EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/11/2011

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Men News

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  ANDORRA   


Andorra Fights Back in Win Over Scotland - by Eurobasket News
Following Friday nights big win over Andorra in the Summer Slam, Scotlands senior men took the court in the second game of a two game series. The Peak was packed with fans, including members of the Future Starz Camp, a chance for the u12 girls and boy to receive coaching from the National Team Coaches.

Immediately once the game began, Andorra proved their ability to move the ball with speed and precision, bringing a much different display of talent than the previous night. Though Scotland fell behind, both teams managed to enter double-digits by the end of the first quarter. The score, Andorra leading 29-20, showed that the fight for the win had begun. Moving into the second quarter, both teams established a presence in the key and started a physical battle to grab the ball as it pounded off the backboard. Kieron once again supplied his team with the needed power and height for rebounding, but Andorras quickness to the basket was difficult for the Scottish men to defend. Towards the end of the half, the gap in the score widened as Scotland struggled to maintain possession of the ball. As the teams headed off the court, it was evident to the spectators that Scotland needed to deliver a better show during the second half as they trailed Andorra, 44-32.

As the second half began, both teams slowed down the pace of the game. Andorra remained content with their 12 point lead, while Scotland continued to struggle for the points needed to diminish the gap in the score. With their drives toward the basket proving unsuccessful, the Scottish players had to remain on the outside, hoping the shots would begin to fall into the basket. By the end of the third quarter, Andorra still had the lead, forcing Scotland to quicken their pace and put all their effort into the final minutes of the game.

Andorra gained control of the game from the beginning which ensured their win over Scotland. They succeeded in steadily increasing their lead until it became too difficult for the Scottish players to catch up. The final score of the game was 78-65.

At the conclusion of the game, teams from Scotland and Wales will roll onto the court to begin the Celtic Cup 2011, a tournament provided by British Wheelchair Basketball. The third and final game of the day will be between the u18 men of Scotland and Norway.
Courtesy of: http://www.basketballscotland.co.uk

Scotland Raises Excitement for the Slam in Win Against Andorra - by Eurobasket News
An international match between Scotlands senior men and Andorra opened the second weekend of the 2011 Summer Slam.

Much of the buzz about the game circled around Kieron Acharas return to captain the men this weekend. As the game began, the bleachers were full and even the sidelines were lined with fans. This game especially provided an opportunity for younger kids to come and learn about the game by watching an impressive show by the senior players.

The game started with both sides matching each other in points. The score remained low after the first quarter, with Scotland in the lead 16-12. However, Scotland picked up the momentum and extended their lead once the second quarter began. Ifadade Thomas continually worked his way past the Andorra players, moving quickly through the key and towards the basket. Scotland began to work together with a series of precise passing, freeing up men under the basket to lay the ball in. The score continued its rapid climb during the second quarter, ending with Scotland in the lead, 51-32. Cheers from the sidelines displayed the excitement about this 19 point lead.

The second half began with an eagerness to continue lengthening the lead over Andorra. Scotland seemed to be one step ahead of Andorras men on defense, quickly tipping the ball away before the offense could gather around the basket for a shot. Kieron made himself a permanent presence under the basket, rebounding the ball for Scotland and quickly beginning the counter-attack towards the other end of the court. With the lead remaining around 20 points for much of the third quarter, the Scottish players began to relax and took the chance to show-off some skillful maneuvers to move the ball past Andorra and towards the basket. With only one quarter to go, the low score of the first quarter seemed to be forgotten. Scotland led the game 70-46. With this lead, the players excitement was evident during the fourth quarter. Again, they picked up the speed of the game, launching long passes down the court to be received by players posted under the hoop, ready to score again. The game concluded with a final score of 86-65, Scotland winning the first game of the weekend.

The excitement continues on Saturday for all age groups beginning with a Future Starz camp for the u12 boys and girls invited. Along with games played by the u18 teams from Scotland and Norway, the Celtic Cup will be held on behalf of British Wheelchair Basketball. This weekend provides a chance for players of all age groups to gather at the Peak in Stirling to show off their basketball skills.
Courtesy of: http://www.basketballscotland.co.uk

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  ARGENTINA   


Russia U19 clinched third place in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Argentina U19-Russia U19 72:77

Russia U19 clinched third place in Riga at the 2011 U19 FIBA World Championships. The Russian overcame Argentina U19 for the third place 77:72.
Both teams desired to finish the campaign with the win after the losses at the semifinals last night. They both nailed 19 points in the opening quarter and continued the battle in the second frame. Carlos Paredes nailed three for 34:27, while Dmitry Kulagin (195-G-92) reduced to 40:35 at the halftime. Franco Giorgetti (202-F-92) gave the Latin American team the biggest lead in the game at 51:40, but they could not keep the lead for good. Dmitry Kulagin closed the period at 53:50 and the last stanza belonged to Russia. Sergey Karasev (200-F-93) tied the game at 53:53 early in the last and Vladislav Trushkin (200-F-93) nailed from the arc for 58:57. Sergey Karasev and Dmitry Kulagin made four free throws at the very end for the final success.
Dmitry Kulagin top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 8 rebounds, while Aleksandr Gudumak (204-F-93) and Sergey Karasev netted 17 each. Vladislav Trushkin ended up with 10 points in the winning effort. Franco Giorgetti answered with 18 points in the losing effort and Pablo Perez (202-F-92) scored 13.

Argentina U19: Franco Giorgetti 18, Pablo Perez 13, Juan Giaveno (175-PG-92) 10
Russia U19: Dmitry Kulagin 24+8 rebs, Aleksandr Gudumak 17, Sergey Karasev 17, Vladislav Trushkin 10



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  AUSTRALIA   


USA nip Australia to clinch fifth place in Riga - by Eurobasket News
USA U19 - Australia U19 78:77

USA claimed the fifth position at the U19 World Championship in Latvia. They prevailed against Australia in the final game at the tournament. Tim Hardaway Jr. (6'5''-G-92) knocked down 21 points to pace the North American team.
The Emus started the game strongly. They grabbed a 24:21 lead at the first break. Australia maintained the lead throughout the second term. The Emus posted a 43:39 halftime advantage. The USA bounced back in the third term. They erased the deficit and posted a 60:59 lead with one quarter remaining. The United States stayed in charge in the fourth frame. However Drmic put the Emus in front by one late in regulation. The USA found their hero in Jeremy Lamb as he accounted for two points and sealed the win for the USA. Doug McDermott (6'7''-F-92) posted 13 points, while Meyers Leonard (7'0''-C-92) added 10 points in the win. Hugh Greenwood (6'3''-G-92) answered with 26 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for Australia. Jackson Aldridge (6'1''-PG-92) and Mitchell Creek (6'6''-F/G-92) netted 9 points apiece in the loss.

USA U19: Tim Hardaway Jr. 21, Doug McDermott 13, Meyers Leonard 10
Australia U19: Hugh Greenwood 26, Jackson Aldridge 9, Mitchell Creek 9


Standings - ABA
ABA Standings
Big V
 1. Eltham W. 13-4 
 2. Waverley F. 12-4 
 3. Sherbrooke S. 11-7 
 4. Ringwood H. 10-8 
 5. Bulleen B. 9-8 
 6. Hume City 6-11 
 7. Diamond V.E. 4-13 
 8. Melbourne 4-14 
Central ABL
 1. Forestville E. 11-3 
 2. Norwood F. 10-3 
 3. W.Adelaide B. 9-5 
 4. Sturt S. 8-6 
 5. N.Adelaide R. 8-6 
 6. Woodville W. 7-7 
 7. S.Adelaide P. 6-7 
 8. Eastern M. 4-10 
 9. C.District L. 3-10 
 10. South.Tigers 2-11 
QBL
 1. Townsville H. 11-2 
 2. Mackay M. 11-3 
 3. Gold Coast R. 10-3 
 4. Cairns M. 9-5 
 5. Rockhampton 8-3 
 6. Brisbane C. 8-5 
 7. Ipswich F. 7-5 
 8. Northside W. 7-5 
 9. Bundaberg B. 6-7 
 10. Gladstone P. 4-9 
 11. Toowoomba 2-9 
 12. Maroochydore 2-10 
 13. Caboolture S. 2-11 
 14. SW Metro P. 2-11 
SEABL-East
 1. Bendigo B. 16-2 
 2. Knox R. 13-5 
 3. Ballarat M. 10-9 
 4. Dandenong 9-9 
 5. Kilsyth C. 9-10 
 6. Canberra G. 7-10 
 7. Brisbane S. 6-13 
SEABL-South
 1. Nunawading S. 16-4 
 2. Geelong S. 12-5 
 3. Sandringham S. 11-9 
 4. Hobart C. 8-11 
 5. Mt Gambier 7-12 
 6. Frankston B. 6-11 
 7. NW Tasmania 5-13 
 8. Albury W.B. 3-16 
WARATAH
 1. Sydney C. 14-3 
 2. Newcastle H. 13-3 
 3. Hills H. 11-7 
 4. Sutherland S. 10-6 
 5. Manly Warr. 9-7 
 6. Norths Bears 9-7 
 7. Parramatta W. 8-6 
 8. Illawarra H. 7-8 
 9. Maitland M. 7-9 
 10. Bankstown B. 7-11 
 11. Hornsby S. 6-11 
 12. Cent.Coast C. 4-12 
 13. Canberra N. 1-16 


Standings - SBL
SBL Standings
 1. Lakeside L. 22-2 
 2. Wanneroo W. 18-6 
 3. Perry Lakes H. 15-8 
 4. Cockburn C. 15-8 
 5. Willetton T. 14-9 
 6. Perth R. 13-11 
 7. Stirling S. 13-11 
 8. East Perth E. 12-10 
 9. Kalamunda E.S. 10-13 
 10. Goldfield G. 10-13 
 11. Geraldton B. 8-16 
 12. Mandurah M. 7-15 
 13. Rockingham F. 6-18 
 14. AIS 0-0 
 15. SW Slammers 0-23 


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  BELGIUM   


Gent Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Eurobasket has received confirmation that Richard Chaney (196-G-84, college: Troy) will join the Optima Gent roster for the 2011-2012 season.
Chaney has played in Europe and Puerto Rico since his senior year at Troy University at the end of the 2006-2007 season.
His first season overseas was in Turkey where he played for Oyak Renault Bursa. He played the past 3 seasons in Germany with a couple of sidetrips to Puerto Rico.
In Germany he played for Tubingen, Ludwigsburg and Bremerhaven. At present he is in Puerto Rico playing for Santurce.
In 30 regular season games for Santurce he averaged 12.5 ppg and 6.7 rpg.
In 2010 he was a member of the Puerto Rican national team.

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  BRAZIL   


Fresh start for Mogi das Cruzes, new team from Sao Paulo - by Paulo Freire
After a some years without basketball the city of Mogi das Cruzes in Sao Paulo is back in the brazilian basketball scenario. The city has a new team named Gremio Esportivo Mogi das Cruzes/Unip developed by two important persons on the Mogi das Cruzes basketball history former coach Nilo Martins Guimaraes and former point guard Danilo de Castro (186-G-70) , the team will be coach by Marcelo Ribeiro

Nilo now is the Mogi city Municipal Secretary of Sports and Leisure and Danilo is the director manager of the team, their fist challange was the New Millenew Tournament, wich they did pretty good as they put toghether a team that reach the finals against Piracicaba.

For the Paulista State Championship Mogi das Cruzes is building a new roster, Danilo has already announced their first five new players for the competition which will begins in August. From last Pinheiros roster comes their point guard Gustavinho Pereira (178-G-85) and forward Thomas Gehrke, for the shootinguard positiong they have sign Guilherme Alves (191-G/F-83) more knowing as Filipin who previous sign with Assis Basket, but right after the Assis folded for financial problems, as a combo guard the team will keep Edu Caviglia (196-G/F-80, college: W.Texas A&M) who played last NBB for Paulistano and already was in Mogi in the New Milenew Tornament, as a small forward the new face is Fernando Mineiro (200-F-80) who is coming from Araraquara.

The new project looks forward to be in the near future on the NBB.

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  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Six Basketball Players Receive US Scholarships - by David Edole
The BVI Hoop It Up Foundation hosted a press conference on Wednesday, July 6, 2011 at the RJT Edifice Building to announce the signing of six players that were recruited from the Foundation's Easter Hoops Showcase Camp.

In April of this year, the Foundation invited several coaches from the United States to possibly recruit players from the Virgin Islands and of the 30 players that tried out from both the BVI and USVI, six players have been offered scholarships to play college basketball in the United States.

VIDEO CLICK HERE

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  BULGARIA   


Bulgaria Men NT started Eurobasket camp - by Maria Mitzova
Bulgaria Men National team gathered today for the start of Eurobasket 2011 preparations. Head coach Rosen Barchovski (agency: Interperformances ) invited extended list of 20 players, with the last one Earl Rowland expected to join the group on July 20th. Also in the next days coach Barchovski should have Cedric Simmons on the team.
In the first phase of the camp, the team will reside in the mountain resort Borovets until July 25th. In the midst series of away friendly games, the team will be staying in Sofia and Pravets. Bulgaria was invited for tournaments in Italy, Cyprus, Macedonia and Greece, and will travel for games with Croatia and Spain.
The team will travel to Lithuania on August, 29th.
The extended roster:
Guards: Filip Videnov, Chavdar Kostov, Ivan Lilov, Zlatin Georgiev, Tihomir Zhelev, Aleksander Gruev, Bozhidar Avramov, Asen Velikov, Plamen Aleksiev, Earl Rowland;
Forwards: Dejan Ivanov, Kaloyan Ivanov, Stanislav Vaklinov, Aleksande Yanev, Pavel Marinov, Pavel Ivanov;
Centers: Nikolay Varbanov, Stefan Georgiev, Tencho Banev, Kostadin Marshavelski, Cedic Simmons.


Cedric Simmons is the new option for Bulgaria NT - by Maria Mitzova
Ex-NBA player Cedric Simmons (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) is the newest option for the Bulgarian NT. The American power forward might receive Bulgarian citizenship, if he impresses the NT coaching staff on the first preparation camp.
Bulgaria NT gathered today for first practice in the mountain resort Borovets. Simmons will join the team in the next few days, and the other American in the roster E.J. Rowland, is expected on July 20th.
Cedric Simmons already knows a Bulgarian NT player, as he has been playing together with Chavdar Kostov in Greek Kavala for the past season.


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  CHINA   


DeAngelo Collins claims Chinese NBL weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
American DeAngelo Collins (206-F-82) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader ShenYang and that's him to receive a Asia-basket.com NBL Player of the Week award for round 10.
The 29-year old forward had a double-double of 27 points and sixteen rebounds, while his team outclassed Heilongjiang (#9, 3-7) with 29-point margin 121-92. It allowed ShenYang to consolidate first place in the Chinese NBL. ShenYang has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 9-1. Collins has many years of experience at ShenYang, through which he has constantly improved. High School graduate has very impressive stats this year. Collins is in league's top in points (3rd best: 25.2ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 14.9rpg), assists (2nd best: 5.4apg) and averages solid 5.1bpg,2.4spg and 51.9% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old American forward Alan Wiggins (206-F-85) of second-ranked Whampoa. Wiggins impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 30 points and 19 rebounds. Of course he lead Whampoa to another comfortable win outscoring slightly lower-ranked Jiangsu (#4, 5-5) 98-75. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Whampoa consolidated its place in top 2 of the standings. His team's 7-3 record is not bad at all. Wiggins is one of the most experienced players at Whampoa and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 28.6ppg (#1). He also registered 14.0 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was American T.J. Bannister (180-G-84, agency: Warren Sports International) of Sichuan (#3). Bannister got into 30-points club by scoring 42 points in the last round. He went also for five rebounds and six assists. He was a key player of Sichuan, leading his team to a 108-100 win against the lower-ranked Hebei (#7, 4-6). Sichuan needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 6 victories and 4 lost games. Bannister has a great season in China. After 10 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 26.8ppg (2nd best) and assists with 7.1apg (best passer). He also has 2.3spg and FGP: 53.1%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Austen Powers (203-F-87) of Hangzhou - 26 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Nick Stallings (190-G-83) of Changan Group - 28 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists
6. Courtney Pigram (185-G-85) of Heilongjiang - 36 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists
7. Dante Milligan (206-F-84) of Hangzhou - 27 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Sani Sakakini (204-C-88) of Guangzhou FM - 26 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Benson Egemonye (207-C-83) of Heilongjiang - 27 points and 12 rebounds
10. Ramon Harris (201-F-88) of Ningxia Hanas - 26 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists

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

Lithuania Defeats Serbia for U-19 Title - by Arthur Volbert
Lithuania defeated Serbia 85-67 to win the FIBA World U-19 Championship. Russia defeated Argentina 77-72 to win third place. The erratic USA team, missing many of its best players from this age group, defeated Australia 78-77 for fifth place. Poland defeated Croatia 78-77 for seventh.

China, finishing 13th, failed to defeat a weaker Egyptian team and became flustered in the fourth quarter against the pressure of the USA. But when China learns to keep its composure it will be able to play on the level of any of the teams in this tournament. However, it is not nearly ready to defeat a full-strength USA team.



The Yao Effect - by Alex Yam
2011 will forever be remembered in NBA history. First because of the lockout of the NBA season, how ever long it goes, but 2nd, and perhaps the most important and historic of the two, is the retirement of global icon and ambassador of the game of basketball, Yao Ming.

Lets pause for a second and reflect what he actually brought to Basketball, Yao brought an entire country of fans, one that has over 1.3 billion people, and counting. The admiration of an entire country, the popularity of billions, increasing the NBA's global footprint by leaps and bounds. Sadly, in the end, it was his 7'6, 300 plus lb body that broke down. There will likely never be another Yao Ming, one that was as graceful on the court as he was off it, there may be more players from China, but none will ever impact the sport like Yao did, probably not in any sport, let alone basketball.

For his contributions to global basketball, Yao Ming should and will be inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, some may argue, he only played a short span (9yrs, parts of the last few), but his induction will most certainly be his contribution as well as his on court abilities/statistics. When healthy, he was the best center in the game, he represented his country with grace and dignity, something sports lacks in the present day. We will always remember Yao, whether a basketball fan or not, for his contributions off the court, which outweigh what he did on it.



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


Przemyslaw Karnowski leads Poland to the seventh place in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Poland U19 - Croatia U19 82:70

Poland wrapped up their U19 World Championship campaign with victory. They rallied past Croatia to clinch the seventh place in the ladder. Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) knocked down 29 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the winners.
It does not look good for Poland in the opening quarter. Croatia erupted for 26 points in the first frame to take an 8-point lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the second stanza. Croatia ensured a 46:38 halftime advantage. But Poland turned things around in the third term. Poland capped the frame with a 12:2 run to secure a 60:57 advantage with one quarter remaining. Przemyslaw Karnowski and Michal Michalak (194-G-93) opened up a double-digit lead for Poland midway through the fourth quarter 71:61. Croatia could not recover in the dying minutes and had to surrender at the end. Michal Michalak notched 23 points, while Grzegorz Grochowski (176-PG-93) added 12 points and 7 assists for Poland. Dario Saric (207-F/C-94) answered with 21 points and 9 rebounds for Croatia. Boris Barac (206-F-92) had 16 points in the loss.

Poland U19: Przemyslaw Karnowski 29, Michal Michalak 23, Grzegorz Grochowski 12
Croatia U19: Dario Saric 21, Boris Barac 16


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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


ESL Las Vegas Event Day 2 Results - by Darryl Reshaw
Eurobasket Summer League 11 (Las Vegas)
Day 2

Game 5

Lugano 120 Monaco 115

The first game of day 2 featured two teams that won their quarter-final opener. This game had several pro players on both teams. Coach Glen Hayes and NAIA Player of the Year Mr Justin Johnson (6'2''-PG-88, college: Concordia Irvine) looked ready for the highly skilled professional Mr. Dawson Eric (6'10''-F-84, college: Midwestern St.) and the Union Monaco team.
This was a very competitive contest where both teams surged back and forth with lots of lead changes but in the end Lugano advance to the ESL Championship game.
Union Monaco big guards and defensive pressure had an immediate impact on the game.
Lugano yesterday beat a team by 40 points but in todays game found their team in a dog fight.
There were several key possessions late in the game that gave Lugano the advantage.
A flagrant foul was crucial on a fast break giving Lugano free throws and the ball in a one possession game.
This game was one of the best contests in the ESL 2011 Las Vegas event.

Dawson Eric (18pts; 15rbs) should be playing on a NBA Summer League Team or a big club in Europe.
This 6'9' big man can handle the basketball like a guard, shoot extremely well and has an excellent inside game.
He easily can defend small forwards as well as power forwards.
Dawson can make an immediate impact in high levels in Europe (Turkey, Italy A1, Greece) and Asian markets.

Kiwan Smith (6'7''-F-87) (19pts; 7rbs) was playing very good for Monaco. He is relentless on the glass, which gave him several easy layups. He is a athletic work horse that will do very well in Europe with his high energy play.
Maurice Steen (6'2''-G-87) (20pts) was a key contributor for Monaco as well. He hit several deep 3pt shots and was super-aggressive on the defensive end. Dawson Eric did everything for his team; rebounding, steals and assist.
Perry Petty (6'1''-G) had an outstanding game scoring 21 points and playing great defense.
Then there was a Lindsey Hughey (6'3''-G-89) sighting. He was unstoppable in the forth quarter. He connected from deep, in the lane, from the line and an array of mid-range shots. He is a very confident player. When he gets hot, he is extremely tough to stop.
Allen Durham (6'6''-F) was a monster on the boards, he had 14 points and 15 rebounds.
He recorded 10 offensive rebounds alone which had an effect on the game.
The other outstanding guards for Lugano played well again.
Marcel Anderson (5'9''-PG-86, college: Harris-Stowe St.) scored 22 points and is probably the fastest guy at the ESL event.
He has an Iverson like game.
Justin Johnson chipped in another 15 points illustrating his fine PG scoring skills.
Again, Coach Glen Hayes led his team to a commanding lead late in the 4th. His constant communication and high energy from the sidelines increases the level of intensity of his players.
Lugano will be in the ESL Championship game on Sunday.

Dawson Eric finished the game with 18-points, 15-rebounds, 4-steals and 6-assist respectfully for Monaco.
The game MVP goes to Luganos Lindsey Hughey with 27 points, 7 assists, 3 steals and 4-rebounds.

Game 6

Geneva 115 Manchester 121

Game 2 had 78 Paul Sturgess (7'8''-C-87, agency: KMG Sports Management). He is a underdeveloped giant. He can run the floor for a big guy. He does a good job of getting rebounds when he is in the paint area. He needs to be developed. Robert Mitchell the former Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year looked solid in this game as well. It is clear he can compete on the professional level. He sees the floor very well and can defend many positions with his size and length.
Jason Stubbs (6'2''-G-86, college: Simpson (CA)) (18pts; 9rbs; 9ast) played and excellent game for the winners.
He was all over the floor and made some excellent decisions and used his strength and athleticism to attack the basket. He was one assist and one rebound away from a triple double.
He was the best player in the contest by far.
Solomon Tat (6'5''-G/F-86, college: Virginia) (20 pts) is a very strong athlete who attacks the basket very well and create fits for the opposing team. He is a very good candidate for teams in Europe looking for a quality Contonou player.
Denarryl Rice (6'0''-G-83, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Arkansas Tech) (18pts; 4ast) the super quick guard out of Detroit look great and had his best game of the ESL. He used his excellent dribble penetration skills to create offense for his teammates and himself.
Stan Johnson (6'7''-F) (17pts; 5rbs) played a very good all around game and got the attention of a few scouts.
Akeem Scott (6'1''-PG-83, agency: Interperformances, college: High Point) the player who won a championship in The Finnish League a few years ago put in a serious performance. He had 25-points, 6-rebounds and 6-assists as he controlled the tempo for his team but attack the paint relentlessly. The kid is a great prospect for mid level teams in Europe.
Tim Parham (6'9''-F/C-83, college: Md-Eastern Shore) (18pts; 14rbs) was solid in the paint area as he scored and rebounded extremely well. Tim can play for a lot of teams in Europe looking for a solid 4/5.
James Crowder (6'7''-F-86, agency: Agency No 10, college: Pfeiffer) (16pts; 9rbs) had a nice all around game scoring and rebounding as well.
Game MVP goes to Manchesters Jason Stubbs (6'2''-G-86, college: Simpson (CA)) with 18-points, 9-rebounds and 9-assist

Game 7

Zurich 93 - APSE Venice 89
Former NBA player and coach Phil Hubbard and the current coach of the Gary Splash Jay Bradford brought their teams into the semi-finals game undefeated.
This game was an exciting contest as the game went into double overtime and featured some very intense play.
Both teams competed at a high level and made key shots in crunch time.
APSE Venice seemed to have the interior advantage as their big guys dominated inside.
However the defensive pressure and excellent defense from the Zurich team kept them into the game.
In the first half, Terrell Bell was the stand out player and ended the game with 19 points.
David Fisher (6'6''-F-84, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: N.Mexico St.) was a beast inside and recorded 16 points and 13 rebounds.
The super quick and electrifying Michael Hunter scored 20 points and 10 assists for APSE Venice.
Brad Byerson (6'7''-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Virginia Union) had a nice all around inside game and scored 17 points and pulled 13 rebounds for the losing team.
Zurich featured seven players scoring double figures and excellent chemistry.
Jerrell Thompson (5'10''-G) (17pts; 6rbs; 5ast) was the guy in this contest and he displayed a great all around performance and lead his team to victory.
Justice Nall (6'6''-F, college: Mid-Continent) (14pts; 11rbs) played well notching a double double.
His teammate Frank Phifer (6'9''-C-80, college: Washburn) battled with the inside players of the Venice team and added a double double as well with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
Duncan Milne (6'9''-F-86) (10pts; 9rbs) looked good as he was one rebound away from a double double as well.
Trevor Bing (6'3''-G-85, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment) (12pts) played well as did Ryan Nelson (6'6''-G-87, college: Valdosta St.) (11pts) as both played contributed on both ends.
The first half was a low scoring contest and not a lot of offensive production.
As the game developed both teams picked up the scoring and increased their intensity. Both teams wanted to leave it all on the court to reach the Championship game as the APSE looked a little tired in the over time periods.
Coach Jay Bradford and Zurich advances to the championship game.

Game MVP goes to Jerrell Thompson (5'10''-G) with 17-points, 6-rebounds and 5-assist.

Game 8

Brussels 106 Dublin 74

The final game of the day 2 featured Coach Larry Lessett vs. Tunde Adekola .
In the first quarter the big guy Kenny Boyd (6'8''-C-82, college: Morehouse) went to work.
He is tough to defend because of his size, skills and footwork.
He can take big guys out to the perimeter and scorches them from 15-18 feet with a soft quality jump shot. He is a good European prospect.
He is so big a small version of Schortsantis of Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Bobby Nash (6'6''-G/F-84) (12pts) and Jessan Gray (11pts; 9rbs) were solid for the Dublin team.
Johnny Thomas (6'6''-F-87, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment) (19pts; 7rbs) is a very good European prospect. The kid is very athletic and can score the basketball.
Dijuan Harris (5'9''-G-86, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment, college: Charlotte) is a very quick and crafty PG with an excellent jump shot.
Dijuan was able to get in the paint and make good decisions with the ball.
He can also hit the long ball. Unfortunately, Dijuan didnt get to finish the game because of a dislocated finger. Harris would be a good player in France Pro B, Latvia, and leagues equivalent. Johnny Thomas was excellent in the first half. He was hitting shots from every area of the floor. I like his ability to hit the open shot.
Christian Simmons (6'5''-F-84, college: Bayreuth) (22pts; 8rbs) was simply outstanding in this game showing his nice all around game and excellent rebounding ability.
Coach Tunde Adekola got his team going in the second half. They went up by nearly forty. They cruised to the 5th place game tomorrow.
Game MVP goes to Christian Simmons (6'5''-F-84, college: Bayreuth) with 22-points and 8-rebounds.

