Eurobasket Daily News Report: 7/17/2011 1:00:00 AM

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/17/2011 1:00:00 AM

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Men News

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AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16

Egypt and Tunisia to meet in the Finals - by Eurobasket News
Egypt and Tunisia advanced to the Big Final of U16 AfroBasket. They will fight for the Gold today at 18h.
Egypt eliminated Angola in the Semifinal. It was a 106-41 blowout win for the host of this event. Egypt took control on Angola from the very beginning and never looked back after that. Thay dominated in all basketball elements and celebrated huge victory at the end. Angola will play for the Bronze against Mali.
Tunisia had to work very hard in order to beat Mali in the Semis. They registered tiny 51-49 victory.
In the Classification Games from 5th to 8th place, Algeria cruised past Congo-Brazaville 68-50. In the other game, Mozambique handed 69-61 loss to South Africa. It means that Algeria and Mozambique will meet today in the game for fifth place. Congo-Brazaville and South Africa will meet each other and the winner will avoid last place in Egypt.

Semifinals
Egypt - Angola 106-41
Tunisia - Mali 51-49

Places 5-8
Congo-Brazaville - Algeria 50-68
South Africa - Mozambique 61-69

Final Day
Big Final: Egypt - Tunisia
Places 3-4: Angola - Mali
Places 5-6: Algeria - Mozambique
Places 7-8: Congo-Brazaville - South Africa

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ALGERIA

U16 Algeria hands 68-50 loss to U16 Congo-Brazaville - by Eurobasket News
U16 Algeria made the first step forward to fifth place at U16 AfroBasket in Egypt. They handed 68-50 loss to U16 Congo-Brazaville yesterday. In the other game, Mozambique was better than South Africa 69-91, so Algeria and Mozambique will fight for the fifth place. The game is scheduled for today at 13h. Two hours before that, Congo-Brazaville and South Africa will meet each other. The winner will avoid the last place at this event. Also today will be played the Big Finals. Egypt and Tunisia will fight for the Gold. That game will start at 18h. Angola and Mali will play for the Bronze before that.

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ANGOLA

U16 Egypt destroys U16 Angola 106-41, heads to Big Final - by Eurobasket News
U16 Egypt extended its winning streak to five. They blasted U16 Angola 106-41 in the Semifinals of U16 AfroBasket. In the other Semis, Tunisia was better than Mali 51-49, so Egypt and Tunisia will fight for the Gold. The meeting is scheduled for today at 18h. Egypt took control on Angola from the very beginning and never looked back after that. They dominated in all basketball elements and celebrated huge victory at the end. Angola will play for the Bronze against Mali.
Egypt ended Preliminary Round as No.1 of Group A with perfect 3-0 record. They smashed Congo-Brazaville in the Quarterfinals 128-33. Angola reached Semifinals after 66-52 win against Algeria.

Angola National Team training camp - by Antonio Santos
The 1st stage of training camp of Angola National Team took place in Luanda, than the team went to France in order to continue their preparation.
The next step will be Portugal where the National Team will play a tournament in Guimares, just before they move to China where they will play the Stankovic Cup.
Schedule of the tournament
Calendrio do torneio de Guimares:

July, 22nd
18h00 - Iraq vs ANGOLA
20h00 - Portugal vs Romania

July, 23rd
15h00 - Romania vs Iraq
17h00 - Portugal vs ANGOLA

July, 24th
16h00 - ANGOLA vs Romania
18h00 - Iraq vs Portugal

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ARGENTINA

Julian Aprea joins Regatas Corrientes - by Eurobasket News
Julian Aprea (208-C-87) will play for Regatas Corrientes in the next season. The 23-year-old centre started the previous season in Obras Sanitarias. He tallied 1.5 rebounds per game in Liga A. In Februaru Julian Aprea moved to Gimnasia Villa del Parque. His stats read 10.8 points and 6.9 rebounds per game in TNA. Julian Aprea finished the season in Tijuca del Valle in Brazilian Carioca League.

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ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

India win Middle Asia SAARC Division Qualifiers Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Final
India - Sri Lanka 89:35
India celebrated victory at SAARC Division qualifiers of the Middle Asia Qualifying Round for the 26th Fiba Asia Championship. They stormed past Sri Lanka in New Delhi to book the ticket into the Fiba Asia Championship in Wuhan. Hareesh Koroth (185-G-84) knocked down 12 points to pace the winners.
India left no chance for Sri Lanka right from the start. They outscored their opponents 25:2 in the opening frame. India did not loosen the grip in the second period. They boosted the margin to 40 points at the interval 51:11. India maintained the lead easily after the big break. They headed into fourth frame up by 52 points and killed off Sri Lanka in the final period. Vishesh Bhriguvanshi (192-G-91) nailed 11 points for the winners. Amjyot Singh (203-C-92), Pal Singh and Trideep Rai (190-F-83) contributed 10 points each for the hosts. Praneeth answered with 17 points for Sri Lanka.

India: Hareesh Koroth 12, Vishesh Bhriguvanshi 11, Amjyot Singh 10, Pal Singh 10, Trideep Rai 10
Sri Lanka: Praneeth 17

3-4 place
Nepal - Bangladesh 73:62
Nepal celebrated victory at Middle Asia SAARC Division Qualifiers for Fiba Asia Championship consolation final. They shot down Bangladesh to step onto the pedestal in New Delhi. Sadish Pradhan knocked down 24 points to lead the effort.
Nepal surged in front in the opening period. They recorded a 23:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Nepal maintained the lead throughout the second term. They arrived at halftime up by 9 points 42:33. Nepal deepened the damage in the third term. They limited Bangladesh to just 9 points in the period and established a 15-point lead with one quarter remaining. Bangladesh just sweetened the pill in the fourth quarter. Binod Maharajaha posted 21 points for Nepal. Bipendra Mahrajaha contributed 12 points in the victory. Mithun Biswas answered with 21 points for Bangladesh. Shamsullaman Soyab delivered 15 points in the loss.

Nepal: Sadish Pradhan 24, Binod Maharajaha 21, Bipendra Mahrajaha 12
Bangladesh: Mithun Biswas 21, Shamsullaman Soyab 15

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AUSTRIA

U20: Spain march past Austria in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Spain U20 - Austria U20 120:47

Spain eased to the third straight win at U20 European Championship. The hosts trounced Austrian counterparts to finish with a perfect 3-0 record in Group C. Austria on the other hand suffered the third loss in a row and stayed at the bottom of the ladder.
Spain led from start to finish. The hosts erupted for 27 points in the opening frame to build a 15-point lead. Spain unloaded 38 points in the second period to aggravate the damage. They established a 65:22 halftime lead. Spain refused to slow down after the big break. They went on a full steam in the third quarter scoring 31 points and building an unassailable 96:37 lead with one quarter remaining. Spain just cruised on in the fourth term and celebrated yet another impressive win at the end. Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) tallied 28 points and 7 rebounds in just 16 minutes on the court. Alberto Jodar (204-F/C-91) contributed 18 points for the winners. Carlos Novas (197-F-92) answered with 12 points for Austria. Anton Maresch (192-G-91) had 11 points in defeat.

Spain U20: Nikola Mirotic 28, Alberto Jodar 18, Joan Tomas (201-F-92) 13
Austria U20: Carlos Novas 12, Anton Maresch 11

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Siauliai land Cam Long - by Eurobasket News
Siauliai brought in another rookie player. They agreed on terms of contract with Cam Long (193-G-88). The 22-year-old guard has just graduated from George Mason University. Cam Long tallied 15.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.4 steals per game in his senior season. Cam Long made it into All-CAA 1st Team. The guard was also named into NABC Division I All-District 10 1st Team for the second season in a row. The guard participated at Pre-NBA Draft Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. Cam Long posted 12.5 points, 4.5 boards, 1.5 steals and 1.0 assist per game there.

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BANGLADESH

Nepal roll past Bangladesh to win Bronze in New Delhi - by Eurobasket News
Nepal - Bangladesh 73:62

Nepal celebrated victory at Middle Asia SAARC Division Qualifiers for Fiba Asia Championship consolation final. They shot down Bangladesh to step onto the pedestal in New Delhi. Sadish Pradhan knocked down 24 points to lead the effort.
Nepal surged in front in the opening period. They recorded a 23:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Nepal maintained the lead throughout the second term. They arrived at halftime up by 9 points 42:33. Nepal deepened the damage in the third term. They limited Bangladesh to just 9 points in the period and established a 15-point lead with one quarter remaining. Bangladesh just sweetened the pill in the fourth quarter. Binod Maharajaha posted 21 points for Nepal. Bipendra Mahrajaha contributed 12 points in the victory. Mithun Biswas answered with 21 points for Bangladesh. Shamsullaman Soyab delivered 15 points in the loss.

Nepal: Sadish Pradhan 24, Binod Maharajaha 21, Bipendra Mahrajaha 12
Bangladesh: Mithun Biswas 21, Shamsullaman Soyab 15

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BELARUS

Belarus National Team too good for Cyprus - by Eurobasket News
Belarus - Cyprus 63:47

Belarusian National Team victoriously opened Mogilev International Friendly tournament. The hosts prevailed against Cyprus. Aliaksei Trastsinetski (201-F-86) knocked down 13 points to lead the effort. Belarus will play against Ukraine, while Cyprus will face Jordan next.
Belarus marked their dominance right from the start. They outscored the visitors 18:12 in the opening frame. Cyprus adjusted their game in the second quarter. They held Belarus to 12 points in the second period cutting the deficit at 2 points 28:30. But Belarus went off the dressing room firing from all guns. They dropped 22 points to enter the final quarter up by 11 points. Belarus held Cyprus to just 6 points in the fourth frame to celebrate a comfortable win at the end. Dzianis Korshuk (201-F-78, agency: Agency No 10) and Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) nailed 11 points each for the hosts. Christopher Razis (193-F-89) responded with 11 points for Cyprus. Christodoulos Kaskiris (206-C/F-79) and Vassilis Kounas (195-G-84) accounted for 6 points each in defeat.

Belarus: Aliaksei Trastsinetski 13, Dzianis Korshuk 11, Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 11
Cyprus: Christopher Razis 11, Christodoulos Kaskiris 6, Vassilis Kounas 6

U20: Bosnia and Herzegovina edged Belarus in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Belarus U20- Bosnia and Herzegovina U20 67:79

Bosnia and Herzegovina edged Belarus in Sarajevo in Day 3 of the European Championship. The hosts needed 79:67 for 2-1 record in Group D. Belarus still remains without victories after two games.
Belarus surprised the hosts in the start of the game and Ausepian scored for 11:4. Valiantsin Ihnatchyk (192-G-91) closed the first period at 18:8 and he brought 20:13 in the start of the second. Bosnia however bounced back later in the frame and Ranko Ivic (193-G-92) scored for 25:24. The hoists erupted with 34-16 in the second period for 42:34 at the halftime. They added 25-12 in the third quarter and enjoyed 67:46 after three quarters. Belarus could not score for the first three minutes in the last period, but managed to win the stanza 21-12.
Ranko Ivic paced all the winners with 23 points, while Dino Begagic (193-G-92) added 17. Miralem Halilovic (206-F-91) produced 16 and Nikola Gajic (195-G-91) had 11 points and 10 boards.

Belarus U20: Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) 13, Valiantsin Ihnatchyk 10
Bosnia and Herzegovina U20: Ranko Ivic 23, Dino Begagic 17, Miralem Halilovic 16, Nikola Gajic 11+10 rebs

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BELGIUM

BOSNIA

U20: Bosnia and Herzegovina edged Belarus in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Belarus U20- Bosnia and Herzegovina U20 67:79

Bosnia and Herzegovina edged Belarus in Sarajevo in Day 3 of the European Championship. The hosts needed 79:67 for 2-1 record in Group D. Belarus still remains without victories after two games.
Belarus surprised the hosts in the start of the game and Ausepian scored for 11:4. Valiantsin Ihnatchyk (192-G-91) closed the first period at 18:8 and he brought 20:13 in the start of the second. Bosnia however bounced back later in the frame and Ranko Ivic (193-G-92) scored for 25:24. The hoists erupted with 34-16 in the second period for 42:34 at the halftime. They added 25-12 in the third quarter and enjoyed 67:46 after three quarters. Belarus could not score for the first three minutes in the last period, but managed to win the stanza 21-12.
Ranko Ivic paced all the winners with 23 points, while Dino Begagic (193-G-92) added 17. Miralem Halilovic (206-F-91) produced 16 and Nikola Gajic (195-G-91) had 11 points and 10 boards.

Belarus U20: Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) 13, Valiantsin Ihnatchyk 10
Bosnia and Herzegovina U20: Ranko Ivic 23, Dino Begagic 17, Miralem Halilovic 16, Nikola Gajic 11+10 rebs

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BRAZIL

World Military Championship: Lithuania upset Brazil - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Brazil 65:61

Lithuania victoriously opened their World Military Championship campaign. They fired past Brazil in Group B. Gytis Andrijauskas (187-G-86) and Vytautas Sarakauskas (203-C-82) scored 17 points each to lead the effort.
Lithuania jumped to an early lead but Brazil quickly denied it. The hosts ensured a 23:19 advantage at the first break. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the second period. Brazil posted a 33:32 lead at the interval. Lithuania however managed to pull their noses in front in the third term. They recorded a 45:43 lead with one quarter to go. The teams went neck and neck in the fourth period but the visitors turned out more accurate in the dying seconds stealing a narrow victory at the end. Tomas Lukosevicius (200-C-80) delivered 8 points for the winners. Luiz Felipe (201-F-79) answered with 20 points for Brazil. Tiago Lima, Frederico Lima and Audrei Parisotto (195-G-84) had 8 points each in the loss.

Lithuania: Gytis Andrijauskas 17, Vytautas Sarakauskas 17, Tomas Lukosevicius 8
Brazil: Luiz Felipe 20, Tiago Lima 8, Frederico Lima 8, Audrei Parisotto 8

A.E. Americana Basketball agreed with Jeffrey Addai - by Paulo Freire
The A.E. Americana Basketball from Sao Paulo announced their first addition for the Paulista State Championship, the american point guard Jeffrey Addai (188-G-84, college: Texas A&M) that has been playing for the Rio Claro basketball team in the last few years.

Addai, who is 27 years old, agreed on a contract to compete in the 2011 Paulista State and if the team win a slot for the Brazil Cup, it lwill be automatically extended for that competition.

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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

VG Basketball Summer Jam begins this weekend - by David Edole
The Virgin Gorda Basket Ball Summer Jam will open in Virgin Gorda this Saturday.

Speaking on the Virgin Islands Party Programme Lets Talk yesterday evening, Sports Minister Andrew Fahie spoke about the development of basketball in the territory.

He said the Ministry of Education has teamed up with the Virgin Gorda Basketball Association to help with the developmental process of Basket Ball in Virgin Gorda.

Fahie said Trevor West Stephens and his team have been doing a lot for basketball in Virgin Gorda and this Saturday the Summer Jam begins

Fahie said in an effort to support them, the Ministry of Education being one of the main sponsors along with other private entities will be providing a charter on Smiths Ferry to take the public from the Road Town jetty at 6:00pm to support the league and it will return at the end of the game.

Fahie said there will be a ferry leaving the West End jetty at 6.30pm for Virgin Gorda but persons will have to pay to get in to see the games and return when the game is over.

Fahie said these are some of the events the ministry is organizing during the summer for young people to make sure they are kept active.

BVI News correspondent

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BULGARIA

U20: Bulgaria celebrated their first 2011 victory in Division B - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands U20-Bulgaria U20 68:73

Bulgaria U20 celebrated their first victory at the European Championship in Division B. After the loss in the opener, the team edged Netherlands U20 73:68 for 1-1 record. The Dutch team meanwhile dropped to 1-2 record.
Max Van Schaik (208-F-91) gave his side 14:11 in the middle of the first period, but Bulgaria closed the frame with 7-0 run as Stanislav Tsonkov (192-G-91) closed the period at 18:14. Plamen Hristov (197-F/G-91) nailed three for 31:25 and Williams was the last to post at the half for 31:35. No matter how close the Dutch team tried to come, Bulgaria was in front for the whole time finishing the third period at 55:51. Brandt however tied the game at 60:60 and Max Van Schaik brought 67:67, but Bulgaria won the game. Stanislav Tsonkov and Plamen Hristov scored the last points for the winners to set up the final result.
Konstantin Koev (195-F-91) chipped in 16 points and Plamen Hristov as well as Stanislav Tsonkov posted 14. Francis followed them with 13 points in a win. Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) replied with 16 points in defeat, whilst Max Van Schaik and Quincy Treffers (202-F-91) notched 12 apiece.

Netherlands U20: Dimeo Van Der Horst 16, Max Van Schaik 12, Quincy Treffers 12
Bulgaria U20: Konstantin Koev 16, Plamen Hristov 14, Stanislav Tsonkov 14, Francis 13

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CHINA

China Loses to Turkey, Beats Australia, Preparing for Asian Championship - by Arthur Volbert
China lost to Turkey 78-75 and defeated Australia 69-59 in games preparing for the Asian Championship.

Wang Zhizhi had 14 points against Turkey, Liu Wei had 13 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists. Wang Lei had 11 points and 3 rebounds. Wang Shipeng scored 10 but hit only 3 of 9 shots. Zhang Bo and Yu Shulong each scored 6. Mo Ke had 6 points and 5 rebounds in 18 minutes. Ding Jinhui injured his ankle early in the game and was scoreless in 4 minutes.

In the win against Australia Sun Yue had 13 points and 5 rebounds in 39 minutes. Wang Zhizhi and Liu Wei did not play. Su Wei (212-C-89) had 13 points and 5 rebounds and is looking more capable as the team's backup center. Yu Shulong had 9 points and 3 rebounds and seems to be emerging as the team's backup point guard. Zhu Fangyu had 9 points and 7 rebounds but only hit 2 of 9 shots. Wang Lei had 6 points and 6 rebounds. Mo Ke had 6 points and 2 rebounds and may beat out Zhang Zhaoxu, who had 3 points and 5 rebounds, as a backup big man. Xirelijiang had 7 points and 2 rebounds.

NBL Round 12: #1 ShenYang is defeated by Guangzhou FM - by Eurobasket News
The most surprising game was another loss of top-ranked ShenYang (9-3) on the court of sixth ranked Guangzhou FM on Saturday night. Visitors were rolled over by Guangzhou FM 118-99. The game was mostly controlled by Guangzhou FM. ShenYang managed to win third quarter 29-28. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Guangzhou FM dominated down low during the game scoring 86 of its points in the paint compared to ShenYang's 58 and made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. They outrebounded ShenYang 42-23 including a 26-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Guangzhou FM looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of Palestinian center Sani Sakakini (204-88) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!) and 13 rebounds and guard TianGang Shao (190-89) who added 22 points and 8 assists during the contest. Guangzhou FM's coach Dragan Raca used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was American forward DeAngelo Collins (206-82, college: High School) with 20 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Guangzhou FM (6-6) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Sichuan and Ningxia Hanas. ShenYang at the other side still keeps top position with three games lost. They share it with Whampoa. Guangzhou FM is looking forward to face Heilongjiang (#9) in the next round. ShenYang will play against Hangzhou (#10) and is hoping to win this game.
Very significant was Changan Group's (#4) 85-81 road victory against 5th ranked Sichuan. The winners were led by American forward Jahmar Thorpe (198-84, college: Houston) who scored that evening 24 points and 9 rebounds and Nick Stallings supported him with 15 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists. Even a double-double of 33 points (!!!) and 18 rebounds by Canadian power forward Ryan Wright (206-87, college: Oklahoma) did not help to save the game for Sichuan. Sichuan's coach Joseph Stiebing tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Changan Group have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Jiangsu. Sichuan at the other side keeps the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with Guangzhou FM and Ningxia Hanas. Changan Group will play against Ningxia Hanas (#6) in the next round. Sichuan will play against the league's second-placed Whampoa and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Third ranked Jiangsu (7-5) crushed at home 9th ranked Heilongjiang (4-8) by 29 points 99-70, which is the biggest margin this round on Saturday night. The best player for the winners was Kenny Lawson who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 13 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Benson Egemonye who recorded a double-double by scoring 27 points, 15 rebounds and 4 blocks. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Jiangsu maintains third position with 7-5 record having just two points less than leader ShenYang, which they share with Changan Group. Loser Heilongjiang dropped to the eighth place with eight games lost. They share the position with Hebei. Jiangsu will meet at home Hebei (#8) in the next round where they are favorite. Heilongjiang will play against Guangzhou FM and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 12 bottom-ranked Hangzhou lost to Whampoa on the opponent's court 96-104. Ningxia Hanas outscored Hebei in a home game 108-87.

Whampoa - Hangzhou 104-96

Very expected game when 10th ranked Hangzhou (2-10) was defeated on the road by second ranked Whampoa (9-3) 104-96 on Saturday. Hangzhou trailed by 16 points at halftime and as many as 19 after three quarters before a 29-18 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 96-104 at the end of the game. Whampoa forced 22 Hangzhou turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was forward Alan Wiggins (206-85, college: USF) who had a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds. Swingman Michael Joiner (200-81, college: Florida St.) chipped in 19 points and 7 rebounds. Whampoa's coach XuLin Wang allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Dante Milligan (206-84, college: Massachusetts, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) who recorded 23 points and 9 rebounds and forward Austen Powers (203-87, college: Seattle, agency: Tank Sports) added 16 points and 16 rebounds respectively. Five Whampoa and four Hangzhou players scored in double figures. Whampoa have a solid four-game winning streak. They used an opportunity after ShenYang lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position. Loser Hangzhou stay at the bottom place with ten games lost. Whampoa will meet Sichuan (#5) in the next round. Hangzhou will play against the league's leader ShenYang (#1) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Whampoa: W.Alan 35+15reb+2ast, J.Michael 19+7reb+3ast, Y.Ning 17+2reb+4ast, Y.ZhiYong 12+2reb, W.Jing 10+9reb, T.Chao 4+2reb+2ast
Hangzhou: M.Dante 23+9reb+3ast, P.Austen 16+16reb, Z.Honglin 12+6reb+4ast, Y.Wang 12+6reb, Y.Carrian 11+2ast, L.Wei 11+2reb

Jiangsu - Heilongjiang 99-70

Third ranked Jiangsu (7-5) crushed at home 9th ranked Heilongjiang (4-8) by 29 points 99-70, which is the biggest margin this round on Saturday night. The game without a history. Jiangsu led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Heilongjiang's players. The best player for the winners was American center Kenny Lawson (205-88, college: Creighton) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 13 rebounds. The other American import guard Justin Johnson (198-86, college: Iowa) chipped in 13 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Four Jiangsu players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Nigerian center Benson Egemonye (207-83, college: Niagara) who recorded a double-double by scoring 27 points, 15 rebounds and 4 blocks and American guard Courtney Pigram (185-85, college: E.Tenn.St.) added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Jiangsu maintains third position with 7-5 record having just two points less than leader ShenYang, which they share with Changan Group. Loser Heilongjiang dropped to the eighth place with eight games lost. They share the position with Hebei. Jiangsu will meet at home Hebei (#8) in the next round where they are favorite. Heilongjiang will play against Guangzhou FM and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Jiangsu: L.Kenny 24+13reb, J.Justin 13+8reb+7ast, Z.YanXi 12+4reb+2ast, W.YanQing 11+2ast, F.Hui 10+5reb+4ast, G.Yang 10+3reb
Heilongjiang: E.Benson 27+15reb+2ast, P.Courtney 12+5reb+4ast, H.Mengxin 9+4reb+2ast, Z.Yong-lin 8+3reb+1ast, W.Nan 6+1ast, B.Xiaohui 4+1reb+1ast

Guangzhou FM - ShenYang 118-99

The most surprising game was another loss of top-ranked ShenYang (9-3) on the court of sixth ranked Guangzhou FM on Saturday night. Visitors were rolled over by Guangzhou FM 118-99. The game was mostly controlled by Guangzhou FM. ShenYang managed to win third quarter 29-28. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Guangzhou FM dominated down low during the game scoring 86 of its points in the paint compared to ShenYang's 58 and made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. They outrebounded ShenYang 42-23 including a 26-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Guangzhou FM looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of Palestinian center Sani Sakakini (204-88) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!) and 13 rebounds and guard TianGang Shao (190-89) who added 22 points and 8 assists during the contest. Guangzhou FM's coach Dragan Raca used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was American forward DeAngelo Collins (206-82, college: High School) with 20 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists and his fellow American import guard Corey Allmond (188-88, college: Howard Col. (TX)) scored 21 points and 6 assists. Four Guangzhou FM and five ShenYang players scored in double figures. Guangzhou FM (6-6) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Sichuan and Ningxia Hanas. ShenYang at the other side still keeps top position with three games lost. They share it with Whampoa. Guangzhou FM is looking forward to face Heilongjiang (#9) in the next round. ShenYang will play against Hangzhou (#10) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Guangzhou FM: S.Sani 36+13reb+2ast, S.TianGang 22+2reb+8ast, H.Jartavious 21+8reb+1ast, L.Dapeng 12+3reb+2ast, Y.Liang 10+2reb, L.Xuesong 6+6reb+3ast
ShenYang: A.Corey 21+4reb+6ast, D.ChengLong 21+5reb+4ast, C.DeAngelo 20+8reb+5ast, C.XiaoDong 12+1reb, Y.Peng 11+3reb, Z.JunXiong 10+1reb

Sichuan - Changan Group 81-85

Very significant was Changan Group's (#4) 85-81 road victory against 5th ranked Sichuan. The guests were already 15 points ahead at halftime and as many as 18 after three quarters before a 29-15 last quarter charge of Sichuan cut the lead to 85-81 at the end of the game. Sichuan was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The winners were led by American forward Jahmar Thorpe (198-84, college: Houston) who scored that evening 24 points and 9 rebounds and the other American import guard Nick Stallings (190-83, college: Centenary) supported him with 15 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists. Stallings is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Even a double-double of 33 points (!!!) and 18 rebounds by Canadian power forward Ryan Wright (206-87, college: Oklahoma) did not help to save the game for Sichuan. Forward Ma Chao (196-86) added 25 points and 11 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). Sichuan's coach Joseph Stiebing tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Changan Group have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Jiangsu. Sichuan at the other side keeps the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with Guangzhou FM and Ningxia Hanas. Changan Group will play against Ningxia Hanas (#6) in the next round. Sichuan will play against the league's second-placed Whampoa and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Changan Group: T.Jahmar 24+9reb+2ast, J.JunQi 17+4reb+1ast, S.Nick 15+10reb+9ast, S.Jian 9+4reb+2ast, S.Lei 7+2reb+4ast, H.Bin 4+2reb+1ast
Sichuan: W.Ryan 33+18reb+1ast, C.Ma 25+11reb, J.QiZhen 7+3reb+3ast, Y.Chen 6+2reb+1ast, M.Long 5+1reb+1ast, Y.ZhaoLei 2+6reb

Ningxia Hanas - Hebei 108-87

The game between closely ranked teams ended with seventh ranked Ningxia Hanas' (6-6) home victory over 8th ranked Hebei (4-8) 108-87 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 6 points at the halftime before their 64-37 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was who had a double-double by scoring 28 points, 16 rebounds and 5 blocks. Guard Yansong Ma (185-88) chipped in 21 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Four Ningxia Hanas players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Christopher Lawson (193-83, college: Houston) who recorded 31 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists and his fellow American import power forward Terence Dials (206-83, college: Ohio St.) added 15 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Hebei's coach Jinlin Zhou gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Ningxia Hanas moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Sichuan and Guangzhou FM. Hebei lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with eight games lost. They share it with Heilongjiang. Ningxia Hanas will meet at home higher ranked Changan Group (#3) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Hebei will play against Jiangsu (#4) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Ningxia Hanas: N.Ebi 28+16reb, M.Yansong 21+5reb+5ast, Y.Kaifu 21+4reb+2ast, W.Sze 16+5reb+1ast, H.Ramon 6+4reb, S.ChunLei 5+5reb
Hebei: L.Christopher 31+7reb+7ast, D.Terence 15+7reb, L.Yiding 11+3reb, C.Zhixin 8+2reb, Z.ZhenHu 7+6reb+2ast, W.Zhi 6+5reb

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CONGO-BRAZAVILLE

CROATIA

U20: Sweden add to Croatian woes in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20 - Croatia U20 70:56

Sweden celebrated the first win at the U20 European Championship in Spain. They shocked Croatia to catch the last train into the Qualifying Round from Group B. Christopher Czerapowicz (200-SF-91) tallied 17 points and 13 rebounds to pace the Scandinavian team. Croatia in the meantime fell into classification round and would try to avoid elimination in the next three games.
Croatia and Sweden stayed close throughout the first frame. Croatia posted a 16:14 lead after ten minutes. But Sweden bounced back cutting the deficit. The teams entered the second half all tied at 32. Sweden shifted the gear in the third term. They used a 7:1 run midway through the quarter to take a 41:39 lead. Christopher Czerapowicz knocked down four points late in the quarter as the Scandinavians posted a 52:46 lead with one quarter remaining. Cutura opened the fourth frame with a layup but Sweden answered with 12:2 rally to clear off. Croatia never recovered afterwards as Sweden marched to the victory at the end. Viktor Gaddefors (200-F-92) knocked down 13 points, while Alexander Lindqvist (202-F-91) added 12 points and 9 rebounds for Sweden. Boris Barac (206-F-92) answered with 14 points for Croatia. Ivan Mikulic (194-G-91) finished with 12 points in the loss.

