agree with Rajko Toroman (agency: Agency No 10 ) saying that Mahram is stronger than the real Iran NT (well they do have 2 big imports!), but they did show a lot of strength on defense and in rebounding. They also emphasized Gilas's perennial weakness, which is size at the 4 and 3 positions. Nobody could guard Bahrami!
- Al Riyadi coasted past Qatar and they are the favorites to upend Mahram in today's championship match. It should be another classic mano-a-mano affair between Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) and Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83, agency: SportsList Inc.)!
Predictions: ASU over Al Jala'a in a close match, Duhok over Ittihad in single digits, Gilas over Rayyan in less than 5 and Riyadi repeats over Mahram in a nail-biter.

More on HoopNut.blogspot.com

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


BSN Round 21: Leader Vaqueros lose to Mets - by Eurobasket News
The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with defeat of the leader, extra overtimes and games ending by tiny margin.

Top ranked Vaqueros (14-8) recorded its eighth loss in Bayamon on Thursday night. Hosts were edged by second ranked Mets (14-9) in overtime 98-97. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Vaqueros. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. The guests trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 17-15 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 1-point victory in overtime. 25 personal fouls committed by Vaqueros helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American center Shaun Pruitt (208-85, college: Illinois, agency: Edge Sports) who had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 16 rebounds. International swingman Angel Daniel Vassallo (198-86, college: Virginia Tech) chipped in 28 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Mets' coach Raymond Dalmau used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international guard Christian Dalmau (194-77, college: Daytona Beach CC, agency: Paris Global Sports) who recorded 30 points and 6 rebounds. Mets maintains second place with 14-9 record having just -1 point less than leader Bayamon. Vaqueros at the other side still keep top position with eight games lost. Mets are looking forward to face Maratonistas (#9) in Coamo in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Vaqueros will play at home against Caciques (#7) in Humacao and are hoping to win this game.

The best stats of 21th round was 28 points and 8 rebounds by Ricky Sanchez of Santurce.


Quebradillas - San German 77-82

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 4th placed Quebradillas (13-10) were defeated at home by fifth ranked Atleticos (13-9) 82-77 on Friday. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 40-33 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 12 rebounds. International point guard Filiberto Rivera (190-82, college: UTEP) chipped in 22 points. Atleticos' coach Nelson Colon allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international swingman Joel Jones (196-81, college: Sacramento St.) who recorded 19 points and 9 rebounds and naturalized American power forward Angel Alamo (206-85) added 16 points respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Atleticos moved-up to fourth place. Loser Quebradillas dropped to the fifth position with ten games lost. Atleticos will have a break next round. Quebradillas will play on the road against Capitanes (#6) in Arecibo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
San German: M.Harris 24+12reb+1ast, F.Rivera 22+2reb+3ast, J.Lloreda 14+6reb, J.Nieves 10+5reb+1ast, J.Pellot-Rosa 9+7reb+2ast, M.De Jesus 3+1reb
Quebradillas: J.Jones 19+9reb+2ast, A.Alamo 16+3reb+3ast, M.Worthington 13+6reb+2ast, C.Bruton 12+2reb+2ast, R.Apodaca 7+2reb+6ast, P.John Ramos 4+6reb+2ast
gschID: 125580


Isabela - Arecibo 68-78

No shocking result in a game in Isabela where sixth ranked Capitanes (13-11) defeated bottom-ranked Gallitos (7-17) 78-68 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Capitanes. Gallitos was better in fourth quarter 20-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American-Panamanian guard Danilo Pinnock (196-83, college: George Washington, agency: SportsTalent) who scored 19 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international swingman Antonio Latimer (204-78, college: Missouri So.) chipped in 16 points (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). Four Capitanes players scored in double figures. Capitanes' coach David Rosario allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the other side the best for losing team was naturalized American guard Darnell Hinson (186-80, college: Northeastern St.) who recorded 15 points and 8 assists and Argentinian forward Alexander David Galindo (198-85, college: FIU) added 19 points respectively. Capitanes maintains sixth place with 13-11 record. Gallitos lost fifth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 17 games lost. Capitanes will face higher ranked Quebradillas (#5) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Gallitos will play against Indios (#8) in Mayaguez and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Arecibo: D.Pinnock 19+9reb+5ast, A.Latimer 16+3reb+1ast, D.Santiago 13+4reb+1ast, A.Falcon 10+3reb, G.Diaz 7+6reb+4ast, L.Ayuso 7+5reb+1ast
Isabela: A.David Galindo 19+3reb+2ast, D.Hinson 15+3reb+8ast, F.Valencia 12+6reb+3ast, S.Randolph 8+12reb+1ast, J.Verdejo 7+3reb+1ast, F.Rashaun 4+7reb+1ast
gschID: 125581


Mayaguez - Arecibo 74-82

Rather expected game in Mayaguez where 8th ranked Indios (9-14) were defeated by sixth ranked Capitanes (13-11) 82-74 on Wednesday. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 26-17. But Indios won second period 18-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was international guard Larry Ayuso (190-77, college: USC, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who scored 33 points (!!!). The former international center Daniel Santiago (216-76, college: N.Mexico, agency: Priority Sports) chipped in 11 points, 6 rebounds and 5 blocks. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Sean Williams (208-86, college: Boston Coll.) who recorded 17 points and 7 rebounds and the former international swingman Alejandro Carmona (194-83) added 16 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Four Indios players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Capitanes maintains sixth place with 13-11 record. Loser Indios keep the eighth position with 14 games lost. Capitanes will face higher ranked Quebradillas (#5) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Indios will play against Gallitos in Isabela and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Arecibo: L.Ayuso 33+3reb+1ast, D.Santiago 11+6reb+3ast, G.Diaz 10+3reb+5ast, D.Pinnock 9+5reb+1ast, D.Cortes 6+1reb+1ast, D.Copeland 6+5reb
Mayaguez: S.Williams 17+7reb+3ast, A.Carmona 16+5reb+1ast, R.Clemente 12+7reb, C.Rivera 11+5reb+2ast, H.Valenzuela 7+2reb, K.Hamilton 6+1reb+6ast
gschID: 125577


Bayamon - Guaynabo 97-98 OT

Top ranked Vaqueros (14-8) recorded its eighth loss in Bayamon on Thursday night. Hosts were edged by second ranked Mets (14-9) in overtime 98-97. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Vaqueros. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. The guests trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 17-15 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 1-point victory in overtime. 25 personal fouls committed by Vaqueros helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American center Shaun Pruitt (208-85, college: Illinois, agency: Edge Sports) who had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 16 rebounds. International swingman Angel Daniel Vassallo (198-86, college: Virginia Tech) chipped in 28 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Mets' coach Raymond Dalmau used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international guard Christian Dalmau (194-77, college: Daytona Beach CC, agency: Paris Global Sports) who recorded 30 points and 6 rebounds and American forward Terrence Shannon (203-79, college: Elgin CC, agency: Paris Global Sports) added 19 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Four Mets and five Vaqueros players scored in double figures. Mets maintains second place with 14-9 record having just -1 point less than leader Bayamon. Vaqueros at the other side still keep top position with eight games lost. Mets are looking forward to face Maratonistas (#9) in Coamo in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Vaqueros will play at home against Caciques (#7) in Humacao and are hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Guaynabo: A.Daniel Vassallo 28+5reb+4ast, S.Pruitt 21+16reb, R.Dalmau 19+1reb+6ast, A.Luis Figueroa 14+11reb+2ast, C.Escalera 6+6reb+6ast, J.McCoy 4+1reb
Bayamon: C.Dalmau 30+6reb+3ast, T.Shannon 19+5reb+2ast, R.Jose Hatton 15+4reb+2ast, J.Mojica 13+6reb+2ast, R.Rickert 11+7reb+2ast, C.Antrone Lee 5+7reb+4ast
gschID: 125578


Santurce - Coamo 87-83

Very predictable result in Santurce where fourth ranked Cangrejeros (14-10) beat 9th ranked Maratonistas (9-15) 87-83 on Thursday. However just four-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 87-83. Cangrejeros made 17-of-20 free shots (85.0 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was international power forward Ricky Sanchez (212-87, college: High School) who scored 28 points and 8 rebounds. International guard Richard Chaney (196-84, college: Troy, agency: Court Side) chipped in 21 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Cangrejeros' coach Rolando Hourruitiner allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international center Manuel Antonio Narvaez (211-81, college: S.Nazarene, agency: Paris Global Sports) who recorded a double-double by scoring 24 points and 14 rebounds and guard Johwen Villegas (193-85, college: FIU) added 18 points and 8 rebounds respectively. Four Cangrejeros and five Maratonistas players scored in double figures. Cangrejeros moved-up to third place. Maratonistas lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with 15 games lost. Cangrejeros will face Caciques (#7) in Humacao in the next round. Maratonistas will play at home against the league's second-placed Mets in Guaynabo.
Top scorers:
Santurce: R.Sanchez 28+8reb+3ast, R.Chaney 21+9reb+5ast, A.Reyes 12+9reb+2ast, W.Hodge 10+1reb+1ast, W.Pagan 7+1reb+3ast, R.Melendez 4+2reb+1ast
Coamo: M.Antonio Narvaez 24+14reb+1ast, J.Villegas 18+8reb+2ast, M.Landry 16+3reb+1ast, C.Vega 13+7reb+5ast, A.Ortiz 10+7reb+2ast, M.Freije 2+2reb+1ast
gschID: 125579




Standings - BSN
BSN Standings
 1. Bayamon 14-8 
 2. Guaynabo 14-9 
 3. Santurce 14-10 
 4. San German 13-9 
 5. Quebradillas 13-10 
 6. Arecibo 13-11 
 7. Humacao 10-13 
 8. Mayaguez 9-14 
 9. Coamo 9-15 
 10. Isabela 7-17 


Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Angel Daniel VASSALLO
  Guaynabo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 24.7
 1. Vassallo, Guaynabo24.7 
 2. Ramos, Quebradillas23.7 
 3. Dalmau, Bayamon22.1 
 4. Ayuso, Arecibo21.0 
 5. Johnson, Humacao20.4 
 6. Villegas, Coamo20.0 
 7. Harris, San German18.6 
 8. Romero, Mayaguez18.6 
 9. Carmona, Mayaguez17.7 
 10. Randolph, Isabela17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Manuel Antonio NARVAEZ
  Coamo
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 13.3
 1. Narvaez, Coamo13.3 
 2. Randolph, Isabela12.4 
 3. Harris, San German11.9 
 4. Pruitt, Guaynabo11.5 
 5. Ramos, Quebradillas11.0 
 6. Lloreda, San G.10.5 
 7. Rickert, Bayamon9.8 
 8. Romero, Mayaguez9.7 
 9. Sweetney, Santurce9.3 
 10. Shannon, Bayamon9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Dalmau, Bayamon6.3 
 2. Brown, Quebradillas5.9 
 3. Guzman, Guaynabo4.8 
 4. Clemente, Humacao4.7 
 5. Clinch, Isabela4.5 
 6. Apodaca, Quebradil.4.4 
 7. Vega, Coamo4.1 
 8. Rivera, Mayaguez4.0 
 9. Copeland, San G.3.8 
 10. Berdiel, Humacao3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Darnell HINSON
  Isabela
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Hinson, Isabela1.9 
 2. Robinson, Mayaguez1.7 
 3. Carmona, Mayaguez1.6 
 4. Clinch, Isabela1.5 
 5. Rivera, Mayaguez1.5 
 6. Robinson, Humacao1.5 
 7. Santiago, Santurce1.5 
 8. Hodge, Santurce1.4 
 9. Dalmau, Bayamon1.4 
 10. Berdiel, Humacao1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Kleon PENN
  Humacao
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Penn, Humacao2.5 
 2. Santiago, Arecibo2.0 
 3. Traylor, Bayamon2.0 
 4. Romero, Mayaguez1.9 
 5. Sanchez, Santurce1.8 
 6. Aubry, Arecibo1.6 
 7. Robinson, Mayaguez1.5 
 8. Randolph, Isabela1.5 
 9. Lee, Bayamon1.5 
 10. Ramos, Quebradill.1.3 