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


ESL Las Vegas Event Day 2 Results - by Darryl Reshaw
Eurobasket Summer League 11 (Las Vegas)
Day 2

Game 5

Lugano 120 Monaco 115

The first game of day 2 featured two teams that won their quarter-final opener. This game had several pro players on both teams. Coach Glen Hayes and NAIA Player of the Year Mr Justin Johnson (6'2''-PG-88, college: Concordia Irvine) looked ready for the highly skilled professional Mr. Dawson Eric (6'10''-F-84, college: Midwestern St.) and the Union Monaco team.
This was a very competitive contest where both teams surged back and forth with lots of lead changes but in the end Lugano advance to the ESL Championship game.
Union Monaco big guards and defensive pressure had an immediate impact on the game.
Lugano yesterday beat a team by 40 points but in todays game found their team in a dog fight.
There were several key possessions late in the game that gave Lugano the advantage.
A flagrant foul was crucial on a fast break giving Lugano free throws and the ball in a one possession game.
This game was one of the best contests in the ESL 2011 Las Vegas event.

Dawson Eric (18pts; 15rbs) should be playing on a NBA Summer League Team or a big club in Europe.
This 6'9' big man can handle the basketball like a guard, shoot extremely well and has an excellent inside game.
He easily can defend small forwards as well as power forwards.
Dawson can make an immediate impact in high levels in Europe (Turkey, Italy A1, Greece) and Asian markets.

Kiwan Smith (6'7''-F-87) (19pts; 7rbs) was playing very good for Monaco. He is relentless on the glass, which gave him several easy layups. He is a athletic work horse that will do very well in Europe with his high energy play.
Maurice Steen (6'2''-G-87) (20pts) was a key contributor for Monaco as well. He hit several deep 3pt shots and was super-aggressive on the defensive end. Dawson Eric did everything for his team; rebounding, steals and assist.
Perry Petty (6'1''-G) had an outstanding game scoring 21 points and playing great defense.
Then there was a Lindsey Hughey (190-G-89) (6'3''-G-89) sighting. He was unstoppable in the forth quarter. He connected from deep, in the lane, from the line and an array of mid-range shots. He is a very confident player. When he gets hot, he is extremely tough to stop.
Allen Durham (6'6''-F) was a monster on the boards, he had 14 points and 15 rebounds.
He recorded 10 offensive rebounds alone which had an effect on the game.
The other outstanding guards for Lugano played well again.
Marcel Anderson (5'9''-PG-86, college: Harris-Stowe St.) scored 22 points and is probably the fastest guy at the ESL event.
He has an Iverson like game.
Justin Johnson chipped in another 15 points illustrating his fine PG scoring skills.
Again, Coach Glen Hayes led his team to a commanding lead late in the 4th. His constant communication and high energy from the sidelines increases the level of intensity of his players.
Lugano will be in the ESL Championship game on Sunday.

Dawson Eric finished the game with 18-points, 15-rebounds, 4-steals and 6-assist respectfully for Monaco.
The game MVP goes to Luganos Lindsey Hughey with 27 points, 7 assists, 3 steals and 4-rebounds.

Official Basketball Box Score -- Game Totals -- Final Statistics
Monaco vs Lugano
07/09/11 12 pm at Doolittle Center, Las Vegas, Nev.
Monaco 115
Total 3-Ptr Rebounds
## Player FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA Off Def Tot PF TP A TO Blk Stl Min
24 Steen, Maurice * 5-14 1-3 9-10 2 1 3 6 20 1 3 0 1 32
65 Freeman, Gabe * 3-9 0-3 7-9 0 6 6 4 13 1 5 1 0 36
76 Robinson, Tracy * 7-11 0-0 2-2 1 3 4 2 16 1 5 1 2 40-
89 Dawson, Eric * 5-19 0-0 8-10 6 9 15 5 18 6 7 3 4 41
98 Middleton, Jermaine * 1-1 0-0 0-0 1 0 1 1 2 0 1 0 0 8
12 Petty, Perry 7-13 2-6 5-8 5 1 6 5 21 4 2 0 3 30
54 Hewitt, Kenny 2-6 0-1 2-4 2 2 4 3 6 0 1 0 0 23
67 Smith, Kiwan 6-9 0-0 7-9 4 3 7 5 19 1 4 2 0 30
Team 0 3 3
Totals 36-82 3-13 40-52 21 28 49 31 115 14 28 7 10 240
FG % 1st Half: 20-46 43.5%
3FG % 1st Half: 2-4 50.0%
FT % 1st Half: 14-20 70.0%
2nd half: 16-36 44.4%
2nd half: 1-9 11.1%
2nd half: 26-32 81.3%
Game: 36-82 43.9%
Game: 3-13 23.1%
Game: 40-52 76.9%
Deadball
Rebounds
9
Lugano 120
Total 3-Ptr Rebounds

## Player FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA Off Def Tot PF TP A TO Blk Stl Min
01 Anderson, Marcel * 6-18 2-5 8-13 1 2 3 4 22 4 6 0 3 32
11 Johnson, Justin * 6-12 0-0 3-4 0 1 1 3 15 0 1 0 2 24
42 Kimble, Anthony * 1-3 0-0 2-2 1 2 3 0 4 2 3 0 2 23
60 Bailey, Brant * 3-7 0-1 8-8 3 5 8 3 14 0 3 0 1 23
97 Mitchell, Dustin * 1-2 0-0 0-0 1 2 3 4 2 0 1 0 1 16
14 Hughey, Lindsey 7-14 3-5 10-13 0 4 4 3 27 7 2 0 3 31
23 Watson, Kashif 3-5 0-0 1-2 1 3 4 1 7 2 1 1 1 16
55 Shuler, Jovonni 2-5 2-5 2-2 1 2 3 4 8 0 1 0 1 17
56 Schroeder, Andrew 2-7 0-0 1-2 0 2 2 2 5 0 2 1 0 25
75 Durham, Allen 7-13 0-0 0-0 11 4 15 4 14 2 1 1 0 25
88 Baker, Justin 1-3 0-0 0-0 0 1 1 3 2 0 1 0 0 10
Team 6 1 7 1
Totals 39-89 7-16 35-46 25 29 54 31 120 17 23 3 14 242
FG % 1st Half: 20-48 41.7%
3FG % 1st Half: 2-9 22.2%
FT % 1st Half: 13-18 72.2%
2nd half: 19-41 46.3%
2nd half: 5-7 71.4%
2nd half: 22-28 78.6%
Game: 39-89 43.8%
Game: 7-16 43.8%
Game: 35-46 76.1%
Deadball
Rebounds
9
Officials:
Technical fouls: Monaco-Steen, Maurice; Freeman, Gabe; TEAM. Lugano-None.
Attendance:
Score by periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total
Monaco 30 26 32 27 115
Lugano 26 29 29 36 120

Game 6

Geneva 115 Manchester 121

Game 2 had 78 Paul Sturgess (7'8''-C-87, agency: KMG Sports Management). He is a underdeveloped giant. He can run the floor for a big guy. He does a good job of getting rebounds when he is in the paint area. He needs to be developed. Robert Mitchell the former Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year looked solid in this game as well. It is clear he can compete on the professional level. He sees the floor very well and can defend many positions with his size and length.
Jason Stubbs (6'2''-G-86, college: Simpson (CA)) (18pts; 9rbs; 9ast) played and excellent game for the winners.
He was all over the floor and made some excellent decisions and used his strength and athleticism to attack the basket. He was one assist and one rebound away from a triple double.
He was the best player in the contest by far.
Solomon Tat (6'5''-G/F-86, college: Virginia) (20 pts) is a very strong athlete who attacks the basket very well and create fits for the opposing team. He is a very good candidate for teams in Europe looking for a quality Contonou player.
Denarryl Rice (6'0''-G-83, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Arkansas Tech) (18pts; 4ast) the super quick guard out of Detroit look great and had his best game of the ESL. He used his excellent dribble penetration skills to create offense for his teammates and himself.
Stan Johnson (6'7''-F) (17pts; 5rbs) played a very good all around game and got the attention of a few scouts.
Akeem Scott (6'1''-PG-83, agency: Interperformances, college: High Point) the player who won a championship in The Finnish League a few years ago put in a serious performance. He had 25-points, 6-rebounds and 6-assists as he controlled the tempo for his team but attack the paint relentlessly. The kid is a great prospect for mid level teams in Europe.
Tim Parham (6'9''-F/C-83, college: Md-Eastern Shore) (18pts; 14rbs) was solid in the paint area as he scored and rebounded extremely well. Tim can play for a lot of teams in Europe looking for a solid 4/5.
James Crowder (6'7''-F-86, agency: Agency No 10, college: Pfeiffer) (16pts; 9rbs) had a nice all around game scoring and rebounding as well.
Game MVP goes to Manchesters Jason Stubbs (6'2''-G-86, college: Simpson (CA)) with 18-points, 9-rebounds and 9-assist.

Official Basketball Box Score -- Game Totals -- Final Statistics
Manchester vs Geneva
07/09/11 2:15 pm at Doolittle Center, Las Vegas, Nev.
Manchester 121
Total 3-Ptr Rebounds
## Player FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA Off Def Tot PF TP A TO Blk Stl Min
16 Gottlieb, Noah * 3-8 0-0 1-2 0 0 0 5 7 4 3 0 3 20
37 Rakestraw, Nate * 4-8 2-5 0-0 2 2 4 1 10 4 1 0 2 25
41 Mitchell, Robert * 2-10 0-4 5-8 2 4 6 5 9 1 4 1 1 23
63 Johnson, Stan * 5-7 0-1 7-12 3 2 5 2 17 0 1 0 2 25
77 Custer, Coy * 4-11 0-0 1-2 0 5 5 6 9 0 3 1 2 25
25 Rice, Denarryl 6-13 3-7 3-5 1 1 2 0 18 4 1 0 1 28
26 Stubbs, Jason 5-8 0-0 8-12 3 6 9 2 18 9 1 0 1 27
45 Tat, Solomon 5-7 0-0 10-11 1 1 2 3 20 1 1 0 2 23
57 Baize, Jonah 1-3 1-1 0-0 0 0 0 3 3 0 1 0 0 21
66 Abraham, Dennard 5-10 0-0 0-0 3 7 10 3 10 0 1 2 1 23
Team 2 1 3
Totals 40-85 6-18 35-52 17 29 46 30 121 23 17 4 15 240
FG % 1st Half: 20-38 52.6%
3FG % 1st Half: 2-7 28.6%
FT % 1st Half: 23-31 74.2%
2nd half: 20-47 42.6%
2nd half: 4-11 36.4%
2nd half: 12-21 57.1%
Game: 40-85 47.1%
Game: 6-18 33.3%
Game: 35-52 67.3%
Deadball
Rebounds
7
Geneva 115
Total 3-Ptr Rebounds

## Player FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA Off Def Tot PF TP A TO Blk Stl Min
09 Long, Chris * 3-5 0-0 0-0 0 2 2 2 6 1 2 0 3 18
20 Scott, Akeem * 9-12 0-0 7-14 1 5 6 4 25 6 3 0 3 27
40 Crowder, James * 7-15 0-0 2-2 2 7 9 1 16 4 3 0 2 28
93 Pruitt, Tony * 4-8 1-2 0-0 2 1 3 4 9 0 0 0 0 30
95 Sturgess, Paul * 2-6 0-0 0-0 1 4 5 3 4 0 5 1 0 20
06 Smith, Allen 2-6 1-5 1-2 0 2 2 1 6 4 0 0 0 15
10 Christensen, Jeff 0-4 0-1 0-0 0 1 1 2 0 1 1 0 1 12
13 Moore, Chris 2-6 0-1 0-1 2 2 4 2 4 2 0 0 0 16
22 Christie, Terrell 3-6 0-1 6-10 3 2 5 4 12 0 1 0 0 20
34 Helton, James 1-2 0-0 2-2 1 0 1 1 4 0 2 0 0 13
72 Parham, Tim 8-11 0-0 2-11 6 8 14 3 18 1 2 0 1 25
87 Hanson, Tyrone 4-7 1-1 2-4 0 3 3 2 11 1 3 0 0 15
Team 3 0 3
Totals 45-88 3-11 22-46 21 37 58 29 115 20 22 1 10 239
FG % 1st Half: 23-43 53.5%
3FG % 1st Half: 2-4 50.0%
FT % 1st Half: 10-25 40.0%
2nd half: 22-45 48.9%
2nd half: 1-7 14.3%
2nd half: 12-21 57.1%
Game: 45-88 51.1%
Game: 3-11 27.3%
Game: 22-46 47.8%
Deadball
Rebounds
17
Officials:
Technical fouls: Manchester-None. Geneva-None.
Attendance:
Score by periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total
Manchester 32 33 23 33 121
Geneva 29 29 24 33 115


Game 7

Zurich 93 - APSE Venice 89
Former NBA player and coach Phil Hubbard and the current coach of the Gary Splash Jay Bradford brought their teams into the semi-finals game undefeated.
This game was an exciting contest as the game went into double overtime and featured some very intense play.
Both teams competed at a high level and made key shots in crunch time.
APSE Venice seemed to have the interior advantage as their big guys dominated inside.
However the defensive pressure and excellent defense from the Zurich team kept them into the game.
In the first half, Terrell Bell was the stand out player and ended the game with 19 points.
David Fisher (6'6''-F-84, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: N.Mexico St.) was a beast inside and recorded 16 points and 13 rebounds.
The super quick and electrifying Michael Hunter scored 20 points and 10 assists for APSE Venice.
Brad Byerson (6'7''-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Virginia Union) had a nice all around inside game and scored 17 points and pulled 13 rebounds for the losing team.
Zurich featured seven players scoring double figures and excellent chemistry.
Jerrell Thompson (5'10''-G) (17pts; 6rbs; 5ast) was the guy in this contest and he displayed a great all around performance and lead his team to victory.
Justice Nall (6'6''-F, college: Mid-Continent) (14pts; 11rbs) played well notching a double double.
His teammate Frank Phifer (6'9''-C-80, college: Washburn) battled with the inside players of the Venice team and added a double double as well with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
Duncan Milne (6'9''-F-86) (10pts; 9rbs) looked good as he was one rebound away from a double double as well.
Trevor Bing (191-G-85, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment) (6'3''-G-85, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment) (12pts) played well as did Ryan Nelson (6'6''-G-87, college: Valdosta St.) (11pts) as both played contributed on both ends.
The first half was a low scoring contest and not a lot of offensive production.
As the game developed both teams picked up the scoring and increased their intensity. Both teams wanted to leave it all on the court to reach the Championship game as the APSE looked a little tired in the over time periods.
Coach Jay Bradford and Zurich advances to the championship game.

Game MVP goes to Jerrell Thompson (5'10''-G) with 17-points, 6-rebounds and 5-assist.

Official Basketball Box Score -- Game Totals -- Final Statistics
Venice vs Zurich
07/09/11 4:15 pm at Doolittle Center, Las Vegas, Nev.
Venice 89

Total 3-Ptr Rebounds
## Player FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA Off Def Tot PF TP A TO Blk Stl Min
29 Hunter, Michael * 9-23 1-6 1-2 0 4 4 2 20 10 3 0 2 53
48 Fisher, David * 6-11 1-1 3-5 1 12 13 3 16 2 3 2 1 52
49 Bell, Terrell * 8-16 1-1 2-2 1 6 7 4 19 5 4 2 0 57
69 Southern, Josh * 4-8 0-0 0-0 0 3 3 2 8 1 0 2 0 33
79 Byerson, Brad * 6-16 0-0 5-6 4 9 13 3 17 0 3 0 4 45
39 Hawkins, Tomaul 1-5 0-0 0-0 1 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 1 13
64 Banks, Jabril 1-8 0-0 1-4 1 0 1 0 3 0 1 0 1 27
70 Jones, Jeff 2-3 0-0 0-0 1 3 4 0 4 1 0 0 1 15
Team 1 1 2
Totals 37-90 3-8 12-19 10 38 48 14 89 19 16 6 10 295
FG % 1st Half: 17-41 41.5%
3FG % 1st Half: 1-2 50.0%
FT % 1st Half: 5-8 62.5%
2nd half: 19-41 46.3%
2nd half: 1-4 25.0%
2nd half: 5-7 71.4%
OT: 1-8 12.5%
OT: 1-2 50.0%
OT: 2-4 50.0%
Game: 37-90 41.1%
Game: 3-8 37.5%
Game: 12-19 63.2%
Deadball
Rebounds
6
Zurich 93
Total 3-Ptr Rebounds

## Player FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA Off Def Tot PF TP A TO Blk Stl Min
43 Jackson, Marcus * 2-4 0-0 2-4 0 2 2 0 6 1 2 0 0 39
46 Eldridge, Robert * 0-8 0-0 3-4 1 3 4 1 3 4 4 0 0 35
47 Bing, Trevor * 5-13 0-0 2-2 0 3 3 1 12 1 1 0 1 39
59 Nall, Justice * 6-11 1-1 1-4 4 7 11 4 14 0 2 0 1 32
68 Milne, Duncan * 5-10 0-0 0-1 3 6 9 1 10 0 2 2 0 33
27 Thompson, Jerrell 8-9 1-1 0-0 1 5 6 1 17 5 1 1 0 20
28 Tomko, Chad 2-11 1-7 0-0 0 1 1 1 5 4 3 0 2 23
38 Williams, John 1-5 0-0 2-2 0 3 3 0 4 1 0 3 0 20
58 Nelson, Ryan 5-9 1-2 0-0 1 6 7 2 11 0 2 4 1 25
78 Phifer, Frank 5-10 0-0 1-2 3 7 10 3 11 1 1 2 2 28
Team 3 1 4
Totals 39-90 4-11 11-19 16 44 60 14 93 17 18 12 7 294
FG % 1st Half: 15-41 36.6%
3FG % 1st Half: 2-4 50.0%
FT % 1st Half: 3-7 42.9%
2nd half: 21-44 47.7%
2nd half: 2-7 28.6%
2nd half: 5-8 62.5%
OT: 3-5 60.0%
OT: 0-0 0.0%
OT: 3-4 75.0%
Game: 39-90 43.3%
Game: 4-11 36.4%
Game: 11-19 57.9%
Deadball
Rebounds
4
Officials:
Technical fouls: Venice-None. Zurich-None.
Attendance:
Score by periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th O T OT2 Total
Venice 25 15 26 18 5 0 89
Zurich 16 19 26 23 5 4 93


Game 8

Brussels 106 Dublin 74

The final game of the day 2 featured Coach Larry Lessett vs. Tunde Adekola .
In the first quarter the big guy Kenny Boyd (6'8''-C-82, college: Morehouse) went to work.
He is tough to defend because of his size, skills and footwork.
He can take big guys out to the perimeter and scorches them from 15-18 feet with a soft quality jump shot. He is a good European prospect.
He is so big a small version of Schortsantis of Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Bobby Nash (6'6''-G/F-84) (12pts) and Jessan Gray (11pts; 9rbs) were solid for the Dublin team.
Johnny Thomas (6'6''-F-87, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment) (19pts; 7rbs) is a very good European prospect. The kid is very athletic and can score the basketball.
Dijuan Harris (5'9''-G-86, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment, college: Charlotte) is a very quick and crafty PG with an excellent jump shot.
Dijuan was able to get in the paint and make good decisions with the ball.
He can also hit the long ball. Unfortunately, Dijuan didnt get to finish the game because of a dislocated finger. Harris would be a good player in France Pro B, Latvia, and leagues equivalent. Johnny Thomas was excellent in the first half. He was hitting shots from every area of the floor. I like his ability to hit the open shot.
Christian Simmons (6'5''-F-84, college: Bayreuth) (22pts; 8rbs) was simply outstanding in this game showing his nice all around game and excellent rebounding ability.
Coach Tunde Adekola got his team going in the second half. They went up by nearly forty. They cruised to the 5th place game tomorrow.
Game MVP goes to Christian Simmons (6'5''-F-84, college: Bayreuth) with 22-points and 8-rebounds.


Official Basketball Box Score -- Game Totals -- Final Statistics
Dublin vs Brussels
07/09/11 6:15 pm at Doolittle Center, Las Vegas, Nev.
Dublin 74

Total 3-Ptr Rebounds
## Player FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA Off Def Tot PF TP A TO Blk Stl Min
08 Goldsberry, Vince * 2-4 0-0 2-2 0 0 0 0 6 4 2 0 1 23
32 Martin, Tristan * 4-9 0-0 0-1 1 0 1 0 8 0 4 0 1 20
53 Nash, Robert * 5-10 0-1 2-2 0 2 2 1 12 2 1 1 0 33
71 Gray, Jessan * 5-10 0-0 1-2 2 7 9 1 11 0 0 0 0 30
85 Boyd, Kenny * 5-10 0-0 0-1 1 4 5 2 10 4 2 0 0 28
04 Wilson, Josh 3-14 1-4 0-0 0 3 3 0 7 3 3 0 0 24
19 Sims, Nathan 2-7 0-0 2-3 0 1 1 1 6 0 2 1 2 18
31 Scott, Melvin 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 5
35 McIntosh, Jabari 2-2 0-0 0-1 3 2 5 4 4 1 2 1 1 17
73 Stockton, Jarred 3-6 1-2 0-0 1 1 2 1 7 0 2 0 0 14
86 Sample, Justin 0-2 0-0 0-0 2 1 3 3 0 0 0 0 1 11
96 Stamper, J'son 1-3 0-1 1-2 2 3 5 2 3 1 1 0 1 18
Team 2 3 5
Totals 32-77 2-8 8-14 14 27 41 16 74 15 19 3 7 241
FG % 1st Half: 19-45 42.2%
3FG % 1st Half: 1-4 25.0%
FT % 1st Half: 0-2 0.0%
2nd half: 13-32 40.6%
2nd half: 1-4 25.0%
2nd half: 8-12 66.7%
Game: 32-77 41.6%
Game: 2-8 25.0%
Game: 8-14 57.1%
Deadball
Rebounds
2
Brussels 106
Total 3-Ptr Rebounds

## Player FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA Off Def Tot PF TP A TO Blk Stl Min
05 Harris, Dijuan * 5-8 0-0 1-1 0 1 1 3 11 5 3 0 1 23
50 Lawrence, Tryston * 3-5 0-0 0-0 1 1 2 0 6 2 1 0 0 26
51 Thomas, John * 6-12 0-3 7-8 3 4 7 1 19 0 0 0 0 32
91 George, Travis * 2-13 0-0 1-3 4 3 7 3 5 0 1 1 1 21
92 Jones, Phil * 3-8 0-0 0-2 1 4 5 0 6 0 1 0 0 15
03 Evans, Darryl 1-3 1-1 4-4 0 2 2 0 7 7 1 0 2 25
07 Deadwiler, Shawn 4-5 0-0 0-0 0 1 1 0 8 2 0 0 3 14
18 Davis, Jocolby 1-2 0-1 0-0 0 2 2 1 2 0 0 2 1 12
30 Simmons, Christian 9-11 4-6 0-0 2 6 8 0 22 1 1 0 0 23
52 Wilderness, Anjuan 4-6 1-1 3-4 1 5 6 1 12 0 3 0 1 24
83 Magee, Elliot 1-1 0-0 1-2 0 1 1 2 3 0 0 0 0 13
84 Ajufo, Chidi 2-2 0-0 1-2 0 1 1 2 5 2 0 2 0 16
Team 1 3 4
Totals 41-76 6-12 18-26 13 34 47 13 106 19 11 5 9 244
FG % 1st Half: 20-38 52.6%
3FG % 1st Half: 3-6 50.0%
FT % 1st Half: 12-15 80.0%
2nd half: 21-38 55.3%
2nd half: 3-6 50.0%
2nd half: 6-11 54.5%
Game: 41-76 53.9%
Game: 6-12 50.0%
Game: 18-26 69.2%
Deadball
Rebounds
4
Officials:
Technical fouls: Dublin-None. Brussels-None.
Attendance:
Score by periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total
Dublin 24 15 21 14 74
Brussels 21 34 24 27 106

Eurobasket Exclusive: Will Bynum wants to reunite with Maccabi T.A.? - by David Pick
In the music industry it's called a 'remix', in the basketball business the same concept apparently applies, especially if you're a talented NBA point guard from Chicago whose name is Will Bynum.

A source exclusively informed 'Eurobasket' that Bynum, who played for Maccabi between the 2006-2008 seasons, expressed strong interest in and is eager to return to Israel for a so-called 'remix', where he would pair up with childhood friend, Jeremy Pargo, creating one of the most talented, fastest and most athletic back court line in Europe, as they will work to win a Euroleague title. 'Bynum would love to go back to Maccabi if it made sense,' said a source with knowledge of Bynum's situation, adding, 'But I know it would be tough for Maccabi to lose him if/when the lockout ends.'

The signing of Bynum could possibly complete the missing piece of Maccabi's head coach David Blatt's puzzle as the Chi town star would undoubtedly become the most impressive and significant recruit a European team has made this summer.

Bynum aka 'Bynumite', for his explosive athletic ability, played the last three seasons in the NBA for the Detroit Pistons and still has a signed contract with the organization. However, sources close to the player confirmed that he might be interested in opting out of his contract to join Maccabi. 'He did love playing overseas and especially with Maccabi and would never turn down an opportunity to go back if it made sense.'

Israeli sources confirmed that Maccabi is negotiating contract terms with an NBA point guard. Bynum finished the past season playing in 61 games, starting in five of them and posting averages of 7.9 points, 1.2 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game.

The 28 year-old Bynum could turn out being the perfect fit for Blatt, who is in search of a recognized NBA point guard to round out his talented roster. Bynum began his college career at the University of Arizona but after his sophomore season, transferred to Georgia Tech where he helped for the 'Yellow-Jackets' and reached the NCAA Final Four championship game averaging 12.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. He first appeared in the NBA in the 2005/6 season playing 15 games for the Golden State Warriors averaging 10.8 minutes and 3.6 points. In the 2008/09 season, Bynum joined the Pistons and is playing there ever since. In Europe, Bynum finished his 2007/08 Euroleague season recording 10.6 points and 3 assists per game where in the Israeli domestic league he would post 6.8 points, 1.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists in 26 games.

Maccabi has also showed great potential interest in American Guard Javaris Crittenton (Georgia Tech), who previously played for the Dakota Wizards of the NBA D-League. Crittenton was drafted with the 19th pick in the first round of the 2007 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers and also played for the Memphis Grizzlies, Washington Wizards and China's Zhejiang Lions. Another name that is considered in the Nokia halls is that of Shooting Guard E'Twaun Moore (University of Purdue), who was selected 55th overall in the 2nd round of the 2011 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics.

To date, the yellow-and-blue inked Shawn James, Jon Scheyer, Devin Smith and TBD Bynum's former teammate Yotam Halperin (trying to overcome financial tax issues), joined by Jeremy Pargo, Guy Pnini, Lior Eliyahu, Richard Hendrix, Tal Burstein, Milan Macvan, Sofoklis Schortsanitis, David Blu, Derrick Sharp and Sean Labanowski.



