EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/6/2011

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Men News

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


Regatas Corrientes tab Diego Cavaco - by Eurobasket News
Diego Cavaco (200-F-79) will change team in the next season. The 31-year-old forward has agreed on terms of contract with Regatas Corrientes. Last season Diego Cavaco started in Olimpico de La Banda. He averaged 8.2 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game in Liga A. In February the forward moved to Quimsa. He tallied 7.3 points and 2.3 rebounds per game in Liga Americas. In Liga A Diego Cavaco posted 6.1 points and 2.7 rebounds per appearance with Quimsa. Previously the forward had stints with Quilmes and Libertad Sunchales. Diego Cavaco played for Argentina back in 2003. He participated at Panamerican Games that year.


Regatas Corrientes keep Ramzee Stanton - by Eurobasket News
Regatas Corrientes and Ramzee Stanton (197-F-80, agency: Dream Team Management, college: W.Chester) have agreed on terms of contract extension. The 30-year-old forward spent the last four seasons with Regatas Corrientes. Last season Ramzee Stanton averaged 14.2 points, 5.4 boards per game in Liga Americas. In Liga A his stats read 12.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.0 steal per appearance. Ramzee Stanton participated at Liga A All-Star Game. The forward also earned Latinbasket.com All-Liga Americas Honourable Mention in 2011. Previously Ramzee Stanton had stints with Quilmes and Ben Hur.


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  ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Baldwin takes over as Jordan NT - by Omar Shafaamri

AMMAN, Jordan (2011 WABA Championship / 26th FIBA Asia Championship): Thomas Tab Baldwin, erstwhile coach of the Lebanon National Team, has crossed borders geographically to take over as the coach of the Jordanian National Team for the 2011 season.

Although the complete details of Baldwins term is not known, it may be fairly anticipated that the American-New Zealander who took New Zealand to the semifinals of the 2002 FIBA World Championship will hold the reins till the 26th FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Wuhan (China) from Sept 15-25.

But before that, Baldwin has to ensure that Jordan qualify from the WABA Championship to be held in Duhok (Iraq) from June 21-25.

With Lebanon having already qualified by virtue of winning the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup in Beirut last year, and Jordan booking an additional berth for WABA by finishing fifth, four teams will qualify from the Duhok.

Lebanon, who are likely to field a development team, twice defending FIBA Asia Champions Iran, Syria and Iraq are the others in fray.

Jordan were one of the three FIBA Asia teams to qualify directly for the 2010 FIBA World Championship, by winning the bronze medal at the 25th FIBA Asia Championship at Tianjin in 2009, beating Lebanon in two crucial games on one the opening day in Group E and another on the final day in the bronze medal play-off.

Lebanon too played in the 2010 FIBA World Championship thanks to a FIBA wildcard. Baldwin was the coach of Lebanon then.

Baldwin went on to coach the Sagesse club in the 2011 Lebanese Division A League before moving to Jordan.

The Jordanian Basketball Federation, while signing Baldwin, has also invited 21 players for the initial training camp from June 7.

Ayman Idais and Zaid Al Khas have announced their international retirement, but are likely to be convinced by the JBF to join the team at least in its preparations.

21-Man Initial Roster :
Wesam Al-Sous, Malek Kheshan, Mohammad Hamdan, Ali Jamal, Mousa Awadi, Issa Kamel, Islam Abbas, Mohammad Shaher, Sam Daghles, Mahmoud Abdeen, Zaid Abbas, Hani El-Faraj, Enver Soobzokov, Jamal Ma'aita, Abduallah Aboquora, Francis Irreifij, Ayman Idais, Rasheim Wright, Saif Amer, Zaid Al Khas, Camille Gargour.

Baldwin takes over as Jordan NT - by Omar Shafaamri

AMMAN, Jordan (2011 WABA Championship / 26th FIBA Asia Championship): Thomas Tab Baldwin, erstwhile coach of the Lebanon National Team, has crossed borders geographically to take over as the coach of the Jordanian National Team for the 2011 season.

Although the complete details of Baldwins term is not known, it may be fairly anticipated that the American-New Zealander who took New Zealand to the semifinals of the 2002 FIBA World Championship will hold the reins till the 26th FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Wuhan (China) from Sept 15-25.

But before that, Baldwin has to ensure that Jordan qualify from the WABA Championship to be held in Duhok (Iraq) from June 21-25.

With Lebanon having already qualified by virtue of winning the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup in Beirut last year, and Jordan booking an additional berth for WABA by finishing fifth, four teams will qualify from the Duhok.

Lebanon, who are likely to field a development team, twice defending FIBA Asia Champions Iran, Syria and Iraq are the others in fray.

Jordan were one of the three FIBA Asia teams to qualify directly for the 2010 FIBA World Championship, by winning the bronze medal at the 25th FIBA Asia Championship at Tianjin in 2009, beating Lebanon in two crucial games on one the opening day in Group E and another on the final day in the bronze medal play-off.

Lebanon too played in the 2010 FIBA World Championship thanks to a FIBA wildcard. Baldwin was the coach of Lebanon then.

Baldwin went on to coach the Sagesse club in the 2011 Lebanese Division A League before moving to Jordan.

The Jordanian Basketball Federation, while signing Baldwin, has also invited 21 players for the initial training camp from June 7.

Ayman Idais and Zaid Al Khas have announced their international retirement, but are likely to be convinced by the JBF to join the team at least in its preparations.

21-Man Initial Roster:
Wesam Al-Sous, Malek Kheshan, Mohammad Hamdan, Ali Jamal, Mousa Awadi, Issa Kamel, Islam Abbas, Mohammad Shaher, Sam Daghles, Mahmoud Abdeen, Zaid Abbas, Hani El-Faraj, Enver Soobzokov, Jamal Ma'aita, Abduallah Aboquora, Francis Irreifij, Ayman Idais, Rasheim Wright, Saif Amer, Zaid Al Khas, Camille Gargour.

FIBA Asia


*****************************************************
  ASIAN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Courtney FIELDS
  USA
  (206-F-82)
  Avg: 24.8
 1. Fields, Al Shabab24.8 
 2. Williams, Mahram24.4 
 3. Ayer, KL Dragons22.3 
 4. Dragajlovic, Al It.21.6 
 5. Khatib, Al Riyadi21.0 
 6. Leslie, Al Rayyan19.9 
 7. Douthit, Smart Gil.19.1 
 8. Watkins, ASU18.7 
 9. Giles, Duhok18.6 
 10. Gray, Duhok18.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Vladislav DRAGAJLOVIC
  SRB
  (207-C-79)
  Avg: 13.9
 1. Dragajlovic, Al It.13.9 
 2. Giles, Duhok12.1 
 3. Douthit, Smart Gil.12.1 
 4. Ayer, KL Dragons11.8 
 5. Woods, Al Riyadi10.7 
 6. Ismail, Al Riyadi10.5 
 7. Watkins, ASU9.8 
 8. Ngombo, Al Rayyan9.7 
 9. Fields, Al Shabab8.3 
 10. Samb, Mahram7.9 
Assists Per Game
 Osama DAGHLAS
  (199-G-79)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Daghlas, ASU7.4 
 2. Casio, Smart Gilas6.1 
 3. Nikkhah, Mahram4.9 
 4. Al-Juboori, Duhok4.7 
 5. Guganeswaran, KL D.4.5 
 6. Miller, Jalaa4.3 
 7. Keely, Al Ittihad4.3 
 8. Al-Doori, Duhok4.1 
 9. Akl, Al Riyadi4.0 
 10. Hajji, Al Shabab4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Hamed AFAGH
  (190-G-83)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Afagh, Mahram2.1 
 2. Watkins, ASU1.7 
 3. Williams, Mahram1.6 
 4. Al-Doori, Duhok1.4 
 5. Gray, Duhok1.3 
 6. Al-Juboori, Duhok1.3 
 7. Fields, Al Shabab1.3 
 8. Douthit, Smart Gil.1.3 
 9. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi1.3 
 10. Giles, Duhok1.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  USA
  (218-C-78)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Woods, Al Riyadi3.8 
 2. Samb, Mahram2.9 
 3. Ayer, KL Dragons1.8 
 4. Giles, Duhok1.6 
 5. Fakhreddine, Al Ri.1.3 
 6. Douthit, Smart Gil.1.3 
 7. Walker, Jalaa1.2 
 8. Ismail, Al Riyadi1.2 
 9. Aguilar, Smart Gil.1.1 
 10. Mahdi, Duhok1.0 


Riyadi are new Asian Club Champions! - by Eurobasket News
FINAL
Al Riyadi - Mahram 91-82
Riyadi clinched Asia Club Championship title. They overcame Mahram to celebrate the first ever success at the tournament. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) came up with a pivotal performance scoring 41 points in the victory. Riyadi opened the game with a 7:3 run to grab the lead. They maintained well throughout the starting quarter and recorded a 17:14 lead after ten minutes. But Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) stepped up for Mahram in the second period. He unleashed 19 points in the quarter to give Mahram a 39:38 lead at halftime. The teams traded baskets throughout close third term. The lead changed hands for several times before Mahram sealed the outcome at 58:57. Fadi Khatib and Jean Abed El Nour (197-G/F-83) knocked down a pair of three-pointers early in the final frame to put Riyadi in front. Hamed Afagh and Cheikh Samb (215-C-84) levelled things up but Fadi Khatib ensured a 6-point advantage for the Lebanese team with just over two minutes remaining. Loren Woods made it 84:77 game with just over a minute to go. Javad Davari replied with a three-pointer to keep Mahram hopeful however two mistakes from Chris Williams (199-F/G-80, college: Virginia) and perfect free throw shooting from Fadi Khatib sealed the winning outcome for Riyadi. Jean Abed El Nour produced 21 points, while Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) added 11 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Samad Nikkhah answered with 28 points, 7 assists and 4 rebounds for Mahram. Chris Williams notched 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists in the losing effort.



3-4 place
Smart Gilas - Al Rayyan 64-71
Rayyan stepped onto the pedestal at Asia Club Championship in Manila. The Qatari champions overcame Smart Gilas tonight in the consolation final. Chauncey Leslie (183-G-81, agency: TSS Management, college: Iowa) scored 19 points to pace the winners. Rayyan opened the game on a 10:4 run to take the lead. Smart Gilas erased the deficit late in the quarter however Chauncey Leslie capped it with a treble to give the visitors a 17:15 lead. Rayyan kept Smart Gilas at bay throughout the second term. The Qatari team arrived at the interval up by 3 points 36:33. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term but Smart Gilas were unable to deny the deficit. Rayyan enjoyed a 50:46 lead with ten minutes to go in regulation. Chauncey Leslie and Michael Cuffee stretched the lead to 9 points with under two minutes to go in the game. Joseph Evans Casio (177-PG-86) and Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) dragged the hosts within 5 points but Targuy Ngombo (198-F-89, agency: Court Side) and Chauncey Leslie went perfect from the stripe to seal the victory for Rayyan. Targuy Ngombo accounted for 18 points and 12 rebounds, while Yasseen Musa (204-F-80) added 11 points and 13 rebounds in the victory. Marcus Douthit replied with 28 points and 17 rebounds for Smart Gilas. Joseph Evans Casio contributed 10 points and 7 assists in the loss.

5-6 place
Jalaa - ASU 65-72
ASU clinched the fifth position at Asia Club Championship. The Jordanian team prevailed against Jalaa of Syria to wrap up their campaign. Enver Soobzokov (198-G/F-78, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) stepped up with 19 points to pace ASU. Jalaa looked dominant in the first half. The Syrian team earned a 17:11 lead after ten minutes of action. ASU got within three points 21:18 early in the second quarter but Jalaa quickly boosted the lead. They went on an 11:0 run and eventually piled up a 38:24 halftime buffer. Jalaa maintained the margin for some time however ASU crowned the quarter with five points in a row to get as close as 5 points with one quarter to go. ASU used a 16:2 run midway through the fourth frame to pull in front 62:55. Enver Soobzokov gave ASU a 71:62 lead with just over a minute to go and the Jordanian powerhouse rolled to the victory at the end. Jameel Watkins (211-C/F-77, college: Georgetown) nailed 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, while Wesam Al-Sous (183-G-83) had 15 points in the victory. Jamaal Miller (187-G-82, agency: Court Side, college: Green River CC) replied with 16 points for Jalaa. Marcelle Yaqqub (206-C-77) provided 15 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

7-8 place
Duhok - Al Ittihad 95-104
Ittihad earned the seventh overall position at Asia Club Championship in Philippines. They overcame Duhok on the final day of the tournament. Vladislav Dragajlovic (207-C-79, agency: Beo Basket) was the key man for the Saudi Arabia team as he banked 28 points and massive 21 rebounds en route to the victory. Ittihad exploded with 29 points in the first frame to take an 8-point advantage after ten minutes. Adil Al Juhani (189-G-70) quickly boosted the margin to 16 points in the second quarter. Ittihad maintained the lead and earned a 58:41 advantage at the interval. Duhok capped the third quarter with a 19:9 rally to get within 8 points at the final break. Chudney Gray (188-G-78, agency: Promotex, college: St.John's) and Jenero Gorgiss dragged the Iraqi team as close as one point early in the final period. But Ittihad reacted with 11 points in a row to clear off once again. Duhok could not get closer than 5 points in the reminder of the contest as Ittihad wrapped up their campaign on a high note. Ali Al Maghribi (200-F-75) tallied 24 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Ittihad. Adil Al Juhani contributed 17 points in the victory. Chudney Gray answered with 30 points for Duhok. Qutaiba Al-Doori (198-F-80) had 19 points in the losing effort.



Lebanon Back on Top.. Riyadi edge Mahram and El-Khatib the best in Asia... - by Rabih Khoury
Riyadi won 3 times on Mahram this season before the final game of the Asian Cup Sunday. 2 times were during the semi finals of WABA Cup and the third time was in the 1st round of the Asian Cup last week. The 4th game between the two teams was the most important one because the winner will be crowned as the new Champion of the 22nd Asian Club Championships. Riyadi won 91-82 in a very close game that ended in the last 2 minutes for Riyadi when Fadi El-Khatib , Jean Abdel Nour and Ismaiil Ahmad step up in the 4th decisive quarter. El-Khatib showed again that he is the best player in Asia scoring 41pts out of 91 even while playing with a sore back. Also Jean Abdel El Nour went on to score 12 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter.
Ismail Ahmad had a double double scoring 11 points and 15 rebounds.
El-Khatib won the 4th Asian Cup in his career (3 with Sagesse and the 1st with Riyadi).
From Mahram Samad Nikkhad scored 28pts and Chris Williams had 21pts.

*****************************************************
  BAHRAIN   


Standings
Premier League Stage three Standings
 1. Muharraq 5-0 
 2. Al Manama 4-1 
 3. Al Ahli 2-3 
 4. Al Hala 2-3 
 5. Issa Town 2-3 
 6. Al Ittihad 0-0 
 7. Sitra 0-0 
 8. Nuwaidrat 0-5 
Stage One Standings


Muharraq too hot for Al Ahli - by Yousef Ahmed

MUHARRAQ completed the Zain Bahrain Basketball League Playoff Round on a high note after a hammering 82-62 win over defending champions Al Ahli yesterday. American import Earl Clark and rising Bahraini talent Mohammed Salem scored 19 points apiece for the victors who finished the playoff with a 100 per cent win record.

The result helped Muharraq top this six-team playoff with 10 points from five successive victories.

In their best-of-three Golden Square semi-final playoff, scheduled for Wednesday, Muharraq will again take on Al Ahli, who came fourth with seven points.

The other semi-final playoff will see second seed Manama play against third Al Hala on Thursday. Both matches will take place at Zain Basketball Arena at 6pm.

Muharraq, the only undefeated club in the playoff, were again in dominant form yesterday facing the competition's title holders.

Muharraq's coach Walter Pereira started the game with Clark and Salem playing along with Mohammed Abdulmajeed, Isa Ebrahim and Mohammed Abdulhakim.

Salem, son of former Al Qadsia Club and national team member Mohammed Salem, was in superb form with accurate handlings and shooting skills as Muharraq took a 10-point lead of 26-16 at the end of the first quarter.

There was no change in the tempo of the second quarter, during which Muharraq continued to role the show with superb teamwork and key efforts from Salem, Clark and Abdulhakim.

Trailing 25-44 at half-time, Al Ahli's Lithuanian coach Mindaugas Lukosius made some tactical changes while relying on his experienced players.

Banking

Lukosius was banking on former NBA veteran Lamond Murray (201-F-73, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: California) of the US, an ex-Muharraq professional, and national team powerhouse Hussain Shaker, who made the bulk of scoring for Al Ahli with 18 and 19 points, respectively.

However, Muharraq were still the stronger side yesterday with solid defence from Ebrahim and skipper Ahmed Al Doy who made most of the team's defensive rebounds.

Missing several of their regular players, Al Ahli's squad featured a number of young players from the junior squad, including Mahdi Ashoor, Hussain Abdulkhaleq, Hussain Mohammed and Hassan Ali.

Clark, who made less contributions earlier in the game, came back roaring in the fourth and final quarter scoring eight points to seal Muharraq's win by a 20-point margin.

Meanwhile, the Bahrain Basketball Association (BBA) has signed American Erik Rashad to a one-year contract earlier yesterday to take over the men's national basketball team.

The agreement, which took place at the association's premises in Um Al Hassam, was signed by BBA's vice-president Jassim Al Sindi and Rashad, whose contract is open for renewal upon its completion.

Rashad will be tasked to lead Bahrain in the upcoming Fiba Asia Championship for Men, which takes place in Hubei, China later this summer.

Source GDN
By RAMI HULAYYEL , Posted on Monday, June 06, 2011



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


Anemic offense costs Slam in 109-100 loss to Vancouver - by Eurobasket News
The Bellingham Slam couldn't overcome the hot shooting of Vancouver guard Andre Murray (188-G-87, college: Portland St.), as they fell to the Volcanoes, 109-100, in International Basketball League play at Clark College on Saturday.

Murray finished with 33 points, including a 10-for-11 performance from the field in the first half.

The 100 points scored was the smallest point total ever posted by the Slam in an IBL game and the fewest since a 101-83 loss to the King County Royals in an American Basketball Association contest on January 13, 2007.

Most of the first half was very competitive, with eight lead changes before Vancouver began to pull away in late in the second quarter. They led 66-59 at the half.

Things slowed down in the third quarter, as both teams combined for just 35 points. Bellingham was unable to make any headway with the deficit, and trailed 84-76 going into the final quarter.

The Slam briefly made things interesting in the fourth quarter, as they used a scoring burst to pull within four, at 93-89 with 7:37 left. But things unraveled after that, as the Volcanoes scored the next 11 points and put the game out of reach.

Despite the loss, the Slam took the season series from the Volcanoes, 3-2, with each team holding serve on their home court.

Jacob Stevenson (193-G-81, college: W.Washington) led the Slam with 28 points, while Michael Duty (198-F, college: W.Washington) finished with 17 points and eight rebounds.

Murray's 33 points paced Vancouver and led all scorers. Devin Uskoski (198-C-85, college: Rocky Mountain) also had a big night with 23 points and 16 rebounds.

The Slam stay on the road and will next face the Olympia Reign on Saturday, June 11. A 7 p.m. tip-off is set at Evergreen State College.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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


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


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


China U-19 Wins 2 of 3 in Junior Tourney - by Arthur Volbert
The China U-19 team won 2 of 3 games of an international tournament against Spain, Australia and the USA held in Guizhou Zunyi China. It will play three additional games in Guangxi Pingguo.

These games are practice for the World U-19 tournament and the strength of the opposition is difficult to determine but the games do show who is getting playing time and who is producing for the Chinese team.

China won the first game against Australia 85-60. Guo Ailun (192-G-93) scored 26 points. Li Muhao had 12 points and 2 rebounds in 26 minutes. Wang Zhelin had 10 points and 9 rebounds in 10 minutes. Gu Quan had 8 points and 5 rebounds. Sun Tonglin had 6 points and 6 rebounds. Wang Zirui had 6 points and 4 rebounds.

China lost the second game in overtime to Spain 95-94. Zhai Xiaochuan scored 22 points. Guo Ailun had 15 points, 5 assists and 4 turnovers. Ju Mingxin had 14 points and 6 rebounds in 19 minutes while Zhu Xuhang had 14 points and 4 rebounds in 31 minutes. Wang Zirui had 8 points and 2 assists in 25 minutes. Li Muhao had 6 points and 6 rebounds in 35 minutes. Wang Pu had 6 points and 5 rebounds in 12 minutes.

China defeated the USA in the third game 105-92. Zhai Xiaochuan had 22 points and 7 rebounds in 29 minutes. Wang Zhelin had 14 points and 6 rebounds in 21 minutes. Li Muhao had 9 points, 6 rebounds and 2 blocks in 12 minutes. Ju Mingxin had 11 points in 14 minutes. Guo Ailun had 13 points and 9 assists in 27 minutes. Gu Quan had 8 points and 6 rebounds in 14 minutes. Sun Tonglin had 8 points and 4 rebounds in 19 minutes.



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


Zagreb cadets win the title - by Eurobasket News
Just one day after their senior team won the Croatian league title, Zagreb cadets did the same and they outplayed the same rival - Cedevita. Zagreb celebrated 88-84 victory in the Big Final mostly thanks to Mario Hezonja (198-G-95), who was unstoppable for Cedevita players. He nailed 46 points in this meeting and of course was named MVP of the Final Four Tournament. Zagreb made plus 15 during the game, but Cedevita shined in the finish and tied the score to 83-83. Cedevita made 83-84 turn after free throw by Njegovan and there was something more than a minute left. However, Cedevita was scoreless after that, while Rebic and Hezonja shined on the other side securing their team 88-84 victory and of course the title in Croatian championship for cadets. Beside his 46 points, Mario Hezonja also grabbed 8 rebounds in this meeting. Marko Milekic (198-F-95) helped the winners with 12 points and 17 boards. In the loosing squad, Mateo Jurcevic collected 18 points and 13 rebs. Doran Jelenek stopped to 16 pts.

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


Unknown at home, Vesely looks to make mark in the NBA - by Eurobasket News
Czechoslovakia used to be a hotbed for European basketball, regularly competing for the gold medal at the Eurobasket against the almighty Soviet Union and Yugoslavia. Between the 40s and the 80s, the Czechs made the final of the tournament seven times, once finishing on top. For the last 25 years, though, basketball has been an afterthought in the area, which has since been divided into the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Only in recent years the Czechs, who finished 15th out of 16 teams the last time they qualified for the Eurobasket in 2007, have been able to produce high-quality talent again although it has frequently been developed abroad. Lacking a strong structure in mens basketball, the country's top players often leave at a young age to flourish elsewhere. That was the case with Jiri Welsch (201-F-80), the most renowned Czech player in the last decades with four years of NBA experience under his belt, and its also true for the up-and-coming Jan Vesely (211-F-90), whos almost a lock to become a lottery pick on June 23, thanks in part to the lack of star power and depth in this year's draft.

Vesely, like Weslch, took the Slovenian route and signed with Slovan Ljubljana when he was 16, only four years after he began playing basketball. It was a move that paid off for him and paved the way for a future NBA career.

'It was difficult for me to leave my family and my country when I was 16, but I told myself that if I wanted to play basketball I had to put something on the side', Vesely said in an interview with HoopsHype. It was hard sometimes, but my parents would always support me and call me on the phone or Skype. Those years that I was alone, they were also with me.

Vesely, who was voted FIBA Europe Player of the Year in 2010 ahead of the likes of Ricky Rubio and Jonas Valanciunas, comes from a family with a strong sports background. His father was a pro basketball player and coach while his mother played volleyball. In the Czech Republic, both games take a deep backseat to soccer and hockey, which is king.

Leaving the family house as a teenager was tough for Vesely, but the transition was made easier by the coaches he found along the way.

'Mirsad Alilovic, who was a coach in Slovan and is now a coach in Olimpija Ljubljana, was very important', Vesely said. 'He was the main coach that helped me in my career. I was alone in Slovenia and he was there with me. If I needed help with anything, he would come and help me. Not just with basketball stuff, but also with my personal life. He helped me a lot, but once I moved to Partizan there's also coach Dusko Vujosevic, who gave me a chance and worked hard with me. Those people were the more supportive for me during my career.'

Although Vesely calls Dirk Nowitzki his inspiration as a player, the lanky 6-foot-11 forward is more often compared to Utahs Andrei Kirilenko due to his impressive combination of athleticism, size and length. Like Kirilenko, he also lacks a consistent jump shot and a strong body frame.

He's a bad shooter and has to improve in that area, but he has all the time in the world to do that, said Nikola Loncar, a former world champion with Yugoslavia thats now doing work as an NBA analyst for Spanish TV. Hes a great leaper, but doesnt take physical contact well. He needs to put on more muscle. His body type is a lot like Toni Kukocs right now. Its good that he can run and jump so well, but he needs to be able to deal with physical play better.

Vesely is having a fairly good season with Partizan Belgrade, the dominant Serbian club he joined three years ago, with averages of 10.1 ppg and 3.6 rpg in Euroleague play. But the Czech probably didnt step up as expected for a team that lost a couple of key players in guard Bo McCalebb and center Aleks Maric last summer.

He had a chance to be a leading player for Partizan this year and he wasnt, Loncar said. The team wasnt as strong as last year and the American players took the leading role and he couldnt put himself above them in the pecking order.

While his inability to lead a squad that didnt even make it to the quarter finals of the Euroleague could raise questions about his assertiveness, there are no red flags about Veselys character or commitment to the game.

