Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/18/2011

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Men News

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AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16

Egypt defends the Gold! - by Eurobasket News
Egypt defended Gold medal at the U16 AfroBasket 2011. The host of this event cruised past Tunisia 117-67 in the Big Final. Thanks to this win, Egypt also booked a ticket for the FIBA U17 World Championship 2012 in Lithuania. Egypt took control on Tunisia from the beginning. Already at the halftime Egypt was 53-31 up. Nothing has changed after the breather and Egypt cruised to 117-67 victory at the end. Of course, second place belongs to Tunisia.
In the battle for Bronze, Mali grabbed 59-57 thriller win against Angola. Fifth place at this event belongs to Algeria, who was better than Mozambique 55-54. It was another exciting meeting in the last day of competition. Congo-Brazzaville avoided last place at this event thanks to 66-60 win against South Africa.

Final ranking
1 EGYPT
2 TUNISIA
3 MALI
4 ANGOLA
5 ALGERIA
6 MOZAMBIQUE
7 CONGO-BRAZZAVILLE
8 SOUTH AFRICA

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ALGERIA

Fifth place in Egypt belongs to U16 Algeria - by Eurobasket News
Algeria closed U16 AfroBasket with victory. In the last day of the competition Algeria grabbed 55-54 thriller win against Mozambique. It was a game for the fifth place at this event. Of course, position No.6 belongs to Mozambique. The winner of U16 AfroBasket is Egypt, again. They outplayed Tunisia 117-67 in the Big Final. Thanks to this win, Egypt also booked a ticket for the FIBA U17 World Championship 2012 in Lithuania. Third place belongs to Mali, who was better than Angola 59-57.
Algeria ended Preliminary Round as No.2 of Group A with 1-2 record. They met Angola in the Quarterfinals and failed 52-66. After that, Algeria was better than Congo-Brazzaville 68-50 to open the Classification Round. Finally, they grabbed 55-54 win against Mozambique for the fifth place.

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ANGOLA

U16 Mali wins the Bronze in Egypt - by Eurobasket News
U16 Mali is the Bronze medal winner at the U16 AfroBasket 2011 in Egypt. In a heartbreaking thriller, Mali managed to beat U16 Angola 59-57 to win third place at this event. Angola stays without the medal. Egypt defended the title in U16 Afrobasket. The host of this event cruised past Tunisia 117-67 in the Big Final. Thanks to this win, Egypt also booked a ticket for the FIBA U17 World Championship 2012 in Lithuania.
Mali ended Preliminary Round as No.2 of Group B with 2-1 record. They eliminated Mozambique 47-44 in the Quarterfinals, but failed against Tunisia in the Semis 49-51. On the other side, Angola was No.3 in Group B. They handed 66-52 loss to Algeria in the Qfinals, after what Egypt eliminated them 106-41 in the Semis.

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ARGENTINA

U17 Argentina blasts U17 Chile in Cucuta, 67-51 - by Eurobasket News
Argentina had a joyful Day One in Cucuta. They cruised past Chile 67-51 for 1-0 record at the U17 South American Championship. First quarter was pretty leveled and Argentina ended it with 16-15. Chile replied for the next ten minutes and teams went to the HT with 30-30 tie. Argentina took control on Chile after the breather as they won third period 18-9. Argentina dominated in the last ten minutes as well finishing this game with comfortable 67-51. In the second day of the championship, Argentina will meet Ecuador. Chile will take on Brazil. There are eight participants at this event and all are placed in one group. All teams will play against each other and then in the last day of the competition top two teams will play for the Gold, third and fourth teams will play for the Bronze and so on.

Winter league 2011 - by Facundo Iatzky
This week, once again winter league will be played in Buenos Aires. It will be used for the players to come in a good shape to the preseason of their respective teams.
rosters:
RID Group:
Coach: Emilio Sanchez

1) Federico Villagra,
2) Santino Propato,
3) Matias Compagnucci.
4) Facundo Menini.
5) Lucas Curiale
6) Facundo Pontillo.
7) Marcelo Weiter.
8) Sebastian Brizuela.
9) Mauro Cobelo.
10)Gian Carlo Zornada.
11) Nicolas Pedzzoni.
12) German Genero.
13) Santiago Cedones.
14) Matias Pacioti
15) Esteban Camejo.
16) Nicols Mendik.

La banda del Vasco:
Coach: Alvaro Castineira

17) Maximiliano Stanic
18) Nicolas Stanic
19) Jonatan Maldonado
20) Kevin Hernandez
26) Ariel Sbovoda

ADJ Free team:
Coach: Juan C. Micenta

21) Jonathan Treise
22) Gonzalo Alvarez
23) Clive Williamson
24) Christian Warley
25) Julian Horvat
47) Martin Leiva
48) Federico Perrotti
49) Federico Massone
50) H.Gorostiaga
51) Jonatan Carrera
52) Matias Gornatti

Budding Draft 5:
Coach: Gaston Peveri

33) Gabriel Menza
34) Leonel Rodriguez
35) Ezequiel Manzanares
36) Erbel Depietro
37) Gianluca Pellegrino
38) Kevin Jerez Pilotti
39) Nahuel Marchioni
31) Sebastian Festa
40) Dante Predazzi
41) Federico Mateo
42) Leandro Gonzalez
43) Sebastian Ameghini
44) Juan P. Zilla
45) German Boero
46) Sebastian Alvarez

Palermo Lakers:
Coach: Ivan Najnudel

27) Sebastian Sevegnani
28) Lucas Gornatti
29) Gaston Gianelli
30) Juan Gutierrez
32) Daniel Chaer
52) Mariano Fierro
53) Agustin Pirovani
54) Nicolas Laprovittola
55) Leandro Portillo

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AUSTRALIA

Standings - SBL

SBL Standings

1. Lakeside L.		23-2
2. Wanneroo W.		18-7
3. Cockburn C.		17-8
4. Perry Lakes H.		16-9
5. Willetton T.		14-10
6. East Perth E.		14-10
7. Perth R.		14-11
8. Stirling S.		14-11
9. Goldfield G.		11-13
10. Kalamunda E.S.		10-15
11. Geraldton B.		8-17
12. Mandurah M.		7-17
13. Rockingham F.		7-18
14. AIS		0-0
15. SW Slammers		0-25

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BALKAN LEAGUE

BELARUS

Belarus need overtime to edge Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Belarus - Ukraine 98:92 (OT)

Belarus celebrated the second straight win at the international friendly tournament in Mogilev. The hosts overcame Ukraine (University National Team) in overtime to stay undefeated. Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) stepped up with 19 points to pace the winners. Ukraine fell at 1-1 record after the loss.
Belarus got to the better start. They outscored the visitors for a 21:16 lead at the first break. Ukraine slowed the hosts down in the second period. The visitors got within four points at halftime 37:33. Ukraine got even closer in the third term. Led by Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) the visitors got within three points with one quarter remaining. Ukraine fired 26 points in the fourth period to level things up and forced overtime. But Belarus pulled together in the extra term. They unloaded 23 points in the next five minutes and escaped with a tough win at the end. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) accounted for 18 points and 10 rebounds for Belarus. Valery Gandlin (191-G-86) added 11 points in the victory. Maksym Kornienko answered with game-high 22 points and 11 rebounds for Ukraine. Pavlo Burenko (188-G-90) contributed 13 points in defeat.

Belarus: Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 19, Artsiom Parakhouski 18+10 boards, Valery Gandlin 11
Ukraine: Maksym Kornienko 22+11 boards, Pavlo Burenko 13

U20: Israel scored three digits to outscore Belarus - by Eurobasket News
Israel U20-Belarus U20 111:88

Israel scored 111 points to win over Belarus in Day 4 of the U20 European Championship. The team allowed the team from Belarus to post 88 in Division B game on Sunday.
Belarus scored first 4 points in the game, while Bar Timor (192-G-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) gave the winning side 8:6. The first period became offensive in the court and Israel took 27:17 lead. Moreover the teams scored 70! Points in the second frame as Israel won 39-31 to increase to 66:48 at the halftime. Labanowski and Guy Lavie (188-PG-92) scored for 71:50, while Havkin closed the period at 87:68. Ber Aven scored a lay-up at 100:73 with 5 minutes to go and then Israel saved the victory.
Jonathan Sztarkman (188-PG-91) stepped up with 27 points for the winners and Nimrod Tishman (196-PG-91) nailed 17. Guy Lavie scored 13, whilst Bar Timor had 11. Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) ended up with 28 points in the losing effort and Mikalai Salauyou (191-G-91) scored 16.

Israel U20: Jonathan Sztarkman 27, Nimrod Tishman 17, Guy Lavie 13, Bar Timor 11
Belarus U20: Vitali Liutych 28, Mikalai Salauyou 16, Viktar Ausepian (205-F-91) 13

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BELGIUM

BOSNIA

FIBA Europe president visits Bosnia - by Sead Buljina
Mr. Olafur Rafnson, FIBA Europe president decided to paid a visit to Bosnia during U20 European Championship Division B. There are many competitions going on at the same time, including U20 European Championship Division A. However, thanks to reputation enjoyed by Mr. Mirsad Djonlagic and Mr. Goran Radonjic, FIBA Europe president came to Sarajevo. Mr. Rafnson met with Bosnian basketball federation officials and attended U20 EC opening ceremony. 'Our task is to involve sports activists and State institutions in promoting basketball even further. Event organization such as U20 EC is a great opportunity. I am very satisfied with the organization of this championship', said Rafnson.

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BRAZIL

U17 Brazil has joyful Day One in Cucuta - by Eurobasket News
U17 South American championship started yesterday in Cucuta. Brazil easily beat Paraguay in Day One. It was a 69-40 blowout win for 1-0 score at this event. Brazilians took control on Paraguay from the early beginning and never looked back. They had 14-5 and 26-12 lead. Question about the winner was already decided after three quarters as Brazil was 54-29 up. Last ten minutes were just the formality. In Day Two of the championship, Brazil will meet Chile. Paraguay will play against Venezuela. There are eight participants at this event and all are placed in one group. All teams will play against each other and then in the last day of the competition top two teams will play for the Gold, third and fourth teams will play for the Bronze and so on. Also in Day One, Argentina cruised past Chile 67-51, while Uruguay handed 67-64 loss to Venezuela. Colombia blasted Ecuador 74-52.

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BULGARIA

U20: Bulgaria hand Slovak Republic first loss in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Bulgaria U20 - Slovak Republic U20 65:58

Bulgaria earned the second win at U20 European Championship in Division B. They shot down Slovak Republic to improve at 2-1 record in Group B. Slovak Republic on the other hand fell at 2-1 record after the loss. Stanislav Tsonkov (192-G-91) scored 16 points to pace the winners.
Bulgaria pulled in front midway through the starting quarter. Slovak Republic stayed close but Bulgaria managed to take a 19:16 lead at the first break. Bulgaria opened the second frame with seven points in a row to boost the lead. They kept Slovak Republic at distance in the reminder of the period posting a 39:35 halftime lead. Jaroslav Moravek (200-F/C-92) however put Slovak Republic in front midway through the third term. Plamen Hristov (197-F/G-91), Radev and Dafinov regained the lead for the Bulgarian side as they entered the final frame up by 2 points 50:48. Bulgaria nailed 7 points in a row at the start of the fourth period to take a 9-point advantage. Plamen Hristov made a double-digit lead with three minutes remaining. Slovak Republic never got back to life and had to surrender at the end. Konstantin Koev (195-F-91) provided 15 points for Bulgaria. Plamen Hristov added 11 points and 10 rebounds in the victory. Jaroslav Moravek responded with 21 points and 16 rebounds for Slovak Republic. Tomas Mrvis (194-G/F-91) accounted for 14 points in defeat.

Bulgaria U20: Stanislav Tsonkov 16, Konstantin Koev 15, Plamen Hristov 11+10 boards
Slovak Republic U20: Jaroslav Moravek 21+16 boards, Tomas Mrvis 14

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CANADA

World Military Championship: Trinidad and Tobago fire past Canada - by Eurobasket News
Trinidad and Tobago - Canada 68:53

Trinidad and Tobago claimed the first win at the 2011 World Championship in Brazil. They shot down Canada in preliminary Group A tonight. Steven Lewis (193-F) knocked down 19 points to lead the winners.
Trinidad and Tobago shocked their opponents in the opening quarter. The Caribbean team outscored Canada 26:9 to comfortably set in charge. Trinidad and Tobago stayed in front throughout the second period. They posted a 33:25 halftime lead. Canada fought hard as they managed to get within 6 points at the final break. But Trinidad and Tobago nailed 20 points in the fourth quarter and ran away for the victory at the end. Herdis Lewis finished with 12 points for the winners. Derrick Boxhill (180-PG-84) had 11 points for Trinidad and Tobago. Nicolas Cooke (206-F-88) answered with 25 points and 7 rebounds for Canada. Brad Krajcik (193-G) netted 13 points in defeat. Trinidad and Tobago will take on the USA, while Canada will play against Cyprus tomorrow.

Trinidad and Tobago: Steven Lewis 19, Herdis Lewis 12, Derrick Boxhill 11
Canada: Nicolas Cooke 25, Brad Krajcik 13

Rapture for Casey in getting another shot - by Eurobasket News
The excitement of Dwayne Casey's new job in Toronto has been muted by the NBA lockout rules that prohibit him from mentioning the players he will coach. Who knows if he has spoken of DeMar DeRozan, Ed Davis, or Andrea Bargnani to anybody but his wife while enjoying the Seattle summer.
Tweet .ShareThis .
So instead of basking in the glow of being hired to run the Raptors, he waits to get started.

Casey was a finalist for two openings last offseason, losing out to Vinny Del Negro with the Clippers and to Larry Drew in Atlanta. His stock increased when he gained recognition as the defensive mastermind behind the Mavericks, who stifled the Heat during the NBA Finals.

A team known for high scoring and disheartening playoff eliminations made an improbable run to the title partly because of Caseys savvy leadership as Rick Carlisles top assistant. And the Raptors, in desperate need of leadership, tabbed Casey as their next commander.

Casey is considered one of the leagues good guys, but like former Celtics assistant Tom Thibodeau (the reigning NBA coach of the year with the Bulls) isnt a self-promoter and was passed up for jobs by more prominent candidates. Caseys low-key style should fit perfectly in Toronto, but he said he has the enthusiasm to make basketball relevant in Canada.

Its no wonder Raptors fans have become jaded. They have watched players such as Damon Stoudamire, Marcus Camby, Vince Carter, and Chris Bosh leave for greener pastures, leaving the franchise barren of stars. While DeRozan, Davis, and Bargnani make up a young, talented core, the team desperately needs direction.

The misnomer that you are in Canada and not in the States is totally misplaced, Casey said. Because its a great sports city. I cant imagine if you turn the program around how exciting it would be. Its a melting pot for anybody. But a lot of times players just come there in the dead of winter and dont really get a taste of the city. Thats one thing thats going to be our mission, is to try to change that image and go back to my recruiting days at Kentucky, and try to recruit.

Twenty-plus years ago, Casey was one of the countrys best recruiters but got caught up in the Eddie Sutton scandal and was accused of sending money to prospective players. The NCAA couldnt prove that Casey actually sent money and he was exonerated, but not without damage to his reputation. Casey resurfaced in the NBA and spent 11 years in Seattle as an assistant coach, primarily under George Karl, before taking the Timberwolves top job in 2005.

He was fired during the 2006-07 season, despite a 20-20 record, amid increasing rumors that Kevin Garnett wanted to leave. Casey missed out on some coaching opportunities over the last four years, but he won his first championship last month.

Winning solidified what we had been preaching in Dallas for years, defense wins, said Casey, who was 53-69 in Minnesota. When we first went there, I thought [former coach] Avery [Johnson] had just started to turn the corner with the defense. Its the same defensive system we used in Minnesota and Seattle. Dallas was a great training ground for me to be ready for pressure and know what expectations for ownership is. Mark [Cuban] challenges you every game and that helps you grow.

But never at one time did I say, Hey, when am I going to get my next coaching job?

The Raptors were 26th in points allowed and 29th in field goal percentage last season. So Casey has an arduous task to fix a franchise that has lacked defensive urgency.

Its just something you have to emphasize, Casey said. Its something well preach, make time for, well follow through with it, hold guys accountable. Its going to be part of our practice plan more than guys will like . . . its gotta be because any time you are last in the league in defense, and you lose 60 games, somethings gotta change and change quickly. And thats going to be our approach. Its not only a changing-the-culture situation but a teaching situation because the team is so young.

Its a challenge Casey has wanted for nearly five years, and he is excited about working with new talent, though those names cant be uttered publicly until there is labor peace.

Courtesy of www.boston.com

Phoenix Suns' Steve Nash has interest, passport to play overseas - by Eurobasket News
Amid all the misleading, deceptive and ambiguous talk of locked-out NBA players taking their talents to south Europe, it actually is not far-fetched to think Steve Nash could play there instead of Phoenix this year.

Nash travels the world like a wave. He is a South African-born, America-residing Canadian with British parents, a Paraguayan ex-wife and a Chinese shoe deal. Only Australia and Antarctica aren't covered.

An inquiry into his interest found him dining with ex-Suns teammate Boris Diaw . . . in Paris.

'I'd love to play overseas,' Nash wrote. 'It may be difficult with three kids but I'd love to do it.'

Besides Nash's worldly nature and interest, what makes the possibility more intriguing is that Nash has a British passport. Players with passports or dual citizenship help European teams around the limit of two American players.

'He'd be ready to roll,' Nash's agent, Bill Duffy, said. 'I've talked to him about it in the past. He's a worldwide traveler and maverick. He's committed to playing for the Suns but it's not up to him. If it looks like the season's going to be shut down, everyone's going to be looking for work.'

What might be more plausible for Nash is playing in China, where he has ties. Nash left Nike this year to endorse shoe company Lu You, although he can still wear Nikes in games. Nash's agency has represented Yao Ming, who named a school he built in China after Nash.

China's season starts later, in January, allowing Nash and others to have a better feel for the lockout before leaping. Chinese teams would be more open to borrowing a player than European teams would.

European clubs are not as likely to disrupt chemistry with most NBA players who might demand more money, expect more playing time and want to be allowed out of the contract should the NBA settle.

'If you want a NBA escape, you're not going to get one there,' one agent said. 'Those are serious teams. They're not going to sign guys to play 15 minutes and make their teams worse.'

Chinese teams are known to sign players just for playoffs and would love the buzz of an NBA arrival.

'There may be a lot more flexibility in China,' Duffy said. 'They'd be so excited to have them.'

There is a worst-case Nash scenario that a lost NBA season could end his career with him turning 38 in February. That is doubtful, considering he has a year remaining on his contract, has expressed a desire to play through another contract, trains like mad to stave off injury or physical decline, just led the league in assists without a top-50 scoring teammate and is motivated to win again after missing the playoffs.

Other Suns will consider playing overseas. Center Marcin Gortat told Polish media there is a strong possibility he will play for a Russian team. Another prominent Suns player is weighing the idea.

Nobody knows the perils of leaving the NBA for Europe like the Suns' Josh Childress, who bolted from Atlanta to Greece for a three-year, $20 million deal when Greece's economy was far better. He can envision Nash embracing the experience but thinks most people do not consider how players could have trouble getting paid (his contract stipulated any arbitration would be heard in Switzerland), often take long bus rides or commercial flights and play slow systems dominated by coaches.

'Unless a guy is going over to Europe to enjoy the opportunity, there are not many jobs for guys going over strictly for money and a lot of teams aren't going to want a top player,' Childress said. 'To view players going to Europe as the next big thing, I wouldn't view it as that. I'd hate to see guys go over there uninformed.

'The majority of interest will come from China. That's a huge market for the NBA. The contracts will be more lucrative there.'

Courtesy of www.azcentral.com

Canadian Military National Team for World Military Championships in Rio de Janeiro - by Eurobasket

Anderson

Cooke

Krajcik

Carreiro

Campbell

4 Jeremy Kerr (177-PG-82)
5 Michel Gosselin (178-PG-87) of Royal Military College
*6 Jonathan Carreiro (178-PG-83) of Royal Military College
7 Michael Stainton (186-G-79)
8 David Llyod (190-G-90)
*9 Paul Campbell (190-G-89)
*10 Bradley Krajcik (192-G-84) of Royal Military College
11 Matt Bentley (192-G-82) of Royal Military College
*12 Nicholas Cooke (205-C-88)
13 Steven Bilodeau (195-F/C-78)
14 Andrew Rupf (201-C/F-76) of University of Toronto
*15 Grant Anderson (201-C-82) of Royal Military College
Head Coach: George Mooney
Assistant Coach: James Scott

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CHILE

SouthAmerican Championship U17: Chile lost against Argentina in day 1 - by Daniel Valencia
In day 1 of the U17 SouthAmerican championship, the chilean national team lost against Argentina 51-67. The NT kept the scoreboard closed during the first half that ended 30-30. In the third quarter the argentinians took a 9 point lead (48-39) and then finished the game with another run (19-12) for the 67-51 final result.

Day 1

Chile 51 - Argentina 67

1 15-16 / 2 15-14 / 3 9-18 / 4 12-19

In day 2 of the tournament, the NT will play against Brazil.

U17 Argentina blasts U17 Chile in Cucuta, 67-51 - by Eurobasket News
Argentina had a joyful Day One in Cucuta. They cruised past Chile 67-51 for 1-0 record at the U17 South American Championship. First quarter was pretty leveled and Argentina ended it with 16-15. Chile replied for the next ten minutes and teams went to the HT with 30-30 tie. Argentina took control on Chile after the breather as they won third period 18-9. Argentina dominated in the last ten minutes as well finishing this game with comfortable 67-51. In the second day of the championship, Argentina will meet Ecuador. Chile will take on Brazil. There are eight participants at this event and all are placed in one group. All teams will play against each other and then in the last day of the competition top two teams will play for the Gold, third and fourth teams will play for the Bronze and so on.

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CHINA

Chinese NBL round 12 best performance: Alan Wiggins - by Eurobasket News
American forward Alan Wiggins (206-F-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Whampoa, receiving a Asia-basket.com NBL Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 26-year old player had a double-double of 35 points and 15 rebounds, while his team beat Hangzhou (#10, 2-10) 104-96. Whampoa maintains the 2nd position in Chinese NBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Whampoa will need more victories to improve their 9-3 record. Wiggins has many years of experience at Whampoa, through which he has constantly improved. Former University of San Francisco star has very solid stats this year. Wiggins is league's best scorer averaging so far 28.6ppg. Wiggins is in league's top in rebounds (2nd best: 13.8rpg) and averages impressive 1.3bpg and 56.7% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 23-year old Palestinian Sani Sakakini (204-C-88) of Guangzhou FM. Sakakini had a very good evening with a double-double of 36 points and 13 rebounds. Of course he lead Guangzhou FM to another comfortable win 118-99 over the higher-ranked ShenYang (#1, 9-3) being unquestionably team leader. Despite this victory Guangzhou FM slide down in the standings to 7th position. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 6-6 record is not bad and everything may still change. Sakakini is one of the most experienced players at Guangzhou FM and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was Canadian Ryan Wright (206-C/F-87) of Sichuan (#5). Wright got into 30-points club by scoring 33 points in the last round. He went also for eighteen rebounds . Despite Wright's great performance Sichuan lost 81-85 to slightly higher-ranked Changan Group (#3, 7-5). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Sichuan needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 6 victories and 6 lost games. Wright has a great season in China. After 12 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 13.8rpg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Benson Egemonye (207-C-83) of Heilongjiang - 27 points, 15 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Christopher Lawson (193-F-83) of Hebei - 31 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists
6. Ndudi Ebi (206-F-84) of Ningxia Hanas - 28 points and 16 rebounds
7. Kenny Lawson (205-C-88) of Jiangsu - 24 points and 13 rebounds
8. Jahmar Thorpe (198-F-84) of Changan Group - 24 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
9. DeAngelo Collins (206-F-82) of ShenYang - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Ma Chao (196-F-86) of Sichuan - 25 points and 11 rebounds

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

China Beats Montenegro 62-60 - by Arthur Volbert
China defeated Montenegro 62-60 in another game of preparation for competition in the Asian Championship. This was the last game of the current series and the likelihood is that five or more players will soon be cut as the team pares down to its final roster from its current roster of 20.

Wang Zhizhi, Liu Wei, Wang Shipeng, Zhu Fangyu, Ding Jinhui, Yi Li and Zhou Peng did not play. Wang Lei (203-F-86) led the team with 15 points and 3 rebounds and made a strong case for making the cut. Mo Ke had 8 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks and also made his case. Su Wei had 8 points and 5 rebounds in 30 minutes and made a similar case. Zhang Zhaoxu had 5 points and 4 fouls in 6 minutes and made the opposite case. Zhang Qingpeng had 8 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists in 33 minutes but did not make a strong enough case for inclusion given his real age.

Sun Yue had 6 points and 6 rebounds in 29 minutes, hitting 2 of 8 shots. He showed his ever-present strengths and weaknesses but will likely make the roster as a role-player. Xirelijiang had 5 points, Zhang Bo had 4 and Yu Shulong was scoreless but no one has really stepped up and shouted that they should be Liu Wei's backup at point guard. Meng Duo had 2 points in 11 minutes and likely has fallen behind Wang Lei in the competition for instant offense off the bench.

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COLOMBIA

U17 Colombia blasts U17 Ecuador 74-52 - by Eurobasket News
The host of U17 South American championship enjoyed their first day in Cucuta. They blasted Ecuador 74-52 for 1-0 score at this event. Ecuador was able to resist only in the first half. The hosts were 35-32 up at that time and Ecuador was still in the game, but everything changed in Q3. Colombia exploded and jumped 61-40 lead with 10:00 to go. It was too much for Ecuador, who faced with 52-74 loss at the end. In Day Two of the championship, Colombia will meet Uruguay. Ecuador will take on Argentina. There are eight participants at this event and all are placed in one group. All teams will play against each other and then in the last day of the competition top two teams will play for the Gold, third and fourth teams will play for the Bronze and so on. Also in Day One, Argentina cruised past Chile 67-51, while Uruguay had to work very hard to beat Venezuela 67-64. Brazil easily beat Paraguay in Day One. It was a 69-40 blowout win.

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CONGO-BRAZAVILLE

U16 Congo-Brazzaville avoid last place in Egypt - by Eurobasket News
Congo-Brazzaville avoided last place at the U16 AfroBasket 2011 in Egypt. In the last day of the competition, Congo-Brazzaville outplayed South Africa 66-60. This is their first win at this event, what was enough for the seventh place. South Africa ended as the last ranked team. The winner of U16 AfroBasket in Egypt, again. They cruised past Tunisia 117-67 in the Big Final. Thanks to this win, Egypt also booked a ticket for the FIBA U17 World Championship 2012 in Lithuania. The Bronze belongs to Mali, who was better than Angola 59-57. Algeria is No.5 thanks to 55-54 win against Mozambique. Finally, seventh place belongs to Congo-Brazzaville.