Sweden U20: Christopher Czerapowicz 17+13 boards, Viktor Gaddefors 13, Alexander Lindqvist 12
Croatia U20: Boris Barac 14, Ivan Mikulic 12

Cibona locks Pavle Marcinkovic until 2014 - by Eurobasket News
Pavle Marcinkovic (197-G-89) is a new member of Cibona Zagreb. The Croatian guard penned a three-year deal with the former champions. Marcinkovic is a product of Zadar, where he played last few years. He had 9.2 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 1.2 apg and 2.3 spg in Croatian league last season. He also added 6 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 1.2 spg for 25 games in Adriatic league. Zadar competed in EuroChallenge last season as well and Marcinkovic collected 7 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1.6 spg for 12 games in this competition. Pavle Marcinkovic played for U20 Croatian NT in 2009. He had 4.4 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 9 games at the European Championships U20 in Rhodos. He also played for U18 Croatia in the past. Pavle Marcinkovic was named Eurobasket.com Croatian A1 League All-Defensive Team -11. He helped Zadar reach the Croatian Cup Finals. In 2008, Marcinkovic won the league title with Zadar, but had very limited playing time that year.

Marin Rozic to skip EuroBasket 2011, Zoran Vrkic joins NT - by Eurobasket News
Marin Rozic (201-F-83) decided to skip EuroBasket in Lithuania this summer. The 28-year-old forward struggled with Achilles tendon injury, which forced him to miss first half of the season. Head Coach of the Croatian National Team Josip Vrankovic immediately reacted and called Zoran Vrkic (200-G-87) to join the squad. Vrkic split last season between Union Olimpija and Peristeri. With the Greeks, he had 12.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 1.5 apg for 15 games in A1. With Union Olimpija, Vrkic averaged 3.3 points and 1.8 rebounds for six Euroleague games. He played for the Croatian B National Team this summer. Season 2009/10, Zoran Vrkic spent with Split and he was their member in 2008/09 as well. In the past, he also played for Sibenka and Postoina. Vrkic played for U20, U18 and U16 Croatia in his career.

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CYPRUS

CZECH REPUBLIC

U20: Czech Republic conquer Group C - by Eurobasket News
Norway U20-Czech Republic U20 65:85

Czech Republic U20 conquer Group C with the perfect 3-0 record. The team edged Norway U20 85:65 in the first game of Day 3 in Division B of the European Championship.
Ondrej Peterka (202-F-91) gave the Czechs 10-2 lead and Honomichl brought 14:9. Norway tried to reduce a bit, but failed at the end of the second period and Karamo Jawara (200-F-91) could only close the half at 39:27. Czech Republic also added 23-21 in the third frame as Halada scored for 62:48 and then increased to 20 points after the win in the last frame. Ladislav Pecka (197-F-91) opened the last period with a jump shot and after 23-17 in it, Riha and Kanu exchanged threes for the final result.
Ladislav Pecka scored 19 points to lead all the winners. Tomas Vyoral (188-PG-92) and Ondrej Peterka followed them with 14 each, while Ondrej Balvin (215-C-92) netted 11. Karamo Jawara finished the game with 15 points for Norway, while Henry McCarthy (203-C/F-91, college: Lincoln Memorial), Atle Ndiaye (193-F-92) and Oeivind Lundestad (190-G-91) added 10 apiece.

Norway U20: Karamo Jawara 15, Henry McCarthy 10, Atle Ndiaye 10, Oeivind Lundestad 10
Czech Republic U20: Ladislav Pecka 19, Tomas Vyoral 14, Ondrej Peterka 14, Ondrej Balvin 11

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D-LEAGUE

Finch promoted to Rockets - by Eurobasket News
The Rio Grande Valley Vipers announced on Friday that head coach Chris Finch has earned a promotion to become an assistant coach with their parent club, the Houston Rockets.

'I want to thank everybody within the Vipers organization for all their support and professionalism over the last two years. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and working with everybody. I found the experience both rewarding and very helpful in preparing me for my next opportunity,' Finch said.

Finch becomes the second Vipers coach to earn a promotion to an NBA coaching staff, with Robert Pack, an assistant coach during the 2008-09 season, becoming an assistant coach with the New Orleans Hornets, who were one of the Vipers' parents clubs that year. Pack is now on the Los Angeles Clippers' coaching staff.

Finch is the second coach to earn a promotion to the NBA this off-season, following in the footsteps of Maine Red Claws head coach Austin Ainge, who recently joined the Boston Celtics as Director of Player Personnel. Finch is also the 29th coach to earn a promotion to the NBA in NBA Development League history.

'This is a great opportunity for Chris and I am very excited for him and his family. Chris has done an outstanding job with the Vipers and he is very deserving of this chance to be on Coach McHale's Rockets staff. During his time in the Rio Grande Valley, Chris did a terrific job of developing many of our young players while still managing to lead the Vipers to back-to-back NBA D-League Finals, including a championship two seasons ago. I have complete confidence he will bring that same winning mindset to his responsibilities with the Rockets,' said Vipers General Manager Gersson Rosas, who is also the Vice President of Player Personnel for the Rockets.

Named the third head coach in Vipers history on September 29, 2009, Finch completed the second biggest turnaround in NBA Development League history by taking the Vipers from back-to-back 21-29 records to a 34-16 record while earning the Dennis Johnson Coach of the Year award before winning the championship. Finch led the Vipers back to the Finals this past season, marking just the second time that feat has ever been accomplished. With a record of 65-33 (.663) in two seasons, Finch is not only the winningest head coach in Vipers history, but he also holds the third highest winning percentage in NBA Development League history (minimum of five games coached), behind only Hornets assistant coach Bryan Gates (Idaho Stampede, 2006-09) and Memphis Grizzlies assistant coach Dave Joerger (Dakota Wizards, 2006-07), who both finished at .666. In a 14-year career as a head coach, the 41-year old Finch holds a record of 446-221 (.679). His resume includes 13 playoff appearances while finishing either first or second in the regular season 11 times. Finch has won eight championships and five Coach of the Year awards.

Finch is also the head coach of the Great Britain National Team, who he will lead into the 2012 Olympics in London.

'We want to thank Chris for being a such a big part of our organization, both on and off the court, for the last two years. From the moment Chris arrived in the Valley, he wanted to be heavily involved in the community. I'll never forget that weekend in March when we didn't have any games. Rather than take the time off, Chris took the entire team and staff to go help Paint McAllen Beautiful. He was a great ambassador for the Rio Grande Valley everywhere he went, and I have no doubt he will continue to be that in Houston. Chris is one of the best coaches in the world and we wish him the best of luck with the Rockets,' Vipers President Bert Garcia said.

The Rockets will immediately being the search for the fourth head coach in Vipers history.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Kirk Snyder is a newcomer at Reales de La Vega - by Eurobasket Center
Reales de La Vega strengthened their roster with addition of 28-year old American forward Kirk Snyder (198-F-83, college: Nevada). Snyder started last season at Halifax Rainmen (Canada) in American league PBL, but left just after 3 games (2.0ppg, 2.7rpg). Then was tested by Maratonistas de Coamo in Puerto Rican BSN. However received a better contract in Russia playing for BC Nizhny Novgorod. However was released shortly playing just 1 game (5pts, 3reb, 1ast). Snyder is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in China, Puerto Rico and Russia.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Reales de La Vega sign Andre Hardwick - by Eurobasket Center
Reales de La Vega signed 28-year old American power forward Andre Hardwick (201-F/C-83, college: CSU Bakersfield). Hardwick played most recently at CD Universidad de Concepcion (Chile). He missed the last season and had one year break from professional basketball. His last performance we could track down was playing in Liga Americas for U de Concepcion. In 3 games he averaged 15.7ppg, 9.0rpg and 1.3apg. He helped them also win Chilean DIMAYOR Regular Season Championship. Hardwick played also pro basketball in Mexico and Portugal.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Indios de San Francisco adds Clinton to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
Indios de San Francisco added to their roster 28-year old American forward Lloyd Clinton (201-F-83, college: DeSales). Clinton played most recently at Albany Legends (IBL) in the U.S. He helped them to win IBL championship title. Clinton is a very experienced player. But despite he graduated the college six years ago, it will be his first season playing overseas.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Joshua Dollard is a newcomer at Leones de Santo Domingo - by Eurobasket Center
Leones de Santo Domingo strengthened their roster with addition of 25-year old American forward Joshua Dollard (203-F-86, college: USC Aiken). Dollard played most recently at Halifax Rainmen (Canada) in North American pro league PBL. While playing 17 games for Halifax R. this season he averaged 17.9ppg, 8.1rpg and 1.4apg. Dollard was named at the end of the season USBasket.com All-PBL Forward of the Year and to 1st Team.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Huracanes del Atlantico sign Andre Brown - by Eurobasket Center
Huracanes del Atlantico signed 30-year old American power forward Andre Brown (205-F/C-81, college: De Paul). Brown played most recently at Perth Wildcats (Australia). Brown is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Australia, China, Greece, Italy, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Syria, Turkey and USA. Last year he helped the Wildcats make it to Australian NBL Semifinals.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Evan Brock is a newcomer at Cocolos de San Pedro de Macoris - by Eurobasket Center
Cocolos de San Pedro de Macoris strengthened their roster with addition of 27-year old American forward Evan Brock (204-F-84, college: Alabama). Brock played most recently at Guaiqueries de Margarita (Venezuela). While playing 5 games for Guaiqueries this season he averaged 12.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4spg and 1.4bpg. Brock played also pro basketball in Korea and Venezuela.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Walker Russell is a newcomer at Leones de Santo Domingo - by Eurobasket Center
Leones de Santo Domingo strengthened their roster with addition of 29-year old American guard Walker Russell (183-G-82, college: Jacksonville St.). Russell played most recently at Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (China) where he joined them in Masrch for the end of season. In 4 games he averaged 12.0ppg, 3.0rpg, and 4.0apg. But the most of last season Russell spent at Fort Wayne Mad Ants in American D-League. It was a very successful year when in 37 games his stats were 17.7ppg, 3.2rpg and 7.9apg (3rd best in the league). Russell played also in the D-League All-Star Game and at the end of season was selected to USBasket.com All-D-League 2nd Team. Russell is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Bulgaria, China, Germany, Puerto Rico and Spain.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Leones de Santo Domingo adds VanderMeer to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
Leones de Santo Domingo added to their roster 25-year old American center Scott VanderMeer (213-C-86, college: Ill.-Chicago, agency: Edge Sports). VanderMeer played most recently at Bomberos de Mexicali (Mexico). While playing 16 games for Mexicali this season he averaged 13.2ppg, 9.6rpg and 0.5bpg. He was names to Latinbasket.com All-Mexican CIBACOPA Honorable Mention. The previous season (10-11) VanderMeer spent at Iowa Energy in D-League in the States. He helped them to win championship title, while averaging 6.2ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.6bpg during the regular season and raising it to 13.2ppg, 8.9rpg and 3.1bpg (3rd best in league) during the play-offs.
VanderMeer played also pro basketball in Mexico and Switzerland.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Titanes Del Distrito Nacional adds Gray to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
Titanes Del Distrito Nacional added to their roster 33-year old American guard Chudney Gray (188-G-78, college: St.Johns). Gray played most recently at Duhok (Iraq). In 6 games in Asian Club Championships he averaged 18.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.7apg, and 1.3spg. He joined Duhok after playing in WABA Club Championships for another Iraqi team Al Karkh. In 6 games Gray got 26.8ppg, 5.0rpg and 4.2apg. Gray is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Cyprus, Italy, Jordan, Poland, Qatar, Russia, Syria, Kuwait and Lebanon.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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EGYPT

ESTONIA

U20: Estonia added another massive win in Bosnia - by Eurobasket News
F.Y.R. of Macedonia U20-Estonia U20 76:95

Estonia produced another massive win to prove their ambitions for the top places in Sarajevo. The Baltic side won over F.Y.R. of Macedonia 95:76 in Day 3 of the U20 European Championship.
Both teams scored 12 points before Estonia went on an 8-0 run. They won the first period 25:19 and later Joonas Vaino (204-C/F-92) scored for 30:23. Dikovski reduced to 31:34, while Goran Markovski (193-G-92) kept the difference at 33:36. Estonia immediately erupted with 17-0 run for 51:33 at the halftime and Kaldre scored three to open the third frame at 54:33. Estonia won also the third period 23-19 as Puidet scored for 74:52. F.Y.R. of Macedonia could win the last stanza 24-21 to fell at 0-3 record.
Rain Veideman (192-G-91) top-scored for the winners with 28 points and Rannar Raap (188-G/F-92) notched 16. Janar Soo (195-G/F-91) and Joonas Vaino delivered 13 points each for the win. Goran Markovski ended up with 14 points in defeat, whilst Dzaner Osman (194-F/G-91) and Petrov netted 11 apiece.

F.Y.R. of Macedonia U20: Goran Markovski 14, Dzaner Osman 11, Petrov 11
Estonia U20: Rain Veideman 28, Rannar Raap 16, Janar Soo 13, Joonas Vaino 13

Kaunas saw an easy win of the home side over Estonia - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16-Estonia U16 97:52

Kaunas saw an easy win of the home side over Estonia in the start of the Baltic Cup 2011. Lithuania U16 overcame the guests 97:52 in four-nation campaign.
Lithuania started awesome and reached 14:3 after the first five minutes of the game. They increased to 24:6 at the end of the frame, but Estonia reduced to 33:21 after 15 minutes. Due to 20-16 in the second period Estonia cut to 14 points at the halftime. Lithuania meanwhile added 22-9 and 35-17 in the third and the last quarters respectively. Their biggest lead in the game was 45 points.
Paulius Sakinis (197-F-95) poured in 17 points for the hosts and Gediminas Zalalis netted 16. Paulius Valinskas ended up with 15 and Ricardas Verbickas scored 14. Saimon Sutt (168-G-95) and Sander Kruus netted 11 points each in defeat.

Lithuania U16: Paulius Sakinis 17, Gediminas Zalalis 16, Paulius Valinskas 15, Ricardas Verbickas 14
Estonia U16: Saimon Sutt 11, Sander Kruus 11

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EUROCUP

Massimo Bulleri remain with Benetton - by Eurobasket News
Massimo Bulleri (188-G-77) remain with Benetton for the next season. This is the team where he started his career in 1995-1996. Later he played for Armani MI (Italy), Bologna V.1934 (Italy), CS Bologna (Italy), Mestre (Italy) and Ozzano (Italy).
In 2009-2010 finished his fourth season in a row for Armani Jeans Milano (SerieA) and in Euroleague averaged 8.4ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 71.4%. In Italian League after 39 games his stats read 7.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 85.7%. In 2010-2011 moved to Benetton Treviso (SerieA) and in EuroCup showed 8.2ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 48.8%, FT: 86.5%. In Italian League after 36 games his stats read 6.8ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 75.0%.
In one of the top games last season he collected 15 points and 6 steals at the EuroCup Quarter-Finals Round 2 when Benetton made it look easy as they trounced Goettingen 84:62 to win EuroCup quarterfinals clash. The hosts maintained the lead throughout the second term. They recorded a 45:37 advantage at the interval. The hosts limited Goettingen to only 13 points in the third term and cleared off to a 15-point distance with one quarter to go. Benetton looked calm and confident as they raced to the win in the final period. Massimo Bulleri had 15 points, 6 steals and 5 assists for the winners.

Nikolay Padius joins Lokomotiv Kuban - by Eurobasket News
Lokomotiv Kuban strengthened their roster with addition of Nikolay Padius (197-G-80). The 30-year-old guard was last seen in Unics Kazan. He joined the team in March. His stats read 3.4 points and 1.3 rebounds per game in PBL. Previously Nikolay Padius had stints with Antalya, Marousi, Unics, Dynamo MR, Aris, Varese, CSKA and Spartak Saint Petersburg. Nikolay Padius played for Russian National Team in 1999-2007 seasons.

Spartak Saint Petersburg tab Marcin Gortat - by Eurobasket News
Spartak Saint Petersburg made a strong market move. They have reportedly agreed on terms of contract with Marcin Gortat (213-C-84). The 27-year-old centre has been playing in the NBA since 2007. Last season Marcin Gortat started in the Orlando Magic. He tallied 4.0 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. In December the centre was traded into the Phoenix Suns. There his stats came up to 13.0 points, 9.3 boards and 1.3 blocks per appearance. Before moving to the NBA Marcin Gortat had spells for Koeln and Lodz. Marcin Gortat is the member of Polish National Team. The centre posted 18.0 points, 8.9 rebounds, 2.3 blocks and 1.6 assists per game in 2011 EuroBasket Qualifying Round.

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EUROLEAGUE

Emporio Armani Milano lands Drew Nicholas - by Eurobasket News
A two-time Turkish Airlines Euroleague champion and former Top Scorer Trophy winner switched teams and countries on Saturday as Emporio Armani Milano announced the arrival of shooting guard Drew Nicholas (191-G-81, college: Maryland), last seen raising the continental trophy with Panathinaikos in the spring. Nicholas averaged 9.8 points and 1.7 assists in 20 Euroleague games last season, helping Panathinaikos reach the pinnacle of European competition for the second time in their three seasons together. Nicholas played a pivotal role in this season's Turkish Airlines Euroleague title game against Maccabi Electra with 14 points off the bench. In his three seasons with Panathinaikos, Nicholas helped the team to win three consecutive Greek League titles and lift another Euroleague trophy in 2009. He joined Panathinaikos from Efes Pilsen, averaging 16.5 points and 2.9 assists in 14 Euroleague games in the 2008-09 season. At Benetton in 2005-06, Nicholas won the 2006 Alphonso Ford Top Scorer Trophy, averaging 18.4 points in 20 games. Milano will be his fourth Euroleague team.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Leon Radosevic heads to Armani Jeans - by Eurobasket News
Leon Radosevic (208-C-90) is expected to continue his career in Italy. The 21-year-old centre has reportedly split ways with Cibona Zagreb. His next stop will be Armani Jeans. Leon Radosevic started his career in Cibona. Last season the centre tallied 12.3 points, 5.1 boards and 1.5 steals per game in Adriatic League. In A1 League Leon Radosevic posted 12.9 points, 6.3 boards and 1.2 steals per appearance. Leon Radosevic is the member of Croatian B National Team. The centre was named Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Newcomer of the Year in 2010.

Cibona locks Pavle Marcinkovic until 2014 - by Eurobasket News
Pavle Marcinkovic (197-G-89) is a new member of Cibona Zagreb. The Croatian guard penned a three-year deal with the former champions. Marcinkovic is a product of Zadar, where he played last few years. He had 9.2 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 1.2 apg and 2.3 spg in Croatian league last season. He also added 6 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 1.2 spg for 25 games in Adriatic league. Zadar competed in EuroChallenge last season as well and Marcinkovic collected 7 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1.6 spg for 12 games in this competition. Pavle Marcinkovic played for U20 Croatian NT in 2009. He had 4.4 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 9 games at the European Championships U20 in Rhodos. He also played for U18 Croatia in the past. Pavle Marcinkovic was named Eurobasket.com Croatian A1 League All-Defensive Team -11. He helped Zadar reach the Croatian Cup Finals. In 2008, Marcinkovic won the league title with Zadar, but had very limited playing time that year.

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16

Wales and Malta through into semifinals - by Eurobasket News
Wales U16 - Gibraltar U16 70:20
Wales advanced into U16 European Championship in Division C semifinals. They stunned Gibraltar in the qualifying round yesterday. Daniel Walsh accounted for 18 points and 15 rebounds to lead the effort. Wales will now take on hosting San Marino in the semis. Gibraltar will face Monaco in the clash for the fifth overall position at the tournament.
Wales held their opponents to just two points in the first frame to take a 13:2 lead. Wales maintained the advantage throughout the second stanza. They arrived at halftime up by 22 points 31:9. Wales outscored Gibraltar 21:1 in the third quarter to clear off for good. Joshua Reade accounted for 11 points and 9 rebounds in the victory. George Olid answered with 5 points and 14 boards for Gibraltar.

Wales U16: Daniel Walsh 18+15 boards, Joshua Reade 11, Thomas North 9
Gibraltar U16: George Olid 5+15 boards, Ryan Rodriguez 5, Jake Haefner 5

Malta U16 - Monaco U16 74:45
Malta reached the semifinal stage at U16 European Championship in Division C. They held off Monaco in the Qualifying Round yesterday. Aaron Falzon stepped up with 25 points and 20 rebounds to pace the winners. Malta will take on Andorra tonight. Monaco will face Gibraltar in the battle for the fifth position.
Malta showed their ambitions early on. They shocked Monaco 27:4 in the first frame. Malta controlled the tempo and piled up a 29-point halftime buffer. Monaco slowed their opponents down in the second half but failed to get any closer. Christopher Cordina delivered 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Zane Micallef added 14 points in the win. Alessandro Generale responded with 16 points for Monaco. Daniel Pieper provided 12 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.

Malta U16: Aaron Falzon 25+20 boards, Christopher Cordina 17+10 boards, Zane Micallef 14
Monaco U16: Alessandro Generale 16, Daniel Pieper 12+12 boards

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20

Preliminary round comes to an end in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News

Group A

Serbia - Slovenia 80-102
Slovenia caught the last train into U20 European Championship Qualifying Round. They stunned Serbia tonight to clinch the third position in preliminary round Group A. Marko Pajic (204-F-92) scored 24 points to pace Slovenia. In the meantime Serbia will team up with another European big basketball nations Lithuania and Croatia in the battle against relegation in classification round. The teams traded baskets early in the encounter but Slovenia used a 12:0 run to take a 21:11 lead late in the first period. Slovenia arrived at the first break up by 9 points 23:14. Slovenia maintained the lead throughout the second period. They posted a 46:37 halftime lead. The teams forgot about defence in the high-flying third term. They teamed up for 64 points in the quarter. Serbia got within six points but Slovenia capped the term with a 16:2 rally to build an 84:63 lead with one quarter remaining. Slovenia quickly boosted the margin to 29 points and never looked back en route to the crucial win. Alen Omic (213-C-92) delivered 21 points and 8 rebounds for Slovenia. Edo Muric (202-F-91) added 19 points and 11 rebounds in the victory. Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 26 points for Serbia. Nemanja Jaramaz (201-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) had 18 points in the loss.

Montenegro - Russia 66-68
Russia recorded the second straight win at U20 European Championship. They nipped Montenegro to catch up their opponents in Group A ladder. Both teams ensured the Qualifying Round appearance. Andrey Zubkov (205-G/F-91) and Nikita Balashov (206-F-91) nailed 13 points apiece to pace the winners. Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) knocked down 7 points in the opening quarter to secure Montenegro lead. Pastukhov however capped the frame with three points in a row to narrow the gap at just a single point 17:18. Russia used an 8:1 run midway through the second frame to grab a 27:21 lead. But Montenegro quickly erased the deficit and restored a 35:33 advantage at halftime. The teams traded baskets throughout intense third frame. Montenegro ensured a narrow 55:52 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Andrey Zubkov and Nikita Balashov put Russia in charge 61:60 midway through the fourth period. The teams exchanged points for several minutes before Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) made it 66:65 for the Balkan team with 55 seconds remaining. However Ivan Strebkov penetrated into the paint, converted a layup and got fouled. He followed with an accurate free throw to seal the victory for Russia. Pavel Antipov (203-F-91) produced 9 points in the winning effort. Bojan Dubljevic posted 25 points and 10 rebounds for Montenegro. Nikola Ivanovic and Milutin Dukanovic (190-PG-91) had 12 points each in the loss.