Ricky Sanchez gets MVP of the Week award for Puerto Rican BSN - by Eurobasket News
International Ricky Sanchez (212-C/F-87) had an amazing evening in the last week for Santurce and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for week 21.
The 23-year old had the game-high 28 points adding eight rebounds and three assists for Santurce in his team's victory, helping them to edge out Coamo (#9, 9-15) 87-83. Santurce is placed at 3rd position in Puerto Rican BSN. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Santurce will need more victories to improve their 14-10 record. In the team's last game Sanchez had a remarkable 66.7% from 2-point range and got three three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He just recently signed at Santurce, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Ricky Sanchez averages this season 15.7ppg and 5.8rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last week's games was 29-year old former international center Manuel Antonio Narvaez (211-C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) of Coamo. Narvaez impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 24 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Coamo was edged by the higher-ranked Santurce (#3, 14-10) 87-83. Coamo managed to keep the same 9th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 9-15 record. Narvaez is one of the most experienced players at Coamo and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last week was Mike Harris (198-F-83) of San German (#4). Harris scored 24 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of San German, leading his team to a 82-77 win against slightly lower-ranked Quebradillas (#5, 13-10). San German needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 13 victories and 9 lost games. Harris has a great season in Puerto Rico. After 15 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.2ppg (8th best) and rebounds with 11.9rpg (3rd best). He also has 1.3bpg and FGP: 59.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Shaun Pruitt (208-C-85) of Guaynabo - 21 points and 16 rebounds
5. Richard Chaney (196-G-84) of Santurce - 21 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Larry Ayuso (190-G-77) of Arecibo - 33 points and 3 rebounds
7. Christian Dalmau (194-G-77) of Bayamon - 30 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83) of Arecibo - 19 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Joel Jones (196-G/F-81) of Quebradillas - 19 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Darnell Hinson (186-G-80) of Isabela - 15 points, 3 rebounds and 8 assists

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

Isabela inks Rashaun Freeman - by Eurobasket News
Rashaun Freeman (206-C/F-84, college: Massachusetts) is a new member of Isabela. The American PF/C signed a deal for rest of the season. He already made debut with Isabela collecting 4 points and 7 rebounds in 68-78 defeat against Arecibo.
Rashaun Freeman arrived to Isabela from VOO Verviers-Pepinster (Belgium), where he spent 2010/11 season. He appeared 32 times in the league averaging 15.9 points and 8 rebounds. His season-high was 28 points against Aalstar. Pepinster ended as No.7 in the league and failed to reach the Playoffs. Season 2009/10, Freeman spent in Germany with EnBW Ludwigsburg. For 21 games in the league he had 4.7 ppg and 2.8 rpg. In the past, he also played for Nantes and Gravelines.

*****************************************************
  QATAR   


Riyadi storm into Asia Club Championship Final - by Eurobasket News
Riyadi - Rayyan 71:52

Riyadi joined Mahram in the championship game at Asia Club Championship. The Lebanese powerhouse left no chance for Rayyan of Qatar in todays second semifinal clash. Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) stepped up with 25 points and 12 rebounds to pace Riyadi. Rayyan will take on Smart Gilas in the Bronze medals game tomorrow.
Riyadi opened the game with 13 points in a row to set the tone. They recorded a 19:8 lead after ten minutes of action. The margin kept on growing throughout the second frame. Riyadi arrived at halftime up by 17 points 38:21. Rayyan struggled to get any closer in the third term. Riyadi dominated in every facet of the game entering the final term up by as many as 18 points 53:35. Riyadi did not loosen the grip and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) delivered 18 points, while Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) added 6 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Targuy Ngombo (198-F-89, agency: Court Side) answered with 15 points for Rayyan. Yasseen Musa (204-F-80) accounted for 13 points in the losing effort.

Riyadi: Ahmad Ismail 25+12 boards, Fadi Khatib 18, Loren Woods 6+11 boards
Rayyan: Targuy Ngombo 15, Yasseen Musa 13


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


CSKA swept the Semifinals and advanced to the Final - by Eurobasket News
SEMIFINAL
Lokomotiv - CSKA 63-79

CSKA swept the Semifinals and advanced to the Final. Lokomotiv was ahead by 1 point after three quarters before a 26-9 charge of CSKA Moscow, which allowed them to win the game. It was a good game for the former international guard J.R. Holden (185-76, college: Bucknell) who led his team to a victory with 14 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. International center Andrey Vorontsevich (204-87) contributed with 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Forward Maksim Sheleketo (204-87) answered with 15 points and 5 rebounds and American-FYR Macedonian forward Michael Wilkinson (204-81, college: Wisconsin, agency: Interperformances) added 13 points in the effort for Lokomotiv. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
CSKA: A.Vorontsevich 15+7reb+1ast, J.Holden 14+6reb+5ast, J.Gordon 14+2reb+4ast, D.Sokolov 8+1reb, A.Shved 7+6reb+3ast, V.Khryapa 7+2reb
Lokomotiv: M.Sheleketo 15+5reb, M.Wilkinson 13+4reb+1ast, M.Grigoryev 11+2reb+3ast, G.Shukhovtsov 7+5reb+1ast, G.Jeretin 6+2ast, L.Chalmers 6+3reb+2ast
gschID: 129435


Khimky - Unics 77-56

Khimky rediced to 1-2 record in the semis after the home win 77:56. The game without a history. Khimky led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. The best player for the winners was international forward Sergey Monya (203-83) who scored 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Croatian forward Kresimir Loncar (210-83, agency: Alti Sport) chipped in 11 points and 6 rebounds. Five Khimky players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was naturalized Belarusian forward Vladimir Veremeenko (208-84, agency: RU-Basket Management) who recorded 9 points and 9 rebounds and Polish-Swedish center Maciej Lampe (210-85) added 12 points respectively. Unics Kazan's coach gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Khimky: S.Monya 14+5reb+4ast, V.Fridzon 13+4reb+1ast, Z.Planinic 12+3reb+5ast, K.Loncar 11+6reb+3ast, A.Savrasenko 10+4reb, R.Lopez 9+2reb+1ast
Unics: M.Lampe 12+4reb+1ast, T.Lyday 11+3reb+2ast, V.Veremeenko 9+9reb, M.Popovic 7+6ast, Z.Pashutin 6+4reb+4ast, P.Samoylenko 5+2reb+3ast
5-8 places
Krasnie Krilya - Enisey 84-67

Enisey Krasnoyarsk was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 46-27 second half run of Krasnie Krilya. They made 16-of-20 charity shots (80.0 percent) during the game. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. 24 personal fouls committed by Enisey Krasnoyarsk helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Brion Rush (186-84, college: Grambling St., agency: Court Side) who led the winners and scored 25 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. American-Bosnian guard Ernest Bremer (195-80, college: St.Bonaventure, agency: Higher Vision Sports) accounted for 11 points, 6 rebounds and 14 assists for the winning side. Four Krasnie Krilya players scored in double figures. Guard Pavel Sergeev (187-87, agency: RIZO) came up with 13 points and 7 assists and Serbian power forward Dragan Labovic (207-87, agency: Alti Sport) added 12 points respectively for Enisey Krasnoyarsk in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest.
Top scorers:
Krasnie Krilya: B.Rush 25+6reb+4ast, P.Brezec 16+5reb, E.Bremer 11+6reb+14ast, F.Dmitriev 11+2reb, A.Kuzyakin 8+2reb, V.Zvarykin 5+2reb+1ast
Enisey: P.Sergeev 13+3reb+7ast, D.Labovic 12+4reb+2ast, V.Solovyev 10+5reb, A.Komarovskiy 8+5reb+2ast, L.Baxter 8+7reb, D.Belyaev 6+1reb
gschID: 129437


N.Novgorod - Spartak SP 81-70

The game was mostly controlled by BC Nizhny Novgorod. Spartak St.Petersburg managed to win fourth quarter 26-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. BC Nizhny Novgorod shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 51.9 percentage. It was a great evening for Serbian guard Ivan Paunic (194-87, agency: Beo Basket) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 11 rebounds. Naturalized Belarusian forward Aliaksandr Pustahvar (201-85, agency: RU-Basket Management) helped adding 13 points. The best for the losing side was FYR Macedonian-Bulgarian forward Pero Antic (210-82, agency: Interperformances) with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds and the former international guard Anton Ponkrashov (200-86, agency: RIZO) scored 11 points. Spartak St.Petersburg's coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
N.Novgorod: I.Paunic 25+11reb+2ast, N.Protic 16+1ast, A.Pustahvar 13+2reb+3ast, S.Antonov 8+3reb+1ast, A.Ivanov 6+2reb+2ast, O.Baranov 5+1reb
Spartak SP: P.Antic 18+13reb, A.Ponkrashov 11+3ast, N.Dragovic 8, V.Dyachok 7+4reb+1ast, H.Domercant 6+4reb+1ast, P.Popovic 6+1reb+1ast
gschID: 129436



Stats Leaders - Superleague A
Points Per Game
 Keith LANGFORD
  Khimky
  (193-G/F-83)
  Avg: 18.2
 1. Langford, Khimky18.2 
 2. Lampe, Unics17.7 
 3. Keyru, Dynamo16.0 
 4. Baxter, Enisey15.9 
 5. Domercant, Spart.15.8 
 6. Williams, Enisey15.3 
 7. Vyaltsev, Triumph14.4 
 8. Labovic, Enisey14.4 
 9. Wilkinson, Lokomot.13.7 
 10. Beverley, Spart.13.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Maciej LAMPE
  Unics
  (210-C-85)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Lampe, Unics7.5 
 2. Zhukanenko, Dynamo7.4 
 3. Baxter, Enisey6.9 
 4. Khryapa, CSKA6.5 
 5. Beverley, Spart.6.3 
 6. Massey, Lokomotiv6.3 
 7. Monya, Khimky6.2 
 8. Brezec, Krasnie6.1 
 9. Wilkinson, Lokomot.6.0 
 10. Paunic, N.Novgorod5.4 
Assists Per Game
 Marcus WILLIAMS
  Enisey
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Williams, Enisey6.8 
 2. Bremer, Krasnie6.6 
 3. Vyaltsev, Triumph5.4 
 4. Ponkrashov, Spart.4.5 
 5. Khvostov, Dynamo4.1 
 6. Popovic, Unics3.9 
 7. Planinic, Khimky3.7 
 8. Holden, CSKA3.4 
 9. Samoylenko, Unics3.4 
 10. Khryapa, CSKA3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Eugeny VORONOV
  Dynamo
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Voronov, Dynamo1.8 
 2. Beverley, Spart.1.8 
 3. Bremer, Krasnie1.6 
 4. Khryapa, CSKA1.5 
 5. Lyday, Unics1.5 
 6. Surovtsev, Lokom.1.4 
 7. Labovic, Enisey1.3 
 8. Ponkrashov, Spart.1.3 
 9. Domercant, Spart.1.3 
 10. Wilkinson, Lokomo.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Sasha KAUN
  CSKA
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Kaun, CSKA1.2 
 2. Yakovenko, N.Nov.1.0 
 3. Monya, Khimky0.9 
 4. Varlamov, Triumph0.9 
 5. Likhodey, Triumph0.8 
 6. Zhukanenko, Dynamo0.8 
 7. Rizvic, Unics0.8 
 8. Khryapa, CSKA0.8 
 9. Antonov, N.Novgor.0.8 
 10. Lampe, Unics0.7 


*****************************************************
  SAUDI ARABIA   


Jalaa prevail against Ittihad - by Eurobasket News
Jalaa - Ittihad 85:77

Jalaa recorded victory over Ittihad in the 5-8 place playoffs at Asia Club Championship. Wissam Yaqqub (212-C-82) scored 17 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to pace the winners. Jalaa will now take on the winners of Duhok vs. ASU battle for the fifth overall position in the tournament.
Ittihad surged ahead early in the encounter but Wissam Yaqqub and Michel Maadanly provided Jalaa with an 18:16 lead after ten minutes. Michel Maadanly and Wissam Yaqqub teamed up to stretch the gap to 10 points midway through the second frame. However Ittihad crowned the first half with a 7:2 run to get closer. Jalaa took over in the third term. The Syrian team dominated and kept Ittihad at bay. They recorded a 69:59 lead with one quarter remaining. Sari Papazian (194-G/F-82) gave Jalaa a 12-point cushion early in the final term. Ali Al Maghribi (200-F-75) dragged Ittihad within six points with under two minutes to go. But Jamaal Miller and Sari Papazian came up with timely points late in the encounter to seal the victory. Sari Papazian and Marcelle Yaqqub (206-C-77) came up with 16 points each, while Jamaal Miller finished with 13 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds for Jalaa. Vladislav Dragajlovic (207-C-79, agency: Beo Basket) and Ali Al Maghribi responded with 16 points each for Ittihad. Darren Keelly (195-G-78, college: Texas) had 15 points in the loss.