'From what I hear, hes a very cheerful kid', Loncar said. Always with a smile in his face. The people in Belgrade love him. He learned Serbian pretty fast, although its not that hard when youre Czech. Hes a true professional, very dedicated to basketball and a hard worker. Hes never been involved in any scandal during his time in Belgrade, as opposed to other players that have gotten into fights. Belgrade is a dangerous city, but hes been a model off the court.

Unlike other European players that send mixed messages on their interest in the NBA (for example Nikola Mirotic, who entered his name in the draft but also re-signed with Real Madrid till 2016), Vesely is steadfast about his desire to play in the United States as soon as next season.

'I removed my name from the draft last year, but this year I really want to play there', Vesely said. 'I want to go to the NBA this year and that's it.'

According to his agent, Aleksandar Raskovic, Vesely will not take part in workouts with NBA teams. Raskovic said his client will be in New York on June 17, though, to go through physical tests akin to the ones draft prospects had at the Chicago combine earlier this month.

Vesely deflects all questions about what he would do in the event of a lockout to his representation, but theres little question he would land a big contract with a top European club if it came down to it.

Joan Creus, the highly regarded general manager of 2010 Euroleague champion FC Barcelona, thinks Vesely is up there with the best small forwards in the continent right now.

Any big club in Europe would be interested in him, Creus said. If theres a top team in Europe that says its not interested in him Well, they dont know basketball.

Creus also believes Vesely could use another year or two in Europe to further develop his game and basketball IQ.

That would be Plan B in any case. If everything goes according to the sript, Vesely will become the third Czech player on an NBA roster next season. Too bad not many people in his country will care about it.

Courtesy of http://blogs.hoopshype.com/blogs/sierra/2011/05/30/unknown-at-home-vesely-looks-to-make-mark-in-the-nba/

NBL Round 4 of Finals: BK Prostejov tied the series over CEZ Nymburk - by Eurobasket News
BK Prostejov - CEZ Nymburk 83-72

BK Prostejov tied the series over CEZ Nymburk after another home win over the defending champions 83:72. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 83-72. Worth to mention a great performance of Lithuanian forward Andrius Slezas (200-75) who helped to win the game recording 23 points. Canadian forward Kyle Landry (206-86, college: N.Arizona) contributed with 9 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. American guard Chester Simmons (198-82, college: Washington) replied with 16 points and Serbian center Vladimir Stimac (209-87, agency: Interperformances) added 8 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for CEZ Nymburk. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
BK Prostejov: A.Slezas 23+4reb, B.Veikalas 13+3reb+3ast, D.Marek 11+1ast, J.Prasil 10+2reb, K.Landry 9+15reb, E.Lawrence 8+1reb+8ast
CEZ Nymburk: C.Simmons 16+3reb, A.Nissim 8+4reb+2ast, M.Kremen 8+1reb, V.Stimac 8+7reb+1ast, P.Benda 8+5reb, P.Pumprla 7+1reb+2ast
gschID: 129433




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.15.1 
 3. Houska, BK Decin15.1 
 4. Horak, Svitavy14.7 
 5. Hatcher, BK Decin14.5 
 6. Simmons, CEZ N.14.3 
 7. Sedmak, Basketbo.14.3 
 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. Landry, BK Prost.8.6 
 3. Houska, BK Decin8.6 
 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. Klimes, USK Praha6.7 
 10. Gadri, BK Prostej.6.7 
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. Channels, Novy Jic.2.7 
 10. Macela, Svitavy2.7 
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 


Decin part ways with Wiliam Hatcher, invite John Boyer - by Eurobasket News
Decin decided to split ways with Wiliam Hatcher (188-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Miami, OH). The 26-year-old guard will reportedly continue his career in France. Wiliam Hatcher joined Decin back in 2008/09 season. Last season his stats read 14.5 points, 3.5 assists and 2.7 rebounds per game in NBL. Wiliam Hatcher made it into Eurobasket.com All-Czech Republic League 1st Team in 2009.
Decin have already found the replacement for Wiliam Hatcher. They have agreed on terms of contract with John Boyer (185-G-88, college: Buffalo). The 23-year-old guard signed his first pro contract. John Boyer graduated from the University at Buffalo in 2010. He averaged 7.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.2 steals per game in his senior season with the Bulls. John Boyer participated at Eurobasket Summer League in Las Vegas. He played for Team Dublin.


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


Denmark U16 will meet hosts for the third place - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U16 will meet hosts for the third place at the Nordic Cup. The team won the initial game, but it was enough to face Sweden tonight in Solna. Sweden U16 that won the first three games in the group of the Nordic Cup, could not make it to the Final. Finland U16 destroyed Sweden U16 to take their spot in the Final of Nordic Cup. Three teams finished with 3-1 record on top, while Finland and Iceland advanced to the big Final.
In the most important game Denmark U16 outscored Norway U16 77:71. The winners opened the game with 21-17 and increased the lead due to 17-12 in the second period. Both squads nailed 17 points each in the third stanza, while Norway reduced the gap after 25-22 in the last period. Rasmus Hansen (203-C/F-95) was unstoppable with 32 points and 10 boards, while Aladdin Barakeh (190-F-95) followed him with 16 points. Dragisa Azanjaz (184-G-96) delivered 26 points in the losing effort.


Danish U18 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Soren Olsen
Olsen
Frederik Rungby
Rungby
Kevin Larsen
Larsen
Rasmus Larsen
Larsen
Jon Carlsen
Carlsen
#e#5
4 Kristoffer Gertz 187-G-94
5 Soren Olsen 182-G-93 SISU Denmark
6 Peter Moller 186-G-94 Vaerlose Denmark
7 Jon Carlsen 190-G/F-93 SISU Denmark
8 Andreas Bigum 203-F-93 Falcon Denmark
9 Zarko Jukic 200-F-93 Stevnsgade Denmark
10 Frederik Rungby 198-F-93 Aabyhoj Denmark
11 Alexander Birketoft 202-C-93
12 Kevin Larsen 201-F-93 High School USA
13 Mads Vahl 201-F-93
14 Rasmus Larsen 212-C-94 Vaerlose Denmark
15 Sami Elaraky



Danish U16 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
4 Karl Baare 178-PG-95
5 Martin Rasmussen 189-G-95
6 Kristoffer Arvedsen 178-PG-95
7 Mathias Kelly 180-G-95
8 Jakob Ravn 185-G/F-95
9 Frederik Benzon 184-G/F-96
10 Jacob Nielsen 195-F-95
11 Aladdin Barakeh 190-F-95
12 Rasmus Hansen 203-C/F-95
13 Simon Neihardt 192-F-95
14 Andreas Hoier 200-C-95
15 Daniel Olesen 197-F-95



Denmark U18 finished the Robin Round with 2-2 record - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U18 finished the Robin Round with 2-2 record at the Nordic Cup. It was enough however to play on Sunday in the game for the third place against Norway.
On June 3rd Sweden overcame Denmark 71:62. Sweden opened the game with 22-15 and added massive 25-14 in the second frame. Denmark looked better in the third period and won it 22-7 to reduce to the gap to 3 points before the final stanza. Sweden however won the last period 17-11 to seal the fourth win. Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) paced all the winners with 12 points and Nicholas Spires netted 11. Kevin Larsen (201-F-93) replied with 16 points and 11 rebounds in the losing effort, while Frederik Rungby (198-F-93) had 14 points and 8 boards. Both teams had 43% from the field. Denmark made more rebounds 48 versus 40, while Sweden handed out 16 assists versus 9.
On June 4th Denmark grabbed the valuable win over Norway 89:83. Denmark started well and enjoyed 30:26 after the first period. They also won the second and the third quarters, while Norway bounced back with 20-15 in the last stanza. Kevin Larsen stepped up with 13 points, while Soren Olsen (182-G-93) and Zarko Jukic followed him with 12 points apiece. Stein Otabor (187-G-93) ended up with 17 points in the losing effort.


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


Finland U18 finished last in Sweden - by Eurobasket News
Finland U18 finished last in Sweden at Nordic Cup tournament. The team managed to beat Iceland U18 96:81 for the initial success. Iceland started with 24-21 and was the favorites of the game. They also added 25-21 in the second quarter, but could not keep the score for good. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Finland erupted with 34-16 in it and never looked behind after. Moreover the Finnish side finished the game with 20-16 and celebrated the first and the last win.
On June 3rd Norway U18 secured initial victory in Solna over Finland U18 78:71. This victory allowed them to leave the last spot and finished on the fifth place. The game had two different halves and could bring the victory to any of the teams. Finland grabbed 24-12 in the first period and added 24-17 for 48:29 halftime advantage. Norway however did not give up and after 26-7 tied the game in the end of the third period. Moreover with 23-16 the Norway team won the game. Chris-Ebou Ndow (197-F/G-93) erupted with 33 points and 13 rebounds, while Lars Myhre Harto netted 18. Joonas Caven (203-C/F-93) produced 18 points in the losing case and Ilari Seppala (188-G-93) notched 15.


Finland U16 destroyed Sweden U16 to take their spot - by Eurobasket News
Finland U16 destroyed Sweden U16 to take their spot in the Final of Nordic Cup. Three teams finished with 3-1 record on top, while Finland and Iceland advanced to the big Final.
On June 3rd Finland overcame Norway 109:67. It was a tough start for the winners of the group as they took only 22-21 lead. Moreover Norway produced 20-17 in the second period and had 2-point advantage at the halftime. The second half meanwhile belonged only to the Finnish side. They erupted with 36-12 in the third quarter and reached 3-digit number due to 34-14 in the last stanza. Six players scored in double figures as Emir Sulejmanovic (203-C/F-95) led them all with 17 points. Ville Hanninen (192-G-95) posted 16, while Anton Odabasi (196-F-95) delivered 12. Dragisa Azanjaz (184-G-96) ended up with 22 points in the losing effort.


Finnish U18 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Ville Puotila
Puotila
Niko Mattila
Mattila
Joonas Caven
Caven
Tommi Huolila
Huolila
Daniel Dolenc
Dolenc
#e#5
4 Ville Puotila 180-G-93 Honka Finland
5 Kalle Naapi 187-G-93 Honka Finland
6 Niko Mattila 185-G-94 Pyrinto Finland
7 Ilari Seppala 188-G-93 Kouvot Finland
8 Sebastian Booker 188-G-93 Namika Lahti Finland
9 Kristian Rasinaho 192-F/G-93
10 Visa Tarjanne 194-F-93 Honka Finland
11 Samuli Oja 191-F-93 Namika Lahti Finland
12 Joonas Caven 203-C/F-93 Pyrinto Finland
13 Tommi Huolila 197-F-93 Salon Vilpas Finland
14 Mika Nuolivirta 205-C/F-94 ToPo Finland
15 Daniel Dolenc 204-C-93 Honka Finland



KORISLIIGA: Antero Lehto will play at least four more years - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Finnish G Antero Lehto (184-G-84) (11,4 ppg - 1,5 rpg - 1,5 apg) has re-signed with Pyrinto (Tampere). The contract is model 4+3 years, which means Lehto will play at least four more years (2011-15), possibly seven more years on Pyrinto roster. Olli Ahvenniemi (207-C-83, college: Maine) (6,2 ppg - 3,7 rpg) will also continue in Tampere. Ahvenniemi signed a 1-year-contract. Earlier The MVP of the Finals Damon Williams (201-F-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) (regular season: 18,8 ppg - 9,5 rpg, play-off-games: 15,5 ppg - 11,4 rpg) re-signed with Pyrinto for coming 2011-12 season. D.Williams will start his seventh season on Pyrinto roster. Head Coach Pieti Poikola will start his fourth season in Tampere. Poikola has led his team once to bronze and twice to Finnish Championship (2009-11).

Finnish U16 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
4 Joakim Jousisto 175-PG-95
5 Jere Valtonen 185-G-95
6 Aleksi Kemppainen 188-G-95
7 Henri Niemisto 191-G-96
8 Ville Hanninen 192-G-95 TuNMKY Finland
9 Shawn Hopkins 194-G/F-95 BC Nokia Finland
10 Miikka Mikkonen 192-F/G-95
11 Henri Ventoniemi 196-F-95
12 Erkka Lahti 201-F-95
13 Anton Odabasi 196-F-95
14 Oskar Michelsen 199-F-95 PuHu Finland
15 Emir Sulejmanovic 203-C/F-95 Ura Basket Finland



INTERNATIONAL: Coach Mika Turunen stays in Hungary - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Finnish Basketball Coach Mika Turunen (agency: SportsList Inc. ), who was named the Head Coach of Factum Sport Debrecen in February 2011, will stay in Debrecen City two more years. FS Debrecen and Turunen have re-signed the contract for seasons 2011-13. FS Debrecen saved the place in TopLeague with 2-24 record. Team had finally position 13 among 14 teams. Turunen has been coaching earlier several years in Finland and also in Luxembourg.

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


Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 DaShaun WOOD
  Dt.
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 19
 1. Wood, Dt.19.0 
 2. Rice, Art.Dragons17.2 
 3. Bell, Phoenix Hagen16.5 
 4. Harris, EnBW L.16.0 
 5. Ross, MBC15.9 
 6. Martin, Bremerha.15.4 
 7. Dorris, Phoenix15.3 
 8. Benzing, Ratio.15.1 
 9. Callahan, Bremerha.14.8 
 10. Bryant, Ratiopharm14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  Ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Bryant, Ratiopharm10.9 
 2. Ensminger, Teleko.8.1 
 3. Reiner, Bayreuth7.8 
 4. Watts, Walter T.7.6 
 5. Martin, Bremerha.7.1 
 6. Burtschi, Phoenix6.9 
 7. Anderson, Goett.6.9 
 8. Stevic, EWE B.6.8 
 9. Pleiss, Brose B.6.7 
 10. Ovcina, LTi 46ers6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Branislav RATKOVICA
  Walter T.
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Ratkovica, Walter7.4 
 2. Wood, Dt.5.9 
 3. Joyce, TBB Trier5.5 
 4. Rice, Art.Dragons5.1 
 5. Brewer, Bremerha.4.7 
 6. Green, EnBW L.4.6 
 7. Jordan, MBC4.3 
 8. Hamilton, NY Phant.4.3 
 9. Copeland, Bremerha.4.0 
 10. Goldsberry, Brose4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Kevin HAMILTON
  NY Phant.
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Hamilton, NY Phant.1.9 
 2. Everett, Bremerha.1.8 
 3. Martin, Bremerha.1.7 
 4. Pryor, Phoenix1.5 
 5. Ross, MBC1.5 
 6. Burtschi, Phoenix1.5 
 7. Bailey, Goettingen1.5 
 8. Dorris, Phoenix1.4 
 9. Bailey, Art.Dragons1.4 
 10. Wise, Telekom1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Ekene IBEKWE
  Art.Drag.
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Ibekwe, Art.Drag.2.4 
 2. Pleiss, Brose B.1.7 
 3. Bryant, Ratiopharm1.5 
 4. Ibekwe, Bayreuth1.4 
 5. Hines, Brose B.1.2 
 6. Seward, Phoenix1.1 
 7. Brempong, Duesseld.1.1 
 8. Boumtje, Art.Drag.1.0 
 9. Goree, NY Phantoms1.0 
 10. Kashirov, Walter0.9 


Brose Baskets outscored ALBA in the Final opener - by Eurobasket News
Brose Baskets - ALBA 90-76

Brose Baskets outscored ALBA in the Final opener 90:76. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Brose Baskets's pressure prevailed and they won that period 28-21 extending their advantage to 14 points. They made 25-of-33 free shots (75.8 percent) during the game. 31 personal fouls committed by ALBA Berlin helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The game was dominated by American players. Power forward Kyle Hines (198-86) fired 15 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Swingman Casey Jacobsen (198-81, college: Stanford) chipped in 14 points and 5 rebounds. Four Brose Baskets players scored in double figures. Guard Bryce Taylor (196-86, agency: Priority Sports) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points and 12 rebounds and forward Derrick Allen (203-80, college: Mississippi, agency: Pro One Sports) added 13 points respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Brose Baskets: K.Hines 15+6reb+2ast, C.Jacobsen 14+5reb+2ast, B.Roberts 14+1reb+4ast, J.Goldsberry 10+3reb+3ast, A.Gavel 10+4reb+2ast, P.Suput 9+5reb+4ast
ALBA: D.Allen 13+4reb, M.Raduljica 11+4reb, B.Taylor 10+12reb+1ast, T.Rochestie 9+1reb+2ast, T.Dragicevic 9, L.Staiger 8+1ast
gschID: 129495




Former Maryland signee Martin Bruenig chooses UW - by Eurobasket News
Luckily for Lorenzo Romar, a pipeline from Germany to Washington helped the Huskies secure one of the best available players in the class of 2011.

On Saturday, former Maryland signee Martin Breunig (6'8''-F-92) informed Romar and the rest of the Washington coaching staff that he was headed to the Pacific Northwest.

He wants to be part of a winning program and sees a lot of potential at Washington to win championships and develop as a player, Martin Esters, Breunigs mentor, told CBSSports.com. Paul Fortier was also key in his recruitment.

Interestingly, two Germans playing their college basketball at Washington in the 1980s played a part in bringing Breunig, also a Germany native, to the Huskies.

The fact that two other Germans, Chris Welp and Detlef Schrempf, who is from his hometown, had great careers there also helped, Esters said.

Welp ended his career as the schools all-time leading scorer in 1987, while Schrempf went on to a have a productive 16-year NBA career, the majority coming with the Seattle SuperSonics.

Breunig, a 6-foot-9 forward who attended St. Johns Northwestern Military Academy (Wisc.), chose the Huskies over South Florida.

'I know he will work as hard as anyone to get on the floor,' Esters said. 'The greatest thing about him is his potential. He will be a star at that level; it is just hard to say how soon.'

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

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


Third place: PAOK forces Game Five against Aris - by Eurobasket News
Third place, Game 4: Aris - PAOK 80-91 (2-2)

PAOK did a great job tonight handing 11-point defeat to Aris for 2-2 tie in the series. It means that PAOK forced decisive Game Five, which is scheduled for Wednesday.
Aris was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. PAOK made 31-of-37 free shots (83.8 percent) during the game. Aris was plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. FYR Macedonian center Todor Gechevski (209-77, agency: Interperformances) fired 20 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American guard Dionte Christmas (196-86, college: Temple) chipped in 18 points. Four PAOK players scored in double figures. Guard Kosta Charalampidis (189-76) produced 28 points (made all of his nine free throws !!!) and the former international guard Nikos Hatzivrettas (195-77) added 16 points respectively for lost side. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next game.

Top scorers:
Aris: K.Charalampidis 28+1reb+3ast, N.Hatzivrettas 16+2reb, A.King 9+8reb, C.Tapoutos 7+6reb+1ast, K.Sloukas 7+6reb+3ast, B.Brown 6+1reb
PAOK: T.Gechevski 20+5reb, D.Christmas 18+4reb+1ast, R.Marshall 14+1reb, R.Dozier 12+3reb, G.Dedas 8+2reb, Z.Buljan 6+6reb+1ast

Greens win ninth straight title! - by Eurobasket News
Finals, Game 4: Panathinaikos - Olympiakos 101-94 OT (3-1)

Nothing new in Greece as Panathinaikos won their ninth straight title. Game Four of the Playoff Finals ended just few minutes ago and PAO registered 101-94 OT win against Olympiakos. This is 13th title in the last 14 seasons for the Greens. They also celebrated in Euroleague this year, while the Greek National Cup belonged to Reds.
Olympiakos was trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 23-22 charge of Panathinaikos, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 18-11. Panathinaikos made 33-of-38 free shots (86.8 percent) during the game. Panathinaikos outrebounded Olympiakos 36-23 including a 13-2 advantage in offensive rebounds. 33 personal fouls committed by Olympiakos helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American center Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) fired a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Guard Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) chipped in a double-double by scoring 16 points, 5 rebounds and 11 assists. International center Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks and international guard Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) added 18 points and 5 assists respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Panathinaikos was No.2 in regular season with 24-2 record (both defeats against Olympiakos). They eliminated Peristeri in the Quarterfinals (2-0) and PAOK in the Semis (3-0).

Olympiakos: V.Spanoulis 18+1reb+5ast, I.Bourousis 16+10reb+1ast, L.Mavrokefalides 12+3reb+2ast, P.Vasilopoulos 11, Y.Halperin 9+2ast, M.Teodosic 8+3ast
Panathinaikos: M.Batiste 22+11reb, A.Fotsis 22+1reb, N.Calathes 16+5reb+11ast, K.Kaimakoglou 11+3reb+1ast, D.Nicholas 9+2reb+4ast, R.Sato 9+5reb

Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 Steven SMITH
  Panellinios
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 16.7
 1. Smith, Panellinios16.7 
 2. Marshall, PAOK16.4 
 3. Baxter, Ilysiakos15.9 
 4. Palacio, Kavala15.6 
 5. Kalathis, VAP K.14.3 
 6. Dikoudis, AEK14.1 
 7. Thompson, Ikaros14.1 
 8. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos13.9 
 9. Harris, Ikaros13.7 
 10. King, Peristeri GS13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cedric SIMMONS
  Kavala
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10
 1. Simmons, Kavala10.0 
 2. Thompson, Ikaros8.8 
 3. Bagaric, Marousi8.2 
 4. Kalathis, VAP K.8.1 
 5. Smith, Panellinios7.7 
 6. Papadopoulos, PAOK7.5 
 7. Tucker, Aris7.1 
 8. Looby, Peristeri GS7.0 
 9. Bourousis, Olympia.6.6 
 10. Dawson, Ilysiakos6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Jared JORDAN
  VAP K.
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Jordan, VAP K.5.5 
 2. Spanoulis, Olympia.5.2 
 3. Teodosic, Olympiak.4.7 
 4. Diamantidis, Panat.4.4 
 5. Karydas, Ilysiakos4.0 
 6. Palacio, Kavala3.8 
 7. Papaloukas, Olymp.3.8 
 8. Xanthopoulos, Pane.3.7 
 9. Gagaloudis, Marousi3.5 
 10. Kojadinovic, Maro.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Jimmy BAXTER
  Ilysiakos
  (198-G-80)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Baxter, Ilysiakos1.8 
 2. Karydas, Ilysiakos1.8 
 3. Anderson, Panionios1.7 
 4. Xanthopoulos, Pane.1.7 
 5. Marshall, PAOK1.6 
 6. Papaloukas, Olymp.1.5 
 7. Papamakarios, Pane.1.5 
 8. Palacio, Kavala1.4 
 9. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos1.4 
 10. Petrovic-S., Irak.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Dalibor BAGARIC
  Marousi
  (217-C-80)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Bagaric, Marousi1.9 
 2. Simmons, Kavala1.8 
 3. Thompson, Ikaros1.3 
 4. Looby, Peristeri GS1.1 
 5. Bourousis, Olympia.1.1 
 6. Dunston, Aris0.9 
 7. Nesterovic, Olymp.0.9 
 8. Dozier, PAOK0.8 
 9. Harissis, VAP K.0.8 
 10. Gechevski, PAOK0.6 


*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


Iceland U18 advanced to the Final of the Nordic Cup - by Eurobasket News
Iceland U18 advanced to the Final of the Nordic Cup as they finished the group with 2-2 record. In the last game Iceland U18 did not mind losing to Finland to secure the place in the final. The Finnish team managed to beat Iceland U18 96:81 for the initial success. Iceland started with 24-21 and was the favorites of the game. They also added 25-21 in the second quarter, but could not keep the score for good. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Finland erupted with 34-16 in it and never looked behind after. Moreover the Finnish side finished the game with 20-16 and celebrated the first and the last win.
On June 3rd Iceland U18 rolled over Norway U18 81:60. Trailing 11 points after the first quarter, the favorites won the rest of the quarters and sealed the necessary win. Matthias Sigurdarsson (176-G-94) paced all the winners with 25 points and Agust Orrason (191-G/F-93) scored 17. Chris-Ebou Ndow (197-F/G-93) answered with 15 points and 12 rebounds in the losing effort.


Icelandic U16 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
4 Christopher Cannon 95 Stjarnan Iceland
5 Tomas Hilmarsson 95 Stjarnan Iceland
6 Andres Kristleifsson 95
7 Brynjar Guonason 95
8 Erlendur Stefansson 95
9 Dagur Jonsson 95 Stjarnan Iceland
10 Thorgeir Blondal 95
11 Hugi Holm 95
12 Eysteinn Aevarsson 95
13 Maciej Baginski 190-G-95 Njardvik Iceland
14 Oddur Kristjansson 180-G-95 KR Iceland
15 Thorsteinn Thorarinsson 95



Icelandic U18 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Martin Hermannsson
Hermannsson
Agust Orrason
Orrason
Thorsteinn Ragnarsson
Ragnarsson
Snorri Hrafnkelsson
Hrafnkelsson
Emil Einarsson
Einarsson
#e#5
Agust Orrason 191-G/F-93 Breidablik Iceland
Thorsteinn Ragnarsson 187-G-93 Thor Thorl Iceland
Stefan Torfason 195-F-93 Thor AK Iceland
Snorri Hrafnkelsson 199-C-93 Breidablik Iceland
Sigurdur Sturluson 184-G-93 Njardvik Iceland
Oddur Petursson 191-G-93 Njardvik Iceland
Matthias Sigurdarsson 176-G-94 KR Iceland
Martin Hermannsson 180-G-94 KR Iceland
Kristofer Acox 195-G-93 High School USA
Jens Oskarsson 198-F-93 Grindavik Iceland
Emil Einarsson 197-F-94 Thor Thorl Iceland
Valur Valsson 181-G-94 FSU Iceland



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


Riyadi dethrone Mahram in Manila - by Eurobasket News
Riyadi - Mahram 91:82

Riyadi clinched Asia Club Championship title. They overcame Mahram to celebrate the first ever success at the tournament. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) came up with a pivotal performance scoring 41 points in the victory.
Riyadi opened the game with a 7:3 run to grab the lead. They maintained well throughout the starting quarter and recorded a 17:14 lead after ten minutes. But Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) stepped up for Mahram in the second period. He unleashed 19 points in the quarter to give Mahram a 39:38 lead at halftime. The teams traded baskets throughout close third term. The lead changed hands for several times before Mahram sealed the outcome at 58:57. Fadi Khatib and Jean Abed El Nour (197-G/F-83) knocked down a pair of three-pointers early in the final frame to put Riyadi in front. Hamed Afagh and Cheikh Samb levelled things up but Fadi Khatib ensured a 6-point advantage for the Lebanese team with just over two minutes remaining. Loren Woods made it 84:77 game with just over a minute to go. Javad Davari replied with a three-pointer to keep Mahram hopeful however two mistakes from Chris Williams (199-F/G-80, college: Virginia) and perfect free throw shooting from Fadi Khatib sealed the winning outcome for Riyadi. Jean Abed El Nour produced 21 points, while Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) added 11 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Samad Nikkhah answered with 28 points, 7 assists and 4 rebounds for Mahram. Chris Williams notched 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists in the losing effort.