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CROATIA

Croatia U16 beats Slovenia U16 twice in Daruvar - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U16 beats Slovenia U16 twice in Daruvar in friendly clashes. Both teams continue their preparation for U16 European Championship.
At first Croatia U16 won 85:73 taking the lead in the first period. The hosts enjoyed 26:22 after the first period, while both teams nailed 17 points each in the second frame. Moreover Croatia added 19-13 and 23-21 in the second half to win the opener. For Slovenia Rebec netted 13 points, while Aleksej Nikolic (178-G-95), Andraz Rogelja and Marko Cergic posted 9 apiece.
Last night Croatia U16 edged Slovenian team 83:58. The hosts opened the game with 22-11 and never looked behind. They added 15-12 in the second frame for 37:23 advantage. The second half also belonged to Croatia that produced 24-15 and 22-20 in the third and the last stanzas respectively. For Slovenia Aleksej Nikolic posted 14 points and Kavas netted 10. Rebec and Nejc Zupan (195-G-96) followed them with 8 points each in defeat.

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CYPRUS

World Military Championship: Greece cruise past Cyprus in Rio de Janiero - by Eurobasket News
Greece - Cyprus 83:47

Greece victoriously opened their World Military Championship campaign. They overcame Cyprus in preliminary Group A in Rio de Janeiro today. Dimitrios Kompodietas (196-G-85) stepped up with 16 points to lead the winners. Greece will take on South Korea, while Cyprus will face Canada tomorrow.
The Hellenes led right from the start. They posted a 17:12 lead after ten minutes. The margin kept on growing throughout the second quarter. Greece registered a 36:23 halftime lead. Greece opened the second half on a 14:2 run to clear off. They posted a 30-point lead before the fourth frame and never looked back en route to the victory. Giorgos Tirlas (198-F-80), Dimitris Katiakos (205-F-87) and Gkontopoulos finished with 9 points apiece for the winners. Michael Simon (184-G-92) answered with 19 points for Cyprus. Christos Loizidis (200-F-91) accounted for 9 points in defeat.

Greece: Dimitrios Kompodietas 16, Giorgos Tirlas 9, Dimitris Katiakos 9, Gkontopoulos 9
Cyprus: Michael Simon 19, Christos Loizidis 9

Cyprus prevail against Jordan in Mogilev - by Eurobasket News
Cyprus - Jordan 74:68

Cypriot National Team celebrated the first win at the international friendly tournament in Belarus. They shot down Jordan to improve at 1-1 record. Aristides Koronidis (188-G-82) stepped up with 19 points to lead the charge. Jordan in the meantime slipped at 0-2 record. Cyprus will take on Ukraine, while Jordan will face hosting Belarus tonight.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes of action. Jordan and Cyprus continued to trade baskets throughout the second frame. They went into the locker rooms tied at 35. Cyprus managed to put their noses in front in the third term. They secured a narrow 50:49 lead with one quarter remaining. Led by Aristides Koronidis and Christopher Razis (193-F-89) Cyprus unloaded 24 points in the fourth term and clinched the victory at the end. Christopher Razis and Vassilis Kounas (195-G-84) knocked down 9 points apiece for the winners. Ayman Adais (208-C-78, agency: Court Side) answered with 19 points for Jordan. Wesam Al-Sous (183-G-83) finished with 16 points in the loss.

Cyprus: Aristides Koronidis 19, Christopher Razis 9, Vassilis Kounas 9
Jordan: Ayman Adais 19, Wesam Al-Sous 16

Cypriot Military National Team for World Military Championships in Rio de Janeiro - by Eurobasket

Simon

Katsiamides

Stylianou

Constantinou

Loizidis

4 Giorgos Tallaris (190-F-84) of Argonaftes B.C. Erimis
5 Andreas Charidemou (175-PG-92)
*6 Michael Simon (185-G-92) of Libra Asteras Limassol
7 Kyriakos Pantziaros (195-F-91) of Achilleas Kaimakliou
*8 Antreas Katsiamides (177-PG-91) of Keravnos Strovolou
9 Neophytos Chantriotis (188-G-93) of InterCollege Etha Engomis
*10 Antreas Stylianou (195-F/C-76) of Hasapis Omonia Nicosia
11 Andreas Vlachos (199-F-92) of Cytavision Apoel Nicosia
12 Vanko Antonov (189-G/F-93) of Pizza Express Primetel Apollon
13 Savvas Mavromatis (199-PF-88) of AGEH Gymnastikos Halkidas Greece

*14 Nicolas Constantinou (186-G/F-91) of InterCollege Etha Engomis
*15 Christos Loizidis (204-C-91) of Ikaros Academies Greece

Head Coach: Ioann Aristotelous

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CZECH REPUBLIC

U20: Czech Republic U20 wins Group C in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic U20-Finland U20 76:62

Czech Republic U20 wins Group C in Sarajevo at the U20 European Championship. The team recorded the fourth straight victory after 76:62 over Finland.
Czech Republic won the opening tip 8-0 and never looked behind in the game. Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) however reduced to 17:15, while Ondrej Balvin (215-C-92) made a dunk for 27:18. Czech Republic added 24-17 in the second frame for 41:30 at the halftime. The third stanza was decisive in the game as it proved the winner. The favorites added 25-11 and Jaros closed the frame at 66:41. Finland managed to win the last stanza 21-10 to reduce the gap in the game.
Ondrej Peterka (202-F-91) led the way with 17 points, while Ondrej Balvin collected 13 points and 11 rebounds. Tomas Vyoral (188-PG-92) followed them with 11 points and Filip Halada (194-F-92) nailed 10. Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) and Antto Nikkarinen (185-PG-91) posted 13 points each in defeat and Carl Lindbom netted 10.

Czech Republic U20: Ondrej Peterka 17, Ondrej Balvin 13+11 rebs, Tomas Vyoral 11, Filip Halada 10
Finland U20: Villematti Kopio 13, Antto Nikkarinen 13, Carl Lindbom 10

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DENMARK

U20: Denmark record third win in a row in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U20 - Netherlands U20 78:72

Denmark celebrated the third straight win at the U20 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Netherlands to stay on top of Group B. Netherlands in the meantime slipped at 1-3 record in the ladder. Jonas Bergstedt (210-C-91) stepped up with 21 points and 16 rebounds to pace the winners.
Denmark jumped in front early in the encounter and maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter. They posted a 21:16 lead after ten minutes. Brandt helped the Dutch team level things up at 32 late in the first half. But Bennedsen secured a 36:33 halftime lead for the Scandinavian team. Netherlands used a 7:0 run midway through the third quarter to pull in front. But Denmark recovered once again posting a 56:51 lead with one quarter remaining. Gyamfi and Jonas Bergstedt stretched the gap to 13 points early in the final period. Netherlands went on an 8:2 rally cutting the deficit but Berstedt and Thomas Laerke (194-G/F-91) hit three free throws in the dying seconds to seal the victory for Denmark. Thomas Laerke accounted for 20 points for Denmark. Alexander Bak (193-F-91) contributed 17 points in the victory. Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) answered with 19 points for Netherlands. Leon Williams (189-G-92) finished with 16 points in the loss.

Denmark U20: Jonas Bergstedt 21+16 boards, Thomas Laerke 20, Alexander Bak 17
Netherlands U20: Dimeo Van Der Horst 19, Leon Williams 16

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D-LEAGUE

Vipers' McNeal heads to Italy - by Eurobasket News
Guard Jerel McNeal (6'3''-G-87, college: Marquette), a guard with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers last season, has signed with Sutor Montegranaro, which competes in Lega Basket Serie A. It is he highest professional league in Italy. McNeal averaged 20.6 points in his only season with the Vipers. McNeal becomes the third member of the 2010-11 Vipers to sign overseas. Guard Matt Janning (6'4''-G/F-88, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Northeastern) signed with Fastweb Casale, second division league in Italy and guard Jon Scheyer (6'5''-G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Duke) signed with Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel.

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Tyree Evans is a newcomer at Huracanes del Atlantico - by Eurobasket Center
Huracanes del Atlantico strengthened their roster with addition of American guard Tyree Evans (191-G, college: Kent St.). Evans played most recently at UBC Hannover Tigers (Germany). His best achievement was two years ago at the end of college career, when he won MAC East Division Regular Season Champion title. Last February he joined German Hannover Tigers, where in 8 games he averaged 12.4ppg, 2.9rpg and 1.0apg.
By Eurobasket Data Center

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ECUADOR

EGYPT

Egypt blasts Tunisia 117-67 in U16 AfroBasket Finals, wins the Gold again - by Eurobasket News
U16 Egypt continued its domination on African continent. For the second consecutive time they won the Gold at U16 AfroBasket. The host of this event cruised past Tunisia 117-67 in the Big Final. Thanks to this win, Egypt also booked a ticket for the FIBA U17 World Championship 2012 in Lithuania. Egypt took control on Tunisia from the beginning. Already at the halftime Egypt was 53-31 up. Nothing has changed after the breather and Egypt cruised to 117-67 victory at the end. Of course, second place belongs to Tunisia. Egypt ended Preliminary Round as No.1 of Group A with perfect 3-0 record. They smashed Congo-Brazaville in the Quarterfinals 128-33.

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ESTONIA

Latvia U16 prevail against Estonian team in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U16-Latvia U16 57:83

Latvia U16 tied their record at 1-1 at the Baltic Cup 2011 after the win over Estonia U16. The Latvian side won 83:57 in Day 2 of the tournament.
Latvia took the lead quickly and grabbed 13:8 after the first five minutes int he court. They increased to 23-12 after the first quarter and got 33:21 in the middle of the second. Another push allowed them to taste 44:27 advantage at the halftime. Trailing 32:55, Estonia made the biggest run in the game for 6-0 and reduced to 55:38. Latvia meanwhile enjoyed the biggest lead at 67:53 adding a 9-0 run for 78:53. Latvia won the last quarter 21-14 to seal the victory.
Kristaps Gluditis (188-G-95) and Danis Geks top-scored for the winners with 14 points each, while Rolands Smits (95) posted 10. Armands Ginters (193-F-95) followed them with 9 points for the initial victory. Saimon Sutt (168-G-95) answered with 20 points in the losing effort and Kristofer Kurvits (192-G/F-96) scored 12.

Estonia U16: Saimon Sutt 20, Kristofer Kurvits 12
Latvia U16: Kristaps Gluditis 14, Danis Geks 14, Rolands Smits 10, Armands Ginters 9

U20: Shengelia wins the battle over Veideman - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U20-Georgia U20 87:88

The last game of Day 4 at the European Championship became the most interesting as Estonia and Georgia entered the court undefeated and struggled for the top place in Group A. Tornike Shengelia (207-G/F-91) wins the battle over Rain Veideman (192-G-91) as his Georgia celebrated 87:86 win.
Gerogia won the opening quarter 21:16 and Dvalishvili scored for 27:18 in the start of the second. Estonia won the second frame 27-24 and reduced to 2 points at the halftime. Georgia pushed the tempo a bit in the third period and went on a bigger lead. Tornike Shengelia increased to 63:58 scoring his 26 points at that time. Beqa Chikviladze (195-G-91) drove a lay-up to close the third period at 68:62. The last quarter Georgia started even better and went on the final surge and could win the game due to the last shot. At first Tenieshvili and Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) nailed threes for 77:66 and Tornike Shengelia scored his 29 points for 79:66. Kaldre and Puidet reduced to 79:71 with 5 minutes to play, but Tornike Shengelia scored for 81:71. Rain Veideman meanwhile scored seven points in a row for 81:78 to post his 25th points with almost 4 minutes to go. Tornike Shengelia made two free throws for 83:78 and Rain Veideman brought 87:86 with 12 seconds. Bokolishvili however made the last successful shot to bring the necessary win for Georgia.
Tornike Shengelia erupted with 33 points and 15 rebounds for perfect 4-0 record. Beqa Chikviladze ended up with 17 and Duda Sanadze nailed 14. Rain Veideman exploded with 34 points in defeat and Martin Dorbek (191-G-91) scored 16.

Estonia U20: Rain Veideman 34, Martin Dorbek 16
Georgia U20: Tornike Shengelia 33+15 rebs, Beqa Chikviladze 17, Duda Sanadze 14

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EUROLEAGUE

Latest Euroleague signings - by Eurobasket News
For most German basketball fans, the infamous hot dog scandal will remain in the minds of fans when one rememebrs the name Marcus Slaughter (204-C/F-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: San Diego St.) but the American also is known as being an impressive basketball player. Slaughter returns back to the beko BBL after having played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in the 2008-2009 season. Just as German basketball fans were getting used to Slaughter tearing up the league with 18.8ppg, 10.0rpg, 1.3apg, 2.6spg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 60.0%, FT: 68.5% in 8 games, he had to leave the team on account of disciplinary reasons. Slaughter returns back to Germany and will play for 3 time Beko BBL champion Brose Baskets Bamberg and get his first taste of Euroleague basketball. Last season,Slaughter played for Blancos de Rueda Valladolid (Spain-ACB) 34 games: 9.9ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.4spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 65.0%, FT: 67.5%. Terms of his contract were not disclosed. Slaughter started his basketball career in 2003 where he played for San Diego St. (NCAA) where he played until 2006. In his senior season, he put up overwelming double double stats playing 30 games: 16.5ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 49%, FT: 76.2%. In 2006-2007, he turned professional and came to Europe to play for Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir (Turkey-D1): 29 games: 13.3ppg, Reb-3 (10.2rpg), 1.3apg, 2.3spg, 2FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 67.2%. In 2007-2008, he started with the Miami Heat (NBA), only pre-season, then moved to Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem (Israel-Premier League): Israeli League: 8.0ppg, 6.4rpg, ULEB Cup: 5 games: 5.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, waived in Dec.'07, in Jan.'08 signed at BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral (France-ProA, starting five): 15 games: 9.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP-3 (63.2%), FT: 58.9%. In 2009-2010, he played in France for Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-ProA): EuroCup: 6 games: 8.5ppg, 9.0rpg, 2.8spg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 50.0%, FT: 76.7%; French League: 29 games: 12.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.5spg, Blocks-5 (1.4bpg), FGP: 64.5%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 69.1%. Awards/Achievements in his career have been All-MWC Honorable Mention -04, MWC Tournament Semifinals -05, All-MWC 2nd Team -05, USBWA All-NCAA District IX Team -06, MWC Regular Season Champion -06, MWC Tournament Winner -06, MWC Tournament MVP -06, MWC All-Tournament Team -06, All-MWC 1st Team -06, Turkish Cup Semifinals -07, Turkish League All-Star Game -07, Eurobasket.com Turkish League 2nd Team -07, Eurobasket.com Turkish League All-Defensive Team -07, and Eurobasket.com All-French ProA 2nd Team -10. Source: Brose Baskets Bamberg (by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber)

Abdoulaye Loum (210-F-91) is a new member of Gravelines Dunkerque. The 20-year-old big guy and his Gravelines will play in Euroleague Qualifying Round. He arrives to the club from Le Havre, where he mostly played for U21 and junior team. Loum was one of the top performers in the French league for juniors last season. There, he averaged 13.3 points and 11.6 rebounds. He also had 1.9 bpg and 1.7 spg for Le Havre. Abdoulaye Loum is active member of the French U20 National Team. He played for U18 France in the past. Gravelines Dunkerque is placed to Qualifying Group A. Their first rival will be ASVEL.

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

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

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.

Anadolu Efes have announced the signing of Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84). The guard penned a one-year deal with the Turkish powerhouse. Sasha Vujacic arrives from the New Jersey Nets. The guard posted 11.4 points and 2.3 assists per game in 56 NBA games last season. The 27-year-old Vujacic played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 2004 until December of 2010. With the Lakers, Vujacic had 2.5 ppg for 8 games last season. Vujacic won two NBA rings with the Lakers (2009, 2010). Sasha Vujacic started basketball career with Polzela. In 2000, he moved to Snaidero Unide where he stayed four years. In 2004, we was selected as 24th overall pick at NBA Draft. He played for the Slovenian NT in the past.

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.

Union Olimpija have strengthened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Ben Woodside (180-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Dakota St.). The 26-year-old guard had a solid season with Gravelines. He averaged 13.7 points, 5.7 assists, 3.2 boards and 1.5 steals per game in ProA. In EuroChallenge Ben Woodside posted 18.5 points, 5.5 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.4 steals per appearance. Eurobasket.com named the guard into All-EuroChallenge 1st Team. Ben Woodside also led Gravelines to French La Semaine des AS Cup title. It was the second straight season with Gravelines for Ben Woodside. He graduated from North Dakota State University in 2009. His stats read 23.2 points, 3.2 boards, 6.2 assists and 1.4 steals per game in senior college season. Ben Woodside earned AP NCAA All-America Honourable Mention.

Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83) will continue his career in Turkey. The Uruguayan centre has agreed on terms of contract with Anadolu Efes. Esteban Batista has lately split ways with Caja Laboral. Two sides terminated their deal. Batista joined former Spanish champions in January from Fuenlabrada. He appeared in 10 Euroleague games with Caja Laboral averaging 8.4 points and 6.3 rebounds. In ACB, Batista added 7 ppg and 4.8 rpg. Batista had 12.7 ppg and 8.4 rpg in 14 games with Fuenla last season. Esteban Batista played for Fuenlabrada also in 2009/10. He shone with 14.1 ppg and 8.4 rpg for 31 games in ACB. He ended the season as the best league reboudner. Before Fuenla, Batista played for Maccabi Electra, Triumph Lyubertsy and Libertad. He also has experience from the Italian Sassari. Batista was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB 2nd Team -11 and Eurobasket.com Spanish ACB All-Imports Team -11. He has been the member of the Uruguayan National Team since 2003.

Real Madrid have officially announced the signing of contract with Jaycee Carroll (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports). The deal is meant for three seasons. Jaycee Carroll spent the last season with Gran Canaria. The guard averaged 19.3 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in ACB. He was the top scorer in the Spanish League. In EuroCup Jaycee Carroll posted 18.8 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.6 assists per appearance. The guard also showed the best result in scoring in the tournament. Eurobasket.com named Jaycee Carroll All-Spanish ACB Import Player of the Year. He also made it into All-EuroCup 2nd Team for the second season in a row. Jaycee Carroll played for Banca Tercas before joining Gran Canaria in 2009.

Unics Kazan announced signing of Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois). The experienced American guard penned a two-year deal with the reigning EuroCup champion. Domercant heads to Unics from Spartak St. Petersburg, where he spent last season. He appeared 33 times for the club averaging 15.7 points and 1.3 steals in Russian league. He also had 16.9 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.5 apg in EuroChallenge. Domercant helped Spartak reach the Semifinals in this competition. Before Spartak, Henry Domercant paced Montepaschi to back-to-back Italian League and Italian Cup titles in his two seasons in Siena. In the past, he also was a member of Efes Pilsen and Olympiakos. However, the player never reached Euroleague Final Four in his career. With Dynamo Moscow, Henry Domercant played in the ULEB Cup Semifinals in 2008. In 2005 with Efes Pilsen, Domercant won the Turkish league title. He is a product of the Eastern Illinois University, where he set school records in scoring with 27.9 points per game as a senior. His first job as a pro came with Pinar Karsiyaka in 2003.

Cholet is set to sign contract extension with their Head Coach Erman Kunter . The Turkish specialist will stay with the club until the end of 2012/13 season. Kunter took over Cholet in 2006. He helped them win the ProA title in 2010. Last season, Cholet reached the Finals and was very close to defend the trophy. However, Nancy grabbed thriller win at the end. Kanter also won the French Supercup with Cholet in 2010. Two years before that, Cholet won the Semaine des As Cup.
Before Cholet, Erman Kunter worked one year with ASVEL. He was coaching Cholet also in 2003/04 season. In the past, Kunter was a Head Coach of Galatasaray and Darussafaka. He was named Eurobasket All-Turkish League Coach of the Year -03. In 1998 and 1999, Kanter was a Head Coach of the Turkish National Team.

Lawrence Roberts (205-F/C-82, college: Mississippi St.) is a new member of Lietuvos Rytas. The American power forward penned a two-year deal with his new club. Roberts arrives to Rytas from Efes Pilsen, where he spent last season. He appeared 16 times in Euroleague for them averaging 6.5 points and 5.1 rebounds. In TBL, Roberts added 8.1 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 31 games. Lawrence Roberts joined Efes Pilsen last summer from Partizan Belgrade. With the Serbian powerhouse he reached Euroleague Final Four in 2010. They also won the Serbian and Adriatic league titles that season, plus trophy in Serbian Cup. Roberts was one of the best players of Partizan. In the past, Roberts played for Crvena Zvezda and Memphis Grizzlies. He is a product of the Mississippi State University.

Olympiakos announced signing of Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) to a one-year contract extension. The Greek forward returned to Olympiakos in April this year. He started last season with Unicaja Malaga. For 19 games in ACB, Printezis averaged 6.2 points and 2.1 rebounds. He also added 5.6 ppg and 2.7 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. He played for Unicaja in 2009/10 season as well. At that time, Printezis had 9.8 ppg and 3.4 rpg in Spain, plus 11.7 ppg and 4.3 rpg in Euroleague. Georgios Printezis played for Olympiakos from 2002 to 2009. Actually, he spent one season on loan with Olimpia GE Parissa. It was in 2006/07. Georgios Printezis played for the Greek National Team from 2008 until the last summer. In FIBA World Championship in Turkey he had 3.8 ppg and 1.6 rpg for 5 games.

Milovan Rakovic (208-C-85) will play next season for Zalgiris Kaunas. Montepaschi Siena loaned Rakovic to Zalgiris for 2011/12. The Serbian big guy joined Montepaschi last summer from Spartak St. Petersburg. He appeared 22 times for them in Euroleague averaging 8 points and 3.8 rebounds. In SerieA, Rakovic added 7.6 ppg and 3.3 rpg. He helped Montepaschi win the SerieA title and Italian Cup. They also reached Euroleague Final Four. Season 2009/10, Milovan Rakovic spent with Spartak St. Petersburg. He shined with 15.2 ppg, 6.4 rpg and 1.5 apg for them in 17 Russian league games. Rakovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Russian A Superleague Center of the Year -10. In EuroCup, he added 14.3 ppg and 6 rpg for 6 games. In the past, Rakovic was a member of Mega Ishrana, Atlas Banka, Polet Keramika Novi Becej and Partizan.

Gravelines adds young Abdoulaye Loum - by Eurobasket News
Abdoulaye Loum (210-F-91) is a new member of Gravelines Dunkerque. The 20-year-old big guy and his Gravelines will play in Euroleague Qualifying Round. He arrives to the club from Le Havre, where he mostly played for U21 and junior team. Loum was one of the top performers in the French league for juniors last season. There, he averaged 13.3 points and 11.6 rebounds. He also had 1.9 bpg and 1.7 spg for Le Havre. Abdoulaye Loum is active member of the French U20 National Team. He played for U18 France in the past. Gravelines Dunkerque is placed to Qualifying Group A. Their first rival will be ASVEL.

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16

Andorra and San Marino to clash in the Final - by Eurobasket News
Semifinals
Andorra U16 - Malta U16 76:49
Andorra became the first finalists at U16 European Championship in Division C. They rallied past Malta in the opening semifinal in Sam Marino. Jordi Moline stepped up with 30 points to lead the charge.
Andorra stayed in charge throughout the whole encounter. They recorded a 20:8 lead after ten minutes. Andorra maintained the lead throughout the second period. They registered a 38:20 halftime lead. Andorra did not slow down after the big break. They stretched the margin to 26 points with one quarter remaining and rolled to the victory at the end. Oriol Peral accounted for 14 points and 8 rebounds for Andorra. Juan Bustamante and Victor Lopez had 10 points each in the win. Aaron Falzon answered with 24 points and 22 rebounds for Malta. Christopher Cordina had 12 points in the loss.

Andorra U16: Jordi Moline 30, Oriol Peral 14, Juan Bustamante 10, Victor Lopez 10
Malta U16: Aaron Falzon 24+22 boards, Christopher Cordina 12

San Marino U16 - Wales U16 80:73
San Marino booked their spot at home U16 European Championship in Division C. They fired past Wales to set up the clash versus Andorra in the championship game. Julian Gualtieri was unstoppable with 40 points and 15 rebounds for San Marino.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. San Marino eked out a narrow 18:17 lead after ten minutes. Wales however erased the deficit and surged ahead for a 33:28 halftime advantage. San Marino turned things around in the third quarter. The hosts exploded with 27 points to ensure a 5-point lead with one quarter remaining. Wales tied things at 60 midway through the final term. But Julian Gualtieri scored 6 points in a 9:2 run that restored the lead for San Marino. The hosts withheld all comeback efforts from Wales in the dying seconds to seal the victory at the end. Luca Giannotti added 13 points for San Marino. Igor Biordi contributed 7 points and 10 rebounds in the win. Daniel Walsh provided 23 points and 8 rebounds for Wales. Joshua Reade had 14 points and 14 boards in the loss.

San Marino U16: Julian Gualtieri 40+15 boards, Luca Giannotti 13, Igor Biordi 7+10 boards
Wales U16: Daniel Walsh 23, Joshua Reade 14+14 boards

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20

Results and Stats from Day 4 in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News

Group A

Poland - Switzerland 86-75
Poland finally won the game after the two losses in a row in Division B of the European Championship. Poland improved to 2-2 after 86:75 win over Switzerland in Sarajevo. Both teams were tied at 8:8, while Dubas brought 12:9 for the Swiss side. Szumelda-Krzycki closed the first period at 28:22 and Zyskowski gave Poland plus 10 in the start of the second frame. Poland won also the second period 23-17 as Parzenski sent the squads to the lockers at 51:39. Poland did not even think of slowing down and after 23-13 reached 74:52 after thirty minutes. Switzerland however was too far to give up and did their best to recover. Jeremy Jaunin (170-PG-91) nailed three to reduce to 77:66, while Gardner Louissaint (196-F-91) scored four in a row for 83:72. Dubas was the last to score in the game for 86:75 that became the final score. Sokolowski stepped up with 19 points for 2-2 record. Sebastian Szymanski (186-G-91, agency: Promotex) scored 18 and Mlynarski netted 10. Dubas replied with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Gardner Louissaint nailed 12.