Marko Cakarevic heads to Partizan - by Eurobasket News
Partizan landed Marko Cakarevic (200-F/G-88, agency: Interperformances). The 23-year-old forward spent the last season in Radnicki. He averaged 8.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game in Adriatic League. In Serbian League his stats read 12.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.9 assists per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Marko Cakarevic into Serbian League All-Defensive Team. He also made it into All-Serbian League 2nd Team. Marko Cakarevic was the member of Serbian U19 and U20 National Teams.


Bilbao Basket and Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca part ways - by Eurobasket News
Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca (212-C-83) is no longer a member of Bizkaia Bilbao Basket. The Spanish team decided not to exercise option for 2011/12 season and Hernandez-Sonseca immediately became a free agent. The experienced big guy joined Bilbao last summer from DKV Joventut. He appeared 36 times in ACB for Bilbao averaging 4.1 points and 3.6 rebounds. It seems that was not enough for him to secure an extension. Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca played for DKV Joventut from 2007 to 2010. Season 2008/09, was the best one for Hernandez-Sonseca as he registered 10.8 ppg and 4.9 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. In ACB, he had 7.9 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 1.1 bpg that season. In the past, Hernandez-Sonseca spent yew years with Real Madrid. He played for the Spanish B National Team in 2003.

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


France U16 edge Italy U16 in Riom - by Eurobasket News
France U16 - Italy U16 73:56

France posted the second win in a row at the international friendly tournament in Riom. They knocked down Italy to improve at 2-0 record. France will take on Serbia for the title tonight. Italy will face Greece looking for the initial win at the tourney.
The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter. France ensured a narrow 19:18 advantage at the first break. The hosts opened the second term on a 10:1 run to take a double digit lead. But Italy got back within five at halftime 29:34. Vildera and Lorenzo Baldasso (190-G-95) erased the deficit early in the third frame. However Les Bleus responded with a 19:6 run that gave them a 55:42 lead with one quarter remaining. Italy never got closer than 11 points in the final term as France cruised to the victory. Damien Inglis (198-F-95) knocked down 17 points to lead the hosts. Paul Lou Duwiquet (193-G-95) added 10 points for the winners. Alessandro Benvenuti replied with 14 points for Italy. Lorenzo Baldasso accounted for 9 points in defeat.

France U16: Damien Inglis 17, Paul Lou Duwiquet 10, Paul Rigot (199-G-95) 8
Italy U16: Alessandro Benvenuti 14, Lorenzo Baldasso 9


Spurs' Parker thinks more players will head to Europe - by Eurobasket News
As the NBA lockout continues, NBA players are looking at Europe as a viable option should the lockout eat into next season.

Deron Williams made waves when he agreed in principle to play in Turkey and now the question is if other NBA stars will follow and San Antonio Spurs' Tony Parker does see other players heading abroad.

'If the strike continues, it may be that the majority of NBA players come to try their luck in Europe.'

As for Parker, he continued to reiterate that he would wait until January to decide whether or not to play for France should the lockout still be in effect. However, as far as the lockout is concerned, Parker put is succinctly.

'I went to the meeting in New York before coming to France. It's complicated, it would take too long to explain. This is a problem for the rich.'

One of the ripple effects of the lockout is the insurance matters for foreign NBA players. Currently, this issue has not been settled for Parker and although he feels the issue will be settled in due time, he made it clear he, and Bulls' Joakim Noah, would not play play without insurance.

'But, like me, like others, will not play if it is not insured ...'

As for the Olympic qualification tournament in Lithuania, Parker knows what the French National Team must do.

'The qualification for the Olympic Games. There are two ways to do this: either by going to the final or finishing in the top five and then by playing the pre-Olympic tournament.'

Courtesy of http://projectspurs.com

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


Fortitudo Bologna targets Zare Markovski as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
According to Sportando, Fortitudo Bologna is close to hire Zare Markovski as their new Head Coach. Reportedly, the deal could be official within next 48 hours. The Macedonian specialist worked last season in France with Limoges CSP. They ended as the last ranked team in ProA with 9-21 score. Markovski worked with Armani Jeans Milano three years ago. Actually, he started 2007/08 season with Milano, but they parted ways in October of 2007. From 2005 to 2007, Markovski was a Head Coach of Caffe Maxim Virtus Bologna. He helped them reach SerieA Finals in 2007 and he also coach at the SerieA All-Star game. In the past, Zare Markovski worked with Air Avelino, Lugao Tigers, Dadussafaka, Kavadarci and Sassari. He was the Swiss league champion with Lugano in 2001.

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


ASC Theresiaum Mainz Signs Christian Zander - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Regionalliga team ASC Theresiaum Mainz have announced the arrival of Christian Zander (185-G-85). Zander is a 25 year old 185cm guard. Last season Zander played for SC Lerchenberg in the Oberliga. 'Chris will give our team new dimensions, becuase he isnt only a good scorer, but can also steer the team', expressed ASC Mainz sport director Alexander Heidbrink. Zander will control the ASC Mainz backcourt with young youth player Tim Brauner. Zander started his basketball career in 2002 with SG Sechtem 1971 (Regionalliga). This will be his second tour of duty in Mainz as he played for ASC Theresianum Mainz (Regionalliga) from 2008-2010.


Pressemitteilung: ASC Theresiaum Mainz

A Coversation With Jefferson Mason (Webmoebel Baskets) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Jefferson Mason (198-G-88, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Minn.St.-Mankato) is a 23 year old 198cm guard from Crystal, Minnesota that will start his professional basketball career in the German Pro A with the Webmoebel Baskets Paderborn. He played at N.Colorado from 2006-2009.In his senior year, he transferred to Minnesota State-Mankato (NCAA2)playing 33 games: 19.2ppg, 8.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, FG%: 55.5, 3FG%: 30.6, FT%: 70.0. Awards/Achievements in his career have been HS: all-tournament team -06, Daktronics NCAA Division II All-Central Region 2nd Team -10, NABC Division II All-Central Region 1st Team -10, 11, NSIC Regular Season Champion -10, 11, All-NSIC 1st Team -10, 11, All-NSIC Defensive Player of the Year -10, NSIC Tournament Semifinals -11, NCAA D2 All-Tournament Team -11, NCAA D2 Final Four -11,and NABC Division II All-America Team -11. Eurobasket talked to Jefferson Mason (198-G-88, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Minn.St.-Mankato) about basketball.

Congrats on the contract with Paderborn. How was this first process for you getting that first professional contract?

It was a fairly smooth process. My agency is one of the best and the staff in Paderborn made me feel comfortable with the situation and it seemed like the best fit for me.

Were you surprised how quickly it happened? Often players have to wait a whole summer before getting the chance to play.

I was surprised being that I thought I'd start getting offers around June or July but I had a great year and got some good exposure. Also like I said before my agency is good at finding great situations and the coaches there saw something they liked in me so the process started a little bit earlier.

With what expectations do you come to Germany?


I think that Germany will be a great place to start my pro career and I expect the town to be different in many ways then from where I'm from but that's the joy of traveling.

You are from Minnesota. Paderborn is a small town. There might not be as many woods and lakes in the Paderborn area. Is a small place where you can focus on basketball perfect for you?


I think Paderborn is a great place to concentrate on becoming the best basketball player I can be. I'm sure the people there are very kind and I'm excited to show my skill set to the people and coaches there this upcoming year. I lived in a fairly small city in Colorado so it shouldn't be that drastic of a change.


What was your childhood like?

my childhood was great, I had a loving family and people that supported my every move.

Who were basketball idols growing up and why?


My basketball idol growing up would have to be Michael Jordan easily. He was so exciting to watch and his dedication to the game was amazing! He made his teammates better and he was a constant highlight.

You played three seasons at Northern Colorado. What was your nicest experience on and off the court there?

Colorado is a beautiful place in general. The mountains are indescribable and the weather is always fantastic. I loved playing in front of 15,000-20,000 people on any given night and playing at the top collegic level in The US. I also was able to travel the country and experience many new things.

Why did you transfer to Minn.St.-Mankato (NCAA2) in your senior year?


I transfered my senior year because my step father became extremely ill. I had already lost my biological father to cancer when I was 11, so it meant a lot to my family for me to be closer to home and them to be able to watch me play live.

How would you describe your game on the court?

I would say that I am an exciting player. Every game I have an amazing highlight dunk or two that will have any person out of their seat. Im a player that will play the game fast and work my tail off to win any game for my teammates. I am a great rebounder and overall player that can play multiple positions and also guard multiple positions


What is a strength in your game that isnt always noticed right away?

I would say that people don't always know my shooting ability. I am known for my athleticism and dunks but I can shoot the mid range and three ball at a high clip. What ever the coaches call on me to do I will in order for the team to win.

What are the main things that you still need to work on on your game?

I've been told that I'm an extremeley unselfish player and that I need to be more aggressive. I lead my team in scoring for two years and my shot attempts were no higher then my other teammates. I feel I have the ability to be a prolific scorer I just need to assert myself more!

Who was the best player that you played against in the NCAA that might be in the NBA?

I've played against Rodney Stuckey (Detroit Pistons), Carl Landrey (New Orleans Hornets), Kris Humphries (New Jersey Nets), Jason Smith (New Orleans Hornets), Austin Daye (Detroit Piston), Jeremy Pargo, Jon Luer (nba draft this year), Derek Rose (Chicago Bulls), playing with Devon George currently on my summer pro am team (LA Lakers) right now

What were the most free throws that you made in a row?

I made 24 straight free throws

What was the craziest shot that you ever made in a game or practice?

In a game I made a 3 quarters court shot to win a game in high school.

What are your hobbies?


I enjoy reading and learning in general. I love to site see and obviously most of my free time is dedicated to basketball and getting better

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last Dvd I saw was the Mike Tyson biography. It was quite entertaining I must say.

Thanks Jefferson for the chat.

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


Hellenic NT Mens the players who have and havent been called by Coach Zouros - by Chris Mammides
On Friday the 8th of July, 2011 - just before midnight Head Coach Ilias Zouros announced officially the 16 athletes who will be participating in the preparation of the National team for the Eurobasket in September, 2011, in order to be able to select the final 12. In these 16 players there are some surprises but also there are some players who havent been called but were able to assist this new and without 3D Hellenic NT.
The players that have been called are the following:
Guards:
Vassilis Spanoulis of Olympiakos
Nick Calathes of Panathinaikos
Nikolaos Zisis of Sienna
Kostas Sloukas of Olympiakos
Vangelis Mantzaris of Peristeri
Costas Vasiliadis of Bilbao
Forwards:
Mike Bramos of Gran Canaria
Stratos Perperoglou of Panathinaikos
Kostas Papanikolaou of Olympiakos
Loukas Mavrokefalidis of Spartak
Antonis Fotsis of Armani Milano
Kostas Kaimakoglou of Panathinaikos
Centers:
Kostas Koufos of Denver Nuggets
Sofoklis Schortsianitis of Maccabi Tel Aviv
Ian Vougioukas of Panathinaikos
Giannis Bouroussis of Armani Milano
Some of the players who were expected to be called mainly due to their general presentation in the leagues were they play are the following:
Guards:
Nikos Papas of Kolossos Rodou (this season was the 6th player of Sferopoulos team and in as many as 12 games was a starter too, he had 7.5 points per game, 1.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists, while he is a decent defender and due to his performance in the various national teams. He obviously has the winning spirit which is more than needed in a team)
Dimitrios Tsaldaris of Dinamo Sassari the surprising team in Italys league this season. Dimitris was a starter in most games while he ended a very successful season for his team with 10 points per game, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1.2 steals in the 34 games he played in the Italian league.
Kostas Charalambidis of Aris Thessalonikis for many people in Greece he is the most unlucky player in the league as in his position are players like Spanoulis and Diamantidis so his chances to be called all these years were limited, in any case Kostas at his 34 succeeded something that not many players can do as he was a great performer and this is proved by his 11.2 points per game, his 2 rebounds and his 2 assists. Kostas lost probably his last chance to play in the Hellenic NT.

Forwards:
Pat Kalathis who was voted unanimously as the second most improved player after his younger brother Nick who was voted as the most improved player in the Greek league. Pat was the A-Z of the team of Kolossos Rodou, he has nearly 14.5 points per game, 8 rebounds and 2 assists. An all around game from the young Greek American who proved in many occasions that he is as good as many other players in the specific position being improved and adopted the European style totally. Pat performed very well this season and a possible call in the Hellenic NT (even in the pre-selected team) was expected by many people.
Giorgos Printezis of Olympiakos, will be out of the Hellenic NT after quite some years within the Greek troops, but his presentation in the Hellenic NT was a doubt as this season was not his best one even though with his appearances against the European champion team of Panathinaikos in the finals was very promising and showed that he is ready for bigger and more challenges even though his career in the Spanish ACB ended unsuccessfully
Christos Tapoutos of Aris, after the end of the season where Christos performed very well, many people expected that Zouros would have given him a chance to compete against the other forwards for a position in the National team. Tapoutos had as many as 11.3 points per game, 5.5 rebounds and 1.2 assists while in many occasions he was the top performer of his team. Tapoutos probably performed his best and most solid season since he began his career.

Centers:
Dimitrios Mavroeidis, of Bizkaia Bilbao was among the key players in Bilbaos best season ever. Dimtiris has improved his game a lot and this season as the 6th and sometimes the 7th player in Bilbao had 6 points and 4.3 rebounds in less than 17 minutes. An amazing tool for every team in the center position, after his great season many people believed that he would have been given a chance to compete for a spot in the Hellenic NT..



Serbia U16 earn second straight win in Riom - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U16 - Greece U16 91:77

Serbia posted the second consecutive victory at the international friendly tournament in Riom. They held off Greece to stay perfect. Greece on the other hand suffered the second consecutive loss.
Serbia and Greece exchanged baskets throughout high-flying first quarter. The Hellenes earned a 26:24 lead after ten minutes. Greece posted a 4-point lead midway through the second term but Serbia finished the half strongly and recorded a 49:45 advantage. Milanovic and Djordjevic made it 69:64 for Serbia at the final break. Greece were limited to 13 points in the fourth quarter and failed to put up a fight in the final minutes. Dusan Ristic (207-C/F-95) and Kaplanovic stepped up with 16 points each for Serbia. Nikola Rebic (185-G-95) contributed 12 points in the victory. Antreas Kefalas (195-G-95) answered with 19 points for Greece. Michalis Liapis (190-G-95) and Giorgos Diamantakos (206-C-95) accounted for 10 points each in the loss.

Serbia U16: Dusan Ristic 16+12 boards, Kaplanovic 16, Nikola Rebic 12
Greece U16: Antreas Kefalas 19, Michalis Liapis 10, Giorgos Diamantakos 10


Standings - A1
A1 Standings
 1. Panathinaikos 29-2 
 2. Olympiakos 28-3 
 3. PAOK 16-10 
 4. Aris 14-12 
 5. Marousi 13-13 
 6. Kavala 12-14 
 7. Peristeri GS 12-14 
 8. VAP Kolossos 12-14 
 9. Panionios 12-14 
 10. Ikaros 10-16 
 11. Ilysiakos 9-17 
 12. Panellinios 9-17 
 13. AEK 8-18 
 14. Iraklis 5-21 


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


IBL ownership fills void for driven Hunter - by Eurobasket News
The genesis, believe it or not, came in the middle of nowhere.

In the gyms of Estacada, Ore.

On the playgrounds of the tiny lumber town near the Mount Hood National Forest.

Deep in the mind of a young Bryan Hunter as he developed a love for basketball.

Thats where the roots of the Vancouver Volcanoes newly minted International Basketball League championship began to grow. And if Estacada isnt really in the middle of nowhere, well, you likely can see nowhere on the horizon.

It was there that Hunter developed into an all-league high school player, and it was there that he developed oversized athletic dreams.

I thought for sure I could play at a high level in college, said Hunter, now the 35-year-old coach and majority owner of the Volcanoes. I thought for sure I could make a Division I team.

Because of that, he balked when the only scholarship offers came from smaller schools.

I didnt have the proper guidance, he said. I didnt know how college basketball worked.

He ended up walking on at Clackamas Community College. He broke his thumb.

He left the game behind.

That, I think, created the void I needed to fill. The best I can do now is to help some of these guys pursue their dreams, help them play overseas, Hunter said.

Which brings us to 2008. Thats when Hunter, who owns Portland-based internet-advertising company Exitexchange, bought the Volcanoes for about $50,000.

To be honest, it was more of a hobby, he said. It was something I was passionate about. I didnt look at it as a money-making opportunity.

No, he looked at it as a way to ground the basketball current that still ran through him.

I thought I was a good judge of character and the pieces you needed to be a winning team, he said.

So, like a kid with Tinker Toys, Hunter began building. A rebounder here, a point guard there, a couple of 3-point shooters.

Hunter was recruiting players like himself people who have a basketball jones. They come out of college programs, big and small, looking for an outlet and an avenue to more lucrative overseas leagues.

That first year, Hunter served as an assistant coach. He was head coach for part of the season in 2009, then took over full-time in 2010.

I can relate being a head coach to running a company and managing employees, he said. A big portion of what youre doing is understanding what a person needs to be successful and what motivates them.

The Volcanoes, Hunters own personal Frankensteins monster, reached the IBL semifinals three straight years before breaking through last week. They defeated Edmonton 124-116 Sunday at Clark College, winning their first title.

It was just kind of, finally. We finally made it here, Hunter said. It was a lot of emotion that all the hard work paid off.

I think Ive hit the peak of that mountain. Ive made that climb. The question is, where do I go from here?

Well, first, hes buying the IBL, purchasing the league from founder Mikal Duilio. Then, hes getting married, to Anne Waters on Aug. 13.

Its all part of a journey that has led Bryan Hunter far from Estacada, Ore., even if he cant escape those childhood dreams.

I still feel young, he said. I still go out and practice with these guys. While I admit theyre better than me, I think I keep up.

Courtesy of www.columbian.com

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


Eurobasket Exclusive: Will Bynum wants to reunite with Maccabi T.A.? - by David Pick
In the music industry it's called a 'remix', in the basketball business the same concept apparently applies, especially if you're a talented NBA point guard from Chicago whose name is Will Bynum.

A source exclusively informed 'Eurobasket' that Bynum, who played for Maccabi between the 2006-2008 seasons, expressed strong interest in and is eager to return to Israel for a so-called 'remix', where he would pair up with childhood friend, Jeremy Pargo, creating one of the most talented, fastest and most athletic back court line in Europe, as they will work to win a Euroleague title. 'Bynum would love to go back to Maccabi if it made sense,' said a source with knowledge of Bynum's situation, adding, 'But I know it would be tough for Maccabi to lose him if/when the lockout ends.'

The signing of Bynum could possibly complete the missing piece of Maccabi's head coach David Blatt's puzzle as the Chi town star would undoubtedly become the most impressive and significant recruit a European team has made this summer.

Bynum aka 'Bynumite', for his explosive athletic ability, played the last three seasons in the NBA for the Detroit Pistons and still has a signed contract with the organization. However, sources close to the player confirmed that he might be interested in opting out of his contract to join Maccabi. 'He did love playing overseas and especially with Maccabi and would never turn down an opportunity to go back if it made sense.'

Israeli sources confirmed that Maccabi is negotiating contract terms with an NBA point guard. Bynum finished the past season playing in 61 games, starting in five of them and posting averages of 7.9 points, 1.2 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game.

The 28 year-old Bynum could turn out being the perfect fit for Blatt, who is in search of a recognized NBA point guard to round out his talented roster. Bynum began his college career at the University of Arizona but after his sophomore season, transferred to Georgia Tech where he helped for the 'Yellow-Jackets' and reached the NCAA Final Four championship game averaging 12.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. He first appeared in the NBA in the 2005/6 season playing 15 games for the Golden State Warriors averaging 10.8 minutes and 3.6 points. In the 2008/09 season, Bynum joined the Pistons and is playing there ever since. In Europe, Bynum finished his 2007/08 Euroleague season recording 10.6 points and 3 assists per game where in the Israeli domestic league he would post 6.8 points, 1.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists in 26 games.

Maccabi has also showed great potential interest in American Guard Javaris Crittenton (Georgia Tech), who previously played for the Dakota Wizards of the NBA D-League. Crittenton was drafted with the 19th pick in the first round of the 2007 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers and also played for the Memphis Grizzlies, Washington Wizards and China's Zhejiang Lions. Another name that is considered in the Nokia halls is that of Shooting Guard E'Twaun Moore (University of Purdue), who was selected 55th overall in the 2nd round of the 2011 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics.

To date, the yellow-and-blue inked Shawn James, Jon Scheyer, Devin Smith and TBD Bynum's former teammate Yotam Halperin (trying to overcome financial tax issues), joined by Jeremy Pargo, Guy Pnini, Lior Eliyahu, Richard Hendrix, Tal Burstein, Milan Macvan, Sofoklis Schortsanitis, David Blu, Derrick Sharp and Sean Labanowski.



Israeli Summer League 2011 Draft was in session - by David Pick
The second annual back-to-back Israeli summer league had it's official draft lottery pick today (Sunday), in the league offices located in Tel Aviv where only 55 talented players were selected out of a massive 126 athletic nominees.

The Israeli summer league allows Israeli and Jewish basketball players from around the world as well as the local domestic league athletes prove themselves worthy of playing on the big stage in the Israeli BSL. The summer league will take place in Rishon-Lezion between July 31st and August 4th.

Led by top Israeli coaches and assistants, the 5 teams made their first round picks as Israeli point guard Oded Shaashoua had his name called first. Hapoel Jerusalem big man Amit Tamir went second, and Chubrevich Alex, Moti Moscovitz and Jonathan Skjoldebrand shortly followed.

The full rosters include:

Team Paies - Head Coach: Reuven Balinko. Roster: Jonathan Skjoldebrand, Zidan Abu-Arisha, Nir Golan, Badalov Michael, Raz Nisim-CoheN, Stolero Ido, Michael Jacobsen, Ohad Cohen, Dan Bank, Yaniv Shtraus.

Team 777 - Head Coach: Azoulay Adi. Roster: Solomoviz Eyal, Bochman Iftach, Shmidt Omer, Sukar Avi, Shiran Amit, Barbi Haiim, Amit Tamir, Farhi Ofir, Dor Eliyahu, Oren Shahar, Samuel Fliitman.

Team Double Lotto - Head Coach: Harush Matan. Roster: Deri Avishai, Engel Eyal, Eiram Inam, Ida Or, Tal Ronen, Oded Shaashoua, Volfer Zafrir, Knafo Elad, Idan Rejwan, Liad Furman, Eliav Moshiaswili.

Team Strong Number - Head coach: Lior Rosen. Roster: Moti Moscovitz, Igor Simin, Brener Or, Dror Davidi, Ohana Assaf, Ben Sharoni, Omar Atiskin, Or ron, Guy Iosufovic', Uri Zohar, Gal Jacobowitz.

Team Hish-Gad - Head coach: Shai Segalovich. Roster: Chubrevich Alex, Segev Lior, Asante David, Marztiano Matan, Tomer Deri, Bier-Katz Amit, Solomon Niv, Hover Offir, Shai Schwartz, Amit Sela, Dolev Drapic.

In addition, the Israeli National U22 Team will also participate in the tournament.



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


Fortitudo Bologna targets Zare Markovski as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
According to Sportando, Fortitudo Bologna is close to hire Zare Markovski as their new Head Coach. Reportedly, the deal could be official within next 48 hours. The Macedonian specialist worked last season in France with Limoges CSP. They ended as the last ranked team in ProA with 9-21 score. Markovski worked with Armani Jeans Milano three years ago. Actually, he started 2007/08 season with Milano, but they parted ways in October of 2007. From 2005 to 2007, Markovski was a Head Coach of Caffe Maxim Virtus Bologna. He helped them reach SerieA Finals in 2007 and he also coach at the SerieA All-Star game. In the past, Zare Markovski worked with Air Avelino, Lugao Tigers, Dadussafaka, Kavadarci and Sassari. He was the Swiss league champion with Lugano in 2001.

France U16 edge Italy U16 in Riom - by Eurobasket News
France U16 - Italy U16 73:56

France posted the second win in a row at the international friendly tournament in Riom. They knocked down Italy to improve at 2-0 record. France will take on Serbia for the title tonight. Italy will face Greece looking for the initial win at the tourney.
The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter. France ensured a narrow 19:18 advantage at the first break. The hosts opened the second term on a 10:1 run to take a double digit lead. But Italy got back within five at halftime 29:34. Vildera and Lorenzo Baldasso (190-G-95) erased the deficit early in the third frame. However Les Bleus responded with a 19:6 run that gave them a 55:42 lead with one quarter remaining. Italy never got closer than 11 points in the final term as France cruised to the victory. Damien Inglis (198-F-95) knocked down 17 points to lead the hosts. Paul Lou Duwiquet (193-G-95) added 10 points for the winners. Alessandro Benvenuti replied with 14 points for Italy. Lorenzo Baldasso accounted for 9 points in defeat.

France U16: Damien Inglis 17, Paul Lou Duwiquet 10, Paul Rigot (199-G-95) 8
Italy U16: Alessandro Benvenuti 14, Lorenzo Baldasso 9


Italy U20 outscored the hosts of the Torneo Internacional de Barakaldo - by Eurobasket News
Italy U20-Spain U20 77:71

Italy U20 outscored the hosts of the Torneo Internacional de Barakaldo. The Italian team needed 77:71 as both sides are with 1-1 record after two days.
Italy opened the game with 22-16 and never looked behind after. They grabbed 31-22 midway through the second frame and reached 41:29 at the halftime. Spain did not appear to be panicking as they have in games previous, appearing happy to run the shot clock down and wait for their opportunities to penetrate. They reduced to 46:41 after 36th minutes but Italy increased to 56:47 after thirty minutes. Although the hosts won the last quarter, Italy celebrated the initial victory.
Alessandro Gentile (198-G/F-92) stepped up with 16 points for the winners, while Riccardo Moraschini (195-G-91) netted 12. De Nicolao and Traini followed them with 10 points each. Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) erupted with 33 points in the losing effort, while Gil and Josep Franch (194-PG-91) added 11 apiece.

Italy U20: Alessandro Gentile 16, Riccardo Moraschini 12, De Nicolao 10, Traini 10
Spain U20: Nikola Mirotic 33, Gil 11, Josep Franch 11


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  LITHUANIA   


Lithuania U20 recorded the second staright win at the Torneo Internacional de Barakaldo - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20-Montenegro U20 68:65

Lithuania U20 became the leader of the Torneo Internacional de Barakaldo. The Baltic state won the second straight game beating Montenegro U20 68:65.
Montenegro U20 took control early in the game and reached 21-14 after the first 10 minutes. The team lost the opener to the hosts and tried to celebrate the win in Day 2. Lithuania however edged Italy in the opener and was the favorite of the game. They bounced back with 23-14 in the second period and grabbed 37:35 halftime advantage. Both squads nailed 12 points in the third quarter as the board showed the same difference after thirty minutes. Lithuania needed 19-18 in the last frame to seal the necessary victory.
Saulius Kulvietis (203-F-91) led the way with 13 points and Giedrius Staniulis (205-C/F-91) nailed 10. Tadas Rinkunas (196-G/F-91) and Gilvydas Biruta (203-F-91) finished the game with 7 points apiece. Radosav Spasojevic (204-F-92) answered with 16 points in defeat and Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) netted 15.