Group B

Sweden - Croatia 70-56
Sweden celebrated the first win at the U20 European Championship in Spain. They shocked Croatia to catch the last train into the Qualifying Round from Group B. Christopher Czerapowicz (200-SF-91) tallied 17 points and 13 rebounds to pace the Scandinavian team. Croatia in the meantime fell into classification round and would try to avoid elimination in the next three games. Croatia and Sweden stayed close throughout the first frame. Croatia posted a 16:14 lead after ten minutes. But Sweden bounced back cutting the deficit. The teams entered the second half all tied at 32. Sweden shifted the gear in the third term. They used a 7:1 run midway through the quarter to take a 41:39 lead. Christopher Czerapowicz knocked down four points late in the quarter as the Scandinavians posted a 52:46 lead with one quarter remaining. Cutura opened the fourth frame with a layup but Sweden answered with 12:2 rally to clear off. Croatia never recovered afterwards as Sweden marched to the victory at the end. Viktor Gaddefors (200-F-92) knocked down 13 points, while Alexander Lindqvist (202-F-91) added 12 points and 9 rebounds for Sweden. Boris Barac (206-F-92) answered with 14 points for Croatia. Ivan Mikulic (194-G-91) finished with 12 points in the loss.

France - Latvia 79-46
France registered the third win in a row at U20 European Championship. They thumped Latvia to improve at 3-0 record in Group B. Latvia finished in the third position in the pool qualifying into the next round of action. Evan Fournier (200-G/F-92) topscored with 23 points for Les Bleus. Evan Fournier unloaded 15 points in the opening quarter to ensure good start for France. Les Bleus grabbed a 24:12 lead at the first break. France opened the second period with back-to-back three-pointers to set the tone. Latvia scored just three points in the period as France established a 38:15 halftime lead. Les Bleus maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final intermission up by 32 points 59:27. Latvia increased the tempo in the fourth quarter but France easily matched the effort and cruised to the victory at the end. Joffrey Lauvergne (210-F-91) nailed 14 points in the winning effort. Martins Meiers (206-C-91) answered with 13 points for Latvia. Edmunds Dukulis (204-C-92, agency: Players Group) had 11 points in the loss.

Group C

Austria - Spain 47-120
Spain eased to the third straight win at U20 European Championship. The hosts trounced Austrian counterparts to finish with a perfect 3-0 record in Group C. Austria on the other hand suffered the third loss in a row and stayed at the bottom of the ladder. Spain led from start to finish. The hosts erupted for 27 points in the opening frame to build a 15-point lead. Spain unloaded 38 points in the second period to aggravate the damage. They established a 65:22 halftime lead. Spain refused to slow down after the big break. They went on a full steam in the third quarter scoring 31 points and building an unassailable 96:37 lead with one quarter remaining. Spain just cruised on in the fourth term and celebrated yet another impressive win at the end. Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) tallied 28 points and 7 rebounds in just 16 minutes on the court. Alberto Jodar (204-F/C-91) contributed 18 points for the winners. Carlos Novas (197-F-92) answered with 12 points for Austria. Anton Maresch (192-G-91) had 11 points in defeat.

Turkey - Greece 63-78
Greece registered the second win at the U20 European Championship. They rallied past Turkey to finish in the second place in Group C. Turkey also advanced into Qualifying Round despite the loss. They claimed the third position in the ladder. Dimitrios Katsivelis (194-G-91) stepped up with 23 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists to pace the Hellenes. Greece stunned Turkey in the first frame. They went on a massive 27:8 run in the opening seven minutes. Greece posted a 29:14 lead ten minutes into the encounter. But Turkey struck back as they tipped off the second period with 12 points in a row. Greece reacted with a 10:0 run of their own. They quickly boosted the margin to 17 points. Dimitrios Katsivelis gave the Hellenes a 20-point lead midway through the third frame. Turkey stayed hopeful as they managed to narrow the deficit at 12 points with one quarter remaining 50:62. But Greece gave little chance for their opponents in the fourth stanza and rolled to a confident win at the end. Spyridon Motsenigos (194-G/F-92) nailed 12 points for Greece. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (206-F-92) added 11 points, 6 boards and 6 assists in the victory. Furkan Aldemir (207-F-91) replied with 19 points and 17 rebounds for Turkey. Sertac Sanli (212-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) finished with 10 points in the loss.

Group D

Ukraine - Italy 54-70
Italy recorded the second consecutive win at the U20 European Championship in Spain. They rallied past Ukraine to improve at 2-1 record in Group D. The victory thus guaranteed the Qualifying Round birth for the Azzurri. Achille Polonara (202-F-91) knocked down 15 points to pace the winners. Ukraine will await the result of Lithuania vs. Germany clash to get to know their fate. Andrea De Nicolao (185-G-91) sparked a 9:0 run from the Azzurri late in the first period to take a 16:11 lead. Achille Polonara came up with 6 points in the second period as Italy maintained the advantage. Moreover they established a 33:23 halftime lead. Italy went on a 12:0 rally in the third term as the margin grew at 22-point mark 48:26. Italy entered the fourth quarter up by 22 points 52:30. Achille Polonara and Cervi boosted the gap to 25 points early in the fourth frame before Ukraine showed some character. Mishula, Sandul and Andriy Lebedintsev (187-PG-91) cut the deficit at 16-point mark at the end. Nicolo Melli (205-F-91) nailed 12 points, while Andrea De Nicolao added 10 in the victory. Andriy Lebedintsev answered with 14 points for Ukraine. Pavlo Krutous (195-G/F-92) had 8 points in the loss.

Lithuania - Germany 74-88
Germany wrapped up U20 European Championship preliminary round with victory. They knocked down Lithuania to clinch the second place in Group D. Lithuania in the meantime suffered the second loss and would battle against relegation in classification round now. Niels Giffey (200-G/F-91) paced well-balanced effort from Germany with 16 points. Augustas Peciukevicius (191-G-91) unloaded 11 points in the first period to keep Lithuania in charge. The Baltic team erupted for 31 points to build a 5-point lead. But Ole Wendt (190-G-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) and Barthel quickly erased the deficit in the second frame. The teams traded baskets before Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) made it 45:44 for Lithuania at halftime. Germany opened the second half on a 6:0 run to surge ahead. Lithuania managed just seven points in the third term to face a 9-point deficit before the fourth quarter. Germany tipped off the fourth quarter with a 7:2 run to take a 14-point lead. Kulvietis and Augustas Peciukevicius gave Lithuania hope as they dragged the team within 6 points with just over two minutes remaining. But Theis, Klein and Ole Wendt converted a bunch of free throws late in regulation to seal the victory for Germany. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F/G-92) and Ole Wendt produced 15 points each for Germany. Augustas Peciukevicius produced 18 points, 6 boards and 6 assists for Lithuania. Dovydas Redikas added 13 points in the loss.

Results and Stats from Day 3 in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News

Group A

FYR Macedonia - Estonia 76-95
Estonia produced another massive win to prove their ambitions for the top places in Sarajevo. The Baltic side won over F.Y.R. of Macedonia 95:76 in Day 3 of the U20 European Championship. Both teams scored 12 points before Estonia went on an 8-0 run. They won the first period 25:19 and later Joonas Vaino (204-C/F-92) scored for 30:23. Dikovski reduced to 31:34, while Markovski kept the difference at 33:36. Estonia immediately erupted with 17-0 run for 51:33 at the halftime and Kaldre scored three to open the third frame at 54:33. Estonia won also the third period 23-19 as Jaan Puidet (192-G/F-92) scored for 74:52. F.Y.R. of Macedonia could win the last stanza 24-21 to fell at 0-3 record. Rain Veideman (192-G-91) top-scored for the winners with 28 points and Raap notched 16. Soo and Joonas Vaino delivered 13 points each for the win. Markovski ended up with 14 points in defeat, whilst Osman and Petrov netted 11 apiece.

Georgia - Poland 76-69
Georgia recorded the third win in Division B at the European Championship. They edged Poland 78:69 to remain undefeated in Bosnia. Both teams started strong, while Shengelia scored three for 10:2. Akaki Dvalishvili (206-C/F-90) and Szymanski exchanged for 17:8 and Kwiatkowski closed the period at 27:17. Bokolishvili opened the second frame for 29:17 and Bokolishvili later scored for 37:24. Sanadze nailed another three for 48:32 as Georgia enjoyed the halftime advantage. Poland did not give up and reduced to 59:55 after three quarters. Akaki Dvalishvili scored for 65:57 and Shengelia netted two for 70:59. Marek Szumelda-Krzycki (193-PG-91) reduced to 73:65 with 2 minutes to go but Shengelia brought 77:67. Zyskowski and Chikviladze exchanged the free throws for the final result. Shengelia stepped up with 28 points and 12 rebounds, while Sanadze notched 13. Chikviladze and Akaki Dvalishvili followed them with 12 points each. Parzenski delivered 16 and Szymanski scored 13.

Switzerland U20-Romania U20 47-53

The game between Switzerland U20 and Romania U20 was the last in Day 3 in Sarajevo. Romania needed a 14-0 run to win the defensive thriller 53:47.
Romania opened the game with 4-0 Bogdan Tibirna (210-C-91) scored for 8:5. The Swiss side produced a massive push in the end of the frame as Herrmann closed the quarter at 14:8. Aurelian Toth (210-C-92) reduced to 28:20 and Nuna brought Romanian side to 30:25. Dario Koludrovic (194-F-92) however nailed two threes in a row for 11-point advantage. Later Switzerland saw a nightmare in the court. Romania reduced to 36:31 after three quarters and then took the lead at 39:36 finishing 14-0 run. Jaunin nailed two free throws for 39:38 as he broke the silence for Switzerland. He went on the free throw line again to scored for 43:41 with a minute to go, while Milencovici brought 45:41 on the board. Dario Koludrovic nailed three to cut the deficit to the minimum and Telinoiu as well as Corpodean and Milencovici were perfect from the free throw line to bring another victory for Romania.
Aurelian Toth top-scored for the winners with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Bogdan Tibirna netted 15. Dario Koludrovic notched 15 points in defeat and Jonathan Dubas (201-F/C-91) had 8 points and 12 rebounds.

Switzerland U20: Dario Koludrovic 15, Jonathan Dubas 8+12 rebs
Romania U20: Aurelian Toth 18+10 rebs, Bogdan Tibirna 15

Group B

Holland - Bulgaria 68-73
Bulgaria U20 celebrated their first victory at the European Championship in Division B. After the loss in the opener, the team edged Netherlands U20 73:68 for 1-1 record. The Dutch team meanwhile dropped to 1-2 record. Max Van Schaik (208-F-91) gave his side 14:11 in the middle of the first period, but Bulgaria closed the frame with 7-0 run as Stanislav Tsonkov (192-G-91) closed the period at 18:14. Hristov nailed three for 31:25 and Williams was the last to post at the half for 31:35. No matter how close the Dutch team tried to come, Bulgaria was in front for the whole time finishing the third period at 55:51. Brandt however tied the game at 60:60 and Max Van Schaik brought 67:67, but Bulgaria won the game. Stanislav Tsonkov and Hristov scored the last points for the winners to set up the final result. Koev chipped in 16 points and Hristov as well as Stanislav Tsonkov posted 14. Francis followed them with 13 points in a win. Dimeo Van Der Horst replied with 16 points in defeat, whilst Max Van Schaik and Treffers notched 12 apiece.

Slovakia - Hungary 81-63
Richard Grznar (189-PG-91) leads Slovak Republic to the second straight win in Division B at the European Championship. He erupted with 38 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists as his team won 81:63. Hungary meanwhile dropped to 0-3 record. Trailing 11-15 after the first 10 minutes, Hungary finished the first quarter with 12-0 run as it also continued in the start of the second for 23:15. Richard Grznar meanwhile tied the game at 25:25 and Fulka scored for 38:33. Slovak Republic won the third period 20-15 and finished the game with 23-13 in the last frame. Jaroslav Moravek (200-F/C-92) collected 11 points and 12 rebounds for the winners and Mrvis scored 10. Janos Eilingsfeld (198-F/C-91, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) erupted with 33 points and 16 rebounds in defeat, while Madar netted 11. Slovak Republic had a better percentage from the filed including three pointers (40% versus 21%). Hungary meanwhile shot better from the free throw line, 76% versus 55%.

Group C

Luxembourg - United Kingdom 56-85
Richards paced Standard Life GB to the initial win in Sarajevo. The team from Great Britain won over Luxembourg 85:56 as the leader scored 20 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. It was not sweet start for the British team that trailed 4:6 in the opening tip. Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) nailed three for 15:13 and Richards closed the first period at 18:17. Only in the second frame the favorites managed to prove their ambitions. They erupted with 24-9 for 42:26 at the halftime. Rene Wolzfeld (190-F-91) opened the third frame from the perimeter and Kuhlmann reduced to 47:39. Melcher was the last to score in the third period, but the board showed 63:43 and it was clear about the winner. Great Britain added 22-13 in the last frame to seal the initial victory. Alex Marcotullio and Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) nailed 15 points each, while Fraser netted 12. Max Schmit delivered 20 in defeat, while Rene Wolzfeld notched 13.

Finland - Portugal 50-57
Portugal beat Finland to tie both records at 2-1 at U20 European Championship. Portugal needed 57:50 win in Division B in Sarajevo. Finland entered the game undefeated and started with 5-0 run. Nikkarinen made two free throws for 11:2 and Lindbom made a dunk for 22:11 at the end of the first period. The second frame was a nightmare for the Finnish side that scored only 2 points. Portugal scored 7 and reduced to 24:18 at the halftime. Another 18-11 in the third period brought 1-point advantage for Portugal. Miguel Queiroz (202-C/F-91) drove a lay-up for 36:35 after thirty minutes and Cardoso increased to 40:35. Joao Torrie (200-C/F-91) scored the last points for the winners, while Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) made the final score in the game. Miguel Queiroz top-scored for the winners with 14 points and 14 caroms, while Ferreirinho netted 11 and Azevedo scored 10. Lindbom ended up with 18 points and 13 rebounds in their first loss. Villematti Kopio and Heinonen delivered 8 points each for the Scandinavian team.

Norway - Czech Republic 65-85
Czech Republic U20 conquer Group C with the perfect 3-0 record. The team edged Norway U20 85:65 in the first game of Day 3 in Division B of the European Championship. Peterka gave the Czechs 10-2 lead and Vaclav Honomichl (190-G-92) brought 14:9. Norway tried to reduce a bit, but failed at the end of the second period and Karamo Jawara (200-F-91) could only close the half at 39:27. Czech Republic also added 23-21 in the third frame as Halada scored for 62:48 and then increased to 20 points after the win in the last frame. Ladislav Pecka (197-F-91) opened the last period with a jump shot and after 23-17 in it, Riha and Kanu exchanged threes for the final result. Ladislav Pecka scored 19 points to lead all the winners. Vyoral and Peterka followed them with 14 each, while Balvin netted 11. Karamo Jawara finished the game with 15 points for Norway, while McCarthy, Ndiaye and Lundestad added 10 apiece.

Group D

Belgium - Israel 78-57
Belgium improved to 3-0 record at the U20 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Israel 78:57 as the latter suffered their first loss. Belgium won the opening tip 7:2 and Terry Deroover (180-G-91) nailed three for 14:5. Israel however shot few threes and Havkin closed the period at 16:14. Ojomoh made two free throws at 28:20 and Schwartz scored from the perimeter for 33:21. Jonathan Sztarkman (188-PG-91) sent the squads to the lockers for 33:24. In the third period Belgium produced 23-16 as Terry Deroover brought 56:36 and after Tishman closed the frame at 56:40. In the last quarter Belgium controlled the court and did not allow the opponents to reduce the gap. Terry Deroover poured in 18 points and Rademakers added 16 points and 12 boards. Gillet collected 13 points and 12 rebounds, whilst Donkor notched 12. Jonathan Sztarkman answered with 12 points for Israel and Tishman netted 11.

Belarus - Bosnia 67-79
Bosnia and Herzegovina edged Belarus in Sarajevo in Day 3 of the European Championship. The hosts needed 79:67 for 2-1 record in Group D. Belarus still remains without victories after two games. Belarus surprised the hosts in the start of the game and Viktar Ausepian (205-F-91) scored for 11:4. Ihnatchyk closed the first period at 18:8 and he brought 20:13 in the start of the second. Bosnia however bounced back later in the frame and Ivic scored for 25:24. The hoists erupted with 34-16 in the second period for 42:34 at the halftime. They added 25-12 in the third quarter and enjoyed 67:46 after three quarters. Belarus could not score for the first three minutes in the last period, but managed to win the stanza 21-12. Ivic paced all the winners with 23 points, while Begagic added 17. Miralem Halilovic (206-F-91) produced 16 and Gajic had 11 points and 10 boards.

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FINLAND

FRANCE

U20: France stamp Latvia to stay perfect in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
France U20 - Latvia U20 79:46

France registered the third win in a row at U20 European Championship. They thumped Latvia to improve at 3-0 record in Group B. Latvia finished in the third position in the pool qualifying into the next round of action. Evan Fournier (200-G/F-92) topscored with 23 points for Les Bleus.
Evan Fournier unloaded 15 points in the opening quarter to ensure good start for France. Les Bleus grabbed a 24:12 lead at the first break. France opened the second period with back-to-back three-pointers to set the tone. Latvia scored just three points in the period as France established a 38:15 halftime lead. Les Bleus maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final intermission up by 32 points 59:27. Latvia increased the tempo in the fourth quarter but France easily matched the effort and cruised to the victory at the end. Joffrey Lauvergne (210-F-91) nailed 14 points in the winning effort. Martins Meiers (206-C-91) answered with 13 points for Latvia. Edmunds Dukulis (204-C-92, agency: Players Group) had 11 points in the loss.

France U20: Evan Fournier 23, Joffrey Lauvergne 14, Kevin Mendy (200-G/F-92) 9
Latvia U20: Martins Meiers 13, Edmunds Dukulis 11

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FYR MACEDONIA

GEORGIA

U20: Georgia recorded the third win in Division B - by Eurobasket News
Georgia U20-Poland U20 76:69

Georgia recorded the third win in Division B at the European Championship. They edged Poland 76:69 to remain undefeated in Bosnia.
Both teams started strong, while Tornike Shengelia (207-G/F-91) scored three for 10:2. Akaki Dvalishvili (206-C/F-90) and Sebastian Szymanski (186-G-91) exchanged for 17:8 and Kwiatkowski closed the period at 27:17. Bokolishvili opened the second frame for 29:17 and Bokolishvili later scored for 37:24. Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) nailed another three for 48:32 as Georgia enjoyed the halftime advantage. Poland did not give up and reduced to 59:55 after three quarters. Akaki Dvalishvili scored for 65:57 and Tornike Shengelia netted two for 70:59. Szumelda-Krzycki reduced to 73:65 with 2 minutes to go but Tornike Shengelia brought 75:67. Zyskowski and Beqa Chikviladze (195-G-91) exchanged the free throws for the final result.
Tornike Shengelia stepped up with 28 points and 12 rebounds, while Duda Sanadze notched 13. Beqa Chikviladze and Akaki Dvalishvili followed them with 12 points each. Jakub Parzenski (209-F/C-91) delivered 16 and Sebastian Szymanski scored 13.

Georgia U20: Tornike Shengelia 28+12 rebs, Duda Sanadze 13, Beqa Chikviladze 12, Akaki Dvalishvili 12
Poland U20: Jakub Parzenski 16, Sebastian Szymanski 13

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GERMANY

GREECE

HOLLAND

U20: Bulgaria celebrated their first 2011 victory in Division B - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands U20-Bulgaria U20 68:73

Bulgaria U20 celebrated their first victory at the European Championship in Division B. After the loss in the opener, the team edged Netherlands U20 73:68 for 1-1 record. The Dutch team meanwhile dropped to 1-2 record.
Max Van Schaik (208-F-91) gave his side 14:11 in the middle of the first period, but Bulgaria closed the frame with 7-0 run as Stanislav Tsonkov (192-G-91) closed the period at 18:14. Plamen Hristov (197-F/G-91) nailed three for 31:25 and Williams was the last to post at the half for 31:35. No matter how close the Dutch team tried to come, Bulgaria was in front for the whole time finishing the third period at 55:51. Brandt however tied the game at 60:60 and Max Van Schaik brought 67:67, but Bulgaria won the game. Stanislav Tsonkov and Plamen Hristov scored the last points for the winners to set up the final result.
Konstantin Koev (195-F-91) chipped in 16 points and Plamen Hristov as well as Stanislav Tsonkov posted 14. Francis followed them with 13 points in a win. Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) replied with 16 points in defeat, whilst Max Van Schaik and Quincy Treffers (202-F-91) notched 12 apiece.

Netherlands U20: Dimeo Van Der Horst 16, Max Van Schaik 12, Quincy Treffers 12
Bulgaria U20: Konstantin Koev 16, Plamen Hristov 14, Stanislav Tsonkov 14, Francis 13

Lasaulec Aris inks shooting guard Tjoe de Paula - by Fred Roggen
Lasaulec Aris signed former Dutch NT-player shooting guard Tjoe de Paula (185-G-81, agency: Court Side) to a one-year contract, the team announced Friday. Tjoe de Paula arrives from De Hoppers of the Dutch promotie-divisie. The experienced shooting guard has played 8 years in the Eredivisie, and came out for Groningen, Almere and Den Helder.
In 2008-2009, he played his last season in the Dutch Eredivisie for Bluestream Seals Den Helder and averaged 13.1 points and 2.6 assists.

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HUNGARY

U20: Grznar leads Slovak Republic to the second straight win - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Republic U20-Hungary U20 81:63

Richard Grznar (189-PG-91) leads Slovak Republic to the second straight win in Division B at the European Championship. He erupted with 38 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists as his team won 81:63. Hungary meanwhile dropped to 0-3 record.
Trailing 11-15 after the first 10 minutes, Hungary finished the first quarter with 12-0 run as it also continued in the start of the second for 23:15. Richard Grznar meanwhile tied the game at 25:25 and Fulka scored for 38:33. Slovak Republic won the third period 20-15 and finished the game with 23-13 in the last frame.
Jaroslav Moravek (200-F/C-92) collected 11 points and 12 rebounds for the winners and Tomas Mrvis (194-G/F-91) scored 10. Janos Eilingsfeld (198-F/C-91, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) erupted with 33 points and 16 rebounds in defeat, while Andras Madar (191-G-91, agency: TSS Management) netted 11.

Slovak Republic had a better percentage from the filed including three pointers (40% versus 21%). Hungary meanwhile shot better from the free throw line, 76% versus 55%.

Slovak Republic U20: Richard Grznar 38+9 rebs+6ast, Jaroslav Moravek 11+12 rebs, Tomas Mrvis 10
Hungary U20: Janos Eilingsfeld 33+16 rebs, Andras Madar 11

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INDIA

India edge Sri Lanka to claim title in New Delhi - by Eurobasket News
India - Sri Lanka 89:35

India celebrated victory at SAARC Division qualifiers of the Middle Asia Qualifying Round for the 26th Fiba Asia Championship. They stormed past Sri Lanka in New Delhi to book the ticket into the Fiba Asia Championship in Wuhan. Hareesh Koroth (185-G-84) knocked down 12 points to pace the winners.
India left no chance for Sri Lanka right from the start. They outscored their opponents 25:2 in the opening frame. India did not loosen the grip in the second period. They boosted the margin to 40 points at the interval 51:11. India maintained the lead easily after the big break. They headed into fourth frame up by 52 points and killed off Sri Lanka in the final period. Vishesh Bhriguvanshi (192-G-91) nailed 11 points for the winners. Amjyot Singh (203-C-92), Pal Singh and Trideep Rai (190-F-83) contributed 10 points each for the hosts. Praneeth answered with 17 points for Sri Lanka.

India: Hareesh Koroth 12, Vishesh Bhriguvanshi 11, Amjyot Singh 10, Pal Singh 10, Trideep Rai 10
Sri Lanka: Praneeth 17

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IRELAND

Scannell set for Neptune - by Eurobasket
Mark Scannell has ended his long as sociation with Glanmire Basketball Club to take up the position as Head Coach of Mens SuperLeague outfit Neptune.
The vastly experienced coach takes the helm at the Neptune Stadium following Pat Price's decision to opt for a return to coaching in his native USA.
Scannell enjoyed an incredible trophy haul during his time at the famous Cork women's club, claiming a record total of 17 national titles. Some of his highlights in recent years include Glanmire's SuperLeague club, Team Montenotte Hotel Cork, claiming two consecutive doubles (SuperLeague & National Cup) in 2008 and 2009.
His record at national league level saw him appointed as the Head Coach of the Irish Senior Women's side in 2008. It almost proved to be another glorious chapter in his coaching career as Ireland just missed out on qualification to the top tier of European basketball.
'It was a very difficult decision to leave Glanmire,' said Scannell. 'It was an unforgettable journey and I would like to thank everyone at the club for their support. I was very lucky to coach a wonderful bunch of players and they deserve all the credit for the success we enjoyed. It is the right time for me to move and take on the challenge of a club like Neptune.
'Neptune is the biggest club in the country and I believe they should be challenging for the major honours each year,' added Scannell. 'Pat (Price) did a great job getting them to the league final last season and hopefully we can build on that progress. They have an excellent structure in place at the club and I'm relishing getting started.'

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ISRAEL

U20: Belgium is on top of Group D, Israel fell at 1-1 - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U20-Israel U20 78:57

Belgium improved to 3-0 record at the U20 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Israel 78:57 as the latter suffered their first loss.
Belgium won the opening tip 7:2 and Terry Deroover (180-G-91) nailed three for 14:5. Israel however shot few threes and Havkin closed the period at 16:14. Ojomoh made two free throws at 28:20 and Schwartz scored from the perimeter for 33:21. Jonathan Sztarkman (188-PG-91) sent the squads to the lockers for 33:24. In the third period Belgium produced 23-16 as Terry Deroover brought 56:36 and after Nimrod Tishman (196-PG-91) closed the frame at 56:40. In the last quarter Belgium controlled the court and did not allow the opponents to reduce the gap.
Terry Deroover poured in 18 points and Maarten Rademakers (205-C/F-91) added 16 points and 12 boards. Pierre-Antoine Gillet (202-F-91) collected 13 points and 12 rebounds, whilst Dennis Donkor (194-G/F-91) notched 12. Jonathan Sztarkman answered with 12 points for Israel and Nimrod Tishman netted 11.

