EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/20/2011

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Men News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Radnicki Kragujevac grabs Miljan Pavkovic - by Eurobasket News
Miljan Pavkovic (178-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Radnicki Kragujevac. The Serbian outfit announced this very important signing today. Pavkovic heads to Radnicki from Hemofarm, where he spent last four years. He appeared 12 times in EuroCup last season averaging 10.6 points, 2.3 rebounds and 4.1 assists. He also added 8.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 5.2 apg in Adriatic league. In Serbia, Pavkovic collected 10.8 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 5.9 apg. Eurobasket awarded him with Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Domestic Player of the Year -11. He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League 2nd Team -11. Before Hemofarm, Miljan Pavkovic played for Buducnost Podgorica. In the past, he also played for Vojvodina and Zdravlje.

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  ARGENTINA   


Gimnasia CR officially announce Cedric McGowan - by Eurobasket News
Gimnasia de Comodoro Rivadavia signed a deal with Cedric McGowan (198-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati). The 26-year-old forward started the previous season in Sayago in Uruguayan LUB. He tallied 24.7 points, 9.7 boards, 2.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game. In January Cedric McGowan moved to Halcones Xalapa in Mexico. His stats read 10.5 points, 5.4 boards and 1.3 assists per game in LNBP. In February Cedric McGowan moved to Guaros de Lara in Venezuela. The forward posted 17.3 points, 5.4 boards and 1.4 assists per game in LPB. Cedric McGowan also had stints in Colombia, Netherlands and Finland.



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  AUSTRALIA   


Standings - ABA
ABA Standings
Big V
 1. Eltham W. 14-4 
 2. Waverley F. 13-5 
 3. Sherbrooke S. 12-7 
 4. Ringwood H. 10-9 
 5. Bulleen B. 10-9 
 6. Hume City 6-12 
 7. Melbourne 5-14 
 8. Diamond V.E. 4-14 
Central ABL
 1. Norwood F. 11-3 
 2. Forestville E. 11-4 
 3. W.Adelaide B. 10-5 
 4. Sturt S. 9-6 
 5. N.Adelaide R. 9-6 
 6. S.Adelaide P. 7-8 
 7. Woodville W. 7-8 
 8. C.District L. 4-10 
 9. Eastern M. 4-11 
 10. South.Tigers 2-13 
QBL
 1. Townsville H. 12-3 
 2. Mackay M. 12-3 
 3. Gold Coast R. 11-3 
 4. Brisbane C. 10-5 
 5. Rockhampton 9-4 
 6. Northside W. 9-5 
 7. Cairns M. 9-6 
 8. Bundaberg B. 7-7 
 9. Ipswich F. 7-7 
 10. Gladstone P. 5-9 
 11. Toowoomba 2-10 
 12. Maroochydore 2-11 
 13. SW Metro P. 2-12 
 14. Caboolture S. 2-13 
SEABL-East
 1. Bendigo B. 17-2 
 2. Knox R. 14-5 
 3. Kilsyth C. 10-10 
 4. Ballarat M. 10-10 
 5. Dandenong 9-10 
 6. Canberra G. 7-11 
 7. Brisbane S. 7-13 
SEABL-South
 1. Nunawading S. 17-4 
 2. Geelong S. 12-6 
 3. Sandringham S. 11-10 
 4. Hobart C. 9-12 
 5. Frankston B. 8-11 
 6. Mt Gambier 8-12 
 7. NW Tasmania 5-15 
 8. Albury W.B. 3-17 
WARATAH
 1. Sydney C. 15-4 
 2. Newcastle H. 15-5 
 3. Illawarra H. 11-8 
 4. Manly Warr. 11-8 
 5. Hills H. 11-9 
 6. Norths Bears 11-9 
 7. Sutherland S. 10-9 
 8. Bankstown B. 10-11 
 9. Parramatta W. 9-8 
 10. Maitland M. 9-10 
 11. Hornsby S. 7-12 
 12. Cent.Coast C. 5-14 
 13. Canberra N. 1-18 


Boomers squad named - by Duncan Matheson
The Australian Boomers squad for their upcoming camp on the Gold Coast has been announced, with 10 members of last year's world championship team invited to the camp. The camp will be held from July 25-29 before the team heads to China to compete in the Stankovic Cup against Russia, Angola and China. It's the beginning of a busy schedule for the Boomers, who will return to the Gold Coast August 8-12 before heading to London for Olympic test games from August 16-21 and exhibition matches in Spain August 25 & 26 before heading home to prepare for the qualifying series against New Zealand.