Riyadi: Fadi Khatib 41, Jean Abed El Nour 21, Ahmad Ismail 11+15 boards
Mahram: Samad Nikkhah 28, Chris Williams 21


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


Vladislav Dragajlovic leads Ittihad to seventh-place finish in Manila - by Eurobasket News
Ittihad - Duhok 104:95

Ittihad earned the seventh overall position at Asia Club Championship in Philippines. They overcame Duhok on the final day of the tournament. Vladislav Dragajlovic (207-C-79, agency: Beo Basket) was the key man for the Saudi Arabia team as he banked 28 points and massive 21 rebounds en route to the victory.
Ittihad exploded with 29 points in the first frame to take an 8-point advantage after ten minutes. Adil Al Juhani (189-G-70) quickly boosted the margin to 16 points in the second quarter. Ittihad maintained the lead and earned a 58:41 advantage at the interval. Duhok capped the third quarter with a 19:9 rally to get within 8 points at the final break. Chudney Gray (188-G-78, agency: Promotex, college: St.John's) and Jenero Gorgiss dragged the Iraqi team as close as one point early in the final period. But Ittihad reacted with 11 points in a row to clear off once again. Duhok could not get closer than 5 points in the reminder of the contest as Ittihad wrapped up their campaign on a high note.
Ali Al Maghribi (200-F-75) tallied 24 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Ittihad. Adil Al Juhani contributed 17 points in the victory. Chudney Gray answered with 30 points for Duhok. Qutaiba Al-Doori (198-F-80) had 19 points in the losing effort.

Ittihad: Vladislav Dragajlovic 28+21 boards, Ali Al Maghribi 24, Adil Al Juhani 17
Duhok: Chudney Gray 30, Qutaiba Al-Doori 19


*****************************************************
  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. Goss, Cimberio VA3.8 
 6. Rowland, Vanoli CR3.8 
 7. Zoroski, Banca T.3.8 
 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. Goss, Cimberio VA2.7 
 4. Green, Air AV2.7 
 5. Troutman, Air AV2.7 
 6. Thomas, Air AV2.5 
 7. Dasic, Lottomatica2.4 
 8. McCalebb, Montepa.2.4 
 9. Hackett, Scavolin.2.4 
 10. Collins, Scavolin.2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Ford, Fabi Shoes2.3 
 2. Eze, Armani MI1.3 
 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 


Stats Leaders - Lega2
Points Per Game
 Trent WHITING
  Aget Imola
  (185-G-76)
  Avg: 22.4
 1. Whiting, Aget Imola22.4 
 2. Robinson, Trenkwal.19.7 
 3. Crispin, Barcellona19.6 
 4. Gordon, Forli19.5 
 5. Ebi, Aget Imola19.2 
 6. Goldwire, Forli19.1 
 7. Jackson, Prima Ver.19.0 
 8. Clark, Umana Reyer18.0 
 9. Forte, Tuscany PT17.9 
 10. Marigney, Assigeco17.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ndudi EBI
  Aget Imola
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Ebi, Aget Imola9.2 
 2. Filloy, Immobili.9.1 
 3. Varnado, Tuscany8.9 
 4. Boykin, Assigeco8.1 
 5. Dickens, San Seve.8.0 
 6. Waleskowski, Tezen.7.9 
 7. Johnson, San Seve.7.8 
 8. Gordon, Forli7.8 
 9. Lollis, Immobili.7.6 
 10. Maggioli, Fileni7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Antonio PORTA
  Tezenis .
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Porta, Tezenis5.1 
 2. Crispin, Barcellona4.8 
 3. Goldwire, Forli4.5 
 4. Hickman, Fastw.4.1 
 5. Clark, Umana Reyer3.8 
 6. Marigney, Assigeco3.8 
 7. Whiting, Aget Imola3.8 
 8. Farabello, N.Fer.3.7 
 9. Mathis, Snaidero.3.7 
 10. Nardi, Forli3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Alessandro PIAZZA
  Immobili.
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 3
 1. Piazza, Immobili.3.0 
 2. Ebi, Aget Imola2.9 
 3. Roderick, Immobi.2.6 
 4. Davis, Sunrise2.6 
 5. Robinson, Trenkwal.2.6 
 6. Filloy, Immobili.2.5 
 7. Whiting, Aget Imola2.4 
 8. Cerella, Assigeco2.4 
 9. Ghiacci, Barcellona2.3 
 10. Achara, Barcellona2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Jarvis VARNADO
  Tuscany PT
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Varnado, Tuscany3.1 
 2. Ebi, Aget Imola1.4 
 3. Achara, Barcellona1.2 
 4. Maggioli, Fileni B.1.1 
 5. Cutolo, San Severo0.7 
 6. Frosini, Trenkwald.0.7 
 7. Boykin, Assigeco0.7 
 8. Di Giuliomar., Uma.0.6 
 9. Bryan, Umana Reyer0.6 
 10. Slay, Umana Reyer0.6 


SerieA Round 4 of Semi-Finals. Bennet Cantu join Siena in the Finals - by Eurobasket News
Armani MI - Bennet Cantu 62-74

Bennet Cantu stole the road win over Armani Jeans and advanced into Seria A Finals. The game without a history. Bennet Cantu led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. 24 personal fouls committed by Armani Milano helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of Serbian forward Vladimir Micov (203-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds and American forward Maarten Leunen (206-85, college: Oregon) who added 11 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Five Bennet Cantu players scored in double figures. At the losing side American-Bulgarian guard Ibrahim Jaaber (187-84, college: Pennsylvania) responded with 17 points and 5 steals and international forward Stefano Mancinelli (203-83) scored 11 points and 4 steals.
Top scorers:
Armani MI: I.Jaaber 17+3reb+2ast, M.Rocca 11+3reb, S.Mancinelli 11+2reb+2ast, C.Karl 7+1reb, L.Greer 7+3reb+1ast, B.Eze 4+6reb+1ast
Bennet Cantu: M.Green 17+3reb+1ast, V.Micov 12+10reb+3ast, M.Leunen 11+9reb+3ast, N.Mazzarino 11+3reb+2ast, M.Markoishvili 10+4reb, J.Tabu 6
gschID: 129641




Lega2 Round 4 of Semi-Finals. Prima Veroli force decider against Umana Reyer - by Eurobasket News
Prima Veroli - Umana Reyer 59-55

Prima Veroli held off Umana Reyer at home court and avoided elimination. The teams will move back to Venice for the fifth decisive game of the series. Umana Venezia was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward David Brkic (210-82, agency: Interperformances) who helped to win the game recording 15 points. The former international power forward Ivan Gatto (207-78) contributed with 11 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American-Bulgarian guard Kiki Clark (173-84, college: St.Peter's) replied with 12 points and 6 rebounds and naturalized French center Sylvere Bryan (208-81, college: Tampa, agency: Interperformances) added 6 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Umana Venezia. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Prima Veroli: D.Brkic 15+2reb, J.Jackson 14+1reb+1ast, I.Gatto 11+5reb+1ast, J.Penn 7+4reb+3ast, A.Kavaliauskas 5+3reb, R.Rullo 4+3reb
Umana Reyer: K.Clark 12+6reb, M.Allegretti 10+3reb, A.Young 7+2reb+3ast, S.Bryan 6+7reb, G.Meini 6+2reb+1ast, C.Di Giuliomaria 6+4reb
gschID: 129504




*****************************************************
  JORDAN   


ASU hold off Jalaa to earn fifth place in Manila - by Eurobasket News
ASU - Jalaa 72:65

ASU clinched the fifth position at Asia Club Championship. The Jordanian team prevailed against Jalaa of Syria to wrap up their campaign. Enver Soobzokov (198-G/F-78, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) stepped up with 19 points to pace ASU.
Jalaa looked dominant in the first half. The Syrian team earned a 17:11 lead after ten minutes of action. ASU got within three points 21:18 early in the second quarter but Jalaa quickly boosted the lead. They went on an 11:0 run and eventually piled up a 38:24 halftime buffer. Jalaa maintained the margin for some time however ASU crowned the quarter with five points in a row to get as close as 5 points with one quarter to go. ASU used a 16:2 run midway through the fourth frame to pull in front 62:55. Enver Soobzokov gave ASU a 71:62 lead with just over a minute to go and the Jordanian powerhouse rolled to the victory at the end. Jameel Watkins (211-C/F-77, college: Georgetown) nailed 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, while Wesam Al-Sous (183-G-83) had 15 points in the victory. Jamaal Miller (187-G-82, agency: Court Side, college: Green River CC) replied with 16 points for Jalaa. Marcelle Yaqqub (206-C-77) provided 15 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

ASU: Enver Soobzokov 19, Jameel Watkins 16, Wesam Al-Sous 15
Jalaa: Jamaal Miller 16, Marcelle Yaqqub 15+10 boards


Baldwin takes over as Jordan NT - by Omar Shafaamri

AMMAN, Jordan (2011 WABA Championship / 26th FIBA Asia Championship): Thomas Tab Baldwin, erstwhile coach of the Lebanon National Team, has crossed borders geographically to take over as the coach of the Jordanian National Team for the 2011 season.

Although the complete details of Baldwins term is not known, it may be fairly anticipated that the American-New Zealander who took New Zealand to the semifinals of the 2002 FIBA World Championship will hold the reins till the 26th FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Wuhan (China) from Sept 15-25.

But before that, Baldwin has to ensure that Jordan qualify from the WABA Championship to be held in Duhok (Iraq) from June 21-25.

With Lebanon having already qualified by virtue of winning the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup in Beirut last year, and Jordan booking an additional berth for WABA by finishing fifth, four teams will qualify from the Duhok.

Lebanon, who are likely to field a development team, twice defending FIBA Asia Champions Iran, Syria and Iraq are the others in fray.

Jordan were one of the three FIBA Asia teams to qualify directly for the 2010 FIBA World Championship, by winning the bronze medal at the 25th FIBA Asia Championship at Tianjin in 2009, beating Lebanon in two crucial games on one the opening day in Group E and another on the final day in the bronze medal play-off.

Lebanon too played in the 2010 FIBA World Championship thanks to a FIBA wildcard. Baldwin was the coach of Lebanon then.

Baldwin went on to coach the Sagesse club in the 2011 Lebanese Division A League before moving to Jordan.

The Jordanian Basketball Federation, while signing Baldwin, has also invited 21 players for the initial training camp from June 7.

Ayman Idais and Zaid Al Khas have announced their international retirement, but are likely to be convinced by the JBF to join the team at least in its preparations.

21-Man Initial Roster:
Wesam Al-Sous, Malek Kheshan, Mohammad Hamdan, Ali Jamal, Mousa Awadi, Issa Kamel, Islam Abbas, Mohammad Shaher, Sam Daghles, Mahmoud Abdeen, Zaid Abbas, Hani El-Faraj, Enver Soobzokov, Jamal Ma'aita, Abduallah Aboquora, Francis Irreifij, Ayman Idais, Rasheim Wright, Saif Amer, Zaid Al Khas, Camille Gargour.

FIBA Asia


Baldwin takes over as Jordan NT - by Omar Shafaamri

AMMAN, Jordan (2011 WABA Championship / 26th FIBA Asia Championship): Thomas Tab Baldwin, erstwhile coach of the Lebanon National Team, has crossed borders geographically to take over as the coach of the Jordanian National Team for the 2011 season.

Although the complete details of Baldwins term is not known, it may be fairly anticipated that the American-New Zealander who took New Zealand to the semifinals of the 2002 FIBA World Championship will hold the reins till the 26th FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Wuhan (China) from Sept 15-25.

But before that, Baldwin has to ensure that Jordan qualify from the WABA Championship to be held in Duhok (Iraq) from June 21-25.

With Lebanon having already qualified by virtue of winning the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup in Beirut last year, and Jordan booking an additional berth for WABA by finishing fifth, four teams will qualify from the Duhok.

Lebanon, who are likely to field a development team, twice defending FIBA Asia Champions Iran, Syria and Iraq are the others in fray.

Jordan were one of the three FIBA Asia teams to qualify directly for the 2010 FIBA World Championship, by winning the bronze medal at the 25th FIBA Asia Championship at Tianjin in 2009, beating Lebanon in two crucial games on one the opening day in Group E and another on the final day in the bronze medal play-off.

Lebanon too played in the 2010 FIBA World Championship thanks to a FIBA wildcard. Baldwin was the coach of Lebanon then.

Baldwin went on to coach the Sagesse club in the 2011 Lebanese Division A League before moving to Jordan.

The Jordanian Basketball Federation, while signing Baldwin, has also invited 21 players for the initial training camp from June 7.

Ayman Idais and Zaid Al Khas have announced their international retirement, but are likely to be convinced by the JBF to join the team at least in its preparations.

21-Man Initial Roster :
Wesam Al-Sous, Malek Kheshan, Mohammad Hamdan, Ali Jamal, Mousa Awadi, Issa Kamel, Islam Abbas, Mohammad Shaher, Sam Daghles, Mahmoud Abdeen, Zaid Abbas, Hani El-Faraj, Enver Soobzokov, Jamal Ma'aita, Abduallah Aboquora, Francis Irreifij, Ayman Idais, Rasheim Wright, Saif Amer, Zaid Al Khas, Camille Gargour.

*****************************************************
  LEBANON   


Lebanon & Iran rivalry like never before - by John Khoury
There cant be two other clubs in FIBA Asia who are more familiar with each other than Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut and Mahram Tehran.
But the familiarity has only added to mutual respect the entire machinery of each team has for the other.
These clubs faced each other 8 times, with mahram winning 5 of it.
on the 20th of march 2009 they met in WABA Champions Cup when mahram won 69-56.
on the 14th of May 2009, and during the first round of FIBA Asia Champions Cup Mahram Tehran won 87-61.
5 days later, Mahram Tehran knocked out Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut in the Semi finals 109-80.
A year later, and on the 8th of April 2010 Mahram Tehran won the WABA Champions Cup by beating riyadi 94-88.
Two months later, and on the 29th of May 2010, same as the last version, Mahram Tehran knocked out Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut in the semi finals of FIBA Asia Champions Cup with the score 71-64.
Remember well that date, because that was the last time Mahram Tehran beating Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut, to end its 5-0 career winning.
On the 1st and 8th of March the two giants met again in a best of three series to qualify to the WABA League's finals, where Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut managed to sweep Mahram Tehran 2-0 with the score of 94-90 and 83-73.
The last time these clubs met, was a week ago, in the groups stage of FIBA Asia Champions Cup 2011, when Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut proved total control of the game starting the first whistle .
The game ended with a minimal defecite of 3 points 76-73. Which Gave Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut its third straight win Over Mahram Tehran.
Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut's Leader Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) , managed to score 25 points while Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) scored 14 along with 15 boards , while Mahram Tehran's Scoring machine Chris Williams (199-F/G-80, college: Virginia) scored 32 points with 6 boards .

All these facts proves that Tonight's game, is nothing less than ' THE CLASH OF THE TITANS ' .
Only Half an hour seperate one of these two clubs to hold the trophy in MANILA, PHILIPPINES .
Will it be Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut's First time or Mahram Tehran's third straight time ?

Best of luck for our Lebanese Team.


Will Fadi el khatib Be wearing the yellow jersey Next season ? - by John Khoury
We heard a lot, some rumors about Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) joining Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut for next season, especially after winning the Asia championship with them.
Fadi still have 2 more years to play with Champville, and according to Coach ghassan Sarkis, Fadi will be champvilles captain for nothing less than the next two years.
A Flash back into the past, and precisely into the 25th of January 2009, President Hisham al jaroudi guest of DUNK program on NEW TV ( Lebanese channel ) said what nobody expected : Fadi el khatib is lethal disease , a Cancer, that we should remove from the team .

2 years later, and on the 12th of January 2011, President Jaroudi in a press conference after the massacre that took place in Manara court said the following: They [the federation] have taken decisions and they might not back down but what Im saying is that Champville is a victim [but] Im calling for stopping Ghassan and Khatib from playing; have the law be applied to both of them.

Back to the present, Today Riyadi clinched the ASIA CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY, after beating Mahram 91-82 .
Fadi Khatib scored 41 of his teams 91 points ( knowing that Fadi el khatib joined Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut on a Loan from champville ).

Many questions are to be asked after this win:
Does President Hisham el Jaroudi Regret all these attacks on Captain Fadi el khatib ?
Will Fadi el khatib Consider joining Riyadi next season ?



The Gold is back to where it Belongs ! - by John Khoury
Standing right beside our lebanese heros , seeing the tears of joy, hearing the laughs of pride.
10 452 Squar meters might be the smallest country in the world's largest and most populous continent, proved again to have the biggest heart.
Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut and for the first time in its history , stood in the middle of Rayyan and Mahram , wearing the gold, holding high the trophy that they always worked for.
The fourth lebanese asian trophy , is back to beirut... after A very well deserved win after 7 straight wins.

Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) showed an amazing performance all along this championship, but proved once again in his last 40 mins, that he is the best asian player.
Fadi scored 41 of his team's 91 points , with 19/22 Free thorws and 6/9 3pts .To earn what no other ASIAN player have reached, his 4th ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIP Award.

Congratulations to each and every lebanese basketball fan , congratulations to the Cedars.



Riyadi dethrone Mahram in Manila - by Eurobasket News
Riyadi - Mahram 91:82

Riyadi clinched Asia Club Championship title. They overcame Mahram to celebrate the first ever success at the tournament. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) came up with a pivotal performance scoring 41 points in the victory.
Riyadi opened the game with a 7:3 run to grab the lead. They maintained well throughout the starting quarter and recorded a 17:14 lead after ten minutes. But Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) stepped up for Mahram in the second period. He unleashed 19 points in the quarter to give Mahram a 39:38 lead at halftime. The teams traded baskets throughout close third term. The lead changed hands for several times before Mahram sealed the outcome at 58:57. Fadi Khatib and Jean Abed El Nour (197-G/F-83) knocked down a pair of three-pointers early in the final frame to put Riyadi in front. Hamed Afagh and Cheikh Samb levelled things up but Fadi Khatib ensured a 6-point advantage for the Lebanese team with just over two minutes remaining. Loren Woods made it 84:77 game with just over a minute to go. Javad Davari replied with a three-pointer to keep Mahram hopeful however two mistakes from Chris Williams (199-F/G-80, college: Virginia) and perfect free throw shooting from Fadi Khatib sealed the winning outcome for Riyadi. Jean Abed El Nour produced 21 points, while Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) added 11 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Samad Nikkhah answered with 28 points, 7 assists and 4 rebounds for Mahram. Chris Williams notched 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists in the losing effort.

Riyadi: Fadi Khatib 41, Jean Abed El Nour 21, Ahmad Ismail 11+15 boards
Mahram: Samad Nikkhah 28, Chris Williams 21


Lebanon Back on Top.. Riyadi edge Mahram and El-Khatib the best in Asia... - by Rabih Khoury
Riyadi won 3 times on Mahram this season before the final game of the Asian Cup Sunday. 2 times were during the semi finals of WABA Cup and the third time was in the 1st round of the Asian Cup last week. The 4th game between the two teams was the most important one because the winner will be crowned as the new Champion of the 22nd Asian Club Championships. Riyadi won 91-82 in a very close game that ended in the last 2 minutes for Riyadi when Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) , Jean Abdel Nour and Ismaiil Ahmad step up in the 4th decisive quarter. El-Khatib showed again that he is the best player in Asia scoring 41pts out of 91 even while playing with a sore back. Also Jean Abdel El Nour went on to score 12 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter.
Ismail Ahmad had a double double scoring 11 points and 15 rebounds.
El-Khatib won the 4th Asian Cup in his career (3 with Sagesse and the 1st with Riyadi).
From Mahram Samad Nikkhad scored 28pts and Chris Williams had 21pts.

The one and only TIGER.... Fadi El-Khatib. - by Rabih Khoury
Well I don't know from where to start to describe such player... maybe the legend Michael Jordan can describe him better when he quoted in the New York Times, ' Fadi El Khatib believes Lebanon's premiere player should be in the league.'Today he went on top of Asia and became 4 times Asian Cup Winner... Lead Lebanon 3 times to the World Cup and shined in each and every WC. Everyone fears him and the opponents always make special defense to stop him. Loaned From Champville to Riyadi, Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) had 41pts today out of 91 and lead Riyadi to their first historical Asian Cup. Lately he said that he will not play this Summer for the NT in the Asian Championships that qualify to the Olympic games next year. But in the name of each and every Lebanese Basketball fan, I say to Fadi that the NT needs you, Lebanon needs you and we can not make it to the Olympics without you.. Please Consider your choice again and think about all these fans that need to enjoy winning Asian Cup Championship for the first time in Lebanon history... With you and the other Lebanese heroes nothing is impossible.... THE CEDARS ARE COMING THIS SUMMER.... THE TIGER WILL HIT HARD :)

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


Lithuanian U19 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Dovydas Redikas
Redikas
Egidijus Mockevicius
Mockevicius
Deivydas Anuzis
Anuzis
Paulius Sorokas
Sorokas
Zygimantas Skucas
Skucas
#e#5
Dovydas Redikas 193-G-92 Perlas Lithuania
Egidijus Mockevicius 204-C-92 Akademija Lithuania
Rokas Giedraitis 195-G-92 Siauliu S-A Lithuania
Deivydas Anuzis 182-G-92 Nafta Universitetas Lithuania
Paulius Sorokas 198-G/F-92 Zalgiris-Sabonio Lithuania
Zygimantas Skucas 200-F-92 Zalgiris-Sabonio Lithuania
Renaldas Simanavicius 184-G-92 Aiscai Kaunas Lithuania
Arnas Butkevicius 199-F-92 Sakalai Lithuania
Paulius Vaitiekunas 208-C-87 Triobet Malsta Lithuania
Tautvydas Sabonis 200-F-92 Clinicas Rincon Spain
Edgaras Ulanovas 198-F-92 Zalgiris-Sabonio Lithuania
Rolandas Jakstas 198-F-92 Aiscai Kaunas Lithuania



Lithuania U19 prevail against MKL All-Stars - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U19 - MKL All-Stars 96:76

Lithuanian U19 selection is getting ready for the upcoming U19 World Championship. They lately played a test game against MKL All-Stars. Lithuania celebrated a 96:76 victory. Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) stepped up with 16 points to pace the charge.
Lithuania got to a strong start. They erupted for 30 points in the opening frame to earn a 16-point lead. Lithuanian selection boosted the gap to 22 points at halftime 53:31. MKL All-Stars conceded 27 points in the third frame to face a 23-point deficit before the final quarter. They cut the distance to 20 points but it was all they could do before surrendering at the end. Egidijus Mockevicius (204-C-92) and Rokas Giedraitis (195-G-92) produced 13 points each for the winners. Deivydas Anuzis (182-G-92) had 11 points for Lithuania. MKL All-Stars answered with 14 points from Arturas Gudaitis (208-C-93). Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) fired 13 points in the loss.