Jalaa: Wissam Yaqqub 17+10 boards, Sari Papazian 16, Marcelle Yaqqub 16
Ittihad: Vladislav Dragajlovic 16+13 boards, Ali Al Maghribi 16


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


Stats Leaders - 1A
Points Per Game
 Vladimir PANIC
  Zlatorog
  (194-F-82)
  Avg: 20.4
 1. Panic, Zlatorog20.4 
 2. Raymond, Helios17.7 
 3. Simovic, Sentjur17.4 
 4. Erzen, Parklji16.9 
 5. Thondique, Polzela16.3 
 6. Harmason, Sentjur15.1 
 7. Djapa, Geoplin Slo.14.7 
 8. Nuhanovic, Elektra13.6 
 9. Krejic, Parklji13.4 
 10. Zolotic, Maribor12.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gregg THONDIQUE
  Polzela
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Thondique, Polzela10.5 
 2. Simovic, Sentjur8.9 
 3. Nuhanovic, Elektra8.3 
 4. Raymond, Helios7.4 
 5. Miljkovic, Elektra7.0 
 6. Krusic, Geoplin6.8 
 7. Zolotic, Maribor6.5 
 8. Mucic, Maribor6.2 
 9. Erzen, Parklji6.1 
 10. Pavic, Krka6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Igor MIJAJLOVIC
  Polzela
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Mijajlovic, Polzela4.7 
 2. Brolih, Maribor4.4 
 3. Jersin, Elektra4.1 
 4. Hohler, Sentjur3.9 
 5. Harmason, Sentjur3.8 
 6. Djordjevic, Krka3.7 
 7. Vujasinovic, Zlato.3.6 
 8. Fon, Geoplin Slovan3.5 
 9. Krivec, Krka3.5 
 10. Ilievski, Union O.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Gregg THONDIQUE
  Polzela
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Thondique, Polzela2.3 
 2. Ilievski, Union O.1.9 
 3. Mezek, LTHcast1.9 
 4. Dragic, Krka1.7 
 5. Mahkovic, LTHcas.1.6 
 6. Lapornik, Zlatorog1.6 
 7. Harmason, Sentjur1.6 
 8. Ikonic, Krka1.5 
 9. Fon, Geoplin Slovan1.5 
 10. Hohler, Sentjur1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra
  (209-C-82)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Nuhanovic, Elektra1.8 
 2. Thondique, Polzela1.2 
 3. Dimec, Zlatorog1.0 
 4. Sviridov, Polzela0.9 
 5. Booker, Krka0.8 
 6. Shermadini, Union0.8 
 7. Pavic, Krka0.6 
 8. Omic, Zlatorog0.6 
 9. Sebic, Sentjur0.6 
 10. Djapa, Geoplin Sl.0.5 


Jagodnik's buzzer beater ties series - by Zeljko Zule
Goran Jagodnik (203-F-74, agency: Beo Basket) scored with the buzzer to give Olimpija a 61-59 win over Krka in Game 2 of Slovenian Finals.
Krka opened the game on an 11-2 run en route to an 18-6, its largest lead of the game. Olimpija took their first lead of the game at 50-48 with 7:08 remaining. Zoran Dragic tied at 59 with 14 seconds to go. Jagodnik missed the jumper, but he gabbed the rebound an hit game the winning shot as the seried tied 1-1.
Olimpija's bench players outscored Krka's backups 35-11. Goran Jagodnik and Giorgi Shermadini both scored 12 points and Jaka Klobucar added 11. Krka made just 5-of-17 free throws (29% percent9). Zoran Dragic had 15 points and 9 rebounds, Dusan Djordjevic posted 11 points and Jure Balazic scored 10 points before he fouled out.
Game 3 will be played on Tuesday in Novo mesto and Game 4 is sheduled for Thursday in Ljubljana.
Finals Game 2:
Union Olimpija-Krka 61-59 (12-18, 19-18, 13-10, 17-13)
UNION OLIMPIJA: Span DNP, *Ilievski 9, Boisa, *Anagonye 1, *Gregory 7, Jagodnik 12, Shermadini 12, Klobucar 11, *Markota 7, Bertans DNP, *Ozbolt 2, Udrih.
KRKA: Ikonic, Rojc DNP, Petrov DNP, E.Muric 5, *Pavic 4, *Dordevic 11, *Dragic 15, Booker 2, Krivec 4, *Drobnjak 8, *Balazic 10, Osolnik.



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


South Korean National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
South Korean National Team 2011
#s#
Byung-Hyun Kang
Kang
Seung-Hyun Kim
Kim
Chan-Hee Park
Park
Dong-Geun Yang
Yang
Jung-Suk Lee
Lee
#e#5
Kang Byung-Hyun 193-G-85 KCC Egis South Korea
Kim Seung-Hyun 178-G-78 Daegu Orions South Korea
Park Chan-Hee 191-G-87 Anyang KGC South Korea
Yang Dong-Geun 182-G-81 Mobis Phoebus South Korea
Lee Jung-Suk 184-G-82 Samsung Th. South Korea
Cho Sung-Min 197-F-83 Sonic Boom KT South Korea
Kim Yong-Hwan 195-F-84 Sonic Boom KT South Korea
Yang Hee-Jong 194-F-84 Anyang KGC South Korea
Kim Seung-Won 202-C-89
Kim Jong-Gyu
Oh Se-Keun 201-C-87 Chungang Univ. South Korea
Sandrin Eric 206-F/C-78 Samsung Th. South Korea

Hur Jae Head Coach KCC Egis South Korea


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


Caja Laboral negotiating deal with Thomas Heurtel - by Eurobasket News
Caja Laboral are looking for the ways to improve their roster. They are reportedly negotiating contract with Thomas Heurtel (188-G-89). The rights on the player belong to ASVEL Villeurbanne. The 22-year-old French guard is not new to Spain. He spent the last season playing for Meridiano Alicante. The guard notched 9.5 points, 2.4 assists and 1.1 rebounds per game. Previously Thomas Heurtel played for Strasbourg and Pau-Orthez. Thomas Heurtel was the member of French U20 selection. The guard also participated at Adidas Eurocamp in 2010. He made it into All-Star Team in Treviso.


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


Jalaa prevail against Ittihad - by Eurobasket News
Jalaa - Ittihad 85:77

Jalaa recorded victory over Ittihad in the 5-8 place playoffs at Asia Club Championship. Wissam Yaqqub (212-C-82) scored 17 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to pace the winners. Jalaa will now take on the winners of Duhok vs. ASU battle for the fifth overall position in the tournament.
Ittihad surged ahead early in the encounter but Wissam Yaqqub and Michel Maadanly provided Jalaa with an 18:16 lead after ten minutes. Michel Maadanly and Wissam Yaqqub teamed up to stretch the gap to 10 points midway through the second frame. However Ittihad crowned the first half with a 7:2 run to get closer. Jalaa took over in the third term. The Syrian team dominated and kept Ittihad at bay. They recorded a 69:59 lead with one quarter remaining. Sari Papazian (194-G/F-82) gave Jalaa a 12-point cushion early in the final term. Ali Al Maghribi (200-F-75) dragged Ittihad within six points with under two minutes to go. But Jamaal Miller and Sari Papazian came up with timely points late in the encounter to seal the victory. Sari Papazian and Marcelle Yaqqub (206-C-77) came up with 16 points each, while Jamaal Miller finished with 13 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds for Jalaa. Vladislav Dragajlovic (207-C-79, agency: Beo Basket) and Ali Al Maghribi responded with 16 points each for Ittihad. Darren Keelly (195-G-78, college: Texas) had 15 points in the loss.

Jalaa: Wissam Yaqqub 17+10 boards, Sari Papazian 16, Marcelle Yaqqub 16
Ittihad: Vladislav Dragajlovic 16+13 boards, Ali Al Maghribi 16


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


Taiwan national teams 2011 schedule - by Chris Wang
The CTBA will be sending out seven national teams this year for eight international competitions:

Men's:
East Asian Basketball Championship, June 10-15, Nanjing, China
FIBA Asia Championship, September 15-25, Wuhan, Hubei, China
FIBA U19 World Championship, June 30-July 10, Latvia
FIBA Asia U16 Championship, October 18-28, Nha Trang, Vietnam

Women's:
FIBA Asia Championship, August 21-28, Nagasaki, Japan
World University Games, August 12-23, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
FIBA U19 World Championship, July 21-31, Chile
FIBA Asia U16 Championship, October 5-12, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China

Bob Hill arrives in Taipei - by Chris Wang
Former NBA head coach Bob Hill arrived in Taipei Saturday and wasted no time to function as Taiwan NT's technical consultant by observing the team's practice on the same day.

The veteran coach told reporters that he would have to attend more practices before making the initial assessment. The 62-year-old coach did say the team committed too many turnovers in the practice.

Three probable starters on the team -- Chen Hsin-an, Lin Chih-chieh and Lee Hsueh-lin -- all sat out the practice last night due to injuries. They are expected to be ready for the East Asian Basketball Championship which tips off in Nanjing, China on June 10.

Hill, who currently coaches Tokyo Apache of the BJ League in Japan, said he instructed Taiwan NT briefly during the team's training tour in the United States in 2003 and had great impressions on center Wu Tai-hao and forward Lin Chih-chieh.

Yang could join Tseng in Shanghai next season: report - by Chris Wang
SBL Finals MVP Yang Ching-Min (188-G/F-84) of Taiwan Beer could join former Yulon center Wen-Ting Tseng (202-C/F-84) to play for Shanghai Dongfang Sharks of the Chinese League CBA (Chinese Basketball Association) next season, local media reported.

The 190cm shooter is expected to be tested in Shanghai in July and meet with Shanghai owner Yao Ming and its head coach Bob Donewald, United Evening Daily reported, adding that two other teams expressed interests in Yang.

Tseng, a 204cm center who played for Osaka Evessa of the Japanese league BJ League this past season, is expected to sign with the Sharks soon. Due to league regulation, Tseng was not able to join Shanghai last season.

Yang will be yet another Taiwanese star player to play for a much lucrative contract, following the footsteps of Chen Hsin-an, Lin Chih-chieh, Lee Hsueh-lin and Yen Hsin-shu, among others.

According to the United Evening News, CBA teams are willing to pay more than NT$4 million (approximately US$140,000) annually -- and more than NT$8 million (approximately US$270,000) for Lin Chih-chieh and Wen-Ting Tseng -- for the service of top-notch Taiwanese players.

In Taiwan, SBL implements a much-criticized hard cap of NT$120,000 (US$4,190) on players' monthly salary, which means a top player is only able to earn a little more than US$50,000 annually.

While top players usually earn more than that with some getting paid more than NT$3 million (around US$105,000) because most SBL teams did not follow the stupid regulation, the budgets of SBL teams pale in comparison of the Chinese teams.

Some local basketball observers have urged the league to scrap the salary cap and called for the SBL teams to invest more on the players, otherwise, they said, losing big-name players will be inevitable.