Romania - FYR Macedonia 49-64
FYR Macedonia opened win count at U20 European Championship in Division B. They held off Romania to improve at 1-3 record in Group A. Romania meanwhile fell at 2-2 record after the loss. Nikola Gajdadjiev (193-G-92) stepped up with 17 points to lead the winners. The teams traded baskets early in the encounter but FYR Macedonia used an 8:2 run late in the starting quarter to take a 19:12 lead. Romania got within a single points midway through the second term but Nikola Gajdadjiev triggered another 8:0 spurt as FYR Macedonia grabbed a 36:27 lead. They finished the first half up by 10 points 38:28. Nikola Gajdadjiev and Lazar Petrov boosted the lead to 16 points midway through the third term. FYR Macedonia posted a 52:40 lead with one quarter remaining. FYR Macedonia kept their opponents at bay throughout the final frame and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Lazar Petrov finished with 15 points, while Dzaner Osman added 13 points and 9 rebounds in the victory. Vlad Corpodean (197-F-91) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds for Romania. Bogdan Tibirna provided 14 points in the loss. Romania got outrebounded 34:48 and shot woeful 8% from beyond the arc (2/26).

Estonia U20-Georgia U20 87-88

The last game of Day 4 at the European Championship became the most interesting as Estonia and Georgia entered the court undefeated and struggled for the top place in Group A. Tornike Shengelia (207-G/F-91) wins the battle over Rain Veideman (192-G-91) as his Georgia celebrated 87:86 win.
Gerogia won the opening quarter 21:16 and Dvalishvili scored for 27:18 in the start of the second. Estonia won the second frame 27-24 and reduced to 2 points at the halftime. Georgia pushed the tempo a bit in the third period and went on a bigger lead. Tornike Shengelia increased to 63:58 scoring his 26 points at that time. Beqa Chikviladze (195-G-91) drove a lay-up to close the third period at 68:62. The last quarter Georgia started even better and went on the final surge and could win the game due to the last shot. At first Tenieshvili and Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) nailed threes for 77:66 and Tornike Shengelia scored his 29 points for 79:66. Kaldre and Puidet reduced to 79:71 with 5 minutes to play, but Tornike Shengelia scored for 81:71. Rain Veideman meanwhile scored seven points in a row for 81:78 to post his 25th points with almost 4 minutes to go. Tornike Shengelia made two free throws for 83:78 and Rain Veideman brought 87:86 with 12 seconds. Bokolishvili however made the last successful shot to bring the necessary win for Georgia.
Tornike Shengelia erupted with 33 points and 15 rebounds for perfect 4-0 record. Beqa Chikviladze ended up with 17 and Duda Sanadze nailed 14. Rain Veideman exploded with 34 points in defeat and Martin Dorbek (191-G-91) scored 16.

Group B

Bulgaria - Slovakia 65-58
Bulgaria earned the second win at U20 European Championship in Division B. They shot down Slovak Republic to improve at 2-1 record in Group B. Slovak Republic on the other hand fell at 2-1 record after the loss. Stanislav Tsonkov (192-G-91) scored 16 points to pace the winners. Bulgaria pulled in front midway through the starting quarter. Slovak Republic stayed close but Bulgaria managed to take a 19:16 lead at the first break. Bulgaria opened the second frame with seven points in a row to boost the lead. They kept Slovak Republic at distance in the reminder of the period posting a 39:35 halftime lead. Jaroslav Moravek (200-F/C-92) however put Slovak Republic in front midway through the third term. Plamen Hristov (197-F/G-91), Radev and Dafinov regained the lead for the Bulgarian side as they entered the final frame up by 2 points 50:48. Bulgaria nailed 7 points in a row at the start of the fourth period to take a 9-point advantage. Plamen Hristov made a double-digit lead with three minutes remaining. Slovak Republic never got back to life and had to surrender at the end. Konstantin Koev provided 15 points for Bulgaria. Plamen Hristov added 11 points and 10 rebounds in the victory. Jaroslav Moravek responded with 21 points and 16 rebounds for Slovak Republic. Tomas Mrvis accounted for 14 points in defeat.

Denmark - Holland 78-72
Denmark celebrated the third straight win at the U20 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Netherlands to stay on top of Group B. Netherlands in the meantime slipped at 1-3 record in the ladder. Jonas Bergstedt (210-C-91) stepped up with 21 points and 16 rebounds to pace the winners. Denmark jumped in front early in the encounter and maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter. They posted a 21:16 lead after ten minutes. Brandt helped the Dutch team level things up at 32 late in the first half. But Bennedsen secured a 36:33 halftime lead for the Scandinavian team. Netherlands used a 7:0 run midway through the third quarter to pull in front. But Denmark recovered once again posting a 56:51 lead with one quarter remaining. Gyamfi and Jonas Bergstedt stretched the gap to 13 points early in the final period. Netherlands went on an 8:2 rally cutting the deficit but Berstedt and Thomas Laerke (194-G/F-91) hit three free throws in the dying seconds to seal the victory for Denmark. Thomas Laerke accounted for 20 points for Denmark. Alexander Bak (193-F-91) contributed 17 points in the victory. Dimeo Van Der Horst answered with 19 points for Netherlands. Leon Williams finished with 16 points in the loss.

Group C

Czech Republic - Finland 76-62
Czech Republic U20 wins Group C in Sarajevo at the U20 European Championship. The team recorded the fourth straight victory after 76:62 over Finland. Czech Republic won the opening tip 8-0 and never looked behind in the game. Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) however reduced to 17:15, while Ondrej Balvin (215-C-92) made a dunk for 27:18. Czech Republic added 24-17 in the second frame for 41:30 at the halftime. The third stanza was decisive in the game as it proved the winner. The favorites added 25-11 and Jaros closed the frame at 66:41. Finland managed to win the last stanza 21-10 to reduce the gap in the game. Peterka led the way with 17 points, while Ondrej Balvin collected 13 points and 11 rebounds. Tomas Vyoral (188-PG-92) followed them with 11 points and Halada nailed 10. Kopio and Antto Nikkarinen (185-PG-91) posted 13 points each in defeat and Carl Lindbom netted 10.

Portugal - Luxembourg 76-56
Portugal improved to 3-1 record at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team rolled over Luxembourg 76:56 in Day 4. Portugal easily started with 9-0 run and then enjoyed 15-2 lead. Carlos Ferreirinho (200-F/G-91) made a jump shot at the end of the frame for 29:9. Luxembourg was too far to give up and erupted with 24-12 in the second period. Trailing 20:39, they reduce to 39:32 exploding with 12-0 run. Wilson sent the teams to the lockers at 41:33. It was still hot in the court after the third quarter when Portugal managed to add 14-9. They also won the last period 21-14 to seal the victory. Miguel Queiroz (202-C/F-91) was unstoppable with 20 points and 18 rebounds, while Carlos Ferreirinho netted 18. Cardoso ended up with 15 and Azevedo notched 12. Wolzfeld produced 14 points in defeat and Wilson scored 13.

United Kingdom - Norway 78-64
Great Britain post the second straight win in Sarajevo at the European Championship. After defeating Luxembourg U20 last night, they overcame Norway U20 78:64. It was a tough start for both teams that stayed close to each other. The team from Great Britain grabbed 19-18 after the first 10 minutes and then both teams nailed 11 points each in the second frame. The final push the winners made in the third period winning it 27-18. Bouna Ndiaye and Karamo Jawara (200-F-91) reduced to 57:52 early in the fourth, while Alasdair Fraser scored for 59:52. Alasdair Fraser closed an 8-0 run for the team from Great Britain and Bohn broke the silence for his side. Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) scored for 71:54 with 5 minutes to go when it finally became known about the winner. Bouna Ndiaye and Alasdair Fraser later exchanged the shots, while Karamo Jawara reduced to 73:58. Alex Marcotullio nailed three for 76:61 and Karamo Jawara scored again for 76:64. Van Oostrum made the final score in the game as his side is with 2-2 record. Alasdair Fraser paced all the winners with 23 points and Ryan Richards followed him with 20. Karamo Jawara ended up with 25 points in the losing case and Berg netted 16.

Group D

Israel - Belarus 111-88
Israel scored 111 points to win over Belarus in Day 4 of the U20 European Championship. The team allowed the team from Belarus to post 88 in Division B game on Sunday. Belarus scored first 4 points in the game, while Timor gave the winning side 8:6. The first period became offensive in the court and Israel took 27:17 lead. Moreover the teams scored 70! Points in the second frame as Israel won 39-31 to increase to 66:48 at the halftime. Sean Labanowski (203-F/C-92) and Lavie scored for 71:50, while Tom Havkin (202-F-91, agency: Avi Zilberman) closed the period at 87:68. Ber Aven scored a lay-up at 100:73 with 5 minutes to go and then Israel saved the victory. Jonathan Sztarkman (188-PG-91) stepped up with 27 points for the winners and Tishman nailed 17. Lavie scored 13, whilst Timor had 11. Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) ended up with 28 points in the losing effort and Salauyou scored 16.

Iceland - Belgium 69-80
Belgium wins Group D of the European Championship in Division B. The top team celebrated the fourth consecutive win in the first game of Day 4 and will have a break tomorrow. Belgium edged Iceland 80:69 as Dennis Donkor (194-G/F-91) erupted with 26 points and 5 rebounds. Belgium started strong taking 22:6 in the middle of the first period. Iceland however finished the quarter with a big run as Aegir Steinarsson closed it for 24:29. Belgium replied with 13-0 run and Dennis Donkor scored for 42:24. Haukur Palsson (198-F-92) reduced to 62:41, while Aegir Steinarsson closed the third frame at 69:52. Iceland won the fourth period 17-11 for the final 80:69 result. Maarten Rademakers (205-C/F-91) nailed 12 points for the winners and Pierre-Antoine Gillet netted 11. Haukur Palsson collected massive 28 points and 11 rebounds in defeat and Aegir Steinarsson notched 15.

M-Standings - Division B

Standings Div.B

Group A
1. Georgia		4-0
2. Estonia		3-1
3. Poland		2-2
4. Romania		2-2
5. FYR Macedo.		1-3
6. Switzerlan.		0-4
Group B
1. Denmark		3-0
2. Bulgaria		2-1
3. Slovakia		2-1
4. Holland		1-3
5. Hungary		0-3
Group C
1. Czech Rep.		4-0
2. Portugal		3-1
3. U.Kingdom		2-2
4. Finland		2-2
5. Norway		1-3
6. Luxembourg.		0-4
Group D
1. Belgium		4-0
2. Bosnia		2-1
3. Israel		2-1
4. Belarus		0-3
5. Iceland		0-3

Standings

Group E
1. Russia		2-0
2. France		2-0
3. Latvia		1-1
4. Montenegro		1-1
5. Slovenia		0-2
6. Sweden		0-2
Group F
1. Spain		2-0
2. Italy		2-0
3. Germany		1-1
4. Greece		1-1
5. Turkey		0-2
6. Ukraine		0-2
Group Places 13-16
1. Austria		0-0
2. Croatia		0-0
3. Lithuania		0-0
4. Serbia		0-0

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FINLAND

FRANCE

Gravelines adds young Abdoulaye Loum - by Eurobasket News
Abdoulaye Loum (210-F-91) is a new member of Gravelines Dunkerque. The 20-year-old big guy and his Gravelines will play in Euroleague Qualifying Round. He arrives to the club from Le Havre, where he mostly played for U21 and junior team. Loum was one of the top performers in the French league for juniors last season. There, he averaged 13.3 points and 11.6 rebounds. He also had 1.9 bpg and 1.7 spg for Le Havre. Abdoulaye Loum is active member of the French U20 National Team. He played for U18 France in the past. Gravelines Dunkerque is placed to Qualifying Group A. Their first rival will be ASVEL.

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FYR MACEDONIA

KK Torus Skopje add two players - by Eurobasket Center
Balkan League team KK Torus Skopje signed two guards represented by Global Sports Plaza. The first one is 27-year old international guard Dimitar Karadzovski (189-G-84). Karadzovski played most recently at Rilski Sportist Samokov (Bulgaria). While playing 12 games in Balkan League for Rilski Sportist last season he recorded 9.3ppg, 2.5rpg and 2.6apg. He also played 36 games in Bulgarian League and his stats were 11.6ppg, 3.3rpg and 3.2apg. He helped Rilski to make it to Bulgarian League semifinals and Balkan league final. The second newcomer at Torus is American guard Bryan Harrison (188-G-84, college: Georgia Coll.) (188-G-84) from Lithuanian second division (NKL) team Mazeikai. Harrison was pne of the top players in the league. He averaged impressive 13.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 6.9apg (#1 in league), 2.7spg (#1 in league). He was selected to Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian NKL 1st Team and All-Defensive Team. Mazeikai made it to NKL final.

By Eurobasket Data Center

U20: FYR Macedonia topple Romania in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
FYR Macedonia U20 - Romania U20 64:49

FYR Macedonia opened win count at U20 European Championship in Division B. They held off Romania to improve at 1-3 record in Group A. Romania meanwhile fell at 2-2 record after the loss. Nikola Gajdadjiev (193-G-92) stepped up with 17 points to lead the winners.
The teams traded baskets early in the encounter but FYR Macedonia used an 8:2 run late in the starting quarter to take a 19:12 lead. Romania got within a single points midway through the second term but Nikola Gajdadjiev triggered another 8:0 spurt as FYR Macedonia grabbed a 36:27 lead. They finished the first half up by 10 points 38:28. Nikola Gajdadjiev and Lazar Petrov (209-C-91) boosted the lead to 16 points midway through the third term. FYR Macedonia posted a 52:40 lead with one quarter remaining. FYR Macedonia kept their opponents at bay throughout the final frame and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Lazar Petrov finished with 15 points, while Dzaner Osman (194-F/G-91) added 13 points and 9 rebounds in the victory. Vlad Corpodean (197-F-91) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds for Romania. Bogdan Tibirna (210-C-91) provided 14 points in the loss. Romania got outrebounded 34:48 and shot woeful 8% from beyond the arc (2/26).

FYR Macedonia U20: Nikola Gajdadjiev 17, Lazar Petrov 15, Dzaner Osman 13
Romania U20: Vlad Corpodean 16, Bogdan Tibirna 14

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GEORGIA

U20: Shengelia wins the battle over Veideman - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U20-Georgia U20 87:88

The last game of Day 4 at the European Championship became the most interesting as Estonia and Georgia entered the court undefeated and struggled for the top place in Group A. Tornike Shengelia (207-G/F-91) wins the battle over Rain Veideman (192-G-91) as his Georgia celebrated 87:86 win.
Gerogia won the opening quarter 21:16 and Dvalishvili scored for 27:18 in the start of the second. Estonia won the second frame 27-24 and reduced to 2 points at the halftime. Georgia pushed the tempo a bit in the third period and went on a bigger lead. Tornike Shengelia increased to 63:58 scoring his 26 points at that time. Beqa Chikviladze (195-G-91) drove a lay-up to close the third period at 68:62. The last quarter Georgia started even better and went on the final surge and could win the game due to the last shot. At first Tenieshvili and Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) nailed threes for 77:66 and Tornike Shengelia scored his 29 points for 79:66. Kaldre and Puidet reduced to 79:71 with 5 minutes to play, but Tornike Shengelia scored for 81:71. Rain Veideman meanwhile scored seven points in a row for 81:78 to post his 25th points with almost 4 minutes to go. Tornike Shengelia made two free throws for 83:78 and Rain Veideman brought 87:86 with 12 seconds. Bokolishvili however made the last successful shot to bring the necessary win for Georgia.
Tornike Shengelia erupted with 33 points and 15 rebounds for perfect 4-0 record. Beqa Chikviladze ended up with 17 and Duda Sanadze nailed 14. Rain Veideman exploded with 34 points in defeat and Martin Dorbek (191-G-91) scored 16.

Estonia U20: Rain Veideman 34, Martin Dorbek 16
Georgia U20: Tornike Shengelia 33+15 rebs, Beqa Chikviladze 17, Duda Sanadze 14

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GERMANY

New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig lands Nicolas Williams - by Eurobasket News
Nick Williams (192-G-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Cincinnati) is a new member of New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. The American guard penned a one-year deal with his new team. He arrives to Braunschweig from the Ukrainian team Politekhnika-Halychyna, where he spent last two years. Williams appeared 48 times with them last season averaging 14.4 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.4 assists. In 2009/10, he exploded with 18 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 2.2 apg. Williams participated at the Ukrainian league All-Star Game 2010. Nick Williams played for Atomeromu in 2008/09. He helped the club win Hungarian league title with 16.7 ppg, 3.7 rppg, 2.8 apg and 1.7 spg. In 2007/08, Williams was a member of PVSK Panthers and was one of their best players. He also has experience from Bosna ASA BHT. Williams is a University of Cincinnati product, where he graduated in 2005.

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GREECE

Kompodietas

Theos

Papanikolaou

Katiakos

Godopoulos

*4 Nicou Thomas (185-G-79) of Alfa Alimos
*5 Dimitrios Kompodietas (195-G-85) of Panellinios Lamia
6 Antonis Godopoulos (185-G-81) of AE Doxa Lefkadas
7 Dionysios Kapiniaris (185-G-91) of Ilysiakos Athens
8 Nikos Tsoutsos (202-F-82) of Near East
9 Giorgos Tirlas (197-G/F-80) of Panelefsiniakos AOK
10 Themis Koupidis (198-G-84) of NSU Neckarsulm Germany

11 Yiannis Psathas (201-F-83) of Psyhiko Athens
*12 Serafeim Theos (204-F-84) of GAS AETOS
*13 Nikolaos Papanikolaou (209-F-85) of AEK Athens
14 Alekos Petroulas (202-F-78) of DASH Peristeri GS Athens
*15 Dimitris Katiakos (205-C/F-87) of SEFA Arkadikos
Head Coach: Giorgos Skropolithas
Assistant Coach: Giannis Milonas

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HOLLAND

ICELAND

U20: Belgium wins Group D of the European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Iceland U20-Belgium U20 69:80

Belgium wins Group D of the European Championship in Division B. The top team celebrated the fourth consecutive win in the first game of Day 4 and will have a break tomorrow. Belgium edged Iceland 80:69 as Dennis Donkor (194-G/F-91) erupted with 26 points and 5 rebounds.
Belgium started strong taking 22:6 in the middle of the first period. Iceland however finished the quarter with a big run as Aegir Steinarsson (182-G-91) closed it for 24:29. Belgium replied with 13-0 run and Dennis Donkor scored for 42:24. Haukur Palsson (198-F-92) reduced to 62:41, while Aegir Steinarsson closed the third frame at 69:52. Iceland won the fourth period 17-11 for the final 80:69 result.
Maarten Rademakers (205-C/F-91) nailed 12 points for the winners and Pierre-Antoine Gillet (202-F-91) netted 11. Haukur Palsson collected massive 28 points and 11 rebounds in defeat and Aegir Steinarsson notched 15.

Iceland U20: Haukur Palsson 28+11 rebs, Aegir Steinarsson 15
Belgium U20: Dennis Donkor 26, Maarten Rademakers 12, Pierre-Antoine Gillet 11, Terry Deroover (180-G-91) 10

Snaefell bring in Quincy Hankins-Cole - by Eurobasket News
Quincy Hankins-Cole (203-F) will his start pro career in Iceland. The forward has agreed on terms of contract with Snaefell. Quincy Hankins-Cole has just graduated from the Pikeville College. The forward posted 12.9 points, 8.0 boards, 1.3 steals and 1.1 assists per game in his senior season. Quincy Hankins-Cole became NAIA D1 Champion. He also made it into NAIA D1 All-Tournament Team.

Justin Shouse extends with Stjarnan - by Eurobasket News
Stjarnan ensured the services of one of their leaders Justin Shouse (180-G-81, college: Mercyhurst) for another season. The 29-year-old guard will enter his fourth season with Stjarnan. Last season Justin Shouse posted 18.7 points, 6.2 assists, 4.0 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game. He led Stjarnan into Express League Final. Justin Shouse earned All-Icelandic League Honourable Mention. In 2009/10 season Eurobasket.com named the guard All-Icelandic League Import Player of the Year. The player became All-Icelandic Defensive Player of the Year back in 2007. He also made it into All-Icelandic League 1st Team for three seasons in a row (2008, 2009 and 2010). Before joining Stjarnan Justin Shouse had stints with Snaefell and Drangur in Iceland and Bergheim Bandits in Germany. Justin Shouse received Icelandic citizenship in June.

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INDONESIA

Former NBA Slam Dunk Champion came to Indonesia - by Koko Triloka
Fans of Indonesia's basketball again had the privilege of visiting the United States basketball star competition (NBA). After some time ago a number of former players, now turn to the active players in attendance. Nate Robinson, Oklahoma City Thunder guard points, Nate Robinson, made sure comes into the country and present themselves during the period of 23 to 26 July 2011.

In Indonesia, 27-year-old basketball player will be present in the final league basketball student on July 23 in DBL Arena Surabaya, as well as the Honda program Development Basketball League (DBL) 2011. Not only that, for two consecutive days, 24-25 July, she also trains the best high school players from all over Indonesia.

On the last day before flying back to the U.S., he was in Jakarta to attend the various activities of commercial and non-commercial use only. He claimed not wait to come to Indonesia, and feel the atmosphere of basketball, especially among teenagers.

'I've never been to Indonesia, a country that was far away. On the other hand, I am very excited to feel the immediate atmosphere of enthusiasm for basketball is. I think Indonesia can be a wonderful base for NBA fans in particular, and basketball in general,' said Nate, in release committee.

The man who nicknamed Nate the Great is promised to deliver some of the best things that has, including a slam dunk action, which was made three times as king in the arena of the NBA All Star Game.

'Some people have told me that many fans in Indonesia. They are very enthusiastic, and it made me much more than just happy. Really, I can not imagine how their enthusiasm. I'll give what I have, and hope there pebasket Indonesia who work in the world internationally, 'said Nate.

Former Boston Celtics and New York Knicks is famous for its vertical leap which reaches 110 cm, he is still holding the highest in NBA history. Posture is short, 175 cm, the shortest second after Earl Boykins, not an obstacle for him to achievement.

'Posture is important, but it's not the main thing. Mentally, creativity and hard work are the most crucial part that must be owned by a basketball player at the NBA level. I think, should have more Asian basketball player in the NBA, and that opportunity is wide open,' he said.

Throughout a career since the 2006/2006 season, Nate scored an average of 111.3 per games, with the highest point when defending the New York Knicks in the season 2008/2009, ie an average of 17.2 numbers per games.

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ISRAEL

Ido Kozikaro joins Israeli summer league - by Carmel Drori
Ido Kozikaro (204-C/F-78) joined the Israeli summer league after Nir Golan (180-G-86) picked up an injury and had to drop out of the summer event.
Kozikaro would be without a doubt the most senior player in this upcoming summer league, and will play for Robby Belinko (agency: Gross Zeev ISA ) on team ''Pais''.
Kozikaro, who won't take part in this year's European Championship with the Israeli NT, explained his decision to join the summer league:''There's no better way to get yourself in shape and prepare yourself for the upcoming season. It's a very important project, giving young and talented players the opportunity to showcase their talent in front of 'Ligat Loto' coaches, and at the same time gives players like me the chance to play at a high-level. I thank the Israeli BSL Administration for their decision to organize such event, and I'm convinced we would have a great time.
Kozikaro who turned 33 this year averaged 6.1ppg and 4.7rpg in 18.4 minutes while playing for the Israeli runner-up Altshuler Saham Galil Gilboa.

U20: Israel scored three digits to outscore Belarus - by Eurobasket News
Israel U20-Belarus U20 111:88

Israel scored 111 points to win over Belarus in Day 4 of the U20 European Championship. The team allowed the team from Belarus to post 88 in Division B game on Sunday.
Belarus scored first 4 points in the game, while Bar Timor (192-G-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) gave the winning side 8:6. The first period became offensive in the court and Israel took 27:17 lead. Moreover the teams scored 70! Points in the second frame as Israel won 39-31 to increase to 66:48 at the halftime. Labanowski and Guy Lavie (188-PG-92) scored for 71:50, while Havkin closed the period at 87:68. Ber Aven scored a lay-up at 100:73 with 5 minutes to go and then Israel saved the victory.
Jonathan Sztarkman (188-PG-91) stepped up with 27 points for the winners and Nimrod Tishman (196-PG-91) nailed 17. Guy Lavie scored 13, whilst Bar Timor had 11. Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) ended up with 28 points in the losing effort and Mikalai Salauyou (191-G-91) scored 16.

Israel U20: Jonathan Sztarkman 27, Nimrod Tishman 17, Guy Lavie 13, Bar Timor 11
Belarus U20: Vitali Liutych 28, Mikalai Salauyou 16, Viktar Ausepian (205-F-91) 13

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ITALY

World Military Championship: Italy beat Kazakhstan in Brazil - by Eurobasket News
Italy - Kazakhstan 75:65

Italy celebrated the first win at World Military Championship in Rio de Janeiro. They shot down Kazakhstan in Group B opener. Patrick Baldassarre (200-F-86, agency: Players Group) stepped up with 21 points to lead the Azzurri.
Italy jumped in front early in the game and maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter. They recorded a 17:11 advantage at the first break. Italy boosted the lead in the second period. They arrived at halftime up by 11 points 40:29. Italy did not slow down in the third frame. They established a 61:49 advantage at the final break. Kazakhstan never recovered in the fourth quarter and had to surrender at the end. Roberto Prandin (188-G-86) accounted for 15 points for Italy. Luca Bertolini (190-G-85) contributed 9 points in the winning effort. Vsevolod Fadeikin (207-C-85) answered with 15 points and 9 rebounds for Kazakhstan. Dmitriy Gavrilov (203-F-86) accounted for 14 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.

Italy: Patrick Baldassarre 21, Roberto Prandin 15, Luca Bertolini 9
Kazakhstan: Vsevolod Fadeikin 15, Dmitriy Gavrilov 14

Scandone Avellino keeps Chevon Troutman - by Eurobasket News
Scandone Avellino announced signing of a one-year contract extension with Chevon Troutman (202-F-81, agency: ACMT, college: Pittsburgh). The American forward joined the club in 2009 from ASVEL. He appeared 16 times in SerieA last season averaging 14.6 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.7 steals. Tourtman missed almost four months due to injury. In 2009/10 season he had 12.7 ppg, 7.9 rpg and 2.6 spg for 29 games in the league. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA Honorable Mention -10. Chevon Troutman won the French league title with ASVEL in 2009. He helped them with 10.9 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 1.4 apg and 1.4 spg for 36 games. In 2008, ASVEL won the French Cup. Troutman was a member of ASVEL from 2006 to 2009. In the past he also played for Livorno. Troutman is a University of Pittsburgh product, where he graduated in 2005.