Lithuania U19: Dovydas Redikas 16, Egidijus Mockevicius 13, Rokas Giedraitis 13
MKL All-Stars: Arturas Gudaitis 14, Marius Grigonis 13


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


Scoring Leaders - DBBL
Points Per Game
 Lamonte ULMER
  Soleuvre
  (198-F-86)
  Avg: 26.5
 1. Ulmer, Soleuvre26.5 
 2. Kennedy, Residence25.6 
 3. McDaniel, Black S.23.0 
 4. Hargrove, Sparta22.5 
 5. Schumacher, T7122.2 
 6. Reimold, Basket E.20.9 
 7. Muller, T7120.1 
 8. Delgado, Etzella19.5 
 9. Gary, Contern19.1 
 10. Scott, Etzella18.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Lamonte ULMER
  Soleuvre
  (198-F-86)
  Avg: 15.5
 1. Ulmer, Soleuvre15.5 
 2. McDaniel, Black S.15.3 
 3. Gary, Contern13.2 
 4. Stephens, T7112.4 
 5. Hargrove, Sparta12.1 
 6. Kennedy, Residence11.8 
 7. Wurtz, Musel Pikes11.7 
 8. Scott, Etzella11.0 
 9. Wojnowski, Musel P.9.8 
 10. Abercrombie, Spa.9.6 
Assists Per Game
 Christian SCHARTZ
  Amicale
  (180-G-86)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Schartz, Amicale5.3 
 2. Schumacher, T714.0 
 3. Rausch, Black Star3.7 
 4. Delgado, Etzella3.5 
 5. Reimold, Basket E.3.3 
 6. Koster, Residence2.9 
 7. Schwartz, Musel P.2.9 
 8. Arbaut, Sparta2.8 
 9. McDaniel, Black S.2.7 
 10. Giver, Etzella2.6 
Steals Per Game
 Christopher JONES
  Amicale
  (186-G-90)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Jones, Amicale2.3 
 2. Kalmes, Contern1.9 
 3. Gary, Contern1.8 
 4. Kennedy, Residence1.7 
 5. Schartz, Amicale1.6 
 6. McDaniel, Black S.1.5 
 7. Birdsong, Amicale1.4 
 8. Smith, Sparta1.4 
 9. Delgado, Etzella1.4 
 10. Stephens, T711.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Brandon GARY
  Contern
  (202-F-83)
  Avg: 2
 1. Gary, Contern2.0 
 2. McDaniel, Black S.1.9 
 3. Birdsong, Amicale1.8 
 4. Hoffmann, Etzella1.1 
 5. Stephens, T711.0 
 6. Ulmer, Soleuvre1.0 
 7. Abercrombie, Spa.0.9 
 8. Scott, Etzella0.8 
 9. Wurtz, Musel Pikes0.7 
 10. Jones, Amicale0.6 


Diekirch League Round 1 of Finals. T71 cruise past Etzella on the road - by Eurobasket News
Etzella - T71 62-85

T71 Didelange made the huge step towards earning the title as they thumped Etzella on the road in the best-of-three series opener. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 85-62. T71 dominated on the defensive end, holding Etzella to just 6 points in third quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Etzella's 36. T71 forced 19 Etzella turnovers. American swingman Denell Stephens (193-86, college: Slippery Rock, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 16 rebounds (on 13-of-16 shooting from the field) for the winners and the former international power forward Frank Muller (194-88, college: Cuesta JC) chipped in 20 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side American center Karim Shabazz (218-78, college: Providence) responded with 9 points and 11 rebounds and the former international swingman Nelson Delgado (186-80) scored 14 points. 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:
Etzella: N.Delgado 14+3reb+3ast, T.Giver 14+1reb+1ast, K.Shabazz 9+11reb, G.Polfer 9+3reb, J.Delgado 8+3reb+1ast, P.Hoffmann 6+8reb+1ast
T71: D.Stephens 29+16reb+1ast, F.Muller 20+6reb, T.Schumacher 12+4reb+5ast, B.Kieffer 9+1reb, G.Ruffato 6+8reb+2ast, G.Klein 6+2reb+1ast
gschID: 128849




*****************************************************
  MOLDOVA   


Moldova 2011. Final. Game 3. - by Huge
BCUASM Chisinau - Dondiusheni. Game 3. June 4. 89-74.

What do you do when you are loosing in the final 0-2, when the final is played till 3 wins? How do you play when DE-facto the team you are playing against is stronger then your
team? The only answer you get all your players to play as this is their last game ever. This is what Dondisheni did. First, all their players recovered and this was the most complete team Dondisheni could've get. And second there is nothing else to loose: you either win this game and stay in the final or you loose and this is over. To be or not to be - this is the question.

It was the most difficult season game for BCUASM Chisinau. Even thought they were leading all game long, the handicap was an average not more then 5-6 points, which would always cause Alexandr Sestopal to ask for time-out. Very balanced game in which all leaders scored and played crucial role for their teams. In the middle of third quarter of the game Dondiusheni got on fire with 3-pointers which allowed them to equalize (59-59) the score for the second time in the game, after 0-0 in the very beginning. But probably it took a lot of strength and fouls, which caused Dondisheni head coach to make some substitutions on the field, including letting Andrus rest. All of this lead to 10 points difference by the end of 3rd quarter. 70-60.

Andrus and Co tried to repeat their success in the last quarter and use 3-pointers to take the advantage, but snipers wouldn't put the ball into the basket as it was requested by the coach, which did not minimize the difference in the score. And as the old saying says: if you do not score your opponent will score himself. The time was running and the score difference was growing and growing. 3 minutes before the end it was clear BCUASM Chisinau will become double champion this year: Cup and Championship title winners. Time ended at 89-74.

Right after the game inauguration ceremony started.

Best forward of the season was voted Vladimir Kolesnikov (202-F/C-80) from BC FireBall, Bender.

Best defensive played award is given to Eugeniu Melnic (196-F/G-79), BC UASM, Chisinau

Best center - Ivan Cropotov (208-F-88, college: SW Baptist) (208-F-88, college: SW Baptist), BC UASM, Chisinau

All season MVP went to ... Alexei Andrus, BC Dondiusheni, Dondiusheni



Third place and bronze medals in 2010-2011 season was awarded to BC FireBall, Bender

Silver medalist of 2010-2011 season - BC Dondiusheni, Dondiusheni

Gold medalist of 2010-2011 season - BC UASM, Chisinau



Season is over.

Let the new season begin.

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


James, Heat looking to 'attack mode' in Game 3 - by Eurobasket News
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) says he will be in attack mode tonight, as well as the rest of the Miami Heat when they face the Dallas Mavericks in Game 3.

The Heat believe they have relied on too many 3-pointers, and havent attacked the rim enough throughout the series. In Game 1, Miami had 24 shots from 3-point range and 26 free throw attempts. In Game 2, it had 30 3-point attempts and 24 free throws.

You know, six free throws in two games is unacceptable, James said of his combined free throw attempts. We have to be in attack mode. We cant shoot more 3s than we do free throws. Were not a good team when we do that.

The Heat made the 3-ball in Game 1, though, knocking down 11 of 24. In Game 2, they went just nine of 30.

We know what our game is, Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said at Sunday's shootaround at the American Airlines Center. We know we have to be aggressive. We know we have to put pressure on them at the rim, in the paint and at the free throw line. The 3-point ball is a weapon for us. We have the ability, and have proven in big moments, that we can hit the timely one. But we know that weve got to win with our game.

In the regular season, the Heat got the line almost 28 times a game. James averaged 8.4 free throw attempts, while Dwyane Wade averaged 8.6 and Chris Bosh 6.1.

We obviously want to put pressure on the rim, Wade said. Thats when were at our best.

Courtesy of http://sportsblogs.star-telegram.com

NBA Draft notebook: Burks, Brooks miss Bobcats workout with injuries - by Eurobasket News
A loaded day of workouts with the Bobcats lost some of its luster when two likely first-round two-guards -- Colorado's Alec Burks (6'6''-G-91) and Providence's Marshon Brooks (6'5''-G/F-89) -- each had to miss a group workout because of injuries.

Burks, regarded by most as one of the top shooting guards in the draft, suffered a shoulder injury at his workout with the Bucks earlier this weekend. Brooks, another likely first-round selection, suffered an ankle injury in his workout with the Knicks.

Although Bobcats coach Paul Silas said he hoped to get both players in for a workout, he said he would have no problem drafting a player who hadn't been in for a workout. In fact, he did just that with Baron Davis in 1999 with the third overall pick.

'I had not seen [Davis] play at all, but told his agent, 'If you don't want him to come here, send him overseas somewhere, because I'm going to draft him.''

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Knicks have plenty of candidates to replace president Donnie Walsh - by Eurobasket News
Now that the shock of the departure of Knicks team president Donnie Walsh has worn off, the organization will now have to work to find a replacement. To that end, Walsh told reporters on Friday, he is staying on as a consultant, helping the Knicks find his successor.

Glen Grunwald, the teams vice president of operations, will take over for Walsh on an interim basis when Walshs contract expires on June 30. Grunwald, who ran the Raptors from 1998-2004, is expected to be a top candidate for the permanent job.

Scott O'Neil, who is the president of Madison Square Garden and has been successful in selling the Knicks on the business side, will be considered for the job, too, according to a report in the New York Daily News. ONeil was a key part of the Knicks attempt to lure LeBron James to New York last summer and maintains close ties with James agency, CAA.

There are several good outside candidates available, too, though, first among them being Kevin Pritchard, who rebuilt the Blazers before being abruptly fired last year. Pritchard is well-respected around the league and is expected to get an interview.

According to the New York Post, Mark Warkentien, the former general manager of the Nuggets who now works for the Knicks, is expected to be a candidate. The paper also suggested that Jeff Bower, who was once the general manager and coach of the Hornets, will be interviewed, along with former Cavaliers GM Danny Ferry and ex-Knicks players Allan Houston and Kiki Vandeweghe .

While speculation, upon the announcement of Walshs departure, immediately turned to Isiah Thomas as a possible replacement, Thomas reportedly will not get consideration for the job. Despite Knicks owner James Dolans close relationship with Thomas, other executives within the organization convinced Dolan that bringing Thomas back would not be in the Knicks best interest, according to the Post.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Knicks coach not concerned about losing job - by Eurobasket News
Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni said he is not worried at all about being back next season, though his greatest ally, president Donnie Walsh, is leaving on June 30 after turning down James Dolan's contract-extension offer.

DAntoni has the support of Walsh, who will stay on next season as a consultant and Garden sports president Scott ONeil, and he expects to meet with Knicks owner James Dolan shortly.

It is unclear if a contract extension would be discussed, but one source said Dolan likes DAntoni a lot. DAntoni has one year and $6 million left on his contract, and Dolan is not keen on eating it during a lockout-shortened season with revenues down.

DAntoni told The Post yesterday, in his first interview since the season ended, that he is not concerned about his future with the Knicks.

No, I feel good, DAntoni said. I hate it Donnie is leaving. I owe a lot to him. We had three good years. He did exactly what he wanted and said he would do and hes got us in position to be one of the better teams in the NBA next year. Thats to his credit.

We worked well together, he added. I appreciate his support and I feel good about us having a great year next season. Its all a coach can ask for, to have him give me that chance. Hes put me in that position.

DAntoni thought he and Walsh would be together next season, but Walsh is primed to make sure at least DAntoni will be back, regardless of the new presidential hire.

I think everyone was a little surprised by it, DAntoni said. Everyone thought they would reach a positive conclusion. But they didnt and now we go forward. Nothing in sports is surprising.

DAntoni spoke with Walsh for two hours Friday moments after the stunning announcement. But he declined to offer up his own spin on why Walsh is gone. Multiple sources said Walsh did not feel comfortable with the contract language regarding full autonomy to hire his successor and backed out of a verbal agreement to return.

Donnie keeps his cards close to the vest, DAntoni said. Theres probably 1,000 little things, and I do think he missed his family [in Indiana].

Glen Grunwald, senior VP of basketball and former Raptors president, will become interim president starting July 1 and could be considered for the long-term gig.

DAntoni said he doesnt expect more personnel input than usual.

Glens great, DAntoni said. Hes been terrific. Hes experienced and he knows what hes doing. Donnie will run the draft with Glen like they always do, and Im prepared to be there to help them out.

DAntoni said he will not put his hat in the ring in attempt to add a general manager title when me meets with Dolan. One source said DAntoni was considering it after having both roles in Phoenix for a couple of years.

No, I just want to coach, DAntoni said. Ive done that before. I dont want to wake up in the morning and have to speak to an agent.

Walsh spoke glowingly about DAntoni in his farewell conference call, repeating again how he put his coach in awful position the first two seasons when he kept changing the roster to open cap space.

Walsh did it to DAntoni again at the trade deadline, gutting the roster in the Carmelo Anthony trade. DAntoni guided the Knicks to a 42-40 record and their first playoff berth since 2004. The Knicks were swept by Boston after Amare Stoudemire and Chauncey Billups got injured. DAntoni came under attack from some fans after the sweep.

I felt terrible, as a general manager, I had to put my coach in a position where he didnt have a chance to win, Walsh said. And I can remember looking down, thinking, What have I done to this kid? when we were losing.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com

Kemba Walker: 'I'm a point guard first' - by Eurobasket News
UConn product Kemba Walker (6'1''-PG-90) has the best college resume of all draft prospects, but he faces questions about his ability to play point guard in the league. During the draft process, Walker is trying to convince NBA types that should not be a concern for them.

Are you enjoying the draft process so far?

Kemba Walker: Yeah, Im enjoying it. Its the first time I go through a process like this. Im just trying take everything in and just get used to it cause its a different lifestyle now and I have no choice.

Anything that has surprised you about the whole thing?

KW: Nothing surprising yet. I didnt get anything that surprised me. The most interesting thing was probably the team interviews. That was the most interesting thing so far. But other than that, there was really nothing surprising.

When you go through those interviews with teams, whats the main thing you want to make clear about yourself?

KW: The main thing some teams worry about me is that Im a shooting guard Stuff like that. So I try to let them know Im a point guard first. Thats really it.

You dont see yourself as a combo guard in the NBA, like a Gilbert Arenas? Do you think youre going to be strictly a point guard in the NBA?

KW: Yes, Ive been playing point guard my whole life. This year was the first year where I really scored a lot and played off the ball a lot. Im a point guard. And on the next level, I see myself playing point guard my whole career.

The player that is projected to go No. 1 in the draft, Kyrie Irving, is also a point guard. In which areas do you feel youre better than him and where do you think hes better than you?

KW: (Laughs) Oh man. I dont know. I didnt have the chance to see him up close much because of his injury. I dont know, I really dont know.

Do you see yourself becoming a locker room leader in the NBA like you were at UConn?

KW: Yeah. Its going to be hard my first year because Im going to be one of the young guys in the locker room and its not like veterans are going to follow my lead. But I will try my best to gain the respect of the veterans.

Do you think a point guard can be efficient being just a leader on the court but not in the locker room?

KW: I dont know about that. You have to be a leader at all times, especially point guards. You still gotta have some type of leadership off the court.

Do you care more about your draft position or about the team that selects you?

KW: It doesnt really matter. I just want to have my name called. Thats really it. Being able to be drafted and just getting the chance to play in the NBA.

Some guys dont really want to play in Canada. How would you feel about getting selected by the Raptors?

KW: I dont care, to tell you the truth. Wherever I go, I will try to play and show my leadership. I would try to bring a winning attitude to that organization. So yeah, it doesnt matter.

Which player has influenced your style of play the most? Have you modeled your game after anyone?

KW: No, Ive had guys that I really like, but I didnt model my game after anyone.

Which point guards have you enjoyed the most?

KW: Chris Paul, who is such a great point guard, or Derrick Rose, whos had a great year this year.

Does winning the NCAA title compare to anything youve experienced before in your life?

KW: No, that was awesome. Maybe you can compare it to me graduating. But winning the national championship was such a special thing for me and my teammates (that you cant compare).

Courtesy of http://blogs.hoopshype.com

Pistons fire coach Kuester - by Eurobasket News
The Detroit Pistons have fired head coach John Kuester .

The team announced the move Sunday after a meeting between ownership and Kuester. He had a 57-107 record over two seasons with the club, including a 30-52 mark in 2010-11. This past season was marked by conflict between Kuester and some of his players.

'Decisions like this are difficult to make,' said Joe Dumars, president of basketball operations, in a release from the team. 'I want to thank John for his hard work and dedication to the organization over the last two years, however, at this time we have decided to make a change.'

Dumars said in a statement that the team has no timetable for hiring a successor.

Kuester was named head coach on July 9, 2009, but the Pistons failed to make the playoffs in both of his seasons. They hadn't missed the postseason in consecutive years since a three-year stretch from 1993-95.

Detroit was an Eastern Conference power for most of the last decade, when Rick Carlisle, Larry Brown and Flip Saunders had successful stints as head coach. The Pistons won the NBA title in 2004 under Brown and reached the Finals the following season.

Saunders then led Detroit to three consecutive conference finals appearances, but the Pistons have since declined. They went 39-43 in one season with Michael Curry as head coach before Kuester took over.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Brendan Haywood a game-time decision - by Eurobasket News
Backup center Brendan Haywood's (7'0''-C-79, college: N.Carolina) status is officially a game-time decision, but the Dallas Mavericks are preparing as if he will not play in Sunday night's Game 3 of the NBA Finals.

Haywood left Game 2 with a strained right hip flexor that he originally suffered during practice last week and aggravated during Thursday night's series-tying comeback win over the Miami Heat. His participation in Saturday's practice and Sunday's shootaround consisted of stand-still shooting.

'Still a little tight,' Haywood said as he left the court following shootaround to get treatment from assistant athletic trainer Dionne Calhoun. The injury especially bothers Haywood when he tries to sprint, which he hasn't attempted since Game 2.

Dallas president of basketball operations Donnie Nelson has called Haywood the 'unsung hero' of the Mavericks' playoff run. Haywood is averaging 3.3 points and 4.3 rebounds in 16 minutes during the playoffs. More importantly, he has served as a strong defensive backbone for a second unit that features a few scorers with defensive limitations.

Ian Mahinmi, a 6-foot-10, 24-year-old reserve, could get his first significant playing time of the postseason. Coach Rick Carlisle could also opt to go with a smaller lineup that features 6-foot-7 Shawn Marion at center when starting big man Tyson Chandler rests.

Chandler staying out of foul trouble is always a key for the Mavs, but that is especially true if Haywood isn't able to play. Chandler has fouled out twice in the playoffs and been in foul trouble in several other games.

'He's going to have to be aggressive but discreet about foul trouble,' Carlisle said. 'In these situations, he might have to play on the ground a little bit more.'

Added Chandler: 'I've just got to be smart about my fouls and situations. I've still got to be aggressive, still going to challenge shots. But going for pump fakes and all that stuff, I've got to be smart about that.'

Courtesy of ESPN

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


Coach K unsure how to run new-look Duke - by Eurobasket News
Rebuilding isn't a word in Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski's vocabulary. Of course, it shouldn't be. The Blue Devils are expected to compete for national titles each and every season, even in seasons like 2011-12, when the three best players -- including four-year veterans and 2010 national champions Nolan Smith and Kyle Singler and star freshman Kyrie Irving -- leave behind huge gaps in minutes, production and leadership.

It's not that Duke won't have talent next season. Quite the contrary. The Blue Devils boast the top-rated recruit in the country in point guard Austin Rivers, the centerpiece of a five-man recruiting class that lacks a single player ranked outside the top 11 at his respective position. Duke also returns sharpshooting guards Seth Curry and Andre Dawkins, and it will have all three Plumlee brothers -- Miles, Mason and Marshall, one of the aforementioned recruits -- manning the frontcourt. Likewise, there are a handful of talented players waiting in the wings, including sophomore Josh Hairston. And what of Ryan Kelly's role as a stretch forward?

The point is, Coach K will have lots of very talented players in his lineup next season. But much of that talent is new or inexperienced. Does that mean a change in Coach K's offense? A deeper rotation? More reliance on uptempo basketball?

Interestingly enough, Coach K doesn't seem to have those answers yet, either. From the Raleigh News & Observer:

Mike Krzyzewski knows little about what kind of system Duke will run next basketball season.

Instead, the Blue Devils' coach will wait until after the team's trip to play exhibition games in China and Dubai in August to form a rotation and a system of play after losing first-team All-ACC seniors Nolan Smith and Kyle Singler from last season's team. [...]

Krzyzewski said it will take time to figure out how to play in 2011-12. Duke has just one senior, Miles Plumlee, next season and loses 52.8 percent of its scoring off a 2010-11 team that finished 32-5. He will keep things simple on the trip to China and watch to see which players emerge as contributors and leaders before making any decisions.

'We have very good talent, and we'll have good depth,' Krzyzewski said. 'But we don't have anybody coming back who for a whole year, you knew he was that [key] guy. So the China trip, we'll keep it simple. We'll get to know our guys.'

That is one of the great benefits of Duke's planned exhibition trips to China and Dubai. The games may be exhibitions, and they might not always be the most competitive affairs, but they will give Duke's coaches a much larger time to evaluate talent and, more importantly, the best ways to utilize that talent with something resembling coherence.

At first glance, it wouldn't be surprising if Coach K decided to speed things up in 2011-12. The Blue Devils weren't slow last season, but they weren't exactly speed demons, either. The additions of young, versatile players like Rivers, Quinn Cook, Michael Gbinije and Alex Murphy could provide a dynamic all-court supplement to the spread-the-floor shooting of Curry and Dawkins.

Maybe that's just me, fan of fast basketball, projecting my hopes for maximum hoops entertainment. Given the personnel, though, it also makes sense.

Courtesy of ESPN

Juwan Staten finally decides on West Virginia - by Eurobasket News
West Virginia has had good luck with transfers and Twitter.

First, La Salle transfer Aaric Murray (6'10''-C-89) announced on Twitter back in early May that he would be attending West Virginia.

On Saturday afternoon, the Mountaineers struck again. Former Dayton transfer Juwan Staten (6'0''-G), who had committed to Penn State before Ed DeChellis left for Navy, decided to head to Morgantown to play under Bob Huggins.

'After this long wait I have finally decided where I will finish out my collegeiate basketball career', Staten tweeted. 'West Virginia University!'

Staten, a 6-0 point guard from Ohio who played at Oak Hill Academy (Va.), averaged 8.5 points and 5.4 assists during his freshman season at Dayton. He left the Flyers in late March, saying he did not feel the program was the right fit for him.

One month later, he announced (also on Twitter) that he would be attending Penn State. When DeChellis surprisingly left the Nittany Lions for the vacant head coaching position at Navy, Staten immediately opened his recruitment.

Staten will sit out next season, along with Murray, but will have three years of eligibility remaining at West Virginia.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Former Maryland signee Martin Bruenig chooses UW - by Eurobasket News
Luckily for Lorenzo Romar, a pipeline from Germany to Washington helped the Huskies secure one of the best available players in the class of 2011.

On Saturday, former Maryland signee Martin Breunig (6'8''-F-92) informed Romar and the rest of the Washington coaching staff that he was headed to the Pacific Northwest.

He wants to be part of a winning program and sees a lot of potential at Washington to win championships and develop as a player, Martin Esters, Breunigs mentor, told CBSSports.com. Paul Fortier was also key in his recruitment.

Interestingly, two Germans playing their college basketball at Washington in the 1980s played a part in bringing Breunig, also a Germany native, to the Huskies.

The fact that two other Germans, Chris Welp and Detlef Schrempf, who is from his hometown, had great careers there also helped, Esters said.

Welp ended his career as the schools all-time leading scorer in 1987, while Schrempf went on to a have a productive 16-year NBA career, the majority coming with the Seattle SuperSonics.

Breunig, a 6-foot-9 forward who attended St. Johns Northwestern Military Academy (Wisc.), chose the Huskies over South Florida.

'I know he will work as hard as anyone to get on the floor,' Esters said. 'The greatest thing about him is his potential. He will be a star at that level; it is just hard to say how soon.'

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

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


NBL Round 8: Nelson Giants defeat leader Bay Hawks - by Eurobasket News
The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with defeat of the leader and favorites losing the games.

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Bay Hawks (9-2) in Stoke on Saturday night. Visitors were defeated by fifth ranked Nelson G. (4-5) 73-59. The game was mostly controlled by Nelson G.. Bay Hawks managed to win third quarter 22-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Nelson G. made 7 blocks. American guard Rod Grizzard (203-80, college: Alabama) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. International forward Mika Vukona (197-82) contributed with 15 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Canadian swingman Galen Young (201-75, college: Charlotte) replied with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds for Bay Hawks. Nelson G. maintains fifth position with 4-5 record, which they share with Southland S. Bay Hawks at the other side still keep top place with two games lost. They share the position with Wellington S.. Nelson G. is looking forward to face bottom-ranked Taranaki MA (#9) in New Plymouth in the next round. Bay Hawks will play at home against Waikato P. (#3) in Hamilton and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Important game to mention about took place in Wellington. First ranked Bay Hawks (9-2) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging top-ranked Wellington S. (9-2) 100-99 in the game for the first place. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Worth to mention a great performance of Canadian swingman Galen Young (201-75, college: Charlotte) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 25 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists and Josh Pace who added 21 points and 6 assists during the contest. The former international forward Casey Frank (203-77, college: N.Arizona) responded with 20 points. Bay Hawks maintains first position with 9-2 record, which they share with defeated Wellington S. Bay Hawks will play against Waikato P. (#3) in Hamilton in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Wellington S. will have a break next round.
A very close game took place in Southland between Southland S. and Taranaki MA. Sixth ranked Southland S. (4-5) got a very close home victory over 7th ranked Taranaki MA (2-8). Southland S. managed to escape with a 2-point win 97-95 on Saturday evening. The winners were led by Mark Dickel who scored that evening 23 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Even a double-double of 16 points and 17 rebounds by Marcus Campbell did not help to save the game for Taranaki MA. Taranaki MA's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Southland S. moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Nelson G. Loser Taranaki MA dropped to the bottom position with eight games lost. They share it with OceanaGold N.. Southland S. will meet at home OceanaGold N. (#8) in the next round. Taranaki MA will play against Nelson G. in Stoke and hope to secure a win.
The game in Auckland was also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked Nelson G. (4-5) played at the court of 8th ranked Auckland P. (2-7). Nelson G. did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 91-73. The best player for the winners was Mika Vukona who had a double-double by scoring 16 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Nelson G. maintains fifth position with 4-5 record, which they share with Southland S. Auckland P. lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh place with seven games lost. Nelson G.'s next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Taranaki MA (#9) in New Plymouth. Auckland P. will play at home against Waikato P. in Hamilton.
The game in Dunedin was also quite interesting. 7th ranked Taranaki MA (2-8) played at the court of eighth ranked OceanaGold N. (2-8). OceanaGold N. managed to secure a 4-point victory 92-88 on Friday. Lance Allred orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Taranaki MA's coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. OceanaGold N. maintains eighth position with 2-8 record, which they share with defeated Taranaki MA. OceanaGold N. will face higher ranked Southland S. (#6) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Taranaki MA will play against Nelson G. in Stoke.