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


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Ali KARADENIZ
  Trabzons.
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 23
 1. Karadeniz, Trabzon.23.0 
 2. Kambala, Aliaga20.2 
 3. Buckman, Antalya19.6 
 4. Henderson, Antalya19.1 
 5. Smith, Karsiyaka18.8 
 6. Seibutis, Olin Edi.18.7 
 7. Kemp, Besiktas17.9 
 8. Randle, Aliaga17.5 
 9. Barbour, Erdemir17.2 
 10. Mays, Oyak Renau.17.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nedim YUCEL
  Mersin
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Yucel, Mersin11.3 
 2. Thomas, Erdemir10.2 
 3. Wesson, Turk T.9.2 
 4. Buckman, Antalya9.0 
 5. Mays, Oyak Renault9.0 
 6. Ffriend, Bornova8.7 
 7. Samardjiski, Olin8.5 
 8. Smith, Bornova7.9 
 9. Smith, Karsiyaka7.8 
 10. Guler, Antalya7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Baris ERMIS
  Banvit
  (194-G-85)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Ermis, Banvit6.1 
 2. Holston, Karsiyaka6.0 
 3. Conroy, Oyak R.5.9 
 4. Rasic, Trabzonspor5.3 
 5. Chatman, Besiktas5.1 
 6. Henderson, Antalya4.7 
 7. Rowe, Tofas4.6 
 8. Acik, Galatasaray4.4 
 9. Tunceri, Efes Pils.4.3 
 10. Ukic, Fener.Ulker4.3 
Steals Per Game
 David HOLSTON
  Karsiyaka
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Holston, Karsiyaka2.2 
 2. Grier, Mersin2.2 
 3. Mays, Oyak Renault2.2 
 4. Waller, Oyak Renau.2.1 
 5. Prince, Antalya1.9 
 6. Smith, Karsiyaka1.9 
 7. Grundy, Mersin1.7 
 8. Guler, Antalya1.6 
 9. Rowe, Tofas1.6 
 10. Chatman, Besiktas1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Gregory STIEMSMA
  Turk T.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Stiemsma, Turk T.1.8 
 2. Samardjiski, Olin1.5 
 3. Francis, Bornova1.3 
 4. Johnson, Erdemir1.3 
 5. Ogilvy, Besiktas1.1 
 6. Mays, Oyak Renault1.0 
 7. Ruzic, Tofas0.9 
 8. Aldemir, Karsiyaka0.9 
 9. Davis, Banvit0.9 
 10. Simpsons, Turk T.0.8 


TBL Finals: Fenerbahce Ulker blasts Galatasaray in Game One - by Eurobasket News
TBL Finals, Game 1: Fenerbahce Ulker - Galatasaray 81-59 (1-0)

Fenerbahce Ulker was too strong for Galatasaray in Game One of the Playoff Finals. The defending champion celebrated easy 81-59 win for 1-0 lead in the series. Second meeting is scheduled for Sunday and Fener will be the host once again. The format is best-of-seven (2-2-1-1-1).
The game without a history. Fenerbahce Ulker led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Fenerbahce Ulker outrebounded Galatasaray 38-27 including 28 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Lithuanian center Darjus Lavrinovic (212-79) fired 11 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. The former international guard Omer Onan (194-78) chipped in 15 points. Four Fenerbahce Ulker players scored in double figures. Croatian center Luksa Andric (210-85, agency: Beo Basket) produced 14 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Jerry Johnson (183-82, college: Rider, agency: Beo Basket) added 9 points respectively for lost side. 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:
Fener.Ulker: O.Onan 15+2reb+3ast, S.May 12+2reb, D.Lavrinovic 11+7reb+5ast, M.Tomas 11+4reb+1ast, R.Ukic 11+3reb+3ast, O.Savas 7+3reb
Galatasaray: L.Andric 14+5reb+1ast, J.Johnson 9+3reb+2ast, S.Sanli 9+4reb+1ast, T.Acik 7+4reb+2ast, J.Shipp 6+2reb, P.Shumpert 6+1reb

Soner Senturk moves to Erdermirspor - by Eurobasket News
Soner Senturk (194-G-86, agency: 1x1 Sports) will change the team in the next season. The 24-year-old guard has agreed on terms of contract with Erdemirspor. The deal is meant for two seasons. Last season Soner Senturk played for Bornova. He tallied 8.1 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game. Soner Senturk played for Turkey at the 2009 World University Games. The guard posted 9.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists per game in Serbia. Soner Senturk had stints with Durassafaka and Turk Telekom before joining Bornova. He also played for U18 and U20 Turkish selections. Soner Senturk made it into Eurobasket.com Turkish League All-Newcomers Team back in 2005.


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


British U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
British U20 National Team 2011
#s#
Shore Adenekan
Adenekan
Jonathan Bunyan
Bunyan
Jeff Dirkin
Dirkin
Alasdair Fraser
Fraser
Harrison Gamble
Gamble
#e#5
Shore Adenekan 206-C-92 Essex Pirates United Kingdom
Jonathan Bunyan 182-G-92
Jeff Dirkin 203-F-91 Rollins USA
Keegan Dunlop 208-C-93
Alasdair Fraser 201-C-92
Harrison Gamble 206-F/C-92 Reading United Kingdom
Lee Goldsbrough 205-F-91 Providence USA
William Hall 201-G-91 Reading United Kingdom
Joshua Houghton 189-G-91 Manchester United Kingdom
Josh Johnson 180-G-92 Barking Abbey United Kingdom
Alex Marcotullio 190-G-91 Northwestern USA
Alistair Mackay 208-C-91 Davidson USA
Levi Noel 197-G-91 E.Illinois USA
Lee Reilly 182-G-92 Edinburgh K. Scotland
Ryan Richards 212-F-91 Gran Canaria Spain
William Harold Saunders 200-F-91 USC Upstate USA
Jack Thompson 193-G MK Lions United Kingdom
Adam Thoseby 196-F/G-91 Reading United Kingdom
Devon Van Oostrum 189-G-93 Baskonia Spain



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  URUGUAY   


Results for the Metro League 14th round - by Hector Lopez
Nacional beat Goes 85-63 for the 14th round of the Metro League to maintain the second place, just one point behind Larranaga, the leader. For Nacional Roberto Amaro (197-F-69) netted 20 points, grabbed 10 rebounds with 4 assists while Terrence Shelman (198-F-78) scored 11 points qith 12 rebounds, 5 blocks and 5 assists. For Goes, Johnny Rodriguez (197-F-83) scored 10 points with 6 rebounds. Other results:
Urunday Universitario 94 - Juan Garbarino (185-G-89) 24 points 5 rebounds, Steven Toyloy (203-C-87, college: Cincinnati) 16 points 12 rebounds
Capitol 87 - Gordon James (198-F-79, college: Bridgeport) 24 points 14 rebounds 4 blocks
- - -
Yale 84 - Tarrie Monroe (202-F-77, college: Lewis) 30 points 15 rebounds 2 blocks
25 de Agosto 81- John Rufus (207-F/C-81, college: Fayetteville St.) 26 points 8 rebounds

Standings - Metropolitan League
Metropolitan Standings
 1. Larranaga 10-3 
 2. Nacional 10-4 
 3. Urunday Univ. 9-5 
 4. Tabare 8-5 
 5. Goes 7-7 
 6. Capitol 7-7 
 7. Atenas 6-6 
 8. Yale 5-9 
 9. 25 de Agosto 3-10 
 10. Verdirrojo 2-11 


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  VENEZUELA   


LPB Round 53: Trotamundos are upset by Toros - by Eurobasket News
There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in LPB.

The game between third ranked Trotamundos (30-13) and seventh ranked Toros (17-26) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. Trotamundos was defeated by Toros in a tough game in Maracay 89-98. Toros maintain seventh place with 17-26 record. Trotamundos at the other side keep the third position with 13 games lost. Toros are again looking forward to face higher ranked Trotamundos (#3) in Valencia in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Trotamundos will have a break next round.
Leader Cocodrilos delivered the 33th win. This time they beat 10th ranked Gaiteros (6-37) 88-73 in Caracas. Cocodrilos have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 33-9 record. Gaiteros at the other side stay dead last with 37 lost games. Cocodrilos will again play against bottom-ranked Gaiteros (#10) in Maracaibo in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Gaiteros will have a break next round.

Other games of round 53 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Gigantes were defeated by Bucaneros in La Guaira 97-83. Marinos beat Guaiqueries at home 79-68. Panteras won against Guaros on the opponent's court 120-111.

Bucaneros - Gigantes 97-83

There was no surprise in La Guaira where 6th ranked Gigantes (22-21) were defeated by fourth ranked Bucaneros (24-20) 97-83. Bucaneros maintains fourth place with 24-20 record. Gigantes lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fifth position with 21 games lost. They share it with Guaiqueries. Bucaneros will again play against Gigantes (#6) in Puerto Ordaz in the next round. Gigantes will have a break next round.
gschID: 121614


Marinos - Guaiqueries 79-68

No shocking result in a game in Puerto La Cruz where second ranked Marinos (32-11) defeated 5th ranked Guaiqueries (22-21) 79-68. Marinos have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain second place with 32-11 record behind leader Cocodrilos. Guaiqueries at the other side keep the fifth position with 21 games lost. They share it with Gigantes. Marinos will again play against Guaiqueries (#5) in Porlamar in the next round. Guaiqueries will have a break next round.
gschID: 121611


Guaros - Panteras 111-120

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 9th ranked Guaros' (13-29) home loss to eighth ranked Panteras (16-27) 111-120. Panteras maintains eighth place with 16-27 record. Guaros at the other side keep the ninth position with 29 games lost. Panteras will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Guaros will play again at home against Panteras (#8) in Caracas and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 121612


Toros - Trotamundos 98-89

The game between third ranked Trotamundos (30-13) and seventh ranked Toros (17-26) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. Trotamundos were defeated by Toros in a tough game in Maracay 89-98. Toros maintains seventh place with 17-26 record. Trotamundos at the other side keep the third position with 13 games lost. Toros are again looking forward to face higher ranked Trotamundos (#3) in Valencia in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Trotamundos will have a break next round.
gschID: 121613


Cocodrilos - Gaiteros 88-73

Leader Cocodrilos delivered the 33th win. This time they beat 10th ranked Gaiteros (6-37) 88-73 in Caracas. Cocodrilos have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 33-9 record. Gaiteros at the other side stay dead last with 37 lost games. Cocodrilos will again play against bottom-ranked Gaiteros (#10) in Maracaibo in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Gaiteros will have a break next round.
gschID: 121610




Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
 1. Cocodrilos 33-9 
 2. Marinos 32-11 
 3. Trotamundos 30-13 
 4. Bucaneros 24-20 
 5. Guaiqueries 22-21 
 6. Gigantes 22-21 
 7. Toros 17-26 
 8. Panteras 16-27 
 9. Guaros 13-29 
 10. Gaiteros 6-37 




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Women News

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Metropolis Fremantle Cockburn Cougars had a thrilling win against the Australian Central Eagles - by Eurobasket News
In the womens league, Metropolis Fremantle Cockburn Cougars also had a thrilling win against the Australian Central Eagles, taking out the match by 10 points.

The Cougars put on the defensive pressure in the first quarter, making it hard for the Eagles to capitalise on scoring opportunities.

Impressive efforts from Cougars Emma Pass (179-F-80) (18 points overall) and Courtney Hargreaves (91) (12 points) saw the side lead 20-14 at the end of the first quarter.

Pass scored the first basket of the third quarter, widening the lead as the Eagles failed to block out the attacking Cockburn side.

The final quarter saw the Eagles rush to narrow the gap, and guard Kate Fielding, who was playing in her 200th match, stepped up to the challenge, scored an impressive three-pointer late in the match to get her side back in contention.

Despite a few last-minute baskets, the sixth-placed Eagles went down 63-53 to a determined Cockburn squad, who are outside the top four only on percentage.

Article by Hannah Jenkins at Wally Hagan Stadium
Courtesy of: SBL



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  BELARUS - Women  


Spain win Linares Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Spain - Belarus 57:52

Spain clinched the title at Ciudad de Linares international friendly tournament. They overcame Belarus today to earn the third win in as many games. Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Alba Torrens (188-F-89) scored 11 points each to lead the hosts.
Spain marked their ambitions early in the encounter. They limited Belarus to 8 points to take an 18:8 advantage. Spain maintained the pressure throughout the second stanza. They arrived at halftime up by 15 points 32:17. Belarus changed complexion of the encounter after the big break. They shot the hosts down defensively and cut the distance to just 4 points with one period remaining 35:39. But Spain hung on well in the fourth term and eked out a difficult win at the end. Lucila Pascua (195-C-83) notched 9 points in the victory. Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) answered with 12 points for Belarus. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-C-87) accounted for 9 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.

Spain: Amaya Valdemoro 11, Alba Torrens 11, Lucila Pascua 9
Belarus: Tatyana Troina 12, Anastasiya Veremeenko 9


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  BULGARIA - Women  


Bulgaria wins the first in EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
UKRAINE - BULGARIA 68-70

Bulgaria registered first win at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Round. They handed 70-68 loss to Ukraine improving to 1-1 in Group A. It was the first appearance for Ukraine at this tournament. Doneeka Hodges (175-G-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU) was totally the best player in victory as she collected 27 points and 5 rebounds. Hodges reached valuation 21 and was the MVP of this meeting. Jaklin Zlatanova (190-F-88) had 16 pts and 7 boards, and Ekaterina Dimitrova (182-G-87) added 12 pts. Ukraine got 11 points from Maryna Sazonenko (175-G-86, college: Oregon St.), while Inna Kochubei (174-G-82) and Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) (6 rebs) added 10 pts each. Question about the winner is resolved in the last quarter, which belonged to Bulgaria 15-20. Alina Iagupova made it a one-point game with a lay-up with four seconds left, and Ukraine quickly fouled Daniela Peteva. She split her free throws, but there was not enough time for Ukraine to hoist another shot. Bulgaria will have a day off tomorrow, while Ukraine will meet Hungary.