Golden Star Boomers Gold Coast Training Camp Squad (25 29 July 2011)

David Barlow (205-F-83, college: Metro St.), CAI Zaragoza
Aron Baynes (208-C-86, college: Washington St.), EWE Baskets Oldenburg
Jason Cadee (186-G-91), Gold Coast Blaze
Peter Crawford (193-G-79), Townsville Crocodiles
Matthew Dellavedova (193-G-90) St. Mary's College of California
Anthony Drmic (196-F/G-92), Australian Institute of Sport
Adam Gibson (188-G-86), Gold Coast Blaze
Hugh Greenwood (190-G-92), Australian Institute of Sport
Igor Hadziomerovic (195-G-92), Australian Institute of Sport
Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports), Regal FC Barcelona
Daniel Kickert (208-C-83, college: St.Mary's, CA), PGE Turow Zgorzelec
Steven Markovic (190-G-85), Radnicki Kragujevac
Damian Martin (188-G-84, college: Loyola Marymount), Perth Wildcats
Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA), Portland Trail Blazers
Luke Nevill (218-C-86, college: Utah), Triumph Lyubertsy
Brad Newley (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket), Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius
Matt Nielsen (208-F/C-78, agency: Beo Basket), Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus
Andrew James Ogilvy (211-C-88, college: Vanderbilt), Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul
Luke Schenscher (216-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech), Townsville Crocodiles
Nate Tomlinson (190-G-89), University of Colorado
Cameron Tragardh (209-C/F-83, college: ORU), Melbourne Tigers
Jesse Wagstaff (203-F-86, college: Metro St.), Perth Wildcats
Stephen Weigh (198-G/F-87), Adelaide 36ers
Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.), Gold Coast Blaze





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  AUSTRIA   


U20: Serbia edge Austria in Classification Round - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U20 - Austria U20 83:64

Serbia recorded the second straight win at the U20 European Championship Classification Round. They shot down Austria to climb at 2-0 record in Group G. Austria in the meantime fell at 1-1 record after the loss. Danilo Andjusic (197-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 16 points and 6 rebounds to lead Serbia in this one.
Serbia opened the game with five straight points and controlled the tempo in the starting frame. They recorded a 23:12 lead at the first intermission. Serbia kept in charge throughout the second quarter. They capped with a 7:0 run to take a 45:29 halftime lead. Serbia did not loosen the grasp in the third frame. They arrived at the final break up by 14 points 64:50. Serbia tipped off the fourth quarter with a 9:0 surge and never looked back en route to the victory. Branislav Djekic (207-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) tallied 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Nemanja Jaramaz (201-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points in the victory. Jozo Rados (203-C-93) responded with 13 points for Austria. Carlos Novas (197-F-92) and Thomas Klepeisz (187-G-91) finished with 10 points apiece in defeat.

Serbia U20: Danilo Andjusic 16, Branislav Djekic 14+10 boards, Nemanja Jaramaz 13
Austria U20: Jozo Rados 13, Carlos Novas 10, Thomas Klepeisz 10


Panthers aquire Paul Radakovics - by Stefan Prager
After signing Bernhard Weber and Kevin Payton the BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers announced that they've signed Paul Radakovics (191-G-88) from WBC Wels. The 22 year old point guard started his career in his hometown Oberwart. Due to limited playing time he decided to go to Wels last season. In 34 appearances for Wels Radakovics averaged 1.6 ppg along with 1.0 rpg in nearly 12 minutes per contest. Radakovics played in the Austrian U20 national team until 2008 and was Austrian runner up in 2007 as well in 2008.