In the last game of round 8 OceanaGold N. was beaten by Manawatu J. on the road 89-83.

Southland S. - Taranaki MA 97-95

A very close game took place in Southland between Southland S. and Taranaki MA. Sixth ranked Southland S. (4-5) got a very close home victory over 7th ranked Taranaki MA (2-8). Southland S. managed to escape with a 2-point win 97-95 on Saturday evening. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. The winners were led by the former international guard Mark Dickel (187-76, college: UNLV) who scored that evening 23 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists and the former international swingman Brendon Polyblank (200-78, college: Texas St.) supported him with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Even a double-double of 16 points and 17 rebounds by American center Marcus Campbell (214-82, college: Mississippi St., agency: SportsTalent) did not help to save the game for Taranaki MA. His fellow American import guard Jack Leasure (191-86, college: Co.Carolina) added 25 points for the guests. Four Southland S. and five Taranaki MA players scored in double figures. Taranaki MA's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Southland S. moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Nelson G. Loser Taranaki MA dropped to the bottom position with eight games lost. They share it with OceanaGold N.. Southland S. will meet at home OceanaGold N. (#8) in the next round. Taranaki MA will play against Nelson G. in Stoke and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Southland S.: K.Dickens 24+7reb, M.Dickel 23+7reb+7ast, B.Polyblank 22+6reb+4ast, D.Peck 10, G.Dawson 10+7reb, S.Dobbs 6+3reb+1ast
Taranaki MA: J.Leasure 25+4reb+1ast, M.Campbell 16+17reb, A.Bailey-Nowell 15+5reb+2ast, R.Beesly 13+1reb, C.Stuart 11+2reb+1ast, Z.Meehl 6+2reb+2ast
gschID: 122693


Manawatu J. - OceanaGold N. 89-83

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked Manawatu J. (5-5) beat 8th ranked OceanaGold N. (2-8) in Palmerston North 89-83 on Sunday. OceanaGold N. trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 23-18 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 83-89 at the end of the game. The former international swingman Duane Bailey (192-91) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds. American guard Darryl Hudson (196-85, college: Howard, agency: TSS Management) contributed with 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. American guard Scott O'Gallagher (188-84, college: Warner Pacific) replied with 28 points (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) and international power forward Craig Bradshaw (207-83, college: Winthrop) added 18 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for OceanaGold N.Five Manawatu J. and four OceanaGold N. players scored in double figures. Manawatu J. moved-up to fourth place. Loser OceanaGold N. keeps the eighth position with eight games lost. Manawatu J. will have a break next round. OceanaGold N. will play on the road against Southland S. (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Manawatu J.: D.Hudson 21+7reb+1ast, D.Bailey 18+13reb+2ast, J.Trueman 17+1reb+4ast, H.Chris 13+3reb+2ast, N.Horvath 11+16reb+2ast, M.Te Huna 9+2reb+4ast
OceanaGold N.: S.O'Gallagher 28+4reb+3ast, C.Bradshaw 18+9reb+2ast, L.Allred 13+12reb+1ast, M.Morrison 10+7reb+2ast, J.Ross 6+1reb+2ast, S.King 5+1reb
gschID: 122691


Nelson G. - Bay Hawks 73-59

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Bay Hawks (9-2) in Stoke on Saturday night. Visitors were defeated by fifth ranked Nelson G. (4-5) 73-59. The game was mostly controlled by Nelson G.. Bay Hawks managed to win third quarter 22-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Nelson G. made 7 blocks. American guard Rod Grizzard (203-80, college: Alabama) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. International forward Mika Vukona (197-82) contributed with 15 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Canadian swingman Galen Young (201-75, college: Charlotte) replied with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds and American guard Josh Pace (198-83, college: Syracuse) added 16 points in the effort for Bay Hawks. Nelson G. maintains fifth position with 4-5 record, which they share with Southland S. Bay Hawks at the other side still keep top place with two games lost. They share the position with Wellington S.. Nelson G. is looking forward to face bottom-ranked Taranaki MA (#9) in New Plymouth in the next round. Bay Hawks will play at home against Waikato P. (#3) in Hamilton and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Nelson G.: R.Grizzard 20+13reb+4ast, D.Dora 15+7reb+1ast, M.Vukona 15+9reb+2ast, D.Jones 9, P.Jones 8+5reb+3ast, J.Bloxham 4+1reb
Bay Hawks: J.Pace 16+4reb, G.Young 10+13reb+3ast, B.Hill 8+3reb+1ast, P.Winitana 6+3reb+1ast, A.Trousdell 6+6reb, C.Daniel 5+4reb
gschID: 122692


Auckland P. - Nelson G. 73-91

The game in Auckland was also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked Nelson G. (4-5) played at the court of 8th ranked Auckland P. (2-7). Nelson G. did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 91-73. It looked good early as Auckland P. took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Nelson G. had a 26-14 second period charge getting the lead and Auckland P. was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 73-91. The best player for the winners was international forward Mika Vukona (197-82) who had a double-double by scoring 16 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists. American guard Rod Grizzard (203-80, college: Alabama) chipped in 18 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. American power forward Kevin Mickens (207-83, college: George Mason) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists and his fellow American import forward Kevin Smith (196-79, college: Lee) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Nelson G. maintains fifth position with 4-5 record, which they share with Southland S. Auckland P. lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh place with seven games lost. Nelson G.'s next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Taranaki MA (#9) in New Plymouth. Auckland P. will play at home against Waikato P. in Hamilton.
Top scorers:
Nelson G.: R.Grizzard 18+8reb+5ast, D.Dora 17+8reb, M.Vukona 16+12reb+4ast, P.Jones 11+3reb+4ast, J.Bloxham 11+1reb, M.Fitchett 8+1reb+5ast
Auckland P.: K.Mickens 14+10reb+4ast, K.Smith 14+7reb, E.Bartlett 13+1reb+1ast, H.O'Riley 11+2reb+3ast, N.Barrow 5+1reb+1ast, D.Boucher 4+7reb+4ast
gschID: 122687


Wellington S. - Bay Hawks 99-100

Important game to mention about took place in Wellington. First ranked Bay Hawks (9-2) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging top-ranked Wellington S. (9-2) 100-99 in the game for the first place. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The guests were ahead by 1 point but lost the second period ending it with a 8-point deficit before their 27-18 run, which allowed them to win the game. Wellington S. was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of Canadian swingman Galen Young (201-75, college: Charlotte) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 25 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists and American guard Josh Pace (198-83, college: Syracuse) who added 21 points and 6 assists during the contest. The former international forward Casey Frank (203-77, college: N.Arizona) responded with 20 points and international guard Lindsay Tait (194-82, agency: Impact Basketball) scored 13 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Four Bay Hawks and five Wellington S. players scored in double figures. Bay Hawks maintains first position with 9-2 record, which they share with defeated Wellington S. Bay Hawks will play against Waikato P. (#3) in Hamilton in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Wellington S. will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Bay Hawks: G.Young 25+12reb+4ast, J.Pace 21+1reb+6ast, P.Winitana 15+4reb+3ast, A.Trousdell 13+5reb+2ast, C.Daniel 9+4reb, J.Kenny 9+3reb+2ast
Wellington S.: C.Webster 20+4ast, C.Frank 20+4reb+3ast, T.McLean 14+1reb+2ast, L.Tait 13+7reb+6ast, K.Johnson 12+8reb, E.Maxey 10+2reb+1ast
gschID: 122688


OceanaGold N. - Taranaki MA 92-88

The game in Dunedin was also quite interesting. 7th ranked Taranaki MA (2-8) played at the court of eighth ranked OceanaGold N. (2-8). OceanaGold N. managed to secure a 4-point victory 92-88 on Friday. American center Lance Allred (211-81, college: Weber St., agency: SportsTalent) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. International power forward Craig Bradshaw (207-83, college: Winthrop) contributed with 24 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. American guard Jack Leasure (191-86, college: Co.Carolina) replied with 32 points and 7 rebounds and his fellow American import center Marcus Campbell (214-82, college: Mississippi St., agency: SportsTalent) added 24 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Taranaki MA. Five OceanaGold N. and four Taranaki MA players scored in double figures. Taranaki MA's coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. OceanaGold N. maintains eighth position with 2-8 record, which they share with defeated Taranaki MA. OceanaGold N. will face higher ranked Southland S. (#6) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Taranaki MA will play against Nelson G. in Stoke.
Top scorers:
OceanaGold N.: C.Bradshaw 24+7reb+2ast, S.O'Gallagher 23+4reb+5ast, L.Allred 18+10reb+5ast, M.Morrison 11+5reb, S.To'omata 10+3ast, T.Rowe 2+1reb
Taranaki MA: J.Leasure 32+7reb+3ast, M.Campbell 24+6reb+1ast, A.Bailey-Nowell 11+7reb, Z.Meehl 10+6reb, L.Abrams 6+3reb+1ast, R.Beesly 4+4reb+1ast
gschID: 122689




Manawatu add Chris Hagan - by Eurobasket News
Manawatu Jets strengthened their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Chris Hagan (175-G-89). The 22-year-old guard signed his first pro deal. Chris Hagan graduated from Midwestern State University in 2011. The guard averaged 21.4 points, 4.0 assists and 2.0 rebounds per game in his senior season with the Mustangs. Chris Hagan was named All-LSC South Division Player of the Year. He also made it into NABC Division II All-South Central Region 1st Team. Chris Hagan has already debuted for the Jets. He played 22 minutes against the Nuggets helping the Jets to an 89:83 win. Hagan delivered 13 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists in his debut.


Standings Men
NBL Standings
 1. Bay Hawks 9-2 
 2. Wellington S. 9-2 
 3. Waikato P. 8-3 
 4. Manawatu J. 5-5 
 5. Nelson G. 4-5 
 6. Southland S. 4-5 
 7. Auckland P. 2-7 
 8. OceanaGold N. 2-8 
 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. Smith, Waikato P.19.4 
 6. Dora, Nelson G.19.4 
 7. Pace, Bay Hawks19.1 
 8. Bradshaw, OceanaG.18.8 
 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.11.4 
 3. Vukona, Nelson G.10.5 
 4. Campbell, Taranaki.10.5 
 5. Allred, OceanaGo.10.3 
 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. O''Gallagher, Ocea.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. Braswell, Southlan.1.6 
 9. Frank, Wellington1.6 
 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. Campbell, Taranaki.1.1 
 7. Anthony, Waika.1.1 
 8. Vukona, Nelson G.1.0 
 9. Brown, Auckland P.1.0 
 10. Johnson, Wellingt.0.9 


*****************************************************
  NORWAY   


Norwegian U16 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
4 Dragisa Azanjaz 184-G-96
5 Mikkel Kolstad 177-G-95
6 Qystein Skogvold 183-G-95
7 Truls Torgersen 184-G-95
8 Magnus Elgmork 181-G-95
9 Vuk Krivokapic 190-F-95
10 Kevin Fiabema 190-F-95
11 Franck Millestad 186-G-95 Sandvika Norway
12 Jonathan Linnestad 195-C-95
13 Joachim Knudsen 192-F-95
14 Sjur Berg 196-C-96
15 Matz Stockman 206-C-95



Norwegian U18 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Adrian Schonning
Schonning
Lars Harto
Harto
Stein Otabor
Otabor
Sindre de Lange
de Lange
Nikola Blantancic
Blantancic
#e#5
4 Anders Engen 182-G-93 Miners Norway
5 Jorgen Gjestemoen 180-G-93 Miners Norway
6 Stein Otabor 187-G-93 Gimle Norway
7 Sindre de Lange 187-G-93 Gimle Norway
8 Adrian Schonning 189-F/G-93 Froya Norway
9 Espen Fjaerestad 189-G-94
10 Nikola Blantancic 194-F-94 Ulriken Norway
11 Henrik Davidsen 200-F-93
12 Chris-Ebou Ndow 197-F/G-93 Ulriken Norway
13 Sigurd Staver 199-F-94 Sandvika Norway
14 Aly Hudgins F Baerum Norway
15 Lars Harto 198-F-93 Baerum Norway



Norway U18 secured initial victory in Solna - by Eurobasket News
Norway U18 secured initial victory in Solna over Finland U18 78:71 on June 3rd. This victory allowed them to leave the last spot and finished on the fifth place.
The game had two different halves and could bring the victory to any of the teams. Finland grabbed 24-12 in the first period and added 24-17 for 48:29 halftime advantage. Norway however did not give up and after 26-7 tied the game in the end of the third period. Moreover with 23-16 the Norway team won the game. Chris-Ebou Ndow (197-F/G-93) erupted with 33 points and 13 rebounds, while Lars Myhre Harto netted 18. Joonas Caven (203-C/F-93) produced 18 points in the losing case and Ilari Seppala notched 15.
On June 4th Denmark grabbed the valuable win over Norway 89:83. Denmark started well and enjoyed 30:26 after the first period. They also won the second and the third quarters, while Norway bounced back with 20-15 in the last stanza. Kevin Larsen (201-F-93) stepped up with 13 points, while Soren Olsen (182-G-93) and Zarko Jukic (200-F-93) followed him with 12 points apiece. Stein Otabor (187-G-93) ended up with 17 points in the losing effort.


Norway U16 teams finished winless at Nordic Cup - by Eurobasket News
Norway U16 teams finished winless at Nordic Cup, but showed great game and effort in the tournament.
On June 3rd Finland overcame Norway 109:67. It was a tough start for the winners of the group as they took only 22-21 lead. Moreover Norway produced 20-17 in the second period and had 2-point advantage at the halftime. The second half meanwhile belonged only to the Finnish side. They erupted with 36-12 in the third quarter and reached 3-digit number due to 34-14 in the last stanza. Six players scored in double figures as Emir Sulejmanovic led them all with 17 points. Ville Hanninen (192-G-95) posted 16, while Anton Odabasi delivered 12. Dragisa Azanjaz (184-G-96) ended up with 22 points in the losing effort.
Denmark U16 outscored Norway U16 77:71. The winners opened the game with 21-17 and increased the lead due to 17-12 in the second period. Both squads nailed 17 points each in the third stanza, while Norway reduced the gap after 25-22 in the last period. Rasmus Hansen (203-C/F-95) was unstoppable with 32 points and 10 boards, while Aladdin Barakeh (190-F-95) followed him with 16 points. Dragisa Azanjaz delivered 26 points in the losing effort.


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


Thoughts on the Final Day of the 2011 FIBA-Asia Champions Cup - by Enzo Flojo
Final Standings:
CHAMPION: Al Riyadi (LIB)
2nd: Mahram (IRN)
3rd: Al Rayyan (QAT)
4th: Smart-Gilas (PHL)
5th: ASU (JOR)
6th: Al Jala'a (SYR)
7th: Al Ittihad (KSA)
8th: Duhok (IRQ)
9th (Tied): Al Shabab (UAE) and WKL Dragons (MAS)

Speeding Bullets:
- Smart-Gilas continues to be medal-less in the Champions Cup, getting beaten by a more athletic Al Rayyan five. It's a good sign, though, that Gilas remained competitive all throughout the tourney. Adding Jimmy Alapag and Kelly Williams will definitely help their shooting and athleticism.
- The Qataris finish 3rd yet again. It cements them as a force in the region, but they have yet to dominate the way the Iranians and Lebanese have.
- Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) got shut down in the 4th quarter of the gold medal match. He was still very prolific, but lost a second head-to-head match-up with Fadi Khatib (199-F-79). The next time they face each other could be at the Jones Cup or the FIBA-Asia Men's tourney later in the year.
- The Lebanese Tiger torched the hoops for 4 big points, punctuating a superb all-around performance by Al Riyadi in the tournament. The club finished without any losses, 7-0, en route to their first ever Champions Cup title, and the they also snapped Iran's 4-year stranglehold on the league championship.

More on HoopNut.blogspot.com

Rayyan beat Smart Gilas to earn Bronze in Philippines - by Eurobasket News
Rayyan - Smart Gilas 71:64

Rayyan stepped onto the pedestal at Asia Club Championship in Manila. The Qatari champions overcame Smart Gilas tonight in the consolation final. Chauncey Leslie (183-G-81, agency: TSS Management, college: Iowa) scored 19 points to pace the winners.
Rayyan opened the game on a 10:4 run to take the lead. Smart Gilas erased the deficit late in the quarter however Chauncey Leslie capped it with a treble to give the visitors a 17:15 lead. Rayyan kept Smart Gilas at bay throughout the second term. The Qatari team arrived at the interval up by 3 points 36:33. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term but Smart Gilas were unable to deny the deficit. Rayyan enjoyed a 50:46 lead with ten minutes to go in regulation. Chancey Leslie and Michael Cuffee stretched the lead to 9 points with under two minutes to go in the game. Joseph Evans Casio (177-PG-86) and Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) dragged the hosts within 5 points but Targuy Ngombo (198-F-89, agency: Court Side) and Chauncey Leslie went perfect from the stripe to seal the victory for Rayyan.
Targuy Ngombo accounted for 18 points and 12 rebounds, while Yasseen Musa (204-F-80) added 11 points and 13 rebounds in the victory. Marcus Douthit replied with 28 points and 17 rebounds for Smart Gilas. Joseph Evans Casio contributed 10 points and 7 assists in the loss.

Rayyan: Chauncey Leslie 19, Targuy Ngombo 18+12 boards, Yasseen Musa 11+13 boards
Smart Gilas: Marcus Douthit 28+17 boards, Joseph Evans Casio 10


*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL   


Portuguese teams decide about foreign players - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
In a meeting held yesterday, in Lisbon, as announced by newspaper A Bola, LPB and Proliga teams decided the number of foreign players that can be registered next season.

In respect to the European Community rules, the Portuguese Federation had to give equal opportunities to Communitarian and Portuguese citizens. But Mario Saldanha had also said he expected teams to reach an oral agreement, to avoid a big number of foreign players in the leagues.

So, the deal between teams will accept the inscription of 4 non-Portuguese players in LPB teams (one more than in 2010/11) and 2 non-Portuguese players in Proliga. This agreement is clear violation of the European Community rules, even if unwritten. But Portuguese basketball has decided this way.

In this meeting, teams also decided to clear changes in rosters until 72 hours before the first playoff game.

Next season will start in September 30th , with the Antonio Pratas Cup, while the Super Cup, played by Porto and CAB Madeira, will be disputed in October 5th


Time To Go To Kansas City And Leave Portugal: As a Champion - by Nate Bowie
Hmmmmm where do I start? Well I can defintly say that the feeling of excitement can be gratifying, but what really matters is how you choose to use it to build exhilarating motivation to overcome negative impulses! Life brings too many unwanted incidents and it is at that very moment when you must stand up and decide to take control! Choose to manage and arrange your abilities to make each day your absolute BEST!!! Do it every day and DO IT BIG. This whole paragraph basically sums up me and my team Terceira Basket season. A long exhausting season come to a screeching hault last weekend as we became Portuguese Champions. We went 9-2 in the playoffs sweeping Angra Basket and Povoa 3-0 in the quarter-finals and semi-finals and going to an exciting 5th game with Barcelos. Losing the first 2 games in the championship really humbled us as a unit and also put that well needed fire back into ourr eyes to win 3 straight games to claim the championship. As a team I felt as if we got a little complacent because we got the promotion, but quickly we didnt want to just settle for that.
From my very first game in November to my last game of the season in June it was a long long 32 games. With a season comes the ups and the downs, the smiles and the frowns, and also season changing injuries or even adding new players to the roster, all of this is apart of basketball. This is what makes basketball what it is. A team that is struggling to win games can turn into a team that surprises the world and win a championship. Now this is the best feeling in basketball and cant nobody i mean nobody take that from you (Terceira Basket). I can remember conversations throughout the season, who is better, who will win, what this opponent has done, what this opponent hasnt done, it all boils down to one thing and one thing only, shut up and play ball and then talk later. Yes I will admit at the start of a fresh season I had no clue how the future of our season will be, but I knew that we had a strong unit which makes a team which makes a family. One key to our success this year was the way we was able to bond off the court with our teammates and coach. This is what builds champions, sure we have our arguments as if we was married for 10 strong years but we quickly solve our problems and capitalize on them in a positive way. The turning point of this long grueling season to me was when Durrel Nevels stepped foot on the court wearing a Terceira jersey. I feel that he brought the key factors that we as a team needed. From Forward of the Year to All-Defensive Team and meaning other awards this right here sums it up on what he did to help us this season on the court. Quickly other teammates joined the bus and never got off, extending their helping hands to insure our team to be successful. Diogo Goncalves shot the lights out in many of our crucial games having Eurobasket Player of The Week a few times, from hitting eleven 3s in only 2 games against Barcelos. Alvaro Pontes also helped doing the things that never shows up in the stat sheet. Always defending the teams best player. (Yes I know he would get tired sometimes haha). He also made Eurobasket All-Portuguese Second Team which is a huge honor. Fred Tavares was a piece to our puzzle. From hitting big shots to playing the passing lanes and finishing with a conventional 3 point play. Teammates like Joao Avila, Dedalo Enes, Pedro Matos and Toni Pimentel assumed big roles in our success this season as well, doing any and everything that it takes.
Ending the season as a Champion is a huge accomplishment but also being POY (Player of The Year) is also an award that means alot to me. It made me feel as if all the hardships was not forgotten and it finally paid off. The awards I got this season was: POY, Guard of The Year, Newcomer of The Year, Import Player of The Year, First Team, All-Import Team, All-Newcomer Team, and lastly a Champ. (Obrigado Luis Cristovao)
I wanted to thank my coach Rui Fonseca for giving me that green light an extra confidence to accomplish everything this year. Without him I wouldnt have reached the top of the mountain. I also hope he returns to coaching Terceira Basket, he deserves it. I want to thank the true Terceira Basket fans for being there when we was struggling and sticking with us for this rollercoaster ride. I also want to think Eurobasket for giving me freedom to write my insight on life overseas so family and friends from America can step foot in my shoes for a few minutes as they read my blogs. And lastly I want to think God, if it wasnt for him none of this couldnt happen, all things happen for a reason. In conclusion I want to say: When there is a mountain to climb, waiting and watching will not make it small... So don't wait for opportunity - go and grab it!'

Hope you enjoy, until next time or next season stay tune and be safe. Any questions can be answered at nathanbowie@yahoo.com
Xau Nate Bowie (183-G-86, college: Cent.Arkansas)

Fred Gentry in Benfica - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
After one season in CAB Madeira, Frederick Gentry (201-F-77, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: McNeese St.) will be back to a top Portuguese team: this time, Sport Lisboa Benfica.

Gentry went to college at McNeese State University and started his professional career in Portugal, playing at Lusitania. He also played in Ginasio and FC Porto, and in Angola Petro and Inter Luanda.

This season, Frederick Gentry averaged 16.3 points, 6.7 rebounds and helped CAB Madeira winning the Portuguese Cup.

While Sport Lisboa Benfica hasnt confirmed Henrique Vieira as next season coach, its already known that Antonio Monteiro (202-F/C-89) will have a place in the roster. Monteiro was loaned to CB Penafiel and averaged 6.8 points and 4.2 rebounds.



Check for more: www.porbasket.blogspot.com





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


Standings - BSN
BSN Standings
 1. Bayamon 15-8 
 2. Guaynabo 14-9 
 3. Santurce 14-11 
 4. San German 13-9 
 5. Quebradillas 13-10 
 6. Arecibo 13-11 
 7. Humacao 11-13 
 8. Mayaguez 9-14 
 9. Coamo 9-16 
 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, Bayamon21.7 
 4. Johnson, Humacao21.4 
 5. Ayuso, Arecibo21.0 
 6. Villegas, Coamo19.5 
 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: 13.1
 1. Narvaez, Coamo13.1 
 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. Clemente, Humacao4.9 
 4. Guzman, Guaynabo4.8 
 5. Clinch, Isabela4.5 
 6. Apodaca, Quebradil.4.4 
 7. Vega, Coamo4.2 
 8. Rivera, Mayaguez4.0 
 9. Berdiel, Humacao3.8 
 10. Copeland, San G.3.8 
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. Hodge, Santurce1.4 
 8. Santiago, Santurce1.4 
 9. Chaney, Santurce1.4 
 10. Pellot-Rosa, San1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Kleon PENN
  Humacao
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Penn, Humacao2.7 
 2. Santiago, Arecibo2.0 
 3. Traylor, Bayamon2.0 
 4. Romero, Mayaguez1.9 
 5. Sanchez, Santurce1.9 
 6. Lee, Bayamon1.6 
 7. Aubry, Arecibo1.6 
 8. Randolph, Isabela1.5 
 9. Robinson, Mayaguez1.5 
 10. Ramos, Quebradill.1.3 


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


Rayyan beat Smart Gilas to earn Bronze in Philippines - by Eurobasket News
Rayyan - Smart Gilas 71:64

Rayyan stepped onto the pedestal at Asia Club Championship in Manila. The Qatari champions overcame Smart Gilas tonight in the consolation final. Chauncey Leslie (183-G-81, agency: TSS Management, college: Iowa) scored 19 points to pace the winners.
Rayyan opened the game on a 10:4 run to take the lead. Smart Gilas erased the deficit late in the quarter however Chauncey Leslie capped it with a treble to give the visitors a 17:15 lead. Rayyan kept Smart Gilas at bay throughout the second term. The Qatari team arrived at the interval up by 3 points 36:33. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term but Smart Gilas were unable to deny the deficit. Rayyan enjoyed a 50:46 lead with ten minutes to go in regulation. Chancey Leslie and Michael Cuffee stretched the lead to 9 points with under two minutes to go in the game. Joseph Evans Casio (177-PG-86) and Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) dragged the hosts within 5 points but Targuy Ngombo (198-F-89, agency: Court Side) and Chauncey Leslie went perfect from the stripe to seal the victory for Rayyan.
Targuy Ngombo accounted for 18 points and 12 rebounds, while Yasseen Musa (204-F-80) added 11 points and 13 rebounds in the victory. Marcus Douthit replied with 28 points and 17 rebounds for Smart Gilas. Joseph Evans Casio contributed 10 points and 7 assists in the loss.