Ukraine: Maryna Sazonenko 11, Olena Zherzherunova 10+6 boards, Inna Kochubei 10
Bulgaria: Doneeka Hodges 27+5 boards, Jaklin Zlatanova 16+7 boards, Ekaterina Dimitrova 12

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  CROATIA - Women  


Croatia outscore Turkey in Linares - by Eurobasket News
Croatia - Turkey 77:72

Croatia earned the second place at Linares Tournament in Spain. They overcame Turkey to improve at 2-1 record. Turkey in the meantime suffered the third defeat in a row.
Croatia opened the game with a 9:2 run but Turkey struck right back. They went on a 10:0 run to surge ahead. The teams traded baskets then before Alben made it 20:19 for Turkey after ten minutes. Turkey extended their lead to 8 points early in the second frame. Croatia capped the first half with five points in a row to cut the deficit at three points 30:33. Mandir and Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) drained three-pointers early in the third term to put Croatia in charge. Ana Lelas accounted for 11 points in the period as Croatia headed into the fourth quarter up by 5 points 55:50. Mazic and Marta Cakic (175-G-82) secured a 7-point lead for Croatia midway through the final quarter. Soon Marta Cakic and Ciglar boosted the lead to 10 points. Palazoglu and Vardarli dragged Turkey within 3 points but Mandir and Ciglar hit from beyond the arc and sealed the victory for Croatia. Ana Lelas and Marta Cakic finished with 14 points each for Croatia. Jelena Ivezic (182-F/G-84) contributed 11 points and 9 rebounds in the win. Nevin Nevlin (195-C-85, college: Stanford) replied with 24 points and 7 rebounds for Turkey. Yasemin Horasan (187-F/C-83) dropped 14 points in the loss.

Croatia: Ana Lelas 14, Marta Cakic 14, Jelena Ivezic 11
Turkey: Nevin Nevlin 24, Yasemin Horasan 14


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualification Tournament: Day One - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Bulgaria - Finland 57-61
Finland did a great job in the first round of EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualification Tournament. They grabbed 57-61 victory against Bulgaria for 1-0 score in Group A. Earlier today Hungary blasted Holland 68-39. Only the winner of this tournament will book a ticket for Poland. Taru Tuukkanen was a key player for Finland today registering double-double of 14 points and 14 rebounds. Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, college: Lamar) also scored 14, while Heta Korpivaara (187-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall) added 9 points in this victory. Zoya Stanoeva (182-F-76, agency: Global Sports Plaza) responded with 14 points in defeat. Doneeka Hodges (175-G-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU) and Roksana Yordanova (184-G-84) had 12 and 9 pts respectively. The game winner is decided in the finish. The teams traded baskets with Jaklin Zlatanova's jump-shot putting Bulgaria in striking distance, 60-57, with 1:18 to go. They got their chance when Heta Korpivaara turned the ball over with 13 seconds left, but Doneeka Hodges' three-pointer came up empty and Heta Korpivaara redeemed herself at the free-throw line. Quarters: 19-16, 13-16, 12-16, 13-13.
In the second round, which will be played tomorrow, Finland will meet Hungary. Bulgaria will take on Ukraine.

Hungary - Holland 68-39
Hungary opened EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualification Tournament in style. They smashed Holland tonight 68-39 for 1-0 record in Group A. Except of Hungary and Holland, participants of the same pool are also Finland, Bulgaria and Ukraine. There is also Group B and only the winner of this tournament will book a spot for Poland. Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) and Tijana Krivacevic (194-F-90) were the leading scorers in Hungary with 13 points each. Orsolya Szecsi (190-G/F-92) followed them with 12 points and 6 boards. On the other side, Holland had just one player with double-digits in scoring and it was Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, college: Cal-Irvine) with 13 pts. Fieke Ligthart (184-F/C-90) stopped to 7 points and 7 rebs. Hungary took control on their rival from the very beginning and had no troubles to register comfortable win (20-4, 21-13, 10-11, 17-11).
In the second round, Hungary will meet Finland. Holland will have a day off.



Group B
Serbia - Romania 77-64
Serbia won in their EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualification Tournament opener for 1-0 score in Group B. Serbians were better than Romania 77-64. Jelena Milovanovic (190-F-89) top-scored for the winners with 18 points, while Jelena Maksimovic (192-C-82, agency: Sport Connect) added 13 points and 10 boards. Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79) followed with 10 pts and 6 rebs in victory. Gabriela Marginean (185-F-87, college: Drexel) had 12 points in loss and Ancuta Stoenescu (171-G-80, agency: Data Plus Group) scored 11. Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) contributed with 9 points and 5 rebs for Romania. Serbia had wonderful first quarter (32-14) and managed to keep a safe distance for rest of the game. Two teams are placed to Group B together with Germany, Belgium and Italy.
Tomorrow, Serbia will meet Italy. Romania will play against Germany. It is important to mention that just the winner of AQT will book a ticket for Poland.

Germany - Belgium 69-57
Germany had nice beginning of EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualification Tournament. They were too strong for Belgium handing them 69-57 loss. Romy Bar (189-F-87, agency: LBM Management) stepped up for the winners with 14 points and 13 rebounds. Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) also secured nice help adding 14 points and Lisa Koop (197-C-85, college: Winthrop) had one point less than her. Belgium got 11 points from Lieselot Malfait (190-C-87, college: IPFW) and Noemie Mayombo (171-G-91, agency: LBM Management). Miete Celus (176-G/F-91) stopped to 9. Germany and Belgium are together with Serbia, Romania and Italy placed to Group B. There are five more teams in Group A and just the winner of this tournament will advance to EuroBasket. Germany celebrated tonight thanks to great first (25-17) and last quarter (19-14).
In the second round, Germany will meet Romania. Belgium will have a day off and will try to prepare better for their next meeting (Romania).

Additional Qualifying Tournament: Day Two recap - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Ukraine - Bulgaria 68-70
Bulgaria registered first win at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Round. They handed 70-68 loss to Ukraine improving to 1-1 in Group A. It was the first appearance for Ukraine at this tournament. Doneeka Hodges (175-G-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU) was totally the best player in victory as she collected 27 points and 5 rebounds. Hodges reached valuation 21 and was the MVP of this meeting. Jaklin Zlatanova (190-F-88) had 16 pts and 7 boards, and Ekaterina Dimitrova (182-G-87) added 12 pts. Ukraine got 11 points from Maryna Sazonenko (175-G-86, college: Oregon St.), while Inna Kochubei (174-G-82) and Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) (6 rebs) added 10 pts each. Question about the winner is resolved in the last quarter, which belonged to Bulgaria 15-20. Alina Iagupova made it a one-point game with a lay-up with four seconds left, and Ukraine quickly fouled Daniela Peteva. She split her free throws, but there was not enough time for Ukraine to hoist another shot. Bulgaria will have a day off tomorrow, while Ukraine will meet Hungary.

Finland - Hungary 51-65
Hungary stays undefeated after two days at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament. They outplayed Finland tonight 65-51 for 2-0 record in Group A. At the same time Finland dropped to 1-1. Dora Horti (195-C-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) paced the winning squad with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Katalin Honti (175-G-87) helped with 13 points and 8 assists, while Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) added 12 pts and 7 boards. In defeat, Heta Korpivaara (187-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall) delivered 13 points and Tina Sten (189-G/F-85, college: St.John's) had 11 pts. Hungary opened the game better making 15-18 lead and they took full control on Finland in the second period. It ended with 11-21 for Hungary, who was 13 points up at the HT. They had no troubles to keep it for rest of the way and to secure the comfortable win. On Sunday, Hungary will meet Ukraine, while Finland will play against Holland.

Group B
Italy - Serbia 76-55
Italy demonstrated great performance in their first appearance at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament. Italy was too strong for Serbia handing them 76-55 loss. It was the second game for Serbia, who dropped to 1-1 now. Italy made plus 9 in the first half and Serbia was not able to reply after the breather. Third period ended with 18-18 and Italy dominated in the last ten minutes 18-6 for the final 21-point win. Chiara Consolini (182-F-88) stepped up for her team with 17 points for 19 minutes on the court. Jenifer Nadalin (187-F/C-83, college: Furman) scored 11 and Kathrin Ress (196-C-85, college: Boston Coll.) added 10 points, plus 9 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Jelena Milovanovic (190-F-89) delivered 12 points and Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79) had two less.
Italy will meet Germany tomorrow. Serbia will have a day off.

Romania - Germany 65-59
Romania celebrated their first win at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament. They outplayed Germany 65-59 so both teams have 1-1 record in Group B now. Romania made a solid lead in the first quarter (22-14), which helped them to win this game at the end. Germany threatened in the finish, but was not able to make a turn. Gabriela Marginean (185-F-87, college: Drexel) shined in victory with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Maria Pascalau (193-C-82) had 14 pts and 5 boards, while Ancuta Stoenescu (171-G-80, agency: Data Plus Group) helped her team with 10 points and 5 boards. In Germany, Dorothea Richter (176-G-83) collected 18 points and 9 rebounds. Romy Bar (189-F-87, agency: LBM Management) had 17 pts, 10 boards and 5 assists, while Sarah Austmann (179-G/F-85) added 10 pts and 8 rebs.
In Day Three, Romania will meet Belgium. Germany will play against Italy, who blasted Serbia today.



Stats Leaders Div.A (Women)
Points Per Game
 Doneeka HODGES
  USA
  (175-G-82)
  Avg: 19.5
 1. Hodges, BUL19.5 
 2. Consolini, ITA17.0 
 3. Marginean, ROM16.5 
 4. Bar, GER15.5 
 5. Milovanovic, SRB15.0 
 6. Halman, NED13.0 
 7. Richter, GER12.5 
 8. Fegyverneky, HUN12.5 
 9. Zlatanova, BUL12.0 
 10. Tuukkanen, FIN11.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Romy BAR
  GER
  (189-F-87)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Bar, GER11.5 
 2. Ress, ITA9.0 
 3. Hendrickx, BEL9.0 
 4. Tuukkanen, FIN8.5 
 5. Meesseman, BEL8.0 
 6. Austmann, GER8.0 
 7. Ligthart, NED7.0 
 8. Szecsi, HUN7.0 
 9. Maksimovic, SRB7.0 
 10. Richter, GER6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Francesca ZARA
  (177-G-76)
  Avg: 5
 1. Zara, ITA5.0 
 2. Honti, HUN5.0 
 3. Kochubei, UKR4.0 
 4. Sottana, ITA4.0 
 5. Zlatanova, BUL3.0 
 6. Bar, GER3.0 
 7. Masciadri, ITA3.0 
 8. Ciappina, BEL3.0 
 9. Menz, GER2.5 
 10. Richter, GER2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Romy BAR
  GER
  (189-F-87)
  Avg: 4
 1. Bar, GER4.0 
 2. Szecsi, HUN3.0 
 3. Honti, HUN3.0 
 4. Krivacevic, HUN2.5 
 5. Pascalau, ROM2.5 
 6. Gross, FIN2.5 
 7. Peteva, BUL2.5 
 8. Breitreiner, GER2.5 
 9. Knezevic, SRB2.5 
 10. Marginean, ROM2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Lyubov ALYOSHKINA
  RUS
  (202-C-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Alyoshkina, UKR2.0 
 2. Vajda, HUN2.0 
 3. Marginean, ROM1.5 
 4. Celus, BEL1.0 
 5. Austmann, GER1.0 
 6. Ballardini, ITA1.0 
 7. Halman, NED1.0 
 8. Khomenchuk, UKR1.0 
 9. Matic, SRB0.5 
 10. Richter, GER0.5 


Standings Div.A (Women)
Standings
Group A
1. Lithuania0-0
2. Russia0-0
3. Slovakia0-0
4. Turkey0-0
Group B
1. Belarus0-0
2. Czech Repu.0-0
3. U.Kingdom0-0
4. Israel0-0
Group C
1. Spain0-0
2. Montenegro.0-0
3. Poland0-0
Group D
1. Croatia0-0
2. France0-0
3. Greece0-0
4. Latvia0-0
Group Qualif. Gr.A
1. Hungary2-0
2. Bulgaria1-1
3. Finland1-1
4. Holland0-1
5. Ukraine0-1
Group Qualif. Gr.B
1. Italy1-0
2. Romania1-1
3. Serbia1-1
4. Germany1-1
5. Belgium0-1


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  FINLAND - Women  


Hungary too much for Finland, 65-51 - by Eurobasket News
FINLAND - HUNGARY 51-65

Hungary stays undefeated after two days at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament. They outplayed Finland tonight 65-51 for 2-0 record in Group A. At the same time Finland dropped to 1-1. Dora Horti (195-C-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) paced the winning squad with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Katalin Honti (175-G-87) helped with 13 points and 8 assists, while Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) added 12 pts and 7 boards. In defeat, Heta Korpivaara (187-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall) delivered 13 points and Tina Sten (189-G/F-85, college: St.John's) had 11 pts. Hungary opened the game better making 15-18 lead and they took full control on Finland in the second period. It ended with 11-21 for Hungary, who was 13 points up at the HT. They had no troubles to keep it for rest of the way and to secure the comfortable win. On Sunday, Hungary will meet Ukraine, while Finland will play against Holland.