Lithuania U20: Saulius Kulvietis 13, Giedrius Staniulis 10, Tadas Rinkunas 7, Gilvydas Biruta 7
Montenegro U20: Radosav Spasojevic 16, Nikola Ivanovic 15


MVP-Jonas Valanciunas paced Lithuania U19 to World Championship Title - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U19-Lithuania U19 67:85

Lithuania U19 won the 2011 U19 FIBA World Championships! The Baltic side won over Serbia U19 85:67 to became the best U19 team of the world with MVP, Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92).
Djordje Drenovac (203-F-92, agency: Interperformances) and Bogdan Bogdanovic (198-F-92) scored the first points for the Serbian team, but the Baltic State reply with 6 consecutive points. Nemanja Besovic later tied the game at 9:9, while Dovydas Redikas closed the opening period at 18:13. In the second period Lithuania led from the beginning until the end. Jonas Valanciunas scored for 26:19 and Vytenis Cizauskas (190-G-92) posted two for 39:32 that was the last points in the first half.
Jonas Valanciunas increased to 41:32 but Serbia did not give up in the game. Bogic Vujosevic (189-PG-92, agency: Beo Basket) tied the game at 44:44 after a massive lead of the Serbia squad. The winners immediately replied with 5-0 run as Arnas Butkevicius (199-F-92) scored for 49:44. Vytenis Cizauskas increased to 54:47, while Dovydas Redikas closed the lead and the third period at 62:47. Serbia meanwhile scored the first 4 points in the last quarter, but could not change the scenario. Vytenis Cizauskas scored for 65:51 and Arnas Butkevicius closed another run at 68:51. Jonas Valanciunas made a free throw for 71:56, while Dovydas Redikas increased to plus 16 with 5 minutes in the game. Jonas Valanciunas made a dunk at 77:59 as Lithuania knew about the victory and was ready to celebrate. Luka Mitrovic and Jonas Valanciunas exchanged for 81:61, but Aleksandar Cvetkovic (185-PG-93) and Bogdan Bogdanovic cut it to 65:81. Jonas Valanciunas made a dunk for the last points of the Baltic side and won MVP of the tournament.
Jonas Valanciunas recorded 36 points for the winners, while Edgaras Ulanovas (198-G-92) scored 12. Arnas Butkevicius and Vytenis Cizauskas followed them with 9 points apiece. Djordje Drenovac replied with 14 points in defeat and Bogdan Bogdanovic netted 13. Aleksandar Cvetkovic and Bogic Vujosevic produced 11 points each in the losing effort.

Serbia U19: Djordje Drenovac 14, Bogdan Bogdanovic 13, Aleksandar Cvetkovic 11, Bogic Vujosevic 11
Lithuania U19: Jonas Valanciunas 36+8 rebs, Edgaras Ulanovas 12, Arnas Butkevicius 9, Vytenis Cizauskas 9



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  MONTENEGRO   


Lithuania U20 recorded the second staright win at the Torneo Internacional de Barakaldo - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20-Montenegro U20 68:65

Lithuania U20 became the leader of the Torneo Internacional de Barakaldo. The Baltic state won the second straight game beating Montenegro U20 68:65.
Montenegro U20 took control early in the game and reached 21-14 after the first 10 minutes. The team lost the opener to the hosts and tried to celebrate the win in Day 2. Lithuania however edged Italy in the opener and was the favorite of the game. They bounced back with 23-14 in the second period and grabbed 37:35 halftime advantage. Both squads nailed 12 points in the third quarter as the board showed the same difference after thirty minutes. Lithuania needed 19-18 in the last frame to seal the necessary victory.
Saulius Kulvietis (203-F-91) led the way with 13 points and Giedrius Staniulis (205-C/F-91) nailed 10. Tadas Rinkunas (196-G/F-91) and Gilvydas Biruta (203-F-91) finished the game with 7 points apiece. Radosav Spasojevic (204-F-92) answered with 16 points in defeat and Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) netted 15.

Lithuania U20: Saulius Kulvietis 13, Giedrius Staniulis 10, Tadas Rinkunas 7, Gilvydas Biruta 7
Montenegro U20: Radosav Spasojevic 16, Nikola Ivanovic 15


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  NBA   


Deron Williams: NBA exodus possible - by Eurobasket News
Though he plans to play in Turkey during the lockout, New Jersey Nets point guard Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) will rejoin the NBA as soon as an agreement on a collective bargaining agreement is reached. But if the owners break the players and get the proposal they're pushing for, Williams believes some stars could opt to play overseas long-term.

'If the proposal (the owners) have, if that's what they're sticking with and that's what they want, then I think it would be hard for a lot of guys to come back to the NBA,' Williams said Friday in an interview at a private golf resort in San Diego.

Williams said any collective bargaining agreement that would leave stars such as Kobe Bryant making only $11 million a year -- the owners have proposed cutting players' salaries by roughly a third -- could open the door for an unprecedented exodus to Europe.

' (Kobe) could go make more money overseas, I guarantee you.' said Williams, who has a one-year, $5 million deal with Besiktas. 'If (European teams) knew he could be there for a full season, or they knew I could be there for a full season, or they knew LeBron James could be there for a full season, they'll pay more money, of course.'

If other stars follow Williams to Europe during the lockout, it could be a blow to the league's owners, giving the players' union the leverage it needs to fight off the owners' demands. Williams said he spoke with the union before agreeing to play in Turkey to make sure he wasn't damaging its cause. He said NBPA executive director Billy Hunter was in favor of the move.

'I talked to Mr. Hunter and he said he supported it,' Williams said. 'He was happy for me. He thought I made a great decision, a business decision. He was behind me.'

Williams' new coach, Ergin Ataman of Besiktas, has said he hopes to sign Bryant to play alongside Williams. But Williams can see Bryant signing elsewhere first.

'I see him going to China or somewhere,' said Williams, who teamed with Bryant to help the U.S. win the gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. 'He's big in China. I was over there with him in Beijing. He's 'The Man' over there.'

Williams said he has not spoken with Bryant, but he estimates he's heard from 10 to 15 other players, some of them superstars, since his decision to play overseas became public. He said many players are willing to follow his lead.

'I've talked to a lot of players, you would be surprised,' he said, refusing to name names. 'I talked to a few before and I knew some guys were considering it as well. But since it came out, it was just like a snowball of guys calling me (saying) 'What are you doing? When are you leaving?' And guys want to go too. They want to do it.'

Williams said he started thinking about playing overseas two years ago, when the union began telling players a lockout was likely. While he has not been allowed to speak with the Nets since the lockout was imposed on July 1, Williams made them aware of his intentions before the work stoppage.

Williams, who has two years and $34 million remaining on his deal, can opt out next summer. If the entire season is lost to the lockout, it could mean he never plays another game for the Nets. With the club scheduled to move to Brooklyn for the 2012-2013 season, that would be a crushing blow to the franchise, which traded Devin Harris, Derrick Favors and two first-round draft picks to Utah for Williams in February.

Williams said he has not yet decided whether he will opt out, but he admitted it would be unfortunate for him and the Nets if the season is canceled.

'I think it will kind of put a damper on things because I want to see where the Nets are going this season,' Williams said. 'See what kind of additions we can make, because that will definitely help. But I don't know. I still can't really say anything until the new CBA because who knows if I even can opt out? There's no telling.'

Williams spoke highly of the Nets' organization, saying he played golf with GM Billy King and coach Avery Johnson before the lockout. The club has pitched Williams on being the face of the new franchise in Brooklyn, and he likes what he's heard so far.

'They have big dreams for Brooklyn and I can kind of picture that,' he said. 'It kind of excites me. I think it can be big.'

If Williams, who had surgery on his right wrist in April, were to get hurt in Turkey, the Nets could void his contract. He said he is in the process of securing personal insurance against injury just in case. But ultimately, he isn't worried about injury.

'People say, 'Oh, you're going to get hurt,'' Williams said. 'I can get hurt playing at (the University of San Diego) or wherever I'm at. I can get hurt walking down these steps. Of course, that's a big part of it. But I also did my due diligence, researched insurance. I'll be covered.'

Some have speculated that Williams, who has made more than $40 million over his six-year career, is going overseas because he needs the money. He laughed at that notion.

'It's ridiculous,' he said. 'We've known this lockout's coming. I have plenty of money saved for the lockout purpose. Now, I don't even need to touch that money. I can invest that money. I can go grow that money. It's not something that's money-driven.

'It's more about the experience. Experience and being able to compete and play basketball. I don't want to sit around. That's what the NBA wants us to do right now. They locked us out of our gyms, they locked us out of facilities. We got to go find somewhere on our own to go hoop, to put games together. I don't have to do that. I've got a team. I'm going to go through organized practices. I'm going to be in game situations. So if the lockout is lifted, I'm going to be ready to play.'

Williams has not yet signed his contract with Besiktas, but the franchise's management team is planning to come to the United States next week to wrap everything up. While there is a clause in the contract that will allow him to return to the NBA whenever the lockout ends, he doesn't see that happening quickly.

'I don't see a deal getting done anytime soon,' he said, 'because we're so far apart.'

Williams spoke extensively with his former Utah Jazz teammate Mehmet Okur, who is from Turkey, before making his decision. He also spoke with former University of Illinois teammate Dee Brown, who has played professionally in Turkey. He did not get to speak with Allen Iverson, who played briefly for Besiktas last season.

Williams will take his wife and four kids with him to Istanbul, where the team will provide them with an apartment, a car and personal security.

'It's just different,' Williams said. 'There is no other time in my career that I'll be able to go live and play in another city, experience a different lifestyle, see new things. I'm looking forward to it.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Darius Songaila signs in Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Turkish Airlines Euroleague hopeful Galatasaray Cafe Crown bolstered its frontline by signing experienced big man Darius Songaila (6'9''-C/F-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wake Forest) for the coming season. Songaila (2.06 meters, 33 years old) returns to Europe after spending the past eight seasons in the NBA. Songaila's only Euroleague season to date was in 2002-03 with CSKA Moscow in which he averaged 12.8 points and 3.9 rebounds per game to help the team to the 2003 Barcelona Final Four, the first of eight in a row that would follow for CSKA. Since then he has played a total of 516 games for Sacramento, Chicago, Washington, New Orleans and Philadelphia in the NBA. Songailas best individual season was in 2005-06 in which he averaged 9.2 points and 4.0 rebounds in 62 games for Chicago. Last season injuries limited Songaila to just 1.6 points and 1.0 rebounds in 10 appearances. Songaila has also been a regular contributor with the Lithuanian national team, with whom he was EuroBasket 2003 champion and won an Olympic bronze medal in 2000.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Newman to remain on Spurs bench - by Eurobasket News
Spurs assistant coach Don Newman removed his name from consideration for a position as defensive coordinator for the Phoenix Suns and will remain on Gregg Popovichs coaching staff.

Saying he was pleased that Newman would continue his tenure with the club, Spurs general manager R.C. Buford confirmed Newmans decision.

Only Mike Budenholzer has been on Popovichs coaching staff longer than Newman. One of the most popular figures in the basketball organization, he has focused on coaching defense since being hired on June 28, 2004.

A former head coach at both Sacramento State and Arizona State before taking a job as an assistant on George Karls coaching staff in Milwaukee, Newman also played seven seasons in the Canadian Football League.

Courtesy of http://blog.mysanantonio.com

Players rep Mo Evans: owners proposal is the worst in sports history - by Milord Nikolic
You have to love how both sides are making the lockout into some sort of battle of good and evil. Every time you turn around theres some sort of hyper-dramatic talk about the other side, like they just started discussing euthanasia for puppies or how to steal from children. The owners are taking an unnecessarily hard line. The owners are fabricating stories of how player salaries are the driving force behind losses when theyre actually not. The owners are sinking their own ship to justify building a new one. The owners are not right in this argument. But its just a business agreement between two extremely well-compensated sides. If the owners win, theres no big change to the world, nor if the players stay strong. But depriving the fans of the game they love? That affects actual people in a meaningful way. But you wont hear much of that during this process. Both sides are too busy painting the other as a force of darkness.

Former Purdue star's next NBA destination unknown - by Eurobasket News
Will Carl Landry (6'7''-F-83, college: Purdue) return to the New Orleans Hornets after averaging 15.8 points and five rebounds in the 2011 NBA Playoffs?

Or, could the former Purdue power forward end up with the Indiana Pacers or his hometown Milwaukee Bucks?

For now, Landry is playing the waiting game as an unrestricted free agent while the NBA and the players union attempts to reach a new collective bargaining agreement.
Unlike some of his peers, the lockout isn't creating sleepless nights for the four-year NBA veteran. He earned $3 million in each of the past two seasons and says he has done a good job taking care of his money.

But because the 6-foot-9, 248-pound Landry, 28, is a free agent, he is eager to resolve his contract and learn where he will be playing next season.

'I'm not worried,' Landry said Friday afternoon. 'I'm sure the lockout will end one day. I just don't know when. A lot of guys are trying to play overseas and make a little extra cash while this lockout is going on, but unfortunately in my case, I'm a free agent, so the smart thing for me is not looking into going overseas.

'Anything can happen. You prepare for the worst and hope for the best. If I would go over there and suffer an injury, then the lockout ends and I'm not able to sign the big deal that I'm hoping for. The lockout is just going to be a matter of time. I've saved my money over the past couple of years. I will be all right.'

Along with point guard Chris Paul, Landry helped the Hornets advance to the NBA playoffs after being traded from Sacramento late in the 2010-2011 season.

Landry played extremely well in a six-game series loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. That solid performance should help Landry sign a lucrative contract.

'My dream always was to play in the NBA,' Landry said. 'Playing in New Orleans is fine. I'm comfortable there. I'm glad to be there. I feel like I was a productive player in their rotation. I brought something to the table every night. I feel wanted there.

'But I would play in Indiana for the Pacers, and I'm from Milwaukee, so I wouldn't mind going back there. You just never know where I will end up. I'm more than happy to play anywhere as long as I am playing in the NBA.'

Landry is an improbable success story. He wasn't a starter for his Milwaukee Vincent High School team and played two seasons of junior college basketball at Vincennes University, where he caught the eye of former Purdue coach Gene Keady.

In 64 games at Purdue, Landry scored 1,175 points, shooting 60.2 percent from the field.

'He is a guy who kind of reminded me of myself, because I went to junior college,' said Keady, who played football at Kansas State after a stellar junior college career. 'Junior college helped me, because I got to play more games and play good competition.

'I got better from that. One of the things I related with him when I recruited him was that I understood what junior college players go through. Because of that, I think he came here to Purdue. Giving him time to develop was a big factor in his recruitment.'

Landry, according to Keady, has taken advantage of every opportunity he has received.

'He got better every year, and then when he went to the pros, he got better,' Keady said. 'His maturation came along a little later. Some guys mature in junior high but never play much in high school.

'Carl is just the opposite. He got better and better with the experiences he got in the Big Ten. Vincennes is a good junior college program that plays good teams. That helped him. He did the right things in developing his career.'

Those things include a tireless summer approach to improvement.

'I always go back to the drawing board in the summer,' Landry said. 'You can improve your game when you have time to train and can do the things you feel like you lacked during the previous season. Working on those things each summer can give you an advantage going into the next season.

'Right now, I'm thinking about my goals for the beginning of next season. If I reach those, I'm happy. If I don't, then I know that's something I have to work on again during the next summer. I stress every summer to work on the things in which I am lacking.'

This summer, Landry's priority is improving his 3-point shooting. He wants to become a consistent 3-point threat for the team that signs him.

He also has a burning desire to continue to prove his detractors wrong. He says it has been that way since he was a high school player.

'I've been an overachiever since the first time I stepped on a basketball court,' Landry said. 'Am I surprised? No. But that's because I've made the most of every opportunity I've been given.
'If somebody tells me I can't do something, I'm going to do everything in my power to prove that I can. That's the kind of competitor that I am. I got that from my mom and my dad. I'm always trying to prove everybody wrong. I will continue to work when people don't give me respect.'

Landry would love to be an NBA All-Star. That goal motivates him, along with those who say he is one of the NBA's most underrated players.

'It's a compliment, but at the same time, it means there is room for improvement,' Landry said.

Keady has enjoyed watching Landry improve from the time he joined the Purdue program for the 2004-2005 season -- Keady's last as the Boilermakers' head coach.
'He is hard to guard down low,' Keady said. 'He learned the back-to-the-basket game through our offense and through what Matt Painter taught him. Then, he developed his perimeter shot. He is just hard to guard.'

Courtesy of www.jconline.com

Report: Shaquille ONeal to work for turner broadcasting - by Eurobasket News
he hottest made-for-TV free agent to hit the open market since Charles Barkley retired in 2000 has apparently hooked up with his new team. The recently retired Shaquille O'Neal (7'2''-C-72, college: LSU),, according to CNBC's Darren Rovell, will be working for Turner Broadcasting; likely sitting across the table from Sir Charles on TNT's Inside the NBA set.

Due to injuries and issues with his weight as a player, the post-Los Angeles career of the surefire Hall of Famer was more than a little disappointing, even considering his championship run with the Miami Heat in 2006. Still, the loquacious nature that served Shaq so well as he built up an endorsement empire upon entering the league in 1992 grew by the year, and though his deep and monotone delivery has been the source for satire for both middling stand-up comics and sportswriters alike, he should have sites like these filled up with all sorts of in-season video clips as he takes to the airwaves.

Then again, as our own Eric Freeman pointed out yesterday, O'Neal's potential addition to the Inside the NBA set (his hiring has yet to be confirmed by Turner, to say nothing of the eventual revelation of his role in the broadcasts) could move Chris Webber either away from the set, or into a diminished role on the program (halftime can only go on for so long). Webber has quickly established himself as a star analyst, he's easily the best on any of the national broadcasts of any ex-player, or at the very least tied with Steve Kerr and a country mile removed from the nearest competition. Less Chris Webber on the tube, even with his significant airtime on NBA TV, is not a good thing.

That said, as Matt Moore brought up on Saturday, Shaq could be working a few feet from Sir Charles, a man he once tussled with during Barkley's final season as a player (they've since made up, video after the jump):

We don't know Shaq's role yet, though, or even if the hiring is legit (although Rovell and his sources are usually to be trusted on matters like these). We can safely assume, as it was with Barkley's first season in 2000-01, that O'Neal will be a constant source for goofy. And we can always use more goofy in our lives.

Now we just have to figure out when Shaq's television debut will be. Hopefully sometime before the fall of 2012.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Ron Artest dishes on name change, playing overseas - by Eurobasket News
Lakers forward Ron Artest (6'7''-G/F-79, college: St.John's), in an interview with the Los Angeles Times, explained his decision to change his name to Metta World Peace and said he plans on playing overseas during the lockout.

'I changed my name because I got tired of Ron Artest, he's a (expletive),' Artest said. 'And when fans get mad at me, they can't say, 'I hate World Peace.''

Artest has a mid-August hearing with the state of California to make his name change official, The Times notes. Until then, hes still Ron Artest.

But, once NBA games begin again, 'World Peace is going on the back of my jersey, he said, so Metta is my first name. It's Buddhist, but I'm Baptist.'

Perhaps more significantly, Artest said he wants to play for either the Cheshire Jets or Glasgow Rocks of the British Basketball League during the lockout.

'The teams aren't good, but I'm going there to finish a movie, so why not?' he said.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Spurs' Parker thinks more players will head to Europe - by Eurobasket News
As the NBA lockout continues, NBA players are looking at Europe as a viable option should the lockout eat into next season.

Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) made waves when he agreed in principle to play in Turkey and now the question is if other NBA stars will follow and San Antonio Spurs' Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-80) does see other players heading abroad.

'If the strike continues, it may be that the majority of NBA players come to try their luck in Europe.'

As for Parker, he continued to reiterate that he would wait until January to decide whether or not to play for France should the lockout still be in effect. However, as far as the lockout is concerned, Parker put is succinctly.

'I went to the meeting in New York before coming to France. It's complicated, it would take too long to explain. This is a problem for the rich.'

One of the ripple effects of the lockout is the insurance matters for foreign NBA players. Currently, this issue has not been settled for Parker and although he feels the issue will be settled in due time, he made it clear he, and Bulls' Joakim Noah, would not play play without insurance.

'But, like me, like others, will not play if it is not insured ...'

As for the Olympic qualification tournament in Lithuania, Parker knows what the French National Team must do.

'The qualification for the Olympic Games. There are two ways to do this: either by going to the final or finishing in the top five and then by playing the pre-Olympic tournament.'

Courtesy of http://projectspurs.com

The Yao Effect - by Alex Yam
2011 will forever be remembered in NBA history. First because of the lockout of the NBA season, how ever long it goes, but 2nd, and perhaps the most important and historic of the two, is the retirement of global icon and ambassador of the game of basketball, Yao Ming.

Lets pause for a second and reflect what he actually brought to Basketball, Yao brought an entire country of fans, one that has over 1.3 billion people, and counting. The admiration of an entire country, the popularity of billions, increasing the NBA's global footprint by leaps and bounds. Sadly, in the end, it was his 7'6, 300 plus lb body that broke down. There will likely never be another Yao Ming, one that was as graceful on the court as he was off it, there may be more players from China, but none will ever impact the sport like Yao did, probably not in any sport, let alone basketball.

For his contributions to global basketball, Yao Ming should and will be inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, some may argue, he only played a short span (9yrs, parts of the last few), but his induction will most certainly be his contribution as well as his on court abilities/statistics. When healthy, he was the best center in the game, he represented his country with grace and dignity, something sports lacks in the present day. We will always remember Yao, whether a basketball fan or not, for his contributions off the court, which outweigh what he did on it.



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  NCAA1   


Storms ruin Keady Court; new floor to be installed - by Milord Nikolic
Strong springs storms, combined with construction, sent water surging onto the floor at Mackey Arena, and the floor has become so warped it is unusable. Associate athletics director Tom Schott said a new court might be a blessing in disguise for Mackey, which is undergoing renovations.
'A lot of things are going on at Mackey, and a new floor was going to be part of it,' Schott said. 'We planned to wait a year, because the new tunnel was going to be a part of it, but that's a minor obstacle we'll have to overcome. Again, timing is everything. The Big Ten has a new logo, so we'll be able to incorporate the new logo a year earlier than we would have been able to.'
The floor will continue to be called Keady Court, after former coach Gene Keady. Schott said insurance will cover the cost of replacing the floor because the damage was caused by water.
Purdue, which went 26-8 last year, will be led by senior forward Robbie Hummel. He missed last season after tearing his ACL in preseason practice.

USA nip Australia to clinch fifth place in Riga - by Eurobasket News
USA U19 - Australia U19 78:77

USA claimed the fifth position at the U19 World Championship in Latvia. They prevailed against Australia in the final game at the tournament. Tim Hardaway Jr. (6'5''-G-92) knocked down 21 points to pace the North American team.
The Emus started the game strongly. They grabbed a 24:21 lead at the first break. Australia maintained the lead throughout the second term. The Emus posted a 43:39 halftime advantage. The USA bounced back in the third term. They erased the deficit and posted a 60:59 lead with one quarter remaining. The United States stayed in charge in the fourth frame. However Drmic put the Emus in front by one late in regulation. The USA found their hero in Jeremy Lamb as he accounted for two points and sealed the win for the USA. Doug McDermott (6'7''-F-92) posted 13 points, while Meyers Leonard (7'0''-C-92) added 10 points in the win. Hugh Greenwood (6'3''-G-92) answered with 26 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for Australia. Jackson Aldridge (6'1''-PG-92) and Mitchell Creek (6'6''-F/G-92) netted 9 points apiece in the loss.

USA U19: Tim Hardaway Jr. 21, Doug McDermott 13, Meyers Leonard 10
Australia U19: Hugh Greenwood 26, Jackson Aldridge 9, Mitchell Creek 9


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  POLAND   


Przemyslaw Karnowski leads Poland to the seventh place in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Poland U19 - Croatia U19 82:70

Poland wrapped up their U19 World Championship campaign with victory. They rallied past Croatia to clinch the seventh place in the ladder. Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) knocked down 29 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the winners.
It does not look good for Poland in the opening quarter. Croatia erupted for 26 points in the first frame to take an 8-point lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the second stanza. Croatia ensured a 46:38 halftime advantage. But Poland turned things around in the third term. Poland capped the frame with a 12:2 run to secure a 60:57 advantage with one quarter remaining. Przemyslaw Karnowski and Michal Michalak (194-G-93) opened up a double-digit lead for Poland midway through the fourth quarter 71:61. Croatia could not recover in the dying minutes and had to surrender at the end. Michal Michalak notched 23 points, while Grzegorz Grochowski (176-PG-93) added 12 points and 7 assists for Poland. Dario Saric (207-F/C-94) answered with 21 points and 9 rebounds for Croatia. Boris Barac (206-F-92) had 16 points in the loss.

Poland U19: Przemyslaw Karnowski 29, Michal Michalak 23, Grzegorz Grochowski 12
Croatia U19: Dario Saric 21, Boris Barac 16


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  PUERTO RICO   


Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Angel Daniel VASSALLO
  Guaynabo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 22.5
 1. Vassallo, Guaynabo22.5 
 2. Ramos, Quebradillas22.3 
 3. Johnson, Humacao21.2 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon20.8 
 5. Villegas, Coamo19.1 
 6. Ayuso, Arecibo18.3 
 7. Harris, San German18.3 
 8. Randolph, Isabela18.0 
 9. Carmona, Mayaguez17.0 
 10. Clinch, Isabela16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shavlik RANDOLPH
  Isabela
  (208-F-83)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Randolph, Isabela12.3 
 2. Harris, San German12.3 
 3. Narvaez, Coamo11.6 
 4. Pruitt, Guaynabo11.5 
 5. Ramos, Quebradillas10.5 
 6. Lloreda, San G.10.0 
 7. Sweetney, Santurce9.1 
 8. Clemente, Mayaguez9.1 
 9. Rickert, Bayamon8.7 
 10. Johnson, Humacao8.5 
Assists Per Game
 Daniel BROWN
  Quebradillas
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Brown, Quebradillas5.9 
 2. Rivera, San German5.5 
 3. Dalmau, Bayamon5.5 
 4. Clinch, Isabela4.5 
 5. Clemente, Humacao4.4 
 6. Guzman, Guaynabo4.4 
 7. Rivera, Mayaguez4.2 
 8. Bruton, Quebradill.4.1 
 9. Apodaca, Quebradil.4.1 
 10. Copeland, San G.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Darnell HINSON
  Isabela
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Hinson, Isabela1.8 
 2. Rivera, Mayaguez1.6 
 3. Clinch, Isabela1.5 
 4. Hodge, Santurce1.4 
 5. Mojica, Bayamon1.3 
 6. Chaney, Santurce1.3 
 7. Santiago, Santurce1.3 
 8. Dalmau, Bayamon1.2 
 9. Carmona, Mayaguez1.2 
 10. Robinson, Mayagu.1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Kleon PENN
  Humacao
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Penn, Humacao2.6 
 2. Santiago, Arecibo2.0 
 3. Sanchez, Santurce1.9 
 4. Aubry, Arecibo1.7 
 5. Lee, Bayamon1.6 
 6. Randolph, Isabela1.4 
 7. Harris, San German1.4 
 8. Ramos, Quebradillas1.2 
 9. Freije, Coamo1.1 
 10. Robinson, Mayagu.1.0 


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


Spain U18 recorded the second straight win at the Torneo Internacional de Murcia - by Eurobasket News
Russia U18-Spain U18 70:82

Spain U18 recorded the second straight win at the Torneo Internacional de Murcia. The hosts of the tournament overcame Russia U18 82:70.
After an easy win in the opener over Luxembourg U18, Spain grabbed 25-19 after the first period. Moreover the hosts did not even think of slowing down and won the second period 19-17 for 8-point halftime advantage. In the third quarter both squads nailed 18 points each that brought the same difference on the board. Spain added 20-16 in the last period to seal the victory.
Alejandro Abrines chipped in 25 points to lead all the winners, while Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) netted 17. Daniel Diez (199-F-93) ended up with 12 points and Hernangomez scored 6. Levsihn ended up with 19 points for Russia, while Andrey Loginov (204-F-93) and Pavel Khrebtov (197-F-93) scored 11 each.
In the last day of the competition Spain U18 will face Croatia U18.