Rayyan: Chauncey Leslie 19, Targuy Ngombo 18+12 boards, Yasseen Musa 11+13 boards
Smart Gilas: Marcus Douthit 28+17 boards, Joseph Evans Casio 10


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


Stats Leaders - Superleague A
Points Per Game
 Keith LANGFORD
  Khimky
  (193-G/F-83)
  Avg: 18.2
 1. Langford, Khimky18.2 
 2. Lampe, Unics17.4 
 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. Beverley, Spart.13.7 
 10. Wilkinson, Lokomo.13.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Alexey ZHUKANENKO
  Dynamo
  (210-F-86)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Zhukanenko, Dynamo7.4 
 2. Lampe, Unics7.3 
 3. Baxter, Enisey6.9 
 4. Khryapa, CSKA6.5 
 5. Massey, Lokomotiv6.3 
 6. Beverley, Spart.6.3 
 7. Brezec, Krasnie6.1 
 8. Monya, Khimky6.1 
 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, Unics4.0 
 7. Planinic, Khimky3.8 
 8. Samoylenko, Unics3.4 
 9. Holden, CSKA3.4 
 10. Rush, Krasnie Kri.3.2 
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. Domercant, Spart.1.3 
 9. Komarovskiy, Eni.1.3 
 10. Massey, Lokomotiv1.3 
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 


PBL Round 4 of Semi-Finals: Khimky tied the series over Unics at 2-2 - by Eurobasket News
Khimky - Unics 70-69

Khimky tied the series over Unics at 2-2 after 70:69 thriller in Game 4. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Unics Kazan won third quarter 18-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Croatian-Bosnian guard Zoran Planinic (199-82) fired 16 points and 5 assists for the winners. The former international center Alexey Savrasenko (215-79) chipped in 13 points and 8 rebounds (perfect from the field making all six shots). American guard Terrell Lyday (190-79, college: BYU) produced 17 points (made all of his seven free throws) and his fellow American import swingman Ricky Minard (194-82, college: Morehead St.) added 13 points and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Unics Kazan's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Khimky: Z.Planinic 16+4reb+5ast, A.Savrasenko 13+8reb+2ast, V.Fridzon 13+2reb, K.Loncar 8+1reb, T.Hansen 7+1reb, S.Monya 7+6reb+4ast
Unics: T.Lyday 17+4reb+1ast, R.Minard 13+1reb+4ast, P.Samoylenko 9+6reb+2ast, H.Rizvic 8+1reb, M.Lampe 8+2reb+1ast, V.Veremeenko 6+2reb
gschID: 129639




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


Vladislav Dragajlovic leads Ittihad to seventh-place finish in Manila - by Eurobasket News
Ittihad - Duhok 104:95

Ittihad earned the seventh overall position at Asia Club Championship in Philippines. They overcame Duhok on the final day of the tournament. Vladislav Dragajlovic (207-C-79, agency: Beo Basket) was the key man for the Saudi Arabia team as he banked 28 points and massive 21 rebounds en route to the victory.
Ittihad exploded with 29 points in the first frame to take an 8-point advantage after ten minutes. Adil Al Juhani (189-G-70) quickly boosted the margin to 16 points in the second quarter. Ittihad maintained the lead and earned a 58:41 advantage at the interval. Duhok capped the third quarter with a 19:9 rally to get within 8 points at the final break. Chudney Gray (188-G-78, agency: Promotex, college: St.John's) and Jenero Gorgiss dragged the Iraqi team as close as one point early in the final period. But Ittihad reacted with 11 points in a row to clear off once again. Duhok could not get closer than 5 points in the reminder of the contest as Ittihad wrapped up their campaign on a high note.
Ali Al Maghribi (200-F-75) tallied 24 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Ittihad. Adil Al Juhani contributed 17 points in the victory. Chudney Gray answered with 30 points for Duhok. Qutaiba Al-Doori (198-F-80) had 19 points in the losing effort.

Ittihad: Vladislav Dragajlovic 28+21 boards, Ali Al Maghribi 24, Adil Al Juhani 17
Duhok: Chudney Gray 30, Qutaiba Al-Doori 19


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


Stats Leaders - 1A
Points Per Game
 Branko MILISAVLJEVIC
  Mega V.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 20.5
 1. Milisavljevi., Meg.20.5 
 2. Janjusevic, Crnok.18.8 
 3. Sinovec, Metalac18.2 
 4. Micevic, Sloboda17.6 
 5. Bozovic, Sloga17.4 
 6. Nikolic, Crvena Z.16.8 
 7. Bunic, Novi Sad16.6 
 8. Nedovic, Crvena Z.16.4 
 9. Kovacevic, Super.16.3 
 10. Majkic, Prolet.16.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Sava LESIC
  Crvena Z.
  (205-C/F-88)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Lesic, Crvena Z.10.9 
 2. Savovic, Hemofarm8.8 
 3. Markovic, FMP7.8 
 4. Ljubicic, Metalac7.5 
 5. Nikolic, Crvena Z.7.1 
 6. Lee, Radnicki7.0 
 7. Cantekin, Mega V.6.8 
 8. Cakarevic, Radnicki6.6 
 9. Majkic, Prolet.6.6 
 10. Djurovic, Crnokosa6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Marko LJUBICIC
  Metalac
  (197-F-87)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Ljubicic, Metalac6.4 
 2. Pavkovic, Hemofarm6.1 
 3. Zarkovic, Prolet.6.0 
 4. Vlahovic, Sloga5.1 
 5. Bakic, Crvena Z.4.9 
 6. Radivojevic, FMP4.9 
 7. Mitrovic, Beograd4.9 
 8. Milisavljevi., Meg.4.8 
 9. Covic, FMP4.6 
 10. Dundjerski, Beogr.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Slobodan DUNDJERSKI
  Beograd
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Dundjerski, Beograd2.9 
 2. Kuzeta, Novi Sad2.7 
 3. Gagovic, Prolet.2.3 
 4. Ljubicic, Metalac2.1 
 5. Mukanovic, Crnok.2.0 
 6. Marjanovic, Vojvo.2.0 
 7. Lee, Radnicki1.9 
 8. Bakic, Crvena Z.1.9 
 9. Kovacevic, Novi S.1.9 
 10. Jovic, Sloga1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Stefan BIRCEVIC
  Metalac
  (209-F/C-89)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Bircevic, Metalac1.3 
 2. Ilic, FMP1.2 
 3. Majkic, Prolet.1.1 
 4. Cantekin, Mega V.0.9 
 5. Marjanovic, Vojvo.0.9 
 6. Cakarevic, Radnicki0.8 
 7. Djekic, Mega V.0.8 
 8. Buric, Tamis0.8 
 9. Ljubojevic, Slobod.0.8 
 10. Lee, Radnicki0.8 


Finals: Partizan jumps to 2-0 against Hemofarm - by Eurobasket News
Finals, Game 2: Hemofarm - Partizan 83-89 (0-2)

Partizan made a break against Hemofarm tonight winning the game 83-89. The defending champion has 2-0 lead now in the Finals and they need one more win for the title. The first chance to make it Partizan will have at their home court on Wednesday.
The guests trailed by 9 points at the halftime before their 50-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Partizan outrebounded Hemofarm 31-20 including 22 on the defensive glass. American guard Curtis Jerrells (185-87, college: Baylor) scored 28 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the former international forward Dusan Kecman (197-77, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 7 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists during the contest. Four Partizan players scored in double figures. Partizan's coach Vlada Jovanovic used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Mladen Jeremic (196-88, agency: Interperformances) responded with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and power forward Milivoje Bozovic (210-85, agency: Beo Basket) scored 16 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field).

Top scorers:
Hemofarm: M.Jeremic 16+5reb+6ast, M.Bozovic 16+1ast, M.Sutalo 13+4reb, B.Krstovic 10+1reb, I.Maras 8+2reb+2ast, D.Andjusic 6+2ast
Partizan: C.Jerrells 28+6reb+6ast, J.Gist 12+2reb, J.Vesely 10+4reb, R.Katic 10+4reb+1ast, D.Milosavljevic 9+3reb+1ast, D.Kecman 7+5reb+9ast
gschID: 129187




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


Stats Leaders-LEB Silver
Points Per Game
 Matt WITT
  Clavijo
  (183-PG-84)
  Avg: 16.4
 1. Witt, Clavijo16.4 
 2. Barcelo, Plasencia15.7 
 3. Ramsdell, Avila15.4 
 4. O''Leary, Oviedo F.15.4 
 5. Paez, Lan M.15.0 
 6. Bratton, Lan M.14.9 
 7. Mortellaro, Lan M.14.8 
 8. Mesa, Clavijo14.7 
 9. Ratzsch, Oviedo F.14.7 
 10. Bivia, Mallorca14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ian O''LEARY
  Oviedo F.
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. O''Leary, Oviedo F.9.3 
 2. De Santana, Clavijo8.8 
 3. Chubrevich, Illesc.8.4 
 4. Mortellaro, Lan M.8.1 
 5. Mesa, Clavijo7.9 
 6. Adams, Coruna7.8 
 7. Ramsdell, Avila7.6 
 8. Larry, Regal F.7.1 
 9. Howard, Andorra6.9 
 10. Johnson, Andorra6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Matt WITT
  Clavijo
  (183-PG-84)
  Avg: 6
 1. Witt, Clavijo6.0 
 2. Uriz, Santurtzi5.0 
 3. Ibargutxi, Lan M.5.0 
 4. Lopez, Coruna4.6 
 5. Bivia, Mallorca3.7 
 6. Marco, ADT T.3.5 
 7. Pampin, Mallorca3.5 
 8. Machuca, Illescas3.4 
 9. Rufian, Promobys3.2 
 10. Casado, Santurtzi3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Jonathan BARCELO
  Plasencia
  (192-F/G-79)
  Avg: 2
 1. Barcelo, Plasencia2.0 
 2. Uriz, Santurtzi2.0 
 3. Adams, Coruna1.9 
 4. Bratton, Lan M.1.8 
 5. Smith, Guadalajara1.8 
 6. Witt, Clavijo1.7 
 7. Martinez, Plasencia1.7 
 8. Guirao, ADT T.1.6 
 9. Rueda, Plasencia1.5 
 10. Larry, Regal F.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Bismack BIYOMBO
  Illescas
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Biyombo, Illescas1.9 
 2. Todorovic, Prat J.1.4 
 3. De Santana, Clavijo1.3 
 4. Conde, Avila1.2 
 5. Cage, ADT Tarrago.1.0 
 6. Johnson, Andorra0.9 
 7. Green, Mallorca0.9 
 8. O''Leary, Oviedo F.0.9 
 9. Hampl, Santurtzi0.9 
 10. Chubrevich, Illes.0.9 


Velickovic, Tucker, Vidal and Prigioni will leave Real Madrid - by Eurobasket News
Real Madrid will make some big changes in the roster. The team will reportedly part ways with Novica Velickovic (205-F-86), Sergi Vidal (198-F/G-81), Clay Tucker (195-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) and Pablo Prigioni (191-G-77).
Novica Velickovic joined Real back in 2009/10 season. Last season the Serbian forward averaged 3.4 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in Euroleague. In ACB his stats read 3.0 points and 2.6 rebounds. Novica Velickovic played for Serbia at 2010 World Championship. The forward averaged 11.3 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game in Turkey.
Sergi Vidal signed the contract with Real back in 2009. He averaged 1.8 points and 1.2 rebounds per Euroleague game last season. Sergi Vidal also posted 1.5 points in ACB.
Pablo Prigioni also joined Real back in 2009. The Argentinean point guard tallied 5.4 points, 3.4 assists and 2.6 rebounds in Euroleague past season. In ACB his stats came up to 5.8 points, 3.7 assists and 2.6 rebounds. Pablo Prigioni played for Argentina at 2010 World Championship. He delivered 7.4 points, 6.4 assists, 2.0 steals and 2.7 rebounds per game in Turkey.
Clay Tucker moved to Real Madrid at the start of the season. The guard accumulated 8.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game in Euroleague. In ACB the US player accounted for 8.5 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.7 assists per appearance.


Fotis Katsikaris extends deal with Bizkaia Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Bizkaia Bilbao secured the services of Fotis Katsikaris (agency: FCM ) for three more years. The Greek specialist took over Bilbao in January 2010. He led the team into EuroCup semifinals in 2010 and ACB Finals this season. Previously Fotis Katsikaris (agency: FCM ) worked with AEK Athens, Dynamo Saint Petersburg, Pamesa Valencia and Aris Thessaloniki.



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


Swedish U18 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Tobias Borg
Borg
Marcus Eriksson
Eriksson
Fredrik Andersson
Andersson
Nicholas Spires
Spires
Filip Asante
Asante
#e#5
4 Filip Asante 184-G-93 Fryshuset Sweden
5 Tobias Borg 183-G-93 Sodertalje Sweden
6 Niklas Larsson 196-G/F-94 Solna Branten Sweden
7 Kevin Tumba 192-G M.Hainaut Belgium
8 Marcus Eriksson 196-G/F-93 Manresa Spain
9 Fredrik Andersson 197-G/F-93 Boras Sweden
10 Adrian Thorangen 195-G-93 Sanda Sweden
11 Hannes Erhardt 203-F/C-94 Malbas Sweden
12 Jesper Eliasson 199-F-94
13 Nicholas Spires 210-C/F-94 Regal Barca Spain
14 Sebastian Schuszler 204-F/C-94 Blackeberg Sweden
15 Hayzer Ismaili F-94



Sweden U18 remains undefeated in Solna - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18 remains undefeated in Solna as the team won all four games in the Robin Round. After the first three victories, the hosts added 71:62 win over Denmark U18.
Sweden opened the game with 22-15 and added massive 25-14 in the second frame. Denmark looked better in the third period and won it 22-7 to reduce to the gap to 3 points before the final stanza. Sweden however won the last period 17-11 to seal the fourth win. Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) paced all the winners with 12 points and Nicholas Spires (210-C/F-94) netted 11. Kevin Larsen (201-F-93) replied with 16 points and 11 rebounds in the losing effort, while Frederik Rungby (198-F-93) had 14 points and 8 boards.
Both teams had 43% from the field. Denmark made more rebounds 48 versus 40, while Sweden handed out 16 assists versus 9.
On June 5th Sweden will face Iceland U18 in the Final.


Swedish U16 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
4 Filip Kovacek 185-G-95
5 Ludvig Hakansson 187-G-96
6 David Terins 192-G-95 Malbas Sweden
7 Walter Lindstrom G-95
8 Gabriel Adersteg 194-G/F-95
9 Oskar Granat 177-G-95
10 Daniel Johansson 197-F-95
11 Axel Toft 196-F-95
12 Lukas Bergang 210-C/F-95
13 Eduardo Mondolfi 196-F-95
14 Dzenis Sogolj 202-F-95
15 Alexander Larsson 204-C/F-95



Sweden U16 lost one game and will be out of Final - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16 lost one game and will be out of Final. Sweden U16 that won the first three games in the group of the Nordic Cup, could not make it to the Final. Finland U16 destroyed Sweden U16 to take their spot in the Final of Nordic Cup. Three teams finished with 3-1 record on top, while Finland and Iceland advanced to the big Final.
On June 3rd Sweden rolled over Iceland 80:70. The latter enjoyed 21-19 after the first 10 minutes, but not more than that. The hosts of the tournament won the second frame 22-16 and added 23-15 in the second frame. Ludvig Hakansson (187-G-96) paced all the winners with 25 points and Eduardo Mondolfi (196-F-95) netted 13. Maciej Baginski (190-G-95) replied with 23 points and 9 rebounds in the losing effort.


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


ASU hold off Jalaa to earn fifth place in Manila - by Eurobasket News
ASU - Jalaa 72:65

ASU clinched the fifth position at Asia Club Championship. The Jordanian team prevailed against Jalaa of Syria to wrap up their campaign. Enver Soobzokov (198-G/F-78, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) stepped up with 19 points to pace ASU.
Jalaa looked dominant in the first half. The Syrian team earned a 17:11 lead after ten minutes of action. ASU got within three points 21:18 early in the second quarter but Jalaa quickly boosted the lead. They went on an 11:0 run and eventually piled up a 38:24 halftime buffer. Jalaa maintained the margin for some time however ASU crowned the quarter with five points in a row to get as close as 5 points with one quarter to go. ASU used a 16:2 run midway through the fourth frame to pull in front 62:55. Enver Soobzokov gave ASU a 71:62 lead with just over a minute to go and the Jordanian powerhouse rolled to the victory at the end. Jameel Watkins (211-C/F-77, college: Georgetown) nailed 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, while Wesam Al-Sous (183-G-83) had 15 points in the victory. Jamaal Miller (187-G-82, agency: Court Side, college: Green River CC) replied with 16 points for Jalaa. Marcelle Yaqqub (206-C-77) provided 15 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

ASU: Enver Soobzokov 19, Jameel Watkins 16, Wesam Al-Sous 15
Jalaa: Jamaal Miller 16, Marcelle Yaqqub 15+10 boards


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


Lin pulls out of Taiwan's EABC roster - by Chris Wang
Forward Lin Chih-Chieh (192-F/G-82) will sit out the East Asian Basketball Championship after his grandmother passed away last week, according to Taiwan NT head coach Chou Jun-san.

Chou plans to replace Lin with Bank of Taiwan guard Chen Shun-Hsiang (190-F-85) but does not know whether the request of substitution would be granted by FIBA Asia, given that the 12-man roster had been submitted for the tourney which starts June 10 in Nanjing, China.

Lin, who was expected to be the top two scorers of the Taiwan NT along with Chen Hsin-an, was not in good condition to play in the qualifying tournament of the FIBA Asia Championship

If the request is denied by FIBA Asia, Chou said, Taiwan NT will enter the tourney with 11 players.


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


Utah Jazz are keeping quiet about meeting with Enes Kanter - by Eurobasket News
Enes Kanter (205-C-92) met and worked out with the Utah Jazz on Friday in Chicago at ATTACK Athletics.

The Jazz and the Kanter camp are keeping everything tight-lipped for some reason. This leaves a lot of speculation out there as to why they want to keep things so quiet.

'No complaints,' said Max Ergul, Kanter's agent, who didn't comment much more than that.

The Jazz are also keeping quiet about the meeting and workout with Kanter today in Chicago.

On hand representing the Jazz were GM Kevin O'Connor, head coach Tyrone Corbin and VP of Player Personnel Walt Perrin.

Initially, Kanter skipped his interview with the Jazz in Chicago at the NBA Draft Combine a few weeks ago. But after the combine, Kanter scheduled this meeting and workout with the Jazz in Chicago as his first meeting and workout with any team.

It appears that Kanter finally warmed up to the idea of possibly playing in Utah. And if the Jazz weren't seriously interested in Kanter, they wouldn't have made the trip to Chicago for a private session with him.

After today's meeting and workout, are the Jazz ready to take Kanter at No. 3 if he is available? We'll see what happens between now and the draft with the remaining Jazz workouts and Kanter's remaining meetings and workouts.

Kanter will meet with the Toronto Raptors on Monday (June 6) in Chicago, followed by the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday (June 7) in Cleveland, and then finally the Minnesota Timberwolves in Minnesota on June 16.

Courtesy of http://thehoopsreport.com

Fenerbahce Ulker starts Turkish playoffs with a dominant 81-59 win over Cafe Crown - by Pervin Elgin
In the Beko Basketball League playoff finals Fenerbahce Ulker Basketball Team blew Galatasaray Cafe Crown off the floor and won their first match with 81-59. Ulker dominated in all four periods and is now leading the best of seven series 1-0.

Fenerbahce Ulker Basketball Team found the first score under the basket with Oguz Savas, but with three fouls in two minutes, the Ulker center quickly found himself replaced by Kaya Peker. Off-line scores of Omer Onan and Roko Ukic secured a 14-6 lead for the hosts within the first five minutes of playing time. Peker did a great job rebounding both offensive and defensively, and Ulker ended the first period with a 21-16 lead.

In the beginning of the second period, both teams were unable to convert their attacks into scores. Marko Tomas and Sean May ended the silence and brought the score to 24-18 after 12 minutes played. Sean May and Sarunas Jasikevicius increased the difference in scores to ten points with 14 minutes on the clock: 28-18. By Marko Tomas and Omer Onan found baskets from behind the three point line, and with scores by Onan and Lavrinovic at the end of the section, Ulker went to the locker room with an advantage of 44 - 33.

In the third period quick scores were found by Oguz Savas and Roko Ukic after the loss the ball by the opponents. With 23 minutes played the difference in scores was raised to 14 (49-35). After the fourth foul of Oguz Savas, he was taken to the left side. Emir Preldzics three point hits raised the difference to 17 (52-35). After the break the guest team took, Sean May profited from another forced lost ball again and raised the score up to 54-35. Roko Ukic and Omer Onan's baskets increased the gap to 20 points: 60-40. With the last basket of Kaya Peker, Ulker completed the third period with a 67-49 lead.

The final period started with mutual baskets of Josh Shipp and Darjus Lavrinovic. After that, the pace dropped., until Darjus Lavrinovic scores from within the painted area, keeping the the difference in scores to 18 (71-53). After another break by Galatasaray Cafe Crown a three-point attempt by Caner Topaloglu failed and Ulker was quick to profit. Scores by Marko Tomas and Oguz Savas increased the gap to 20 points again: 78-55 with 38 minutes on the clock. In the final two minutes Fenerbahce Ulker protected their advantage, finishing the game with a clear 81-59 victory.


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


Reggie Freeman completse his degree this summer after more than 10 years of pro ball - by David Edole
AUSTIN --In 1997, Reggie Freeman (198-G/F-75, college: Texas) left the University of Texas without having earned a degree. At the time, he thought he was bound for the NBA. Years later, he realized he'd inadvertently signed on for an extra-long study-abroad program.

For more than a decade, in 11 countries on three continents, Freeman soaked up enough different pieces of culture to fill an anthropology curriculum. He marveled at the geology of Venezuela, experienced the volatility of the Greek economy and witnessed the reorganization of Yugoslavia.

Freeman learned to speak decent Serbian, passable Lithuanian and limited Turkish, but not Italian, he said, because in Italy they all want to speak English.

So when he found himself back at UT last year, the old man in a physical science classroom full of teenagers, he didn't feel out of place. Even after all that time, he'd never really stopped being a student.

When I look at myself in the mirror, I know I'm 35, 36 years old, Freeman said. But I didn't feel that way walking across campus.

That might be because he's far from the only aging basketball player toting a backpack around UT lately. This summer, Freeman, Kris Clack, Chico Vazquez and Maurice Evans four men in or approaching their mid-thirties all are finally graduating more than 10 years after their hoops days with the Longhorns ended.

Vazquez, who's held down jobs in construction and with the state real estate commission since helping UT win a Big 12 title in 1999, said the scholastic reunion came together about a year ago. Terrence Rencher, who starred for the Longhorns from 1992-95, came back to graduate from UT, and turned that into a college coaching job.

Vazquez and Clack both coach AAU teams, but couldn't get high school or college positions without degrees. Rencher's story, as well as the knowledge that younger former players such as Kevin Durant and D.J. Augustin continued to attend classes in the summer, prompted them to act on what they'd been putting off for years.

It was always, I'll get it, I'll get it,' Vazquez said. I finally sat down and figured out what I had to do to get it. And then it was, This is something I can do right now.'

By then, Freeman who never made the NBA but had his jersey retired in Serbia had completed his basketball career and returned to school in Austin. Evans, at 32 the youngest of the quartet and the only one to stick in the NBA, also was returning in the offseason to attend classes.

Suddenly, after searching for a competitive outlet for years, Vazquez had a reason to push himself again.

Trying to find my own way, without always looking for accolades, it was tough, Vazquez said. When this became a competition, it was fun. It was like, I'm going to beat you (to graduation).'

Of course, there were some awkward moments. Vazquez said his classmates looked at him in disbelief when he said he was working on Sept. 11, 2001 (One girl said, I was 8.' How crazy is that? Vazquez said). But as Freeman noted, it was satisfying to be in class because they wanted to be, and not because they had to be to stay eligible.

All four ex-players will officially complete their degree requirements this summer, but Freeman and Vazquez both participated in commencement ceremonies last week. Vazquez said when he walked across the stage, he thought of his mother, who died two years ago.

That was one of her dreams, he said. I was just glad I finally made it come true.

Mike Finger: Former Horns get first degrees
By Mike Finger / mfinger@express-news.net

*****************************************************
  UBA   


The UBA expands to Ohio (North and South) - by UBA media

Expansion Team to Join Universal Basketball Association for the 2011-2012 Season
Atlanta, Georgia (Monday, June 5, 2011)

The Universal Basketball Association (UBA) has added the expansion of 2 Ohio Divisions for its upcoming season of play, bringing the total number of teams on its roster to 22 for 2011-2012. The league, which is entering its third year of operation, will be its most exciting.