Finland: Heta Korpivaara 13, Tina Sten 11
Hungary: Dora Horti 18+5 boards, Katalin Honti 13+8 as, Zsofia Fegyverneky 12+7 boards

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  GERMANY - Women  


Romania celebrates 65-59 win against Germany - by Eurobasket News
ROMANIA - GERMANY 65-59

Romania celebrated their first win at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament. They outplayed Germany 65-59 so both teams have 1-1 record in Group B now. Romania made a solid lead in the first quarter (22-14), which helped them to win this game at the end. Germany threatened in the finish, but was not able to make a turn. Gabriela Marginean (185-F-87, college: Drexel) shined in victory with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Maria Pascalau (193-C-82) had 14 pts and 5 boards, while Ancuta Stoenescu (171-G-80, agency: Data Plus Group) helped her team with 10 points and 5 boards. In Germany, Dorothea Richter (176-G-83) collected 18 points and 9 rebounds. Romy Bar (189-F-87, agency: LBM Management) had 17 pts, 10 boards and 5 assists, while Sarah Austmann (179-G/F-85) added 10 pts and 8 rebs.
In Day Three, Romania will meet Belgium. Germany will play against Italy, who blasted Serbia today.

Romania: Gabriela Marginean 21+6 boards, Maria Pascalau 14+5 boards, Ancuta Stoenescu 10+5 boards
Germany: Dorothea Richter 18+9 boards, Romy Bar 17+10 boards+5 as, Sarah Austmann 10+8 boards

Hicran Ozen heads to TSV Wasserburg - by Eurobasket News
Hicran Ozen (169-G-81) heads to TSV Wasserburg as it will be her first team after 7 years with Marburg. The German Guard decided to leave the team and will help TSV Wasserburg in the next season.
With Marburg Hicran Ozen reached German DBBL Semifinals -05, 10, 11, German DBBL Cup Semifinals -11 and became German DBBL Regular Season Champion -11. She is also German National Team member in-06, 08.
In 2009-2010 for BC Pharmaserv Marburg (DBBL) she averaged 6.6ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 19.4%, FT: 67.9%. In her last season there the stats read 6.4ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 72.6%.
Hicran Ozen recorded 15 points twice in the last season with the last one at the Regular Season Round 10. First ranked Marburg crushed Oberhausen with a record 97-74. International swingman Sandra Weber scored 25 points to led the charge for the winners, American forward Shenita Landry helped with 18 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and Hicran Ozen posted 15.



Alex Maerz announced U18 team - by Eurobasket News
Alexandra Maerz announced U18 team that will represent the country at the U18 European Championship.

Kristin Annawald (186-F-94) (Rhein-Main Baskets)
Carla Bellscheidt (183-F-94) (TSV Grnberg)
Keisha Carthuser (TSV Grnberg)
Pia Dietrich (168-G-94) (Rhein-Main Baskets),
Elisabeth Dzirma (179-G-94) (TSV Grnberg),
Sophie Eder (TSV Nrdlingen/HELI Donau-Ries),
Lena Gohlisch (175-G-93) (Berlin Baskets),
Marie Glich (Rhndorfer TV),
Laura Hebecker (SV Halle),
Anna Heise (190-C-93) (SV Halle),
Mary Ann Mihalyi (Basketball 4 Girls Chemnitz),
Hannah Pakulat (180-F-94) (BG 89 Rotenburg),
Fanny Szittya (170-G-94) (TSV Nrdlingen/HELI Donau-Ries),
Caroline van der Velde (SG Kln 99ers).


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  HUNGARY - Women  


Hungary too much for Finland, 65-51 - by Eurobasket News
FINLAND - HUNGARY 51-65

Hungary stays undefeated after two days at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament. They outplayed Finland tonight 65-51 for 2-0 record in Group A. At the same time Finland dropped to 1-1. Dora Horti (195-C-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) paced the winning squad with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Katalin Honti (175-G-87) helped with 13 points and 8 assists, while Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) added 12 pts and 7 boards. In defeat, Heta Korpivaara (187-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall) delivered 13 points and Tina Sten (189-G/F-85, college: St.John's) had 11 pts. Hungary opened the game better making 15-18 lead and they took full control on Finland in the second period. It ended with 11-21 for Hungary, who was 13 points up at the HT. They had no troubles to keep it for rest of the way and to secure the comfortable win. On Sunday, Hungary will meet Ukraine, while Finland will play against Holland.

Finland: Heta Korpivaara 13, Tina Sten 11
Hungary: Dora Horti 18+5 boards, Katalin Honti 13+8 as, Zsofia Fegyverneky 12+7 boards

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  ITALY - Women  


Italy cruises past Serbia 76-55 - by Eurobasket News
ITALY - SERBIA 76-55

Italy demonstrated great performance in their first appearance at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament. Italy was too strong for Serbia handing them 76-55 loss. It was the second game for Serbia, who dropped to 1-1 now. Italy made plus 9 in the first half and Serbia was not able to reply after the breather. Third period ended with 18-18 and Italy dominated in the last ten minutes 18-6 for the final 21-point win. Chiara Consolini (182-F-88) stepped up for her team with 17 points for 19 minutes on the court. Jenifer Nadalin (187-F/C-83, college: Furman) scored 11 and Kathrin Ress (196-C-85, college: Boston Coll.) added 10 points, plus 9 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Jelena Milovanovic (190-F-89) delivered 12 points and Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79) had two less.
Italy will meet Germany tomorrow. Serbia will have a day off.

Italy: Chiara Consolini 17, Jenifer Nadalin 11, Kathrin Ress 10
Serbia: Jelena Milovanovic 12, Ivanka Matic 10

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  LEBANON - Women  


Lebanese Women National Team to FIBA Asia Championship - by Asia-Basket Lebanon
The Lebanese women national team, will start its preparations for the next FIBA Asia women championship which will be held in Omura - Nagasaki,Japan. For this reason the coaching staff under the command of coach Elie Nasr will start its preparations next week,the team will be joined by a lebanese Auatralian player called Danielle Daoud. The FLB is looking to nationalize a player to help the team to stay in Level A, Lebanon in 2009 qualified to Level A in India after beating Thialand in the Barrage games.

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  NCAA1 - Women  


UofL assistant leaves for job with Weber State - by Eurobasket News
University of Louisville assistant women's basketball coach Devan Newman has left the program to take a position with Weber State in Utah.

Newman is joining the staff of head coach Bethann Ord, a former U of L assistant who now is Weber State's head coach

Ord told The Courier-Journal that Newman will help with all parts of the program.

At Louisville, Newman spent two seasons as special assistant to head coach Jeff Walz and a season as a graduate assistant with the Cardinals.

Newman assisted with workouts, focusing on individual player development, and helped with recruiting, academic services and game preparation. As special assistant she helped coordinate the Cardinals' travel and daily activities.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

WNBA alumnae relishing new roles - by Eurobasket News
Former W.N.B.A. players are helping develop the womens game through college coaching.

As the league enters its 15th season, there are 17 former W.N.B.A. players serving as college head coaches and another two dozen working as assistants. As their numbers continue to increase, so will the W.N.B.A.s influence on the game.

As she enters her second season at the University of San Francisco, Jennifer Azzi knows her professional playing career including four years in the W.N.B.A. gives her credibility with players and recruits.

'I find when I can sit down and talk to a recruit or a current player, they absolutely respect the fact that Ive physically done it', Azzi said. 'They know weve done it and were not sitting from some pedestal saying, Here's what you do.'

Coaches like Louisiana Techs Teresa Weatherspoon and North Carolina-Greensboros Wendy Palmer-Daniel were among those who played in the W.N.B.A.s inaugural season in 1997. Others like South Carolinas Dawn Staley and Hartfords Jennifer Rizzotti arrived shortly after playing in the now-defunct American Basketball League.

There are two players in the league who were coached by former W.N.B.A. players: the five-year veteran Candice Dupree in Phoenix, who played for Staley at Temple; and the 6-foot-6 Chicago rookie Carolyn Swords, who was mentored by the 6-5 Sylvia Crawley at Boston College.

Swords said Crawleys W.N.B.A. experience gave her someone to ask about anything, like what to pack and what to expect in training camp.

Coach Crawley definitely teaches from experience, Swords said. I understand and appreciate that perspective. When she says something, its from firsthand experience. The packages of moves that she taught, small details in positioning. It prepared me to understand the terminology in training camp.

Renee Brown, the leagues chief of basketball operations and player relations, said W.N.B.A.-players-turned-coaches knew what it took to succeed and could help players.

Theyre getting these players prepared, Brown said. You get a young player and she gets a chance to be coached by a player she has watched, its got to be a great thing.

Brown said former W.N.B.A. players numbers in the coaching ranks would continue to grow.

Palmer is an example.

She was an all-American under Debbie Ryan at Virginia before starting a professional career that included 11 years in the W.N.B.A. and stops in Spain, Brazil, Hungary, Turkey, Italy and Russia. She was also an assistant at Virginia Commonwealth, Kentucky and Virginia before taking over at U.N.C.-Greensboro in April.

Whatever you decided to do after the ball bounces the last time, you have a responsibility because the W.N.B.A. and the professional experiences overseas have taught us something great, Palmer said. It would be a tragedy to let it die with us.

At North Carolina-Wilmington, Cynthia Cooper-Dyke talks to recruits about her playing days, too, though she said it was more to illustrate that she knows how to win than to tout her own statistics. Still, those accolades can only help. She was the W.N.B.A.s most valuable player in its first two seasons and was a four-time finals M.V.P. while leading the Houston Comets to four consecutive championships.

After a successful five-season run at Prairie View, Cooper-Dyke led the Seahawks to a team-record 24 victories and their first postseason appearance, in the Womens National Invitation Tournament last season.

Its not just about the name, but you have to make sure they understand that youre going to teach them as well, Cooper-Dyke said. For me, its been my passion. I know how to win. Ive won on every level Ive participated on, and now its my turn to teach how to win and be a successful person and a successful basketball player.

Courtesy of www.nytimes.com

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  ROMANIA - Women  


Romania celebrates 65-59 win against Germany - by Eurobasket News
ROMANIA - GERMANY 65-59

Romania celebrated their first win at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament. They outplayed Germany 65-59 so both teams have 1-1 record in Group B now. Romania made a solid lead in the first quarter (22-14), which helped them to win this game at the end. Germany threatened in the finish, but was not able to make a turn. Gabriela Marginean (185-F-87, college: Drexel) shined in victory with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Maria Pascalau (193-C-82) had 14 pts and 5 boards, while Ancuta Stoenescu (171-G-80, agency: Data Plus Group) helped her team with 10 points and 5 boards. In Germany, Dorothea Richter (176-G-83) collected 18 points and 9 rebounds. Romy Bar (189-F-87, agency: LBM Management) had 17 pts, 10 boards and 5 assists, while Sarah Austmann (179-G/F-85) added 10 pts and 8 rebs.
In Day Three, Romania will meet Belgium. Germany will play against Italy, who blasted Serbia today.

Romania: Gabriela Marginean 21+6 boards, Maria Pascalau 14+5 boards, Ancuta Stoenescu 10+5 boards
Germany: Dorothea Richter 18+9 boards, Romy Bar 17+10 boards+5 as, Sarah Austmann 10+8 boards

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  SERBIA - Women  


Italy cruises past Serbia 76-55 - by Eurobasket News
ITALY - SERBIA 76-55

Italy demonstrated great performance in their first appearance at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament. Italy was too strong for Serbia handing them 76-55 loss. It was the second game for Serbia, who dropped to 1-1 now. Italy made plus 9 in the first half and Serbia was not able to reply after the breather. Third period ended with 18-18 and Italy dominated in the last ten minutes 18-6 for the final 21-point win. Chiara Consolini (182-F-88) stepped up for her team with 17 points for 19 minutes on the court. Jenifer Nadalin (187-F/C-83, college: Furman) scored 11 and Kathrin Ress (196-C-85, college: Boston Coll.) added 10 points, plus 9 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Jelena Milovanovic (190-F-89) delivered 12 points and Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79) had two less.
Italy will meet Germany tomorrow. Serbia will have a day off.