Russia U18: Levsihn 19, Andrey Loginov 11, Pavel Khrebtov 11
Spain U18: Alejandro Abrines 25, Jaime Fernandez 17, Daniel Diez 12



Russia U19 clinched third place in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Argentina U19-Russia U19 72:77

Russia U19 clinched third place in Riga at the 2011 U19 FIBA World Championships. The Russian overcame Argentina U19 for the third place 77:72.
Both teams desired to finish the campaign with the win after the losses at the semifinals last night. They both nailed 19 points in the opening quarter and continued the battle in the second frame. Carlos Paredes nailed three for 34:27, while Dmitry Kulagin (195-G-92) reduced to 40:35 at the halftime. Franco Giorgetti (202-F-92) gave the Latin American team the biggest lead in the game at 51:40, but they could not keep the lead for good. Dmitry Kulagin closed the period at 53:50 and the last stanza belonged to Russia. Sergey Karasev (200-F-93) tied the game at 53:53 early in the last and Vladislav Trushkin (200-F-93) nailed from the arc for 58:57. Sergey Karasev and Dmitry Kulagin made four free throws at the very end for the final success.
Dmitry Kulagin top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 8 rebounds, while Aleksandr Gudumak (204-F-93) and Sergey Karasev netted 17 each. Vladislav Trushkin ended up with 10 points in the winning effort. Franco Giorgetti answered with 18 points in the losing effort and Pablo Perez (202-F-92) scored 13.

Argentina U19: Franco Giorgetti 18, Pablo Perez 13, Juan Giaveno (175-PG-92) 10
Russia U19: Dmitry Kulagin 24+8 rebs, Aleksandr Gudumak 17, Sergey Karasev 17, Vladislav Trushkin 10



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  SCOTLAND   


Andorra Fights Back in Win Over Scotland - by Eurobasket News
Following Friday nights big win over Andorra in the Summer Slam, Scotlands senior men took the court in the second game of a two game series. The Peak was packed with fans, including members of the Future Starz Camp, a chance for the u12 girls and boy to receive coaching from the National Team Coaches.

Immediately once the game began, Andorra proved their ability to move the ball with speed and precision, bringing a much different display of talent than the previous night. Though Scotland fell behind, both teams managed to enter double-digits by the end of the first quarter. The score, Andorra leading 29-20, showed that the fight for the win had begun. Moving into the second quarter, both teams established a presence in the key and started a physical battle to grab the ball as it pounded off the backboard. Kieron once again supplied his team with the needed power and height for rebounding, but Andorras quickness to the basket was difficult for the Scottish men to defend. Towards the end of the half, the gap in the score widened as Scotland struggled to maintain possession of the ball. As the teams headed off the court, it was evident to the spectators that Scotland needed to deliver a better show during the second half as they trailed Andorra, 44-32.

As the second half began, both teams slowed down the pace of the game. Andorra remained content with their 12 point lead, while Scotland continued to struggle for the points needed to diminish the gap in the score. With their drives toward the basket proving unsuccessful, the Scottish players had to remain on the outside, hoping the shots would begin to fall into the basket. By the end of the third quarter, Andorra still had the lead, forcing Scotland to quicken their pace and put all their effort into the final minutes of the game.

Andorra gained control of the game from the beginning which ensured their win over Scotland. They succeeded in steadily increasing their lead until it became too difficult for the Scottish players to catch up. The final score of the game was 78-65.

At the conclusion of the game, teams from Scotland and Wales will roll onto the court to begin the Celtic Cup 2011, a tournament provided by British Wheelchair Basketball. The third and final game of the day will be between the u18 men of Scotland and Norway.
Courtesy of: http://www.basketballscotland.co.uk

Scotland Raises Excitement for the Slam in Win Against Andorra - by Eurobasket News
An international match between Scotlands senior men and Andorra opened the second weekend of the 2011 Summer Slam.

Much of the buzz about the game circled around Kieron Acharas return to captain the men this weekend. As the game began, the bleachers were full and even the sidelines were lined with fans. This game especially provided an opportunity for younger kids to come and learn about the game by watching an impressive show by the senior players.

The game started with both sides matching each other in points. The score remained low after the first quarter, with Scotland in the lead 16-12. However, Scotland picked up the momentum and extended their lead once the second quarter began. Ifadade Thomas continually worked his way past the Andorra players, moving quickly through the key and towards the basket. Scotland began to work together with a series of precise passing, freeing up men under the basket to lay the ball in. The score continued its rapid climb during the second quarter, ending with Scotland in the lead, 51-32. Cheers from the sidelines displayed the excitement about this 19 point lead.

The second half began with an eagerness to continue lengthening the lead over Andorra. Scotland seemed to be one step ahead of Andorras men on defense, quickly tipping the ball away before the offense could gather around the basket for a shot. Kieron made himself a permanent presence under the basket, rebounding the ball for Scotland and quickly beginning the counter-attack towards the other end of the court. With the lead remaining around 20 points for much of the third quarter, the Scottish players began to relax and took the chance to show-off some skillful maneuvers to move the ball past Andorra and towards the basket. With only one quarter to go, the low score of the first quarter seemed to be forgotten. Scotland led the game 70-46. With this lead, the players excitement was evident during the fourth quarter. Again, they picked up the speed of the game, launching long passes down the court to be received by players posted under the hoop, ready to score again. The game concluded with a final score of 86-65, Scotland winning the first game of the weekend.

The excitement continues on Saturday for all age groups beginning with a Future Starz camp for the u12 boys and girls invited. Along with games played by the u18 teams from Scotland and Norway, the Celtic Cup will be held on behalf of British Wheelchair Basketball. This weekend provides a chance for players of all age groups to gather at the Peak in Stirling to show off their basketball skills.
Courtesy of: http://www.basketballscotland.co.uk

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  SERBIA   


MVP-Jonas Valanciunas paced Lithuania U19 to World Championship Title - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U19-Lithuania U19 67:85

Lithuania U19 won the 2011 U19 FIBA World Championships! The Baltic side won over Serbia U19 85:67 to became the best U19 team of the world with MVP, Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92).
Djordje Drenovac (203-F-92, agency: Interperformances) and Bogdan Bogdanovic (198-F-92) scored the first points for the Serbian team, but the Baltic State reply with 6 consecutive points. Nemanja Besovic later tied the game at 9:9, while Dovydas Redikas closed the opening period at 18:13. In the second period Lithuania led from the beginning until the end. Jonas Valanciunas scored for 26:19 and Vytenis Cizauskas (190-G-92) posted two for 39:32 that was the last points in the first half.
Jonas Valanciunas increased to 41:32 but Serbia did not give up in the game. Bogic Vujosevic (189-PG-92, agency: Beo Basket) tied the game at 44:44 after a massive lead of the Serbia squad. The winners immediately replied with 5-0 run as Arnas Butkevicius (199-F-92) scored for 49:44. Vytenis Cizauskas increased to 54:47, while Dovydas Redikas closed the lead and the third period at 62:47. Serbia meanwhile scored the first 4 points in the last quarter, but could not change the scenario. Vytenis Cizauskas scored for 65:51 and Arnas Butkevicius closed another run at 68:51. Jonas Valanciunas made a free throw for 71:56, while Dovydas Redikas increased to plus 16 with 5 minutes in the game. Jonas Valanciunas made a dunk at 77:59 as Lithuania knew about the victory and was ready to celebrate. Luka Mitrovic and Jonas Valanciunas exchanged for 81:61, but Aleksandar Cvetkovic (185-PG-93) and Bogdan Bogdanovic cut it to 65:81. Jonas Valanciunas made a dunk for the last points of the Baltic side and won MVP of the tournament.
Jonas Valanciunas recorded 36 points for the winners, while Edgaras Ulanovas (198-G-92) scored 12. Arnas Butkevicius and Vytenis Cizauskas followed them with 9 points apiece. Djordje Drenovac replied with 14 points in defeat and Bogdan Bogdanovic netted 13. Aleksandar Cvetkovic and Bogic Vujosevic produced 11 points each in the losing effort.

Serbia U19: Djordje Drenovac 14, Bogdan Bogdanovic 13, Aleksandar Cvetkovic 11, Bogic Vujosevic 11
Lithuania U19: Jonas Valanciunas 36+8 rebs, Edgaras Ulanovas 12, Arnas Butkevicius 9, Vytenis Cizauskas 9



Serbia U16 earn second straight win in Riom - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U16 - Greece U16 91:77

Serbia posted the second consecutive victory at the international friendly tournament in Riom. They held off Greece to stay perfect. Greece on the other hand suffered the second consecutive loss.
Serbia and Greece exchanged baskets throughout high-flying first quarter. The Hellenes earned a 26:24 lead after ten minutes. Greece posted a 4-point lead midway through the second term but Serbia finished the half strongly and recorded a 49:45 advantage. Milanovic and Djordjevic made it 69:64 for Serbia at the final break. Greece were limited to 13 points in the fourth quarter and failed to put up a fight in the final minutes. Dusan Ristic (207-C/F-95) and Kaplanovic stepped up with 16 points each for Serbia. Nikola Rebic (185-G-95) contributed 12 points in the victory. Antreas Kefalas (195-G-95) answered with 19 points for Greece. Michalis Liapis (190-G-95) and Giorgos Diamantakos (206-C-95) accounted for 10 points each in the loss.

Serbia U16: Dusan Ristic 16+12 boards, Kaplanovic 16, Nikola Rebic 12
Greece U16: Antreas Kefalas 19, Michalis Liapis 10, Giorgos Diamantakos 10


Marko Cakarevic heads to Partizan - by Eurobasket News
Partizan landed Marko Cakarevic (200-F/G-88, agency: Interperformances). The 23-year-old forward spent the last season in Radnicki. He averaged 8.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game in Adriatic League. In Serbian League his stats read 12.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.9 assists per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Marko Cakarevic into Serbian League All-Defensive Team. He also made it into All-Serbian League 2nd Team. Marko Cakarevic was the member of Serbian U19 and U20 National Teams.


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  SLOVAKIA   


Inter Bratislava and Astrum Levice to compete in NBL - by Tomas Kottra
When BK SPU Nitra has announced their plans to leave Slovak Extraliga in winter 2011, there were some doubts that this can happen. It did not.
But the only reason why BK SPU Nitra will stay in Extraliga is that two spots offered by Czech Matoni NBL were taken by another Slovak clubs- Astrum Levice and BK Inter Bratislava. A strange situation leads Extraliga to start season with only 9 participants counting in second team with home in Levice, but named Onyx Levice.
'It doesn't mean we will leave Slovak Etraliga,' said earlier Lubos Pohanka, manager of Astrum Levice. SBA has also requested BK Inter Bratislava to form second team to compete in Slovakia, but it was too late after proving their start earlier, what was one of terms made by Czech NBL to accept new teams from Slovakia.

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


Former NT player Hasan Rizvic returns to Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Former Slovenian National Team center Hasan Rizvic (212-C-84) is back to Ukraine. He signed a deal with Azovmash Mariupole, where he played from 2008 to 2010. Rizvic penned a two-year contract.
Hasan Rizvic heads to Azovmash from Unics Kazan, where he spent last season. He tallied 4.3 points and 2.9 rebounds per game in PBL. In EuroCup the centre posted 5.6 points, 4.3 boards per appearance. In VTB League Hasan Rizvic delivered 8.5 points and 3.4 rebounds. He helped Unics win the EuroCup title and a spot for Euroleague 2011/12.
Hasan Rizvic was Eurobasket.com All-VTB League Center of the Year -10 as a member of Azovmash. He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Bosman Player of the Year -10. Rizvic and Azovmash won two Ukrainian championship titles in a row.

Union Olimpija eyes Bracey Wright - by Eurobasket News
According to Kosarka.si, Union Olimpija wants to sign Bracey Wright (191-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Indiana) for the next season. Reportedly, they are close to agree a deal. Wright started last season in France as a member of Paris-Levallois. He played 11 games in ProA registering 9.2 ppg, 1.7 rpg and 1.8 apg. In January, Wright moved to Cedevita Zagreb. He helped them reach EuroCup Semifinals with 16.7 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.5 apg for 10 games. Eurobasket awarded Wright with All-EuroCup 3rd Team -11. In Croatian league, Wright had 13.7 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.7 apg. Bracey Wright played for DKV Joventut in 2008/09 season. He also has experience from Oostende, Aris and Minnesota Timberwolves. Union Olimpija will compete in Euroleague, Adriatic league and Slovenian league next season.

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  SPAIN   


Bilbao Basket and Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca part ways - by Eurobasket News
Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca (212-C-83) is no longer a member of Bizkaia Bilbao Basket. The Spanish team decided not to exercise option for 2011/12 season and Hernandez-Sonseca immediately became a free agent. The experienced big guy joined Bilbao last summer from DKV Joventut. He appeared 36 times in ACB for Bilbao averaging 4.1 points and 3.6 rebounds. It seems that was not enough for him to secure an extension. Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca played for DKV Joventut from 2007 to 2010. Season 2008/09, was the best one for Hernandez-Sonseca as he registered 10.8 ppg and 4.9 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. In ACB, he had 7.9 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 1.1 bpg that season. In the past, Hernandez-Sonseca spent yew years with Real Madrid. He played for the Spanish B National Team in 2003.

Italy U20 outscored the hosts of the Torneo Internacional de Barakaldo - by Eurobasket News
Italy U20-Spain U20 77:71

Italy U20 outscored the hosts of the Torneo Internacional de Barakaldo. The Italian team needed 77:71 as both sides are with 1-1 record after two days.
Italy opened the game with 22-16 and never looked behind after. They grabbed 31-22 midway through the second frame and reached 41:29 at the halftime. Spain did not appear to be panicking as they have in games previous, appearing happy to run the shot clock down and wait for their opportunities to penetrate. They reduced to 46:41 after 36th minutes but Italy increased to 56:47 after thirty minutes. Although the hosts won the last quarter, Italy celebrated the initial victory.
Alessandro Gentile (198-G/F-92) stepped up with 16 points for the winners, while Riccardo Moraschini (195-G-91) netted 12. De Nicolao and Traini followed them with 10 points each. Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) erupted with 33 points in the losing effort, while Gil and Josep Franch (194-PG-91) added 11 apiece.

Italy U20: Alessandro Gentile 16, Riccardo Moraschini 12, De Nicolao 10, Traini 10
Spain U20: Nikola Mirotic 33, Gil 11, Josep Franch 11


Spain U18 recorded the second straight win at the Torneo Internacional de Murcia - by Eurobasket News
Russia U18-Spain U18 70:82

Spain U18 recorded the second straight win at the Torneo Internacional de Murcia. The hosts of the tournament overcame Russia U18 82:70.
After an easy win in the opener over Luxembourg U18, Spain grabbed 25-19 after the first period. Moreover the hosts did not even think of slowing down and won the second period 19-17 for 8-point halftime advantage. In the third quarter both squads nailed 18 points each that brought the same difference on the board. Spain added 20-16 in the last period to seal the victory.
Alejandro Abrines chipped in 25 points to lead all the winners, while Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) netted 17. Daniel Diez (199-F-93) ended up with 12 points and Hernangomez scored 6. Levsihn ended up with 19 points for Russia, while Andrey Loginov (204-F-93) and Pavel Khrebtov (197-F-93) scored 11 each.
In the last day of the competition Spain U18 will face Croatia U18.

Russia U18: Levsihn 19, Andrey Loginov 11, Pavel Khrebtov 11
Spain U18: Alejandro Abrines 25, Jaime Fernandez 17, Daniel Diez 12



*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


Tony Gugino splits ways with Boncourt - by Eurobasket News
Tony Gugino (207-C-86, college: Hillsdale) has decided not to renew contract with Boncourt. The 25-year-old centre played for the Red Team since 2009. Last season he tallied 15.1 points, 9.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 2.6 steals and 1.5 blocks per game. In 2010 Tony Gugino earned Eurobasket.com All-Swiss LNA Honourable Mention. Boncourt thus will enter the market looking for two import players for the next season.


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


Gelisim Koleji signs Kaan Isbilen - by Eurobasket News
Kaan Isbilen (205-C-83) is a new member of Gelisim Koleji. The Turkish big guy penned a deal for the next season. He arrives from Selcuk, where he spent 2010/11. Isbilen appeared 21 times in TB2L averaging 4.6 points and 2.5 rebounds. They reached TB2L Semifinals. Before Selcuk, Kaan Isbilen spent one season with Pamukkale. He had 11.8 ppg and 5.7 rpg for them in 22 TB2L games. In 2008/09, he played for Bursa and Ormanspor Ankara. Isbilen also has experience from Izmir, Vestel, Samsun and Karsiyaka.
Gelisim Koleji also signed Sertay Gursu (195-G-87, agency: EM-PA) last week. He arrived from Vestelspor Manisa, where he had 8.6 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.6 assists. Gursu started last season with Selcuk. He had 10.7 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 1.9 apg for them in 11 games. Before Vestel and Selcuk, Sertay Gursu spent two years with Genc Banvitliler. He was their best player in both seasons. In 2008/09, Gursu had 19.5 ppg and 3.8 rpg in 24 games. Two years ago, he averaged 17.6 ppg and 3.1 rpg. In the past, Sertay Gursu played for FMV Isikspor and Uludag Universitesi. In 2008 and 2009, he was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish TB2L Honorable Mention.

Anadolu Efes targets Jarvis Hayes - by Eurobasket News
According to Turkbasket.com, Anadolu Efes has intention to sign former NBA player Jarvis Hayes (201-G/F-81, agency: David Lee services, college: Georgia) for the next season. Reportedly, the Turkish giant was interested in Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket), but after he decided to stay with Olympiakos Anadolu Efes moved on and now targets Hayes. The American SG/SF spent last season with Aliaga Petkim. He joined them in January averaging 16.3 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.2 assists for 15 games.
Jarvis Hayes played for the New Jersey Nets from 2008 to 2010. He had 7.8 ppg and 2.4 rpg in their second season together. In 2007/08, Hayes was a member of Detroit Pistons averaging 6.7 points and 2.2 rebounds for 82 games. In the past, he also spent four years with the Washington Wizards. In 2004/05, he had 10.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg in 54 NBA games. Jarvis Hayes is a University of Georgia product, where he graduated in 2003.

Turkish National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Turkish National Team 2011
#s#
Baris Ermis
Ermis
Izzet Turkyilmaz
Turkyilmaz
Cenk Akyol
Akyol
Kerem Gonlum
Gonlum
Kerem Tunceri
Tunceri
#e#5
Baris Ermis 194-G-85 Banvit Turkey
Izzet Turkyilmaz 210-F-90 Banvit Turkey
Cenk Akyol 196-G-87 Anadalo Efes Turkey
Kerem Gonlum 208-C/F-77 Anadalo Efes Turkey
Kerem Tunceri 190-G-79 Anadalo Efes Turkey
Dogus Balbay 185-G-89 Anadalo Efes Turkey
Sinan Guler 193-G-83 Anadalo Efes Turkey
Emir Preldzic 206-F-87 Fener.Ulker Turkey
Oguz Savas 208-C-87 Fener.Ulker Turkey
Omer Onan 194-G-78 Fener.Ulker Turkey
Sertac Sanli 212-F/C-91 Galatasaray Turkey
Ender Arslan 190-G-83 Galatasaray Turkey
Furkan Aldemir 207-F-91 Galatasaray Turkey
Omer Asik 213-C-86 Chicago B. USA
Semih Erden 211-C-87 Cleveland C. USA
Ersan Ilyasova 207-F-87 Milwaukee B. USA
Hedo Turkoglu 206-F-79 Orlando M. USA
Enes Kanter 208-C-92 Utah Jazz USA

Orhun Ene Head Coach Banvit Turkey


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


Kings Survive Furious Alliance Rally to Hang On, 88-85 - by David Edole
By Dave Davis July 8, 2011

The Kings withstood a strong fourth-quarter rally by Alliance to win, 88-85, in New Breed Basketball Association Thursday night action at the Ronald Charles gymnasium.

The Kings dominated play for three quarters and looked well on their way to an easy victory, but Alliance showed why many fans expect them to be among the leagues elite -- outscoring the Kings 49-34 after intermission.

The Kings star players, point guard Stephen O'Reilly (180-G)< and Craig Williams (205-F-89) scored 13 and 11 first half points respectively to lead an attack that propelled them to an 18-point lead going into the locker room at the half.

The lead would swell to as much a 25 points early in the third, but nearing the end of that period Alliance picked up their defensive intensity. Led by 10 points from forward Warren Christian, they outscored the Kings 19-16 to close the third quarter down by 15 at 70-55.

The final quarter was all-out war. Things got very physical, and the Kings OReilly suffered a nasty gash over his right eye that knocked him out of the game and into the hospital.

Without the Kings best ballhandler, Alliance pounced. They were flying on defense, coming up with steals, diving for every loose ball while their offense continued to cut into the lead.

Christian scored eight of his 18 second half points in the fourth, and Andre McIntosh also had eight as Alliance went on a 25-7 run to open the quarter and took an 80-77 lead to, the delight of the many fans hoping for the upset.

But the Kings Williams, with the game in the balance and his team faltering, took over on both ends of the floor down the stretch. He came up with some key rebounds and several blocks, and scored 11 of his teams 18 points in the period as they went on an 11-5 run to close out the game and hold on for the 88-85 victory.

As good as Williams was down the stretch, Alliance had no one to blame but themselves for coming up short. They missed 10 of 13 free throws with the game in the balance.

Williams led 11 Kings in the scoring column with a game-high 28 points while grabbing 12 rebounds. OReilly was the only other Kings player in double figures with 13 points, six assists, and three steals in his abbreviated night. Twelve Alliance players got into the scoring column led by Christian, with 25 points and eight rebounds, and McIntosh who finished with 15 points and eight rebounds.



Boys Dem Make Statement by Routing Lakers - by David Edole
The defense of Boys Dem smothered the Lakers.Boys Dem Coach Keith Swanston said Saturday's match with the Lakers was a statement game, and when it was over his team had done all the talking.

Swanton's charges shellacked the struggling Lakers, 100-59, at the Ronald Charles Gymnasium on Saturday, making a huge statement to the rest of the league.

Boys Dem is easily the youngest team in the league, but fans who have followed the St. Croix summer league over the last couple of years have seen these youngsters mature into players who will challenge for this years championship trophy.

The team has depth at just about every position, especially the point, where they have three or four guards who could start for any team in the league. This team can flat out shoot, as was witnessed Saturday by the Lakers. The Lakers' zone defense was shredded by 14 three-pointers, and they just did not have the bodies to stay with Boys Dem in any other defensive scheme.

By halftime the Lakers, who also had two starters out, were down by 22 points at 48-26 and things did not get any better after intermission. Boys Dem was even better defensively in the second half, and outscored the Lakers 52-33 for a final score of 100-59.

Every player on the Boys Dem bench got into the scoring column, led by Steve Gardner (170-G-85, college: J.and Wales, FL) 20 points. Zomari Swanston had 17 and Wilson Ferrance (191-G) added 12. Point guard Glen Coggins dished out a game high 10 assist for Boys Dem. The Lakers got 16 points from S. Scatliffe and 12 from Turrel Thomas.

In the early game the Hoyas Karl John scored 15 points and grabbed 11 boards to lead his team to an 87-74 victory over Alliance. John got good offensive support from Darnel Hendrickson, Eddie Castillo, and Rubio Heywood, who finished with 16, 13, and 12 points respectively. Defensively his brother Kurt Tennis Man John was a monster under the boards; grabbing 12 rebounds while swatting away seven shots. Alliance was led by their most consistent scorer over the last few games, Warren Christian, with a game high 22 points and Jerome Nathaniel who finished with 16, eight assist and eight rebounds.

By Dave Davis July 10, 2011


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  URUGUAY   


Three teams already advanced for the Metro semifinal games - by Hector Lopez
Terrence Shelman (198-F-78) scored 20 points and grabbed 15 rebounds leading Nacional to beat Urunday 87-73 to take number 1 for the Metro League semifinal games for a second promotion to the Uruguayan League 2012. For Urunday Steven Toyloy (203-C-87, college: Cincinnati) netted 22 points with 12 rebounds. Nacional will play Goes or Urunday, which are tied for numeber four Larraaga won number 3 for the semifinals after beating 89 -86 Goes, number 4. Tabare already won the first promotion. The resuls and main scorers for the second stage last round were:
Larranaga 89 - Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) 22 points 6 rebounds 4 blocks
Goes 86 - Johnny Rodriguez (197-F-83) 27 points 4 rebounds
- - -
Atenas 85 - Quentin Smith (205-C-77, college: Mississippi St.) 31 points 11 rebounds
Tabare 61 - Ivan Loriente (186-G-92) 17 points, Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles) 4 points 5 rebounds
Standings for the second stage: Tabare 24 points, Nacional 23, Larranaga 23, Goes 21.5, Urunday 21 Atenas 21.
Next games
Monday 11 - Atenas vs. Urunday (The winner will play the semifinals)
Thursday 14 - Nacional (1) vs. Atenas or Urunday (0)
Friday 15 - Larranaga (1) vs. Goes (0)


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


Marinos take 3-1 lead in LPB Finals - by Eurobasket News
LPB Finals, Game 4: Marinos - Cocodrilos 80-74

Game Four of the LPB Finals was played last night. Marinos celebrated 80-74 home win for 3-1 lead in the series. Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) stepped up for the hosts with 18 points. Robert Battle (204-C-81, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Drexel) followed him with 16, while Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances) added one point less. In Cocodrilos, Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) shined with double-double of 18 points and 16 rebounds. Juan Herrera (197-F-81) and Carl Elliott (193-G-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) had 16 and 15 points respectively. Game Five is scheduled for today and Marinos will be the hosts again.
Marinos took 1-0 lead in the series and Cocodrilos replied with 83-77 victory in Game Two. Jack Michael Martinez stepped up for the hosts in that meeting with double-double of 24 points and 13 rebounds. In Game Three, Marinos was too strong for Cocodrilos 86-78. Smith Donta was a key player for the hosts scoring 26 points.