With the addition of Ohio (North and South), we become a stronger unit, UBA ownership group (Trinity Group) stated. We will have additional team announcements for the 2011-2012 seasons.

The Ohio North was purchased by Fords Kings LLC. The Ohio North will consist of the reigning Eastern Conference Southeast Hoopstars, Ohio Racers, Buckeye Blazers, Midwest Magic and the Cleveland Rams. The Division will play its home games at Lutheran High School East.

The Ohio South was purchased by Floyd Brewer Inc. The Ohio South will consist of the Cincinnati Slam, Queen City Gambler, Sharonville Flight, Seven Hills Fury and Northern Kentucky Swish. The Division will play their home games at The Sphere in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The UBA has promoted Travis McAvene Division chairman of Ohio. Not only will McAvene run the Ohio Division he will also coach the Cincinnati Slam.

'Its a great honor to be named chairman for this Division', said McAvene. Ohio has a bad name for basketball due to other minor leagues. We just want to give these kids a chance to make it to the next level.

UBA Ohio pre-draft tryouts will be as followed.
Who: UBA (North)
When: August 20-21, 2011
Where: Zelma Waston George Rec Center
For More information please contact Charles Nickens.
Email: mvp_cuts216@yahoo.com

Who: UBA (South)
When: August 26, 2011 (11:00am-6:00pm)
Where: The Sphere
For More information please contact Travis McAvene
Email: ncaad1bound@yahoo.com




Akpele Turns Down Overseas for Disciples - by UBA media
David Walls Reports:
Monday: June 6, 2011

George Akpele, a 6-foot-10, 265-pound power forward originally from the Nigeria, turned down an offer to play professionally in Europe in order to play for the GIE Morrow Disciples (UBA).

Akpele turn down Luxemburg Saturday and will join the Disciples in the fall for the new era of the UBA.

'Its my dream to play overseas', said Akpele. It was very hard to turn down the offer but after talking to my family we feel it's the best move for me to sharpen my skill in the states while I'm still young.

Akpele loves the thought of playing alongside experienced overseas players (Jermaine Barnes (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Atlanta Christian)) who will help him adjust.

Akpele averaged 10.3 points and 10.8 rebounds in 35 games to make the Usbasket.com All-UBA Import Team.

The Disciples have produced 24 out of the 43 overseas players (from the UBA), including Chris Miller-Williams (6'6''-F/G-87, college: W.Georgia), who recently signed with Iceland. So its easy to see why Akpele wants to be with the Disciples.

'Well I want to increase my stock', said Akpele. I feel like I have more work to do. I want to be great not just average.

Reigning MVP Jermaine Barnes also turned down several overseas offers to return to the Disciples for the 2011-2012 season. 'Helping kids like George makes me want to stay', said Barnes. He has the ability to become the Shaq of the UBA.

'To have the chance to play with guys like Jermaine Barnes and Jerone Dodd (6'8''-C-79, college: Morehouse) is what I need to play on the next level', said Akpele. There are thing I want out of my career like making the Nigerian National Team and playing for good money overseas. Right now I'm not ready, but I will be.

The Disciples have received calls from 5 of their top players. Mychal Kearse (6'5''-G-83, college: Mt.St.Mary's) (Romania-signed), Chris Miller-Williams (Iceland-Signed), Jermaine Dailey (6'8''-F-86, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Ill.-Chicago) (Taiwan), Lorenzo Davis (6'10''-C-82, college: Mountain St.) (Denmark), Jermaine Barnes (France, Romania-Turned Down), George Akpele (Luxemburg-Turned Down)

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


Standings - Metropolitan League
Metropolitan Standings
 1. Larranaga 10-4 
 2. Nacional 10-4 
 3. Tabare 9-5 
 4. Urunday Univ. 9-5 
 5. Atenas 7-6 
 6. Goes 7-7 
 7. Capitol 7-7 
 8. Yale 5-9 
 9. 25 de Agosto 3-10 
 10. Verdirrojo 2-12 


Three leaders for the Metro League - by Hector Lopez
Tabare beat Larranaga 66-60 and now both teams and Nacional are sharing the leadership for the Metro league with a 10/4 record. Six teams will advance to the second stage for two promotions to play the Uruguayan Leagu 2012. The last results were:
Tabare 66 - Mathias Calfani (202-C-92) 19 points 12 rebounds 3 blocks, Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles) 10 points 12 rebounds 2 blocks
Larranaga - Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) 17 points 9 rebounds 2 blocks
- - -
Atenas 82 - Quentin Smith (205-C-77, college: Mississippi St.) 31 points 12 rebounds 2 blocks
Verdirrojo 74 - Diego Garcia (183-G-92) 20 points 12 rebounds 4 assists

*****************************************************
  VENEZUELA   


Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
 1. Cocodrilos 34-9 
 2. Marinos 32-12 
 3. Trotamundos 31-13 
 4. Bucaneros 25-20 
 5. Guaiqueries 23-21 
 6. Gigantes 22-22 
 7. Toros 17-27 
 8. Panteras 17-27 
 9. Guaros 13-30 
 10. Gaiteros 6-38 




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

Women News

*****************************************************
  BELGIUM - Women  


Belgium hands 70-63 loss to Romania - by Eurobasket News
BELGIUM - ROMANIA 70-63

Belgium was too strong for Romania 70-63 celebrating the first victory in Taranto. It means that Belgium improved to 1-1 in Group B, while Romania dropped to 1-2 (EuroBasket 2011 AQT). Except of the first quarter which belonged to Romania, Belgium was a better team today. They made 18-12 in the second and 20-14 in Q3. In the last ten minutes Belgium managed to keep its lead and to take the first win at this tournament. Emma Meesseman (188-C-93) came up with double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Emmanuelle Mayombo (170-G-92, agency: LBM Management) added 13 pts. Noemie Mayombo (171-G-91, agency: LBM Management) followed with 10 points in this win. Maria Pascalau (193-C-82) (6 rebs) and Gabriela Marginean (185-F-87, college: Drexel) netted 14 points each in defeat. Ancuta Stoenescu (171-G-80, agency: Data Plus Group) stopped to 12 pts.
Belgium will meet Italy tomorrow, while Romania will have a day off.

Belgium: Emma Meesseman 20+11 boards, Emmanuelle Mayombo 13, Noemie Mayombo 10
Romania: Maria Pascalau 14+6 boards, Gabriela Marginean 14, Ancuta Stoenescu 12

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


Brazil overcome USA in scrimmage in Orlando - by Eurobasket News
USA U19 - Brazil U19 61:64

Brazil U19 selection celebrated the victory against their US counterparts in test game in Orlando, Florida. Damiris Dantas do Amaral (192-C-92) stepped up with 25 points to pace Latin American side.
The USA led by a single point 11:10 after ten minutes but could not keep up. Brazil increased the tempo in the second frame. The visitors surged ahead for a 30:28 halftime lead. Brazil dominated on the boards and accumulated a 46:40 lead at the final break. The hosts cut the deficit at just two points 60:62 late in regulation. Stefanie Dolson (195-C-92) dragged the USA within one 61:62 but Brazil managed to prevail in the dying seconds sealing a tough win at the end. Tassia de Souza (178-G-92) accounted for 13 points, while Vanessa Goncalves added 6 points in the victory. The teams are scheduled to meet tomorrow.


*****************************************************
  CANADA - Women  


Canadian U16 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Audrey-Ann Caron-Goudreau 186-F
Khanleann Caron-Goudreau 186-F
Saicha Grant-Allen 193-F
Hannah Jardine 183-F
Alison Keough 183-C
Anmol Mattu 160-PG
Kia Nurse 180-PG
Kolbie Orum 188-F
Emily Potter 193-C
Cheyanne Roger 188-C
Eternati Willock 188-F
Aimee Wilson 188-F
Emma Wolfram 193-C
Hilary Hanaka 175-G

Carly Clarke Head Coach UPEI Canada
Agnes Borg Assistant
Andre Desjardins Assistant


*****************************************************
  DENMARK - Women  


Denmark U18 to play for the third place in Solna - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U18 destroyed Iceland U18 93:45 in Day 3. An easy start allowed the winners to take 20-7 after the first 10 minutes of the game. Moreover they added 31-16 in the second frame to enjoy 51:23 halftime advantage. Denmark also won the third and the last periods to seal the victory. Julie Ravn (174-G-93) stepped up with 18 points and Ida Klussman as well as Anna Gylling Seilund scored 12 each. Ina Maria Einarsdottir replied with 10 points for the Icelandic side.
In Day 4 Sweden edged Denmark 80:66. The game was not that easy for the hosts that trailed 13-16 after the first 10 minutes. The second quarter was decisive in the game as Sweden erupted with 28-12 in it and never looked behind after. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) notched 17 points to lead the charge, while Josefin Vesterberg (187-F-93) posted 12. Maria Jespersen (179-F/G-94) ended up with 22 points in the losing effort.


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


Stats Leaders Div.A (Women)
Points Per Game
 Doneeka HODGES
  USA
  (175-G-82)
  Avg: 19.5
 1. Hodges, BUL19.5 
 2. Bar, GER17.3 
 3. Breitreiner, GER16.7 
 4. Marginean, ROM15.7 
 5. Milovanovic, SRB15.0 
 6. Tuukkanen, FIN15.0 
 7. Fegyverneky, HUN14.7 
 8. Meesseman, BEL14.0 
 9. Beld, NED14.0 
 10. Pascalau, ROM12.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Romy BAR
  GER
  (189-F-87)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Bar, GER10.3 
 2. Ress, ITA9.5 
 3. Meesseman, BEL9.5 
 4. Masciadri, ITA9.0 
 5. Tuukkanen, FIN8.0 
 6. Hendrickx, BEL7.5 
 7. Szecsi, HUN7.3 
 8. Maksimovic, SRB7.0 
 9. Richter, GER6.0 
 10. Austmann, GER6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Katalin HONTI
  HUN
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. Honti, HUN4.3 
 2. Zara, ITA3.5 
 3. Zlatanova, BUL3.0 
 4. Fegyverneky, HUN3.0 
 5. Richter, GER2.7 
 6. Pop, ROM2.7 
 7. Bar, GER2.7 
 8. Dubuc, BEL2.5 
 9. Sottana, ITA2.5 
 10. Dimitrova, BUL2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Romy BAR
  GER
  (189-F-87)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Bar, GER3.3 
 2. Honti, HUN3.0 
 3. Szecsi, HUN2.7 
 4. Peteva, BUL2.5 
 5. Knezevic, SRB2.5 
 6. Breitreiner, GER2.3 
 7. Stoenescu, ROM2.0 
 8. Krivacevic, HUN2.0 
 9. Marginean, ROM2.0 
 10. Delaere, BEL2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Gabriela MARGINEAN
  ROM
  (185-F-87)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Marginean, ROM1.3 
 2. Vajda, HUN1.3 
 3. Alyoshkina, UKR1.0 
 4. Austmann, GER1.0 
 5. Halman, NED1.0 
 6. Pascalau, ROM0.7 
 7. Tuukkanen, FIN0.7 
 8. Richter, GER0.7 
 9. Pavel, ROM0.7 
 10. Khomenchuk, UKR0.5 


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. Hungary3-0
2. Holland1-1
3. Bulgaria1-1
4. Finland1-2
5. Ukraine0-2
Group Qualif. Gr.B
1. Germany2-1
2. Italy1-1
3. Serbia1-1
4. Belgium1-1
5. Romania1-2


Additional Qualifying Tournament: Day Three recap - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Hungary - Ukraine 68-56
Hungary registered third straight win in Sopron. The host of the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament (Group A) was better than Ukraine 68-56 for perfect 3-0 record. On the other side, Ukraine dropped to 0-2. Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) shined for the winners with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Katalin Honti (175-G-87) scored 14 pts and Dora Horti (195-C-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) added two less. In defeat, Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) had 16 points and 9 boards. Maryna Sazonenko (175-G-86, college: Oregon St.) stopped to 12 pts in this game. Third quarter was the crucial one tonight. The hosts had plus 6 at the halftime and jumped to 15-point lead with 10:00 to go. It was too much for Ukraine, who faced with the second loss at this tournament.
Hungary will meet Bulgaria tomorrow, while Ukraine will play against Holland.

Holland - Finland 83-80
Holland registered first victory in Sopron. They outsmarted Finland 83-80 for 1-1 record in Group A (EuroBasket 2011 AQT). On the other side, Finland slipped to 1-2 despite great last period tonight (10-20). Holland destroyed their rivals in the second and third quarter (22-12, 29-20), what was too much for Finland at the end. Myrthe Beld (183-G-89) stepped up with 21 points in victory and Clara Van der Hoek (187-F-90) added 15 pts, plus 6 rebounds. Fieke Ligthart (184-F/C-90) and Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, college: Cal-Irvine) (5 as) netted 12 and 10 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Taru Tuukkanen (190-C-77, college: Xavier) shined with 22 points and 7 rebounds. Heta Korpivaara (187-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall), Tina Sten (189-G/F-85, college: St.John's) and Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, college: Lamar) scored 14 pts each.
Holland will meet Ukraine tomorrow, while Finland will have a day off.



Group B
Germany - Italy 78-57
Germany cruised past Italy 78-57 to register the second win in Taranto. Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) exploded for Germany tonight with 31 points and 5 rebounds. She reached valuation 25 and was the MVP of this meeting. Romy Bar (189-F-87, agency: LBM Management) had 21 points and 8 rebounds, while Lisa Koop (197-C-85, college: Winthrop) added 10 pts and 7 rebs. The home squad got 12 points and 12 boards from Raffaella Masciadri (185-F-80). Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) followed her with 11 pts. Germany won all four quarters in this meeting and Italy had no chance. Quarters: 22-21, 20-12, 16-10, 20-14.
Germany will play against Serbia in Day Four (tomorrow). Italy will take on Belgium.

Belgium - Romania 70-63
Belgium was too strong for Romania 70-63 celebrating the first victory in Taranto. It means that Belgium improved to 1-1 in Group B, while Romania dropped to 1-2 (EuroBasket 2011 AQT). Except of the first quarter which belonged to Romania, Belgium was a better team today. They made 18-12 in the second and 20-14 in Q3. In the last ten minutes Belgium managed to keep its lead and to take the first win at this tournament. Emma Meesseman (188-C-93) came up with double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Emmanuelle Mayombo (170-G-92, agency: LBM Management) added 13 pts. Noemie Mayombo (171-G-91, agency: LBM Management) followed with 10 points in this win. Maria Pascalau (193-C-82) (6 rebs) and Gabriela Marginean (185-F-87, college: Drexel) netted 14 points each in defeat. Ancuta Stoenescu (171-G-80, agency: Data Plus Group) stopped to 12 pts.
Belgium will meet Italy tomorrow, while Romania will have a day off.

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  FINLAND - Women  


Holland beats Finland for the first win in Sopron - by Eurobasket News
HOLLAND - FINLAND 83-80

Holland registered first victory in Sopron. They outsmarted Finland 83-80 for 1-1 record in Group A (EuroBasket 2011 AQT). On the other side, Finland slipped to 1-2 despite great last period tonight (10-20). Holland destroyed their rivals in the second and third quarter (22-12, 29-20), what was too much for Finland at the end. Myrthe Beld (183-G-89) stepped up with 21 points in victory and Clara Van der Hoek (187-F-90) added 15 pts, plus 6 rebounds. Fieke Ligthart (184-F/C-90) and Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, college: Cal-Irvine) (5 as) netted 12 and 10 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Taru Tuukkanen (190-C-77, college: Xavier) shined with 22 points and 7 rebounds. Heta Korpivaara (187-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall), Tina Sten (189-G/F-85, college: St.John's) and Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, college: Lamar) scored 14 pts each.
Holland will meet Ukraine tomorrow, while Finland will have a day off.

Holland: Myrthe Beld 21, Clara Van der Hoek 15+6 boards, Fieke Ligthart 12, Naomi Halman 12+5 as
Finland: Taru Tuukkanen 22+7 boards, Heta Korpivaara 14, Tina Sten 14, Dionne Pounds 14

Finland U18 makes it to the Final - by Eurobasket News
Finland U18 makes it to the Final of the International tournament in Solna. Finland finished the group with 3-1 record and will face Sweden tonight in the Final.
In Day 3 Sweden U18 smashed Finland U18 72:42. An easy start allowed them to take 22-12 in the opening quarter and then enjoy 36-17 at the halftime. Sweden added 20-4 in the third period, while Finland finished the game with 21-16. Abigail Asoro (177-F-93) paced all the winners with 19 points and 8 board, while Ulrica Holmqvist collected 16 points and 10 rebounds. Annika Holopainen (186-F/C-93) delivered 10 points in defeat that was the only result with the double figures in the team.
In Day 4 Finland stun Norway 89:45 winning all the quarters in the game. The favorites opened the game with 28-12 and added another massive 31-11 in the second frame. In the second half Finland produced 16-13 in the third quarter and 14-9 in the last stanza. Annika Holopainen paced all the winners with 22 points, while Emmi Leino (179-F-94) netted 14. Tennaz Javid (G) and Stine Austgulen (177-G-94) scored 8 points each in defeat.


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  GERMANY - Women  


Anne Breitreiner leads Germany to 78-57 win against Italy - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket 2011 AQT: GERMANY - ITALY 78-57

Germany cruised past Italy 78-57 to register the second win in Taranto. Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) exploded for Germany tonight with 31 points and 5 rebounds. She reached valuation 25 and was the MVP of this meeting. Romy Bar (189-F-87, agency: LBM Management) had 21 points and 8 rebounds, while Lisa Koop (197-C-85, college: Winthrop) added 10 pts and 7 rebs. The home squad got 12 points and 12 boards from Raffaella Masciadri (185-F-80). Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) followed her with 11 pts. Germany won all four quarters in this meeting and Italy had no chance. Quarters: 22-21, 20-12, 16-10, 20-14.
Germany will play against Serbia in Day Four (tomorrow). Italy will take on Belgium.

Germany: Anne Breitreiner 31+5 boards, Romy Bar 21+8 boards, Lisa Koop 10+7 boards
Italy: Raffaella Masciadri 12+12 boards, Simona Ballardini 11

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  HOLLAND - Women  


Holland beats Finland for the first win in Sopron - by Eurobasket News
HOLLAND - FINLAND 83-80

Holland registered first victory in Sopron. They outsmarted Finland 83-80 for 1-1 record in Group A (EuroBasket 2011 AQT). On the other side, Finland slipped to 1-2 despite great last period tonight (10-20). Holland destroyed their rivals in the second and third quarter (22-12, 29-20), what was too much for Finland at the end. Myrthe Beld (183-G-89) stepped up with 21 points in victory and Clara Van der Hoek (187-F-90) added 15 pts, plus 6 rebounds. Fieke Ligthart (184-F/C-90) and Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, college: Cal-Irvine) (5 as) netted 12 and 10 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Taru Tuukkanen (190-C-77, college: Xavier) shined with 22 points and 7 rebounds. Heta Korpivaara (187-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall), Tina Sten (189-G/F-85, college: St.John's) and Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, college: Lamar) scored 14 pts each.
Holland will meet Ukraine tomorrow, while Finland will have a day off.

Holland: Myrthe Beld 21, Clara Van der Hoek 15+6 boards, Fieke Ligthart 12, Naomi Halman 12+5 as
Finland: Taru Tuukkanen 22+7 boards, Heta Korpivaara 14, Tina Sten 14, Dionne Pounds 14

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  HUNGARY - Women  


Hungary wins third straight game in Sopron - by Eurobasket News
HUNGARY - UKRAINE 68-56

Hungary registered third straight win in Sopron. The host of the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament (Group A) was better than Ukraine 68-56 for perfect 3-0 record. On the other side, Ukraine dropped to 0-2. Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) shined for the winners with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Katalin Honti (175-G-87) scored 14 pts and Dora Horti (195-C-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) added two less. In defeat, Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) had 16 points and 9 boards. Maryna Sazonenko (175-G-86, college: Oregon St.) stopped to 12 pts in this game. Third quarter was the crucial one tonight. The hosts had plus 6 at the halftime and jumped to 15-point lead with 10:00 to go. It was too much for Ukraine, who faced with the second loss at this tournament.
Hungary will meet Bulgaria tomorrow, while Ukraine will play against Holland.

Hungary: Zsofia Fegyverneky 19+5 boards+5 as, Katalin Honti 14+5 boards, Dora Horti 12+6 boards
Ukraine: Olena Zherzherunova 16+9 boards, Maryna Sazonenko 12

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  ICELAND - Women  


Iceland U18 selection remained winless at Nordic Cup - by Eurobasket News
Iceland U18 selection remained winless at Nordic Cup. The team lost all four games in the tournament.
Denmark U18 destroyed Iceland U18 93:45 in Day 3. An easy start allowed the winners to take 20-7 after the first 10 minutes of the game. Moreover they added 31-16 in the second frame to enjoy 51:23 halftime advantage. Denmark also won the third and the last periods to seal the victory. Julie Ravn (174-G-93) stepped up with 18 points and Ida Klussman as well as Anna Seilund (172-G-93) scored 12 each. Ina Maria Einarsdottir replied with 10 points for the Icelandic side.
Norway grabbed 64:60 win over Iceland U18 to finish fourth. Iceland started with 22-19 after the first quarter, but the game was tied before the players went to the lockers. Iceland again took the lead after the third period after 18-16 in it, but Norway finished the game with 16-10 and won the encounter. Stine Austgulen (177-G-94) top-scored for the winners with 28 points, while Sofie Gronhaug (F) scored 11. Margret Halfdanardottir replied with 16 points in the losing effort.


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  ITALY - Women  


Anne Breitreiner leads Germany to 78-57 win against Italy - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket 2011 AQT: GERMANY - ITALY 78-57

Germany cruised past Italy 78-57 to register the second win in Taranto. Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) exploded for Germany tonight with 31 points and 5 rebounds. She reached valuation 25 and was the MVP of this meeting. Romy Bar (189-F-87, agency: LBM Management) had 21 points and 8 rebounds, while Lisa Koop (197-C-85, college: Winthrop) added 10 pts and 7 rebs. The home squad got 12 points and 12 boards from Raffaella Masciadri (185-F-80). Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) followed her with 11 pts. Germany won all four quarters in this meeting and Italy had no chance. Quarters: 22-21, 20-12, 16-10, 20-14.
Germany will play against Serbia in Day Four (tomorrow). Italy will take on Belgium.

Germany: Anne Breitreiner 31+5 boards, Romy Bar 21+8 boards, Lisa Koop 10+7 boards
Italy: Raffaella Masciadri 12+12 boards, Simona Ballardini 11

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  LATVIA - Women  


Lithuania knock down Latvia in test game - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Latvia 88:68

Lithuania celebrated the first win in the exhibition series versus Latvia. The teams met at CIDO Arena in Panevezys and the hosts proved the strength. Ausra Bimbaite (179-G-82) stepped up with 19 points and 7 assists to pace Lithuania.
The hosts marked their ambitions early in the encounter. They knocked down 22 points in the first frame to take a 7-point advantage. Lithuania maintained the gap throughout the second term. They arrived at the interval up by 9 points 43:34. The third quarter did not change the complexion of the game. Lithuania looked the better side as they stretched the margin to as many as 16 points. Latvia never got back to life in the this one allowing Lithuania to cruise to the victory in the final frame. Sandra Linkeviciene (176-G-82) and Egle Sulciute (190-F-85) provided 13 points each for Lithuania. Gunta Basko (181-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Siena) answered with 16 points for Latvia. Elina Babkina (173-G-89, agency: LBM Management) and Aija Putnina (192-F/C-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) provided 10 points apiece in defeat.

Lithuania: Ausra Bimbaite 19, Sandra Linkeviciene 13, Egle Sulciute 13
Latvia: Gunta Basko 16, Elina Babkina 10, Aija Putnina 10



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  LITHUANIA - Women  


Lithuania knock down Latvia in test game - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Latvia 88:68

Lithuania celebrated the first win in the exhibition series versus Latvia. The teams met at CIDO Arena in Panevezys and the hosts proved the strength. Ausra Bimbaite (179-G-82) stepped up with 19 points and 7 assists to pace Lithuania.
The hosts marked their ambitions early in the encounter. They knocked down 22 points in the first frame to take a 7-point advantage. Lithuania maintained the gap throughout the second term. They arrived at the interval up by 9 points 43:34. The third quarter did not change the complexion of the game. Lithuania looked the better side as they stretched the margin to as many as 16 points. Latvia never got back to life in the this one allowing Lithuania to cruise to the victory in the final frame. Sandra Linkeviciene (176-G-82) and Egle Sulciute (190-F-85) provided 13 points each for Lithuania. Gunta Basko (181-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Siena) answered with 16 points for Latvia. Elina Babkina (173-G-89, agency: LBM Management) and Aija Putnina (192-F/C-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) provided 10 points apiece in defeat.