Italy: Chiara Consolini 17, Jenifer Nadalin 11, Kathrin Ress 10
Serbia: Jelena Milovanovic 12, Ivanka Matic 10

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  SPAIN - Women  


Spain win Linares Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Spain - Belarus 57:52

Spain clinched the title at Ciudad de Linares international friendly tournament. They overcame Belarus today to earn the third win in as many games. Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Alba Torrens (188-F-89) scored 11 points each to lead the hosts.
Spain marked their ambitions early in the encounter. They limited Belarus to 8 points to take an 18:8 advantage. Spain maintained the pressure throughout the second stanza. They arrived at halftime up by 15 points 32:17. Belarus changed complexion of the encounter after the big break. They shot the hosts down defensively and cut the distance to just 4 points with one period remaining 35:39. But Spain hung on well in the fourth term and eked out a difficult win at the end. Lucila Pascua (195-C-83) notched 9 points in the victory. Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) answered with 12 points for Belarus. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-C-87) accounted for 9 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.

Spain: Amaya Valdemoro 11, Alba Torrens 11, Lucila Pascua 9
Belarus: Tatyana Troina 12, Anastasiya Veremeenko 9


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  TURKEY - Women  


Croatia outscore Turkey in Linares - by Eurobasket News
Croatia - Turkey 77:72

Croatia earned the second place at Linares Tournament in Spain. They overcame Turkey to improve at 2-1 record. Turkey in the meantime suffered the third defeat in a row.
Croatia opened the game with a 9:2 run but Turkey struck right back. They went on a 10:0 run to surge ahead. The teams traded baskets then before Alben made it 20:19 for Turkey after ten minutes. Turkey extended their lead to 8 points early in the second frame. Croatia capped the first half with five points in a row to cut the deficit at three points 30:33. Mandir and Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) drained three-pointers early in the third term to put Croatia in charge. Ana Lelas accounted for 11 points in the period as Croatia headed into the fourth quarter up by 5 points 55:50. Mazic and Marta Cakic (175-G-82) secured a 7-point lead for Croatia midway through the final quarter. Soon Marta Cakic and Ciglar boosted the lead to 10 points. Palazoglu and Vardarli dragged Turkey within 3 points but Mandir and Ciglar hit from beyond the arc and sealed the victory for Croatia. Ana Lelas and Marta Cakic finished with 14 points each for Croatia. Jelena Ivezic (182-F/G-84) contributed 11 points and 9 rebounds in the win. Nevin Nevlin (195-C-85, college: Stanford) replied with 24 points and 7 rebounds for Turkey. Yasemin Horasan (187-F/C-83) dropped 14 points in the loss.

Croatia: Ana Lelas 14, Marta Cakic 14, Jelena Ivezic 11
Turkey: Nevin Nevlin 24, Yasemin Horasan 14


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  UKRAINE - Women  


Bulgaria wins the first in EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
UKRAINE - BULGARIA 68-70

Bulgaria registered first win at the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Round. They handed 70-68 loss to Ukraine improving to 1-1 in Group A. It was the first appearance for Ukraine at this tournament. Doneeka Hodges (175-G-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU) was totally the best player in victory as she collected 27 points and 5 rebounds. Hodges reached valuation 21 and was the MVP of this meeting. Jaklin Zlatanova (190-F-88) had 16 pts and 7 boards, and Ekaterina Dimitrova (182-G-87) added 12 pts. Ukraine got 11 points from Maryna Sazonenko (175-G-86, college: Oregon St.), while Inna Kochubei (174-G-82) and Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) (6 rebs) added 10 pts each. Question about the winner is resolved in the last quarter, which belonged to Bulgaria 15-20. Alina Iagupova made it a one-point game with a lay-up with four seconds left, and Ukraine quickly fouled Daniela Peteva. She split her free throws, but there was not enough time for Ukraine to hoist another shot. Bulgaria will have a day off tomorrow, while Ukraine will meet Hungary.

Ukraine: Maryna Sazonenko 11, Olena Zherzherunova 10+6 boards, Inna Kochubei 10
Bulgaria: Doneeka Hodges 27+5 boards, Jaklin Zlatanova 16+7 boards, Ekaterina Dimitrova 12

Standings (Women)
UPBL Standings
 1. Tim-Scuf 15-2 
 2. Kozachka 15-3 
 3. Dynamo 11-7 
 4. Dnipro-DVUFK 10-7 
 5. Frankivsk 10-7 
 6. Orlan 8-10 
 7. Politeh Basket 7-10 
 8. Yuzhna Palmira 6-11 
 9. Donbas 5-13 
 10. Luganski Last. 0-17 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Alina IAGUPOVA
  Dnipr.
  (181-G-92)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Iagupova, Dnipr.20.3 
 2. Ragin, Dynamo19.5 
 3. Williams, Dnipr.18.0 
 4. Rastorgueva, Donb.17.6 
 5. Yakunina, Lugans.17.4 
 6. Markotenko, Frank.17.4 
 7. Staschuk, Orlan17.3 
 8. Lubarskaya, Dynamo17.1 
 9. Grishina, Lugans.16.2 
 10. Alyoshkina, Orlan16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shantel RAGIN
  Dynamo
  (178-G/F-87)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Ragin, Dynamo10.6 
 2. Staschuk, Orlan10.6 
 3. Alyoshkina, Orlan10.5 
 4. Vukovic, Yuzhna P.9.9 
 5. Zherzherunov., Koz.9.7 
 6. Rimarenko, Dynamo9.5 
 7. Yaburova, Dnipr.9.2 
 8. Zarytska, Kozachka9.0 
 9. Yakunina, Lugans.9.0 
 10. Bovykina, Dnipr.9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Alisa SIROMATNIKOVA
  Yuzhna P.
  (165-G-87)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Siromatnikov., Yuz.5.9 
 2. Sharovka, Tim-Scuf5.0 
 3. Williams, Dnipr.4.7 
 4. Dubrovina, Kozach.4.6 
 5. Iagupova, Dnipr.4.6 
 6. Dubas, Frankivsk4.5 
 7. Lapshynova, Polite.3.9 
 8. Kashlei, Orlan3.8 
 9. Pokoiova, Kozachka3.7 
 10. Voronova, Polite.3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Olga DUBROVINA
  Kozachka
  (170-G-87)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Dubrovina, Kozach.3.9 
 2. Markotenko, Frank.3.5 
 3. Iagupova, Dnipr.3.3 
 4. Sharovka, Tim-Scuf3.1 
 5. Williams, Dnipr.2.9 
 6. Dubas, Frankivsk2.7 
 7. Panchenk-S., Koza.2.2 
 8. Shchypakina, Yuzh.2.2 
 9. Lubarskaya, Dynamo2.1 
 10. Siromatnikov., Yu.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Lyubov ALYOSHKINA
  Orlan
  (202-C-81)
  Avg: 3
 1. Alyoshkina, Orlan3.0 
 2. Zhyrakova, Polite.1.9 
 3. Shablynska, Polite.1.9 
 4. Bovykina, Dnipr.1.6 
 5. Yaburova, Dnipr.1.6 
 6. Kisilova, Kozachka1.1 
 7. Zherzherunov., Koz.1.1 
 8. Yakunina, Lugans.1.0 
 9. Staschuk, Orlan1.0 
 10. Maznichenko, Tim-.0.9 


Kiril Bolshakov takes Kozachka under control - by Eurobasket News
Kiril Bolshakov takes Kozachka under control and will finish with the team as a Head Coach. The team from Zaporozhye is one of the favorites for the Gold medals of the League this season.
In 2004-2005 Kiril Bolshakov coached Azovmash-2 Mariupol (Higher League) and then in 2006-2007 moved to Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk (HigherLeague) women team. In 2008-2009 took Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye (UBL) and stayed with the team until the end of this season.
His Ferro-ZNTU created the loud sensation this season and stunned Azovmash 72:61 in Mariupol to advance into the next round with 3-2 record. The game was mostly controlled by Ferro-ZNTU. Azovmash managed to win second period 23-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was American forward Vincent Hunter who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds.



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  UNITED KINGDOM - Women  


British U20 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
British U20 National Team 2011
#s#
Rebecca Allison
Allison
Rebecca Brough
Brough
Gemma Bullard
Bullard
Renee E. Busch
Busch
Katrin Chiemeka
Chiemeka
#e#5
Rebecca Allison 173-G-91 ODU USA
Rebecca Brough 165-G-91 UWIC Archers United Kingdom
Gemma Bullard 177-G-92 Queen's Canada
Renee E. Busch 174-G-92 Sevenoaks Suns United Kingdom
Katrin Chiemeka 170-G-91 Davidson USA
Ella Clark 190-F-92 Long Beach St. USA
Temitope Fagbenle 191-F-92
Deanne Hayward 170-G-91 Leeds Carnegie United Kingdom
Jessica Hurd 182-F-92 Franklin Pierce USA
Erin McGarrachan 180-G-92 UTEP USA
Josephine Salmon 170-G/F-91 Barking Abbey United Kingdom
Kristie Sheils 170-G-91 Leeds Carnegie United Kingdom
Eilidh Simpson 174-G-92 Sandringham S. Australia
Kathryn Taylor 188-C-91 Colgate USA



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  USBA - Women  


Honda, Golden Corral and others will stay with the WUSBA in the 2011 fall basketball season - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga., (June 4, 2011) --- American Honda, Golden Corral, Subway and Schwinn Bicycle agree to keep the vendor and sponsorship relationship with the Womens United States Basketball Association (WUSBA). The agreements are part of a vendor and sponsor purchase package with the new league.

'We please these companies are going to continue a relationship with our league, however after many unsuccessful attempts to activate a season, we are pleased with this news and their commitment is appreciated and we will honor their businesses', said Kenneth Green, Executive Vice President, WUSBA. 'Initially our agreement with Honda was created in fact that they has been a long-time supporter of sports throughout the world and in the United States.This relationship between Honda and the other vendors with the WUSBA strengthens our connection with target consumers in the southeastern U.S. market, particularly families, sports fans and multicultural audiences. Additionally, the WUSBAs aggressive expansion plans closely align with these companies current southern foot print of local franchises.'

As the official vendor and sponsor supplier to the WUSBA, all companies affiliated with the league will receive rights to all teams in all fifteen WUSBA cities. The agreement will deliver expanded exposure across the WUSBAs southern footprint for grassroots and regional radio audiences, allowing Honda the ability to continue to enhance consumer experiences around their passion for the sport of basketball. The agreement includes utilization of Hondas fleet of vehicles for WUSBA special events and league operations, player appearances, intellectual property, content generation platforms, regional arena exposure, on-site activation at all WUSBA local team basketball games and the culmination of Hondas entitlement of the one of the official automotive supplier to the WUSBA' American Honda has made a long-term commitment to the sport of basketball in the Southeast United States and we look forward to working together as we both grow our business.'

As a part of the compensation package, the WUSBA gives each player and coach a daily meal card redeemable at Golden Corral. 'This company has vast, universal appeal among all age groups and is a perfect brand association for the WUSBA because they are widely known for a sparkling clean environment, coupled with a huge variety of great selections and like the WUSBA their core audience consists mainly of families,' said Duane Jenkins, WUSBA president and C.E.O. 'The Golden Corral brand represents all-American fun, a sense of pride and connection with family and friends.'

In addition to developing new, unique regional programs in partnership with the WUSBA, The sponsors will also be included in the existing WUSBA Youth Outreach initiatives including the WUSBA 2011 Season Ticket Extravaganza. 'The WUSBA is excited to partner with companies that are synonymous with excellence, innovation and great legendary customer service,' said Jenkins.

These companies joins the WUSBAs corporate family including: Official suppliers, vendors and sponsors such as, Air Tran Airlines, Russell Athletic, Outback Steak House, Papa Johns Pizza, Gatorade, Holiday Inn, Visa International and others.

The WUSBA inaugural season is scheduled to begin on August 27, 2011. The WUSBA has fifteen teams, in four divisions, spread out over eight southern states.

Womens United States Basketball Association is a womens professional basketball league based in the United States and features many players from the U.S. and around the world. The 2011 regular season will commence on August 27, 2011 and will conclude November 4, 2011. The league has expansion plans that will develop additional teams within its American footprint.

Contact (404) 428-3411


WUSBA moves Open House and Job Fair to August 13, 2011; each team will have 20- 30 jobs available - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga. (June 4, 2011) ---The Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) announced today that the league has moved the Open House and a Job Fair in each individual team city to August 13, 2011. The Open Houses will take place at the home gymnasiums of each individual team. Each team will conduct a job fair, at the same time, in an effort to fill position with individual teams.