Belgium U20: Terry Deroover 18, Maarten Rademakers 16+12 rebs, Pierre-Antoine Gillet 13+12 rebs, Dennis Donkor 12
Israel U20: Jonathan Sztarkman 12, Nimrod Tishman 11

Dexia Mons strengthen front court line adding Warren Carter - by David Pick
Exclusive: 'Eurobasket' recently learned that after a satisfying and enjoyable season in Israel playing in the same league against his younger brother Josh, Warren Carter decided to take his talents to Belgium where he signed a two-year-deal with Dexia Mons, coached by the Israeli National Head Coach, Arik Shivek.

Carter played a superb personal season with Israel's runner-up Hapoel Galil/Gilboa, averaging 11.6ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg and 1.1spg during the regular season. In the team's EuroCup challenge, the 26-year-old recorded averages of 13.0ppg (62.2%), 6.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0bpg, in six games.

'I've been following Warren for a while now,' Shivek told 'Eurobasket'. 'After seeing him play several times in the Israeli league this past season, I knew that he would fit our team's style of play as well as Mons' game plan. There's no doubt in my mind that he is a great addition and will strengthen our front court line.'

The talented Illinois graduate is known for his impressive athletic ability and offensive rebounding presence as well as his sweet mid-range stroke and long wingspan that make him a promising offensive and defensive player.

Mons recently finished last season in third place with a 21-11 record winning their second Belgian State-Cup title in team history and reaching the domestic league semi-finals playoff round.

Yotam Halperin will not join, Marko Popovic to Maccabi? - by David Pick
Maccabi Tel Aviv officially announced this evening that Israeli Guard Yotam Halperin will NOT join the team next season. Halperin has been playing for the past three seasons in Greece for the red-and-white Olympiakos empire and hoped to return to Tel Aviv this year. However, Halperin was requested to pay tax duties to the state that added up to $800,000, an amount nor him or the team were willing to pay.

Halperin recently asked the team if he could be released due to the unexpected outcome after the two sides reached a financial agreement three weeks ago. Halperin will stay in Israel this summer where he will help the NT in its 2011 EuroBasket campaign. When the tournament comes to an end, the guard will return to Europe as Olympaikos have already showed interest in resigning him for the 2011/12 season.

Earlier Today

In light of rumors across the European basketball world that Maccabi Tel Aviv is interested in acquiring the Croatian point guard, Marko Popovic for next season, a high source with information from Maccabi's coaching staff vetoed the rumors completely, telling 'Eurobasket', 'Marco is not now nor has he ever been a candidate to join Maccabi.'

Even though Popovic expressed great interest in playing for Maccabi saying, 'It's my biggest dream', another fact that strengthens the possibility that he will not play in Israel next season is his extremely high paid salary. Popovic earned a whopping 900,000 Euros for three years while playing in Russia and it is no secret that numbers like those, Maccabi are not eager to pay.

Only a few days ago Popovic turned down an offer to renew his contract with Unics Kazan where he has been playing for the past three years averaging 11.6ppg, 1.5rpg and 3.9apg in the Russian league and 13.8ppg, 2.6rpg and 5.8apg in the EuroCup during last season.

Additional reports today show that the 29-year-old guard is scouted by Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid and Caja Laboral Vitoria.

'Eurobasket Exclusive': Will Solomon to play in Russia - by David Pick
'Eurobasket Exclusive': After verbally agreeing to join Germany's Alba Berlin, American combo guard Will Solomon, made a U-turn regarding his decision and is certain to join Spartak St.Petersburg, according to sources with knowledge of the decision.

Solomon was eyed by clubs in Germany and Turkey, yet, he is determined to take his talents to the Russian empire that has been scouting him for some time and has presented the guard with a substantial increased offer than that of Alba's. Solomon who is known to be a Jerusalem fan favorite and one of the organizations all time biggest superstars, expressed his interest and wishes on staying with the team, however, differences among the coaching staff vetoed the guard's hopes of a back-to-back stretch.

The 32-year-old former Clemson standout spent the previous year playing in Israel for Hapoel Jerusalem where he averaged 14.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.6 steals per game, leading his team to the Israeli Final-Four. In the Eurocup competition, Solomon improved his playing performances and numbers recording averages of 18.0 points, 4.5 boards and 1.8 steals per game.

St.Petersburg recently finished the Russian domestic league in fifth place with a 17-10 record, losing in the quarter final round of the local playoffs to Khimky. In their EuroCup challenge, St.Petersburg took first place (5-1) in both groups of the first round and the Top16 but fell to Lokomotic 64-74 in the Semifinals, and lost to Oostende (BEL) 92-94, in OT for third Place.

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ITALY

U20: Italy advance into Qualifying Round with win over Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Italy U20 - Ukraine U20 70:54

Italy recorded the second consecutive win at the U20 European Championship in Spain. They rallied past Ukraine to improve at 2-1 record in Group D. The victory thus guaranteed the Qualifying Round birth for the Azzurri. Achille Polonara (202-F-91) knocked down 15 points to pace the winners. Ukraine will await the result of Lithuania vs. Germany clash to get to know their fate.
Andrea De Nicolao (185-G-91) sparked a 9:0 run from the Azzurri late in the first period to take a 16:11 lead. Achille Polonara came up with 6 points in the second period as Italy maintained the advantage. Moreover they established a 33:23 halftime lead. Italy went on a 12:0 rally in the third term as the margin grew at 22-point mark 48:26. Italy entered the fourth quarter up by 22 points 52:30. Achille Polonara and Cervi boosted the gap to 25 points early in the fourth frame before Ukraine showed some character. Mishula, Sandul and Andriy Lebedintsev (187-PG-91) cut the deficit at 16-point mark at the end. Nicolo Melli (205-F-91) nailed 12 points, while Andrea De Nicolao added 10 in the victory. Andriy Lebedintsev answered with 14 points for Ukraine. Pavlo Krutous (195-G/F-92) had 8 points in the loss.

Italy U20: Achille Polonara 15, Nicolo Melli 12, Andrea De Nicolao 10
Ukraine U20: Andriy Lebedintsev 14, Pavlo Krutous 8

Brescia add Deividas Busma - by Eurobasket News
Brescia bolstered their frontcourt. LegaDue newcomers signed contract with Deividas Busma (213-C-87). It is the first pro contract for the Lithuanian centre. Deividas Busma has just graduated from Idaho State University. He tallied 11.8 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game in his senior season. Deividas Busma earned All-Big Sky Conference Honourable Mention.

Emporio Armani Milano lands Drew Nicholas - by Eurobasket News
A two-time Turkish Airlines Euroleague champion and former Top Scorer Trophy winner switched teams and countries on Saturday as Emporio Armani Milano announced the arrival of shooting guard Drew Nicholas (191-G-81, college: Maryland), last seen raising the continental trophy with Panathinaikos in the spring. Nicholas averaged 9.8 points and 1.7 assists in 20 Euroleague games last season, helping Panathinaikos reach the pinnacle of European competition for the second time in their three seasons together. Nicholas played a pivotal role in this season's Turkish Airlines Euroleague title game against Maccabi Electra with 14 points off the bench. In his three seasons with Panathinaikos, Nicholas helped the team to win three consecutive Greek League titles and lift another Euroleague trophy in 2009. He joined Panathinaikos from Efes Pilsen, averaging 16.5 points and 2.9 assists in 14 Euroleague games in the 2008-09 season. At Benetton in 2005-06, Nicholas won the 2006 Alphonso Ford Top Scorer Trophy, averaging 18.4 points in 20 games. Milano will be his fourth Euroleague team.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Leon Radosevic heads to Armani Jeans - by Eurobasket News
Leon Radosevic (208-C-90) is expected to continue his career in Italy. The 21-year-old centre has reportedly split ways with Cibona Zagreb. His next stop will be Armani Jeans. Leon Radosevic started his career in Cibona. Last season the centre tallied 12.3 points, 5.1 boards and 1.5 steals per game in Adriatic League. In A1 League Leon Radosevic posted 12.9 points, 6.3 boards and 1.2 steals per appearance. Leon Radosevic is the member of Croatian B National Team. The centre was named Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Newcomer of the Year in 2010.

Massimo Bulleri remain with Benetton - by Eurobasket News
Massimo Bulleri (188-G-77) remain with Benetton for the next season. This is the team where he started his career in 1995-1996. Later he played for Armani MI (Italy), Bologna V.1934 (Italy), CS Bologna (Italy), Mestre (Italy) and Ozzano (Italy).
In 2009-2010 finished his fourth season in a row for Armani Jeans Milano (SerieA) and in Euroleague averaged 8.4ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 71.4%. In Italian League after 39 games his stats read 7.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 85.7%. In 2010-2011 moved to Benetton Treviso (SerieA) and in EuroCup showed 8.2ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 48.8%, FT: 86.5%. In Italian League after 36 games his stats read 6.8ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 75.0%.
In one of the top games last season he collected 15 points and 6 steals at the EuroCup Quarter-Finals Round 2 when Benetton made it look easy as they trounced Goettingen 84:62 to win EuroCup quarterfinals clash. The hosts maintained the lead throughout the second term. They recorded a 45:37 advantage at the interval. The hosts limited Goettingen to only 13 points in the third term and cleared off to a 15-point distance with one quarter to go. Benetton looked calm and confident as they raced to the win in the final period. Massimo Bulleri had 15 points, 6 steals and 5 assists for the winners.

Tommaso Fantoni moves from Casale to Venezia - by Eurobasket News
Tommaso Fantoni (203-F-85, agency: Players Group) is no longer a member of Fastweb Casale. The Italian forward left the team and will join Umana Reyer Venezia. Fantoni parted ways with Casale after three years. He played 40 games for them last season in LegaDue averaging 11.8 points and 6.1 rebounds. Fantoni helped Casale to win the Lega2 title. They edged Venezia in the Finals. In 2009/10, he shined with 15 ppg and 6.4 rpg. Eurobasket awarded Fantoni with All-Italian Lega2 Honorable Mention -09, 11. He was also named Eurobasket.com Italian Lega2 All-Domestic Players Team -08, 10, 11. Before Casale, Tommaso Fantoni split 2007/08 season between Benetton Treviso and Livorno. He also spent few years in the past with Livorno.

Teramo returns Valerio Amoroso - by Eurobasket News
Valerio Amoroso (202-F-80) is back to Banca Tercas Teramo after one year. The Italian forward spent last season with Canadian Solar Bologna. He appeared 27 times in SerieA averaging 8.2 points, 46 rebounds and 1.1 assists. Amoroso was a member of Teramo from 2008 to 2010. In their first season together he had 10.5 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 1.8 apg. In 2009/10, Amoroso added 12.2 ppg and 4.7 rpg. He also registered 12.7 ppg, 4 rpg and 1.7 apg for 6 EuroCup games. Before Teramo, Valerio Amoroso spent two years with Montegranaro. He also has experience from Scafati and Roseto. Amoros averaged 7.9 points and 5.9 rebounds for the Italian NT in Qualifications to European Championships 2009.

Sutor Montegranaro brings in Fabio Di Bella - by Eurobasket News
Fabio Di Bella (187-G-78) is a new member of Sutor Montegranaro. The Italian point guard penned a two-year deal with his new team. Di Bella heads to Montegranaro from Pepsi Caserta, where he spent last three years. He played 29 games in SerieA last season colleting 12.6 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 2 apg and 2.2 spg. He also added 11.6 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 1.8 apg for 13 EuroCup games. In 2009/10, Di Bella had 13.1 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 2.2 spg for 38 games in SerieA. Fabio Di Bella joined Caserta in 2008 from La Fortezza Bologna. Before that, he spent few years with Biella and Pavia. Fabio Di Bella played for the Italian National Team in 2002, 2006 and 2007. He had 7.8 ppg, 4.2 rpg and 2.2 apg for 6 games at the World Championship in Japan.

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JORDAN

Ukraine edge Jordan in Mogilev - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine - Jordan 81:80

Ukraine (University National Team) opened the international friendly tournament in Belarus with victory. They nipped Jordan in the opener in Mogilev. Stanislav Tymofeyenko (204-F-89) scored 18 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to pace the winners.
Jordan dominated in the first half. The Asian team pulled in front for a 23:18 lead after ten minutes. Jordan limited their opponents to just 11 points in the second period. The margin grew at 13-point mark at halftime 42:29. But Ukraine took over after the big break. They stepped on the gas and clawed their way back into the game. Ukraine fired 28 points in the third stanza to narrow the deficit at just 7-point mark with one quarter to go. Ukraine unloaded 24 points in the fourth term and celebrated a tough win at the end. Igor Zaitsev (211-F/C-89) produced 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Ruslan Otverchenko (192-G/F-90) and Bogdan Bayda (193-G-89) added 9 points each in the win. Abbaas Zaid (203-F-83) replied with 25 points and 8 rebounds for Jordan. Osama Daghlas (199-G-79, college: Midwestern St.) provided 16 points, while Ayman Adais (208-C-78, agency: Court Side) finished with 12 in the loss. Ukraine will face Belarus, while Jordan will take on Cyprus tonight.

Ukraine: Stanislav Tymofeyenko 18, Igor Zaitsev 13, Ruslan Otverchenko 9, Bogdan Bayda 9
Jordan: Abbaas Zaid 16, Osama Daghlas 16, Ayman Adais 12

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LATVIA

Turkey U16 won the opener of the Baltic Cup 2011 in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16-Turkey U16 52:75

Turkey U16 won the opener of the Baltic Cup 2011 in Kaunas. The Turkish side upset the Latvian team 75:52 as the Coach Taner Gunay was satisfied with the first result.
Latvia won the opening tip 7:6, but Turkey grabbed 19:16 at the end of the frame. The latter increased to 26:21 after 25 minutes and enjoyed 32:28 halftime advantage. Moreover the reached double digits lead at 42:32 and had 54:42 after thirty minutes of the game. They added 21-10 on the last frame to seal the victory.
Cedi Osman (193-G-95) poured in 14 points for the winners and Ayberk Guleryuz (207-C/F-95) netted 10. Metecen Birsen and Mehmet Firat Alemdaroglu (197-F-96) delivered 9 points each in a win. Danis Geks asnwered with 13 points in the losing case, while Rolands Smits (95) posted 10.

Latvia U16: Danis Geks 13, Rolands Smits 10
Turkey U16: Cedi Osman 14, Ayberk Guleryuz 10, Metecen Birsen 9, Mehmet Firat Alemdaroglu 9

U20: France stamp Latvia to stay perfect in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
France U20 - Latvia U20 79:46

France registered the third win in a row at U20 European Championship. They thumped Latvia to improve at 3-0 record in Group B. Latvia finished in the third position in the pool qualifying into the next round of action. Evan Fournier (200-G/F-92) topscored with 23 points for Les Bleus.
Evan Fournier unloaded 15 points in the opening quarter to ensure good start for France. Les Bleus grabbed a 24:12 lead at the first break. France opened the second period with back-to-back three-pointers to set the tone. Latvia scored just three points in the period as France established a 38:15 halftime lead. Les Bleus maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final intermission up by 32 points 59:27. Latvia increased the tempo in the fourth quarter but France easily matched the effort and cruised to the victory at the end. Joffrey Lauvergne (210-F-91) nailed 14 points in the winning effort. Martins Meiers (206-C-91) answered with 13 points for Latvia. Edmunds Dukulis (204-C-92, agency: Players Group) had 11 points in the loss.

France U20: Evan Fournier 23, Joffrey Lauvergne 14, Kevin Mendy (200-G/F-92) 9
Latvia U20: Martins Meiers 13, Edmunds Dukulis 11

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LITHUANIA

U20: Germany silence Lithuania to advance into Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Germany U20 - Lithuania U20 88:74

Germany wrapped up U20 European Championship preliminary round with victory. They knocked down Lithuania to clinch the second place in Group D. Lithuania in the meantime suffered the second loss and would battle against relegation in classification round now. Niels Giffey (200-G/F-91) paced well-balanced effort from Germany with 16 points.
Augustas Peciukevicius (191-G-91) unloaded 11 points in the first period to keep Lithuania in charge. The Baltic team erupted for 31 points to build a 5-point lead. But Ole Wendt (190-G-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) and Barthel quickly erased the deficit in the second frame. The teams traded baskets before Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) made it 45:44 for Lithuania at halftime. Germany opened the second half on a 6:0 run to surge ahead. Lithuania managed just seven points in the third term to face a 9-point deficit before the fourth quarter. Germany tipped off the fourth quarter with a 7:2 run to take a 14-point lead. Kulvietis and Augustas Peciukevicius gave Lithuania hope as they dragged the team within 6 points with just over two minutes remaining. But Theis, Klein and Ole Wendt converted a bunch of free throws late in regulation to seal the victory for Germany. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F/G-92) and Ole Wendt produced 15 points each for Germany. Augustas Peciukevicius produced 18 points, 6 boards and 6 assists for Lithuania. Dovydas Redikas added 13 points in the loss.

Germany U20: Niels Giffey 16, Mathis Monninghoff 15, Ole Wendt 15
Lithuania U20: Augustas Peciukevicius 18, Dovydas Redikas 13

Kaunas saw an easy win of the home side over Estonia - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16-Estonia U16 97:52

Kaunas saw an easy win of the home side over Estonia in the start of the Baltic Cup 2011. Lithuania U16 overcame the guests 97:52 in four-nation campaign.
Lithuania started awesome and reached 14:3 after the first five minutes of the game. They increased to 24:6 at the end of the frame, but Estonia reduced to 33:21 after 15 minutes. Due to 20-16 in the second period Estonia cut to 14 points at the halftime. Lithuania meanwhile added 22-9 and 35-17 in the third and the last quarters respectively. Their biggest lead in the game was 45 points.
Paulius Sakinis (197-F-95) poured in 17 points for the hosts and Gediminas Zalalis netted 16. Paulius Valinskas ended up with 15 and Ricardas Verbickas scored 14. Saimon Sutt (168-G-95) and Sander Kruus netted 11 points each in defeat.

Lithuania U16: Paulius Sakinis 17, Gediminas Zalalis 16, Paulius Valinskas 15, Ricardas Verbickas 14
Estonia U16: Saimon Sutt 11, Sander Kruus 11

Siauliai land Cam Long - by Eurobasket News
Siauliai brought in another rookie player. They agreed on terms of contract with Cam Long (193-G-88). The 22-year-old guard has just graduated from George Mason University. Cam Long tallied 15.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.4 steals per game in his senior season. Cam Long made it into All-CAA 1st Team. The guard was also named into NABC Division I All-District 10 1st Team for the second season in a row. The guard participated at Pre-NBA Draft Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. Cam Long posted 12.5 points, 4.5 boards, 1.5 steals and 1.0 assist per game there.

World Military Championship: Lithuania upset Brazil - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Brazil 65:61

Lithuania victoriously opened their World Military Championship campaign. They fired past Brazil in Group B. Gytis Andrijauskas (187-G-86) and Vytautas Sarakauskas (203-C-82) scored 17 points each to lead the effort.
Lithuania jumped to an early lead but Brazil quickly denied it. The hosts ensured a 23:19 advantage at the first break. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the second period. Brazil posted a 33:32 lead at the interval. Lithuania however managed to pull their noses in front in the third term. They recorded a 45:43 lead with one quarter to go. The teams went neck and neck in the fourth period but the visitors turned out more accurate in the dying seconds stealing a narrow victory at the end. Tomas Lukosevicius (200-C-80) delivered 8 points for the winners. Luiz Felipe (201-F-79) answered with 20 points for Brazil. Tiago Lima, Frederico Lima and Audrei Parisotto (195-G-84) had 8 points each in the loss.

Lithuania: Gytis Andrijauskas 17, Vytautas Sarakauskas 17, Tomas Lukosevicius 8
Brazil: Luiz Felipe 20, Tiago Lima 8, Frederico Lima 8, Audrei Parisotto 8

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LUXEMBOURG

U20: Richards paced Standard Life GB to the initial win - by Eurobasket News
Luxembourg U20-Great Britain U20 56:85

Ryan Richards (212-C/F-91, agency: Interperformances) paced Standard Life GB to the initial win in Sarajevo. The team from Great Britain won over Luxembourg 85:56 as the leader scored 20 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.
It was not sweet start for the British team that trailed 4:6 in the opening tip. Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) nailed three for 15:13 and Ryan Richards closed the first period at 18:17. Only in the second frame the favorites managed to prove their ambitions. They erupted with 24-9 for 42:26 at the halftime. Rene Wolzfeld (190-F-91) opened the third frame from the perimeter and Kuhlmann reduced to 47:39. Melcher was the last to score in the third period, but the board showed 63:43 and it was clear about the winner. Great Britain added 22-13 in the last frame to seal the initial victory.
Alex Marcotullio and Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) nailed 15 points each, while Alasdair Fraser (201-F/C-92) netted 12. Max Schmit1 (182-PG-92) delivered 20 in defeat, while Rene Wolzfeld notched 13.

Luxembourg U20: Max Schmit1 20, Rene Wolzfeld 13
Great Britain U20: Ryan Richards 20+11 rebs, Alex Marcotullio 15, Devon Van Oostrum 15, Alasdair Fraser 12

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MALI

U16 Tunisia goes to Finals in Egypt - by Eurobasket News
U16 Tunisia booked a spot for the Big Final of U16 AfroBasket in Egypt. Tunisia had to work very hard to beat U16 Mali in the Semis. They registered tiny 51-49 victory to reach the Gold medal game. There, Tunisia will meet the host of this event. Both teams are perfect so far. Tunisia won the Preliminary Group B with 3-0 record. After that, they eliminated South Africa 80-38 in the QFinals. Mali reached the Semis thanks to 47-44 win against Mozambique. Mali will meet Angola today in the battle for Bronze. That game is scheduled for 15:30h. The Big Final will start at 18h.

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MEXICO

Mexican University National Team to confront Madereros de Durango - by Carlos Chapa
The Mexican University National Team -which will participate in the World University Games to be held in Shenzhen (China)-, will play a preparation match against CIBANE's Madereros de Durango, the friendly game will take place next Sunday, July 17 in Durango's Auditorio del Pueblo at 18:00 (CT), and will serve the purpose of making the last adjustments to the National Teams roster, nine cuts will be made to the final roster that will represent Mexico internationally.

Team Madereros de Durango features four former Mexico National Team members: Santiago Nogueira, who went on to play two World University Games, Erick Hare, who has been part of the National Team Senior, and Jesus and Victor Chavez both brothers part of the preliminary list for the 2005 Universiade.

Speaking about the Mexican University National Team, their preliminary roster includes five fellow nationals playing in the NCAA, six members from national champions CEU University, three members from the first tier national games champions Nuevo Leon and two from the Big Eight tournament champions Universidad Autonoma de Chihuahua.

Mexican University National Team preliminary roster:
Israel Nolasco - Universidad Autonoma de Chihuahua
Alan Olivas - Universidad Autonoma de Chihuahua
Uriel Segura - Texas State University at San Marcos
Ricardo Espriu - Centro de Estudios Universitarios
Gabriel Giron - Centro de Estudios Universitarios
Cesar Martin del Campo - Instituto Tecnologico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey Campus Monterrey
Jorge Gutierrez - University of California
Francisco Cruz - University of Wyoming
Adrian Felix - Instituto Tecnologico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey Campus Monterrey
Jorge Chavez - Centro de Estudios Universitarios
Mauricio Cheda - University of Texas El Paso
Alexis Cervantes - Centro de Estudios Universitarios
Jacinto Romero - Instituto Tecnologico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey Campus Monterrey
Raul Delgado - Western Nebraska Comunity College
Ricardo Calatayud - Universidad Popular Autonoma de Puebla
Javier Inzunza - Centro de Estudios Universitarios
Aaron Salazar - Centro de Estudios Universitarios
Jose Gutierrez - Instituto Tecnologico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey Campus Hidalgo
Arturo Prieto - University of California San Diego
Israel Ronquillo - Universidad Popular Autonoma de Puebla
Eder Padilla - Universidad Valle de Mexico Campus Guadalajara Sur

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MONTENEGRO

MOZAMBIQUE

U16 Mozambique too much for U16 South Africa, 69-61 - by Eurobasket News
U16 Mozambique is step closer to fifth place at the U16 AfroBasket in Egypt. First obstacle is successfully passed. Mozambique outplayed U16 South Africa yesterday 69-61. In the other game, Algeria handed 68-50 loss to Congo-Brazaville, so Mozambique and Algeria will meet for the fifth place at this event. The game is scheduled for today at 13h. South Africa will try to avoid the last place in Egypt. In order to do that, South Africa will have to beat Congo-Brazaville. In the Big Final of U16 AfroBasket, Egypt will meet Tunisia. They will play today at 18h. In the battle for Bronze, Angola will meet Mali. Today is the last day of the competition in Egypt.

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NBA

Dwyane Wade undergoes Lasik surgery - by Eurobasket News
Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) underwent Lasik eye surgery Friday morning in Sunrise, Fla.

The seven-time All-Star announced the news at about 1 p.m. Friday afternoon when he wrote on Twitter, 'Just made my first move of the summer to get better next year..i got lasik on my eyes..thanks to Dr Lessner at Millennium Laser eye center'

The surgery was a success, according to Dr. Cory Lessner, who has performed more than 25,000 Lasik procedures, including Wade's.

'His procedure went like clockwork,' Lessner said in a statement. 'Were extremely honored that Dwyane entrusted us with his precious eyesight.'

Lasik surgery is an outpatient procedure that involves the laser removal of corneal tissue. The surgery is intended to reduce a patient's dependence on glasses or contacts.

It's unlikely the procedure will have much of an impact on Wade's offseason workout regimen.

The FDA recommends that Lasik patients refrain from contact sports for three days after undergoing the procedure.

Patients are also advised to wear an eye shield at night for up to four weeks and stay out of swimming pools or hot tubs for up to eight weeks after surgery.

The FDA indicates that it could take up to three to six months for vision to stabilize after surgery, though fluctuations for that long are uncommon.

According to the Millennium Laser Eye Centers website, the South Florida-based company is the official Lasik provider to the Heat, as well as the Miami Dolphins, Florida Panthers and Florida Marlins.

The website includes photos of a number of pro athlete patients of Lessner, including New York Yankees pitcher A.J. Burnett, Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder, Vancouver Canucks goaltender Roberto Luongo and Florida Marlins pitcher Chris Volstad, among others.

Wade's girlfriend, actress and model Gabrielle Union, is also shown on the website with Lessner after her Lasik surgery last October.

Wade averaged 25.5 points, 6.4 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game this season, his first alongside LeBron James and Chris Bosh.