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  BELARUS   


U20: Iceland won the game over winless Belarus - by Eurobasket News
Belarus U20-Iceland U20 84:97

Iceland won the game over winless Belarus to celebrate the initial victory at the U20 European Championship. They edged Belarus 97:84 to close group D of the campaign with the win.
Tomas Tomasson (190-G-91) brought 6:6 on the court and Valiantsin Ihnatchyk (192-G-91) made the same at 16:16. The teams stayed tough and together, while Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) closed the period at 25:25. The battle continued in the second frame and only late shot from Vitali Liutych gave his side 47:46 at the halftime. Belrus however failed in the third period and stayed out of the race. Iceland erupted with 32-17 as Aegir Steinarsson (182-G-91) scored for 78:62. Iceland led the game to the win and finished the group on the fourth place.
Haukur Palsson (198-F-92) stepped up with 33 points to lead the charge. Aegir Steinarsson nailed 25, while Tomas Tomasson scored 18. Vitali Liutych ended up with 23 points for Belarus that finished with 0-4 record. Valiantsin Ihnatchyk notched 13 and Viktar Ausepian (205-F-91) posted 10.

Belarus U20: Vitali Liutych 23, Valiantsin Ihnatchyk 13, Viktar Ausepian 10
Iceland U20: Haukur Palsson 33, Aegir Steinarsson 25, Tomas Tomasson 18


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  BOSNIA   


U20: Bosnia and Herzegovina got the last ticket from Group G to make it to the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Bosnia and Herzegovina U20-Israel U20 60:57

Bosnia and Herzegovina got the last ticket from Group G to make it to the Qualifying Round of the European Championship. The hosts needed 60:57 over Israel to take their spot in the next round. Israel dropped to 2-2 record on the third place.
It was the real battle in the court as both teams needed the win in order to advance. Bosnia took 19:13 after the first period, but Timor tied the game at 24:24. Sztarkman later tied the game at 27:27 sending the teams to the lockers. It was hot also in the second half and 14-14 after the third period showed 41:41. Jeremiah Kreisberg (206-C/F-92) gave Israel 51:48 lead, while Ranko Ivic (193-G-92) delivered for Bosnia at 56:51. His last two free throws became the last in the game as the hosts together with 500 fans started to celebrate the victory.
Nikola Gajic (195-G-91) and Ranko Ivic chipped in 12 points each, while Miralem Halilovic (206-F-91) netted 10. Jeremiah Kreisberg replied with 16 points in defeat and Tom Havkin (202-F-91, agency: Avi Zilberman) scored 13.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U20: Nikola Gajic 12, Ranko Ivic 12, Miralem Halilovic 10
Israel U20: Jeremiah Kreisberg 16, Tom Havkin 13


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  BRAZIL   


Gaston Luchino and Emiliano Martina return to Argentina - by Paulo Freire
After a quick period playing in Brazil for the Sao Jose/Ceap basketball team in the last Super Cup Brazil, Gaston Luchino (184-G-82) and Emiliano Martina (201-C/F-83) are returning to Club 9 de Julio Rio Tercero from Argentina for the 2011/2012 season.

They both already played for the Patriota team in the pass. therefore, the argentinean team of head coach Esteban De La Fuente will be composed by Diego Gerbaudo, Gastn Torre, Gastn Luchino, Martn Melo, Emiliano Martina y Pablo Orlietti. They will be joined by foreigners Delonte Holland, Keith Gayden and Vernon Goodridge.

The Sao Jose/Ceap basketball team was the fourth best team in the Super Cup Brazil this season, they are working there way to be in the near future the first team of North Brazil in the NBB. This will need some work special in a new gymnasium with a capacity of 3,000 people and a floor renovated.





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  CANADA   


World Military Championship: USA cruise past Canada - by Eurobasket News
USA - Canada 103:45

The United States earned the third straight win at the World Military Championship. They overcame Canada to stay perfect in Group A. Paul Nelson (6'10''-C-88, college: Yale) and Matt Holland (6'6''-F) scored 22 points each to pace the USA.
The USA stunned Canada in the opening frame. They went on a 31:7 run to build a comfortable advantage. The United States rallied to a 57:19 lead at halftime. Canada struggled in every facet of the game. The USA piled up a 76:30 lead with one quarter remaining. Canada never recovered allowing their opponents to cruise to the victory. Matt McCraw (6'2''-G) contributed 15 points and 6 boards, while Jammar Major had 13 points for the USA. Bradley Krajcik (6'4''-G-84) answered with 15 points for Canada. Andrew Rupf (6'7''-C/F-76) netted 10 points in defeat.