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JORDAN

Cyprus prevail against Jordan in Mogilev - by Eurobasket News
Cyprus - Jordan 74:68

Cypriot National Team celebrated the first win at the international friendly tournament in Belarus. They shot down Jordan to improve at 1-1 record. Aristides Koronidis (188-G-82) stepped up with 19 points to lead the charge. Jordan in the meantime slipped at 0-2 record. Cyprus will take on Ukraine, while Jordan will face hosting Belarus tonight.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes of action. Jordan and Cyprus continued to trade baskets throughout the second frame. They went into the locker rooms tied at 35. Cyprus managed to put their noses in front in the third term. They secured a narrow 50:49 lead with one quarter remaining. Led by Aristides Koronidis and Christopher Razis (193-F-89) Cyprus unloaded 24 points in the fourth term and clinched the victory at the end. Christopher Razis and Vassilis Kounas (195-G-84) knocked down 9 points apiece for the winners. Ayman Adais (208-C-78, agency: Court Side) answered with 19 points for Jordan. Wesam Al-Sous (183-G-83) finished with 16 points in the loss.

Cyprus: Aristides Koronidis 19, Christopher Razis 9, Vassilis Kounas 9
Jordan: Ayman Adais 19, Wesam Al-Sous 16

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KAZAKHSTAN

LATVIA

LITHUANIA

LUXEMBOURG

U20 Portugal remained Luxembourg winless in Group C - by Eurobasket News
Portugal U20-Luxembourg U20 76:56

Portugal improved to 3-1 record at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team rolled over Luxembourg 76:56 in Day 4.
Portugal easily started with 9-0 run and then enjoyed 15-2 lead. Carlos Ferreirinho (200-F/G-91) made a jump shot at the end of the frame for 29:9. Luxembourg was too far to give up and erupted with 24-12 in the second period. Trailing 20:39, they reduce to 39:32 exploding with 12-0 run. Derek Wilson (189-G/F-91) sent the teams to the lockers at 41:33. It was still hot in the court after the third quarter when Portugal managed to add 14-9. They also won the last period 21-14 to seal the victory.
Miguel Queiroz (202-C/F-91) was unstoppable with 20 points and 18 rebounds, while Carlos Ferreirinho netted 18. Miguel Cardoso (182-PG-93) ended up with 15 and Azevedo notched 12. Rene Wolzfeld (190-F-91) produced 14 points in defeat and Derek Wilson scored 13.

Portugal U20: Miguel Queiroz 20+18 rebs, Carlos Ferreirinho 18, Miguel Cardoso 15, Azevedo 12
Luxembourg U20: Rene Wolzfeld 14, Derek Wilson 13

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MALI

MONTENEGRO

Montenegro with win and loss in Yongcheng - by Eurobasket News
Montenegrin B National Team continued their Four-Nations tournament campaign in China. The teams now moved to Yongcheng for another round of games.
Montenegro opened the Yongcheng campaign with a 79:84 loss to Australia. Corey Maynard (190-G-91) came up with 23 points to lead the Aussies. Glidon and Trian Iliadis (190-G-89) delivered 11 points apiece for the winners. Marko Popovic (200-F-85) answered with 18 points for Montenegro. Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) contributed 16 points in the losing effort.
Next Montenegro took on Turkish B National Team. Montenegro claimed a 77:69 victory. It was the second Turkish loss to Montenegro at Four-Nations tournament. They also lost in Kunshan 78:92. Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87) paced Montenegro with 24 points. Marko Popovic contributed 11 points in the winning effort. Ceyhun Altay (196-G/F-86, agency: Court Side) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Can Altintig (195-G-87) netted 13 points in the loss.
Montenegro will take on China for the title next.

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MOZAMBIQUE

NBA

Rapture for Casey in getting another shot - by Eurobasket News
The excitement of Dwayne Casey's new job in Toronto has been muted by the NBA lockout rules that prohibit him from mentioning the players he will coach. Who knows if he has spoken of DeMar DeRozan, Ed Davis, or Andrea Bargnani to anybody but his wife while enjoying the Seattle summer.
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So instead of basking in the glow of being hired to run the Raptors, he waits to get started.

Casey was a finalist for two openings last offseason, losing out to Vinny Del Negro with the Clippers and to Larry Drew in Atlanta. His stock increased when he gained recognition as the defensive mastermind behind the Mavericks, who stifled the Heat during the NBA Finals.

A team known for high scoring and disheartening playoff eliminations made an improbable run to the title partly because of Caseys savvy leadership as Rick Carlisles top assistant. And the Raptors, in desperate need of leadership, tabbed Casey as their next commander.

Casey is considered one of the leagues good guys, but like former Celtics assistant Tom Thibodeau (the reigning NBA coach of the year with the Bulls) isnt a self-promoter and was passed up for jobs by more prominent candidates. Caseys low-key style should fit perfectly in Toronto, but he said he has the enthusiasm to make basketball relevant in Canada.

Its no wonder Raptors fans have become jaded. They have watched players such as Damon Stoudamire, Marcus Camby, Vince Carter, and Chris Bosh leave for greener pastures, leaving the franchise barren of stars. While DeRozan, Davis, and Bargnani make up a young, talented core, the team desperately needs direction.

The misnomer that you are in Canada and not in the States is totally misplaced, Casey said. Because its a great sports city. I cant imagine if you turn the program around how exciting it would be. Its a melting pot for anybody. But a lot of times players just come there in the dead of winter and dont really get a taste of the city. Thats one thing thats going to be our mission, is to try to change that image and go back to my recruiting days at Kentucky, and try to recruit.

Twenty-plus years ago, Casey was one of the countrys best recruiters but got caught up in the Eddie Sutton scandal and was accused of sending money to prospective players. The NCAA couldnt prove that Casey actually sent money and he was exonerated, but not without damage to his reputation. Casey resurfaced in the NBA and spent 11 years in Seattle as an assistant coach, primarily under George Karl, before taking the Timberwolves top job in 2005.

He was fired during the 2006-07 season, despite a 20-20 record, amid increasing rumors that Kevin Garnett wanted to leave. Casey missed out on some coaching opportunities over the last four years, but he won his first championship last month.

Winning solidified what we had been preaching in Dallas for years, defense wins, said Casey, who was 53-69 in Minnesota. When we first went there, I thought [former coach] Avery [Johnson] had just started to turn the corner with the defense. Its the same defensive system we used in Minnesota and Seattle. Dallas was a great training ground for me to be ready for pressure and know what expectations for ownership is. Mark [Cuban] challenges you every game and that helps you grow.

But never at one time did I say, Hey, when am I going to get my next coaching job?

The Raptors were 26th in points allowed and 29th in field goal percentage last season. So Casey has an arduous task to fix a franchise that has lacked defensive urgency.

Its just something you have to emphasize, Casey said. Its something well preach, make time for, well follow through with it, hold guys accountable. Its going to be part of our practice plan more than guys will like . . . its gotta be because any time you are last in the league in defense, and you lose 60 games, somethings gotta change and change quickly. And thats going to be our approach. Its not only a changing-the-culture situation but a teaching situation because the team is so young.

Its a challenge Casey has wanted for nearly five years, and he is excited about working with new talent, though those names cant be uttered publicly until there is labor peace.

Courtesy of www.boston.com

Eddy Curry, Shane Battier on Miami Heats radar; Finals rematch set - by Eurobasket News
Eddy Curry's (6'11''-C/F-82) predicament is clear: If he loses at least 40 more pounds during the lockout, then the Heat likely will have renewed and genuine interest because Pat Riley remains highly intrigued by the 7-foot center. The question is whether he has the discipline to achieve that mighty challenge.

Curry, 28, reportedly topped 350 pounds during his late March workout for the Heat. He lost a lot more weight - in excess of 20 pounds - between that point and late June, when he auditioned again for the Heat over several days.

But he entered the lockout still at least 40 pounds overweight, according to a league official briefed on the situation. You watch him shoot and hes got great touch, good hands, said a player source who was invited to Currys multiplayer Heat workouts in late June. Hes very skilled. But its a question of whether he gets more serious. Hes got a long way to go.

The Heat has strong interest in Samuel Dalembert (6'11''-C-81, college: Seton Hall), a better rebounder and defender than Curry, but Miami will be in the mix for Dalembert only if theres a mid-level exception in the new labor deal. Regardless, the Heat again will check on Curry after the lockout, then decide whether to offer him a minimum-salary deal.

Curry, drafted fourth overall in 2001, averaged 19.5 points and 7.0 rebounds for the Knicks in 2006-07 but played in just 10 games over the past three years because of injuries. He was out of the league last season.

Other than Nene and Tyson Chandler (who will be unaffordable to the Heat), Dalembert is the only guy on that [unrestricted] free agent center list who would be a starter for them, TNTs Steve Kerr said off air. Some might say Kwame Brown, too.

According to a league official, one of the two Heat-Mavericks games is being planned for Christmas in Dallas, likely at 2:30 p.m. The schedule will be announced shortly, though labor problems could shorten the season. With Christmas on a Sunday, most NFL games will be Dec. 24 (including Dolphins at Patriots) except Bears-Packers on Christmas night.

Regardless of whether James Jones re-signs (and theres mutual interest), we hear forward Shane Battier (6'8''-F-78, college: Duke) will be very much on the Heats radar after the lockout. The Houston Chronicle, after interviewing Battier, said dont be surprised if he signs with the Heat or Bulls.

The Heat long has admired Battier and fellow free agents Tayshaun Prince and Grant Hill, but the question is if any will take less money to sign here. Hill told The Arizona Republic it would be nice to re-sign with Phoenix. Detroit wants to keep Prince.

Of those three, Battier would be the best fit when you play Dwyane Wade or LeBron James at the point, you want a three-man who can shoot, said Kerr, who likes Jones in that role. Battier made 102 three-pointers last season (38.2 percent), compared with 45 for Hill (39.5 percent) and 34 for Prince (34.7 percent). If the Heat signs Battier, Prince or Hill, it could create playing time by having Wade or James assume more ball-handling duties when Mario Chalmers is out of the game.

Although a veteran backup point guard likely will be added, the Heat has grown comfortable with the idea of Chalmers starting. The Heat imposed some 10 percent employee pay cuts but no layoffs since the lockout started. Udonis Haslem recently needed another foot operation to remove a screw nothing unexpected but is expected to be fine for the season. ... Wade had Lasik eye surgery Friday.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Phoenix Suns' Steve Nash has interest, passport to play overseas - by Eurobasket News
Amid all the misleading, deceptive and ambiguous talk of locked-out NBA players taking their talents to south Europe, it actually is not far-fetched to think Steve Nash (6'3''-PG-74, college: Santa Clara) could play there instead of Phoenix this year.

Nash travels the world like a wave. He is a South African-born, America-residing Canadian with British parents, a Paraguayan ex-wife and a Chinese shoe deal. Only Australia and Antarctica aren't covered.

An inquiry into his interest found him dining with ex-Suns teammate Boris Diaw . . . in Paris.

'I'd love to play overseas,' Nash wrote. 'It may be difficult with three kids but I'd love to do it.'

Besides Nash's worldly nature and interest, what makes the possibility more intriguing is that Nash has a British passport. Players with passports or dual citizenship help European teams around the limit of two American players.

'He'd be ready to roll,' Nash's agent, Bill Duffy, said. 'I've talked to him about it in the past. He's a worldwide traveler and maverick. He's committed to playing for the Suns but it's not up to him. If it looks like the season's going to be shut down, everyone's going to be looking for work.'

What might be more plausible for Nash is playing in China, where he has ties. Nash left Nike this year to endorse shoe company Lu You, although he can still wear Nikes in games. Nash's agency has represented Yao Ming, who named a school he built in China after Nash.

China's season starts later, in January, allowing Nash and others to have a better feel for the lockout before leaping. Chinese teams would be more open to borrowing a player than European teams would.

European clubs are not as likely to disrupt chemistry with most NBA players who might demand more money, expect more playing time and want to be allowed out of the contract should the NBA settle.

'If you want a NBA escape, you're not going to get one there,' one agent said. 'Those are serious teams. They're not going to sign guys to play 15 minutes and make their teams worse.'

Chinese teams are known to sign players just for playoffs and would love the buzz of an NBA arrival.

'There may be a lot more flexibility in China,' Duffy said. 'They'd be so excited to have them.'

There is a worst-case Nash scenario that a lost NBA season could end his career with him turning 38 in February. That is doubtful, considering he has a year remaining on his contract, has expressed a desire to play through another contract, trains like mad to stave off injury or physical decline, just led the league in assists without a top-50 scoring teammate and is motivated to win again after missing the playoffs.

Other Suns will consider playing overseas. Center Marcin Gortat told Polish media there is a strong possibility he will play for a Russian team. Another prominent Suns player is weighing the idea.

Nobody knows the perils of leaving the NBA for Europe like the Suns' Josh Childress, who bolted from Atlanta to Greece for a three-year, $20 million deal when Greece's economy was far better. He can envision Nash embracing the experience but thinks most people do not consider how players could have trouble getting paid (his contract stipulated any arbitration would be heard in Switzerland), often take long bus rides or commercial flights and play slow systems dominated by coaches.

'Unless a guy is going over to Europe to enjoy the opportunity, there are not many jobs for guys going over strictly for money and a lot of teams aren't going to want a top player,' Childress said. 'To view players going to Europe as the next big thing, I wouldn't view it as that. I'd hate to see guys go over there uninformed.

'The majority of interest will come from China. That's a huge market for the NBA. The contracts will be more lucrative there.'

Courtesy of www.azcentral.com

Jason Kidd wants to play three more years - by Eurobasket News
Jason Kidd (6'4''-PG-73, college: California) has some time to enjoy himself after a long playoff run that resulted in the Dallas Mavericks' first NBA title. What better way than joining the likes of Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo and former Stars Mike Modano and Brett Hull?

When asked of his future plans Saturday during an on-course interview with Jimmy Roberts during the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship at Lake Tahoe, Kidd had this to say:

Hopefully I got three years left. I have a year on my deal and then I would like to get past 40 and then watch the young guys play.

The 17-year NBA veteran was also asked if he thought hed never win a championship.

'There was a point that I didn't think it was going to happen, especially after Game 4 in Portland when we gave up the 20-point loss, but we stuck in there and we finally found a way to get it done.'

Courtesy of www.ESPNDallas.com

NBA lays off 114 employees - by Eurobasket News
The NBA laid off 114 people the past two days, planned cost-cutting moves that a league spokesman said Thursday are 'not a direct result of the lockout.'

The laid-off employees represent about 11 percent of the league office workforce in New York, New Jersey and internationally.

Spokesman Mike Bass told The Associated Press the layoffs are 'not a direct result of the lockout but rather a response to the same underlying issue; that is, the league's expenses far outpace our revenues.'

'The roughly 11 percent reduction in headcount from the league office is part of larger cost-cutting measures to reduce our costs by $50 million across all areas of our business,' Bass said.

The league said it lost $300 million this season after losing hundreds of millions in each previous year of the collective bargaining agreement that expired at the end of the day June 30.

Owners locked out the players after the sides remained far apart in their final proposals. Commissioner David Stern said at the time it was too early to think about how it could affect staff, but acknowledged that the league would 'have to go back and look at everything now with our operations.'

But the reductions already had begun. The NBA and teams had trimmed staff by about 275 since October 2008, either through layoffs or by leaving positions vacant when employees departed.

The league also has cut administrative costs, travel and new technology. It consolidated offices in Europe and Asia, closing offices in Paris and Tokyo, and is shutting down the studio in Secaucus, N.J., where it annually holds the draft lottery. The NBA store on Fifth Avenue in New York has been closed, though the league has said it will reopen in another location.

Already at least two teams, Detroit and Charlotte, have cut staff since the work stoppage was announced two weeks ago. Stern said that day that a lockout 'has a very large impact on a lot of people, many of whom or most of whom are not associated with either side.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Tyreke Evans' foot is '100 percent' healed - by Eurobasket News
Tyreke Evans (6'6''-PG-89, college: Memphis) said recently that he is '100 percent' healthy after having a laser procedure to heal plantar fasciitis in his left foot last February.

'My foot is fine,' said Evans. 'When it's time, I'll go out there and just play like I played my first year in the league. [Last season] I was [always] thinking about it.' He also expressed a willingness to play either PG or SG for the Kings, who have a glut of SGs in Evans, Jimmer Fredette, Marcus Thornton and John Salmons.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Lawsuit: Shaq ordered man to kill for him - by Eurobasket News
Shaquille O'Neal (7'2''-C-72, college: LSU) 'requested and directed' his former friend to kill several people -- including a gang member, a record producer, and a woman he impregnated ... those are the shocking allegations in a new lawsuit obtained by TMZ.

CLICK TO READ THE LAWSUIT

Shaq's former pal Robert Ross -- an ex-gang member -- is suing O'Neal for allegedly masterminding a plot to have him kidnapped by other gang members back in 2008.

In the documents, filed today in L.A. County Superior Court, Ross claims O'Neal organized and funded a series of murders and brutal attacks on people who did him wrong.

In the suit, Ross alleges, 'For many years O'Neal requested and directed [Ross] to perform many personal favors and directed him to perform various tasks including, but not limited to: ordering [Ross] to kill a member of the Downtown Gangster Crips who had disrespected O'Neal in front of his wife Shaunie.'

O'Neal is also accused of issuing 'an order to kill a woman whom O'Neal had impregnated and paid for her abortion' and 'an order to kill a renown record producer.'

Ross also alleges that O'Neal issued 'an order to break an NBA player's shooting arm.'

Ross -- who never says whether the alleged hits were carried out -- is suing for unspecified damages.

Shaq's lawyer, Michael J. Kump, tells TMZ ... 'The outlandish claims by Robert Ross in his civil complaint are pure fiction. Shaquille O'Neal befriended Mr. Ross in an attempt to help turn his life around. Sadly, Mr. Ross abused that friendship again and again.

Kump adds, 'Shaquille's commitment to law enforcement is well-known and documented. He will not dignify these defamanatory allegations with a response.'

Courtesy of www.tmz.com

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NCAA2

UAA Seawolves in Australia - by Sanjey Noriega
From:goseawolves.com

Alaska Anchorages Liam Gibcus is among 20 players who will compete for roster spots on the Australian squad for this years World University Games, Basketball Australia announced recently.

Gibcus, a 6-10, 245-pound center, shot a team-best 64.5 percent from the floor as a key reserve for last years UAA team that went 24-10 and reached the second round of the NCAA Div. II Tournament.

The Lysterfield, Victoria, native is one of 19 players from U.S. schools (9 NCAA Div. I, 9 NCAA Div. II, 1 JC) trying to make the Aussie roster. The selection camp will be held July 3-6, after which the roster will be cut to 12. The 26th annual Summer World University Games are scheduled for Aug. 11-23 in Shenzhen, China.

In other UAA/Aussie basketball news, former Seawolf All-American Luke Cooper (2004-08) has been called up to the Golden Star Australian Boomers national squad to compete for a roster spot this summer.

Cooper, who played his NBL (Australias top league) rookie season with the Sydney Kings last year, will train with the Boomers at a five-day camp in Perth as the process of building towards the Olympic qualifying gets under way.

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NEW ZEALAND

Wellington Saints defend NBL title - by Eurobasket News
Wellington Saints - Bay Hawks 106:97

The Wellington Saints have repeated as NBL champions. They overcame the Bay Hawks at the TSB Bank Arena tonight to clinch fifth NBL title in franchise history. Lindsay Tait (194-G-82, agency: Impact Basketball) unloaded 28 points, issued 6 assists and grabbed 5 boards to lead the winners.
The Saints jumped to a 20:12 lead midway through the opening quarter. But Ben Hill and Aidan Daly drained three-pointers late in the first period as the Bay Hawks levelled things up at 24. Josh Pace (198-G-83, college: Syracuse) and Galen Young (201-F/G-75, college: Charlotte) put the Bay Hawks in charge early in the second frame. The Saints responded with 12:0 run to regain the lead. Wellington stepped on the gas and rallied to a 53:41 lead at halftime. Wellington did not allow their opponents closer than 8 points in the third term. Moreover the Saints boosted the gap to 15 points with one quarter remaining 79:64. The gap grew at 16-point mark midway through the final period and though the Bay Hawks cut it to 8 points in the dying seconds the Saints raced to the triumph at the end. Corey Webster (185-G-88, college: Lambuth) nailed 22 points, while Leon Henry (200-G/F-85, college: S.Idaho JC) added 19 points for the winners. Galen Young answered with 20 points and 7 rebounds for the Bay Hawks. Josh Pace contributed 17 points in defeat.

Wellington Saints: Lindsay Tait 28, Corey Webster 22, Leon Henry 19
Bay Hawks: Galen Young 20, Josh Pace 17

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NORWAY

U20: Great Britain post the second straight win in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain U20-Norway U20 78:64

Great Britain post the second straight win in Sarajevo at the European Championship. After defeating Luxembourg U20 last night, they overcame Norway U20 78:64.
It was a tough start for both teams that stayed close to each other. The team from Great Britain grabbed 19-18 after the first 10 minutes and then both teams nailed 11 points each in the second frame. The final push the winners made in the third period winning it 27-18. Bouna Ndiaye (195-G-92) and Karamo Jawara (200-F-91) reduced to 57:52 early in the fourth, while Alasdair Fraser (201-F/C-92) scored for 59:52. Alasdair Fraser closed an 8-0 run for the team from Great Britain and Bohn broke the silence for his side. Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) scored for 71:54 with 5 minutes to go when it finally became known about the winner. Bouna Ndiaye and Alasdair Fraser later exchanged the shots, while Karamo Jawara reduced to 73:58. Alex Marcotullio nailed three for 76:61 and Karamo Jawara scored again for 76:64. Van Oostrum made the final score in the game as his side is with 2-2 record.
Alasdair Fraser paced all the winners with 23 points and Ryan Richards (212-C/F-91, agency: Interperformances) followed him with 20. Karamo Jawara ended up with 25 points in the losing case and Berg netted 16.

Great Britain U20: Alasdair Fraser 23, Ryan Richards 20, Alex Marcotullio 14+11 rebs
Norway U20: Karamo Jawara 25, Berg 16, Bouna Ndiaye 11

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PARAGUAY

PHILIPPINES

Rose completes NBA stellar cast in Phl - by Eurobasket News
Reigning MVP and former Rookie of the Year Derrick Rose (193-G-88, college: Memphis) of the Chicago Bulls is the eighth and last member of the stellar NBA cast playing Smart Gilas Pilipinas and a PBA selection in a dream two-game series on July 23 and 24 at the Araneta Coliseum.

MVP Sports Foundation president Al Panlilio, whose group is organizing the blockbuster event dubbed the Ultimate All-Star Weekend, said Rose will complete the eight-player roster headed by five-time champions Kobe Bryant and former ROY awardee Chris Paul of the New Orleans Hornets.

He (Rose) okay, theres just one detail were trying fix out, said Panlilio, who broke the news Friday night of the much-awaited two-day basketball extravaganza finally happening, yesterday.

Roses name was being floated from the start when plans of the MVPSF leaked to the media right during the time when the NBA teams locked out their players for failing to come up with a new collective bargaining agreement.

It was only yesterday that Roses much sought apperance was officially confirmed.

The name of the former Memphis Tigers was also repeatedly being mentioned in commercials of the Ultimate All-Star Weekend being shown on TV5 Sunday night or on the eve of the official announcement.

Just on his third NBA season, Rose has already won invidivudal and team accolades having snared the ROY and NBA trophies while leading the Bulls to the Eastern Conference Finals before succumbing to eventual losing finalists the Miami Heat.

The star-studded NBA cast will thus comprise of Rose, Bryant, who will coach the squad, Paul, Fisher, 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.

Reigning ROY and slam dunk champion Blake Griffin of the Los Angeles Clippers was supposed to play and join the side slam dunk event but begged off in the last minute to attend his brothers wedding in the United States.

Two-time scoring champion and former ROY Kevin Durant of the Oklahoma Thunder was earlier reported to be joining the team but negotiations of bringing him to the country to play bogged down.

The event, which came into fruition thanks to 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.

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

PBA Roundup: July 9 July 16, 2011 - by Enzo Flojo
PETRON BLAZE BOOSTERS over TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS, 101-96
Without Jeremy Wise, Petron Blaze still found ways to win and against a virtually intact, powerhouse team at that. With Arwind Santos (193-F-81), Sunday Salvacion and Alex Cabagnot leading the way, the Boosters turned back the Talk N Text Tropang Texters last Saturday.

Santos delivered a fourth straight double-double, Salvacion turned in his best game yet outside of a Ginebra uniform and Cabagnot laced a 13-assist performance with crucial plays down the stretch. All those helped pave the way for Petrons third straight victory and a 5-2 win-loss overall that pushed it at first place and virtually the first slot in the six-team semifinals.

Salvacion capped a 23-point performance with a triple to tie the count at 88 in the fourth and Santos spiked a 25-point, 14-rebound night with two charities that gave Petron the lead for good at 90-88, still 2:35 to go.

Petron Blaze 101 - Santos 25, Salvacion 23, Cabagnot 14, Duncil 12, Pennisi 8, Guevarra 6, Al-Hussaini 6, Ildefonso 4, Miranda 2, Hubalde 1.
Talk N Text 96 - Fonacier 21, De Ocampo 19, Reyes 13, Baker 12, Castro 12, Peek 8, Carey 6, Williams 5, Alvarez 0, Lao 0, Alapag 0.
QS: 32-26, 53-40, 77-73, 101-96

RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO PAINTERS over MERALCO BOLTS, 116-113
The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters had a roller-coaster ride that saw them blow away a 20-point third-quarter bulge, rally from a six-point deficit in the last 15 seconds of regulation play and outlast the Meralco Bolts in overtime.

The Elasto Painters came out of the classic match triumphant, and tied the erstwhile leaders Talk n Text Tropang Texters at second place. Larry Rodriguez (193-F-83) banged away a buzzer-beating triple to force the OT then Ronjay Buenafe sizzled coming off the bench in the extra five minutes as the Elasto Painters salvaged the game to draw
level with the Texters at 4-2, just half-game behind the pacesetting Petron Blaze Boosters (5-2).

The Elasto Painters overcame a 95-101 deficit with 15 ticks left in regulation on back-to-back treys by Gabe Norwood and Rodriguez.

Arizona Reid put in double-double numbers with 22 points and 17 rebounds while Buenafe was one of four Rain or Shine locals who finished with a double-digit output. They negated Sol Mercados personal conference best of 37 points and Tim Picketts triple-double of 28 points, 17 rebounds and 11 assists.