The league was to begin its first season with a summer schedule, however some of the gymnasiums were found not to have central air conditioning. Potential injury to basketball players and other liability issues prompted the league to play in the fall. 'Some of the arenas we wish to rent are older buildings, asking a college if their gymnasium had AC, didn't even cross my mind', said Duane Jenkins WUSBA president and C.E.O.' 'Besides we now have an opportunity to employ basketball players who could not get jobs in Europe this fall, this seems to be very popular with the players we spoke with about our decision'.

Churches, civic groups and fans of each team are invited to come and get autographs, take pictures with the teams and get to know the players who will be representing each individual city. A special invitation has been extended to the Boys and Girls Clubs as well as Big Brothers and Big Sisters organizations. 'We are also extending a very special invitation to children in the foster care system in each city.'

The Open Houses will take place on Saturday August 13, 2011 from 11 am to 7 pm. Refreshments such as hot dogs, soft drinks, chips and other snacks being provided free of charge by Coca-Cola or Pepsi-Cola. Each soft drink company has contractual agreements in place at the college or university under agreement with the WUSBA. Randstad Employment Service, Inc. will conduct the interview process.

Jenkins states, 'This is an opportunity for us to get to know our supporters and fans in each city. We want our fans to be able to have autographs signed and quite simply, fans will be able to talk to the players on a more personal level. We will conduct a job fair on these dates to fulfill positions with the teams.' The league will employ 20 to 30 people at each home game.

Each local team will conduct interviews for game day staff as well as the introduction of the basketball team, the coaching staff, dance team and mascots.

The league will make season ticket packages available. The open house will mark the continued availability of the 2011 WUSBA Season Ticket Extravaganza. This season ticket promotion is sponsored by the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., along with the advertisers and sponsors of the WUSBA. The league has set aside 1500 single season tickets for this promotion. 'This collaborated effort includes the WUSBA, the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., and many of the leagues partners, sponsors and advertisers,' said Jenkins.

The league has set the price of $105.00 per season ticket and comes with admission to all thirteen home games and as an extra added bonus each season ticket comes with an additional seven free single game tickets; this includes admittance to all home playoff games. As a bonus, fans receive priority seating, complimentary concessions, a free game day program and one 8 x11 full color photograph with the basketball team or the dance team. (The total number of admittance per season ticket is 21, which breaks down to $5.00 per admittance)

According to the league, each season ticket holder will be automatically included in a raffle sponsored by the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc. 'We're very excited about this promotion. Not only do fans get a chance to see high quality basketball at affordable prices, but there is the chance to win a new car, go on a seafarer excursion or to go on a Disney World vacation.''

The prize list is as follows:

* Grand Prize: 2011 Honda Accord LX Four Door Automobile
(one automobile will be given away in each WUSBA city, 15 total league wide),

* 2nd Prize: Disney World Family Vacation
(Family of four, rt airfare on Delta Airlines, transfers to and from the airport, daily Disney World Park passes, meals and lodging at a Disney World theme park hotel included, two given away in each WUSBA team city, 30 total league wide),

* 3rd prize: The Seafarer Odyssey
( Trip for two to Miami, Florida, round trip airfare on Air Tran, two round trip cruise to Nassau, Bahamas, overnight stay at Holiday Inn Intercontinental Hotel, one day car rental from Enterprise, dinner for two at Outback Steak House and breakfast for two at International House of Pancakes, two given away in each WUSBA team city, 30 total league wide.)

* 4th Prize: The Schwinn Bicycle Explosion
(Six mens, six womans, six boys and six girls ten speed bicycles, 24 given away at each WUSBA team city, 360 total league wide)

* 5th Prize: The Outback Steak House Family Feast
(A $60.00 gift card, 25 given away in each WUSBA team city, 375 total league wide)

*6th Prize: The Great Kroger Gasoline Fill-up Extravaganza (A $40.00 gift card, 25 given away in each WUSBA city, 375 total league wide)

* 7th Prize: Russell Athletic Team Polo Shirts
(25 shirts will be given away in each WUSBA team city, 375 total league wide)

All drawings for this promotion will be held at halftime of the teams home season opener. 'As far as we know, this one of the biggest and most extravagant season ticket promotion in the history of sports.' said Jenkins. Fans can visit our website for rules and disclaimers about the raffle and the Women's United States Basketball Association. 'We plan to begin our first season with a bang. All of our games will be geared toward top notched basketball competition, family fun and entertainment surrounded in a faith based environment, our goal is to offer each community a great experience', proclaimed Mr. Jenkins. For more information, call the WUSBA league office at (404) 428-3411.

About the Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) --- The WUSBA is a summertime professional women's basketball league. The league was founded in January 2010. The league is headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. The WUSBA will show case players, coaches and dance team members to each local community. The league's inaugural season begins on August 27, 2011 with the regular season ending on November 4, 2011. Each team will play a twenty six game schedule, which will include 13 home games and 13 away games. The league will host a mid season All Star Game and a season ending Championship play-off series. The WUSBA will accept eligible collegiate players, dance team members, game day staff and mascots from the NCAA. League advises college students to seek advice from family, coach or friends before contacting the WUSBA. The league age limit for basketball players is 20 years old or older.

About the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., --- The WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., is a 501 (c) (3) not for profit company; the company was founded in January 2010. Approval for nonprofit status has been applied for and approval will be awarded. The WUSBA Youth Outreach gives aid to people in the community in need, regardless of race, gender, religion, age or any other positions of a persons life. Programs offered by the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc

2011 WUSBA Season Ticket Extravaganza Rules and Disclaimer:
Purchase of a season ticket to any 2011 WUSBA team necessary to be included in the raffle drawing. The WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc. is the sponsor of this promotion. This promotion is open to all residents of West Virginia, Kentucky, Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida, Virginia and North Carolina who purchase a season ticket during this promotion. Promotion ends August 27, 2011 at 12 noon. WUSBA employees, family member of WUSBA employees, team members, Season Ticket Extravaganza sponsors, their employees and their families are ineligible to participate in this promotion. Participants must be at least 18 years old to participate in this promotion. One entry in raffle per season ticket purchased. No other restrictions apply. No substitution of prizes. Prizes are not refundable or transferable. Prize winners are responsible for all taxes and /or gratuity associated with prizes won in this promotion. Odds of winning any prize in this promotion will be determined in direct relation of the number of season tickets sold during this promotion. (Example: 2000 season tickets sold per WUSBA team season, Grand Prize winning odds are 2000 to 1, 2nd prize winning odds are 1000 to 1, 3rd Prize winning odds are 1000 to 1, 4th Prize winning odds are 83 to 1. The 5th, 6th and 7th prizes winning odds are 80 to 1. The WUSBA has set aside 2000 season tickets per WUSBA team city to be sold, a total 28,000 league wide. Odds of winning a prize in this promotion are derived on a per city basis only. If two season tickets are purchased by the same individual for the 2011 basketball season and before 12 noon on August 27, 2011 the odds will increase to give the ticket holder double the chance of winning a prize. This promotion is a WUSBA Youth Outreach sponsored event. The WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., is a 501 (c) (3) Not for Profit Company. Single ticket purchases are not included in this promotion. 2nd and 3rd Prize winners must make travel reservation through the WUSBA. Travel blackout periods may affect certain travel dates. Grand Prize winners have a choice of color. There is no time limit for any of the travel prizes, gift card or any other prize in this promotion.


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  WNBA - Women  


Sun sign Moore, waive Gardin - by Eurobasket News
The Connecticut Sun signed free agent center and former UConn star Jessica Moore (6'3''-C-82, college: Connecticut) Friday evening and waived forward Kerri Gardin (6'1''-F-84, college: Virginia Tech) to make roster space.

'We've been trying to find the right situation where we have a balance of post players and wing players and it's hard with an 11-man roster,' Connecticut coach Mike Thibault said. 'We felt that for our team to improve, to have that kind of a balance, we needed to have a post player that, if we could get her, had some experience in the league, had some size and knows what winning is all about. (Moore) fit all the above descripions.''

Moore, 6-foot-3, has played six seasons with three different teams. She's played the last two with Indiana, which waived her Wednesday. She'll be in uniform tonight when the Sun play host to the Washington Mystics.

Gardin played three seasons for Connecticut.

Courtesy of www.theday.com

Candace Parker, Sparks open season with a win - by Eurobasket News
The WNBA opened its 15th season with a marquee matchup -- Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) versus Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut), the queen of the league against the new princess of high expectations.

Experience prevailed.

In Parker's first WNBA game since sustaining a season-ending shoulder injury last June, the star forward had a team-high 19 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Sparks to an 82-74 victory over the Minnesota Lynx and their No.1 overall draft pick at Staples Center in front of an announced crowd of 13,589.

The score was tied, 73-73, with 3:04 to play before the Sparks won it with a 9-1 run behind excellent defense and offensive power from Parker and forward Delisha Milton-Jones (6'1''-F-74, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Florida), who scored four of her eight points in that stretch.

'The second half we came out defensive minded,' said Sparks Coach Jennifer Gillom. 'That's something I've been trying to emphasize to my players.'

The third quarter belonged to the Sparks' Noelle Quinn. The Lynx led by as many as 10 points, but Quinn hit three three-point shots to tie the score, 57-57, with 59 seconds remaining in the quarter. Parker then made a layup to give the Sparks a 59-57 lead going into the fourth.

'Our bench is what saved us and won us the game,' Parker said.

Parker and Moore soared in the first half.

In one sequence, Parker took a rebound, drove the length of the court and lightly banked the ball in. Moore responded a few minutes later with a finger-roll, on her way to a game-high 21 points.

Parker's play was a sight to see for Sparks fans, who watched their team go 13-21 last year while she was sidelined. Before having surgery last June, the 6-foot-4 Parker had suffered multiple shoulder dislocations, having initially dislocated her left shoulder during her senior year at Tennessee.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

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


Fever enter season healthy, obsessed with winning elusive WNBA title - by Eurobasket News
The Indiana Fever's thirtysomethings might bristle when questioned about their basketball abilities but they smile and respond politely when questioned about their age.

The Fever open their 12th season tonight against the Chicago Sky with a lineup featuring four women in their 30s: Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) (31), Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) (32), Tamara Sutton-Brown (6'4''-C-78, college: Rutgers) (33) and Tangela Smith (6'4''-F/C-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Iowa) (34).

Smith is the only member of that group with a WNBA championship. She won two with the Phoenix Mercury, including a 3-2 series triumph over the Fever in 2009.

That is as close as this franchise has come. The Fever have been consistently good but never champions. They concede the window of opportunity may be closing.

'I do think there's a sense of urgency to try to win a championship now,' coach Lin Dunn said. 'Not next year. Not two years from now. But right now.'

It comes down to a familiar sports question: Which matters most -- experience or youth? Dunn said she could debate the issue and take either side.

This WNBA has shown experience counts but youth thrives.

Houston had veteran teams in winning the first four championships (1997-2000). Detroit had a new group in 2003 but was veteran-laden in '08. A young Atlanta team reached the '10 Finals but was beaten by the older Seattle Storm.

Smith, who signed with Indiana as a free agent Feb. 2, said the Fever have something more essential than experience or youth: hunger.

'That's when you win, when you're hungry,' she said.

And when you're healthy, which the Fever seemingly are.

A later start to the season allowed more rest for those playing overseas and more time together in training camp. The calendar was similar when the Fever made their run to the WNBA Finals two years ago.

Last year, Douglas said, the Fever tried to create chemistry in games rather than in practice. They were 'out of sync and out of rhythm' often, she said.

The Fever were in first place late but finished as the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference. They lost to New York 2-1 in the first round of the playoffs.

'It's a fine line,' Douglas said. 'Coulda, woulda, shoulda. There's a lot of that in professional sports. There's a lot of that in the WNBA.'

She said skeptics are 'trying to push us out the door.' The Fever stubbornly refuse to leave.

Douglas is coming off a season in Spain in which she averaged 17.9 ppg and shot 37 percent on 3-pointers.

Catchings said she feels as good before her 10th season as she did before her first.

Both are still in the prime of their careers, Dunn asserted.

Younger players such as 24-year-old point guard Briann January have pledged to win a championship for Catchings and Douglas.

Catchings, a perennial MVP candidate, said the Fever eventually will win one. When they do, she said, it will be easier to win another.

'One day I want to get married and want to have kids. Not when I'm like late 40s,' Catchings said. 'I'd like to do it sometime in the next five years or so.'

There is room on her fingers for both a wedding ring and a championship ring.

Courtesy of www.indystar.com