'Its hard to imagine that he can be a better ball player, but it is our hope that he will find this newfound clarity an asset to his performance,' Lessner said. 'Youll have to ask him down the road if he believes that it helped his game.

Courtesy of www.foxsportsflorida.com

Rockets officially hire Kelvin Sampson, J.B. Bickerstaff, Chris Finch, Brett Gunning as assistant coaches - by Eurobasket News
Houston Rockets Head Coach Kevin McHale announced today that he has hired two-time NCAA National Coach of the Year Kelvin Sampson as lead assistant coach, as well as John-Blair Bickerstaff, Chris Finch and Brett Gunning as assistant coaches on his staff.

Im thrilled to have these men on my coaching staff, said McHale. We are fortunate to have a very qualified and well-respected group of coaches on staff who will be committed to winning and helping our players reach their full potential.

Kelvin Sampson has an established track record as a very successful college and NBA coach and will be a valuable addition to my staff. I have known J.B. Bickerstaff since our days together in Minnesota, and he has developed into one of the leagues best young coaches. I had an opportunity to work with Chris Finch for a few weeks leading up to the draft and I am very impressed with his success in the D-League and internationally. Brett Gunning has been here for the past three seasons in a player development role, but he has a very good feel for our players and the system we plan to implement.

Sampson joins the Rockets after spending three seasons as an assistant coach with the Milwaukee Bucks. During his time with the Bucks, Sampson was part of a staff that helped Milwaukees defense improve from 15th in the NBA in points allowed per 100 possessions in 2008-09, to second in 2009-10, and fourth in 2010-11. Prior to moving into the NBA, Sampson served two seasons as head coach at Indiana University (2006-08) where his teams went 43-15 (.741) and received NCAA Tournament bids in both of his two campaigns. His biggest success came during his 12 seasons at Oklahoma University (1994-2006) where Sampson earned two National Coach of the Year awards (AP in 1995 and NABC in 2002), made 12 postseason showings in 12 seasons (11 NCAA and one NIT), advanced to the NCAA Tournaments Sweet 16 (1999), Final Four (2002) and Elite Eight (2003), captured three Big 12 Tournament championships (2001, 2002 and 2003) and shared the 2005 Big 12 regular season title with Kansas. Sampson won at least 20 games in each of his final nine seasons at OU and finished with a 279-109 (.719) record with the Sooners.

Sampson went to Oklahoma from Washington State where he was as an assistant before being named head coach. Overall, he went 103-103 (.500) with the Cougars (1987-94) and was twice named Kodak District 14 Coach of the Year by the NABC (1990-91 and 1991-92), as well as earning Pac-10 Coach of the Year (1991-92). He began his collegiate head coaching career at Montana Tech (1981-85), winning two regular season titles and one Frontier Conference championship. Over his final four seasons, he guided the Orediggers to a 73-45 (.619) mark. Montana Tech had won just 17 games combined in the three years prior to his arrival. Sampson was also named the leagues Coach of the Year twice (1983 and 1985).

Bickerstaff comes to the Rockets after spending four seasons (2007-11) as an assistant coach with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Prior to joining the Timberwolves, Bickerstaff spent three seasons (2004-07) as an assistant coach to his father, Bernie Bickerstaff, with the Charlotte Bobcats. He also served as head coach of Charlottes Summer League teams in 2005 and 2006. The youngest assistant coach in the NBA at age 25 when he began with the Bobcats in 2004-05, J.B. followed in the footsteps of his father, who was the youngest assistant coach when he joined the NBA at 29 years old in 1973.

Around basketball his whole life, Bickerstaff provided color analysis on radio broadcasts in 2003-04 for the Timberwolves when the team won the Midwest Division and advanced to the Western Conference Finals. Prior to that, he served as the director of operations for the University of Minnesota mens basketball program where he oversaw all administrative areas of the program and assisted the coaching staff with recruiting, scouting and coaching.

Finch enters his first season as an assistant coach with the Rockets after spending two campaigns as head coach of Houstons single-affiliation NBA Development League partner the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. In two seasons at the helm of the Vipers, Finch registered a mark of 67-33 (.670) and guided Rio Grande Valley to back-to-back D-League Finals. In 2009-10, Finch took home the Dennis Johnson Coach of the Year Award en route to capturing the 2009-10 D-League championship. Finch also led the Western Conference All-Stars to a win at the 2009 D-League All-Star Game in Dallas.

Prior to his return to the United States, Finch built a successful overseas coaching career that included taking over a dormant Great Britain National Team in May 2006 and winning FIBAs 2007 Division B Promotional Competition. In 2009, his squad qualified for the European Championships for the first time since 1981. Finch will also lead the British National Team in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. In addition to his work with the British National Team, Finch was a head coach of teams in England (Sheffield Sharks), Germany (Giessen 46ers) and Belgium (Euphony Bree, Dexia Mons-Hainaut) from 1997-2009. Finch, who has three titles and three BBL Cup Finals on his resume, qualified for the playoffs in 11 of his 12 seasons overseas. A three-time Coach of the Year, he was also selected as a FIBA EuroCup All-Star head coach. He began his career with Sheffield, which was the same club that he played on during his four-year professional playing career. Under Finchs tutelage, the Sharks enjoyed the franchises most successful run in its history. Finch was named the BBL Coach of the Year after winning the regular season title with Sheffield in 1998-99. He also led Euphony Bree to their first-ever championship in 2005.

Gunning begins his fourth season with the Houston Rockets and his first as an assistant coach. Gunning began with the Rockets as the teams Director of Player Development, where he was responsible for improving player performance through on-court, one-on-one skill development and the use of video analysis.

Gunning joined the Rockets in 2008 after seven seasons on Jay Wrights staff at Villanova University. During his stay with the Wildcats, Gunning played a vital role in recruiting and developing a unit that secured four straight NCAA Tournament berths and made three appearances in the Sweet 16. Gunning was named associate head coach in 2005 and was recognized following the 2007-08 season as one of the top-25 assistants in the nation by rivals.com. His responsibilities with the Wildcats included on-court teaching, recruiting and scouting. A part of Wrights staffs at both Hofstra University and Villanova, Gunning was an integral part of the rebirth orchestrated at Hofstra over his seven seasons. He was part of a staff that built the Pride into an America East powerhouse that posted a 72-22 (.766) record from 1998-2001. Gunning, who assisted with recruiting, individual instruction, scouting and film analysis at Hofstra, was also instrumental in the development of Pride players

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Cuttino Mobley wants one more shot at the NBA - by Eurobasket News
Former NBA guard Cuttino Mobley (6'5''-G-74, college: Rhode Island), who retired in 2008 because of a heart ailment, would like another shot at playing in the NBA.

Mobley played for 11 years with four NBA teams, but was forced to leave the game after he was traded by the L.A. Clippers to the New York Knicks.

After a routine physical following the trade, Mobley was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

It is the same condition that led to the deaths of basketball players Hank Gathers and Reggie Lewis.

'It's a lot of different variations of HCM,' Mobley said in an interview with FOX 26 Sports. 'Me playing 40 minutes a game for 11 years straight at a very high level.

'Mine is not serious at all. As you can see 11 years of playing and still playing three years later after they said you shouldn't play. You shouldn't run. You shouldn't do this. You shouldn't play that. A lot of different things they said you shouldn't do.'

This week Mobley was back on the court in Houston taking part in pick up games with NBA players like Washington Wizards forward Rashard Lewis, Indiana Pacers guard T.J. Ford and Houston Rockets guard Kyle Lowry.

However, Mobley wants more than that.

He wants to play with and against those guys again when the games matter and he said he and his agent, Andy Miller, have made the NBA aware of his situation.

'I've been trying to do that,' Mobley said. 'You have to get doctor's evaluations and all this other stuff, but you got to understand too what the Knicks put out there, the notion, nobody wants to take that chance now. I've been playing with it for so many years. You ask yourself was it genuine or did you do it for a reason?

'I'm not done. It depends on what the league says when the time comes. It's been a difficult process.

'What the Knicks did kind of putting a stomp in it and giving people that fear about me, something I was born with.'

Mobley said he is not happy with the way the Knicks handled his situation in 2008.

'At first I was cool with it because I didn't do research on it, but then doing research and getting different opinions, then I became upset because the corporation, the big company trying to get as much money as they can and do different things like that, for me I don't think that was right,' Mobley said.

'You either waive me, you don't take me in, you let me go somewhere else, let me create my own destiny like I did in 1999 when I came to the Rockets. Let me create my own decisions. Don't make the decisions for me, clogging my heads with different things.

'I'm not upset now because I know it's a business and that's how they treat it as a business, but it's two and a half, three years I haven't played. It's been a waste.'

Mobley, who was drafted in the second round by the Houston Rockets in 1999, also played for the Orlando Magic and the Sacramento Kings.

He got a chance to get some work in with the Boston Celtics last September.

' (Celtics president of basketball operations) Danny Ainge is unbelievable,' Mobley said. 'Great dude.'

'The Celtics, I went in and played with Paul (Pierce) and Ray (Allen) and those guys. It was a three-day thing. I signed a waiver.

'I went up there not to get picked. I went up there just to let them know I'm fine. I can still play and this was just last September. So hopefully things will change and somebody will give me a shot and let me play or just help out. It'd be fun. If not, it's fine. It's all good.'

Mobley's agent, Andy Miller, was able to find two jobs for him last year.

Mobley turned down an opportunity to play for a team in Poland.

He also had a shot to play for a team in the NBA Development League, but the two sides were not able to make it happen.

'They gave a laundry list of things that we needed to do, protocol, of things that needed to be done to put him in a position that they would be willing to offer him a contract and the list and the demand within the list, they were too cumbersome,' Miller said in an interview with FOX 26 Sports.

'It had to do more with I think the league trying to protect themselves with regard to exposure, if God forbid something should ever happen to Cat.'

Miller didn't want to identify the NBA D-League team that expressed an interest in Mobley.

'There is a herd-like mentality in our business that when a player has been labeled under a certain category, there is a tendency for that to be the label regardless of change of scenery,' Miller said.

Miller has continued to check out every possibility for his client.

'Last time I spoke with every team in the (NBA) league,' Miller said. 'I treated him as a free agent in the hopes of finding him a job regardless of the economic package that would have been put together.

'I looked for jobs across the board and came up with the one with the Euro-League team in Poland and we are looking for opportunities. That hasn't changed at all.

Mobley understands his dream of returning to the NBA may end up being just that.

'Three years not playing, maybe it is a pipe dream, but it's just fun to play with guys in the summer,' Mobley said.

'Sometimes I'm happy the season is over so I can play with the guys in the summertime.'

Courtesy of www.myfoxhouston.com

Fisher new addition in NBA selection vs PBA, Gilas - by Eurobasket News
The stellar NBA cast playing Smart Gilas Pilipinas and a PBA selection in a blockbuster two-game series on July 23 and 24 at the Araneta Coliseum will have another experienced hand in the fold five-time champion Derek Fisher (186-PG-74, agency: Priority Sports, college: UALR).

The 36-year-old Fisher will join Los Angeles Lakers teammate Kobe Bryant (198-G-78) and former NBA Rookie of the Year Chris Paul (183-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) of the New Orleans Hornets in the eight-man star-studded NBA squad seeing action in the event dubbed the Ultimate All-Star Weekend and organized by the MVP Sports Foundation.

Derek Fisher, yes, said MVPSF president Al Panlilio, who confirmed Friday night at the Big Dome VIP room that the much-anticipated two-day basketball extravaganza would push through as planned.

Fisher will thus be the seventh member of the team along with Bryant, who will coach the squad, Paul, Tyreke Evans of the Sacramento Kings, James Harden of the Oklahoma Thunder, DeAndre Jordan of the Los Angeles Clippers and Derrick Williams of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Panlilio said the eighth and final member of that team will be announced soon but there were reports that the spot would be a toss-up between reigning MVP Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls and two-time scoring champion and former ROY awardee Kevin Durant of the Oklahoma Thunder.

Chot Reyes, the Talk N Text coach who is executive director of MVPSF, said the eighth man would be a bigger fish.

Fisher could join the three-point shooting side-event as he was known for during his colorful 15-year NBA career highlighted by five championships with the Lakers and perhaps give Filipinos some advice on how to be a good basketball ambassador on and off the court.

Meanwhile, Williams and Harden twitted theyre excited to go to the Philippines.

Williams, who was drafted second overall rookie pick by the Wolves in the recent NBA draft, said: Philippines going to be crazy next week! while Harden twitted : Im going to be in the Philippines next week!!!!!!!!! Excited!!!

Except for Bryant, who will be fetched in Shanghai, China on July 22 on the eve of the games, all the NBA players will arrive on July 21.

All of them, again except for Bryant, will be given a tour of some popular destinations in the country including the island paradise of Boracay.

Its part of the package, we will give them a vacation to remember in Boracay, said Reyes.

The event, which was brought to the country by Smart, PLDT, Meralco, Maynilad, TV5, Metro Pacific Tollways and Investment Corp. and Philex Mining, will feature Kobe and the gang against the Chot Reyes-mentored PBA team at 7 p.m. on July 23 and versus the Rajko Toroman-coached Smart Gilas at 1 p.m. the following day.

The MVP Sports Foundation takes pride in bringing US basketball superstars and world-class basketball entertainment to Filipinos with the Ultimate All-Star Weekend, which we hope would generate funds for our MVPSF programs, said Panlilio.

It is also the gift to the Filipino basketball-loving public by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan, he added.

James Yap and Marc Pingris of BMeg, Mark Caguioa and JC Intal of Ginebra, Arwin Santos and Rabeh Al-Hussaini of Petron Blaze, Ryan Reyes, Jason Castro and Larry Fonacier of Talk N Text, Sonny Thoss and LA Tenorio of Alaska, Sol Mercado of Meralco, Gary David of Powerade, Gabe Norwood of Rain or Shine and Danny Seigle of Air21 will comprise the PBA team.

Talk N Texts Kelly Williams, Jimmy Alapag and Ranidel de Ocampo, Meralcos Asi Taulava and Air21s Dondon Hontiveros will suit up with the Nationals, who are on the thick of preparations for the FIBA-Asia Championship in Wuhan, China.

Smart Gilas other members are naturalized Marcus Douthit, captain Chris Tiu, co-skipper Mark Barroca, JV Casio, Mac Baracael, Marcio Lassiter, Japeth Aguilar, Chris Lutz, Dylan Ababou and Jason Ballesteros.

Courtesy of www.philstar.com

Alternatives in the event of a lost NBA Season - by Eurobasket News
The lockout has cast a terrible shadow over everything NBA related with the only news surrounding the world's most popular basketball league coming from players deciding to head to Europe and the usual bickering amongst the mega rich that occur in every major pro sports work stoppage that fans just can't relate to.

In these dreadful times, a period that would normally be pretty exciting, free agency, has also fallen by the wayside because player movement among teams is banned.

So then, what is an NBA fan to do with his/her favorite league shut down? Simple, find an alternative form of high-level basketball to take in until this entire crisis solves itself.

With summer in full swing, there's luckily quite a bit going on in basketball, particularly on the international scene.

The 2011 NBA Draft was defined by the many international players drafted, and for fans who haven't seen a lot of these guys play, a great opportunity to see some of them in action will be at the upcoming 2012 Olympic Qualification tournaments, such as EuroBasket and the FIBA Americas Championship, beginning at the end of August.

Third overall draft pick Enes Kanter has already confirmed he'll be playing for his native Turkey, meaning we can all finally see him play in an organized game, and recent FIBA U19 World Championship MVP and fifth-overall pick Jonas Valanciunas has expressed interest in playing for the senior team so fans will be able to get a second look at the promising young center.

Many of the teams will also feature current NBA players such as Tony Parker, Joakim Noah and Mickael Pietrus on France, Pau and Marc Gasol, Serge Ibaka and Ricky Rubio on Spain and many others peppered across almost every single team that will be competing for an Olympic bid.

With so much to offer, FIBA is definitely a brand of basketball that NBA fans will want to look into. However, the only downside is the timing of the tournaments will do nothing in the doldrums period between now and the championships or when the season would officially begin at the start of November.

With the exception of the WNBA, there isn't much in the way of actual competition being played right now. The women's game can be very entertaining and is definitely an option for fans but for those who want to focus specifically on the men's side, the best solution would be keeping up to date with the many summer prospect camps.

A lot of the players featured in these camps will eventually go on to play NCAA Division I basketball, with the most hyped prospects being labeled as the next generation of stars in the NBA.

Watching what's on the horizon can be a lot of fun but in case keeping track of high school athletes isn't for you, then, when November rolls around, college basketball will be the best option to choose in an NBA lockout world.

In the college ranks you won't be treated to the most spectacular feats of athleticism that are so often found on a night-to-night basis in the NBA but you will be able to take in very high-level basketball, with more emphasis on team execution rather than individual talent.

It can be a refreshing change of pace but for those who want star power, the 2011-12 NCAA season will be one to watch as it'll be absolutely loaded with talent as some of the best NBA prospects from this year's draft decided to stay back another year because of the uncertainty surrounding the lockout, meaning there's essentially two star-studded classes in one.

Life without the NBA is definitely going to be hard for fans and even though these alternatives can't replicate the magic of the 82-game season and four rounds of playoffs, they can at least help scratch that basketball itch.

Couretsy of www.latimes.com

Deron Williams officially inks deal with Besiktas - by Eurobasket News
It's official: New Jersey Nets point guard Deron Williams (191-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Illinois) will be playing in Turkey next season if there's an NBA lockout.

Williams tweeted the signature on his one-year contract with Besiktas late Friday night from his verified Twitter account.

'Just made it official, headed to Turkey ...signed with Besiktas & @BJK_Basketbol,' he wrote.

Williams' contract with Besiktas is worth $5 million, sources told ESPN.com's Chris Broussard.

Atlanta Hawks center Zaza Pachulia also has an agreement to play for the club, which briefly employed Allen Iverson last season.

Sources told ESPN.com's Marc Stein last week that Williams would not be required to report to the Turkish club before the end of August or early September and that his deal with them would include an immediate out that allows him to return to the NBA as soon as the work stoppage ends.

Williams has two years left on his contract with the Nets but is widely expected to opt out the final season, valued at nearly $18 million, to become a free agent in the summer of 2012.

Williams, 27, averaged 20.1 points and 10.3 assists for the Nets and the Utah Jazz last season.

Players under contract like Williams would typically need a letter of clearance from FIBA -- the sport's world governing body -- to play anywhere else. But the NBA Players Association has privately maintained for months that it intends to legally challenge any attempt by the NBA or FIBA to block a player such as Williams from playing elsewhere while the NBA has imposed a work stoppage.

'If they try to stop him,' one source said of Williams, 'the union will fight it.'

The bigger risk for Williams is injury-related, especially after he was plagued by a wrist injury throughout the second half of last season after the Nets acquired him from Utah on Feb. 24. The injury required surgery on Williams' right wrist after the season.

Courtesy of ESPN

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

NCAA1

Tar Heels' basketball player McDonald tears ACL - by Eurobasket News
Leslie McDonald (6'4''-G-91), a junior guard on the North Carolina basketball team, tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee Thursday night during a Greater NC Pro-Am Summer League game in Durham and will be out indefinitely. Surgery has not been scheduled at this time, according to UNC.

The 6-foot-4 McDonald, from Memphis, Tenn., was second on the team last year with 51 3-point field goals and averaged 7.0 points per game.

'I just hate this for Leslie and his family,' UNC coach Roy Williams said in a statement. 'He's worked so hard this offseason, and he told me he was really playing well. We'll certainly support him as he works to get back on the floor, but we will miss his play on both ends of the court.'

Courtesy of www.charlotteobserver.com

World Military Championship: USA edge South Korea in Rio de Janeiro - by Eurobasket News
USA - South Korea 76:68

The USA claimed the opening win at the World Military Championship in Brazil. They held off South Korea in Group A action. Matthew Matt McCraw (6'2''-G) stepped up with 25 points to lead the effort.
It was a close battle from start to finish. The United State got to a slightly better start. They registered an 18:14 lead after ten minutes. But South Korea quickly erased the deficit in the second period. The Asian team arrived at the interval up by 2 points 40:38. The Koreans boosted the lead in the third term. They posted a 57:53 advantage with ten minutes to go in regulation. The USA first knotted things up at 64. They went on a 12:4 run then and sealed the winning outcome at the end. John Frye (6'10''-C) and Jammar Major delivered 12 points apiece for the winners. Gwang Jae Lee replied with 19 points for South Korea. Sueng Ho Ki and Hoon Ham Ji netted 14 points each in the loss.

USA: Matt McCraw 25, John Frye 12, Jammar Major 12
South Korea: Gwang Jae Lee 19, Sueng Ho Ki 14, Hoon Ham Ji 14

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

NEPAL

NORWAY

PHILIPPINES

Fisher new addition in NBA selection vs PBA, Gilas - by Eurobasket News
The stellar NBA cast playing Smart Gilas Pilipinas and a PBA selection in a blockbuster two-game series on July 23 and 24 at the Araneta Coliseum will have another experienced hand in the fold five-time champion Derek Fisher (186-PG-74, agency: Priority Sports, college: UALR).

The 36-year-old Fisher will join Los Angeles Lakers teammate Kobe Bryant (198-G-78) and former NBA Rookie of the Year Chris Paul (183-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) of the New Orleans Hornets in the eight-man star-studded NBA squad seeing action in the event dubbed the Ultimate All-Star Weekend and organized by the MVP Sports Foundation.

Derek Fisher, yes, said MVPSF president Al Panlilio, who confirmed Friday night at the Big Dome VIP room that the much-anticipated two-day basketball extravaganza would push through as planned.

Fisher will thus be the seventh member of the team along with Bryant, who will coach the squad, Paul, Tyreke Evans of the Sacramento Kings, James Harden of the Oklahoma Thunder, DeAndre Jordan of the Los Angeles Clippers and Derrick Williams of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Panlilio said the eighth and final member of that team will be announced soon but there were reports that the spot would be a toss-up between reigning MVP Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls and two-time scoring champion and former ROY awardee Kevin Durant of the Oklahoma Thunder.

Chot Reyes, the Talk N Text coach who is executive director of MVPSF, said the eighth man would be a bigger fish.

Fisher could join the three-point shooting side-event as he was known for during his colorful 15-year NBA career highlighted by five championships with the Lakers and perhaps give Filipinos some advice on how to be a good basketball ambassador on and off the court.

Meanwhile, Williams and Harden twitted theyre excited to go to the Philippines.

Williams, who was drafted second overall rookie pick by the Wolves in the recent NBA draft, said: Philippines going to be crazy next week! while Harden twitted : Im going to be in the Philippines next week!!!!!!!!! Excited!!!

Except for Bryant, who will be fetched in Shanghai, China on July 22 on the eve of the games, all the NBA players will arrive on July 21.

All of them, again except for Bryant, will be given a tour of some popular destinations in the country including the island paradise of Boracay.

Its part of the package, we will give them a vacation to remember in Boracay, said Reyes.

The event, which was brought to the country by Smart, PLDT, Meralco, Maynilad, TV5, Metro Pacific Tollways and Investment Corp. and Philex Mining, will feature Kobe and the gang against the Chot Reyes-mentored PBA team at 7 p.m. on July 23 and versus the Rajko Toroman-coached Smart Gilas at 1 p.m. the following day.

The MVP Sports Foundation takes pride in bringing US basketball superstars and world-class basketball entertainment to Filipinos with the Ultimate All-Star Weekend, which we hope would generate funds for our MVPSF programs, said Panlilio.

It is also the gift to the Filipino basketball-loving public by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan, he added.

James Yap and Marc Pingris of BMeg, Mark Caguioa and JC Intal of Ginebra, Arwin Santos and Rabeh Al-Hussaini of Petron Blaze, Ryan Reyes, Jason Castro and Larry Fonacier of Talk N Text, Sonny Thoss and LA Tenorio of Alaska, Sol Mercado of Meralco, Gary David of Powerade, Gabe Norwood of Rain or Shine and Danny Seigle of Air21 will comprise the PBA team.

Talk N Texts Kelly Williams, Jimmy Alapag and Ranidel de Ocampo, Meralcos Asi Taulava and Air21s Dondon Hontiveros will suit up with the Nationals, who are on the thick of preparations for the FIBA-Asia Championship in Wuhan, China.

Smart Gilas other members are naturalized Marcus Douthit, captain Chris Tiu, co-skipper Mark Barroca, JV Casio, Mac Baracael, Marcio Lassiter, Japeth Aguilar, Chris Lutz, Dylan Ababou and Jason Ballesteros.

Courtesy of www.philstar.com

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

POLAND

PORTUGAL

U20: Portugal beat Finland to tie both records at 2-1 - by Eurobasket News
Finland U20-Portugal U20 50:57

Portugal beat Finland to tie both records at 2-1 at U20 European Championship. Portugal needed 57:50 win in Division B in Sarajevo.
Finland entered the game undefeated and started with 5-0 run. Nikkarinen made two free throws for 11:2 and Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) made a dunk for 22:11 at the end of the first period. The second frame was a nightmare for the Finnish side that scored only 2 points. Portugal scored 7 and reduced to 24:18 at the halftime. Another 18-11 in the third period brought 1-point advantage for Portugal. Miguel Queiroz (202-C/F-91) drove a lay-up for 36:35 after thirty minutes and Cardoso increased to 40:35. Torrie scored the last points for the winners, while Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) made the final score in the game.
Miguel Queiroz top-scored for the winners with 14 points and 14 caroms, while Carlos Ferreirinho (200-F/G-91) netted 11 and Renato Azevedo (186-G/F-91) scored 10. Carl Lindbom ended up with 18 points and 13 rebounds in their first loss. Villematti Kopio and Osku Heinonen (194-F/G-92) delivered 8 points each for the Scandinavian team.

Finland U20: Carl Lindbom 18+13 rebs, Villematti Kopio 8, Osku Heinonen 8
Portugal U20: Miguel Queiroz 14+14 rebs, Carlos Ferreirinho 11, Renato Azevedo 10

Portugal topple Morocco in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News
Portugal - Morocco 74:72

Portugal earned the third straight win in their exhibition series in Istanbul. They narrowly prevailed against Morocco. Joao Santos (205-C-79, college: Nevada) stepped up with 19 points to lead the winners.
It was a tough battle for Portuguese team. They trailed throughout the first half. Morocco ensured a 41:37 halftime advantage. Morocco maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They entered the fourth frame up by four points. But Portugal stiffened their defence limiting the African team to only 13 points in the final quarter. It paid off as Portugal eked out a difficult victory at the end. Jose Costa (187-G-73) nailed 18 points for the winners. Carlos Andrade (197-F-78, college: Queens, NC) finished with 13 points. Portugal will next face Egypt.