Rain or Shine 116 - Reid 22, Chan 14, Arana 14, Rodriguez 13, Buenafe 11, Vanlandingham 8, Norwood 8, Belga 8, Kramer 6, Ibanes 6, Jazul 3, Tang 3.
Meralco 113 - Mercado 37, Pickett 28, Isip 12, Espinas 10, Hugnatan 10, Omolon 5, Gamalinda 4, Taulava 4, Aljamal 3, Menor 0, Ritualo 0.
QS: 29-18, 56-38, 78-72, 103-103, 116-113

BGY. GINEBRA KINGS over B-MEG DERBY ACE LLAMADOS, 89-85
Perhaps Barangay Ginebra is better off without an import. Still orphaned by Curtis Stinson, the rest of the Kings locals stepped up big time and caught a big fish in the B-Meg Llamados to move up for a tie for second place.

Ronald Tubid (186-G-81) topscored for 20 points, Mark Caguioa 19 and Eric Menk, Willy Wilson and Billy Mamaril combined for 37 points as they rallied back the Kings from as much as a 12-point deficit in the first half and then held the fort in the stretch when the Llamados made one final push to turn the tightly-fought game around.

Wilson and Caguioa accounted for all the Kings points in a short, but telling 8-4 run that broke the games final deadlock at 79, and put the leagues crowd darlings in front to stay, 87-83, entering the final two minutes of play.

B-Megs James Yap and Peter June Simon each had 14 points. Simon scored 9 in the fourth period, and his final basket for the night moved the Llamados to within 85-87 in the final 1:17 mark.

Ginebra 89 -- Tubid 20, Caguioa 19, Menk 14, Wilson W. 12, Mamaril 11, Helterbrand 7, Cortez 4, De Ocampo 2, Labagala 0, Wilson J. 0.
B-Meg 85 -- Hinson 21, Yap J. 14, Simon 14, Pingris 11, Devance 8, Reavis 6, Yap R. 6, Fernandez 3, Gaco 2, Escobal 0, Allado 0.
QS: 21-30, 41-45, 67-66, 89-85

ALASKA ACES over RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO PAINTERS, 88-83
Rain or Shines momentum was peaking in the third quarter when L.A. LA Tenorio (178-G-84) showed up late in the period and took charge from there. The Alaska guard scored 18 of his team-high 22 points in the second half to power the Aces to a victory against the Elasto Painters.

LA Tenorio went 3-of-3 from 3-point range in the second half and finished on a 6-of-13 shooting. His successive 3-pointers late in the third spoiled a strong charge by Rain or Shine, which pulled to within 59-63, and helped Alaska build a comfortable 71-59 halftime advantage.

Their second straight win in a span of six days pulled the Aces into a tie with the Elasto Painters with their identical 4-3 records. Sonny Thoss grabbed 9 rebounds and scored 14 points, 12 of those coming in the first half as Alaska had a strong start. Import Jason Forte added 11 points and 18 rebounds while Wesley Gonzales
and Cyrus Baguio combined for 16 points. It was a tough loss for the Elasto Painters, who could have sealed their spot in the semifinals with a win.

Alaska 88 - LA Tenorio 22, Thoss 14, Forte 11, Gonzales 8, Baguio 8, Dela Cruz 7, Custodio 6, Eman 5, Cablay 4, Reyes 3.
Rain or Shine 83 - Reid 26, Buenafe 17, Norwood 10,Belga 10, Arana 7, Chan 5, Cruz 4, Tang 2, Rodriguez 2, Vanlandingham 0, Jazul 0, Kramer 0.
QS: 26-15, 45-35, 71-59, 88-83

TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS over MERALCO BOLTS, 93-91
In a game that turned to a virtual all-Filipino duel, Jason Castro (173-G-86) rose up at the finish, completing a Talk n Text come-from-behind win over Meralco that sealed the Tropang Texters entry into the PBA Governors Cup semifinals.

Castro scored on a reversed lay-up off Sol Mercado to break a 91-all standoff then pumped in a 15-footer against the same defender to win it for the grandslam-seeking Texters. Talk n Text assured itself of a seat in the next round with a 5-2 win-loss record, the same with Petron Blaze.

Meralco, slowing down after its import Tim Pickett got injured midway through the second quarter, reeled with a fourth loss in its last five games, dropping to sixth place in a tie with B-Meg at 3-4. Pickett went down with a suspected hamstring injury with over five minutes left in the second quarter. He started the game with back-to-back triples and had made 11 points when he suffered the injury.

The Tropang Texters, after a long chase, had their first taste of the lead at 86-85 on two free throws by Larry Fonacier with 3:51 left to play. Another pair of charities from Fonacier later followed by Castros driving lay-up off Mercado tied the count at 91-all with 46 seconds left. A missed jumper by Mark Isip in the ensuing play opened the opportunity for the Tropang Texters to steal the game.

Talk N' Text 93 -- Fonacier 16, De Ocampo 16, Castro 13, Peek 13, Reyes 12, Baker 8, Carey 8, Williams 7, Aban 0, Alvarez 0
Meralco 91 -- Espinas 23, Mercado 18, Isip 14, Pickett 11, Omolon 10, Taulava 8, Menor 3, Gamalinda 2, Hugnatan 0, Weinstein 0, Aljamal 0, Ritualo 0
QS: 20-29; 44-56; 69-77; 93-91

B-MEG DERBY ACE LLAMADOS over AIR 21 EXPRESS, 111-89
As he had promised the team, Darnell Hinson capped his possible farewell game with a splendid performance against Air 21 that propelled B-Meg to a 111-89 victory Friday night that completed the semifinal cast of the PBA Governors Cup.

Hinson, who cut short his PBA stint in a rush to attend the child custody hearing for his daughter, tallied a conference-high 31 points while effectively anchoring the teams offense as the Llamados improved to 4-4 record.

Air21 led most of the first quarter before B-Meg closed the period with a 6-3 run to seize control. The Llamados shot 59% in the second and stretched their lead to 53-41 on three free throws by Hinson late in the period. B-Meg settled for a 57-45 lead at halftime.

Joe Devance (201-C-82, college: UTEP) scored 23 points while James Yap, PJ Simon and Marc Pingris combined for 38 points and Rafi Reavis grabbed 15 rebounds for B-Meg which took away whatever hopes Powerade (2-4) and Meralco (3-4) had entertained to make the next round because of superior PBA quotients in any possible ties at 4-4.

B Meg 111 - Hinson 31, De Vance 23, J. Yap 15, Simon 12, Pingris 11, Reavis 8, R. Yap 8, Fernandez 3, Gaco 0, Escobal 0, Adducul 0.
Air21 89 - Bangura 20 ,Canaleta 18 ,Najorda 12, Sharma 12, Arboleda 7, Avenido 6, Salvador 5, Hontiveros 5, Espiritu 3, Artadi 1, Cabahug 0, Urbiztondo 0, Juntilla 0.
QS: 26-25, 57-45, 89-72, 111-89.

POWERADE TIGERS over PETRON BLAZE BOOSTERS 105-81
Petron Blaze learned the hard way that its hard playing a team with nothing to lose as an already-ran Powerade pulled off a stunner of a victory to go out with a bang in the PBA Governors Cup.

Mark Macapagal (188-G-79) led his team with 22 points including five triples while Gary David, Chris Porter and Ricky Calimag chipped in 21, 18 and 13 points, respectively, as the Tigers nailed their third win in seven outings although they're already out of it because the six-team semis cast is complete.

Powerade unleashed two separate runs in the third canto, one ignited by Porter and David and the other by Ricky Calimag and Celino Cruz that gave it a 78-53 upper hand late in the quarter. The Tigers managed to end the period still comfortably ahead, 84-80, although there were some anxious moments between Petron's Rabeh Al Hussiani and Powerade's Rob Reyes before cooler heads prevailed.

Powerade 105 - Macapagal 22, David 21, Porter 18, Calimag 13, Reyes R. 9, Lanete 6, Rizada 4, Cruz 4, Laure 4, Antonio 4, Reyes J. 0.
Petron 81 - Grundy 30, Ildefonso 10, Cabagnot 8, Pennisi 7, Yeo 6, Santos 6, Duncil 5, Miranda 4, Salvacion 3, Al-Hussaini 2, Baclao 0.
QS: 26-20, 53-41, 84-60, 105-81

ALASKA ACES over BGY. GINEBRA KINGS, 83-79
Jason Forte had a giant play not reflected in his 20-20 performance that bailed Alaska Milk out of trouble versus Barangay Ginebra. Forte made a decisive defensive stop, enabling the Aces to withstand the Kings for a strong 5-3 finish in the PBA Governors Cup elimination round.

The hard-nosed Alaska import stopped Donald Sloans make-or-break attack, grabbed the loose ball, then knocked in the insurance foul shots as the Aces survived the Kings fiery rally from 15 points down at the half.

The Kings had a chance to send the game into overtime when coach Tim Cone made a key adjustment, putting Forte on Sloan in Ginebras critical offensive in the last 19 seconds of play. Forte churned out 24 points and 20 rebounds.

Winning their last three games, the Aces caught up with the Petron Blaze Boosters at 5-3 a sterling record theyre carrying over into the semifinals.

Alaska 83 - Forte 24, LA Tenorio 15, Reyes 9, Thoss 8, Dela Cruz 8, Gonzales 7, Baguio 5, Eman 4, Custodio 3, Cablay 0.
Ginebra 79 - Sloan 21, Tubid 14, Caguioa 12, Helterbrand 8, Wilson W. 6, Cortez 6, Wilson J. 5, Intal 3, Menk 3, Mamaril 1, De Ocampo 0.
QS: 28-21, 50-35, 66-61, 83-79

*Stories compiled and adapted from PBA.ph

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference

PBA Governor's Cup Standings

1. Talk N Text		5-2
2. Alaska		5-3
3. Petron Blaze		5-3
4. Ginebra		4-3
5. Rain or Shine		4-3
6. Derby Ace L.		4-4
7. Meralco B.		3-4
8. Powerade T.		3-4
9. Air21		0-7

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POLAND

U20: The Swiis side succumb to Poland - by Eurobasket News
Poland U20-Switzerland U20 86:75

Poland finally won the game after the two losses in a row in Division B of the European Championship. Poland improved to 2-2 after 86:75 win over Switzerland in Sarajevo.
Both teams were tied at 8:8, while Jonathan Dubas (201-F/C-91) brought 12:9 for the Swiss side. Szumelda-Krzycki closed the first period at 28:22 and Zyskowski gave Poland plus 10 in the start of the second frame. Poland won also the second period 23-17 as Parzenski sent the squads to the lockers at 51:39. Poland did not even think of slowing down and after 23-13 reached 74:52 after thirty minutes. Switzerland however was too far to give up and did their best to recover. Jaunin nailed three to reduce to 77:66, while Gardner Louissaint (196-F-91) scored four in a row for 83:72. Jonathan Dubas was the last to score in the game for 86:75 that became the final score.
Michal Sokolowski (196-G-92) stepped up with 19 points for 2-2 record. Sebastian Szymanski (186-G-91, agency: Promotex) scored 18 and Kacper Mlynarski (200-F-92) netted 10. Jonathan Dubas replied with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Gardner Louissaint nailed 12.

Poland U20: Michal Sokolowski 19, Sebastian Szymanski 18, Kacper Mlynarski 10
Switzerland U20: Jonathan Dubas 20, Gardner Louissaint 12, Dario Koludrovic (194-F-92) 10

Energa Czarni sign deal with David Weaver - by Eurobasket News
David Weaver (209-C-87, college: Wake Forest) will play in Poland in the next season. The has agreed on terms of contract with Energa Czarni. The deal is meant for one season. David Weaver spent the last season in Lithuania. The 23-year-old centre played for Siauliai. He tallied 11.5 points and 5.5 boards per game in LKL. In Baltic League David Weaver posted 9.2 points and 4.0 rebounds per appearance. In EuroCup his stats read 11.5 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists. The centre participated at LKL All-Star Game. Eurobasket.com named David Weaver into Lithuanian LKL All-Newcomers Team. It was the first pro season for the centre. David Weaver graduated from the Wake Forest University in 2010.

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PORTUGAL

PUERTO RICO

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game

Angel Daniel VASSALLO
  Guaynabo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 22.2

1. Vassallo, Guaynabo	22.2
2. Ramos, Quebradillas	21.6
3. Johnson, Humacao	21.2
4. Dalmau, Bayamon	20.9
5. Villegas, Coamo	19.1
6. Ayuso, Arecibo	18.8
7. Harris, San German	18.3
8. Randolph, Isabela	18.0
9. Carmona, Mayaguez	17.0
10. Clinch, Isabela	16.8

Rebounds Per Game

Mike HARRIS
  San German
  (198-F-83)
  Avg: 12.3

1. Harris, San German	12.3
2. Randolph, Isabela	12.3
3. Narvaez, Coamo	11.6
4. Pruitt, Guaynabo	11.6
5. Ramos, Quebradillas	10.4
6. Lloreda, San G.	10.0
7. Clemente, Mayaguez	9.1
8. Sweetney, Santurce	9.1
9. Johnson, Humacao	8.5
10. Rickert, Bayamon	8.4

Assists Per Game

Daniel BROWN
  Quebradillas
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Brown, Quebradillas	5.9
2. Rivera, San German	5.5
3. Dalmau, Bayamon	5.4
4. Clinch, Isabela	4.5
5. Clemente, Humacao	4.4
6. Guzman, Guaynabo	4.2
7. Rivera, Mayaguez	4.2
8. Bruton, Quebradill.	4.1
9. Apodaca, Quebradil.	3.8
10. Copeland, San G.	3.8

Steals Per Game

Darnell HINSON
  Isabela
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Hinson, Isabela	1.8
2. Rivera, Mayaguez	1.6
3. Clinch, Isabela	1.5
4. Mojica, Bayamon	1.4
5. Hodge, Santurce	1.4
6. Chaney, Santurce	1.3
7. Santiago, Santurce	1.3
8. Berdiel, Humacao	1.2
9. Dalmau, Bayamon	1.2
10. Carmona, Mayaguez	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Kleon PENN
  Humacao
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Penn, Humacao	2.6
2. Santiago, Arecibo	2.0
3. Santiago, Arecibo	1.9
4. Sanchez, Santurce	1.9
5. Aubry, Arecibo	1.6
6. Aubry, Arecibo	1.6
7. Lee, Bayamon	1.6
8. Harris, San German	1.4
9. Randolph, Isabela	1.4
10. Ramos, Quebradill.	1.2

BSN Semifinals: Bayamon is alive, hands Quebradillas 105-89 home loss in Game Three - by Eurobasket News
BSN Semifinals, Game 3: Quebradillas - Bayamon 89-105 (2-1)

Bayamon registered their first win in the Semifinals series against Quebradillas. It was 89-105 victory in a game which was played last night at the Quebradillas home court. Bayamon came to 1-2 in the series and they will be the hosts in Game Four today.
The game was mostly controlled by Vaqueros. Quebradillas was better in second period 25-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 22-of-24 charity shots (91.7 percent) during the game. Quebradillas were plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for the former international guard Christian Dalmau (194-G-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Daytona Beach CC) who led his team to a victory scoring 35 points (!!!) and 6 assists (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!). American power forward Lee Benson (208-F/C-73, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Brown Mackie) helped adding 16 points and 15 rebounds. The best for the losing side was point guard Darius Washington (188-G-85, college: Memphis) with 22 points and international guard David Huertas (196-G-87, college: Mississippi) scored 23 points. Four Vaqueros and five Quebradillas players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.

Quebradillas: D.Huertas 23+1ast, W.Darius 22+3reb+1ast, P.Tucker 12+6reb+3ast, P.John Ramos 11+11reb, J.Jones 10+6reb+1ast, R.Apodaca 7+3reb+1ast
Bayamon: C.Dalmau 35+3reb+6ast, L.Benson 16+15reb+1ast, R.Jose Hatton 15+2reb+4ast, J.Mojica 12+6reb+1ast, C.Antrone Lee 10+1reb, O.Bambale 7+4reb+3ast

Bayamon brings in Osby Bambale - by Eurobasket News
Bambale Osby (203-F-86, college: Maryland) is a new member of Bayamon. The American forward signed a deal for rest of the BSN season. He arrives to Bayamon from the Estonian team TTU/Kalev Tallin. He appeared 38 times for them in Estonian league averaging 16.4 points, 10 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.2 blocks. Bambale ended as the fifth best scorer of the competition, third rebounder and fourth shot blocker. Eurobasket awarded him with All-Estonian League Player of the Year -11. In Baltic league, Bambale collected 19 ppg, 11.7 rpg, 1.4 apg and 1.1 bpg. He was the fourth best scorer of this league and top rebounder. Bambale was named Eurobasket.com All-Baltic League Forward of the Year -11. Before Kalev, Bambale Osby played for Pitesti, Gmunden and Ironi Ramat Gan. He also has experience from Univ Mobitelco Cluj Napoca and Team Stockholm of the Eurobasket Summer League in New York. Bambale is a product of the Maryland University.

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QATAR

World Military Championship: Uzbekistan no match for Qatar - by Eurobasket News
Qatar - Uzbekistan 85:60

Qatar coasted past Uzbekistan on the first day of action at World Military Championship in Brazil. Qatar improved at 1-0 record in preliminary Group B. Ali Turki (201-F-82) delivered 20 points to lead the winners.
Qatar stormed past Uzbekistan in the first half. They held Uzbekistan to 9 points in the starting quarter to take a 27:9 lead. Qatar opened the second quarter with a 15:2 rally to enlarge the gap. Qatar arrived at halftime leading by 37 points 52:15. Uzbekistan tried to change the complexion of the game after the big break. They tipped off the second half with an 11:2 surge. Uzbekistan cut the deficit at 29-point mark with one quarter remaining. They unloaded 25 points in the fourth frame but it was too little too late to hope for any positive outcome. Fadi Abilmoni nailed 18 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in the victory. Vyacheslav Denisov (190-G-83) and Kirill Gusev (185-G-90) posted 12 points each for Uzbekistan. Samender Juginisov (202-F-87) had 8 points in the loss.

Qatar: Ali Turki 20, Fadi Abilmoni 18, Ziyad Guled 15
Uzbekistan: Vyacheslav Denisov 12, Kirill Gusev 12

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ROMANIA

U20: FYR Macedonia topple Romania in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
FYR Macedonia U20 - Romania U20 64:49

FYR Macedonia opened win count at U20 European Championship in Division B. They held off Romania to improve at 1-3 record in Group A. Romania meanwhile fell at 2-2 record after the loss. Nikola Gajdadjiev (193-G-92) stepped up with 17 points to lead the winners.
The teams traded baskets early in the encounter but FYR Macedonia used an 8:2 run late in the starting quarter to take a 19:12 lead. Romania got within a single points midway through the second term but Nikola Gajdadjiev triggered another 8:0 spurt as FYR Macedonia grabbed a 36:27 lead. They finished the first half up by 10 points 38:28. Nikola Gajdadjiev and Lazar Petrov (209-C-91) boosted the lead to 16 points midway through the third term. FYR Macedonia posted a 52:40 lead with one quarter remaining. FYR Macedonia kept their opponents at bay throughout the final frame and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Lazar Petrov finished with 15 points, while Dzaner Osman (194-F/G-91) added 13 points and 9 rebounds in the victory. Vlad Corpodean (197-F-91) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds for Romania. Bogdan Tibirna (210-C-91) provided 14 points in the loss. Romania got outrebounded 34:48 and shot woeful 8% from beyond the arc (2/26).

FYR Macedonia U20: Nikola Gajdadjiev 17, Lazar Petrov 15, Dzaner Osman 13
Romania U20: Vlad Corpodean 16, Bogdan Tibirna 14

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RUSSIA

Nizhny Novgorod land Andrey Mateyunas - by Eurobasket News
Nizhny Novgorod have agreed on terms of contract with Andrey Mateyunas (180-G-88). The deal is meant for two seasons. Andrey Mateyunas spent the last season with Triumph Lyubertsy. He averaged 5.5 points, 2.0 assists and 1.2 boards per PBL game. The 23-year-old guard played for Unics-2, Avtodor and Sojuz Zaretchny before joining Triumph in 2009. Andrey Mateyunas is the member of Russian University National Team.

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SEBL

Results from first week of SEBL Action - by SEBL Hoops
July 7th SEBL North Division Results

Crusaders 69 Cartersville-Baseline Warriors 63
The Crusaders got out to a strong start early, leading by as much as 19-7 before taking a 35-27 lead into the intermission. A roster depleted Warriors squad fought back to take the lead late, but miscued in the waning seconds, as a turnover set up a huge three pointer by Brolin Floyd, to put the Crusaders back in front 65-63. Baseline was unable to answer on two consecutive possessions in the end were forced to foul. The Crusaders iced the game at the freethrow line, to open the 2011 SEBL season with a big win. Jermaine Spivey led the Warriors (0-1) with 24 points, while DeAntre Jefferson had 11 and Jonathan Adams 10. For the Crusaders (1-0), Floyd finished with a game high 21, while Kenny Spotwood had 16 and Joseph Quinn 11.

Bartow Buckets 72 BC Skyline 69
The Bartow Buckets, formerly named the BC Celtics in the SEBL, got off to a great start to the 2011 season. Led by Emmanuel Holloways steady scoring, the Buckets had built a seemingly comfortable 40-30 lead over Skyline. But, they had to work hard to hold on in the end, as Skyline scraped back behind the offense of Tareek Roach, who nailed several long threes. The Buckets got two key buckets in the final minutes from Alex Cornett to help them squeek out a win. Roach led all scorers with 23 for Skyline (0-1), while David Dabel had 14 and Ishmael John 11. For the Buckets (1-0), Holloway paced the way with 21, as John David Nickerson collected 19 and Cornett 13.

Marietta Outlaw 77 Summer Hill Blue Devils 64
Marietta enjoyed two runs to help put the young Summer Hill team away. After falling down by eight early, the Outlaws first run came late in the first half behind the active inside play of Antonio Shaw, which pushed Marietta to a 10 point half-time cushion. The Blue Devils clawed back into the game, and behind the scoring punch of Sean Tate and Jerrod Jenkins, clawed back to within two with 11 minutes remaining. But, Marietta again turned on the their veteran ways and went on another big run, stretching their lead to as many as 19 with just over seven minutes remaining. Summer Hill managed to again trim the lead down to eight at one point late, but Marietta thwarted any comeback plans with perimeter shots from Lance Tippett and Ken Moore. For Summer Hill (0-1), Jenkins and Tate both finished with 13 for Summer Hill and Coleco Kidd had 11. For Marietta (1-0), Shaw chalked up 21, as Tippett and Moore tallied 18 and 13, respectively.

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SERBIA

U16 Serbia hands 86-77 loss to U16 Israel - by Eurobasket News
U16 Serbia met U16 Israel in a friendly game on Friday. Actually, it was the first round of the international tournament in Greece. Serbia handed 86-77 loss to Israel for 1-0 record at this event. Marko Guduric was the leading scorer in victory with 17 points. Djoko Salic (208-C-95) followed him with 14 and Marko Tejic (204-F-95) added one point less. Vasilije Pusica stopped to 10 pts in this meeting. Serbia took control on Israel from the very beginning. The made 24-10 lead in the first ten minutes and it turned to be the crucial period in this game. Israel improved after that making 18-21 in Q2. However, Serbia still had comfortable lead at the halftime. Third period ended with 23-23 tie and Serbia was very close to victory. In the last ten minutes Serbia managed to keep a safe distance and to take 86-77 win. They will meet Bulgaria in Day Two.

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

SEYCHELLES

International friendly tournament - by Carlos Pereira
The two local mens selections taking part in the ongoing international friendly tournament at the refurbished Palais des Sports, started the competition on the wrong foot with defeats in their first matches on Thursday.

The Seychelles A team lost 53-67 to the Mozambican selection, while the Italian side defeated the local B selection 79-70.
The tournament, which serves as preparation for our local selections who will compete in the forthcoming Indian Ocean Island Games (IOIG), features four mens teams Seychelles A, Seychelles B, a Mozambican selection and an Italian side and three womens selections Seychelles A, Seychelles B and a team from Mozambique.
The Seychelles A teams are made up of players who will represent the country at the IOIG, while the B selections feature players who are not part of the national team.

In the first match, the local B selection held their opponents and trailed by a single point 35-36 at halftime.
It was during the last two quarters that the foreign side outscored the boys of coach Nigel Ah-kong 25-18 and 20-17 for a 79-70 final score.
Ugbaje Ajodoh was the Seychelles B teams top-scorer with 17 points, while with 18 points, G. Zampolli led the scoring for the Italian side.

For their part, the Seychelles A selection lost the first three quarters 8-12, 12-15 and 11-28 against their Mozambican opponents. It was only during the last quarter that captain Cyril Agrippine and company managed to outscore the Mozambicans 22-12. It was too little too late as the Mozambican selection had already sewn up the match for an easy 67-53 win.
Abdel Sylla scored 13 points to finish as the Seychelles A teams top-scorer, while I. Matavel led the Mozambicans with 15 points.

Yesterday, Seychelles B were to meet Seychelles A in a womens match, while Seychelles B were to play the Mozambican selection and Seychelles A were to meet the Italian side in two mens matches.
http://www.nation.sc/

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SLOVAKIA

SLOVENIA

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U17

Day One in Cucuta - by Eurobasket News
U17 South American championship started yesterday in Cucuta. There are eight participants at this event and all are placed in one group. All teams will play against each other and then in the last day of the competition top two teams will play for the Gold, third and fourth teams will play for the Bronze and so on.
Argentina had a joyful Day One in Cucuta. They cruised past Chile 67-51 for 1-0 record at this event. First quarter was pretty leveled and Argentina ended it with 16-15. Chile replied for the next ten minutes and teams went to the HT with 30-30 tie. Argentina took control on Chile after the breather as they won third period 18-9. Argentina dominated in the last ten minutes as well finishing this game with comfortable 67-51.
Uruguay had to work very hard to celebrate in Day One in Cucuta. They handed 67-64 loss to Venezuela for 1-0 score at the U17 South American championship. Uruguay was slightly better team in the first half. They made 22-18 in Q1 and managed to keep plus three until the HT (31-28). After 30 minutes of play Uruguay was 50-45 up and they kept their lead for rest of the game.
Brazil easily beat Paraguay in Day One. It was a 69-40 blowout for 1-0 score at the U17 South American championship in Cucuta. Brazilians took control on Paraguay from the early beginning and never looked back. They had 14-5 and 26-12 lead. Question about the winner was decided after three quarters as Brazil was 54-29 up. Last ten minutes were just the formality.
The host of U17 South American championship enjoyed their first day in Cucuta. They blasted Ecuador 74-52 for 1-0 score at this event. Ecuador was able to resist in the first half. The hosts were 35-32 up at that time and Ecuador was still in the game, but everything changed in Q3. Colombia exploded and jumped 61-40 lead with 10:00 to go. It was too much for Ecuador, who faced with 52-74 loss at the end.