Marinos: Axiers Sucre 18, Robert Battle 16, Oscar Torres 15
Cocodrilos: Jack Michael Martinez 18+16 boards, Juan Herrera 16, Carl Elliott 15

*****************************************************
  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U19   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  LTU
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 23
 1. Valanciunas, LTU23.0 
 2. Barac, CRO18.7 
 3. Ahmed, EGY18.5 
 4. Saric, CRO18.1 
 5. Michalak, POL17.4 
 6. Greenwood, AUS17.1 
 7. Pierre, CAN16.9 
 8. Lamb, USA16.2 
 9. Kulagin, RUS15.9 
 10. Dukulis, LAT15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  LTU
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 13.9
 1. Valanciunas, LTU13.9 
 2. Ahmed, EGY12.3 
 3. Saric, CRO10.1 
 4. Dukulis, LAT9.5 
 5. Nogueira, BRA8.8 
 6. Pierre, CAN8.3 
 7. M''Rad, TUN8.0 
 8. Delia, ARG7.8 
 9. Mitchell, USA7.6 
 10. Zhai, CHN7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Vytenis CIZAUSKAS
  (190-G-92)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Cizauskas, LTU5.6 
 2. Grochowski, POL5.6 
 3. Kim, KOR5.4 
 4. Hossam, EGY5.0 
 5. Katic, CRO4.5 
 6. Jackson, USA4.1 
 7. Neto, BRA4.1 
 8. Chen, TAI4.0 
 9. Vecvagars, LAT3.9 
 10. Ahmed, EGY3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Assem AHMED
  (205-C-92)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Ahmed, EGY2.3 
 2. Moon, KOR2.2 
 3. Chen, TAI2.2 
 4. Pangos, CAN2.1 
 5. Lamb, USA2.0 
 6. Cizauskas, LTU1.9 
 7. Zhai, CHN1.8 
 8. Giaveno, ARG1.8 
 9. Abada, TUN1.8 
 10. Creek, AUS1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  LTU
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Valanciunas, LTU3.2 
 2. Nogueira, BRA2.9 
 3. Mitchell, USA1.8 
 4. Leonard, USA1.6 
 5. Karnowski, POL1.6 
 6. Delia, ARG1.4 
 7. Niedzwiedzki, POL1.3 
 8. Lee, KOR1.3 
 9. Jankovic, CAN1.1 
 10. Mockevicius, LTU1.1 


MVP-Jonas Valanciunas paced Lithuania U19 to World Championship Title - by Eurobasket News
FINAL
Serbia - Lithuania 67-85
Lithuania U19 won the 2011 U19 FIBA World Championships! The Baltic side won over Serbia U19 85:67 to became the best U19 team of the world with MVP, Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92). Djordje Drenovac and Bogdan Bogdanovic (198-F-92) scored the first points for the Serbian team, but the Baltic State reply with 6 consecutive points. Nemanja Besovic later tied the game at 9:9, while Dovydas Redikas closed the opening period at 18:13. In the second period Lithuania led from the beginning until the end. Jonas Valanciunas scored for 26:19 and Vytenis Cizauskas posted two for 39:32 that was the last points in the first half. Jonas Valanciunas increased to 41:32 but Serbia did not give up in the game. Bogic Vujosevic (189-PG-92, agency: Beo Basket) tied the game at 44:44 after a massive lead of the Serbia squad. The winners immediately replied with 5-0 run as Arnas Butkevicius scored for 49:44. Vytenis Cizauskas increased to 54:47, while Dovydas Redikas closed the lead and the third period at 62:47. Serbia meanwhile scored the first 4 points in the last quarter, but could not change the scenario. Vytenis Cizauskas scored for 65:51 and Arnas Butkevicius closed another run at 68:51. Jonas Valanciunas made a free throw for 71:56, while Dovydas Redikas increased to plus 16 with 5 minutes in the game. Jonas Valanciunas made a dunk at 77:59 as Lithuania knew about the victory and was ready to celebrate. Luka Mitrovic and Jonas Valanciunas exchanged for 81:61, but Aleksandar Cvetkovic (185-PG-93) and Bogdan Bogdanovic cut it to 65:81. Jonas Valanciunas made a dunk for the last points of the Baltic side and won MVP of the tournament. Jonas Valanciunas recorded 36 points for the winners, while Edgaras Ulanovas scored 12. Arnas Butkevicius and Vytenis Cizauskas followed them with 9 points apiece. Djordje Drenovac replied with 14 points in defeat and Bogdan Bogdanovic netted 13. Aleksandar Cvetkovic and Bogic Vujosevic produced 11 points each in the losing effort.



3rd place
Argentina - Russia 72-77
Russia U19 clinched third place in Riga at the 2011 U19 FIBA World Championships. The Russian team overcame Argentina U19 for the third place 77:72. Both teams desired to finish the campaign with the win after the losses at the semifinals last night. They both nailed 19 points in the opening quarter and continued the battle in the second frame. Carlos Paredes nailed three for 34:27, while Dmitry Kulagin (195-G-92) reduced to 40:35 at the halftime. Franco Giorgetti (202-F-92) gave the Latin American team the biggest lead in the game at 51:40, but they could not keep the lead for good. Dmitry Kulagin closed the period at 53:50 and the last stanza belonged to Russia. Sergey Karasev (200-F-93) tied the game at 53:53 early in the last and Vladislav Trushkin nailed from the arc for 58:57. Sergey Karasev and Dmitry Kulagin made four free throws at the very end for the final success. Dmitry Kulagin top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 8 rebounds, while Aleksandr Gudumak and Sergey Karasev netted 17 each. Vladislav Trushkin ended up with 10 points in the winning effort. Franco Giorgetti answered with 18 points in the losing effort and Pablo Perez scored 13.

5th place
Australia - USA 77-78
USA claimed the fifth position at the U19 World Championship in Latvia. They prevailed against Australia in the final game at the tournament. Tim Hardaway Jr. (195-G-92) Jr. knocked down 21 points to pace the North American team. The Emus started the game strongly. They grabbed a 24:21 lead at the first break. Australia maintained the lead throughout the second term. The Emus posted a 43:39 halftime advantage. The USA bounced back in the third term. They erased the deficit and posted a 60:59 lead with one quarter remaining. The United States stayed in charge in the fourth frame. However Drmic put the Emus in front by one late in regulation. The USA found their hero in Jeremy Lamb (195-G/F-92) as he accounted for two points and sealed the win for the USA. Doug McDermott (200-F-92) posted 13 points, while Meyers Leonard (213-C-92) added 10 points in the win. Hugh Greenwood answered with 26 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for Australia. Jackson Aldridge and Mitchell Creek netted 9 points apiece in the loss.

7th place
Croatia - Poland 70-82
Poland wrapped up their U19 World Championship campaign with victory. They rallied past Croatia to clinch the seventh place in the ladder. Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) knocked down 29 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the winners. It does not look good for Poland in the opening quarter. Croatia erupted for 26 points in the first frame to take an 8-point lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the second stanza. Croatia ensured a 46:38 halftime advantage. But Poland turned things around in the third term. Poland capped the frame with a 12:2 run to secure a 60:57 advantage with one quarter remaining. Przemyslaw Karnowski and Michal Michalak (194-G-93) opened up a double-digit lead for Poland midway through the fourth quarter 71:61. Croatia could not recover in the dying minutes and had to surrender at the end. Michal Michalak notched 23 points, while Grzegorz Grochowski added 12 points and 7 assists for Poland. Dario Saric (207-F/C-94) answered with 21 points and 9 rebounds for Croatia. Boris Barac had 16 points in the loss.





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Women News

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  AUSTRIA - Women  


U20 Belgium beats U20 Austria 64-60 - by Eurobasket News
U20 Belgium - U20 Austria 64-60

Both teams failed in the first two games in Ohrid. Belgium celebrated 64-60 victory today improving to 1-2 score in Group B. Austria dropped to 0-3. Belgium did a great job in the last ten minutes ending them with impressive 25-8. Quarters: 11-15, 14-12, 14-25, 25-8. Noemie Mayombo (171-PG-91, agency: LBM Management) top-scored in victory with 21 points. Emmanuella Mayombo (170-G-92, agency: LBM Management) had 17 pts, while Jaleesa Maes (188-C-92) added 11 points and 10 rebs. In Austria, Milena Lazarevic (178-G/F-91) collected 21 points and 6 rebs. Lisa Zderadicka (166-PG-94) and Julia Koppl (187-F/C-91) delivered 9 and 7 points respectively. On Tuesday, Belgium will meet Czech Republic. Austria will take on Estonia and will try to grab the first win at this event.

Belgium: Noemie Mayombo 21, Emmanuella Mayombo 17, Jaleesa Maes 11+10 boards
Austria: Milena Lazarevic 21+6 boards, Lisa Zderadicka 9, Julia Koppl 7

*****************************************************
  BELARUS - Women  


U20 EuroBasket: Italy advances to Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
U20 Belarus - U20 Italy 51-82

Italy destroyed Belarus 82-51 in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Zrenjanin. Thanks to this victory Italy finished this stage as No.2 of Group C with 2-1 record and advanced to Qualifying Round. They will be transferred to Group F. On the other side, Belarus ended as the last ranked team in this pool with 0-3 and they will continue in Classification Round from 13th to 16th place. Laura Spreafico (182-F/G-91) came up with 16 points and 6 assists for the winners. Federica Tognalini (183-F-91) had 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Irene Cigliani (177-G-92) added 12 pts. In defeat, Maryia Filonchyk (189-C/F-92) shined with 18 points and 9 rebounds. Maryia Papova (186-F-94) and Ksenija Voishal (179-F-94) scored 9 and 8 points respectively. Quarters: 15-11, 9-21, 13-29, 14-21. Championship continues on Monday. Participants of Group F will also be France, Holland, Spain, United Kingdom and Latvia.

Belarus: Maryia Filonchyk 18+9 boards, Maryia Papova 9, Ksenija Voishal 8
Italy: Laura Spreafico 16+6 as, Federica Tognalini 13+12 boards, Irene Cigliani 12

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


U20 Belgium beats U20 Austria 64-60 - by Eurobasket News
U20 Belgium - U20 Austria 64-60

Both teams failed in the first two games in Ohrid. Belgium celebrated 64-60 victory today improving to 1-2 score in Group B. Austria dropped to 0-3. Belgium did a great job in the last ten minutes ending them with impressive 25-8. Quarters: 11-15, 14-12, 14-25, 25-8. Noemie Mayombo (171-PG-91, agency: LBM Management) top-scored in victory with 21 points. Emmanuella Mayombo (170-G-92, agency: LBM Management) had 17 pts, while Jaleesa Maes (188-C-92) added 11 points and 10 rebs. In Austria, Milena Lazarevic (178-G/F-91) collected 21 points and 6 rebs. Lisa Zderadicka (166-PG-94) and Julia Koppl (187-F/C-91) delivered 9 and 7 points respectively. On Tuesday, Belgium will meet Czech Republic. Austria will take on Estonia and will try to grab the first win at this event.

Belgium: Noemie Mayombo 21, Emmanuella Mayombo 17, Jaleesa Maes 11+10 boards
Austria: Milena Lazarevic 21+6 boards, Lisa Zderadicka 9, Julia Koppl 7

*****************************************************
  BULGARIA - Women  


U20 Bulgaria takes first win in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 FYROM - U20 Bulgaria 54-66

First victory for Bulgaria in Ohrid. They outplayed FYROM 66-54 for 1-2 record in Preliminary Group A. The host of U20 EuroBasket Division B stays winless after two appearances. Bulgaria opened the game with 8-20 and later continued with 8-15 in the second period. Bulgaria won Q3 as well 12-15 and last ten minutes were just the formality. FYROM made 26-16 in the last quarter to cut the margin to 12 pts at the end. Violina Kocheva (176-G/F-91) erupted with 23 points for the winners. Tsvetromira Sharenkapova (182-F-91) had 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Mariya Svetoslavova (178-F-93) added 9 points. Vanesa Vasilevska (180-F-92) was the only player with double-digits in scoring for FYROM (10 points). Sanja Radenkovik (178-G/F-91) stopped to 9 pts. Bulgaria will have two days off now. FYROM will meet Sweden on Tuesday.

FYROM: Vanesa Vasilevska 10, Sanja Radenkovik 9
Bulgaria: Violina Kocheva 23, Tsvetromira Sharenkapova 13+7 boards, Mariya Svetoslavova 9

*****************************************************
  CHILE - Women  


Ziomara Morrison will remain with Burgos - by Eurobasket News
Ziomara Morrison (193-C-89) will remain in Jopisa Ciudad de Burgos. Chilean Center joined the team last season after coming from Club D.Baloncesto Aros Leon. The National team player was the top player fro Chile at the South American Championships in Santiago (Chile) and became the third top-scorer with 18.5ppg), Reb-1 (11.3rpg), 2.0apg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 75.8%. Before coming to Spain Ziomara played for Banco di Sicilia Ribera (Italy-A1).

The team announced bringing Laura Herrera and keeping Ziomara Morrison, Lorena Infantes, Celia Menendez and Lucia Pablos for 2011/2012 season.



*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


U20 Czech Republic stays undefeated in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 Israel - U20 Czech Republic 58-61

It was a game between two undefeated teams in Ohrid. Czech Republic jumped to 3-0 in Group B thanks to 61-58 victory today. Of course, Israel dropped to 2-1 after this loss. Alena Hanusova (190-F/C-91) exploded with 26 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Petra Zaplatova (175-G/F-91) scored 14 points and Lenka Bartakova (176-G-91) helped with 6 pts. In defeat, Bar Galinski (185-F-92) was good once again collecting 22 points and 9 rebounds. Eloisa Katz (182-F/C-91) (6 rebs) and Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) netted 10 points each. Czech Republic made 17-21 in the first quarter and jumped to 31-39 until the halftime. Third period belonged to Israel 18-14 and they won Q4 also with 9-8. However, that was not enough for a turn and Israel faced with their first loss in Ohrid. On Tuesday, Czech Republic will play against Belgium, while Israel will meet Greece.

Israel: Bar Galinski 22+9 boards, Eloisa Katz 10+6 boards, Hadar Gutin 10
Czech Republic: Alena Hanusova 26+11 boards, Petra Zaplatova 14, Lenka Bartakova 6

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  ESTONIA - Women  


U20 Greece jumps to 3-0 in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 Estonia - U20 Greece 43-56

Third straight win for Greece in Ohrid. This time Greece outplayed Estonia 56-43 for perfect 3-0 record in Group B. Estonia faced with third consecutive loss at this event. Second quarter was the crucial period in this game as Greece won it 5-15. They never looked back after that. Quarters: 14-15, 5-15, 10-12, 14-14. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) came up with 21 points and 8 rebounds in victory. Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) scored 11 points and Aspasia Kalampakou (178-G-93) had two less than her. Rosemary Rits (180-F-92) was the only player with double-digits in Estonia with 10 points. Annika Koster (185-F/C-92) had 8 points and 9 boards, while Mailis Pokk (185-F/C-92) added 6 points and 5 rebs. Greece will meet Israel on Tuesday. Estonia will play against Austria.

Estonia: Rosemary Rits 10, Annika Koster 8+9 boards, Mailis Pokk 6+5 boards
Greece: Artemis Spanou 21+8 boards, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 11, Aspasia Kalampakou 9

U20 Israel grabs 60-59 thriller win against U20 Estonia in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 Israel - U20 Estonia 60-59

Very exciting game was played between Israel and Estonia in Ohrid. Israeli managed to grab 60-59 victory for perfect 2-0 record in Group B. On the other side, Estonia stays winless after two days. Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) came up with 18 points for Israel, and Bar Galinski (185-F-92) helped with double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds. Eloisa Katz (182-F/C-91) followed them with 12 pts. In Estonia, Janett Perv (181-F/G-91) shined with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Maaja Bratka (190-F/C-92) scored 11 points (6 rebs) and Annika Koster (185-F/C-92) had one less (7 rebs). Quarters: 20-15, 19-14, 14-15, 7-15. In Day Three of the championship, Israel will meet Czech Republic. Estonia will take on Greece.

Israel: Hadar Gutin 18, Bar Galinski 13+11 boards, Eloisa Katz 12
Estonia: Janett Perv 18+5 boards, Maaja Bratka 11+6 boards, Annika Koster 10+7 boards

*****************************************************
  EUROCUP - Women  


Standings
Eurocup Standings
Group A
 1. Botas 0-0 
 2. Dynamo M. 0-0 
 3. Gorizont 0-0 
 4. Quinta 0-0 
Group B
 1. Besiktas 0-0 
 2. Dynamo-GUVD 0-0 
 3. Telge 0-0 
 4. Young Cats 0-0 
Group C
 1. AD Vagos 0-0 
 2. Dexia Namur 0-0 
 3. Nantes 0-0 
 4. TED Ankara 0-0 
Group D
 1. Fl.Foxes 0-0 
 2. Gran Canaria 0-0 
 3. Lemminkainen 0-0 
 4. Union Hainaut 0-0 
Group E
 1. Arras 0-0 
 2. Chevakata 0-0 
 3. Sint Kateline 0-0 
 4. SISU 0-0 
Group F
 1. Dynamo K. 0-0 
 2. Maccabi Ashdod 0-0 
 3. Olimpia 0-0 
 4. TED Kayseri 0-0 
Group G
 1. Helios 0-0 
 2. Landes 0-0 
 3. MBK Ruzomb. 0-0 
 4. Partizan 0-0 
Group H
 1. Elitzur Ramla 0-0 
 2. Mondeville 0-0 
 3. Spartak N. 0-0 


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  EUROLEAGUE - Women  


Asjha Jones heads to Rivas Ecopolis - by Eurobasket News
Asjha Jones (188-F-80, college: Connecticut) heads to Rivas Ecopolis for the next season. Recently the the American Forward plays for Connecticut Sun. With her team she stays since the very beginning as Jones also graduated from Connecticut (NCAA, starting five). In 2001-2002 she helped lead her team to an undefeated 39-0 record her senior season, only the third time in the history of women's basketball; Ranks 11th on UConn's all time scoring list (1,502), 5th in blocks (151), and 9th in rebounds (794); Holds UConn's all-time record for games played with 144, never missing a contest during her four year career.
This season Asjha Jones recorded 20 points at the Regular Season Round 3. Sylvia Fowles however had 23 points and 13 rebounds to lead the Chicago Sky to a 78-75 victory over the Connecticut Sun. Renee Montgomery scored 22 points and Asjha Jones added 20 for the Sun.
In 2009-2010 played for UMMC Ekaterinburg (Russia-A Superleague), but was released in Dec.'09. In Euroleague after 6 games she avearged 7.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 45.0%, FT: 66.7%. In Russian League after 6 games her stats read 9.8ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 64.9%, FT: 72.7%.


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20 - Women  


Division B: Day Two in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
GROUP A

U20 Bulgaria - U20 Portugal 49-74
Portugal registered another victory at the U20 EuroBasket Division B in Ohrid. After win against the host FYROM, Portugal outplayed Bulgaria 74-49 for 2-0 record in Group A. Bulgaria dropped to 0-2 on the other side. Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) was the leading scorer in victory with 17 points. Maria Correia (174-G/F-91) and Telma Fernandes (180-C/F-91) followed her with 13 and 11 points respectively. In Bulgaria, Tsvetromira Sharenkapova (182-F-91) was better than the others with 15 pts. Violina Kocheva (176-G/F-91) had 14 and Viktoria Stoycheva (172-G-92) stopped to 7 pts. Portugal took 24-10 lead in the first ten minutes and never looked back after that. Quarters: 10-24, 15-20, 14-15, 10-15. In Day Three of the championship, Portugal will play against Sweden. Bulgaria will meet FYROM.

Bulgaria: Tsvetromira Sharenkapova 15, Violina Kocheva 14, Viktoria Stoycheva 7
Portugal: Michelle Brandao 17, Maria Correia 13, Telma Fernandes 11


U20 Sweden - U20 Hungary 64-51
Sweden celebrated in their first appearance in Ohird. They handed 64-51 loss to Hungary for 1-0 record in Group A. On the other side, Hungary faced with the first loss and they have 1-1 score now. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) exploded with double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds for Sweden. Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) also was great as she added 14 points and 11 rebs, while Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) helped with 13 pts and 9 boards. Reka Balint (182-F-91) answered with 13 points and 5 boards on the other side. Bettina Szabo (168-G-92) stopped to 10 pts. Last period was the crucial one in this game as Sweden won it 23-12. Quarters: 13-10, 14-13, 14-16, 23-12. In Day Three of the championship, Sweden will meet Portugal. Hungary will have a day off.

Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 20+11 boards, Cleopatra Forsman-Goga 14+11 boards, Binta Drammeh 13+9 boards
Hungary: Reka Balint 13+5 boards, Bettina Szabo 10


GROUP B

U20 Israel - U20 Estonia 60-59
Very exciting game was played between Israel and Estonia in Ohrid. Israeli managed to grab 60-59 victory for perfect 2-0 record in Group B. On the other side, Estonia stays winless after two days. Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) came up with 18 points for Israel, and Bar Galinski (185-F-92) helped with double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds. Eloisa Katz (182-F/C-91) followed them with 12 pts. In Estonia, Janett Perv (181-F/G-91) shined with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Maaja Bratka (190-F/C-92) scored 11 points (6 rebs) and Annika Koster (185-F/C-92) had one less (7 rebs). Quarters: 20-15, 19-14, 14-15, 7-15. In Day Three of the championship, Israel will meet Czech Republic. Estonia will take on Greece.

Israel: Hadar Gutin 18, Bar Galinski 13+11 boards, Eloisa Katz 12
Estonia: Janett Perv 18+5 boards, Maaja Bratka 11+6 boards, Annika Koster 10+7 boards


U20 Greece - U20 Belgium 53-47
Greece celebrated another victory in Ohrid. After 64-52 win against Austria, Greece outplayed Belgium 53-47 today for 2-0 record in Group B. Belgium stays winless after two games. Third quarter was the crucial one in this meeting as Greece blasted Belgium 20-5. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) shined for the winners with 17 points and 7 rebounds. Anastasia Slouka (182-G-93) scored 16, while Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) added 7 points and 10 boards. In the loosing squad, Emmanuella Mayombo (170-G-92, agency: LBM Management) delivered 15 pts and Ann Schyvens (160-G-93) had 10. Quarters: 13-12, 3-10, 20-5, 17-20. In Day Three of the championship, Greece will meet Estonia. Belgium will play against Austria and will try to grab the first win at this event.

Greece: Artemis Spanou 17+7 boards, Anastasia Slouka 16, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 7+10 boards
Belgium: Emmanuella Mayombo 15, Ann Schyvens 10


U20 Czech Republic - U20 Austria 84-49
Czech Republic registered second straight win in Ohrid. They trashed Austria today 84-49 for perfect 2-0 record in Group B. Austria failed also in Day One so they currently have 0-2. Czech Republic opened this meeting with 18-13 and continued with impressive 27-5 until the halftime. Nothing has changed after the breather as Czech Republic won Q3 with 23-8. Last ten minutes were just the formality as the game winner was already known. Alena Hanusova (190-F/C-91) came up with 21 points and 7 rebounds for Czech Republic. Karolina Elhotova (182-F-92) had 13 points and 6 boards, while Barbora Kasparkova (182-F/C-92) added 10 pts. Lisa Zderadicka (166-PG-94) scored 10 points in Austria, while Julia Koppl (187-F/C-91) and Kolin had 8 and 7 pts respectively. Tomorrow, Czech Republic will meet Israel. Austria will take on also winless Belgium.

Czech Republic: Alena Hanusova 21+7 boards, Karolina Elhotova 13+6 boards, Barbora Kasparkova 10
Austria: Lisa Zderadicka 10, Julia Koppl 8, Kolin 7



Standings Div.B (Women) - by Eurobasket News
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Sweden2-0
2. Portugal2-1
3. Hungary1-1
4. Bulgaria1-2
5. FYR Macedo.0-2
Group B
1. Czech Rep.3-0
2. Greece3-0
3. Israel2-1
4. Austria0-2
5. Belgium0-2
6. Estonia0-3


Stats Leaders (Women)
Points Per Game
 Ozge YAVAS
  (174-G-91)
  Avg: 20
 1. Yavas, TUR20.0 
 2. Schaake, GER19.0 
 3. Malashenko, UKR16.0 
 4. Krnjic, SRB16.0 
 5. Iagupova, UKR14.0 
 6. Maznichenko, UKR13.0 
 7. Misiuk, POL13.0 
 8. Craciun, ROM13.0 
 9. Takmaz, TUR12.0 
 10. Greinacher, GER11.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tijana AJDUKOVIC
  (197-C-91)
  Avg: 12
 1. Ajdukovic, SRB12.0 
 2. Ural, TUR12.0 
 3. Jovanovic, SRB9.0 
 4. Krnjic, SRB9.0 
 5. Malashenko, UKR8.5 
 6. Naumenko, UKR8.5 
 7. Mistygacz, POL8.5 
 8. Iagupova, UKR7.0 
 9. Misiuk, POL7.0 
 10. Craciun, ROM6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Gamze TAKMAZ
  (184-F-91)
  Avg: 4
 1. Takmaz, TUR4.0 
 2. Iagupova, UKR4.0 
 3. Brunckhorst, GER3.0 
 4. Karic, GER3.0 
 5. Yavas, TUR3.0 
 6. Sniezek, POL3.0 
 7. Maznichenko, UKR2.5 
 8. Prvulovic, SRB2.0 
 9. Greinacher, GER2.0 
 10. Cora, TUR2.0 
Steals Per Game
 Gamze TAKMAZ
  (184-F-91)
  Avg: 4
 1. Takmaz, TUR4.0 
 2. Markovic, SRB3.0 
 3. Ajdukovic, SRB3.0 
 4. Nikolic, SRB3.0 
 5. Ferenczi, ROM3.0 
 6. Matsko, UKR2.5 
 7. Sniezek, POL2.5 
 8. Ursu, ROM2.0 
 9. Maznichenko, UKR2.0 
 10. Schaake, GER2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Esra URAL
  (198-C-91)
  Avg: 2
 1. Ural, TUR2.0 
 2. Malashenko, UKR1.5 
 3. Krnjic, SRB1.0 
 4. Ferenczi, ROM1.0 
 5. Iagupova, UKR1.0 
 6. Craciun, ROM1.0 
 7. Ajdukovic, SRB1.0 
 8. Maznichenko, UKR0.5 
 9. Szczepanik, POL0.5 
 10. Chek, UKR0.5 


W-Standings - Group A
Standings
Group A
1. Poland2-1
2. Serbia2-1
3. Ukraine2-1
4. Germany0-3
Group B
1. Russia3-0
2. Lithuania2-1
3. Turkey1-2
4. Romania0-3
Group C
1. France3-0
2. Italy2-1
3. Holland1-2
4. Belarus0-3
Group D
1. Spain3-0
2. Latvia1-2
3. Slovakia1-2
4. U.Kingdom1-2


Division A: Preliminary Round is over in Novi Sad and Zrenjanin - by Eurobasket News
GROUP A

U20 Poland - U20 Ukraine 57-62
Ukraine was better than Poland 62-57 in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Novi Sad. There is a three-way tie on top of Group A now with Ukraine, Poland and Serbia all having 2-1 record. In this circle Serbia is No.1, Poland is No.2 and third place belongs to Ukraine despite this win. All of them advanced to the Qualifying Round (Group E). Alina Iagupova (181-G-92, agency: LBM Management) erupted with 16 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91, agency: LBM Management) had 16 points and 9 boards, while Olesia Malashenko (189-F-91, agency: LBM Management) helped with double-double of 13 points and 10 rebs. In Poland, Dorota Mistygacz (183-F/C-92) shined with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Malgorzata Misiuk (184-F-91) (8 rebs) and Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) scored 10 and 9 points respectively. Quarters: 11-15, 12-21, 9-11, 25-15. Competition continues on Monday. Participants of Group E are also Russia, Lithuania and Turkey.