Joao Gomes agreed on terms of contract with Benfica - by Eurobasket News
Joao Gomes (199-F-85) has reportedly agreed on terms of contract with Benfica. The 26-year-old forward is expected to ink a 1+1 contract with the Portuguese powerhouse. The deal should be officiated in August. Last season Joao Gomes spent in Spain. He played for Breogan in LEB Gold. Joao Gomes tallied 9.7 points, 5.1 boards and 1.2 assists per game. Before joining Breogan Joao Gomes has spent five seasons with Barreirense in Portugal. Eurobasket.com named Joao Gomes Most Improved Player of the Year in 2005 and 2007. The forward was the member of Portuguese National Team in 2005-10 seasons. He posted 10.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists per game at 2007 EuroBasket in Spain.

Artur Aguiar (Iliabum) - against FPB - by Hugo Carvalho
The news published in 'O Record' at 9/7/2011where the President of the Portuguese Basketball Federation, Mario Saldanha spoke a few words about the future of the sport in Portugal, was not welcomed in Ilhavo, city of basketball Iliabum, through its President, Artur Aguiar.

Mr. President, as in everything in life, there must be rules and I'm used to respect them. You represent the FPB, representation achieved in this election, which in principle have been fair, regardless of ones like it, and others do not.

However, things have been going on for too long. Do not you think? Justified so long as the head of the FPB? It is his love for the sport? Do not be too long?
You have your reasons, but believe that many people can not understand that. I can not understand.

There is no reason, and I never will admit, when you meddle or make inappropriate comments - referring to an institution which, with huge problems, has, however, and in recent times, tried to swim against a series of circumstances, seeking only be in the sport, according to its possibilities.

There are still some things to 'sweep' and finish, but has especially developed a huge job, to try that as a historic club that is the sport can continue to develop this sport (...) Illiabum never made any pressure, direct or indirect, for this to happen. The club is for sports law in a position to compete for the championship Proliga.

For many reasons, it is unknown even today, if will be in this competition or another, because everything is very confusing and 'God willing' that the FPB, has teams for make the LPB and PROLIGA.

This decision, if it participates and where it participates, is a question that has to decide who will decide. (...)
I do not admit that the President intends to meddle in what Illiabum can and should decide.

As you are not allowed to say that there pressure or request for an extension, or just contemplate credible projects. These are totally false insinuations, I tell you Mr. President that perhaps it's time to consider real credible projects for the FPB, otherwise the organization disappear, for such is the lack of direction that has been taking, without quite understand what makes (...) although I am of those who think that a structure like that of the FPB, must be professionally or at least very well organized and, from my point of view, is not and has not been.

Portuguese basketball, even very recently held a few bad examples, just because they wanted to have visibility - we do not understand why - which led, in very little time to disappear.
There is no strategy in most cases. Neither the clubs (with some honorable exceptions known and historic - I do not mean the club I represent, of course).

What have you done? The management protocol and its amendments / ribs with the IDP - with funds that are not inconsiderable, (...); organizes the championships without a strategy, without disclosing the basketball giving performances at times depressing, without public, lackluster, without fans, bringing the level of this sport at a quality that begins to be very low.

It is not clear what made the selections, what they spend, what results have (anyone know any decent results in recent years?)
Nobody understands which basketball we have on the young ().

Apart from that, what made the FPB for the development of basketball? What made the FPB to help clubs? What disclosure FPB did for basketball?

Who believes that a sport like basketball that has been the 2nd. in notoriety, today is almost unknown?

Are there any 'wars' between the FPB or any member of the FPB and the 'media'?

What work has been done for basketball?

Would not it be possible that at least we could see on television, an hour of basketball, a week, covering different facets of this sport? It would not be possible to see at least a game or two a week in live or recorded?

How clubs can help if they have nothing to offer those who can support and sponsor?

Do you still not realized, probably, to continue that way, we only have two or three clubs (at best) and they must be doing several 'rounds' to organize a tournament among themselves? Is that what is intended? Obviously I believe this is not the strategy because that would represent the absolute wasting.

Who is responsible for disseminating this work, hiring and raising of television transmissions, of television reports, to obtain the revenues needed to invest seriously and not just talk, work on campaigns in marketing and image?

Is it the clubs? Does the FPB would allow that?

Does the FPB, the current juncture, unless they ask for money, have not realized that this strategy is to 'bring' real (for your interest as well) the two biggest clubs in Portugal and even a third, to understand that they can be the 'engine' to enhance and sustain the basketball?

Are these and many other answers that need to be given. Do not understand how the FPB (...) does not realize that basketball is only something important and the development of many young people if start looking urgently for younger players.

It is necessary to design and develop a strategy that will act in a very close line between clubs, associations and FPB ().

There is clearly a lack of strategy and vision to face these difficult times we live. The FPB has been limited only to live for shadow protocols that are known and, of course, it has been difficult and it will get even more, with the cuts inevitable, which is expected...

Will to be the clubs to support some costs? Cost of what and with what? But
this idea could even be right and fair. However, the question arises: what has made FPB in favor of clubs?

But who can not 'do' it, should live the place ().

Another thing is to present the situation as 'hard' as the FPB presents complaining that the IDP will transfer less money. So throw against clubs with fees and more fees. But do not talk in some other expenses and perks of FPB that are not explainable and perhaps should be reviewed and cut.

The budget of the FPB is not completely transparent, leaving many parts of unexplained and without being known in its true dimension.

How much is spent in Portugal with the referees? It is too much or too little? How much? Nobody knows for sure, and nobody knows how the players earn.
How much does the administration FPB spend? Is it justified? I do not know if it spends too much or too little.

I know is that we must make a deep reflection and, if necessary, take a step back to when things improve and they are structured, giving two forward. This is how everything in life.

Today we manage to do better with less. Is that possible?
In the short term, to continue that way, this sport will disappear and then, there is only one salvation, as always: the clubs.

With great difficulty, will sustain things. For this reason Mr. President, what the clubs need and what this sport needs, is not interventions for the press and to show off, fleeing to the real issues.

What is needed is to work and deep reflection, urgent and capable of taking this modality that, apparently, and thankfully, you really like, to an interesting level, at least.

Spend your money, you say, so much money, certainly not going to notice the budget of the FPB and give only the idea that there are many difficulties. (...)

There are many things to do. (...) It's time to change things deeply. Do not change here and there in detail so that everything remains the same.
(...) Someone reported or made known, for example, how much the FPB support the technical team hired (without being concerned technical competence)? Does it justify these expenses? Does anyone know how much the budget of the FPB? What cuts doing here? These things should be clearer. Having a coach and a national technical team is obviously necessary. But the way to hire and manage is that it is often strange ().

Note, I have nothing against the coach / national coach I do not know, even.
But we do not have coaches who could already have taken this place? With costs lower and more concrete results? What are the costs this contract? Justified at a time when things are so bad, economic / financial?

Think about this and other aspects.

Someone has courage for this? (...)

Illiabum is not against anyone, much less against the President of FPB.

Cordially

Artur Aguiar - President of the Club's Illiabum

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ROMANIA

U20: Romania win the defensive thriller over the Swiss side - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland U20-Romania U20 47:53

The game between Switzerland U20 and Romania U20 was the last in Day 3 in Sarajevo. Romania needed a 14-0 run to win the defensive thriller 53:47.
Romania opened the game with 4-0 Bogdan Tibirna (210-C-91) scored for 8:5. The Swiss side produced a massive push in the end of the frame as Herrmann closed the quarter at 14:8. Aurelian Toth (210-C-92) reduced to 28:20 and Nuna brought Romanian side to 30:25. Dario Koludrovic (194-F-92) however nailed two threes in a row for 11-point advantage. Later Switzerland saw a nightmare in the court. Romania reduced to 36:31 after three quarters and then took the lead at 39:36 finishing 14-0 run. Jaunin nailed two free throws for 39:38 as he broke the silence for Switzerland. He went on the free throw line again to scored for 43:41 with a minute to go, while Milencovici brought 45:41 on the board. Dario Koludrovic nailed three to cut the deficit to the minimum and Telinoiu as well as Corpodean and Milencovici were perfect from the free throw line to bring another victory for Romania.
Aurelian Toth top-scored for the winners with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Bogdan Tibirna netted 15. Dario Koludrovic notched 15 points in defeat and Jonathan Dubas (201-F/C-91) had 8 points and 12 rebounds.

Switzerland U20: Dario Koludrovic 15, Jonathan Dubas 8+12 rebs
Romania U20: Aurelian Toth 18+10 rebs, Bogdan Tibirna 15

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RUSSIA

U20: Russia steal victory against Montenegro - by Eurobasket News
Russia U20 - Montenegro U20 68:66

Russia recorded the second straight win at U20 European Championship. They nipped Montenegro to catch up their opponents in Group A ladder. Both teams ensured the Qualifying Round appearance. Andrey Zubkov (205-G/F-91) and Nikita Balashov (206-F-91) nailed 13 points apiece to pace the winners.
Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) knocked down 7 points in the opening quarter to secure Montenegro lead. Pastukhov however capped the frame with three points in a row to narrow the gap at just a single point 17:18. Russia used an 8:1 run midway through the second frame to grab a 27:21 lead. But Montenegro quickly erased the deficit and restored a 35:33 advantage at halftime. The teams traded baskets throughout intense third frame. Montenegro ensured a narrow 55:52 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Andrey Zubkov and Nikita Balashov put Russia in charge 61:60 midway through the fourth period. The teams exchanged points for several minutes before Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) made it 66:65 for the Balkan team with 55 seconds remaining. However Ivan Strebkov (185-PG-91) penetrated into the paint, converted a layup and got fouled. He followed with an accurate free throw to seal the victory for Russia. Pavel Antipov (203-F-91) produced 9 points in the winning effort. Bojan Dubljevic posted 25 points and 10 rebounds for Montenegro. Nikola Ivanovic and Milutin Dukanovic (190-PG-91) had 12 points each in the loss.

Russia U20: Andrey Zubkov 13, Nikita Balashov 13, Pavel Antipov 9
Montenegro U20: Bojan Dubljevic 25+10 boards, Nikola Ivanovic 12, Milutin Dukanovic 12

Spartak Saint Petersburg tab Marcin Gortat - by Eurobasket News
Spartak Saint Petersburg made a strong market move. They have reportedly agreed on terms of contract with Marcin Gortat (213-C-84). The 27-year-old centre has been playing in the NBA since 2007. Last season Marcin Gortat started in the Orlando Magic. He tallied 4.0 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. In December the centre was traded into the Phoenix Suns. There his stats came up to 13.0 points, 9.3 boards and 1.3 blocks per appearance. Before moving to the NBA Marcin Gortat had spells for Koeln and Lodz. Marcin Gortat is the member of Polish National Team. The centre posted 18.0 points, 8.9 rebounds, 2.3 blocks and 1.6 assists per game in 2011 EuroBasket Qualifying Round.

Nikolay Padius joins Lokomotiv Kuban - by Eurobasket News
Lokomotiv Kuban strengthened their roster with addition of Nikolay Padius (197-G-80). The 30-year-old guard was last seen in Unics Kazan. He joined the team in March. His stats read 3.4 points and 1.3 rebounds per game in PBL. Previously Nikolay Padius had stints with Antalya, Marousi, Unics, Dynamo MR, Aris, Varese, CSKA and Spartak Saint Petersburg. Nikolay Padius played for Russian National Team in 1999-2007 seasons.

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SERBIA

U20: Slovenia shocks Serbia, send them into relegation round - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U20 - Serbia U20 102:80

Slovenia caught the last train into U20 European Championship Qualifying Round. They stunned Serbia tonight to clinch the third position in preliminary round Group A. Marko Pajic (204-F-92) scored 24 points to pace Slovenia. In the meantime Serbia will team up with another European big basketball nations Lithuania and Croatia in the battle against relegation in classification round.
The teams traded baskets early in the encounter but Slovenia used a 12:0 run to take a 21:11 lead late in the first period. Slovenia arrived at the first break up by 9 points 23:14. Slovenia maintained the lead throughout the second period. They posted a 46:37 halftime lead. The teams forgot about defence in the high-flying third term. They teamed up for 64 points in the quarter. Serbia got within six points but Slovenia capped the term with a 16:2 rally to build an 84:63 lead with one quarter remaining. Slovenia quickly boosted the margin to 29 points and never looked back en route to the crucial win. Alen Omic (213-C-92) delivered 21 points and 8 rebounds for Slovenia. Edo Muric (202-F-91) added 19 points and 11 rebounds in the victory. Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 26 points for Serbia. Nemanja Jaramaz (201-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) had 18 points in the loss.

Slovenia U20: Marko Pajic 24, Alen Omic 21, Edo Muric 19+11 boards
Serbia U20: Nemanja Nedovic 26, Nemanja Jaramaz 18

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SLOVAKIA

SLOVENIA

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH KOREA

World Military Championship: USA edge South Korea in Rio de Janeiro - by Eurobasket News
USA - South Korea 76:68

The USA claimed the opening win at the World Military Championship in Brazil. They held off South Korea in Group A action. Matthew Matt McCraw (6'2''-G) stepped up with 25 points to lead the effort.
It was a close battle from start to finish. The United State got to a slightly better start. They registered an 18:14 lead after ten minutes. But South Korea quickly erased the deficit in the second period. The Asian team arrived at the interval up by 2 points 40:38. The Koreans boosted the lead in the third term. They posted a 57:53 advantage with ten minutes to go in regulation. The USA first knotted things up at 64. They went on a 12:4 run then and sealed the winning outcome at the end. John Frye (6'10''-C) and Jammar Major delivered 12 points apiece for the winners. Gwang Jae Lee replied with 19 points for South Korea. Sueng Ho Ki and Hoon Ham Ji netted 14 points each in the loss.

USA: Matt McCraw 25, John Frye 12, Jammar Major 12
South Korea: Gwang Jae Lee 19, Sueng Ho Ki 14, Hoon Ham Ji 14

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SPAIN

U20: Spain march past Austria in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Spain U20 - Austria U20 120:47

Spain eased to the third straight win at U20 European Championship. The hosts trounced Austrian counterparts to finish with a perfect 3-0 record in Group C. Austria on the other hand suffered the third loss in a row and stayed at the bottom of the ladder.
Spain led from start to finish. The hosts erupted for 27 points in the opening frame to build a 15-point lead. Spain unloaded 38 points in the second period to aggravate the damage. They established a 65:22 halftime lead. Spain refused to slow down after the big break. They went on a full steam in the third quarter scoring 31 points and building an unassailable 96:37 lead with one quarter remaining. Spain just cruised on in the fourth term and celebrated yet another impressive win at the end. Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) tallied 28 points and 7 rebounds in just 16 minutes on the court. Alberto Jodar (204-F/C-91) contributed 18 points for the winners. Carlos Novas (197-F-92) answered with 12 points for Austria. Anton Maresch (192-G-91) had 11 points in defeat.

Spain U20: Nikola Mirotic 28, Alberto Jodar 18, Joan Tomas (201-F-92) 13
Austria U20: Carlos Novas 12, Anton Maresch 11

Menorca keep Urko Otegui - by Eurobasket News
Menorca renewed the contract of Urko Otegui (203-F/C-81). The new deal is meant for two seasons. The 29-year-old centre joined Menorca in 2008. He averaged 3.3 points and 2.1 rebounds per game in ACB last season. Before joining Urko Otegui had stints with Leon Caja Espana, Alerta Cantabria Lobos, Valladolid and Askatuak.

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SRI LANKA

SWEDEN

SWITZERLAND

TUNISIA

TURKEY

U20: Greece edge Turkey for second win in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Greece U20 - Turkey U20 78:63

Greece registered the second win at the U20 European Championship. They rallied past Turkey to finish in the second place in Group C. Turkey also advanced into Qualifying Round despite the loss. They claimed the third position in the ladder. Dimitrios Katsivelis (194-G-91) stepped up with 23 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists to pace the Hellenes.
Greece stunned Turkey in the first frame. They went on a massive 27:8 run in the opening seven minutes. Greece posted a 29:14 lead ten minutes into the encounter. But Turkey struck back as they tipped off the second period with 12 points in a row. Greece reacted with a 10:0 run of their own. They quickly boosted the margin to 17 points. Dimitrios Katsivelis gave the Hellenes a 20-point lead midway through the third frame. Turkey stayed hopeful as they managed to narrow the deficit at 12 points with one quarter remaining 50:62. But Greece gave little chance for their opponents in the fourth stanza and rolled to a confident win at the end. Spyridon Motsenigos (194-G/F-92) nailed 12 points for Greece. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (206-F-92) added 11 points, 6 boards and 6 assists in the victory. Furkan Aldemir (207-F-91) replied with 19 points and 17 rebounds for Turkey. Sertac Sanli (212-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) finished with 10 points in the loss.

Greece U20: Dimitrios Katsivelis 23+10 boards, Spyridon Motsenigos 12, Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos 11
Turkey U20: Furkan Aldemir 19+17 boards, Sertac Sanli 10

Deron Williams officially inks deal with Besiktas - by Eurobasket News
It's official: New Jersey Nets point guard Deron Williams (191-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Illinois) will be playing in Turkey next season if there's an NBA lockout.

Williams tweeted the signature on his one-year contract with Besiktas late Friday night from his verified Twitter account.

'Just made it official, headed to Turkey ...signed with Besiktas & @BJK_Basketbol,' he wrote.

Williams' contract with Besiktas is worth $5 million, sources told ESPN.com's Chris Broussard.

Atlanta Hawks center Zaza Pachulia also has an agreement to play for the club, which briefly employed Allen Iverson last season.

Sources told ESPN.com's Marc Stein last week that Williams would not be required to report to the Turkish club before the end of August or early September and that his deal with them would include an immediate out that allows him to return to the NBA as soon as the work stoppage ends.

Williams has two years left on his contract with the Nets but is widely expected to opt out the final season, valued at nearly $18 million, to become a free agent in the summer of 2012.

Williams, 27, averaged 20.1 points and 10.3 assists for the Nets and the Utah Jazz last season.

Players under contract like Williams would typically need a letter of clearance from FIBA -- the sport's world governing body -- to play anywhere else. But the NBA Players Association has privately maintained for months that it intends to legally challenge any attempt by the NBA or FIBA to block a player such as Williams from playing elsewhere while the NBA has imposed a work stoppage.

'If they try to stop him,' one source said of Williams, 'the union will fight it.'

The bigger risk for Williams is injury-related, especially after he was plagued by a wrist injury throughout the second half of last season after the Nets acquired him from Utah on Feb. 24. The injury required surgery on Williams' right wrist after the season.

Courtesy of ESPN

Turkey U16 won the opener of the Baltic Cup 2011 in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16-Turkey U16 52:75

Turkey U16 won the opener of the Baltic Cup 2011 in Kaunas. The Turkish side upset the Latvian team 75:52 as the Coach Taner Gunay was satisfied with the first result.
Latvia won the opening tip 7:6, but Turkey grabbed 19:16 at the end of the frame. The latter increased to 26:21 after 25 minutes and enjoyed 32:28 halftime advantage. Moreover the reached double digits lead at 42:32 and had 54:42 after thirty minutes of the game. They added 21-10 on the last frame to seal the victory.
Cedi Osman (193-G-95) poured in 14 points for the winners and Ayberk Guleryuz (207-C/F-95) netted 10. Metecen Birsen and Mehmet Firat Alemdaroglu (197-F-96) delivered 9 points each in a win. Danis Geks asnwered with 13 points in the losing case, while Rolands Smits (95) posted 10.

Latvia U16: Danis Geks 13, Rolands Smits 10
Turkey U16: Cedi Osman 14, Ayberk Guleryuz 10, Metecen Birsen 9, Mehmet Firat Alemdaroglu 9

Antalya brings American Corey Fisher - by Eurobasket News
Antalya brings American Corey Fisher (185-G-88) for the next season. The Turkish squad announced of signing the Guard from Villanova.
In 2006-2007 Corey joined Bronx, NY / St. Patrick's (N.J.) and averaged 22.3 points, 6.1 rebounds and eight assists. In 2007-2008 he started for Villanova (NCAA) and debuted with 9.1ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 35.4%, 3Pts: 33.1%, FT: 74.7%. In his second year for Villanova (NCAA, starting five) his stats read 10.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 42.9%, 3Pts: 31.9%, FT: 77.8%. In 2009-2010 for Villanova he increased to 13.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 77.0%. In 2010-2011 for Villanova (NCAA, starting five) he recorded 15.6ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 41.9%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 78.6%. In 2011 he participated at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) and had 9.0ppg, 3.0rpg, Assists-2 (6.0apg).
Over the last few years Corey Fisher became Big East Regular Season Co-Runner-Up -10, All-Big East 3rd Team -10, All-Big East 2nd Team -11 and NABC Division I All-District 5 2nd Team -11.

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Zero Tolerance Results/ Medics upset Education - by David Edole
ST. THOMAS-- Agyei Gregory (94) saved his best for the last quarter, the 6-foot-1 guard erupted for 12 point to lead Aint Gonna See Us Fall (AGSUF) over Blazers, 51-48, in the deciding game of the Zero Tolerance 16-18 Basketball Summer League. Gregory finished with 24 points in completing the two games to none sweep. Deshawn Creque helped Gregory by putting up 12 points for AGSUF. The often spinning Sekayi Petersen led Blazers with 14 points, Xavier Richards added ten and Julius Jecoy chipped in with nine.
In 9-12 action, Come 2 Defend routed the undermanned Lil Lakers, 33-18. Lil Lakers, the top seed, played with only seven players as the rest of the team are presently playing in the Caribbean Little League World Series. Aniquah Swan led Come 2 Defend with 12 points and Stanley David chipped in with eight.
Antonio Warner led Lil Lakers with six points and Johnathan Eliasa added five. Game two in the best of three series will be on Sunday at 12:30 pm.
Staying in Zero Tolerance action, Devontee Anthony had ten points to lead Jah Youths over All Coast Ballers 29-21, in 13-15 finals play. Anthony's side kick, Dominick Purpura tallied only six points. Akiyo Neille led ACB with eight points and Arnold Guildare added six. Game two of this series is also scheduled for Sunday and will follow the 9-12 game.

Governmental and Industrial League Update
Some say free throws win championships and the Medics Steve Gardner (170-G-85, college: J.and Wales, FL) was up to the task. Gardner nailed seven of eight in the fourth period, including four straight as the Medics upset the three-time-defending-champions Education, 63-58, in game one of the Governmental and Industrial Coed Basketball League. Medics could not buy an outside shot for most of the game and by the end of three periods were down, 46-38. Then Gardner hit a three pointer that set off 25-point fourth period for a come from behind win.
Gardner finished with 27 points and Fitzroy 'Speedy Dunrod' tallied 19 and Brian Mills added 14.
Jamari Maduro had 19 points to lead Education and Rasheem Richards (183-G-80, college: York, NB) added 12.
With the win, the Medics are up one game to none and game 2 is set for Monday night at 7:15 pm. Medics also won game one in last years finals matchup and Education rebounded and won the next three.

Sunday July 17th
12:30 pm 9-12 Lil Lakers vs. Come 2 Defend 5 minutes after (Game 2)
13-15 Jah Youths vs. All Coast Ballers 5 minutes after (Game 2)

Monday July 18th
4:30pm 9-12 Lil Lakers vs. Come 2 Defend 5 (Game3) If Necessary
13-15 Jah Youths vs. All Coast Ballers 5 minutes after (Game 3) If Necessary
7:15 pm Medics vs. Education (Game 2)

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UKRAINE

UNITED KINGDOM

Women News

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AUSTRIA - Women

U20 Austria keeps U20 FYROM winless in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 FYR MACEDONIA - U20 AUSTRIA 59-76

Austria made first step forward to ninth place in Ohrid. They handed 76-59 loss to host of U20 EuroBasket, Division B. Today, Austria will meet Estonia and in case of victory Austria will end as No.9 at this event. FYROM stays winless as they had 0-5 in Preliminary Round. They will have a day-off and after that will meet Estonia. Julia Koppl (187-F/C-91) shined for the winners with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Lisa Zderadicka (166-PG-94) had 13 points and Milena Lazarevic (178-G/F-91) added one less. In defeat, Arin Agic (176-G-93) collected 18 points and 6 rebounds. Vanesa Vasilevska (180-F-92) had 13 pts and 9 rebs, and Andzelika Mitrasinovik (175-G-93) scored 10 points. Quarters: 7-17, 17-14, 20-18, 15-27. Championship continues today.

FYROM: Arin Agic 18+6 boards, Vanesa Vasilevska 13+9 boards, Andzelika Mitrasinovik 10
Austria: Julia Koppl 18+8 boards, Lisa Zderadicka 13, Milena Lazarevic 12

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BAHAMAS - Women

U17 Bahamas heads to Semifinals in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News
U17 Guatemala - U17 Bahamas 39-48

First win for Bahamas at the U17 CentroBasket in Gurabo. They handed 48-39 loss to Guatemala and it was enough for the Semifinals. There is three-way-tie on the second place in Group B with Bahamas, Guatemala and US Virgin Islands all having 1-2 record. In that circle, Bahamas has the best score and they ended as No.2 in this pool. Guatemala is No.3, while US Virgin Islands ended as the last ranked team in this group. Bahamas will meet Mexico in the Semifinals. On the other side, Guatemala will be transferred to Classification Games from 5th to 7th place. Taneka Kristine Sandiford stepped up for Bahamas in this game with 17 points and 14 rebounds. Kaylicia Laing secured a great help adding 13 pts and 11 rebs. In the loosing squad, Emily Rosales Quan replied with 18 points and 7 boards, while Angelica Maria Jose Cardenas Lantan added 12 pts and 5 rebs. Quarters: 18-17, 10-20, 4-6, 7-5.

Guatemala: Emily Rosales Quan 18+7 boards, Angelica Maria Jose Cardenas Lantan 12+5 boards
Bahamas: Taneka Kristine Sandiford 17+14 boards, Kaylicia Laing 13+11 boards

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BELARUS - Women

U20 Belarus keeps U20 Romania winless, 72-53 - by Eurobasket News
U20 BELARUS - U20 ROMANIA 72-53

Belarus registered second win in Group G. They cruised past Romania 72-53 joining Germany with 2-2 record. These two teams will fight for the second place and survival in Division A. Romania is already relegated as they have 0-4 at this moment. Maryia Filonchyk (189-C/F-92) shined for the winners with 23 points and 12 rebounds. Nadzeya Bohdan (187-C-93) had 18 points and 8 rebounds, while Aliaksandra Musatava (174-G-92) helped with 8 pts and 7 rebs. In the loosing squad, Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) collected 21 points and 7 rebs. Their second scorer was Gabriela Cursaru (169-PG-92) with 13 pts. Quarters: 21-19, 17-13, 17-16, 17-5. Belarus will meet Germany in the next game. It will be the crucial meeting for both teams. Romania will play against Slovakia.