Day One
Chile - Argentina 51-67
Uruguay - Venezuela 67-64
Colombia - Ecuador 74-52
Brazil - Paraguay 69-40

Day Two
Ecuador - Argentina
Paraguay - Venezuela
Brazil - Chile
Colombia - Uruguay

Standings (Men)

Standings

1. Argentina		1-0
2. Brazil		1-0
3. Colombia		1-0
4. Uruguay		1-0
5. Venezuela		0-1
6. Ecuador		0-1
7. Paraguay		0-1
8. Chile		0-1

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SWITZERLAND

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Trinidad and Tobago Military National Team for World Military Championships in Rio de Janeiro - by Eurobasket
*10 Derrick Boxhill (180-PG-84) of Defence Force
*12 Michael Alert (201-F) of Defence Force
*20 Keivan Bacquain (202-C) of University of Trinidad and Tobago
*21 Steven Lewis (193-F) of Defence Force
*50 Wilt Vincent (201-C-79) of Defence Force
6 Cassius Humphrey (177-PG) of Defence Force
9 Devon Waddell (188-F) of Defence Force
11 Marvin Celestine (186-G) of Defence Force
14 Herdis Lewis (186-G)
53 Reyon Wilson (200-F) of Defence Force
54 Mervin Headley (198-C-74) of Defence Force
Head Coach: Mervyn Jackson

World Military Championship: Trinidad and Tobago fire past Canada - by Eurobasket News
Trinidad and Tobago - Canada 68:53

Trinidad and Tobago claimed the first win at the 2011 World Championship in Brazil. They shot down Canada in preliminary Group A tonight. Steven Lewis (193-F) knocked down 19 points to lead the winners.
Trinidad and Tobago shocked their opponents in the opening quarter. The Caribbean team outscored Canada 26:9 to comfortably set in charge. Trinidad and Tobago stayed in front throughout the second period. They posted a 33:25 halftime lead. Canada fought hard as they managed to get within 6 points at the final break. But Trinidad and Tobago nailed 20 points in the fourth quarter and ran away for the victory at the end. Herdis Lewis finished with 12 points for the winners. Derrick Boxhill (180-PG-84) had 11 points for Trinidad and Tobago. Nicolas Cooke (206-F-88) answered with 25 points and 7 rebounds for Canada. Brad Krajcik (193-G) netted 13 points in defeat. Trinidad and Tobago will take on the USA, while Canada will play against Cyprus tomorrow.

Trinidad and Tobago: Steven Lewis 19, Herdis Lewis 12, Derrick Boxhill 11
Canada: Nicolas Cooke 25, Brad Krajcik 13

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TUNISIA

TURKEY

Turkey U16 beat the hosts in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16-Turkey U16 63:77

Turkey U16 beat the hosts in Kaunas at Baltic Cup 2011. The Turkish side overcame Lithuania U16 77:63 for the second straight win.
Turkey won the opening tip 7:6 and added massive run for 20:10 after the first 10 minutes. Lithuania made their biggest run at 7-0 in the start of the second frame as they reduced to 22:19. They managed also to come closer cutting to 34:35 at the halftime. Turkey however replied with 11-0 run and grabbed 49:38 lead as they also won the third period 25-16. Turkey had 67:51 lead with 5 minutes to go and finished the game with 14-point deficit. The lead changed twice in the game, while the teams weer tied only once.
Cedi Osman (193-G-95) and Kartal Ozmizrak (181-G-95) paced all the winners with 14 points each, while Metecan Birsen netted 13. Ayberk Guleryuz (207-C/F-95) ended up with 11 as Turkey will face Estonia in Day 3. Edvinas Seskus (188-G-95) replied with 9 points in the losing effort, whilst Karolis Razukas and Ernestas Serkevicius (95) netted 8 each.

Lithuania U16: Edvinas Seskus 9, Karolis Razukas 8, Ernestas Serkevicius 8
Turkey U16: Cedi Osman 14, Kartal Ozmizrak 14, Metecan Birsen 13, Ayberk Guleryuz 11

Turkish B National Team split games in Yongcheng - by Eurobasket News
Turkish B National Team began the seconds part of Four-Nations tournament in China. The teams now moved to Yongcheng. Turkey split the first two games there.
Turkey first overcame China 78:75. Ceyhun Altay (196-G/F-86, agency: Court Side) stepped up with 23 points to pace the effort. Turkey outscored the hosts 23:14 in the opening quarter. The visitors stayed in charge throughout the second frame. They recorded a 41:27 halftime lead. China shifted the gear in the second half. They almost erased the deficit but Turkey proved calm in the decisive moments and eked out a tough win at the end. Can Altintig (195-G-87) finished with 15 points, while Ibrahim Yildirim (188-G-90) accounted for 10 points in the win. Wang ZhiZhi (214-C-79) answered with 14 points for China. LiuWei Wei (190-G-80) added 13 points in defeat.
Next Turkey faced Montenegrin B National Team. This time Turkey had to surrender 69:77 at the end. It was the second Turkish loss to Montenegro at Four-Nations tournament. They also lost in Kunshan 78:92. Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87) paced Montenegro with 24 points. Marko Popovic (200-F-85) contributed 11 points in the winning effort. Ceyhun Altay answered with 15 points for Turkey. Can Altintig netted 13 points in the loss.
Turkey will wrap up their campaign against Australia.

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Zero Tolerance Results for Sunday - by David Edole
ST. THOMAS --Dominic Purpura and Devontee Anthony have been taking turns leading Jah Youths in scoring over the course of the season. In game one of the finals in the Zero Tolerance 13-15 Basketball League it was Anthony. In game 2, it was Purpura putting in twelve points to lead Jah Youths in a come from behind effort over All Coast Ballers, 34-32. With the win, Jah Youths, the third place team, can now call themselves champions.
All Coast Ballers led 25-22 after three periods, but a switch to man to man cause several miscues and Purpura capitalized on them. Purpura scored four points in the frame and assisted on two other baskets.
Purpura led Jah Youths with 12 points and Anthony added six.
Arnold Guidare led All Coast Ballers with 11 and Akiyo Neille added nine.
In 9-12 action, Lil Lakers avenged their game one loss by outlasting Come 2 Defend, 30-26. Lil Lakers showed their outstanding three-point shooting as they nailed three in the fourth period to pull out the victory. Collins Joseph Jr. nailed his first three-pointer as time wined down in the third to give Lakers their first lead, 19-18.
The three point barrage did not end their as Issa Tatem, Antonio Warner and Joseph knocked down their attempts in the fourth. The win by Lakers sets up a final meeting Monday afternoon between the two teams. The game is scheduled for 5:00 pm at Charlotte Amalie High School.
Joseph finished with a team high of eights points and Warner and Tatem added seven each.
Jahmalikye Richardson led Come 2 Defend with 11 points and Aniquah Swan chipped in with nine.

Monday July 18th
5:00pm 9-12 Lil Lakers vs. Come 2 Defend 5 (Game3) If Necessary
7:15 pm Medics vs. Education (Game 2)

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UKRAINE

Aaron McGhee joins Khimik-OPZ Yuzny - by Eurobasket Center
Khimik-OPZ Yuzny agreed terms with 32-year old American power forward Aaron McGhee (203-F/C-79, college: Oklahoma). McGhee played this summer at Maratonistas de Coamo (Puerto Rico). The last season he spent in Israel playing for Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion. In 31 games his stats were 14.1ppg, 6.5rpg and 1.2apg. He helped Maccabi Rishon L-Z to make it to league semifinals. He was selected to the All-Str Game as well as to Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Honorable Mention. McGhee is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in China, Israel, Italy, Korea, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Spain and USA.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Belarus need overtime to edge Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Belarus - Ukraine 98:92 (OT)

Belarus celebrated the second straight win at the international friendly tournament in Mogilev. The hosts overcame Ukraine (University National Team) in overtime to stay undefeated. Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) stepped up with 19 points to pace the winners. Ukraine fell at 1-1 record after the loss.
Belarus got to the better start. They outscored the visitors for a 21:16 lead at the first break. Ukraine slowed the hosts down in the second period. The visitors got within four points at halftime 37:33. Ukraine got even closer in the third term. Led by Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) the visitors got within three points with one quarter remaining. Ukraine fired 26 points in the fourth period to level things up and forced overtime. But Belarus pulled together in the extra term. They unloaded 23 points in the next five minutes and escaped with a tough win at the end. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) accounted for 18 points and 10 rebounds for Belarus. Valery Gandlin (191-G-86) added 11 points in the victory. Maksym Kornienko answered with game-high 22 points and 11 rebounds for Ukraine. Pavlo Burenko (188-G-90) contributed 13 points in defeat.

Belarus: Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 19, Artsiom Parakhouski 18+10 boards, Valery Gandlin 11
Ukraine: Maksym Kornienko 22+11 boards, Pavlo Burenko 13

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UNITED KINGDOM

URUGUAY

U17 Uruguay starts with victory in Cucuta - by Eurobasket News
U17 Uruguay had to work very hard to celebrate in Day One in Cucuta. They handed 67-64 loss to Venezuela for 1-0 score at the U17 South American championship. Uruguay was slightly better team in the first half. They made 22-18 in Q1 and managed to keep plus three until the HT (31-28). After 30 minutes of play Uruguay was 50-45 up and they kept their lead for rest of the game. In Day Two of the championship, Uruguay will meet Colombia. Venezuela will take on Paraguay. There are eight participants at this event and all are placed in one group. All teams will play against each other and then in the last day of the competition top two teams will play for the Gold, third and fourth teams will play for the Bronze and so on. Three more games were played in Day One: Chile - Argentina 51-67, Colombia - Ecuador 74-52 and Brazil - Paraguay 69-40.

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UZBEKISTAN

VENEZUELA

Women News

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AUSTRIA - Women

U20 Austria wins ninth place in Ohrid - - by Eurobasket News
U20 AUSTRIA - U20 ESTONIA 66-59

Austria finished as No.9 of the U20 Eurobasket, Division B. They handed 66-59 loss to Estonia winning the first place in Group C. In the first game, Austria was better than FYROM 76-59, so they ended with perfect 2-0 in this pool. On the other side, Estonia dropped to 0-1. They will have to beat FYROM in order to avoid the last place at this event. Julia Koppl (187-F/C-91) came up with 15 points for the winners. Kata Takacs (184-F-91) had 11 points and 5 boards, while Milena Lazarevic (178-G/F-91) added 10 points and 8 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Janett Perv (181-F/G-91) collected 14 points and 7 rebs. Their second scorer was Mailis Pokk (185-F/C-92) with 10 pts. Quarters: 25-19, 13-2, 12-27, 16-11.

Austria: Julia Koppl 15, Kata Takacs 11+5 boards, Milena Lazarevic 10
Estonia: Janett Perv 14+7 boards, Mailis Pokk 10

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BAHAMAS - Women

Mexico heads to Big Final of U17 CentroBasket in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News
U17 Mexico - U17 Bahamas 85-33

Mexico advanced to the Big Final of U17 CentroBasket in Gurabo. They destroyed Bahamas in the Semifinals with huge 85-33. In the other Semifinals game, Puerto Rico was better than Dominican Republic 59-43, so Mexico will meet Puerto Rico in the battle for Gold. Bahamas will play against Dominican Republic for third place. Ana Karen Bernal Armendariz stepped up for Mexico in this game with double-double of 14 points and 14 rebounds. Nohemi Lopez Arguello had 13 points and 6 assists, while Maria Begona Faz Davalos added 12 points and 10 rebs. In Bahamas, Brea Forbes responded with 11 points and 7 rebs. Their second scorer was Raven Thompson with only 6 points. It is important to mention that Bahamas was scoreless for the entire first quarter, while Mexico drained 30 points on the other side. Quarters: 33-0, 14-4, 19-9, 19-20.

Mexico: Ana Karen Bernal Armendariz 14+14 boards, Nohemi Lopez Arguello 13+6 as, Maria Begona Faz Davalos 12+10 boards
Bahamas: Brea Forbes 11+7 boards, Raven Thompson 6

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BELARUS - Women

U20 Slovakia and U20 Belarus survive in Division A - by Eurobasket News
U20 SLOVAKIA - U20 BELARUS 43-53

Both teams survived in Division A. Belarus celebrated in the last day of competition handing 53-43 loss to Slovakia. However, that didn't change anything in Group G. Slovakia won this pool with almost perfect 5-1 record, while Belarus is No.2 with 4-2 score. Maryia Papova (186-F-94) and Nadzeya Bohdan (187-C-93) stepped up for the winners with 14 points and 8 rebounds each. Maryia Filonchyk (189-C/F-92) followed them with 9 pts. On the other side, Slovakia got 13 points from Angelika Slamova (172-G-94). Dominika Baburova (183-F-91) had 9 points and 6 boards. Quarters: 6-13, 6-9, 11-19, 20-12. As mentioned above, both teams will play in Division A next year.

Slovakia: Angelika Slamova 13, Dominika Baburova 9+6 boards
Belarus: Maryia Papova 14+8 boards, Nadzeya Bohdan 14+8 boards, Maryia Filonchyk 9

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BELGIUM - Women

U20 Belgium destroys U20 Bulgaria 78-37 for seventh place in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 BELGIUM - U20 BULGARIA 78-37

Belgium exploded in the last day of the competition in Ohrid. They destroyed Bulgaria 78-37 to win the seventh place at the U20 EuroBasket Division B. Bulgaria finished as No.8 at this event. Both teams survived in Division B. Noemie Mayombo (171-PG-91, agency: LBM Management) top-scored in victory with 16 points. Emmanuella Mayombo (170-G-92, agency: LBM Management) had 14 and Nele Poffyn (173-G-91) added 2 points less. In the loosing squad, Mariya Svetoslavova (178-F-93) was the leading scorer with 16 points. Tsvetromira Sharenkapova (182-F-91) stopped to 15 pts and 5 rebs. Belgium took control on Bulgaria in the second quarter and never looked back after that. Quarters: 15-10, 29-6, 15-7, 19-14.

Belgium: Noemie Mayombo 16, Emmanuella Mayombo 14, Nele Poffyn 12
Bulgaria: Mariya Svetoslavova 16, Tsvetromira Sharenkapova 15+6 boards

U20 Hungary beats U20 Belgium 79-72 - by Eurobasket News
U20 BELGIUM - U20 HUNGARY 72-79

It was the first game of the Classification Round from 5th to 8th place in Ohrid. Hungary managed to beat Belgium 79-72 and they are one step close to position No.5. If they want to take this spot, Hungary will have to beat Israel today. Belgium will play against Bulgaria and the winner will end as No.7. Anna Mansare (188-F/C-92) had no mercy for their rivals in this game scoring 25 points. Reka Balint (182-F-91) (8 rebs) and Bettina Szabo (168-G-92) netted 18 points each. Nele Poffyn (173-G-91) responded with 16 points on the other side. Noemie Mayombo and Jaleesa Maes (188-C-92) (11 rebs) had 14 and 13 points respectively. Quarters: 18-16, 18-25, 19-15, 17-23. Today is the last day of the championship in Ohrid.

Belgium: Nele Poffyn 16, Bettina Szabo 14, Jaleesa Maes 13+11 boards
Hungary: Anna Mansare 25, Reka Balint 18+8 boards, Bettina Szabo 18

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BULGARIA - Women

U20 Israel hands 68-57 loss to U20 Bulgaria in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 BULGARIA - U20 ISRAEL 57-68

Israel made a first step forward to fifth place in Ohrid. They outplayed Bulgaria 68-57 yesterday, so the first obstacle is successfully passed. In order to win the position No.5, Israel will have to beat Hungary today. Bulgaria will meet Belgium in the battle for seventh place. Bar Galinski (185-F-92) once again was the leading player in victory. She spent 35 minutes on the court registering double-double of 24 points and 18 rebounds. Eloisa Katz (182-F/C-91) scored 17 and Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) added three points less than her. In Bulgaria, Violina Kocheva (176-G/F-91) top-scored with 19 points. Mariya Svetoslavova (178-F-93) had 12 points and 7 rebounds, while Tsvetromira Sharenkapova (182-F-91) added 8 pts, plus 10 boards. Quarters: 15-10, 15-20, 19-21, 8-17. Championship ends today.

Bulgaria: Violina Kocheva 19, Mariya Svetoslavova 12+7 boards, Tsvetromira Sharenkapova 8+10 boards
Israel: Bar Galinski 24+18 boards, Eloisa Katz 17, Hadar Gutin 14

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CAYMAN ISLANDS - Women

U17 US Virgins Islands keep U17 Cayman Islands winless, 80-42 - by Eurobasket News
U17 Cayman Islands - U17 US Virgin Islands 42-80

US Virgin Islands registered their second victory in Gurabo. It was the first game of the Classification Round and US Virgin Islands made a step forward to fifth place at U17 CentroBasket. In order to win it, they will have to beat Guatemala today. On the other side, Cayman Islands ended as the last ranked team at this event. Edidiong Beulah Utibe exploded with monster double-double of 33 points and 26 rebounds for the winners. J'Lene Ebone Martinez scored 13 points, while Merissa Murphy added 12 points and 12 boards. In Cayman Islands, La-Torae Joan Nixon collected 20 points and 8 rebounds. Felicia Janelle Connor (7 rebs) and Rochel Gabrela Gardener scored 8 and 6 points respectively. Quarters: 4-17, 7-17, 14-23, 17-23.

Cayman Islands: La-Torae Joan Nixon 20+8 boards, Felicia Janelle Connor 8+7 boards, Rochel Gabrela Gardener 6
US Virgin Islands: Edidiong Beulah Utibe 33+26 boards, J'Lene Ebone Martinez 13, Merissa Murphy 12+12 boards

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CENTROBASKET U17 - Women

Mexico and Puerto Rico to fight for the Gold - by Eurobasket News
SEMIFINALS

U17 Mexico - U17 Bahamas 85-33
Mexico advanced to the Big Final of U17 CentroBasket in Gurabo. They destroyed Bahamas in the Semifinals with huge 85-33. In the other Semifinals game, Puerto Rico was better than Dominican Republic 59-43, so Mexico will meet Puerto Rico in the battle for Gold. Bahamas will play against Dominican Republic for third place. Ana Karen Bernal Armendariz stepped up for Mexico in this game with double-double of 14 points and 14 rebounds. Nohemi Lopez Arguello had 13 points and 6 assists, while Maria Begona Faz Davalos added 12 points and 10 rebs. In Bahamas, Brea Forbes responded with 11 points and 7 rebs. Their second scorer was Raven Thompson with only 6 points. It is important to mention that Bahamas was scoreless for the entire first quarter, while Mexico drained 30 points on the other side. Quarters: 33-0, 14-4, 19-9, 19-20.

Mexico: Ana Karen Bernal Armendariz 14+14 boards, Nohemi Lopez Arguello 13+6 as, Maria Begona Faz Davalos 12+10 boards
Bahamas: Brea Forbes 11+7 boards, Raven Thompson 6

U17 Dominican Republic - U17 Puerto Rico 43-59
Puerto Rico will play in the Finals of U17 CentroBasket in Gurabo. The host of this event cruised past Dominican Republic 59-43 to reach the Gold medal game. There, Puerto Rico will meet Mexico. On the other side, Dominican Republic will play against Bahamas for third place. Diamalises Rivera Barcelo came up with 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Aleana Lyd Leon Garcia had 10 points and 6 boards, while Claudia Alejandra Ortiz Ledesma added 9 points. In the loosing squad, Cheisy Carolay Hernandez collected 13 points and 5 rebs. Yamel Vanessa Abreu Alvarez followed her with 11 points, 6 rebs ad 5 assists. Quarters: 12-14, 4-19, 14-10, 13-16. Sunday is the last day of the competition.

Dominican Republic: Cheisy Carolay Hernandez 13+5 boards, Yamel Vanessa Abreu Alvarez 11+6 boards+5 as
Puerto Rico: Diamalises Rivera Barcelo 15+6 boards, Aleana Lyd Leon Garcia 10+6 boards, Claudia Alejandra Ortiz Ledesma 9

PLACES 5-7

U17 Cayman Islands - U17 US Virgin Islands 42-80
US Virgin Islands registered their second victory in Gurabo. It was the first game of the Classification Round and US Virgin Islands made a step forward to fifth place at U17 CentroBasket. In order to win it, they will have to beat Guatemala today. On the other side, Cayman Islands ended as the last ranked team at this event. Edidiong Beulah Utibe exploded with monster double-double of 33 points and 26 rebounds for the winners. J'Lene Ebone Martinez scored 13 points, while Merissa Murphy added 12 points and 12 boards. In Cayman Islands, La-Torae Joan Nixon collected 20 points and 8 rebounds. Felicia Janelle Connor (7 rebs) and Rochel Gabrela Gardener scored 8 and 6 points respectively. Quarters: 4-17, 7-17, 14-23, 17-23.

Cayman Islands: La-Torae Joan Nixon 20+8 boards, Felicia Janelle Connor 8+7 boards, Rochel Gabrela Gardener 6
US Virgin Islands: Edidiong Beulah Utibe 33+26 boards, J'Lene Ebone Martinez 13, Merissa Murphy 12+12 boards

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CROATIA - Women

U16 Serbia beats U16 Croatia 77-64 in another friendly - by Eurobasket News
U16 Serbia - U16 Croatia 77-64

Serbia and Croatia met in a another friendly game. This time Serbia was better celebrating 77-64 victory against their rivals. In their first meeting Croatia registered 68-63 win. Aleksandra Crvendakic (186-C/F-96) was a key player in Serbia with 24 points. Mandic had 12 and Andjelkovic added two points less than her. On the other side, Croatia got 18 points from Perisa. Saric and Butina had 12 and 9 pts respectively. Serbia was better team at the beginning as they made 19-13 lead in the first ten minutes. However, Croatia replied after that making 18-22 in Q2. Third period was totally leveled as each of two teams scored 22 pts. Last quarter was the crucial one in this meeting. Serbia stopped their rival to just 7 points, while they drained 18 on the other side for the final 77-64 victory.

Serbia: Aleksandra Crvendakic 24, Mandic 12, Andjelkovic 10
Croatia: Perisa 18, Saric 12, Butina 9

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

U20 Portugal wins the promotion to Division A, goes to Finals in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 CZECH REPUBLIC - U20 PORTUGAL 60-63

Portugal advanced to Big Final of the U20 EuroBasket Division B in Ohrid. They outsmarted Czech Republic 63-60 to reach the Gold medal game and also thanks to this win Portugal won the promotion to Division A. Their rival in the Finals will be Sweden, who was better than Greece in the Semis. Czech Republic failed to win the promotion and will meet Greece for the Bronze. Maria Correia (174-G/F-91) stepped up for the winners with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Maria Joao Andrade (186-F/C-92) had 14 points and 5 boards, while Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) added 13 points and 5 assists. In defeat, Lenka Bartakova (176-G-91) delivered 16 points. Petra Zaplatova (175-G/F-91) had 15 points and 7 rebs, while Adela Filarova (174-G-91) stopped to 12 pts. It was a game full of turns, but Portugal was more focused in the finish to take this win. Quarters: 24-14, 3-14, 11-15, 22-20. Today is the last day of the championship.

Czech Republic: Lenka Bartakova 16, Petra Zaplatova 15+7 boards, Adela Filarova 12
Portugal: Maria Correia 21+8 boards, Maria Joao Andrade 14+5 boards, Michelle Brandao 13+5 as

U20 Greece wins third place in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 GREECE - U20 CZECH REPUBLIC 60-59

Greece won the Bronze in Ohrid. They grabbed 60-59 thriller win against Czech Republic today to win the medal. Czech Republic finished as No.4 and both teams failed to reach Division A. Sweden and Portugal will compete there next season. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) came up with 17 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) and Zafeira Giampani (185-C-92) (6 rebs) added 13 and 11 points respectively. On the other side, Lenka Bartakova (176-G-91) was the best player in Czech Republic. She had 20 points and 6 rebounds in this meeting. Alena Hanusova (190-F/C-91) scored 18 pts. Quarters: 17-18, 19-13, 14-16, 10-12.

Greece: Artemis Spanou 17+10 boards, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 13, Zafeira Giampani 11+6 boards
Czech Repiublic: Lenka Bartakova 20+6 boards, Alena Hanusova 18

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Women

U17 Puerto Rico eliminates U17 Dominican Republic 59-43 in the Semis - by Eurobasket News
U17 Dominican Republic - U17 Puerto Rico 43-59

Puerto Rico will play in the Finals of U17 CentroBasket in Gurabo. The host of this event cruised past Dominican Republic 59-43 to reach the Gold medal game. There, Puerto Rico will meet Mexico. On the other side, Dominican Republic will play against Bahamas for third place. Diamalises Rivera Barcelo came up with 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Aleana Lyd Leon Garcia had 10 points and 6 boards, while Claudia Alejandra Ortiz Ledesma added 9 points. In the loosing squad, Cheisy Carolay Hernandez collected 13 points and 5 rebs. Yamel Vanessa Abreu Alvarez followed her with 11 points, 6 rebs ad 5 assists. Quarters: 12-14, 4-19, 14-10, 13-16. Sunday is the last day of the competition.

Dominican Republic: Cheisy Carolay Hernandez 13+5 boards, Yamel Vanessa Abreu Alvarez 11+6 boards+5 as
Puerto Rico: Diamalises Rivera Barcelo 15+6 boards, Aleana Lyd Leon Garcia 10+6 boards, Claudia Alejandra Ortiz Ledesma 9

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ESTONIA - Women

The final push allowed Latvia U16 to beat Estonia U16 - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16-Estonia U16 66:53

Latvia U16 edged Estonia U16 in Kaunas at the Baltic Cup 2011. In Day 2 Latvia celebrated the initial 66:53 victory for 1-1 record.
It was the slowest start ever between the teams as after the first five minutes Estonia led 1-0. They increased to 12:5 at the end of the frame bit could not win the game. Latvia reduced to 23:21 at the halftime and tied the game at 33:33 after 25 minutes of the game. Estonia still had 45:43 lead after thirty minutes, while Latvia took the lead at 50:49 with 5 minutes to go. The erupted with 16-4 in the last five minutes to seal the victory. The lead changed 9 times in the game, while the squads were tied 4 times.

Kate Kreslina and Kitija Laksa poured in 13 points each, whilst Kate Visnevica (175-G-95) netted 9. Jane Svilberg (178-F/C-95) finished the game with 19 points and Trine Kasemagi (189-C-95) scored 10.