Poland: Dorota Mistygacz 12+11 boards, Malgorzata Misiuk 10+8 boards, Magdalena Zietara 9
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 16+10 boards+7 as, Olga Maznichenko 16+9 boards, Olesia Malashenko 13+10 boards


U20 Serbia - U20 Germany 82-68
Serbia is the winner of Preliminary Group A in Novi Sad. They outplayed Germany 82-68 for 2-1 record in this pool. The host of U20 EuroBasket advanced to the Qualifying Round and will be placed in Group E. On the other side, Germany (0-3) failed to reach the next stage and they will continue in Classification Round. Marina Markovic (181-G/F-91) scored 17 points and grabbed 5 rebounds for the hosts. Snezana Colic (176-G-92) had 16 pts and 6 assists, while Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) added 12 points and 8 boards. Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92) responded with 23 points and 12 rebounds in defeat. Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) scored 13 pts (5 rebs) and Svenja Brunckhorst (178-G-91) stopped to 10 pts (5 as). Quarters: 14-9, 22-14, 18-27, 28-18. Championship continues on Monday, when Serbia will meet Turkey.

Serbia: Marina Markovic 17+5 boards, Snezana Colic 16+6 as, Sara Krnjic 12+8 boards
Germany: Sonja Greinacher 23+12 boards, Finja Schaake 13+5 boards, Svenja Brunckhorst 10+5 as


GROUP B

U20 Turkey - U20 Russia 63-64
Russia is the winner of Preliminary Group B in Novi Sad. They grabbed 64-63 thriller win against Turkey today to end this stage with perfect 3-0. Turkey also advanced to the next phase, but as No.3 with 1-2 record. Both teams will be transferred to Qualifying Group E. Alexandra Tarasova (194-C-91) came up with double-double of 13 points and 16 rebounds in victory. Anastasiya Shilova (185-F/G-91) scored 10, while Veronika Dorosheva (193-F-91) and Evgeniya Finogentova (174-G-91) added 9 points and 5 rebounds each. In Turkey, Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) collected 22 points and 6 boards. Gamze Takmaz (184-F-91) and Pinar Demirok (180-F-91) had 12 and 11 pts respectively. Game winner was decided in the finish. Turkey had 63-62 lead with 59 seconds to go. But Cora then missed with 16 seconds left, and Russia raced to the other end. Alexandra Tarasova also missed, but she drew a foul battling for her own rebound and coolly sank both free throws to put Russia back on top with six seconds left. Turkey called a time-out but the play they drew up did not work as Aysegul Gunay's three-pointer was off-target at the buzzer. Quarters: 14-20, 24-14, 10-18, 15-12. Championship continues on Monday.

Turkey: Ayse Cora 22+6 boards, Gamze Takmaz 12, Pinar Demirok 11
Russia: Alexandra Tarasova 13+16 boards, Anastasiya Shilova 10, Veronika Dorosheva 9+5 boards, Evgeniya Finogentova 9+5 boards


U20 Lithuania - U20 Romania 88-61
Lithuania blasted Romania 88-61 in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Novi Sad. Thanks to this win, Lithuania ended as No.2 in Group B and booked a spot for the next stage. Romania (0-3) is the last ranked team in this pool and they will continue in Classification Round. Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) came up with 17 points for the winners. Gintare Mazionyte (186-F/C-91) had 15, while Monika Grigalauskyte (187-F-92) added 13 points and 18 boards. In the loosing squad, Sonia Ursu (175-G/F-93) delivered 16 points. Their second scorer was Gabriela Cursaru (169-PG-92) with 13 pts. Lithuania made double-digit lead already in the first quarter. They started with 24-14 and continued with 31-22 for the next ten minutes. Romania was better in Q3 10-14, but Santa Okockyte and her teammates closed this game with 23-11 for the final 25-point win. Lithuania will be transferred to Qualifying Group E.

Lithuania: Santa Okockyte 17, Gintare Mazionyte 15, Monika Grigalauskyte 13+18 boards
Romania: Sonia Ursu 16, Gabriela Cursaru 13


GROUP C

U20 Belarus - U20 Italy 51-82
Italy destroyed Belarus 82-51 in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Zrenjanin. Thanks to this victory Italy finished this stage as No.2 of Group C with 2-1 record and advanced to Qualifying Round. They will be transferred to Group F. On the other side, Belarus ended as the last ranked team in this pool with 0-3 and they will continue in Classification Round from 13th to 16th place. Laura Spreafico (182-F/G-91) came up with 16 points and 6 assists for the winners. Federica Tognalini (183-F-91) had 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Irene Cigliani (177-G-92) added 12 pts. In defeat, Maryia Filonchyk (189-C/F-92) shined with 18 points and 9 rebounds. Maryia Papova (186-F-94) and Ksenija Voishal (179-F-94) scored 9 and 8 points respectively. Quarters: 15-11, 9-21, 13-29, 14-21. Championship continues on Monday. Participants of Group F will also be France, Holland, Spain, United Kingdom and Latvia.

Belarus: Maryia Filonchyk 18+9 boards, Maryia Papova 9, Ksenija Voishal 8
Italy: Laura Spreafico 16+6 as, Federica Tognalini 13+12 boards, Irene Cigliani 12


U20 France - U20 Holland 66-58
France ended Preliminary Round in Zrenjanin with perfect 3-0 record. They outplayed Holland in Day Three 66-58 winning the first place in Group D. Holland (1-2) also advanced to the next stage thanks to victory against Belarus earlier in the championship. France and Holland will be transferred to Qualifying Round - Group F, together with Italy, Spain, United Kingdom and Latvia. Ondaye-Akoa Elenga (186-F-91) shined for the winners with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Hhadydia Minte (187-F-91) had 14 points and 7 rebs, while Isabelle Strunc (179-G-91) added 11 pts. In defeat, Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92) was better than the others with 19 points and 5 boards. Chatilla Van Grinsven (187-F-89) had double-double of 12 points and 13 rebs. Quarters: 14-16, 16-12, 17-18, 19-12. Championship continues on Monday. France will meet Latvia, while Holland will take on Spain.

France: Ondaye-Akoa Elenga 20+9 boards, Hhadydia Minte 14+7 boards, Isabelle Strunc 11
Holland: Marlou De Kleijn 19+5 boards, Chatilla Van Grinsven 12+13 boards


GROUP D

U20 Slovakia - U20 Latvia 43-49
Latvia advanced to the second stage of U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad and Zrenjanin. They handed 49-43 loss to Slovakia for the first win at this event. It was enough for third place in Group D and a ticket for the Qualifying Round. Slovakia (1-2) ended as the last ranked team in this pool and they will continue in Classification Round from 13th to 16th place. Latvia did not have anyone with double-digits in scoring today, but still they played like a team and managed to win. Sabine Niedola (184-F-91) scored 9 points, while Anete Kirsteine (178-F/G-92) added 8 points and 7 boards. Kristine Vitola (196-C/F-91) helped with 7 pts and 8 boards. In defeat, Angelika Slamova (172-G-94) (8 turnovers) and Sabina Oroszova (187-F-93) had 10 points each. It is important to mention that Latvia scored just one point in the first ten minutes of the game. Quarters: 1-15, 12-8, 15-12, 15-14. Latvia will be transferred to Qualifying Group F.

Slovakia: Angelika Slamova 10+8 to, Sabina Oroszova 10
Latvia: Sabine Niedola 9, Anete Kirsteine 8+7 boards, Kristine Vitola 7+8 boards


U20 Spain - U20 United Kingdom 81-31
Spain destroyed United Kingdom 81-31 wining the first place in Preliminary Group D. They ended this stage with perfect 3-0. Despite this defeat, UK also advanced to the next stage, but as No.2 with 1-2 record. Vega Gimeno Martinez (183-F-91, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Robert Morris) stepped up for Spain with 18 points and Queralt Casas (180-G-92) had two less than her. Amaya Gastaminza (189-F-91, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Oregon St.) helped with 11 pts in this meeting. On the other side, Deanne Hayward (170-G-91) was the only one with double-digits with 10 pts. Renee E. Busch (174-G-92) stopped to 7 points. Spain was way better team during the entire game. Quarters: 14-7, 26-7, 27-11, 14-6. Both teams will be transferred to Group F of the Qualifying Round. There will also be Latvia and three best teams from Preliminary Group C.

Spain: Vega Gimeno Martinez 18, Queralt Casas 16, Amaya Gastaminza 11
United Kingdom: Deanne Hayward 10, Renee E. Busch 7



Division B: Day Three in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
GROUP A

U20 Portugal - U20 Sweden 50-67
Sweden handed the first loss to Portugal in Ohrid. They celebrated 67-50 win for 2-0 record in Group A. On the other side, Portugal dropped to 2-1. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) shined for the winners with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) had 14 points and 7 rebs, while Salome Kabengano (177-G-92) added 12 points and 9 boards. In the loosing squad, Daniela Domingues (176-F/G-92) collected 14 points and 6 rebs. Ines Faustino (167-G-92) and Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) followed her with 8 points each. Sweden did a great job in the first half and later had no troubles to keep their lead for rest of the game. Quarters: 12-19, 11-23, 14-15, 13-10. On Tuesday, Sweden will meet host FYROM. Portugal will take on Hungary.

Portugal: Daniela Domingues 14+6 boards, Ines Faustino 8, Michelle Brandao 8
Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 17+8 boards, Cleopatra Forsman-Goga 14+7 boards, Salome Kabengano 12+9 boards


U20 FYROM - U20 Bulgaria 54-66
First victory for Bulgaria in Ohrid. They outplayed FYROM 66-54 for 1-2 record in Preliminary Group A. The host of U20 EuroBasket Division B stays winless after two appearances. Bulgaria opened the game with 8-20 and later continued with 8-15 in the second period. Bulgaria won Q3 as well 12-15 and last ten minutes were just the formality. FYROM made 26-16 in the last quarter to cut the margin to 12 pts at the end. Violina Kocheva (176-G/F-91) erupted with 23 points for the winners. Tsvetromira Sharenkapova (182-F-91) had 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Mariya Svetoslavova (178-F-93) added 9 points. Vanesa Vasilevska (180-F-92) was the only player with double-digits in scoring for FYROM (10 points). Sanja Radenkovik (178-G/F-91) stopped to 9 pts. Bulgaria will have two days off now. FYROM will meet Sweden on Tuesday.

FYROM: Vanesa Vasilevska 10, Sanja Radenkovik 9
Bulgaria: Violina Kocheva 23, Tsvetromira Sharenkapova 13+7 boards, Mariya Svetoslavova 9



GROUP B

U20 Estonia - U20 Greece 43-56
Third straight win for Greece in Ohrid. This time Greece outplayed Estonia 56-43 for perfect 3-0 record in Group B. Estonia faced with third consecutive loss at this event. Second quarter was the crucial period in this game as Greece won it 5-15. They never looked back after that. Quarters: 14-15, 5-15, 10-12, 14-14. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) came up with 21 points and 8 rebounds in victory. Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) scored 11 points and Aspasia Kalampakou (178-G-93) had two less than her. Rosemary Rits (180-F-92) was the only player with double-digits in Estonia with 10 points. Annika Koster (185-F/C-92) had 8 points and 9 boards, while Mailis Pokk (185-F/C-92) added 6 points and 5 rebs. Greece will meet Israel on Tuesday. Estonia will play against Austria.

Estonia: Rosemary Rits 10, Annika Koster 8+9 boards, Mailis Pokk 6+5 boards
Greece: Artemis Spanou 21+8 boards, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 11, Aspasia Kalampakou 9


U20 Israel - U20 Czech Republic 58-61
It was a game between two undefeated teams in Ohrid. Czech Republic jumped to 3-0 in Group B thanks to 61-58 victory today. Of course, Israel dropped to 2-1 after this loss. Alena Hanusova (190-F/C-91) exploded with 26 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Petra Zaplatova (175-G/F-91) scored 14 points and Lenka Bartakova (176-G-91) helped with 6 pts. In defeat, Bar Galinski (185-F-92) was good once again collecting 22 points and 9 rebounds. Eloisa Katz (182-F/C-91) (6 rebs) and Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) netted 10 points each. Czech Republic made 17-21 in the first quarter and jumped to 31-39 until the halftime. Third period belonged to Israel 18-14 and they won Q4 also with 9-8. However, that was not enough for a turn and Israel faced with their first loss in Ohrid. On Tuesday, Czech Republic will play against Belgium, while Israel will meet Greece.

Israel: Bar Galinski 22+9 boards, Eloisa Katz 10+6 boards, Hadar Gutin 10
Czech Republic: Alena Hanusova 26+11 boards, Petra Zaplatova 14, Lenka Bartakova 6


U20 Belgium - U20 Austria 64-60
Both teams failed in the first two games in Ohrid. Belgium celebrated 64-60 victory today improving to 1-2 score in Group B. Austria dropped to 0-3. Belgium did a great job in the last ten minutes ending them with impressive 25-8. Quarters: 11-15, 14-12, 14-25, 25-8. Noemie Mayombo (171-PG-91, agency: LBM Management) top-scored in victory with 21 points. Emmanuella Mayombo (170-G-92, agency: LBM Management) had 17 pts, while Jaleesa Maes (188-C-92) added 11 points and 10 rebs. In Austria, Milena Lazarevic (178-G/F-91) collected 21 points and 6 rebs. Lisa Zderadicka (166-PG-94) and Julia Koppl (187-F/C-91) delivered 9 and 7 points respectively. On Tuesday, Belgium will meet Czech Republic. Austria will take on Estonia and will try to grab the first win at this event.

Belgium: Noemie Mayombo 21, Emmanuella Mayombo 17, Jaleesa Maes 11+10 boards
Austria: Milena Lazarevic 21+6 boards, Lisa Zderadicka 9, Julia Koppl 7



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  FRANCE - Women  


U20 France wins Group D in Zrenjanin with perfect 3-0 - by Eurobasket News
U20 France - U20 Holland 66-58

France ended Preliminary Round in Zrenjanin with perfect 3-0 record. They outplayed Holland in Day Three 66-58 winning the first place in Group D. Holland (1-2) also advanced to the next stage thanks to victory against Belarus earlier in the championship. France and Holland will be transferred to Qualifying Round - Group F, together with Italy, Spain, United Kingdom and Latvia. Ondaye-Akoa Elenga (186-F-91) shined for the winners with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Hhadydia Minte (187-F-91) had 14 points and 7 rebs, while Isabelle Strunc (179-G-91) added 11 pts. In defeat, Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92) was better than the others with 19 points and 5 boards. Chatilla Van Grinsven (187-F-89) had double-double of 12 points and 13 rebs. Quarters: 14-16, 16-12, 17-18, 19-12. Championship continues on Monday. France will meet Latvia, while Holland will take on Spain.

France: Ondaye-Akoa Elenga 20+9 boards, Hhadydia Minte 14+7 boards, Isabelle Strunc 11
Holland: Marlou De Kleijn 19+5 boards, Chatilla Van Grinsven 12+13 boards

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  FYR MACEDONIA - Women  


U20 Bulgaria takes first win in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 FYROM - U20 Bulgaria 54-66

First victory for Bulgaria in Ohrid. They outplayed FYROM 66-54 for 1-2 record in Preliminary Group A. The host of U20 EuroBasket Division B stays winless after two appearances. Bulgaria opened the game with 8-20 and later continued with 8-15 in the second period. Bulgaria won Q3 as well 12-15 and last ten minutes were just the formality. FYROM made 26-16 in the last quarter to cut the margin to 12 pts at the end. Violina Kocheva (176-G/F-91) erupted with 23 points for the winners. Tsvetromira Sharenkapova (182-F-91) had 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Mariya Svetoslavova (178-F-93) added 9 points. Vanesa Vasilevska (180-F-92) was the only player with double-digits in scoring for FYROM (10 points). Sanja Radenkovik (178-G/F-91) stopped to 9 pts. Bulgaria will have two days off now. FYROM will meet Sweden on Tuesday.

FYROM: Vanesa Vasilevska 10, Sanja Radenkovik 9
Bulgaria: Violina Kocheva 23, Tsvetromira Sharenkapova 13+7 boards, Mariya Svetoslavova 9

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  GERMANY - Women  


U20 Serbia ends as No.1 of Group A in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News
U20 Serbia - U20 Germany 82-68

Serbia is the winner of Preliminary Group A in Novi Sad. They outplayed Germany 82-68 for 2-1 record in this pool. The host of U20 EuroBasket advanced to the Qualifying Round and will be placed in Group E. On the other side, Germany (0-3) failed to reach the next stage and they will continue in Classification Round. Marina Markovic (181-G/F-91) scored 17 points and grabbed 5 rebounds for the hosts. Snezana Colic (176-G-92) had 16 pts and 6 assists, while Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) added 12 points and 8 boards. Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92) responded with 23 points and 12 rebounds in defeat. Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) scored 13 pts (5 rebs) and Svenja Brunckhorst (178-G-91) stopped to 10 pts (5 as). Quarters: 14-9, 22-14, 18-27, 28-18. Championship continues on Monday, when Serbia will meet Turkey.

Serbia: Marina Markovic 17+5 boards, Snezana Colic 16+6 as, Sara Krnjic 12+8 boards
Germany: Sonja Greinacher 23+12 boards, Finja Schaake 13+5 boards, Svenja Brunckhorst 10+5 as

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  GREECE - Women  


U20 Greece jumps to 3-0 in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 Estonia - U20 Greece 43-56

Third straight win for Greece in Ohrid. This time Greece outplayed Estonia 56-43 for perfect 3-0 record in Group B. Estonia faced with third consecutive loss at this event. Second quarter was the crucial period in this game as Greece won it 5-15. They never looked back after that. Quarters: 14-15, 5-15, 10-12, 14-14. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) came up with 21 points and 8 rebounds in victory. Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) scored 11 points and Aspasia Kalampakou (178-G-93) had two less than her. Rosemary Rits (180-F-92) was the only player with double-digits in Estonia with 10 points. Annika Koster (185-F/C-92) had 8 points and 9 boards, while Mailis Pokk (185-F/C-92) added 6 points and 5 rebs. Greece will meet Israel on Tuesday. Estonia will play against Austria.

Estonia: Rosemary Rits 10, Annika Koster 8+9 boards, Mailis Pokk 6+5 boards
Greece: Artemis Spanou 21+8 boards, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 11, Aspasia Kalampakou 9

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  HOLLAND - Women  


U20 France wins Group D in Zrenjanin with perfect 3-0 - by Eurobasket News
U20 France - U20 Holland 66-58

France ended Preliminary Round in Zrenjanin with perfect 3-0 record. They outplayed Holland in Day Three 66-58 winning the first place in Group D. Holland (1-2) also advanced to the next stage thanks to victory against Belarus earlier in the championship. France and Holland will be transferred to Qualifying Round - Group F, together with Italy, Spain, United Kingdom and Latvia. Ondaye-Akoa Elenga (186-F-91) shined for the winners with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Hhadydia Minte (187-F-91) had 14 points and 7 rebs, while Isabelle Strunc (179-G-91) added 11 pts. In defeat, Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92) was better than the others with 19 points and 5 boards. Chatilla Van Grinsven (187-F-89) had double-double of 12 points and 13 rebs. Quarters: 14-16, 16-12, 17-18, 19-12. Championship continues on Monday. France will meet Latvia, while Holland will take on Spain.

France: Ondaye-Akoa Elenga 20+9 boards, Hhadydia Minte 14+7 boards, Isabelle Strunc 11
Holland: Marlou De Kleijn 19+5 boards, Chatilla Van Grinsven 12+13 boards

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  IRELAND - Women  


Ireland U16 comes back from the International Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Ireland U16 comes back from the International Tournament with Euro B teams Scotland and Luxembourg at the Peak in Stirling.
Scotland U16 won over Ireland U16 68:56. Trailing 4-11 after the first period, Scotland grabbed 35-33 at the halftime. They did not allow the opponents to come closer and dominated the rest of the game. THOMSON Sarah stepped up with 11 points and PEACOCK Hannah scored 10. MCGRATH Alison and MCNAMEE Lorna answered with 10 points each in the losing case.
In the last game Scotland U16 rolled over Ireland U16 77:40. It was an easy start with 14-1 for the winners and then had 24:5 at the end of the quarter. Scotland increased to massive 42:10 at the halftime and easily reached 61L25 at the end of the third period. PEACOCK Hannah paced all the winners with 13 points and 16 boards, while THOMSON Sarah notched 12. O'DONNELL Aedin replied with 7 points in the losing effort.



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  ISRAEL - Women  


U20 Israel grabs 60-59 thriller win against U20 Estonia in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 Israel - U20 Estonia 60-59

Very exciting game was played between Israel and Estonia in Ohrid. Israeli managed to grab 60-59 victory for perfect 2-0 record in Group B. On the other side, Estonia stays winless after two days. Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) came up with 18 points for Israel, and Bar Galinski (185-F-92) helped with double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds. Eloisa Katz (182-F/C-91) followed them with 12 pts. In Estonia, Janett Perv (181-F/G-91) shined with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Maaja Bratka (190-F/C-92) scored 11 points (6 rebs) and Annika Koster (185-F/C-92) had one less (7 rebs). Quarters: 20-15, 19-14, 14-15, 7-15. In Day Three of the championship, Israel will meet Czech Republic. Estonia will take on Greece.

Israel: Hadar Gutin 18, Bar Galinski 13+11 boards, Eloisa Katz 12
Estonia: Janett Perv 18+5 boards, Maaja Bratka 11+6 boards, Annika Koster 10+7 boards

U20 Czech Republic stays undefeated in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 Israel - U20 Czech Republic 58-61

It was a game between two undefeated teams in Ohrid. Czech Republic jumped to 3-0 in Group B thanks to 61-58 victory today. Of course, Israel dropped to 2-1 after this loss. Alena Hanusova (190-F/C-91) exploded with 26 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Petra Zaplatova (175-G/F-91) scored 14 points and Lenka Bartakova (176-G-91) helped with 6 pts. In defeat, Bar Galinski (185-F-92) was good once again collecting 22 points and 9 rebounds. Eloisa Katz (182-F/C-91) (6 rebs) and Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) netted 10 points each. Czech Republic made 17-21 in the first quarter and jumped to 31-39 until the halftime. Third period belonged to Israel 18-14 and they won Q4 also with 9-8. However, that was not enough for a turn and Israel faced with their first loss in Ohrid. On Tuesday, Czech Republic will play against Belgium, while Israel will meet Greece.

Israel: Bar Galinski 22+9 boards, Eloisa Katz 10+6 boards, Hadar Gutin 10
Czech Republic: Alena Hanusova 26+11 boards, Petra Zaplatova 14, Lenka Bartakova 6

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  ITALY - Women  


U20 EuroBasket: Italy advances to Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
U20 Belarus - U20 Italy 51-82

Italy destroyed Belarus 82-51 in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Zrenjanin. Thanks to this victory Italy finished this stage as No.2 of Group C with 2-1 record and advanced to Qualifying Round. They will be transferred to Group F. On the other side, Belarus ended as the last ranked team in this pool with 0-3 and they will continue in Classification Round from 13th to 16th place. Laura Spreafico (182-F/G-91) came up with 16 points and 6 assists for the winners. Federica Tognalini (183-F-91) had 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Irene Cigliani (177-G-92) added 12 pts. In defeat, Maryia Filonchyk (189-C/F-92) shined with 18 points and 9 rebounds. Maryia Papova (186-F-94) and Ksenija Voishal (179-F-94) scored 9 and 8 points respectively. Quarters: 15-11, 9-21, 13-29, 14-21. Championship continues on Monday. Participants of Group F will also be France, Holland, Spain, United Kingdom and Latvia.

Belarus: Maryia Filonchyk 18+9 boards, Maryia Papova 9, Ksenija Voishal 8
Italy: Laura Spreafico 16+6 as, Federica Tognalini 13+12 boards, Irene Cigliani 12

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  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


Luxembourg U16 participated in Stirling - by Eurobasket News
Luxembourg U16 participated in Stirling at the International Tournamnet. Scotland U16 overcame Luxembourg U16 69:58. The Scottish team took 11-9 lead in the opening tip and increased to 26-16 after the first 10 minutes. They increased to 37:26 at the halftime, while Luxembourg reduced to 49:41 after thirty minutes of the game. The last period however belonged to Scotland that had 59:46 midway through it and had the necessary win. Sarah Thomson stepped up with 23 points and 15 rebounds, while PEACOCK Hannah notched 14. Alexa Sanelli (171-F-95) replied with 16 points, while JABLONOWSKI Lisa scored 15.
In Day 2 Luxembourg U16 edged Ireland U16 76:42. Luxembourg U16 grabbed 7-5 in the first five minutes and increased to 21-11 at the end of the first frame. The lead continued to grow in the rest of the game as the favorites reached the victory. HOFFMANN Noemie paced all the winners with 21 points and JABLONOWSKI Lisa collected 12 points and 10 rebounds. SHEEHAN Jennifer and KEOGHEGAN Orla replied with 8 points each in the losing effort.



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  POLAND - Women  


U20 Ukraine hands 62-57 loss to U20 Poland, both teams advance - by Eurobasket News
U20 Poland - U20 Ukraine 57-62

Ukraine was better than Poland 62-57 in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Novi Sad. There is a three-way tie on top of Group A now with Ukraine, Poland and Serbia all having 2-1 record. In this circle Serbia is No.1, Poland is No.2 and third place belongs to Ukraine despite this win. All of them advanced to the Qualifying Round (Group E). Alina Iagupova (181-G-92, agency: LBM Management) erupted with 16 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91, agency: LBM Management) had 16 points and 9 boards, while Olesia Malashenko (189-F-91, agency: LBM Management) helped with double-double of 13 points and 10 rebs. In Poland, Dorota Mistygacz (183-F/C-92) shined with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Malgorzata Misiuk (184-F-91) (8 rebs) and Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) scored 10 and 9 points respectively. Quarters: 11-15, 12-21, 9-11, 25-15. Competition continues on Monday. Participants of Group E are also Russia, Lithuania and Turkey.

Poland: Dorota Mistygacz 12+11 boards, Malgorzata Misiuk 10+8 boards, Magdalena Zietara 9
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 16+10 boards+7 as, Olga Maznichenko 16+9 boards, Olesia Malashenko 13+10 boards

Utex ROW is building roster for the upcoming season - by Lukasz Lukaszewski
Utex Row Rybnik signed new coach. Kazimierz Mikolajec will start new season as head coach of this club. Team management also added three players to the roster. In the
upcoming season club will also have new name. Utex Row Rybnik becomes ROW Rybnik.

Utex ROW ended last season on the place 12th place. Club lost place in the PLKK, but management decided to buy wildcard. President of the club- Gabriela Wistuba also make a
revolution in ROW Rybnik. She signed new coach Kazimierz Mikolajec and change the name of the club.

Club management also started building roster for the new season. It is sure that the best player from the last season Laurie Koehn (173-G-82, college: Kansas St.) abandoned Utex Row Rybnik. But club was able to extend the contract with Rebecca Harris (176-G-86, college: Illinois). She averaged 16 points, 6,5 rebounds and 3.2 assists in the 2010/2011 season. ROW Rybnik also added two young polish players who spent last years in Arcus SMS PZKosz Lomianki. It will be: Natalia Przekop (169-G/F-91) and Aldona Morawiec (183-F-92). Club is also negotiating with some other players, but the contracts are not signed yet.

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  PORTUGAL - Women  


U20 Sweden hands first loss to U20 Portugal - by Eurobasket News
U20 Portugal - U20 Sweden 50-67

Sweden handed the first loss to Portugal in Ohrid. They celebrated 67-50 win for 2-0 record in Group A. On the other side, Portugal dropped to 2-1. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) shined for the winners with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) had 14 points and 7 rebs, while Salome Kabengano (177-G-92) added 12 points and 9 boards. In the loosing squad, Daniela Domingues (176-F/G-92) collected 14 points and 6 rebs. Ines Faustino (167-G-92) and Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) followed her with 8 points each. Sweden did a great job in the first half and later had no troubles to keep their lead for rest of the game. Quarters: 12-19, 11-23, 14-15, 13-10. On Tuesday, Sweden will meet host FYROM. Portugal will take on Hungary.