Lithuania: Ausra Bimbaite 19, Sandra Linkeviciene 13, Egle Sulciute 13
Latvia: Gunta Basko 16, Elina Babkina 10, Aija Putnina 10



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  NORWAY - Women  


Norway U18 celebrates the initial win in Sweden - by Eurobasket News
Norway U18 will play for the third place in the Nordic Cup against Denmark U18.
In Day 3 Norway grabbed 64:60 win over Iceland U18 to finish fourth. Iceland started with 22-19 after the first quarter, but the game was tied before the players went to the lockers. Iceland again took the lead after the third period after 18-16 in it, but Norway finished the game with 16-10 and won the encounter. Stine Austgulen (177-G-94) top-scored for the winners with 28 points, while Sofie Gronhaug (F) scored 11. Margret Halfdanardottir replied with 16 points in the losing effort.
In Day 4 Finland stun Norway 89:45 winning all the quarters in the game. The favorites opened the game with 28-12 and added another massive 31-11 in the second frame. In the second half Finland produced 16-13 in the third quarter and 14-9 in the last stanza. Annika Holopainen (186-F/C-93) paced all the winners with 22 points, while Emmi Leino (179-F-94) netted 14. Tennaz Javid and Stine Austgulen scored 8 points each in defeat.


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  POLAND - Women  


CCC Polkowice add Megan Frazee and slowed Carter - by Grzegorz Ozog
Megan Frazee (191-G/F-87, college: Liberty) will play in CCC Polkowice. 24-years-old American signed contract for season 2011/2012.

For the past two years she played in WNBA in San Antonio Silver Stars where she gained an average of 4.4 ppg and 2.5 rpg.

In season 2010/2011 she also plays in Turkey league in Botasspor Adana. She played in 27 games averaged 16.6 ppg, 8.1 rpg and 1.9 apg.

In connection with signing a contract with Frazze CCC Polkowice leaves Amisha Carter (188-F/C-82).

Actuall CCC Polkowice roster: Aktualna kadra CCC Polkowice: Sharnee Zoll , Megan Frazee , Agata Gajda, Evanthia Maltsi , Agnieszka Majewska,
Joanna Walich, Gintare Petronyte, Iva Perovanovic.

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  ROMANIA - Women  


Belgium hands 70-63 loss to Romania - by Eurobasket News
BELGIUM - ROMANIA 70-63

Belgium was too strong for Romania 70-63 celebrating the first victory in Taranto. It means that Belgium improved to 1-1 in Group B, while Romania dropped to 1-2 (EuroBasket 2011 AQT). Except of the first quarter which belonged to Romania, Belgium was a better team today. They made 18-12 in the second and 20-14 in Q3. In the last ten minutes Belgium managed to keep its lead and to take the first win at this tournament. Emma Meesseman (188-C-93) came up with double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Emmanuelle Mayombo (170-G-92, agency: LBM Management) added 13 pts. Noemie Mayombo (171-G-91, agency: LBM Management) followed with 10 points in this win. Maria Pascalau (193-C-82) (6 rebs) and Gabriela Marginean (185-F-87, college: Drexel) netted 14 points each in defeat. Ancuta Stoenescu (171-G-80, agency: Data Plus Group) stopped to 12 pts.
Belgium will meet Italy tomorrow, while Romania will have a day off.

Belgium: Emma Meesseman 20+11 boards, Emmanuelle Mayombo 13, Noemie Mayombo 10
Romania: Maria Pascalau 14+6 boards, Gabriela Marginean 14, Ancuta Stoenescu 12

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  SLOVENIA - Women  


Slovenia hands Sweden first loss - by Zeljko Zule
Slovenian handed Sweden its first loss in Group B of the EuroBasket Women 2011 Division B, 70-63. Teja Oblak (171-G-90) scored 13 of her 25 points in the final quarter and finished with 7 rebounds, Eva Komplet collected 23 points and 7 rebounds and Martina Dover and Teja Trebec both grabbed 7 rebounds. Slovenia played without its captain Maja Erkic (muscle injury) . Sweden was led by Louice Halvarsson and her 20 points and 9 rebounds and Frida Eldebrink and Elin Eldebrink added 10 points apiece.

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  SWEDEN - Women  


Sweden U18 wins the Robin Round at Nordic Cup - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18 wins the Robin Round at Nordic Cup as the host won four straight games. In all of them the favorites looked better than the opponents.
In Day 3 Sweden U18 smashed Finland U18 72:42. An easy start allowed them to take 22-12 in the opening quarter and then enjoy 36-17 at the halftime. Sweden added 20-4 in the third period, while Finland finished the game with 21-16. Abigail Asoro (177-F-93) paced all the winners with 19 points and 8 board, while Ulrika Holmqvist (184-C-93) collected 16 points and 10 rebounds. Annika Holopainen (186-F/C-93) delivered 10 points in defeat that was the only result with the double figures in the team.
In Day 4 Sweden edged Denmark 80:66. The game was not that easy for the hosts that trailed 13-16 after the first 10 minutes. The second quarter was decisive in the game as Sweden erupted with 28-12 in it and never looked behind after. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) notched 17 points to lead the charge, while Josefin Vesterberg (187-F-93) posted 12. Maria Jespersen (179-F/G-94) ended up with 22 points in the losing effort.


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  TAIWAN - Women  


Schedule of 2011 FIBA Asia Championship for Women released - by Chris Wang
FIBA Asia released the schedule of the 2011 FIBA Asia Championship for Women Sunday as Taiwan is scheduled to meet India in its first game of the biennial tourney, which will be played in Omura, Nagasaki, Japan from August 21-28.

Taiwan, one of six teams in the Level I, will play five games in the preliminary round. The schedule is listed as below:

Aug. 21 India
Aug. 22 Japan
Aug. 23 Lebanon
Aug. 24 China
Aug. 25 Korea

Level I (six teams): China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, India, Lebanon
Level II (six teams): Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Singapore

The tournament will adopt a round robin format in the preliminary round with top four teams in the Level I advancing to the cross-over semifinals on August 27.

According to FIBA Asia:
Omura, a castle town from where Catholic saint St. Marina de Omura hailed will play host to the 12 top women basketball teams in Asia from Aug 21-28, 2011. Six teams will form the Elite Level I, from where the champions will be decided.

The champions of the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women will earn an automatic entry to the 2012 London Olympics. The teams finishing second and third will earn the opportunity to represent FIBA Asia in the FIBA Olympic Qualifiers.

Six other teams will play in the Qualifying Level II with the top two attempting to earn promotion to next edition's Level I.


History of Taiwan women's NT in FIBA Asia Championship for Women - by Chris Wang
History of Taiwan women's NT in FIBA Asia Championship for Women

(Year, Host City, Ranking)
2009 Chennai, India 4th
2007 Incheon, Korea 4th
2005 Qinhuangdao, China 3rd
2004 Sendai, Japan 4th
2001 Bangkok, Thailand 4th
1999 Shizuoka, Japan 3rd
1997 Bangkok, Thailand 4th
1995 Shizuoka, Japan 4th
1994 Sendai, Japan 4th
1992 Seoul, Korea 4th
1990 Singapore 4th
1988 Hong Kong 3rd
1986 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 3rd

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  UKRAINE - Women  


UPBL Round 19: Dynamo edges Yuzhna Palmira by two points - by Eurobasket News
There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in UPBL.

Eighth-ranked Yuzhna Palmira (6-11) made lots of trouble for fourth ranked Dynamo (11-7) in Kyiv on Saturday. Dynamo managed to secure only two-point victory 64-62. However their fans expected much easier game. Yuzhna Palmira trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 25-16 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 62-64 at the end of the game. American swingman Shantel Ragin (178-87, college: Clayton St.) fired a double-double by scoring 26 points and 19 rebounds for the winners. The former international point guard Nataliya Silyanova (172-71) chipped in 10 points. International forward Tetyana Shchypakina (178-85) produced 20 points and 8 rebounds for lost side. Dynamo moved-up to third place. Yuzhna Palmira at the other side keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. Dynamo are looking forward to face Dnipro-DVUFK (#4) in Dnepropetrovsk in the next round. Yuzhna Palmira will play on the road against the league's leader Tim-Scuf (#1) in Kyiv and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Kyiv. First ranked Tim-Scuf faced 3rd placed Dnipro-DVUFK. Host Tim-Scuf (15-2) defeated guests from Dnepropetrovsk (10-7) 84-73. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Natalia Isachenko (183-79, agency: Promotex) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 25 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. Inna Faskhutdinova contributed with 16 points and 6 assists for the winners. American guard Kimberly Williams (168-74, college: De Paul, agency: Merit Sports) answered with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Dnipro-DVUFK. Dnipro-DVUFK's coach Vladimir Tkachenko rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Tim-Scuf have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 15-2 record. Defending champion Dnipro-DVUFK dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. They share it with Frankivsk. Tim-Scuf will play against Yuzhna Palmira (#8) in Odessa in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Dnipro-DVUFK will play on the road against Dynamo (#3) in Kyiv and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Luganski Last. (0-17) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 116-63 loss to fifth ranked Frankivsk (10-7) in Lugansk on Saturday evening. It was a great evening for Arina Markotenko who led her team to a victory scoring 31 points and 5 steals. Frankivsk's coach Yuriy Protsuk felt very confident using 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side Ksenia Kirichenko responded with 20 points and 5 rebounds. Frankivsk moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Dnipro-DVUFK. Loser Luganski Last. still closes the standings. Frankivsk will meet Donbas (#9) in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Luganski Last. will play against Politeh Basket in Lviv and hopes to get finally their first victory.

In the last two games of round 19 Politeh Basket defeated Donbas in Lviv 73-61. Kozachka smashed Orlan at home 94-68.


Luganski Last. - Frankivsk 63-116

Bottom-ranked Luganski Last. (0-17) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 116-63 loss to fifth ranked Frankivsk (10-7) in Lugansk on Saturday evening. The game without a history. Frankivsk led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Luganski Last.'s 30. Frankivsk forced 29 Luganski Last. turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Luganski Last.'s players. It was a great evening for international guard Arina Markotenko (170-89) who led her team to a victory scoring 31 points and 5 steals. Guard Mariya Dubas (182-84) helped adding 18 points and 7 assists. Frankivsk's coach Yuriy Protsuk felt very confident using 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side guard Ksenia Kirichenko (173-87) responded with 20 points and 5 rebounds and Olena Khotentseva scored 10 points and 9 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Frankivsk moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Dnipro-DVUFK. Loser Luganski Last. still closes the standings. Frankivsk will meet Donbas (#9) in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Luganski Last. will play against Politeh Basket in Lviv and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Frankivsk: A.Markotenko 31+2reb+2ast, M.Dubas 18+3reb+7ast, V.Pazyuk 16+6reb+4ast, M.Komarnyak 14+4reb, L.Sova 8+5reb+3ast, T.Gulyuk 7+1reb
Luganski Last.: K.Kirichenko 20+5reb, Z.Chuhriy 13+2reb+2ast, A.Drepina 10+7reb+2ast, O.Khotentseva 10+9reb, O.Bondar 4+3reb, K.Durova 2+8reb+1ast
gschID: 129039


Tim-Scuf - Dnipro-DVUFK 84-73

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Kyiv. First ranked Tim-Scuf faced 3rd placed Dnipro-DVUFK. Host Tim-Scuf (15-2) defeated guests from Dnepropetrovsk (10-7) 84-73. The game was mostly controlled by Tim-Scuf. Dnipro-DVUFK was better in fourth quarter 30-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Tim-Scuf players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Dnipro-DVUFK's players. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Natalia Isachenko (183-79, agency: Promotex) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 25 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. The former international forward Inna Faskhutdinova (182-84) contributed with 16 points and 6 assists for the winners. American guard Kimberly Williams (168-74, college: De Paul, agency: Merit Sports) answered with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and forward Anna Domoratska (178-86) added 18 points and 11 rebounds in the effort for Dnipro-DVUFK. Dnipro-DVUFK's coach Vladimir Tkachenko rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Tim-Scuf have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 15-2 record. Defending champion Dnipro-DVUFK dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. They share it with Frankivsk. Tim-Scuf will play against Yuzhna Palmira (#8) in Odessa in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Dnipro-DVUFK will play on the road against Dynamo (#3) in Kyiv and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Tim-Scuf: N.Isachenko 25+13reb+4ast, I.Faskhutdinova 16+3reb+6ast, K.Matsko 14+9reb+2ast, Y.Berezinets 12+1reb+2ast, Y.Sharovka 9+10reb+4ast, N.Gavryliuk 8+8reb+4ast
Dnipro-DVUFK: K.Williams 19+7reb+5ast, A.Domoratska 18+11reb+2ast, V.Onyshchenko 16+7reb, T.Bovykina 7+21reb+1ast, O.Chigrinova 7+1reb, L.Yaburova 4+7reb+1ast
gschID: 129037


Dynamo - Yuzhna Palmira 64-62

Eighth-ranked Yuzhna Palmira (6-11) made lots of trouble for fourth ranked Dynamo (11-7) in Kyiv on Saturday. Dynamo managed to secure only two-point victory 64-62. However their fans expected much easier game. Yuzhna Palmira trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 25-16 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 62-64 at the end of the game. American swingman Shantel Ragin (178-87, college: Clayton St.) fired a double-double by scoring 26 points and 19 rebounds for the winners. The former international point guard Nataliya Silyanova (172-71) chipped in 10 points. International forward Tetyana Shchypakina (178-85) produced 20 points and 8 rebounds and Serbian center Dragana Vukovic (190-78) added 12 points and 11 rebounds respectively for lost side. Dynamo moved-up to third place. Yuzhna Palmira at the other side keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. Dynamo are looking forward to face Dnipro-DVUFK (#4) in Dnepropetrovsk in the next round. Yuzhna Palmira will play on the road against the league's leader Tim-Scuf (#1) in Kyiv and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Dynamo: S.Ragin 26+19reb+2ast, N.Silyanova 10+4reb+2ast, L.Yakunina 10+1reb+1ast, N.Zotko 6+3reb+1ast, Y.Sinicina 5+1reb+3ast, E.Bondar 4+9reb+2ast
Yuzhna Palmira: T.Shchypakina 20+8reb+1ast, D.Vukovic 12+11reb+2ast, I.Dolynska 10+1reb, Z.Likhodid 8+4reb+1ast, A.Siromatnikova 5+8reb+5ast, S.Kolibabchuk 3+2reb
gschID: 129038


Donbas - Politeh Basket 61-73

There was no surprise in Donetsk where 9th ranked Donbas (5-13) were defeated by seventh ranked Politeh Basket (7-10) 73-61 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Politeh Basket. Donbas managed to win fourth quarter 28-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Donbas to just 4 points in third quarter. Politeh Basket dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Donbas' 26. Politeh Basket had a 29-18 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a great evening for guard Valentina Voronova (172-80) who led her team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists. Naturalized German center Tetiana Shablynska (191-74) helped adding 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 blocks. At the losing side forward Inesa Khodova (185-73) responded with 14 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists and center Irina Rastorgueva (180-76) scored 19 points and 6 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Politeh Basket maintains seventh place with 7-10 record. Loser Donbas keep the ninth position with 13 games lost. Politeh Basket will meet bottom-ranked Luganski Last. (#10) in the next round. Donbas will play against Frankivsk and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Politeh Basket: V.Voronova 18+11reb+8ast, T.Shablynska 13+7reb+4ast, N.Reznichenko 12+4reb+1ast, Y.Lapshynova 11+4reb+5ast, T.Zhurauliova 7+7reb+1ast, K.Kovalova 6+2reb+2ast
Donbas: I.Rastorgueva 19+6reb, I.Khodova 14+9reb+6ast, A.Annenkova 10+7reb, M.Agalareva 10+9reb+1ast, O.Solonar 3+3reb+7ast, A.Stepanova 3+2reb+2ast
gschID: 129035


Kozachka - Orlan 94-68

No shocking result in a game in Zaporozhye where second ranked Kozachka (15-3) smashed 6th ranked Orlan (8-10) 94-68 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Kozachka. Orlan managed to win fourth quarter 18-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kozachka dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Orlan's 32. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. It was a great evening for Russian forward Viktoria Sholokhova (188-86, college: Loyola, MD) who led her team to a victory scoring 20 points and 9 rebounds. Center Oksana Yushenko (180-73) helped adding 21 points and 6 rebounds. Four Kozachka players scored in double figures. At the losing side Belarusian center Elena Staschuk (192-85) responded with 17 points and 8 rebounds and the former international forward Oxana Pysmennyk (190-78) scored 12 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Orlan's coach Aleksey Beskov gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Kozachka have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain second place with 15-3 record having just -1 point less than leader Tim-Scuf. Loser Orlan keeps the sixth position with ten games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Kozachka: O.Yushenko 21+6reb+3ast, V.Sholokhova 20+9reb+2ast, G.Zarytska 17+6reb+5ast, O.Kisilova 13+4reb+2ast, A.Kulaga 8+3reb+2ast, T.Panchenk-Stakhova 7+1reb+7ast
Orlan: S.Pinchuk 19+3reb, E.Staschuk 17+8reb, O.Pysmennyk 12+7reb+5ast, K.Kashlei 7+4reb+7ast, N.Didanova 4+3reb, I.Gordiyenko 4
gschID: 129036




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.17.7 
 5. Markotenko, Frank.17.4 
 6. Yakunina, Lugans.17.4 
 7. Staschuk, Orlan17.3 
 8. Lubarskaya, Dynamo17.1 
 9. Grishina, Lugans.16.2 
 10. Rimarenko, Dynamo16.0 
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. Iagupova, Dnipr.4.6 
 5. Dubrovina, Kozach.4.6 
 6. Dubas, Frankivsk4.5 
 7. Voronova, Polite.3.9 
 8. Lapshynova, Polite.3.9 
 9. Kashlei, Orlan3.8 
 10. Pokoiova, Kozach.3.7 
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. Shchypakina, Yuzh.2.2 
 8. Panchenk-S., Koza.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. Shablynska, Polite.2.1 
 3. Zhyrakova, Polite.1.8 
 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 


Hungary wins third straight game in Sopron - by Eurobasket News
HUNGARY - UKRAINE 68-56

Hungary registered third straight win in Sopron. The host of the EuroBasket 2011 Additional Qualifying Tournament (Group A) was better than Ukraine 68-56 for perfect 3-0 record. On the other side, Ukraine dropped to 0-2. Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) shined for the winners with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Katalin Honti (175-G-87) scored 14 pts and Dora Horti (195-C-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) added two less. In defeat, Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) had 16 points and 9 boards. Maryna Sazonenko (175-G-86, college: Oregon St.) stopped to 12 pts in this game. Third quarter was the crucial one tonight. The hosts had plus 6 at the halftime and jumped to 15-point lead with 10:00 to go. It was too much for Ukraine, who faced with the second loss at this tournament.
Hungary will meet Bulgaria tomorrow, while Ukraine will play against Holland.

Hungary: Zsofia Fegyverneky 19+5 boards+5 as, Katalin Honti 14+5 boards, Dora Horti 12+6 boards
Ukraine: Olena Zherzherunova 16+9 boards, Maryna Sazonenko 12

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


New GM, new challenges for revamped Liberty - by Eurobasket News
There have been some astonishing streaks in New York sports history:

Joe DiMaggio's 56-game hit streak. The Islanders hockey dominance, resulting in four straight Stanley Cup titles. Carol Blazejowski's 15-year run as the Libertys general manager without winning a WNBA title.

Can you imagine a GM in any other sport in this town getting 15 years to get it right? No way, no how.

Garden management finally decided to extinguish Blaze and bring in a new GM and coach, John Whisenant, who won a WNBA title with the Sacramento Monarchs in 2005.

'I've always liked challenges', said Whisenant, 65. 'I still feel like I'm 30. To come here and win a championship ... you would think it would have happened [before], because this is the best basketball city in America.'

Winning it this year will not be easy. Not only must Whisenant implement his system, one grounded in defense and rebounding, but he must fill some gaping holes.

The Liberty, who open the season today in Atlanta, recently were shocked to learn power forward Janel McCarville, one of the franchises most popular players, would not report, and has been suspended for the season. Center Taj McWilliams-Franklin signed with Minnesota. Star Cappie Pondexter lost about 15 pounds battling severe flu-like symptoms in Russia, where she played professionally.

Poindexter, who won two WNBA titles with Phoenix, said the team can overcome the losses of McCarville and McWilliams-Franklin.

Ive been with two quality organizations, Pondexter said. I know the feeling. I know what it takes to have a team come together. We are. We want to be together.

That wasnt necessarily the case under Blazejowskis watch. She was a driven and demanding GM who never backed away from trying to make the team a champion, yet she rubbed a lot of players and employees the wrong way.

Theyre two different people, forward Nicole Powell said of Blazejowski and Whisenant. Powell played for Whisenant in Sacramento.

No matter why a change is made, thats always going to be the case, Powell said. All that I can say is that its a very comfortable atmosphere here. Its just like it was in Sacramento, except were in New York.

Thats another problem Whisenant and the Liberty, who went 22-12 and advanced to the Eastern Conference finals last season, will have to overcome this season the home games will be at the Prudential Center in Newark while the Garden is undergoing its transformation into a state-of-the-art facility.

Whisenant must really like challenges, because hes facing one. He is the franchises second GM in 16 seasons, and he is not even sure how the players will get to The Rock, no less how they will play.

I thought Blaze was a great person, a great competitor, Pondexter said. But 15 years and no championship, the franchise wants a title. Its up to us to deliver.

Courtesy of www.nypost.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 


Saturday's games review - by Eurobasket News
Indiana F. - Chicago S. 65-57
Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) scored 19 points and grabbed seven rebounds, Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) had 15 points and nine boards and the Indiana Fever beat the Sky 65-57 on Saturday night at Conseco Fieldhouse in the season opener for both teams. Tangela Smith scored 16 points for the Fever, which beat the Sky for the sixth consecutive time. Smith was 4-for-7 from behind the arc, one shy of her career high for three-pointers in a game. Guard Epiphanny Prince scored a game-high 20 points, and center Sylvia Fowles added 10 points and seven rebounds for the Sky, which fell behind 10-1 at the start of the game and never led. The Sky cut the deficit to four by the end of the half, but Indiana took a 10-point lead with a 9-3 run to start the third quarter. Rookie guard Courtney Vandersloot, the third overall pick in the 2011 draft, chipped in seven points and seven assists off the bench for the Sky. *Courtesy of www.suntimes.com

Seattle S. - Phoenix M. 78-71
Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) scored 13 points and handed out 10 assists, Camille Little (6'2''-F/G-85, college: N.Carolina) led Seattle with 18 points and the defending WNBA champion Storm opened the 2011 season with a 78-71 win over of the Phoenix Mercury on Saturday. Lauren Jackson added 15 points and seven rebounds as Seattle built a big fourth-quarter lead and then watched Phoenix's Diana Taurasi try to rally the Mercury in the closing seconds. Taurasi scored a game-high 31, including 11 in the closing minutes as Phoenix trimmed a 19-point deficit to within five with 16 seconds left. The six returning members of Seattle's championship team from a year ago received their title rings, then went out and beat Phoenix for the eighth straight time and ran the Storm's regular-season home win streak to 18 after going undefeated at home a year ago. Seattle led by just five at halftime but scored the first eight points of the second half and led by as many as 19 in the fourth quarter. *Courtesy of The Associated Press

S.Antonio SS - Tulsa S. 93-73
It wasn't the start they were hoping for. After jumping ahead early in the game, the Shock fell behind big at the end of the first quarter and San Antonio was able to sustain the lead, defeating the Shock, 93-73, in the 2011 season opener at the SBC Center in San Antonio Texas on Saturday night. Elizabeth Cambage (6'8''-C-91) had a good regular season debut with 18 points and 10 rebounds and went 12 for 14 at the free throw line. Point guard Ivory Latta (5'6''-G-84, college: N.Carolina) put up 15 points of her own but the two ladies combined for some 13 turnovers in the game. 'I think we started off very well, last year weren't a good starting team,' Latta said. 'Pretty much as Coach said, it was turnovers. Me, as the point guard here, I definitely blame myself for that. I had seven which is definitely unacceptable and that will change next game. I think second half we did a better job staying focused and doing what we do best and that's running.' In the end, it was the issue of turnovers that had Coach Nolan Richardson's attention. 'We didn't play very well, particularly in the first half,' Head Coach Nolan Richardson said. The thing that is hurting us quite a bit is the turnovers. We had a total of 28 but we had a lot of turnovers and many of them unforced. We're just not taking care of the ball and not being as sharp at this time of the year.' Overall the Shock had a 37% shooting percentage with 23-of-61 attempts and allowed San Antonio to shoot a 55% rating. Including a 41.7% from three point range. Led by Cambage the Shock made 27 trips to the free throw line while the Silver Stars visited the stripe only 12 times. Tulsa also posted 40 rebounds to San Antonio's 23. *Courtesy of www.tulsatoday.com

Connecticut S. - Washington M. 89-73
Connecticut's Danielle McCray (5'11''-G/F-87, college: Kansas) had more than a year to think about what it would be like to play her first WNBA game. Saturday's 89-73 win over Washington exceeded her expectations. McCray, who suffered a knee injury during her senior season at Kansas and sat out her rookie year with the Sun, scored 14 points, hit all five shots she took from the field and had four 3-pointers. 'I can't really say I expected it, but I've been working hard,' she said. 'So, I couldn't say it wasn't going to happen. I've been staying after for shooting and working on my shot a lot.' Tina Charles had 18 points and six rebounds to lead Connecticut. Renee Montgomery (5'7''-G-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) added 15 points and Asjha Jones scored 10 of her 14 points in the second half. Charles, who averaged more than 15 points and 11 rebounds in winning the league's Rookie of the Year honors last season, said McCray's outside shooting kept the defense from collapsing inside. 'I rarely got double teamed tonight,' she said. 'It happened maybe a couple of times. But the way Danielle was hitting and the way our guards penetrated, it really opened things up underneath.' Nicky Anosike, who was acquired from the Minnesota Lynx two days before the WNBA draft, and Crystal Langhorne each had 16 points to lead Washington. *Courtesy of www.usatoday.com