Latvia U16: Kate Kreslina 13, Kitija Laksa 13, Kate Visnevica 9
Estonia U16: Jane Svilberg 19, Trine Kasemagi 10

U20 Estonia avoid last place in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 ESTONIA - U20 FYR MACEDONIA 73-65

Estonia avoided last place in Ohrid. They celebrated 73-65 win against FYROM to end as No.10 at the U20 EuroBasket Division B. The host of this event finished as No.11. They are the only winless team. Mailis Pokk (185-F/C-92) shined in victory with 22 points and 8 rebounds. Annika Koster (185-F/C-92) had 13 points and 7 rebs, while Marit Maaring (178-G-91) added 9 points. For the hosts, Andzelika Mitrasinovik (175-G-93) delivered 22 points. Sanja Radenkovik (178-G/F-91) had 15 pts and 7 rebs, and Vanesa Vasilevska (180-F-92) added 13 pts. Except of the first one, Estonia won all other periods in this game. Quarters: 13-15, 19-16, 24-18, 17-16.

Estonia: Mailis Pokk 22+8 boards, Annika Koster 13+7 boards, Marit Maaring 9
FYROM: Andzelika Mitrasinovik 22, Sanja Radenkovik 15+7 boards, Vanesa Vasilevska 13

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EUROCUP - Women

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

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

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

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

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

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

Greater competence

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

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

Here is the analysis by Nuno Ferreira :

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

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

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

The Eurocup Women play the first game at the beginning of November.

Check out for more at www.porbasket.blogspot.com

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20 - Women

Division B: Sweden and Portugal head to Finals, win promotion to Division A - by Eurobasket News
Sweden - Greece 72-70
Sweden grabbed 72-70 thriller win against Greece in the Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket, Division B. It means that Sweden advanced to Big Final and at the same time they earned a promotion to Division A. Their rival in the Finals will be Portugal. On the other side, Greece failed to win the promotion and they will meet Czech Republic in the battle for Bronze. Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) was a key player in victory with 25 points. She was almost perfect in this game winning the Co-MVP title with valuation 29. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) and Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) helped with 14 points each. In the loosing squad, Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) shined with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Georgia Kantara (176-G-93) (5 rebs, 5 as) and Anastasia Slouka (182-G-93) netted 13 points each. Quarters: 20-16, 23-14, 18-21, 11-19. Sunday is the last day of the competition.

Czech Republic - Portugal 60-63
Portugal advanced to Big Final of the U20 EuroBasket Division B in Ohrid. They outsmarted Czech Republic 63-60 to reach the Gold medal game and also thanks to this win Portugal won the promotion to Division A. Their rival in the Finals will be Sweden, who was better than Greece in the Semis. Czech Republic failed to win the promotion and will meet Greece for the Bronze. Maria Correia (174-G/F-91) stepped up for the winners with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Maria Joao Andrade (186-F/C-92) had 14 points and 5 boards, while Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) added 13 points and 5 assists. In defeat, Lenka Bartakova (176-G-91) delivered 16 points. Petra Zaplatova (175-G/F-91) had 15 points and 7 rebs, while Adela Filarova (174-G-91) stopped to 12 pts. It was a game full of turns, but Portugal was more focused in the finish to take this win. Quarters: 24-14, 3-14, 11-15, 22-20. Today is the last day of the championship.

Places 5-8

Bulgaria - Israel 57-68
Israel made a first step forward to fifth place in Ohrid. They outplayed Bulgaria 68-57 yesterday, so the first obstacle is successfully passed. In order to win the position No.5, Israel will have to beat Hungary today. Bulgaria will meet Belgium in the battle for seventh place. Bar Galinski (185-F-92) once again was the leading player in victory. She spent 35 minutes on the court registering double-double of 24 points and 18 rebounds. Eloisa Katz (182-F/C-91) scored 17 and Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) added three points less than her. In Bulgaria, Violina Kocheva (176-G/F-91) top-scored with 19 points. Mariya Svetoslavova (178-F-93) had 12 points and 7 rebounds, while Tsvetromira Sharenkapova (182-F-91) added 8 pts, plus 10 boards. Quarters: 15-10, 15-20, 19-21, 8-17. Championship ends today.

Belgium - Hungary 72-79
It was the first game of the Classification Round from 5th to 8th place in Ohrid. Hungary managed to beat Belgium 79-72 and they are one step close to position No.5. If they want to take this spot, Hungary will have to beat Israel today. Belgium will play against Bulgaria and the winner will end as No.7. Anna Mansare (188-F/C-92) had no mercy for their rivals in this game scoring 25 points. Reka Balint (182-F-91) (8 rebs) and Bettina Szabo (168-G-92) netted 18 points each. Nele Poffyn (173-G-91) responded with 16 points on the other side. Noemie Mayombo and Jaleesa Maes (188-C-92) (11 rebs) had 14 and 13 points respectively. Quarters: 18-16, 18-25, 19-15, 17-23. Today is the last day of the championship in Ohrid.

Group C, Places 9-11

Austria - Estonia 66-59
Austria finished as No.9 of the U20 Eurobasket, Division B. They handed 66-59 loss to Estonia winning the first place in Group C. In the first game, Austria was better than FYROM 76-59, so they ended with perfect 2-0 in this pool. On the other side, Estonia dropped to 0-1. They will have to beat FYROM in order to avoid the last place at this event. Julia Koppl (187-F/C-91) came up with 15 points for the winners. Kata Takacs (184-F-91) had 11 points and 5 boards, while Milena Lazarevic (178-G/F-91) added 10 points and 8 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Janett Perv (181-F/G-91) collected 14 points and 7 rebs. Their second scorer was Mailis Pokk (185-F/C-92) with 10 pts. Quarters: 25-19, 13-2, 12-27, 16-11.

W-Standings - Group A

Standings

Group E
1. Russia		4-1
2. Serbia		3-2
3. Poland		3-2
4. Ukraine		3-2
5. Lithuania		1-4
6. Turkey		1-4
Group F
1. Spain		5-0
2. France		3-2
3. Italy		3-2
4. U.Kingdom		2-3
5. Latvia		1-4
6. Holland		1-4
Group Places 13-16
1. Slovakia		5-1
2. Belarus		4-2
3. Germany		2-4
4. Romania		1-5

Stats Leaders (Women)

Points Per Game

Alina IAGUPOVA
(181-G-92)
Avg: 16.6

1. Iagupova, UKR	16.6
2. Malashenko, UKR	16.4
3. Krnjic, SRB	15.8
4. Greinacher, GER	14.9
5. Yavas, TUR	14.8
6. Okockyte, LTU	14.1
7. Misiuk, POL	13.1
8. Zietara, POL	13.0
9. Maznichenko, UKR	13.0
10. Niedola, LAT	12.9

Rebounds Per Game

Monika GRIGALAUSKYTE
(187-F-92)
Avg: 13.9

1. Grigalauskyt., LTU	13.9
2. Ural, TUR	13.4
3. Van Grinsven, NED	11.6
4. Minte, FRA	11.6
5. Krnjic, SRB	11.4
6. Malashenko, UKR	9.9
7. Vitola, LAT	9.8
8. Svaryte, LTU	9.3
9. Greinacher, GER	9.2
10. Niedola, LAT	9.1

Assists Per Game

Alina IAGUPOVA
(181-G-92)
Avg: 5.6

1. Iagupova, UKR	5.6
2. Panevina, RUS	3.2
3. Zietara, POL	3.0
4. Yavas, TUR	3.0
5. Kuras, POL	3.0
6. Rodriguez Ma., ESP	3.0
7. Bestagno, ITA	2.9
8. Niedola, LAT	2.9
9. Cora, TUR	2.8
10. Colic, SRB	2.8

Steals Per Game

Queralt CASAS
(180-G-92)
Avg: 3.4

1. Casas, ESP	3.4
2. Ursu, ROM	2.6
3. Butter, NED	2.4
4. Iagupova, UKR	2.3
5. Takmaz, TUR	2.3
6. Bigica, ROM	2.3
7. Ble, ESP	2.2
8. Tognalini, ITA	2.1
9. Markovic, SRB	2.0
10. Oravcova, SVK	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Ella CLARK
  ENG
  (190-F-92)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Clark, ENG	1.8
2. Ajdukovic, SRB	1.7
3. Vitola, LAT	1.5
4. Van Grinsven, NED	1.4
5. Krnjic, SRB	1.4
6. Tarasova, RUS	1.3
7. Iagupova, UKR	1.3
8. Eustache, FRA	1.2
9. Greinacher, GER	1.1
10. Filonchyk, BLR	1.1

Division B: Sweden is the champion in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

Sweden - Portugal 64-55
Sweden is the winner of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Ohrid. They outplayed Portugal 64-55 in a game which ended just few minutes ago. Silver belongs to Portugal. It is very important to mention that both teams earned a promotion to Division A, where they will compete next year. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) stepped up for Sweden with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Frida Fogdemark (187-F-91) scored 11 points and Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) added 8 points, plus 7 rebounds. In Portugal, Maria Joao Andrade (186-F/C-92) delivered 15 points. Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) had 12 points and 9 rebs, while Daniela Domingues (176-F/G-92) added 10 points and 6 rebs. Quarters: 14-14, 15-11, 16-13, 19-17. Sweden was the winner of Preliminary Group A with perfect 4-0 record. They eliminated Belgium and Greece in the Quarterfinals and Semis.

Places 3-4

Greece - Czech Republic 60-59
Sweden is the winner of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Ohrid. They outplayed Portugal 64-55 in a game which ended just few minutes ago. Silver belongs to Portugal. It is very important to mention that both teams earned a promotion to Division A, where they will compete next year. Farhiya Abdi stepped up for Sweden with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Frida Fogdemark scored 11 points and Cleopatra Forsman-Goga added 8 points, plus 7 rebounds. In Portugal, Maria Joao Andrade delivered 15 points. Michelle Brandao had 12 points and 9 rebs, while Daniela Domingues added 10 points and 6 rebs. Quarters: 14-14, 15-11, 16-13, 19-17. Sweden was the winner of Preliminary Group A with perfect 4-0 record. They eliminated Belgium and Greece in the Quarterfinals and Semis.

Places 5-6

Hungary - Israel 66-81
Israel won in the last day of the U20 EuroBasket Division B. They outplayed Hungary 81-66 taking the fifth place in Ohrid. Of course, Hungary ended as No.6 at this event. Israel had impressive first and last quarter, what was enough for the victory today. Bar Galinski (185-F-92) stepped up for her team with 24 points and 17 rebounds. She reached valuation 34 and was the MVP of this meeting. Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) scored 15 and Shira Shecht (183-F-91) added one point less. In defeat, Reka Balint (182-F-91) collected 19 points and 5 rebounds. Flora Szabo (188-F-92) and Anna Mansare (188-F/C-92) scored 14 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 16-28, 14-4, 20-24, 16-25.

Places 7-8

Belgium - Bulgaria 78-37
Belgium exploded in the last day of the competition in Ohrid. They destroyed Bulgaria 78-37 to win the seventh place at the U20 EuroBasket Division B. Bulgaria finished as No.8 at this event. Both teams survived in Division B. Noemie Mayombo (171-PG-91, agency: LBM Management) top-scored in victory with 16 points. Emmanuella Mayombo (170-G-92, agency: LBM Management) had 14 and Nele Poffyn (173-G-91) added 2 points less. In the loosing squad, Mariya Svetoslavova (178-F-93) was the leading scorer with 16 points. Tsvetromira Sharenkapova (182-F-91) stopped to 15 pts and 5 rebs. Belgium took control on Bulgaria in the second quarter and never looked back after that. Quarters: 15-10, 29-6, 15-7, 19-14.

Places 9-11, Group C

Estonia - FYR Macedonia 73-65
Estonia avoided last place in Ohrid. They celebrated 73-65 win against FYROM to end as No.10 at the U20 EuroBasket Division B. The host of this event finished as No.11. They are the only winless team. Mailis Pokk (185-F/C-92) shined in victory with 22 points and 8 rebounds. Annika Koster (185-F/C-92) had 13 points and 7 rebs, while Marit Maaring (178-G-91) added 9 points. For the hosts, Andzelika Mitrasinovik (175-G-93) delivered 22 points. Sanja Radenkovik (178-G/F-91) had 15 pts and 7 rebs, and Vanesa Vasilevska (180-F-92) added 13 pts. Except of the first one, Estonia won all other periods in this game. Quarters: 13-15, 19-16, 24-18, 17-16.

Division A: Spain dethrones Russia, wins the Gold in Novi Sad! - by Eurobasket News
FINAL

Russia - Spain 53-62
Spain is the winner of U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. They dethroned defending champion Russia 62-53 in the Big Final. Same teams met in the 2010 Finals as well, but Russia celebrated in that meeting. Queralt Casas (180-G-92) was a key player in Spain with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Leonor Rodriguez Manso (181-G-91) had 9 points and 5 rebounds, while Vega Gimeno Martinez helped with 8 points. In the loosing squad, Anastasiya Shilova (185-F/G-91) shined with double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds. Alexandra Tarasova (194-C-91) (6 rebs), Evgeniya Finogentova (174-G-91) and Yana Panevina (168-G-91) scored 6 points each. Spain opened this game with quick 4-10 lead and managed to keep plus 6 for rest of the first quarter, 10-16. They jumped to plus 10 at the halfway of the second period and Yana Panevina cut the margin to 21-29 at the HT. Russia shined after the breather making 14-5 run and it was their first lead in this meeting, which they were not able to keep for rest of the Q3. Spain made 40-42 with 10:00 to go. For the next seven minutes Spain exploded with 3-15 run and resolved question about the winner. They closed this meeting in style winning the Gold medal in Novi Sad. Silver belongs to Russia.

Places 3-4

Poland - Serbia 67-65
Poland won the Bronze at U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. They met the host of this event and handed them 67-65 loss in a game for third place. It was a very exciting meeting and everything was open until the very end. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) once again was the leading player in Poland with 16 points. Agnieszka Sniezek (176-G-91) followed her with 10 points and 7 rebounds, while Malgorzata Misiuk (184-F-91) added 9 pts and 10 boards. For the hosts, Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) shined with 18 points and 16 rebounds. Neda Nikolic (181-F/C-91) scored 13 points and Marina Markovic (181-G/F-91) added 11 pts, plus 10 boards. Poland made 19-17 lead in the first ten minutes and jumped to plus 10 until the halftime, 41-31. However, Sara Krnjic and her teammates replied with 13-23 after the breather and everything was open again. Poland went to last 30 seconds with 64-63 lead, but Ajdukovic made a lay-up for Serbia with 20 second remaining. Kuras answered with a lay-up for Poland and Serbia had a possession with 14 seconds to go. Marina Markovic tried to make it from behind the arc, but she missed and Poland grabbed the ball. Agnieszka Sniezek drew a foul and made one free throw for Poland with 2 second to go. There was not enough time for Serbia and Markovic tried from very difficult position and of course missed. Poland won the game and the Bronze in Novi Sad. Serbia stays without the medal.

Places 5-6

France - Ukraine 63-62
France won the fifth place at U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. They grabbed 63-62 thriller win against France in the last day of the competition. Ukraine is the sixth ranked team at this event. Hhadydia Minte (187-F-91) exploded with double-double of 15 points and 21 rebounds for France. She reached valuation 34 and was the MVP of this meeting. Isabelle Strunc (179-G-91) had 14 points and Clementine Samson (181-G/F-91) added four points less. In Ukraine, Olesia Malashenko (189-F-91, agency: LBM Management) collected 21 points and 8 rebounds. Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91, agency: LBM Management) (5 rebs) had 14 pts, while Alina Iagupova (181-G-92, agency: LBM Management) added 12 pts, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Isabelle Strunc made a jump shot with 2 seconds left to secure the victory for France. Quarters: 14-16, 19-14, 14-14, 16-18. Both teams will compete again in Division A.

Places 7-8

United Kingdom - Italy 48-60
Italy celebrated in the last day of the competition in Novi Sad. They outplayed United Kingdom 80-48 to win the seventh place at U20 EuroBasket. UK ended as No.8 and of course both teams will compete in Division A again. Federica Tognalini (183-F-91) was better than the others in victory with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Laura Spreafico (182-F/G-91) had 12 pts and 6 boards, while Alessandra Tava (184-F/C-91) added 11 points. In UK, Temitope Fagbenle (191-F-92) collected 10 points and 8 rebounds. Katrin Chiemeka (170-G-91) also scored 10, while Kristie Sheils (170-G-91) stopped to 8 points. Quarters: 8-19, 14-16, 10-7, 16-18. Italy and UK failed in the Quarterfinals of this event. Italy lost against Serbia 55-60, while UK faced with 37-68 defeat against Russia.

Places 13-16, Group G

Romania - Germany 50-44
This game was just the formality as everything was clear even before it. Both teams faced with relegation from Division A. Romania handed 50-44 loss to Germany today, but it is just their first win at this event. Romania ended the last ranked team in Novi Sad, while Germany is No.15 with 2-4 record in Group G. Romania has 1-5. Sonia Ursu (175-G/F-93) led Romania to victory today with 19 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists. She reached valuation 27 and was the MVP of this meeting. Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) had 11 points and 7 boards, while Alina Craciun (194-C-93) added 8 pts and 9 rebs. In the loosing squad, Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92) collected 12 points and 10 rebounds. Julia Kohlmann (172-G-92) stopped to 10 pts and Sarah-Marie Frankenberger (180-F-91) (5 rebs) added one point less. Quarters: 8-16, 4-13, 18-9, 20-6.

Slovakia - Belarus 43-53
Both teams survived in Division A. Belarus celebrated in the last day of competition handing 53-43 loss to Slovakia. However, that didn't change anything in Group G. Slovakia won this pool with almost perfect 5-1 record, while Belarus is No.2 with 4-2 score. Maryia Papova (186-F-94) and Nadzeya Bohdan (187-C-93) stepped up for the winners with 14 points and 8 rebounds each. Maryia Filonchyk (189-C/F-92) followed them with 9 pts. On the other side, Slovakia got 13 points from Angelika Slamova (172-G-94). Dominika Baburova (183-F-91) had 9 points and 6 boards. Quarters: 6-13, 6-9, 11-19, 20-12. As mentioned above, both teams will play in Division A next year.

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FINLAND - Women

Finland U16 celebrated the the second straight win at the Baltic Cup 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Finland U16-Lithuania U16 67:57

Finland U16 celebrated the the second straight win at the Baltic Cup 2011. They edged the hosts 67:57 in Kaunas to hand them their first loss.
The hosts started with 9:4 in the opening tip and won the first period 16:10. Finland however responded immediately in the start of the second frame and grabbed 20-19 advantage. They had 37:36 halftime advantage when the teams went to the lockers. The Final push Finland made at the end of the game as they increased the lead to 10 points in the last minutes. The biggest lead of the Finnish side was 10 points, while Lithuania enjoyed 8 points.
Ninni Salmi (182-F-96) poured in 12 points for the winners, while Petra Naponen nailed 11. Anni Jamsa (164-G-95) notched 10, whilst Moona Hamalainen (184-F/C-95) added 8. Dalia Belickaite answered with 18 points in the losing effort and Ruta Savickaite notched 7.

Finland U16: Ninni Salmi 12, Petra Naponen 11, Anni Jamsa 10, Moona Hamalainen 8
Lithuania U16: Dalia Belickaite 18, Ruta Savickaite 7

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FRANCE - Women

U20 France beats U20 Ukraine in thriller 63-62, wins fifth place in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News
U20 FRANCE - U20 UKRAINE 63-62

France won the fifth place at U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. They grabbed 63-62 thriller win against France in the last day of the competition. Ukraine is the sixth ranked team at this event. Hhadydia Minte (187-F-91) exploded with double-double of 15 points and 21 rebounds for France. She reached valuation 34 and was the MVP of this meeting. Isabelle Strunc (179-G-91) had 14 points and Clementine Samson (181-G/F-91) added four points less. In Ukraine, Olesia Malashenko (189-F-91, agency: LBM Management) collected 21 points and 8 rebounds. Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91, agency: LBM Management) (5 rebs) had 14 pts, while Alina Iagupova (181-G-92, agency: LBM Management) added 12 pts, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Isabelle Strunc made a jump shot with 2 seconds left to secure the victory for France. Quarters: 14-16, 19-14, 14-14, 16-18. Both teams will compete again in Division A.

France: Hhadydia Minte 15+21 boads, Isabelle Strunc 14, Clementine Samson 10
Ukraine: Olesia Malashenko 21+8 boards, Olga Maznichenko 14+5 boards, Alina Iagupova 12+9 boards+5 as

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FYR MACEDONIA - Women

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GERMANY - Women

U20 Romania and U20 Germany say goodbye to Division A - by Eurobasket News
U20 ROMANIA - U20 GERMANY 50-44

This game was just the formality as everything was clear even before it. Both teams faced with relegation from Division A. Romania handed 50-44 loss to Germany today, but it is just their first win at this event. Romania ended the last ranked team in Novi Sad, while Germany is No.15 with 2-4 record in Group G. Romania has 1-5. Sonia Ursu (175-G/F-93) led Romania to victory today with 19 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists. She reached valuation 27 and was the MVP of this meeting. Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) had 11 points and 7 boards, while Alina Craciun (194-C-93) added 8 pts and 9 rebs. In the loosing squad, Sonja Greinacher (188-F/C-92) collected 12 points and 10 rebounds. Julia Kohlmann (172-G-92) stopped to 10 pts and Sarah-Marie Frankenberger (180-F-91) (5 rebs) added one point less. Quarters: 8-16, 4-13, 18-9, 20-6.

Romania: Sonia Ursu 19+10 boards+9 as, Cristina Bigica 11+7 boards, Alina Craciun 8+9 boards
Germany: Sonja Greinacher 12+10 boards, Julia Kohlmann 10, Sarah-Marie Frankenberger 9+5 boards

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GREECE - Women

U20 Sweden heads to Big Final in Ohrid, wins promotion to Division A - by Eurobasket News
U20 SWEDEN - U20 GREECE 72-70

Sweden grabbed 72-70 thriller win against Greece in the Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket, Division B. It means that Sweden advanced to Big Final and at the same time they earned a promotion to Division A. Their rival in the Finals will be Portugal. On the other side, Greece failed to win the promotion and they will meet Czech Republic in the battle for Bronze. Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) was a key player in victory with 25 points. She was almost perfect in this game winning the Co-MVP title with valuation 29. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) and Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) helped with 14 points each. In the loosing squad, Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) shined with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Georgia Kantara (176-G-93) (5 rebs, 5 as) and Anastasia Slouka (182-G-93) netted 13 points each. Quarters: 20-16, 23-14, 18-21, 11-19. Sunday is the last day of the competition.

Sweden: Cleopatra Forsman-Goga 25, Farhiya Abdi 14, Binta Drammeh 14
Greece: Artemis Spanou 24+12 boards, Georgia Kantara 13+5 boards+5 as, Anastasia Slouka 13

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HUNGARY - Women

U20 Israel outplays U20 Hungary 81-66 for the fifth place in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 HUNGARY - U20 ISRAEL 66-81

Israel won in the last day of the U20 EuroBasket Division B. They outplayed Hungary 81-66 taking the fifth place in Ohrid. Of course, Hungary ended as No.6 at this event. Israel had impressive first and last quarter, what was enough for the victory today. Bar Galinski (185-F-92) stepped up for her team with 24 points and 17 rebounds. She reached valuation 34 and was the MVP of this meeting. Hadar Gutin (182-F/G-91) scored 15 and Shira Shecht (183-F-91) added one point less. In defeat, Reka Balint (182-F-91) collected 19 points and 5 rebounds. Flora Szabo (188-F-92) and Anna Mansare (188-F/C-92) scored 14 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 16-28, 14-4, 20-24, 16-25.

Hungary: Reka Balint 19+15 boards, Flora Szabo 14, Anna Mansare 12
Israel: Bar Galinski 24+17 boards, Hadar Gutin 15, Shira Shecht 14

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ISRAEL - Women

JIA PERKINS SIGN WITH RAMAT HASHARON ! - by Gil Goshen

Jia Perkins has decided to return playing for Ramat Hasharon.
Jia played for Electra two seasons led the team win the champion 2008/9.
Orna Ostffeld will continue coaching the team and Tamar Maoz will be her assistant.

2010: Chicago Sky (WNBA, starting five): 34 games: 10.7ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.4apg, Steals-5 (1.6spg), FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 81.4%
2010-2011: in Jan.'11 signed at Ceyhan Belediyespor (Turkey-TKBL, starting five): 13 games: 13.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.2apg, Steals-1 (2.3spg), FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 88.0%
2011: San Antonio Silver Stars (WNBA) Jia Perkins (173-G-82, agency: Merit Sports, college: Texas Tech)

RAMAT HASHARON SIGN PORSHA PHILLIPS ! - by Gil Goshen

Ramat Hasharon added to their roster Porsha Phillips who will join to Jia Perkins.
Porsha was dreffted 30th by the San Antonio Silver Star was 2010-11 First-team All-SEC...Among SEC leaders, No. 1 in rebounding, No. 1 in FT percentage and No. 5 in blocks.
2008-2009: Georgia (NCAA, starting five): 32 games: 10.5ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.4apg, 1.2spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 45.1%, 3Pts: 25.0%, FT: 75.0%
2009-2010: Georgia (NCAA, starting five): 34 games: 8.7ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.3spg, 1.6bpg, FGP: 36.5%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 64.4%
2010-2011: Georgia (NCAA, starting five): 34 games: 10.8ppg, 10.7rpg, 1.6apg, 1.4spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 39.6%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 80.7%.
Ramat Hasharon will definitely will be on the top this season as they were 20 years. Porsha Phillips (187-F-88, college: Georgia)

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ITALY - Women

Seventh place in Novi Sad belongs to U20 Italy - by Eurobasket News
UNITED KINGDOM - ITALY 48-60

Italy celebrated in the last day of the competition in Novi Sad. They outplayed United Kingdom 80-48 to win the seventh place at U20 EuroBasket. UK ended as No.8 and of course both teams will compete in Division A again. Federica Tognalini (183-F-91) was better than the others in victory with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Laura Spreafico (182-F/G-91) had 12 pts and 6 boards, while Alessandra Tava (184-F/C-91) added 11 points. In UK, Temitope Fagbenle (191-F-92) collected 10 points and 8 rebounds. Katrin Chiemeka (170-G-91) also scored 10, while Kristie Sheils (170-G-91) stopped to 8 points. Quarters: 8-19, 14-16, 10-7, 16-18. Italy and UK failed in the Quarterfinals of this event. Italy lost against Serbia 55-60, while UK faced with 37-68 defeat against Russia.