Portugal: Daniela Domingues 14+6 boards, Ines Faustino 8, Michelle Brandao 8
Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 17+8 boards, Cleopatra Forsman-Goga 14+7 boards, Salome Kabengano 12+9 boards

Eurocup teams seen by Portuguese Coaches - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
Known the opponents of the Portuguese teams in Eurocup 2011-12, we talked to the coaches of both teams to know what their prospects for the new season, regarding the participation in European competitions.

For the current national champion, Jose Leite , the biggest news for the Quinta dos Lombos team, which makes its debut at the European level, will be the travels. 'We have to quickly learn the peculiarities existing (play after long trips, playing against teams of different physical profiles of those who are accustomed) to manage to put all our competitiveness in the field.'

Assuming the European involvement as a rise in the national basketball level, the coach makes the following analysis of opponents:

Dynamo Moscow (Russia) : 'one of the strongest teams in Europe, having won this cup in 2007 and also a regular presence in the Euroleague. It is an adversary of weight, a major motivation for our team. '

Botasspor Adana (Turkey): 'one of the most consistent clubs in Turkey, also with a long history of European participations, has immense support from his audience in home games.'

Horizon Minsk (Belarus): 'They have less history in Europe than the other two opponents, but is the current national champion. Last year, they won seven games and lost only one in the Eurocup. '

Greater competence

For Nuno Ferreira , AD Vagos coach, the fourth consecutive participation in European competition allows the team to feel more competent in the matches against opponents who poses difficulties to which the team is not used in national competitions.

With an array of adversaries considered 'difficult', the Vagos team will face teams from France and Belgium, only having to do more traveling to face the Optimum Ankara, from Turkey.

Here is the analysis by Nuno Ferreira :

Reze Nantes Basket 44 (France): 'It will be a rematch, they are a very difficult opponent, as traditionally, the French teams are.'

BC Dexia Namur Capitale (Belgium): 'a very experienced team, participating in European competition many times and usually gathers a group of very competent players.'

Optimum (Turkey) : 'is still an unknown to me, but the Turkish basketball is very strong and this team will certainly have the resources to provide a very strong squad.'



Check for more at www.porbasket.blogspot.com







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  SCOTLAND - Women  


Scotland U16 won the tournament at the Peak - by Eurobasket News
Scotland U16 women won the tournament at the Peak in Stirling. Scotland u16 women won the tournament with 2 impressive wins against Ireland and 1 win and 1 loss against Luxembourg.
Scotland U16 overcame Luxembourg U16 69:58. The Scottish team took 11-9 lead in the opening tip and increased to 26-16 after the first 10 minutes. They increased to 37:26 at the halftime, while Luxembourg reduced to 49:41 after thirty minutes of the game. The last period however belonged to Scotland that had 59:46 midway through it and had the necessary win. Sarah Thomson stepped up with 23 points and 15 rebounds, while PEACOCK Hannah notched 14. Alexa Sanelli (171-F-95) replied with 16 points, while JABLONOWSKI Lisa scored 15.
In Day 2 Scotland U16 won over Ireland U16 68:56. Trailing 4-11 after the first period, Scotland grabbed 35-33 at the halftime. They did not allow the opponents to come closer and dominated the rest of the game. Sarah Thomson stepped up with 11 points and PEACOCK Hannah scored 10. MCGRATH Alison and MCNAMEE Lorna answered with 10 points each in the losing case.
In the last game Scotland U16 rolled over Ireland U16 77:40. It was an easy start with 14-1 for the winners and then had 24:5 at the end of the quarter. Scotland increased to massive 42:10 at the halftime and easily reached 61L25 at the end of the third period. PEACOCK Hannah paced all the winners with 13 points and 16 boards, while Sarah Thomson notched 12. O'DONNELL Aedin replied with 7 points in the losing effort.



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  SERBIA - Women  


U20 Serbia ends as No.1 of Group A in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News
U20 Serbia - U20 Germany 82-68

Serbia is the winner of Preliminary Group A in Novi Sad. They outplayed Germany 82-68 for 2-1 record in this pool. The host of U20 EuroBasket advanced to the Qualifying Round and will be placed in Group E. On the other side, Germany (0-3) failed to reach the next stage and they will continue in Classification Round. Marina Markovic (181-G/F-91) scored 17 points and grabbed 5 rebounds for the hosts. Snezana Colic (176-G-92) had 16 pts and 6 assists, while Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) added 12 points and 8 boards. Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92) responded with 23 points and 12 rebounds in defeat. Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) scored 13 pts (5 rebs) and Svenja Brunckhorst (178-G-91) stopped to 10 pts (5 as). Quarters: 14-9, 22-14, 18-27, 28-18. Championship continues on Monday, when Serbia will meet Turkey.

Serbia: Marina Markovic 17+5 boards, Snezana Colic 16+6 as, Sara Krnjic 12+8 boards
Germany: Sonja Greinacher 23+12 boards, Finja Schaake 13+5 boards, Svenja Brunckhorst 10+5 as

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  SPAIN - Women  


Gonzalez comes back to Isla de Tenerife, Arxil renewed with Lago, Tuda and Fernandez - by Eurobasket News
Yaiza Gonzalez (190-C-88) comes back to Isla de Tenerife for the next season. In 2007-2008 the Spanish Center joined Gran Canaria La Caja de Canarias (LFB) and in EuroCup averaged 1.5ppg, 1.0rpg. In 2008-2009 moved to Tenerife Aguere (LF2) and in 28 games improved to 7.6ppg, 3.6rpg, 2FGP: 55.0%, FT: 69.0%. In 2009-2010 for Aguere Santa Cruz de Tenerife (LF2, starting five) she had 11.3ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 45%, 3PT: 25%, FT: 68%. The last season Yaiza Gonzalez played for C.B. Uni-Cajacanarias Santa Cruz (LF2, starting five).
C.B. Arxil Pontevedra meanwhile renewed with Maria Lago (F), Jara Tuda (G-91) and Carla Fernandez (PG-89). The latter played for Codigalco Carmelitas Ourense (LF2) before heading to C.B. Arxil Pontevedra (LF2) last season. Jara Tuda joined the team in 2009-2010 and debuted with 1.4ppg. Maria Lago is a young Spanish Forward who also joined the team last season. The team will announce later on signing or keeping more players.



Jopisa Ciudad de Burgos bring Laura Herrera and keep Morrison, Infante, Menendez and Pablos - by Eurobasket News
Jopisa Ciudad de Burgos bring Laura Herrera (190-C/F-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and keep Ziomara Morrison (193-C-89), Lorena Infantes (171-PG-81), Celia Menendez (188-C-90) and Lucia Pablos (172-PG-85, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Northeastern) for 2011/2012 season.
Laura Herrera started her career in 2007-2008 for USP CEU - Adecco Estudiantes (LF2, starting five). In 30 games she averaged 7.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 33.0%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 64.0%. In 2008-2009 for USP-CEU MMT Estudiantes (LFB) Laura had 6.9ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT-3 (100.0%), FT: 61.8%. In 2009-2010 moved to MMT Estudiantes Madrid (LFB, starting five) and in 26 games improved to 9.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 55.3%, FT: 65.2%. Last season Laura appeared for Rivas Ecopolis (LFB) and debuted in Euroleague with 2.1ppg, 1.0rpg, while in Spanish League showed 2.7ppg, 2.5rpg.
Ziomara Morrison will remain in Jopisa Ciudad de Burgos. Chilean Center joined the team last season after coming from Club D.Baloncesto Aros Leon. The National team player was the top player fro Chile at the South American Championships in Santiago (Chile) and became the third top-scorer with 18.5ppg), Reb-1 (11.3rpg), 2.0apg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 75.8%.
Lorena Infantess started last season for C.B. Olesa Espanyol (LFB, starting five),but then moved to Arranz-Jopisa Burgos (LF2, starting five).
Celia Menendez also joined the team in the middle of the season. She started 2010-2011 for Cadi la Seu D'urgell (LFB) and in Jan.'11 moved to Arranz-Jopisa Burgos (LF2).
For Lucia Pablos it will be the third straight season with the team. In 2009-2010 for Arranz-Jopisa Burgos (LF2, starting five) she averaged 9.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 53%, 3PT: 36%, FT: 76%.



Asjha Jones heads to Rivas Ecopolis - by Eurobasket News
Asjha Jones (188-F-80, college: Connecticut) heads to Rivas Ecopolis for the next season. Recently the the American Forward plays for Connecticut Sun. With her team she stays since the very beginning as Jones also graduated from Connecticut (NCAA, starting five). In 2001-2002 she helped lead her team to an undefeated 39-0 record her senior season, only the third time in the history of women's basketball; Ranks 11th on UConn's all time scoring list (1,502), 5th in blocks (151), and 9th in rebounds (794); Holds UConn's all-time record for games played with 144, never missing a contest during her four year career.
This season Asjha Jones recorded 20 points at the Regular Season Round 3. Sylvia Fowles however had 23 points and 13 rebounds to lead the Chicago Sky to a 78-75 victory over the Connecticut Sun. Renee Montgomery scored 22 points and Asjha Jones added 20 for the Sun.
In 2009-2010 played for UMMC Ekaterinburg (Russia-A Superleague), but was released in Dec.'09. In Euroleague after 6 games she avearged 7.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 45.0%, FT: 66.7%. In Russian League after 6 games her stats read 9.8ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 64.9%, FT: 72.7%.


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  SWEDEN - Women  


U20 Sweden hands first loss to U20 Portugal - by Eurobasket News
U20 Portugal - U20 Sweden 50-67

Sweden handed the first loss to Portugal in Ohrid. They celebrated 67-50 win for 2-0 record in Group A. On the other side, Portugal dropped to 2-1. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) shined for the winners with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) had 14 points and 7 rebs, while Salome Kabengano (177-G-92) added 12 points and 9 boards. In the loosing squad, Daniela Domingues (176-F/G-92) collected 14 points and 6 rebs. Ines Faustino (167-G-92) and Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) followed her with 8 points each. Sweden did a great job in the first half and later had no troubles to keep their lead for rest of the game. Quarters: 12-19, 11-23, 14-15, 13-10. On Tuesday, Sweden will meet host FYROM. Portugal will take on Hungary.

Portugal: Daniela Domingues 14+6 boards, Ines Faustino 8, Michelle Brandao 8
Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 17+8 boards, Cleopatra Forsman-Goga 14+7 boards, Salome Kabengano 12+9 boards

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  UKRAINE - Women  


U20 Ukraine hands 62-57 loss to U20 Poland, both teams advance - by Eurobasket News
U20 Poland - U20 Ukraine 57-62

Ukraine was better than Poland 62-57 in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Novi Sad. There is a three-way tie on top of Group A now with Ukraine, Poland and Serbia all having 2-1 record. In this circle Serbia is No.1, Poland is No.2 and third place belongs to Ukraine despite this win. All of them advanced to the Qualifying Round (Group E). Alina Iagupova (181-G-92, agency: LBM Management) erupted with 16 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91, agency: LBM Management) had 16 points and 9 boards, while Olesia Malashenko (189-F-91, agency: LBM Management) helped with double-double of 13 points and 10 rebs. In Poland, Dorota Mistygacz (183-F/C-92) shined with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Malgorzata Misiuk (184-F-91) (8 rebs) and Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) scored 10 and 9 points respectively. Quarters: 11-15, 12-21, 9-11, 25-15. Competition continues on Monday. Participants of Group E are also Russia, Lithuania and Turkey.

Poland: Dorota Mistygacz 12+11 boards, Malgorzata Misiuk 10+8 boards, Magdalena Zietara 9
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 16+10 boards+7 as, Olga Maznichenko 16+9 boards, Olesia Malashenko 13+10 boards

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  USBA - Women  


Southeast Toyota extends sponsor- vendor relationship with WUSBA thru 2012 - by USBA Media
Atlanta, Ga., (July 10, 2011) --- Southeast Toyota has agreed to continue a vendor and sponsor relationship with the Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA). The agreement will include the purchase of sixteen 2011 Toyota Corolla sedans for distribution in the 2011 WUSBA Single Ticket Extravaganza. The agreement establishes Toyota as the second automotive supplier and vendor to the WUSBA. The current agreement will expire in December 2012.

'We now have the two best automotive companies as our vendor and sponsors. After many years as the leader in automotive sales and its emphasis on customer service in the automotive business, Toyota is a great choice for the WUSBA. We believe they are a perfect fit for our league', said Duane Jenkins, WUSBA president and C.E.O. 'Toyota supports sports all over the world and hugely in the southeast United States, this relationship between the WUSBA and Toyota strengthen our commitment to our fans and customers in the southeastern market, particularly the families we serve'. 'Additionally, the WUSBA's expansion plans throughout the southeast are natural fit with the multitude of Toyota dealerships in the WUSBA footprint of teams'.

As one of the automotive supplier to the WUSBA, Toyota will receive non-exclusive rights to all twenty teams in each WUSBA cities. The agreement will deliver expanded exposure across the WUSBA's southern footprint, allowing Toyota the ability to continue to enhance consumer experiences around their passion for the sport of basketball. The agreement includes usage of Toyota automobiles as display vehicles for WUSBA special events. Toyotas brand and intellectual properties will be used for local arena exposure and on-site activation at all WUSBA local team basketball games. The Corolla , Toyota's bestselling car and will be the main entitlement of the WUSBA awards, including representation at the mid season WUSBA Classic All-Star game, the WUSBA Championship Playoff series and the Cora Lee Hunter Memorial Championship. In addition to the partnership with the WUSBA, Toyota will also be a sponsor of existing WUSBA Youth Outreach initiatives including the 2011 WUSBA Single Ticket Extravaganza. 'The WUSBA partnership with Southeast Toyota and their dealership group is fantastic for the WUSBA, it give our fans one quality vehicle,' said Jenkins, Toyota has made a long-term commitment to the WUSBA and we look forward to working together as grow our business. 'I have owned many Toyota's over the years and they have always been one my favorite choices, I indeed can personally vouch for the quality of their vehicles.'

Toyota joins the WUSBA's corporate family including: Official suppliers, vendors and sponsors such as, Air Tran Airlines, Schwinn Bicycle, Outback Steakhouse, Golden Corral Buffet, Gatorade, InterContinental Hotels, Subway, Visa International and others.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toyota Southeast is located in Jacksonville, Florida. The company is involved in the manufacture and sales of automobiles, vans and trucks. Toyotas customer loyalty and customer satiation is legendary. Toyota is the third largest automotive manufacture in the world and is currently number one in sales in the United States.

The WUSBA Single Ticket Extravaganza is single ticket promotion. Each fan that purchases a single game ticket during the course of the regular season, will receive inclusion in a year end raffle. The Grand prize of the WUSBA 2011 Single Ticket Extravaganza is a 2011 Toyota Corolla CE 4 door sedan. The league will give one car away in each team city.

Women's United States Basketball Association is a womens professional basketball league based in the United States and features many players from the U.S. and around the world. The 2011 regular season will commence on August 27, 2011 and will conclude November 5, 2011. The league has expansion plans that will develop additional teams within its American footprint.



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  WBCBL - Women  


Columbus Lady Wings' rally, but Montgomery Dream holds on - by Willie McCray
The Columbus Lady Wings were able to climb back into the lead after the Montgomery Dreams first nine-point run on Saturday at Northside but could not do the same again as Montgomery scored the final nine points for an 86-79 victory in the Lady Wings final regular-season home game.

We just kept fighting hard, kept scratching and kept playing until the end, something we haven't been doing after the third quarter, Lady Wings coach Mike Davis said.
We've just been playing and laying down. Tonight we kept fighting and fighting, and it could have been anybody's game.

Columbus (2-6) sits in third place in the South Division of the Women's Blue Chip Basketball League and still stands a chance at reaching the Women's Blue Chip Basketball League playoffs, but reaching the postseason requires winning next week and getting some help in the form of a loss by the Newberry Lady Panthers.
The Lady Wings led 19-16 at the end of first quarter, and the teams went to halftime tied at 37.

Montgomery took the lead less than a minute into the third period and scored 18 of the first 23 points of the quarter, including a 90-second run in which Dream guard Santana Seay scored nine consecutive points.

We missed assignments, Davis said of the Montgomery run. There were different subs out of position. We might have put a forward in for a guard, and they weren't checking back and weren't getting back.
Montgomery used the third-quarter burst to take a 66-58 lead into the fourth quarter and led by as many as nine points at 77-68 when the Lady Wings used an 11-point run to take their final lead of the game at 79-77.

Lady Wings forward Trevesha Jackson scored 10 of her 25 points in the fourth quarter and said Columbus was able to take advantage of its conditioning and depth in the fourth quarter, leading to the rally.

We noticed that they were a little more tired than us and we had more people, so we tried to sub, sub, sub, said Jackson, who added 15 rebounds and three blocks. If you were tired, they'll call you out.

Shanika Carter and Jackson hit consecutive shots from inside the post to trim Montgomery's lead to 77-72 with 3:28 left in the game. LeDella English then went 3-for-4 from the free-throw line on a pair of technical fouls and Jackson added a pair of free throws immediately after to tie the game at 77.

Jackson then added a field goal to give the Lady Wings their first lead of the second half at 79-77 with 2:20 remaining in the game, but the advantage was short-lived.
Montgomery took back the lead on a Rhonda Brown 3-pointer 20 seconds later and scored the final six points of the game.
The Lady Wings close the regular season at the Gulf Coast Storm on July 16.

-- Chris White, 706-571-8571; follow Chris online at twitter.com/le_chriswhite and at facebook.com/lechriswhite.

Read more: http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2011/07/10/1651812/womens-blue-chip-basketball-league.html#ixzz1RjSjUxlD

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  WNBA - Women  


Moore scores career-high 26 points to lead Lynx to 90-67 win over Sun - by Eurobasket News
Minnesota Lynx rookie Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut) said some of her favorite times on the basketball court occured while playing next to Tina Charles at the University of Connecticut.

With Charles - and two other former UConn teammates - on the other side of the court on Saturday, Moore had one of her best moments in the WNBA.

Moore scored a season-high 26 points, and Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) added 20 as Minnesota beat the Connecticut Sun 90-67 on Saturday night.

Playing against Charles, Renee Montgomery (5'7''-G-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut), and Kalana Greene was just the motivation Moore needed to break through for her biggest game at the pro level.

I think it forced me to focus even more because I know how talented they are, how competitive and how good they can be, Moore said. This was a game where I just wanted to make sure I was mentally prepared. I felt good in warmups and practice leading up to the game. Im just happy with the results.

Rebekkah Brunson (6'3''-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) added 12 points and 10 rebounds to help Minnesota (7-3) pull into a tie with San Antonio for first place in the Western Conference.

Renee Montgomery scored 14 points to lead Connecticut (6-4). Charles was held to a season-low six points and eight rebounds.

The Lynx outscored the Sun 23-6 in the third quarter to pull away for their second straight win and tying the best 10-game start in franchise history.

It was our defense, Moore said of the third quarter. When we play defense like that, especially at home, thats the way we want to play and it really sparked our offense.

With new WNBA President Laurel Richie in attendance, the energetic Brunson demonstrated why she is the leagues rebounding leader, and Moore was showing why she was the No. 1 overall pick in this years draft.

Moore scored 11 points in the first quarter to put Minnesota in front while the Sun were shooting 47.6 percent against the Lynxs league-leading defense. Moore then led Minnesotas third-quarter push with seven points. She finished 6 for 9 on 3-pointers.

When you have played with somebody for so long, you kind of know what shots are going to go in and what arent, Montgomery said of the matchup with Moore. You know if you leave her open, they are going.

The Sun took an early advantage doing just what it has all season, shooting the ball. Connecticut entered third in the league in scoring, but eventually the Lynxs defense took control.

Minnesota is holding teams to a league-low 39.7 percent shooting. After its strong opening quarter, the Sun shot just 30 percent the rest of the way.

Connecticut shot 2 for 18 in the pivotal third quarter.

They were just way better than us, Sun coach Mike Thibault said. They played great and we did not. Their defensive pressure in the second half was way better than the first and way better than ours. If youre 2 for 18 in a quarter youre probably not going to win too many times.

Charles, the leagues third-leading scorer, was held to single digits for just the second time this season and finished 3 of 13 shooting.

Minnesotas veteran center Taj McWilliams-Franklin helped keep Charles in check.

That was something that we were really confident in going into the game, Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve said. We fight the post as good as anyone in the league. We limited the touches, and when they did have touches, it was a little bit difficult for them.

Connecticut dropped to 1-4 on the road in the opener of a three-game swing away from home.

I think its a struggle point for everybody in the league right now, Thibault said of the road troubles. There are not a lot of road wins happening.

The big third-quarter by the Lynx was the separation in what had been a close game. There were seven lead changes and 10 ties during the first half.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.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 


Sky rally to beat Dream - by Eurobasket News
It is no secret what the Sky's game plan is each time they take the floor - get the ball inside to Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) as often as possible.

However, feeding Fowles isn't always as easy as it sounds. Opposing defenses tend to make it difficult for her to get the ball.

But in an encouraging sign going forward, the Sky were able to compile a strong second half and surge past Atlanta 81-69 Saturday night for their second consecutive victory.

'I don't want to say it was a tale of two halves, but we did the difficult stuff in the second half,' Sky coach Pokey Chatman said.

The Dream held Fowles, the WNBA's leading scorer, to just 10 points - her lowest output in a Sky victory this season. But the Sky, behind Epiphanny Prince (5'9''-G-88, college: Rutgers), Courtney Vandersloot (5'8''-G-89, college: Gonzaga) and Michelle Snow (6'5''-C-80, agency: LBM Management, college: Tennessee), mounted an offensive outburst in the second half on the heels of a strong defensive effort.

'We found a way to play through (Fowles) and around her and still win the basketball game,' Chatman said. 'It is encouraging.'

The Dream collapsed their defense around Fowles in the first half, forcing 15 turnovers to open a 39-31 lead.

'I said we should send them a thank-you card because we should've been down 18,' Chatman said.

In the second half, the Sky took much better care of the ball and went on a 10-2 run to tie the score quickly.

Prince, who kept the Sky close in the first half, finished with 24 points. Vandersloot had 16 to go with nine assists and Snow added 13 points.

Courtesy of http://articles.chicagotribune.com

Cash leads Storm past Sparks 99-80 - by Eurobasket News
Swin Cash (6'2''-F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Connecticut) had 16 of her 26 points in the third quarter to help the Seattle Storm beat the Los Angeles Sparks 99-80 on Saturday night.

Tanisha Wright added 21 points, Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) had 17 and Katie Smith (5'11''-G-74, college: Ohio St.) 13 for Seattle (6-4), which remained in fourth place in the Western Conference.

Rookie Jantel Lavender (6'4''-C-88, college: Ohio St.) had career highs of 21 points and nine rebounds in her first start for Los Angeles (4-6), which lost its fifth straight overall and dropped to 0-6 on the road.

DeLisha Milton-Jones scored 19 points and Kristi Toliver had 17 points for the Sparks in her first start of the season.

The Storm beat the Sparks for the eighth consecutive game in Seattle since a loss in 2006.

Seattle scored a season high after entering the game averaging a league-low 69 points per game.

Cash had 10 points during a 14-3 run midway through the third quarter to help give the Storm an eight-point lead. Bird, who had nine points in the quarter, hit a 3-pointer with 3 seconds left to make it 70-60 Seattle.

The Storm broke the game wide open with a 9-0 run early in the fourth to stretch their advantage to 79-62 with 7:41 left. Smith hit three 3s in the fourth quarter en route to her season high in points.

Wright and Le'coe Willingham (12) also scored season highs.

Milton-Jones scored nine and Lavender eight to help the Sparks to a 39-38 halftime lead.

Wright had eight of her 12 first-half points in the second quarter to keep the Storm close.

Los Angeles has lost five straight for the first time since 2007.

Seattle shot 35 of 64 (55 percent) from the field, including 9 for 17 on 3s.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Mystics fall 68-57 to Fever - by Eurobasket News
Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) became the WNBA's all-time steals leader with a flurry.

The Indiana Fever forward got five of her six steals in the final 6 minutes against Washington to turn a close game into a 68-57 win on Saturday night.

Catchings record was potentially short-lived Ticha Penicheiro (5'11''-G-74, college: ODU), the player she passed, was set to play for the Los Angeles Sparks a few hours later. But at least for a while, Catchings was No. 1.

Its cool, she said. Its definitely an honor.

The Fever scored nine of their final 11 points on possessions gained because of her steals.

In one way, it doesnt surprise me that she does things like that, said Erin Phillips (5'8''-G-85), who led the Fever with 14 points. Im in awe of her. She can turn a game straight around.

Catchings also had 10 points, seven rebounds, four assists and three blocks for the Fever (9-3), who have the best record in the league. She made just 4 of 13 shots, but still put her stamp on the game.

You might be missing shots, but the one thing, no matter what, that you always have control over is the way you play defense, she said. Thats the one thing that I want my teammates to take from me.

The Fever held Washington (2-8) to seven points in the final period, the second fewest points Indiana has ever allowed in a fourth quarter. The Mystics went scoreless for the final 4:53 as Indiana closed the game on a 9-0 run.

Washington shot 10 for 19 in the first quarter, but 12 for 38 the rest of the game. The Mystics shot 3-for-10 and had nine turnovers in the fourth quarter.

We played well for three quarters, Washington coach Trudi Lacey said. Indiana came out physical and tough in the second half. It was about execution, and we had too many turnovers for them to make easy baskets.

Nicky Anosike (6'3''-C-86, college: Tennessee) scored 12 points and Marissa Coleman added 11 for the Mystics. Washingtons Crystal Langhorne, the leagues No. 5 scorer at 18.1 points per game, sat out because of back pain.

Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) scored 12 points, and Shavonte Zellous and Jessica Davenport each added 11 for Indiana, which has won both games since point guard Briann Januarys season-ending ACL tear.

Indiana won 89-80 at Washington on June 21 to start its win streak.

Zellous acrobatic layup less than a minute into the fourth quarter gave Indiana its first lead of the game, 51-50, after the Fever had trailed by 11 points.

Indiana took control for good in a flurry late in the fourth. First, Catchings stole the ball and launched a long pass to Zellous, who tracked the ball down and scored.

On Washingtons next possession, Catchings picked up her fourth steal, and Zellous converted again to give Indiana a 65-57 lead with 2:54 remaining.

Washington led 33-25 at halftime after holding the Fever to 32 percent shooting in the first 20 minutes.

Davenports second basket of the third quarter trimmed the deficit to 36-35 and forced the Mystics to call timeout. Washington pushed its lead back to seven, with help from a 3-pointer by Coleman, but the Fever rallied again. A layup by Tammy Sutton-Brown as time expired in the third quarter cut Washingtons lead to 50-49.

Indiana dominated the fourth quarter, making the Fever 2-0 since Phillips took over as the starting point guard.

Its a very challenging role, but Im playing with great players who are helping me out, Phillips said. Were winning and were playing well. Im just happy to contribute in any way I can.

Phillips is glad one of those great players helping her is Catchings.

Shes a superstar, she said. Shes the best defensive player to play the game.

Courtesy of www.washingtontimes.com