Belarus: Maryia Filonchyk 23+12 boards, Nadzeya Bohdan 18+8 boards, Aliaksandra Musatava 8+7 boards
Romania: Cristina Bigica 21+7 boards, Gabriela Cursaru 13

U20 Belarus secures survival in Division A, U20 Germany faces with relegation - by Eurobasket News
U20 GERMANY - U20 BELARUS 65-83

Belarus secured survival in Division A. They cruised past Germany today 83-65 for 3-2 record in Group G. Germany was better than Belarus by two in the first meeting, so even before the last round Belarus secured the second place in this pool. Germany dropped to 2-3 and they will be relegated to Division B. Maryia Filonchyk (189-C/F-92) once again was the leading player in victory. She spent 35 minutes on the court collecting 22 points and 10 rebounds. Maryia Papova (186-F-94) had 18 points and 5 boards, and Maryna Ivashchanka (190-C-93) added 13 pts, plus 7 rebs. In Germany, Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92) collected 13 points and 15 rebs. Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) and Emina Karic (178-G/F-91) had 12 and points respectively. Quarters: 18-17, 16-18, 11-19, 20-29.

Germany: Sonja Greinacher 13+7 boards, Finja Schaake 12, Emina Karic 11
Belarus: Maryia Filonchyk 22+10 boards, Maryia Papova 18+5 boards, Maryna Ivashchanka 13+7 boards

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BELGIUM - Women

U20 Sweden cruises past U20 Belgium 74-47 in the Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
U20 SWEDEN - U20 BELGIUM 74-47

Sweden heads to Semifinals in Ohrid. They destroyed Belgium 74-47 and will meet Greece in the Semis. On the other side, Belgium will continue in Classification Round. They will try to win the fifth place in U20 EuroBasket, Division B. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) had no mercy for her rivals yesterday. She was the leading scorer in Sweden with 22 points. Salome Kabengano (177-G-92) and Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) helped with 13 points each. In Belgium, Noemie Mayombo (171-PG-91, agency: LBM Management) came up with 16 points and Nele Poffyn (173-G-91) stopped to 10 pts. Quarters: 22-17, 22-11, 13-6, 17-13. Championship continues today. Sweden will meet Greece, while Belgium will play against Hungary. After that Belgium will meet Israel or Bulgaria.

Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 22, Salome Kabengano 13, Binta Drammeh 13
Belgium: Noemie Mayombo 16, Nele Poffyn 10

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BULGARIA - Women

U20 Czech Republic stays perfect, heads to Semifinals in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 CZECH REPUBLIC - U20 BULGARIA 67-42

Czech Republic registered sixth straight win in Ohrid. This time it was a Quarterfinals game against Bulgaria and Czech Republic celebrated 67-42 easy win. They advanced to Semis, where they will meet Portugal. The winner will advance to Big Finals and will earn a promotion for Division A. Bulgaria is transferred to Classification Round. They will try to end as No.5 at this event. Petra Zaplatova (175-G/F-91) came up with 11 points in victory and Andrea Sladkova (187-C/F-91) had 10. Barbora Kasparkova (182-F/C-92) followed them with 9 points. In Bulgaria, Tsvetromira Sharenkapova (182-F-91) collected 15 points and 6 rebounds. Their second scorer was Stela Boneva (190-C-93) (5 rebs) with just 6 points. Quarters: 25-12, 13-6, 20-10, 9-14.

Czech Republic: Petra Zaplatova 11, Andrea Sladkova 10, Barbora Kasparkova 9
Bulgaria: Tsvetromira Sharenkapova 15+6 boards, Stela Boneva 6+5 boards

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CENTROBASKET U17 - Women

Semifinals are set in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News
GROUP A

U17 Mexico - U17 Dominican Republic 70-56
Mexico won the first place in Group A. They handed 70-56 loss to Dominican Republic ending the Preliminary Round in Gurabo with perfect 2-0. Mexico will meet Bahamas in the Semifinals. On the other side, Dominican Republic also advanced to Semis, but as No.2 of this pool (1-1 record). Their rival will be the host of U17 CentroBasket - Puerto Rico. Ana Karen Bernal Armendariz was the leading player in victory with double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. Narda Valeria Salceda Jimenez had 14 pts, 5 rebounds and 9 assists, while Nohemi Lopez Arguello also helped Mexico with 14 points. In defeat, Cheisy Carolay Hernandez top-scored with 17 pts. Yamel Vanessa Abreu Alvarez had 14 points and 6 rebounds, and Frabel Feliz Rodriguez added 13 points, plus 11 boards. Quarters: 24-11, 12-9, 17-13, 17-23.

Mexico: Ana Karen Bernal Armendariz 14+11 boards, Narda Valeria Salceda Jimenez 14+5 boards+9 as, Nohemi Lopez Arguello 14
Dominican Republic: Cheisy Carolay Hernandez 17, Yamel Vanessa Abreu Alvarez 14+6 boards, Frabel Feliz Rodriguez 13+11 boards

GROUP B

U17 Puerto Rico - U17 US Virgin Islands 96-40
Puerto Rico won the first place in Preliminary Group B in Gurabo. The host of U17 CentroBasket ended this phase with perfect 3-0 record. Of course, Puerto Rico advanced to Semifinals and they will meet Dominican Republic. On the other side, US Virgin Islands dropped to 1-2 and finished as the last ranked of this group. They failed to reach the next stage and will be transferred to Classification Games from 5th to 7th place. Diamalises Rivera Barcelo shined for the winners with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Aleana Lyd Leon Garcia scored 13 points and Claudia Alejandra Ortiz Ledesma added one less than her. In US Virgin Islands, Edidiong Beulah Utibe collected 16 points and 16 boards. Their second scorer was Shaquana Quanae Iona Foy with just 8 pts. Quarters: 25-10, 25-13, 18-8, 28-9.

Puerto Rico: Diamalises Rivera Barcelo 22+6 boards, Aleana Lyd Leon Garcia 13, Claudia Alejandra Ortiz Ledesma 12
US Virgin Islands: Edidiong Beulah Utibe 16+16, Shaquana Quanae Iona Foy 8

U17 Guatemala - U17 Bahamas 39-48
First win for Bahamas at the U17 CentroBasket in Gurabo. They handed 48-39 loss to Guatemala and it was enough for the Semifinals. There is three-way-tie on the second place in Group B with Bahamas, Guatemala and US Virgin Islands all having 1-2 record. In that circle, Bahamas has the best score and they ended as No.2 in this pool. Guatemala is No.3, while US Virgin Islands ended as the last ranked team in this group. Bahamas will meet Mexico in the Semifinals. On the other side, Guatemala will be transferred to Classification Games from 5th to 7th place. Taneka Kristine Sandiford stepped up for Bahamas in this game with 17 points and 14 rebounds. Kaylicia Laing secured a great help adding 13 pts and 11 rebs. In the loosing squad, Emily Rosales Quan replied with 18 points and 7 boards, while Angelica Maria Jose Cardenas Lantan added 12 pts and 5 rebs. Quarters: 18-17, 10-20, 4-6, 7-5.

Guatemala: Emily Rosales Quan 18+7 boards, Angelica Maria Jose Cardenas Lantan 12+5 boards
Bahamas: Taneka Kristine Sandiford 17+14 boards, Kaylicia Laing 13+11 boards

Standing

Standings

Group A
1. Mexico		2-0
2. Dominican R.		1-1
3. Cayman Isl.		0-2
Group B
1. P.Rico		3-0
2. Bahamas		1-2
3. Guatemala		1-2
4. US Virg.Isl		1-2

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CROATIA - Women

Croatia U16 is winless in the friendlies - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U16 is winless in the friendlies of the International Tournament with 4 teams participating. In Day 1 Russia U16 needed overtime to start the campaign with the win. They won over Croatia 76:72 for the first victory.
France reached the second straight win beating Croatia 67:37 in Day 2. The favorites started well and never looked behind in the game.
Turkey clinched the third place due to the win over Croatia in the last day 79:53. Turkey started with 13-12 and increased to 36:26 at the halftime. Moreover they doubled the lead to 58:38 after three quarters and won the game by 26 points. Hula Coklar stepped up with 28 points and 5 rebounds for the winners, while Ezgi Manlaci netted 13. Basak Altunbey delivered 10 and Busra Akbas notched 9.
Croatia U16 will participate in Division A to be played in Cagliari (Italy) from 11 - 21 August, 2011. The 16 participants were divided into 4 groups with 4 teams in each.

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Women

U17 Mexico wins Group A in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News
U17 Mexico - U17 Dominican Republic 70-56

Mexico won the first place in Group A. They handed 70-56 loss to Dominican Republic ending the Preliminary Round in Gurabo with perfect 2-0. Mexico will meet Bahamas in the Semifinals. On the other side, Dominican Republic also advanced to Semis, but as No.2 of this pool (1-1 record). Their rival will be the host of U17 CentroBasket - Puerto Rico. Ana Karen Bernal Armendariz was the leading player in victory with double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. Narda Valeria Salceda Jimenez had 14 pts, 5 rebounds and 9 assists, while Nohemi Lopez Arguello also helped Mexico with 14 points. In defeat, Cheisy Carolay Hernandez top-scored with 17 pts. Yamel Vanessa Abreu Alvarez had 14 points and 6 rebounds, and Frabel Feliz Rodriguez added 13 points, plus 11 boards. Quarters: 24-11, 12-9, 17-13, 17-23.

Mexico: Ana Karen Bernal Armendariz 14+11 boards, Narda Valeria Salceda Jimenez 14+5 boards+9 as, Nohemi Lopez Arguello 14
Dominican Republic: Cheisy Carolay Hernandez 17, Yamel Vanessa Abreu Alvarez 14+6 boards, Frabel Feliz Rodriguez 13+11 boards

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ESTONIA - Women

Lithuania U16 wins the Baltic Cup opener - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16-Estonia U16 66:60

Lithuania wins the Baltic Cup opener over the Estonian team. The third period was decisive in the game to bring 66:60 in the first game.
Both teams started started strong and nailed 15 points apiece in the opening period. The guests even produced 17-15 in the second period for 2-points halftime advantage. In the third quarter Kaunas saw the masterpiece of the local team that needed 23-12 for the lead. Estonia bounced back with 16-13 but it was not enough to win the game.
Dalia Belickaite paced all the winners with 16 points and Justina Kraujunaite nailed 14. Austeja Sirsinaityte notched 8, while Aurelija Putramentaite and Ruta Savickaite added 6 apiece. Trine Kasemagi (189-C-95) and Kristi Tamp (170-G-95) replied with 16 points for Estonia, while Tatjana Razguljajeva (172-G-96) delivered 15.

Lithuania U16: Dalia Belickaite 16, Justina Kraujunaite 14, Austeja Sirsinaityte 8, Aurelija Putramentaite 6, Ruta Savickaite 6
Estonia U16: Trine Kasemagi 16, Kristi Tamp 16, Tatjana Razguljajeva 15, Jane Svilberg (178-F/C-95) 12

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20 - Women

Division A: Russia and Spain to fight for the Gold again - by Eurobasket News
Semifinals

Spain - Serbia 75-38
For the second straight time Spain will play in the Finals of U20 EuroBasket. Once again their rival will be Russia, who beat Spain last year to win the Gold. Spain destroyed Serbia this evening 75-38 to reach the Big Final. The host of this event will meet Poland in the game for third place. Spain was a way better team from the beginning. They made 16-6 lead in the first ten minutes and continued with 24-14 in Q2. Spain totally took control ion Serbia in third quarter and stopped them to just 4 points, while they drained 21 on the other side. The game winner was already decided and last ten minutes were just the formality (14-14). Vega Gimeno Martinez (183-F-91, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Robert Morris) was the leading scorer in Spain with 16 points. Leonor Rodriguez Manso (181-G-91) had 11 points and 6 rebounds, and Queralt Casas (180-G-92) added 10 pts, plus 11 boards. In Serbia, Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) collected 14 points and 6 rebounds. Tijana Ajdukovic (197-C-91) had 12 points and 11 boards in this meeting. All other players scored 12 points in total and their valuation was in minus, mostly. Sunday is the last day of the championship.

Russia - Poland 68-52
Russia will have a chance to defend their title from the last year. They cruised past Poland 68-52 in the Quarterfinals of U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. Russia will fight for the Gold against Spain. These two teams met in the 2010 Finals as well. On the other side, Poland will play against Serbia in the game for third place. Anastasiya Shilova (185-F/G-91) exploded with 23 points and 10 rebounds in this meeting. She reached valuation 26 and was the MVP. Veronika Dorosheva (193-F-91) had 13 points and 7 boards, while Yana Panevina (168-G-91) helped with 9 points, 5 rebs and 7 assists. In the loosing squad, Malgorzata Misiuk (184-F-91) was better than the others with 16 points. Their second scorer was Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) with 10 points. Quarters: 17-11, 11-21, 18-6, 22-14. Sunday is the last day of the competition.

Places 5-8

United Kingdom - France 39-55
France made a first step forward to fifth place in Novi Sad. They handed 55-39 loss to United Kingdom today thanks to great second half. In order to grab this spot France will have to beat Ukraine tomorrow. On the other side, UK will meet Italy in the battle for the seventh place. Linda Boubsaa (165-G-91) came up with 17 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Clementine Samson (181-G/F-91) had 12 points and Touty Gandega (170-G-91) added 11 points, plus 5 boards. In defeat, Temitope Fagbenle (191-F-92) collected 15 points and 6 rebs. Ella Clark (190-F-92) stopped to 10 points in this meeting. Quarters: 8-9, 13-7, 8-16, 10-23. Sunday is the last day of the championship.

Ukraine - Italy 86-51
It was the first game of the Classification Round from 5th to 8th place. Ukraine successfully passed they first obstacle as they blasted Italy 86-51. Tomorrow, Ukraine will meet France in the battle for fifth place. Italy will play against United Kingdom in the game for position No.7. Alina Iagupova (181-G-92, agency: LBM Management) almost had triple-double for Ukraine today: 24 points, 10 assists and 9 rebounds. Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91, agency: LBM Management) also was great as she added 22 points and 15 rebounds. Third scorer in victory was Olesia Malashenko (189-F-91, agency: LBM Management) with 18 points and she also had 8 boards, plus 5 assists beside that. In Italy, Alessandra Tava (184-F/C-91) top-scored with 14 points. Laura Spreafico (182-F/G-91) (5 rebs) had 10 and Valeria De Pretto (182-F-91) (9 rebs) stopped to 8 points in this meeting. Quarters: 25-11, 22-14, 20-10, 19-16.

Places 9-10

Holland - Turkey 58-75
Turkey finished U20 EuroBasket with two straight wins. They outplayed Holland today 75-58 to end as No.9 at this event. On the other side, Holland finished as tenth ranked team in Novi Sad. Turkey shined in the first and last quarter, what was enough for comfortable victory. Their leading scorers were Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) (7 rebs) and Ozge Yavas (174-G-91) with 15 points each. Pinar Demirok (180-F-91) followed them with one point less, while Esra Ural (198-C-91) added 10 points and 14 rebs. In Holland, Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) shined with 15 points and 6 boards. Their second scorer was Zera Butter (179-G-92) with 13 points. Quarters: 10-21, 11-11, 16-11, 21-32. Both teams will also compete in Division A next year.

Places 11-12

Lithuania - Latvia 76-67
Lithuania finished as No.11 of the U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. They outplayed Latvia today 76-67 to win this spot. Latvia ended as the twelfth ranked team at this event. Lithuania had five players with double-digits in scoring today. Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) was the leading one with 16 points and she also grabbed 9 rebounds beside that. Inesa Visgaudaite (172-PG-91) had 15 pts, while Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) (5 as) and Gintare Mazionyte (186-F/C-91) added 14 points and 6 rebounds each. In Latvia, Kristine Brance (176-G/F-91) delivered 15 points. Liga Surkusa (194-C-91) had 11 points and 7 rebs. Quarters: 21-17, 17-20, 17-15, 21-15. Both teams will play next year in Division A as well.

Places 13-16

Germany - Belarus 65-83
Belarus secured survival in Division A. They cruised past Germany today 83-65 for 3-2 record in Group G. Germany was better than Belarus by two in the first meeting, so even before the last round Belarus secured the second place in this pool. Germany dropped to 2-3 and they will be relegated to Division B. Maryia Filonchyk (189-C/F-92) once again was the leading player in victory. She spent 35 minutes on the court collecting 22 points and 10 rebounds. Maryia Papova (186-F-94) had 18 points and 5 boards, and Maryna Ivashchanka (190-C-93) added 13 pts, plus 7 rebs. In Germany, Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92) collected 13 points and 15 rebs. Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) and Emina Karic (178-G/F-91) had 12 and points respectively. Quarters: 18-17, 16-18, 11-19, 20-29.

Romania - Slovakia 50-65
Slovakia registered fifth straight win in Group G. They were too strong for Romania once again 65-50 straying on top of this pool with 5-0. Of course, Slovakia already secured the first place in Group G and survival in Division A. Romania will face with relegation. They have poor 0-5. Angelika Slamova (172-G-94) and Dominika Baburova (183-F-91) posted 12 points each for the winners. Sabina Oroszova (187-F-93) followed with 10 points and 6 rebounds. In Romania, Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) collected 19 points and 5 rebs. Gabriela Cursaru (169-PG-92) had 14 pts and was the last one with double-digits in scoring. Quarters: 20-15, 10-16, 9-18, 11-16.

Division A: Russia, Poland, Spain and Serbia advance to Semifinals - by Eurobasket News
Quarterfinals

Spain - Ukraine 67-57
Spain outplayed Ukraine 67-57 in the Quarterfinals of U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. It means that Spain advanced to Semis, where they will meet Serbia. On the other side, Ukraine will be transferred to Classification Round. They will fight for the fifth place at this event. Queralt Casas (180-G-92) stepped up for Spain with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Vanessa Ble (190-C/F-91) had double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Leonor Rodriguez Manso (181-G-91) added 12 pts, 5 rebs and 6 assists. In Ukraine, Olesia Malashenko (189-F-91, agency: LBM Management) was better than the others with 17 points and 7 rebounds. Krystyna Matsko (182-F-91) and Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91, agency: LBM Management) (7 rebs) followed with 12 and 11 points respectively. Ukraine opened the game better as they made 9-13 lead in the first ten minutes. Olesia Malashenko and her teammates jumped to plus 7 at the halftime and were looking good. However, Spain drastically improved after the breather and they closed the gap to 3 pts before the last ten minutes. They stopped Ukraine to 11 pts in Q4, while scoring 24 on the other side, what at the end was enough for comfortable victory in the Quarterfinals. Championship continues on Saturday.

Serbia - Italy 60-55
Serbia advanced to Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. The host of this event edged Italy 60-55 in the Qfinals. Marina Markovic (181-G/F-91) stepped up for the hosts with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) had 12 points and 9 boards, while Tijana Ajdukovic (197-C-91) added 10 points and 9 rebs. In Italy, Federica Tognalini (183-F-91) top-scored with 15 points. Alessandra Tava (184-F/C-91) (7 rebs) and Federica Nannucci (170-G-91) (5 rebs) netted 9 points each. Serbia made 17-13 lead in the first ten minutes and extended it to five until the halftime (32-27). Marina Markovic and her teammates shined after the breather and grabbed double-digit lead against their rival. With ten minutes to go it was 49-38 for the hosts. However, Italy didnt give up and they closed the gap to 57-55 with 12 seconds remaining in the game. Alessandra Tava was the one who score a triple for Italy and brought them so close. Colic scored one free throw for Serbia after that (58-55) and Italy had the possession. Federica Tognalini tried for 3 and she missed. Tijana Ajdukovic made a lay-up on the other side and sealed a victory for Serbia. Serbia will meet Spain in the Semifinals. Italy is transferred to Classification Round. They will fight for the fifth place.

Russia - United Kingdom 68-37
Russia exploded in the EuroBasket Quarterfinals. They destroyed United Kingdom 68-37 in Novi Sad today. Poland was too strong for France 62-47, so Russia and Poland will meet each other in the Semis. Russia took control on UK from the very beginning. They made double-digit lead already in the first quarter, 20-8. UK slightly improved after that, but was not able to avoid 15-point deficit at the HT. Nothing has changed after the breather as Russia won Q3 with 13-6 and question about the winner was resolved. Last quarter also belonged to Russia 19-10 for the final 68-37 blowout. Alexandra Tarasova (194-C-91) (6 rebs) and Viktoria Medvedeva (185-C/F-91) scored 13 points each for the winners. Veronika Dorosheva (193-F-91) had 12 points and 8 boards, while Anastasiya Shilova (185-F/G-91) added 10 pts and 7 rebs. In the loosing squad Ella Clark (190-F-92) (5 rebs) and Jessica Hurd (182-F-92) netted 9 pts each. Deanne Hayward (170-G-91) followed them with 2 points less. Semifinals will be played on Saturday. UK will be transferred to Classification Games from 5th to 8th place.

France - Poland 47-62
Poland advanced to Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. They handed 62-47 loss to France in the QFinals. Also today, Russia was too strong for UK 68-37, so Poland already got their rival in the Semis. On the other side, France will be transferred to Classification Round. They will fight for the fifth place at this event. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) shined for the winners with 19 points. Their second scorer was Paulina Kuras (170-G-92) with 10 pts and Malgorzata Misiuk (184-F-91) followed her with 8 points, plus 6 boards. In France, Clementine Samson (181-G/F-91) delivered 16 points. Touty Gandega (170-G-91) (7 rebs) and Hhadydia Minte (187-F-91) (14 rebs) had 11 and 8 points respectively. Third period was the crucial one in this game as Poland won it 9-19. Quarters: 15-15, 8-12, 9-19, 15-16. Championship continues on Saturday.

Places 9-12

Latvia - Turkey 51-64
Turkey celebrated 64-51 win against Latvia on Friday evening. It is the first step forward to ninth place at the U20 EuroBasket. If Turkey wants to win this spot, they will have to beat Holland today. On the other side, Latvia will meet Lithuania in Baltic derby. The winner will end as No.11. Ozge Yavas (174-G-91) shined in Turkey with 23 points. She made four triples in this meeting. Pinar Demirok (180-F-91) (5 rebs) and Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) netted 12 points each. In the loosing squad, Sabine Niedola (184-F-91) collected 12 points and 7 rebs. Liga Surkusa (194-C-91) followed with 11 pts and 8 rebs. Quarters: 12-21, 18-17, 13-9, 8-17. Today will be the last day of the championship for both teams.

Lithuania - Holland 56-68
Holland made first step forward to ninth place in Novi Sad. They met Lithuania yesterday and handed them 68-56 loss. Turkey was better than Latvia, so Holland will meet Turkey in the battle for position nine. On the other side, Lithuania and Latvia will meet in a game for the 11th place. Chatilla Van Grinsven (187-F-89) was a key player in victory with 20 points and 14 rebounds. She reached valuation 25 and was the MVP of this meeting. Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) had 16 pts and 5 boards, while Jamailah Adams (180-G/F-93) helped with 11 pts. In defeat, Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) delivered 16 points. Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) had double-double of 10 points and 12 boards, while Monika Grigalauskyte added 8 pts and 11 rebs. Quarters: 14-14, 19-22, 9-11, 14-21.

Places 13-16

Slovakia - Germany 58-41
Slovakia registered fourth straight win in Group G. They outplayed Germany once again 58-41 for 4-0 record this pool. It means that Slovakia already secured survival in Division A. On the other side, Germany dropped to 2-2. They will meet Belarus today in do-or-die. Barbora Balintova (173-G-94) came up with 18 points for the winners. Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) secured a nice help with 13 points and 7 rebs, while third scorer in this victory was Dominika Baburova (183-F-91) with 8 pts. In Germany, Svenja Brunckhorst (178-G-91) collected 14 points and 6 rebs. Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92) stopped to 8 pts and 6 boards this time. Quarters: 12-11, 11-2, 12-12, 23-16. Slovakia will play against Romania in the next meeting.

Belarus - Romania 72-53
Belarus registered second win in Group G. They cruised past Romania 72-53 joining Germany with 2-2 record. These two teams will fight for the second place and survival in Division A. Romania is already relegated as they have 0-4 at this moment. Maryia Filonchyk (189-C/F-92) shined for the winners with 23 points and 12 rebounds. Nadzeya Bohdan (187-C-93) had 18 points and 8 rebounds, while Aliaksandra Musatava (174-G-92) helped with 8 pts and 7 rebs. In the loosing squad, Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) collected 21 points and 7 rebs. Their second scorer was Gabriela Cursaru (169-PG-92) with 13 pts. Quarters: 21-19, 17-13, 17-16, 17-5. Belarus will meet Germany in the next game. It will be the crucial meeting for both teams. Romania will play against Slovakia.

Division B: Exciting Quarterfinals in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
Portugal - Israel 60-54
Portugal advanced to Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket, Division B. They eliminated Israel 60-54 in the QFinals. In order to reach the Big Final, Portugal will have to beat Czech Republic. Also the finalists will earn a promotion to Division A. Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) was the leading scorer in victory with 16 points. Daniela Domingues (176-F/G-92) had double-double of 12 points and 16 rebounds, while Luiana Livulo (187-C-91) added 12 pts and 8 rebs. In defeat, Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) netted 16 pts and grabbed 8 boards. Daniel Hagag (165-PG-92) was the last one with double-digits, 10 points. Quarters: 14-13, 12-15, 18-10, 16-16. Israel will continue in Classification Round. They will fight for the fifth place in Ohrid.

Greece - Hungary 55-48
Greece will play in the Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket, Division B. Greece handed 55-48 loss to Hungary yesterday and will meet Sweden in the Semis. Sweden eliminated Belgium 74-47 in the QFinals. Hungary will be transferred to Classification Round. They will fight for the fifth place in Ohrid. Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) exploded with 22 points and 7 rebounds in this game. She made 6 of 9 attempts from behind the arc. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) had 13 points and 9 rebounds, and Georgia Kantara (176-G-93) netted 8 pts. Anna Mansare (188-F/C-92) collected 16 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Reka Balint (182-F-91) stopped to 11 pts and 9 boards this time. Quarters: 20-14, 6-14, 15-7, 14-13. Championship continues today.