United Kingdom: Temitope Fagbenle 10+8 boards, Katrin Chiemeka 10, Kristie Sheils 8
Italy: Federica Tognalini 17+10 boards, Laura Spreafico 12+6 boards, Alessandra Tava 11

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LATVIA - Women

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LITHUANIA - Women

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MEXICO - Women

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POLAND - Women

U20 Poland wins the Bronze in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News
U20 POLAND - U20 SERBIA 67-65

Poland won the Bronze at U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. They met the host of this event and handed them 67-65 loss in a game for third place. It was a very exciting meeting and everything was open until the very end. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) once again was the leading player in Poland with 16 points. Agnieszka Sniezek (176-G-91) followed her with 10 points and 7 rebounds, while Malgorzata Misiuk (184-F-91) added 9 pts and 10 boards. For the hosts, Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) shined with 18 points and 16 rebounds. Neda Nikolic (181-F/C-91) scored 13 points and Marina Markovic (181-G/F-91) added 11 pts, plus 10 boards. Poland made 19-17 lead in the first ten minutes and jumped to plus 10 until the halftime, 41-31. However, Sara Krnjic and her teammates replied with 13-23 after the breather and everything was open again. Poland went to last 30 seconds with 64-63 lead, but Ajdukovic made a lay-up for Serbia with 20 second remaining. Kuras answered with a lay-up for Poland and Serbia had a possession with 14 seconds to go. Marina Markovic tried to make it from behind the arc, but she missed and Poland grabbed the ball. Agnieszka Sniezek drew a foul and made one free throw for Poland with 2 second to go. There was not enough time for Serbia and Markovic tried from very difficult position and of course missed. Poland won the game and the Bronze in Novi Sad. Serbia stays without the medal.

Poland: Magdalena Zietara 16, Agnieszka Sniezek 10+7 boards, Malgorzata Misiuk 9+10 boards
Serbia: Sara Krnjic 18+16 boards, Neda Nikolic 13, Marina Markovic 11+10 boards

Lider Pruszkow add Karolina Stanek and Paulina Rozwadowska - by Eurobasket News
Lider Pruszkow strengthened their roster with addition of two players. They recruited Karolina Stanek (183-F/C-89) and Paulina Rozwadowska (190-F-89) for the next season.
Karolina Stanek played for Utex Row since 2007. The 22-year-old centre averaged 5.8 points and 3.1 rebounds per game in the previous season.
Paulina Rozwadowska also comes from Utex Row. The 22-year-old forward posted 1.8 points and 2.7 rebounds per game in PLKK last season. Previously Paulina Rozwadowska played for CCC Polkowice. She was the member of U20 Polish National Team.

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PORTUGAL - Women

U20 Sweden wins Division B in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
U20 SWEDEN - U20 PORTUGAL 64-55

Sweden is the winner of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Ohrid. They outplayed Portugal 64-55 in a game which ended just few minutes ago. Silver belongs to Portugal. It is very important to mention that both teams earned a promotion to Division A, where they will compete next year. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) stepped up for Sweden with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Frida Fogdemark (187-F-91) scored 11 points and Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91) added 8 points, plus 7 rebounds. In Portugal, Maria Joao Andrade (186-F/C-92) delivered 15 points. Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) had 12 points and 9 rebs, while Daniela Domingues (176-F/G-92) added 10 points and 6 rebs. Quarters: 14-14, 15-11, 16-13, 19-17. Sweden was the winner of Preliminary Group A with perfect 4-0 record. They eliminated Belgium and Greece in the Quarterfinals and Semis.

Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 21+5 boards, Frida Fogdemark 11, Cleopatra Forsman-Goga 8+7 boards
Portugal: Maria Joao Andrade 15, Michelle Brandao 12+9 boards, Daniela Domingues 10+6 boards

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PUERTO RICO - Women

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ROMANIA - Women

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RUSSIA - Women

Russia U19 wins Cavalese tournament - by Eurobasket News
Russia U19 wins Cavalese tournament in a great preparation tour with 3 teams. At first Russia won over the Italy U19 71:52 and then had a thriller with Slovenia U19.
Both teams nailed 15 points in the opening period, while Russia added 12-10 in the second frame. The third period continued to be tough as the teams again scored the same number of points. After 13-13 in it, Russia entered the final stanza with 2-point advantage. Due to 24-23 in the last stanza Russia recorded the second win and won the tournament. For Slovenia Tjasa Gortnar (185-F-92) scored 16 points and Nika Baric (169-G-92) added 12.
Both teams are preparing for U19 World Championship for Women. The tournament is scheduled for July 21 through 31 in Chile. Russia will play in Group B together with Argentina, USA and Japan. In Group D Slovenia will face Brazil, Taiwan and Spain.

U20 Spain wins the Gold in Novi Sad! - by Eurobasket News
U20 RUSSIA - U20 SPAIN 53-62

Spain is the winner of U20 EuroBasket in Novi Sad. They dethroned defending champion Russia 62-53 in the Big Final. Same teams met in the 2010 Finals as well, but Russia celebrated in that meeting. Queralt Casas (180-G-92) was a key player in Spain with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Leonor Rodriguez Manso (181-G-91) had 9 points and 5 rebounds, while Vega Gimeno Martinez helped with 8 points. In the loosing squad, Anastasiya Shilova (185-F/G-91) shined with double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds. Alexandra Tarasova (194-C-91) (6 rebs), Evgeniya Finogentova (174-G-91) and Yana Panevina (168-G-91) scored 6 points each. Spain opened this game with quick 4-10 lead and managed to keep plus 6 for rest of the first quarter, 10-16. They jumped to plus 10 at the halfway of the second period and Yana Panevina cut the margin to 21-29 at the HT. Russia shined after the breather making 14-5 run and it was their first lead in this meeting, which they were not able to keep for rest of the Q3. Spain made 40-42 with 10:00 to go. For the next seven minutes Spain exploded with 3-15 run and resolved question about the winner. They closed this meeting in style winning the Gold medal in Novi Sad. Silver belongs to Russia.

Russia: Anastasiya Shilova 18+11 boards, Alexandra Tarasova 6+6 boards, Evgeniya Finogentova 6, Yana Panevina 6
Spain: Queralt Casas 21+6 boards, Leonor Rodriguez Manso 9+5 boards, Vega Gimeno Martinez 8

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SERBIA - Women

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SLOVAKIA - Women

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SLOVENIA - Women

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SPAIN - Women

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SWEDEN - Women

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women

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UBA - Women

WUBA Standings

WUBA Standings

Northern Conference
1. Cinncinatti S.		0-0
2. Queen City G.		0-0
3. Seven Hills F.		0-0
4. Sharonville F.		0-0
Southern Conference
1. Atlanta A.		0-0
2. GIE Disciples		0-0
3. Metro A. Sparks		0-0
4. Southern G.		0-0
5. Tennessee D.		0-0

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UKRAINE - Women

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UNITED KINGDOM - Women

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USBA - Women

WUSBA Standings

WUSBA Standings

Appalachian Div.
1. Chattanooga R.		0-0
2. Knoxville R.		0-0
3. Nashville T.		0-0
4. W.Virginia C.		0-0
Atlantic Div.
1. Charleston C.		0-0
2. Jacksonville S.		0-0
3. Richmond C.		0-0
4. Savannah S.		0-0
Piedmont Div.
1. Augusta RR		0-0
2. Charlotte BW		0-0
3. Columbia B.		0-0
4. Wins.Salem C.		0-0
Southern Div.
1. Atlanta P.		0-0
2. Birmingham S.		0-0
3. Macon Storm		0-0
4. Montgomery S.		0-0

WUSBA annouces Season Ticket Extravaganza; promotion features teams and league sponsors - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga. (July 17, 2011) ---Final preparations and site location for the 2011 Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) inaugural season is complete. Opening day is scheduled for Saturday night August 27, 2011. The league will field 16 teams housed in 4 divisions. 'This is very exciting for us, we see us playing a significant role in the world of womens basketball, said WUSBA President and C.E.O, Duane Allen Jenkins. 'The United States is ready to support a second women's basketball league, now player's who did not find a spot on a WNBA team has a league in which they can continue their careers.

The league will play games in gymnasiums at colleges, universities and larger high schools. 'We have home arenas agreements finalized in each city; we kept the gymnasiums currently under contract and we added a few more. We will announce all locations and schedule to the public in the very near future. We will begin our season ticket promotions.'

'We will hire former NCAA star players and aspiring women coaches to lead our teams, we have a standing policy that will not only develop basketball players, but coaches as well.'

Each team will play a twenty six game schedule. The 2011 regular season will begin open tryouts on August 13, 2011. Selected players have already been invited to team camps. The regular campaign begins August 27, 2011. There is a mid season All Star Classic Game slated for the weekend of September 30, 2011. The Championship game is scheduled for November 13, 2011. Both the All Star game and the Championship game will be held in Macon, Georgia. All teams will participate in the playoffs. The league will conduct single game elimination championship tournament. The Coralee Hunter Memorial Championship Trophy will be awarded to the top team.

The league has partnership with churches, civic groups and charitable organizations in each individual team city. The WUSBA offers support to local Churchs, the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Feeding America and the USMC Toys for Tots. The league is also extending a very special invitation to children in foster care each city and children housed in juvenile detention centers. The league has authorized each team to conduct educational contest between clubs to select children to be official ball girls and boys. We'll invite all groups who help children to contact the league and well issue complimentary tickets to these groups to our home games. The selected children to be the ball kids will receive $25.00 apiece per game for their services,' said Jenkins.

The league has four divisions, the Atlantic, the Southern, the Piedmont and the Appalachian. The divisions make up the Southeastern Conference. 'Having a complete year to prepare, its full steam ahead,' said WUSBA Executive Vice President, Kenneth Green. This is a prime opportunity for us to activate the league. 'We now have an opportunity to properly prepare to present a quality product for the players, coaches and especially our fans. Our fans will have ample access to the coaches and players', said Green. An Open House, Job Fair and Individual tryouts for each team will be held on August 13, 2011 in each team city.

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

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

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

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

The leagues season ticket and game promotions packages will be available in July 20, 2011. The season ticket promotion is called the 2011 WUSBA Season Ticket Extravaganza; the promotion is available in each city. This season ticket promotion is a special event for the fans and is sponsored by the advertisers and sponsors of the WUSBA. The league made 2000 single season tickets available in each city for this promotion. 'This collaborated effort includes the WUSBA, the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., and many of the leagues partners, sponsors and advertisers,' said Jenkins.

The league has set the price of $105.00 per season ticket. Each season ticket comes with admission to all thirteen home games and seven free single game tickets; this also includes admittance to all home playoff games. As a bonus, fans receive priority seating, complimentary concessions, a free game day program and a 24-inch x 36-inch full color poster with the basketball team or the dance team. (The total number of admittance per season ticket is 28, which breaks down to $3.62 per admittance). 'We designed the WUSBA basketball games to be family friendly, our promotions, our entertainment and our prices will fit right into anyones budget,' said Jenkins

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

2011 WUSBA SEASON TICKET EXTRAVAGAZA

The prize list is as follows:

* Grand Prize: 2011 Honda Accord LX 4 door sedan
(one automobile will be given away in each WUSBA team city, 16 total league wide),

* 2nd Prize: Disney World Family Vacation Extravaganza
(Family of four, rt airfare on Air Tran Airlines, transfers to and from the airport, daily Disney World Park passes, meals and lodging at a Disney World theme park hotel included, two given away in each WUSBA team city, 32 total league wide),

* 3rd prize: The Seafarer Cruise Extravaganza
( Trip for two to Miami, Florida, round trip airfare on Air Tran Airlines, one day cruise to Nausea, Bahamas aboard Discovery Cruises, two day stay at an InterContinental Hotel, one day car rental from Enterprise, dinner for two at Outback Steak House and breakfast for two at International House of Pancakes, two given away in each WUSBA team city, 32 total league wide.)

* 4th Prize: The Schwinn Bicycle Explosion
(Six mens, six womens, six boys and six girls ten speed bicycles, 24 given away at each WUSBA team city, 384 total league wide)

* 5th Prize: The Outback Steak House Family Feast
(A $60.00 gift card, 25 given away in each WUSBA team city, 400 total league wide)

*6th Prize: The Great Kroger Fuel Giveaway
(A $40.00 gas gift card, 25 given away in each WUSBA city, 400 total league wide)

* 7th Prize: Russell Athletic Team Polo Shirts
(25 shirts will be given away in each WUSBA team city, 400 total league wide)

The Grand prize drawing for this promotion will be held at halftime of the teams home season opener, the drawings for the other prizes will be held at a special pre-game show. 'As far as we know, this is the biggest and most extravagant season ticket promotion in the history of minor league sports,' said Jenkins. Fans will be able to visit our website shortly. According to Jenkins, the new website is now under construction and should be available in the very near future. We plan to begin our first season with a bang. All of our games will be geared toward top notched basketball competition, family fun and entertainment surrounded in a faith based environment, our goal is to offer each community a great experience proclaimed, Mr. Jenkins.

2011 WUSBA Season Ticket Extravaganza Rules and Disclaimer:

Purchase of a season ticket to any 2011 USBA team necessary to be included in the raffle drawing. The WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc. is the sponsor of this promotion. This promotion is open to all residents of Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida, Virginia, West Virginia, and North Carolina, who purchase a season ticket during this promotion. This promotion ends August 27, 2011 at 12:00 noon Eastern Daylight Time. WUSBA employees, family member of WUSBA employees, team members, Season Ticket Extravaganza sponsors, their employees and their families are ineligible to participate in this promotion. Participants must be at least 18 years old to participate in this promotion. One entry in raffle per season ticket purchased. No other restrictions apply. No substitution of prizes. Prizes are not refundable or transferable. Prize winners are responsible for all taxes and /or gratuity associated with prizes won in this promotion. Odds of winning any prize in this promotion will be determined in direct relation of the number of season tickets sold during this promotion. (Example: 2000 season tickets sold per WUSBA team season, Grand Prize winning odds are 2000 to 1, 2nd prize winning odds are 1000 to 1, 3rd Prize winning odds are 1000 to 1, 4th Prize winning odds are 100 to 1, each, 5th prize winning odds are 50 to 1, 6th Prize winning odds are 50 to 1). The WUSBA has set aside a minimum of 2000 season tickets per WUSBA team city to be sold, a total 32,000 league wide. Odds of winning a prize in this promotion are derived on a per city basis only. If the same individual purchases two season tickets for the 2011 basketball season and before noon on August 27, 2011 the odds will increase to give the ticket holder double the chance of winning a prize. This promotion is a WUSBA Youth Outreach sponsored event. The WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., is a 501 (c) (3) not for Profit Company. Single ticket purchases are not included in this promotion. 2nd and 3rd Prizewinners must make travel reservation through the WUSBA. Travel blackout periods may effect certain travel dates. Grand prizewinners will have a choice of color. There is no time limit for any of the travel prizes, gift card or any other prize in this promotion. Promotion is void where prohibited by law

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WNBA - Women

WNBA teams struggle to find quality coaches - by Eurobasket News
The WNBA is celebrating its 15th birthday, and one of the biggest promotions planned is selecting the top 15 players in the league's history.

Let's face it, picking the top 15 coaches in the league's history would be much more of a challenge.

With notable exceptions - Van Chancellor, Brian Agler, Mike Thibault, Corey Gaines, Michael Cooper, Dan Hughes, Bill Laimbeer, Anne Donovan and Lin Dunn - the WNBA has always struggled finding quality coaches.

Remember Muggsy Bogues, Dave Cowens , Michael Adams , Dee Brown , T.R. Dunn , Jessie Kenlaw , Steve Key, Frank Layden, Rick Mahorn and Tree Rollins (agency: Prossin Sports Management )?

Didn't think so.

The reasons for this are numerous. The prime coaches in women's basketball are the college coaches. They are paid well, revered in their communities and are provided with strong assistants.

If there was money or fame to be made in the WNBA, you might see occasional college coaching stars in the prime of their careers give it a try. But there isn't.

The laugh track begins when people talk about Geno Auriemma, Sherri Coale or Pat Summitt leaving their schools for the WNBA. Never in a million years.

So coaches such as Nolan Richardson are hired as experiments in marketing. And they are doomed to fail. Richardson, a pretty good college men's coach at Arkansas and Tulsa for many years, seemed burned out and failed miserably in Tulsa. He 'resigned' after winning just seven of 37 games in one-plus seasons after the franchise moved from Detroit.

His personnel moves were questionable. His roster was subpar. His teams never played with continuity.

Laimbeer to Richardson? Disastrous.

One of Richardson's first big moves was in 2010, when he traded the seventh pick in the draft and a second-rounder in 2011 to the Connecticut Sun for Amber Holt and Chante Black.

Holt, as was the case in Connecticut, is always hurt. The Sun turned the seventh pick into Danielle McCray. And Black is out this season with an injury. Richardson did a few good things, drafting Australian Liz Cambage and Stanford's Kayla Pedersen. But the '40 Minutes Of Hell' strategy he often spoke of, in terms of what it would be like to play his team, never materialized.

When Richardson resigned, the Shock led the league in turnovers (18.1) and poor shooting percentage (39.9) and were being defeated by an average of 17.1 points. He was replaced by Teresa Edwards, who was immediately blown out by Phoenix in her debut.

Strangely, Edwards is connected with the league's other coaching casualty this season: Jen Gillom of the Los Angeles Sparks, who was fired last week after a 4-6 start, a five-game losing streak and suspicions she had alienated some veterans. Gillom has also been the coach of the Minnesota Lynx, and they struggled under her, as well.

It has been reported that Edwards wanted to hire Gillom, her former Olympic teammate, as an assistant but was advised against it. Gillom must now wait to see what her fate is on Auriemma's USA Basketball coaching staff.

Gillom was one of Auriemma's three assistants for the U.S. team that won the 2010 world championship, but all positions are now open again. It seems unlikely Gillom will be asked to return.

Meanwhile, the Sparks hired assistant coach Joe Bryant, Kobe's father, to replace Gillom. This is Bryant's second try as coach of the Sparks. He became coach in 2005 and led the Sparks to a 25-9 record and a conference finals berth in 2006. He was replaced by Michael Cooper in 2007.

Adams Best Rookie?

The selection of Maya Moore as a Western Conference All-Star starter, expected because of her immense popularity, was probably a bit premature. Moore might not even be the most impactful rookie in her conference, let alone the league.

Danielle Adams has been remarkable in San Antonio. Adams, the All-American who helped lead Texas A&M to the national championship last season, is one of the big reasons the Silver Stars have regained their footing.

Adams scored 15 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter Thursday to help San Antonio defeat defending champion Seattle, 69-66. Another rookie, Danielle Robinson, made two free throws to clinch the win.

Adams came into the weekend averaging 16.4 points, tops among rookies, and is shooting almost 40 percent on three-pointers.

Courtesy of www.courant.com

The WNBA gives hope to female athletes everywhere - by Eurobasket News
Fifteen years ago, when the NBA Board of Governors approved the creation of a women's basketball league, reaction was mixed. The excitement of another professional league available for female athletes was tempered by the small-mindedness that has often dogged the group.

Guess what? A WNBA whose motto has morphed from 'We Got Next' to 'We Got Game' should try on 'We Got Longevity' for size. Women's basketball is alive and well, thank you very much, and those who think that NBA owners should cut ties with the league to help ease financial woes during the lockout can take a long crossover dribble down a short plank.

For all the WNBA taketh - and make no mistake, the league has had its struggles - it giveth so much more. Young female athletes need to know their hard work can translate to career opportunities. They also need to know there are ways to land on a sports magazine cover without sporting a bikini.

'I think young girls playing sports in Phoenix, regardless of what they play, need to have something like this to look up to,' said Robert Sarver, managing partner of the Suns and Mercury.

Sarver's comments go deeper than words. He deserves a lot of credit for maintaining ownership of the Mercury despite losses of approximately $15 million since taking over in 2004.

Not all share his commitment. Until 2003, all WNBA teams shared owners with NBA teams and counted on them for financial support.

Now, only five teams fall under that umbrella.

'I do it because I believe in the product,' he said. 'It's fun to watch. It's not the high-wire act of men's basketball but it's really quality basketball.'

The Mercury have demonstrated that this season. They've won 10 of their past 11 games and sit atop the Western Conference with a high-powered offense and an unappreciated defense. Diana Taurasi is a legitimate superstar, gifted on the court and charismatic off it.

'The whole team is competitive,' Sarver said, 'but Diana and Penny (Taylor) have a level of competitiveness equal to anything I've seen in the NBA. It's all about winning and they definitely have my respect.'

Mercury executives should have your respect, too. Some of the most important figures in the women's game fill their offices, starting with President and General Manager Ann Meyers Drysdale, one of the sport's best who has made a successful transition to team executive.

Don't forget Rick Welts, president and CEO of the Suns. In 1995, Welts, then an NBA executive, along with league attorney Val Ackerman, were directed by Commissioner David Stern to study the feasibility of creating a women's basketball league. It came during a strong run by the U.S. women's team, which capped its roll by winning gold at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

The WNBA's affiliation with the NBA early on was huge. It was able to capitalize on the recognition of the NBA, something the now-defunct American Basketball League, which preceded the WNBA by a year, didn't have. Also valuable were commitments from three networks: NBC, ESPN and Lifetime.

Its growth has not come without struggles. Poor television ratings, up-and-down attendance and far too many snarky comments have haunted the league at times.

The outlook is improving.

Attendance has grown each of the past four years. The renewal rate for season tickets is at an all-time high.

'My goal is that in X number of years into my tenure that we're not talking about 'Is the league viable?' ' Laurel Richie, who was named the WNBA's third president in April, told The Republic. 'We're talking about the game. We're talking about the players. We're talking about the rivalries. We're talking about whether we're going to expand or not.'

The WNBA is beginning to understand the business of sports better. In 2009, the Mercury sold the naming rights on their uniforms to LifeLock Inc., an identity-theft-services company. The lucrative deal was the first of its kind in the league. Since then, four other teams have followed suit.

The WNBA will continue to have its ups and downs, just like other leagues did in their infancy. But it's clearly a product that deserves to endure. Needs to endure.

Just ask any group of young girls who dream of a career in basketball.

Courtesy of www.azcentral.com

McCoughtry scores 24 to lead Dream over Sky 76-68 - by Eurobasket News
Dream coach Marynell Meadors was tired of waiting for her team to play their best game of the season. Finally, she got her wish.

Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) scored 24 points, Lindsey Harding added 14 and the Atlanta Dream snapped a two-game losing streak with a 76-68 victory over the Chicago Sky on Saturday night. Armintie Price (5'9''-G-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Mississippi) had 13 points and a season-high 10 assists.

'We had a valuable contribution from a lot of people since we were down to nine players,' Meadors said. 'It was a great team win.'

Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) finished with 20 points, 11 rebounds and eight blocks for the Sky (7-8), who have lost five straight on the road. Cathrine Kraayeveld (6'4''-F-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Oregon) had 11 points, Michelle Snow added 11 points and 12 rebounds, and Epiphanny Prince also scored 11.

Chicago missed 11 of its first 12 shots, but overcame a 15-point first-quarter deficit by going on a 40-17 run that ended with Kraayeveld's 3-pointer to give the Sky a 42-35 lead with 7:56 left in the third.

However, Courtney Paris' layup put Atlanta (4-9) ahead 56-54 in the opening minute of the fourth quarter and the Dream never trailed again.

'We lacked focus, lacked concentration and gave up our opportunities,' Fowles said. 'We weren't getting back in transition. We know Atlanta is a transition team, and they run on offense and have high pass action. They were doing and utilizing all the things we weren't doing.'

McCoughtry, whose steal and ensuing layup with 6:56 left put Atlanta up 62-56, ended a four-game stretch in which she scored no more than 17 points. She averaged 21.1 last year in helping the Dream win the Eastern Conference, but started the season slowly with an injured knee.

'We have been going at such a rapid pace that she hasn't been able to catch up,' Meadors said. 'She is focusing on what we have to do, since we have our back to the wall. We have been trying to get her to play tonight like she did. She was in total control, which was very good to see.'

In the second half, McCoughtry had 16 points, four steals and four rebounds.

'We needed this,' McCoughtry said. 'We have got to keep our confidence up and continue to play hard. If we keep the confidence, I know we can continue to do this. From this point, we just need to work on our chemistry and play together.'

Atlanta had lost four of five and is now 3-5 at home despite playing a ninth straight game without Sancho Lyttle, who didn't dress because of a sore back.

Lyttle averaged 12.5 points and 7.8 rebounds last year, but she's played in only four games this season after spending a month playing for Spain's national team and returning with an aching back July 3.

There were five lead changes entering the fourth, but the Sky never led after McCoughtry's 15-footer forced a 54-54 tie in the opening seconds of the final period.

'I think we really stayed together,' Price said. 'When we made runs, we didn't get too high or too low, so we kept our composure. We put ourselves in a good position to win the game.'

The Dream outscored Chicago 42-22 in the paint, thanks in part to Erika de Souza's 12 points. De Souza and Alison Bales each pulled down eight rebounds.

Chicago coach Pokey Chatman was proud her team fought back from the big deficit, but credited Atlanta with controlling the fourth quarter.

'They made layups a variety of ways tonight,' Chatman said. 'And their prime players stepped up and hit shots.'

Courtesy of http://washingtonexaminer.com

Storm fall to Lynx, 69-62 - by Eurobasket News
Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) scored 19 points and the Minnesota Lynx took over the game with a 22-2 run and, then held on to beat the Seattle Storm 69-62 on Saturday night.

Rebekkah Brunson (6'3''-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) added 16 points for Minnesota (9-4), while Lindsay Whalen (5'8''-G-82, college: Minnesota) scored 13, including four big free throws down the stretch.

Tanisha Wright (5'11''-G-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Penn St.) scored 18 points to lead short-handed Seattle (7-6), while Swin Cash (6'2''-F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Connecticut) had 16 and Sue Bird added 15.

Bird hit consecutive 3s to put Seattle ahead 24-23 with 6:23 to play in the first half, but Augustus followed with a pair of jumpers that started a 12-2 Minnesota run to close out the half.

The Lynx then scored the first 10 points of the third quarter and threatened to pull away until Seattle mounted a late rally.

The Storm were playing without three-time MVP Lauren Jackson, who is recovering from hip surgery, and Camille Little missed the game for personal reasons. But the Lynx appeared a step slow after playing in the highest-scoring regulation game in league history on Wednesday, then winning at Indiana on Friday night.

The Storm recovered from the big Minnesota run and cut the lead to six on a three-point play by Wright with 2:39 to play that made the score 63-57. The Storm had a chance to cut the lead even further, but Moore stripped the ball from Bird on a fastbreak, Whalen hit two free throws and Minnesota led by eight with 36.1 seconds to go.

After another defensive stop by the Lynx, Whalen converted two more free throws to secure Minnesota's second straight win.

Courtesy of www.q13fox.com

Standings

WNBA Standings

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