Sweden - Belgium 74-47
Sweden heads to Semifinals in Ohrid. They destroyed Belgium 74-47 and will meet Greece in the Semis. On the other side, Belgium will continue in Classification Round. They will try to win the fifth place in U20 EuroBasket, Division B. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) had no mercy for her rivals yesterday. She was the leading scorer in Sweden with 22 points. Salome Kabengano (177-G-92) and Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) helped with 13 points each. In Belgium, Noemie Mayombo (171-PG-91, agency: LBM Management) came up with 16 points and Nele Poffyn (173-G-91) stopped to 10 pts. Quarters: 22-17, 22-11, 13-6, 17-13. Championship continues today. Sweden will meet Greece, while Belgium will play against Hungary. After that Belgium will meet Israel or Bulgaria.

Czech Republic - Bulgaria 67-42
Czech Republic registered sixth straight win in Ohrid. This time it was a Quarterfinals game against Bulgaria and Czech Republic celebrated 67-42 easy win. They advanced to Semis, where they will meet Portugal. The winner will advance to Big Finals and will earn a promotion for Division A. Bulgaria is transferred to Classification Round. They will try to end as No.5 at this event. Petra Zaplatova (175-G/F-91) came up with 11 points in victory and Andrea Sladkova (187-C/F-91) had 10. Barbora Kasparkova (182-F/C-92) followed them with 9 points. In Bulgaria, Tsvetromira Sharenkapova (182-F-91) collected 15 points and 6 rebounds. Their second scorer was Stela Boneva (190-C-93) (5 rebs) with just 6 points. Quarters: 25-12, 13-6, 20-10, 9-14.

Places 9-11

FYR Macedonia - Austria 59-76
Austria made first step forward to ninth place in Ohrid. They handed 76-59 loss to host of U20 EuroBasket, Division B. Today, Austria will meet Estonia and in case of victory Austria will end as No.9 at this event. FYROM stays winless as they had 0-5 in Preliminary Round. They will have a day-off and after that will meet Estonia. Julia Koppl (187-F/C-91) shined for the winners with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Lisa Zderadicka (166-PG-94) had 13 points and Milena Lazarevic (178-G/F-91) added one less. In defeat, Arin Agic (176-G-93) collected 18 points and 6 rebounds. Vanesa Vasilevska (180-F-92) had 13 pts and 9 rebs, and Andzelika Mitrasinovik (175-G-93) scored 10 points. Quarters: 7-17, 17-14, 20-18, 15-27. Championship continues today.

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FINLAND - Women

Finland U16 edged Latvia in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16-Finland U16 64:69

Finland edged Latvia in Kaunas in the start of the Baltic Cup 2011. The teams exchanged the victories in the four quarters but Finland won the game 69:64.
Finland opened the game with 26:14 lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. Latvia meanwhile bounced back with 18-12 to cut it to 6 points at the halftime. Again the squads exchanged victories in the second half and it brought Finland the necessary win. They had 65:50 with 5 minutes to go, but Latvia reduced to 69:64.
Vilma Purhonen (183-F-95) stepped up with 17 points and Veera Valimaa (182-F-96) netted 12. Anniina Aijanen (187-F/C-95) ended up with 10 points, while Petra Naponen scored 8. Kitija Laksa finished the game with 13 points in the losing case and Marta Miscenko (185-C-95) had 11.

Latvia U16: Kitija Laksa 13, Marta Miscenko 11, Kate Kreslina 10
Finland U16: Vilma Purhonen 17, Veera Valimaa 12, Anniina Aijanen 10, Petra Naponen 8

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FRANCE - Women

U20 France explodes in the second half to beat U20 UK 55-39 - by Eurobasket News
U20 UNITED KINGDOM - U20 FRANCE 39-55

France made a first step forward to fifth place in Novi Sad. They handed 55-39 loss to United Kingdom today thanks to great second half. In order to grab this spot France will have to beat Ukraine tomorrow. On the other side, UK will meet Italy in the battle for the seventh place. Linda Boubsaa (165-G-91) came up with 17 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Clementine Samson (181-G/F-91) had 12 points and Touty Gandega (170-G-91) added 11 points, plus 5 boards. In defeat, Temitope Fagbenle (191-F-92) collected 15 points and 6 rebs. Ella Clark (190-F-92) stopped to 10 points in this meeting. Quarters: 8-9, 13-7, 8-16, 10-23. Sunday is the last day of the championship.

United Kingdom: Temitope Fagbenle 15+6 boards, Ella Clark 10
France: Linda Boubsaa 17+6 boards, Clementine Samson 12, Touty Gandega 11+5 boards

France U16 started preparation for Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
France U16 started preparation for Cagliari for the U16 European Championship that starts in August 11th. Recently they participated at the International Tournament with 4 teams. In Day 1 France U16 edged Turkey U16 59:45. The latter grabbed 21-14 after the opening period, but could not keep the score for good. France bounced back with 17-6 in the second frame to take the lead. Moreover the winners added 14-9 in the third and the last quarters to seal the victory. Ezgi Manlaci paced the Turks side with 13 points and Sehernaz Cidal collected 7 points and 8 boards.
France reached the second straight win beating Croatia 67:37 in Day 2. The favorites started well and never looked behind in the game.
Russia won the tournament due to 45:43 victory over France. It was a tough game and one of the most interesting in the tournament. Both teams paid too much attention to defense and as a result scored not so many points. Russia remained undefeated after three games.

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FYR MACEDONIA - Women

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GERMANY - Women

U20 Slovakia secures survival in Division A - by Eurobasket News
U20 SLOVAKIA - U20 GERMANY 58-41

Slovakia registered fourth straight win in Group G. They outplayed Germany once again 58-41 for 4-0 record this pool. It means that Slovakia already secured survival in Division A. On the other side, Germany dropped to 2-2. They will meet Belarus today in do-or-die. Barbora Balintova (173-G-94) came up with 18 points for the winners. Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) secured a nice help with 13 points and 7 rebs, while third scorer in this victory was Dominika Baburova (183-F-91) with 8 pts. In Germany, Svenja Brunckhorst (178-G-91) collected 14 points and 6 rebs. Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92) stopped to 8 pts and 6 boards this time. Quarters: 12-11, 11-2, 12-12, 23-16. Slovakia will play against Romania in the next meeting.

Slovakia: Barbora Balintova 18, Marta Palenikova 13+7 boards, Dominika Baburova 8
Germany: Svenja Brunckhorst 14+6 boards, Sonja Greinacher 8+6 boards

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GREECE - Women

U20 EuroBasket, Division B: Greece reaches Semifinals - by Eurobasket News
U20 GREECE - U20 HUNGARY 55-48

Greece will play in the Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket, Division B. Greece handed 55-48 loss to Hungary yesterday and will meet Sweden in the Semis. Sweden eliminated Belgium 74-47 in the QFinals. Hungary will be transferred to Classification Round. They will fight for the fifth place in Ohrid. Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) exploded with 22 points and 7 rebounds in this game. She made 6 of 9 attempts from behind the arc. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) had 13 points and 9 rebounds, and Georgia Kantara (176-G-93) netted 8 pts. Anna Mansare (188-F/C-92) collected 16 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Reka Balint (182-F-91) stopped to 11 pts and 9 boards this time. Quarters: 20-14, 6-14, 15-7, 14-13. Championship continues today.

Greece: Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 22+7 boards, Artemis Spanou 13+9 boards, Georgia Kantara 8
Hungary: Anna Mansare 16+8 boards, Reka Balint 11+9 boards

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GUATEMALA - Women

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HOLLAND - Women

U20 Holland hands 68-56 to U20 Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
U20 LITHUANIA - U20 HOLLAND 56-68

Holland made first step forward to ninth place in Novi Sad. They met Lithuania yesterday and handed them 68-56 loss. Turkey was better than Latvia, so Holland will meet Turkey in the battle for position nine. On the other side, Lithuania and Latvia will meet in a game for the 11th place. Chatilla Van Grinsven (187-F-89) was a key player in victory with 20 points and 14 rebounds. She reached valuation 25 and was the MVP of this meeting. Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) had 16 pts and 5 boards, while Jamailah Adams (180-G/F-93) helped with 11 pts. In defeat, Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) delivered 16 points. Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) had double-double of 10 points and 12 boards, while Monika Grigalauskyte added 8 pts and 11 rebs. Quarters: 14-14, 19-22, 9-11, 14-21.

Lithuania: Santa Okockyte 16, Laura Svaryte 10+12 boards
Holland: Chatilla Van Grinsven 20+14 boards, Maxime Essenstam 16+5 boards, Jamailah Adams 11

U20 Turkey wins ninth place in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News
U20 HOLLAND - U20 TURKEY 58-75

Turkey finished U20 EuroBasket with two straight wins. They outplayed Holland today 75-58 to end as No.9 at this event. On the other side, Holland finished as tenth ranked team in Novi Sad. Turkey shined in the first and last quarter, what was enough for comfortable victory. Their leading scorers were Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) (7 rebs) and Ozge Yavas (174-G-91) with 15 points each. Pinar Demirok (180-F-91) followed them with one point less, while Esra Ural (198-C-91) added 10 points and 14 rebs. In Holland, Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) shined with 15 points and 6 boards. Their second scorer was Zera Butter (179-G-92) with 13 points. Quarters: 10-21, 11-11, 16-11, 21-32. Both teams will also compete in Division A next year.

Holland: Maxime Essenstam 15+6 boards, Zera Butter 13
Turkey: Ayse Cora 15+7 boards, Ozge Yavas 15, Pinar Demirok 14, Esra Ural 10+14 boards

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HUNGARY - Women

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ISRAEL - Women

U20 Portugal heads to Semifinals in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 PORTUGAL - U20 ISRAEL 60-54

Portugal advanced to Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket, Division B. They eliminated Israel 60-54 in the QFinals. In order to reach the Big Final, Portugal will have to beat Czech Republic. Also the finalists will earn a promotion to Division A. Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) was the leading scorer in victory with 16 points. Daniela Domingues (176-F/G-92) had double-double of 12 points and 16 rebounds, while Luiana Livulo (187-C-91) added 12 pts and 8 rebs. In defeat, Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) netted 16 pts and grabbed 8 boards. Daniel Hagag (165-PG-92) was the last one with double-digits, 10 points. Quarters: 14-13, 12-15, 18-10, 16-16. Israel will continue in Classification Round. They will fight for the fifth place in Ohrid.

Portugal: Michelle Brandao 16, Daniela Domingues 12+16 boards, Luiana Livulo 12+8 boards
Israel: Hadar Gutin 16+8 boards, Daniel Hagag 10

RAMAT CHEN SIGN ERLANA LARKINS ! - by Gil Goshen

Erlana Larkins sign with Maccabbi Ramat Chen and she will join to
Danielle Robinson. Ramat Chen organization is well known with their solid basketball achievements ( always reached to the final four , won the cup 2008 )
and for their team great conditions.
Coach Shiki Falach will continue coaching the team.

2007-2008: N.Carolina (NCAA, starting five): 35 games: 13.5ppg, 9.5rpg, 3.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 52.7%, FT: 60.1%
2009-2010: Mersin BSH Bld (Turkey-TBBL, starting five)
2010-2011: Mersin BSH Bld (Turkey-TKBL, starting five): 22 games: 11.9ppg, Reb-4 (10.2rpg), 2.8apg, Steals-5 (2.1spg), FGP: 53.2%, FT: 74.5%
2011: Phoenix Mercury (WNBA)
------------------------------------ Erlana Larkins (185-F-86, college: N.Carolina)

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ITALY - Women

U20 Serbia goes to Semifinals in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News
U20 Serbia - U20 Italy 60-55

Serbia advanced to Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. The host of this event edged Italy 60-55 in the Qfinals. Marina Markovic (181-G/F-91) stepped up for the hosts with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) had 12 points and 9 boards, while Tijana Ajdukovic (197-C-91) added 10 points and 9 rebs. In Italy, Federica Tognalini (183-F-91) top-scored with 15 points. Alessandra Tava (184-F/C-91) (7 rebs) and Federica Nannucci (170-G-91) (5 rebs) netted 9 points each. Serbia made 17-13 lead in the first ten minutes and extended it to five until the halftime (32-27). Marina Markovic and her teammates shined after the breather and grabbed double-digit lead against their rival. With ten minutes to go it was 49-38 for the hosts. However, Italy didnt give up and they closed the gap to 57-55 with 12 seconds remaining in the game. Alessandra Tava was the one who score a triple for Italy and brought them so close. Colic scored one free throw for Serbia after that (58-55) and Italy had the possession. Federica Tognalini tried for 3 and she missed. Tijana Ajdukovic made a lay-up on the other side and sealed a victory for Serbia. Serbia will meet Spain in the Semifinals. Italy is transferred to Classification Round. They will fight for the fifth place.

Serbia: Marina Markovic 14+7 boards, Sara Krnjic 12+9 boards, Tijana Ajdukovic 10+9 boards
Italy: Federica Tognalini 15, Alessandra Tava 9+7 boards, Federica Nannucci 9+5 boards

Alina Iagupova paces U20 Ukraine to 86-51 win against U20 Italy - by Eurobasket News
U20 UKRAINE - U20 ITALY 86-51

It was the first game of the Classification Round from 5th to 8th place. Ukraine successfully passed they first obstacle as they blasted Italy 86-51. Tomorrow, Ukraine will meet France in the battle for fifth place. Italy will play against United Kingdom in the game for position No.7. Alina Iagupova (181-G-92, agency: LBM Management) almost had triple-double for Ukraine today: 24 points, 10 assists and 9 rebounds. Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91, agency: LBM Management) also was great as she added 22 points and 15 rebounds. Third scorer in victory was Olesia Malashenko (189-F-91, agency: LBM Management) with 18 points and she also had 8 boards, plus 5 assists beside that. In Italy, Alessandra Tava (184-F/C-91) top-scored with 14 points. Laura Spreafico (182-F/G-91) (5 rebs) had 10 and Valeria De Pretto (182-F-91) (9 rebs) stopped to 8 points in this meeting. Quarters: 25-11, 22-14, 20-10, 19-16.

Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 24+9 boards+10 as, Olga Maznichenko 22+15 boards, Olesia Malashenko 18+8 boards
Italy: Alessandra Tava 14, Laura Spreafico 10+5 boards, Valeria De Pretto 8+9 boards

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LATVIA - Women

U20 Lithuania ends as No.11 in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News
U20 LITHUANIA - U20 LATVIA 76-67

Lithuania finished as No.11 of the U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. They outplayed Latvia today 76-67 to win this spot. Latvia ended as the twelfth ranked team at this event. Lithuania had five players with double-digits in scoring today. Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) was the leading one with 16 points and she also grabbed 9 rebounds beside that. Inesa Visgaudaite (172-PG-91) had 15 pts, while Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) (5 as) and Gintare Mazionyte (186-F/C-91) added 14 points and 6 rebounds each. In Latvia, Kristine Brance (176-G/F-91) delivered 15 points. Liga Surkusa (194-C-91) had 11 points and 7 rebs. Quarters: 21-17, 17-20, 17-15, 21-15. Both teams will play next year in Division A as well.

Lithuania: Laura Svaryte 16+9 boards, Inesa Visgaudaite 15, Santa Okockyte 14+6 boards+5 as, Gintare Mazionyte 14+6 boards
Latvia: Kristine Brance 15, Liga Surkusa 11+7 boards

U20 Turkey celebrates 64-51 win against U20 Latvia - by Eurobasket News
U20 LATVIA - U20 TURKEY 51-64

Turkey celebrated 64-51 win against Latvia on Friday evening. It is the first step forward to ninth place at the U20 EuroBasket. If Turkey wants to win this spot, they will have to beat Holland today. On the other side, Latvia will meet Lithuania in Baltic derby. The winner will end as No.11. Ozge Yavas (174-G-91) shined in Turkey with 23 points. She made four triples in this meeting. Pinar Demirok (180-F-91) (5 rebs) and Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) netted 12 points each. In the loosing squad, Sabine Niedola (184-F-91) collected 12 points and 7 rebs. Liga Surkusa (194-C-91) followed with 11 pts and 8 rebs. Quarters: 12-21, 18-17, 13-9, 8-17. Today will be the last day of the championship for both teams.

Latvia: Sabine Niedola 12+7 boards, Liga Surkusa 11+8 boards
Turkey: Ozge Yavas 23, Pinar Demirok 12+5 boards, Ayse Cora 12

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LITHUANIA - Women

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MEXICO - Women

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POLAND - Women

U20 Russia eliminates U20 Poland, heads to Big Final in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News
U20 RUSSIA - U20 POLAND 68-52

Russia will have a chance to defend their title from the last year. They cruised past Poland 68-52 in the Quarterfinals of U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. Russia will fight for the Gold against Spain. These two teams met in the 2010 Finals as well. On the other side, Poland will play against Serbia in the game for third place. Anastasiya Shilova (185-F/G-91) exploded with 23 points and 10 rebounds in this meeting. She reached valuation 26 and was the MVP. Veronika Dorosheva (193-F-91) had 13 points and 7 boards, while Yana Panevina (168-G-91) helped with 9 points, 5 rebs and 7 assists. In the loosing squad, Malgorzata Misiuk (184-F-91) was better than the others with 16 points. Their second scorer was Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) with 10 points. Quarters: 17-11, 11-21, 18-6, 22-14. Sunday is the last day of the competition.

Russia: Anastasiya Shilova 23+10 boards, Veronika Dorosheva 13+7 boards, Yana Panevina 9+5 boards+7 as
Poland: Malgorzata Misiuk 16, Magdalena Zietara 10

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PORTUGAL - Women

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PUERTO RICO - Women

U17 Puerto Rico keeps the perfect score in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News
U17 Puerto Rico - U17 US Virgin Islands 96-40

Puerto Rico won the first place in Preliminary Group B in Gurabo. The host of U17 CentroBasket ended this phase with perfect 3-0 record. Of course, Puerto Rico advanced to Semifinals and they will meet Dominican Republic. On the other side, US Virgin Islands dropped to 1-2 and finished as the last ranked of this group. They failed to reach the next stage and will be transferred to Classification Games from 5th to 7th place. Diamalises Rivera Barcelo shined for the winners with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Aleana Lyd Leon Garcia scored 13 points and Claudia Alejandra Ortiz Ledesma added one less than her. In US Virgin Islands, Edidiong Beulah Utibe collected 16 points and 16 boards. Their second scorer was Shaquana Quanae Iona Foy with just 8 pts. Quarters: 25-10, 25-13, 18-8, 28-9.

Puerto Rico: Diamalises Rivera Barcelo 22+6 boards, Aleana Lyd Leon Garcia 13, Claudia Alejandra Ortiz Ledesma 12
US Virgin Islands: Edidiong Beulah Utibe 16+16, Shaquana Quanae Iona Foy 8

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ROMANIA - Women

U20 Romania jumps to 5-0 in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U20 ROMANIA - U20 SLOVAKIA 50-65

Slovakia registered fifth straight win in Group G. They were too strong for Romania once again 65-50 straying on top of this pool with 5-0. Of course, Slovakia already secured the first place in Group G and survival in Division A. Romania will face with relegation. They have poor 0-5. Angelika Slamova (172-G-94) and Dominika Baburova (183-F-91) posted 12 points each for the winners. Sabina Oroszova (187-F-93) followed with 10 points and 6 rebounds. In Romania, Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) collected 19 points and 5 rebs. Gabriela Cursaru (169-PG-92) had 14 pts and was the last one with double-digits in scoring. Quarters: 20-15, 10-16, 9-18, 11-16.

Romania: Cristina Bigica 19+5 boards, Gabriela Cursaru 14
Slovakia: Angelika Slamova 12, Dominika Baburova 12, Sabina Oroszova 10+6 boards

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RUSSIA - Women

Russia U16 wins the International Tournmanet - by Eurobasket News
Russia U16 wins the International Tournmanet with 4 teams participating. In Day 1 Russia U16 needed overtime to start the campaign with the win. They won over Croatia 76:72 for the first victory.
In Day 2 Russia U16 overcame Turkey U16 74:40. Russia was the favorites of the game and easily won all the periods. They started with 16-10 and added 17-6 in the second frame, Moreover the third and the last quarters also belonged to Russia that had 25-17 and 16-7 respectively. For Turkey Busra Akbas scored 9 points and three other players notched 6 apiece.
Russia won the tournament due to 45:43 victory over France. It was a tough game and one of the most interesting in the tournament. Both teams paid too much attention to defense and as a result scored not so many points. Russia remained undefeated after three games.

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SERBIA - Women

U20 EuroBasket: Spain destroys Serbia 75-38 in the Semis - by Eurobasket News
U20 SPAIN - U20 SERBIA 75-38

For the second straight time Spain will play in the Finals of U20 EuroBasket. Once again their rival will be Russia, who beat Spain last year to win the Gold. Spain destroyed Serbia this evening 75-38 to reach the Big Final. The host of this event will meet Poland in the game for third place. Spain was a way better team from the beginning. They made 16-6 lead in the first ten minutes and continued with 24-14 in Q2. Spain totally took control ion Serbia in third quarter and stopped them to just 4 points, while they drained 21 on the other side. The game winner was already decided and last ten minutes were just the formality (14-14). Vega Gimeno Martinez (183-F-91, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Robert Morris) was the leading scorer in Spain with 16 points. Leonor Rodriguez Manso (181-G-91) had 11 points and 6 rebounds, and Queralt Casas (180-G-92) added 10 pts, plus 11 boards. In Serbia, Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) collected 14 points and 6 rebounds. Tijana Ajdukovic (197-C-91) had 12 points and 11 boards in this meeting. All other players scored 12 points in total and their valuation was in minus, mostly. Sunday is the last day of the championship.

Spain: Vega Gimeno Martinez 16, Leonor Rodriguez Manso 11+6 boards, Queralt Casas 10+11 boards
Serbia: Sara Krnjic 14+6 boards, Tijana Ajdukovic 12+11 boards

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SLOVAKIA - Women

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SPAIN - Women

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SWEDEN - Women

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TURKEY - Women

Turkey U16 clinched third place - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U16 clinched third place at the International Tournament with 4 teams participating. In Day 1 France U16 edged Turkey U16 59:45. The latter grabbed 21-14 after the opening period, but could not keep the score for good. France bounced back with 17-6 in the second frame to take the lead. Moreover the winners added 14-9 in the third and the last quarters to seal the victory. Ezgi Manlaci paced the Turks side with 13 points and Sehernaz Cidal collected 7 points and 8 boards.
In Day 2 Russia U16 overcame Turkey U16 74:40. Russia was the favorites of the game and easily won all the periods. They started with 16-10 and added 17-6 in the second frame, Moreover the third and the last quarters also belonged to Russia that had 25-17 and 16-7 respectively. For Turkey Busra Akbas scored 9 points and three other players notched 6 apiece.
Turkey clinched the third place due to the win over Croatia in the last day 79:53. Turkey started with 13-12 and increased to 36:26 at the halftime. Moreover they doubled the lead to 58:38 after three quarters and won the game by 26 points. Hula Coklar stepped up with 28 points and 5 rebounds for the winners, while Ezgi Manlaci netted 13. Basak Altunbey delivered 10 and Busra Akbas notched 9.

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women

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UKRAINE - Women

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UNITED KINGDOM - Women

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WNBA - Women

Latest games - by Eurobasket News
Tulsa S. - L.Angeles S. 74-79
Kristi Toliver (5'7''-G-87, college: Maryland) scored 25 points, including a clutch 3-pointer with 19.7 seconds left, to help lift the Los Angeles Sparks to a 79-74 win over the Tulsa Shock on Friday night. The Shock (1-13) grabbed the lead late in the first period and held it until Toliver hit from long range late in the fourth. The Shock built a 55-37 lead in the second period but suffered through a 4 1/2-minute scoring drought in the final quarter to drop their eighth straight. Delisha Milton-Jones (6'1''-F-74, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Florida) scored 18 points for the Sparks (6-6), Tina Thompson added 11 and Jenna O'Hea had 10. Andrea Riley led the Shock with 15 points, Tiffany Jackson had 14 and Kalyla Pederson 13. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Phoenix M. - Washington M. 78-64
Candice Dupree (6'2''-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) had 20 points, five rebounds and three assists to lead the Phoenix Mercury to a 78-65 win over the Washington Mystics on Friday night. Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut), the WNBA's second-leading scorer, was limited to 13 points and added five assists for the Mercury, who won their sixth straight and 10th in the last 11 games. Crystal Langhorne had 17 points and eight rebounds for the Mystics, who have lost five straight and nine of 10. Matee Ajavon added 14 points for Washington. Washington made six of its first seven shots in the second half to pull to 49-45 with 4:29 left after trailing the entire opening half. But Phoenix outscored the Mystics 15-4 over the next 4 minutes to pull away. Kara Braxton had 17 points, and Penny Taylor added eight points, eight rebounds, seven assists and five steals for Phoenix, which leads the Western Conference by a game over San Antonio. *Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

New York L. - Connecticut S. 59-68
Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored 15 points, Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) had 14 and the Connecticut Sun rallied for a 68-59 victory over the New York Liberty on Friday night. Renee Montgomery scored 10 of her 12 points in the fourth quarter as the Sun (7-5) closed with a 10-0 run to snap a two-game skid. Connecticut coach Mike Thibault got his 167th career victory, tying him with Anne Donovan and Michael Cooper for second place in WNBA history. Kia Vaughn had 15 points and nine rebounds to lead New York (8-6), which snapped a four-game winning streak. Nicole Powell scored 13 points, Cappie Pondexter had 11 and rookie reserve Alex Montgomery added 10. *Courtesy of www.signonsandiego.com

S.Antonio SS - Seattle S. 69-66
On a night when two Seattle players were announced as All-Star starters, a pair of San Antonio rookies stole the spotlight. Danielle Adams (6'1''-F/C-89, college: Texas A&M) scored 15 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter, and Danielle Robinson (5'9''-G-89, college: Oklahoma) hit two free throws with 1.6 seconds left and the Silver Stars beat the Storm 69-66 on Thursday night. Robinson finished with 12 points to help the Silver Stars (8-4) snap a three-game losing streak overall, and a six-game skid against the Storm. Adams had a tiebreaking three-point play to put San Antonio up 65-62 with 28.7 seconds to go. After Katie Smith hit a jumper to pull Seattle within one, Robinson hit two free throws with 14.7 seconds left. Wright's putback cut the lead to one again with 2.2 seconds to go, and Robinson then sealed the game for the Silver Stars. *Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com