USA: Paul Nelson 22, Matt Holland 22, Matt McCraw 15
Canada: Bradley Krajcik 15, Andrew Rupf 10


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  CHINA   


NBL Round 13: Leader ShenYang loses to Hangzhou - by Eurobasket News
The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with defeat of the leader and favorites losing the games.

Top ranked ShenYang (9-4) recorded its fourth loss on the court of tenth ranked Hangzhou on Tuesday night. Visitors were edged by Hangzhou 111-109. The game without a history. Hangzhou led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. 28 personal fouls committed by ShenYang helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Dante Milligan (206-84, college: Massachusetts, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) fired a double-double by scoring 25 points, 21 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. His fellow American import forward Austen Powers (203-87, college: Seattle, agency: Tank Sports) chipped in 24 points and 11 rebounds. American forward DeAngelo Collins (206-82, college: High School) produced a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!), 19 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 blocks for lost side. Hangzhou maintains tenth place with 3-10 record. ShenYang lost third consecutive game. They still keep top position with four games lost. They share it with Whampoa. Hangzhou are looking forward to face higher ranked Heilongjiang (#9) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. ShenYang will play against Sichuan (#5) and is hoping to win this game.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Whampoa (9-4) against fifth ranked Sichuan (7-6) on Tuesday night. Visiting Whampoa was defeated by Sichuan in 94-84. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Whampoa. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard T.J. Bannister (180-84, college: Liberty, agency: Warren Sports International) who helped to win the game recording 32 points and 7 assists (made all of his thirteen free throws !!!). contributed with 17 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Sichuan's coach Joseph Stiebing allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Alan Wiggins (206-85, college: USF) answered with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds for Whampoa. Sichuan moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Jiangsu and Guangzhou FM. Whampoa at the other side still keeps top position with four games lost. They share it with ShenYang. Sichuan will play against league's leader ShenYang in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Whampoa will play against Ningxia Hanas and hopes to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game where host Hebei (#8) won against 4th placed Jiangsu 98-93 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Jiangsu. Terence Dials stepped up with a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds for the winners. At the losing side Justin Johnson responded with a double-double by scoring 23 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists. Jiangsu's coach WanJun Cui tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Hebei maintains eighth place with 5-8 record. Loser Jiangsu keeps the fourth position with six games lost. They share it with Sichuan and Guangzhou FM. Hebei will meet higher ranked Changan Group (#3) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jiangsu will play against Guangzhou FM and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in was also worth to mention about. Third ranked Changan Group (8-5) played at the court of 6th ranked Ningxia Hanas (6-7). Changan Group managed to secure a 6-point victory 99-93. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Ningxia Hanas. Nick Stallings nailed 34 points (!!!), 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 steals for the winning side. Changan Group have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain third place with 8-5 record behind leader ShenYang. Ningxia Hanas at the other side dropped to the seventh position with seven games lost. Changan Group's next round opponent will be Hebei (#8) which should be theoretically an easy game. Ningxia Hanas will play against the league's second-placed Whampoa.
Guangzhou FM (7-6) outscored 9th ranked Heilongjiang (4-9) 125-86 on Tuesday night. Sani Sakakini fired a double-double by scoring 26 points and 17 rebounds for the winners. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Guangzhou FM moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Sichuan and Jiangsu. Loser Heilongjiang keeps the ninth position with nine games lost. Guangzhou FM will face Jiangsu (#4) in the next round. Heilongjiang will play against Hangzhou (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.


Ningxia Hanas - Changan Group 93-99

The game in was also worth to mention about. Third ranked Changan Group (8-5) played at the court of 6th ranked Ningxia Hanas (6-7). Changan Group managed to secure a 6-point victory 99-93. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Ningxia Hanas. The guests were already 20 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 35-21 Ningxia Hanas' run in the last quarter cut the lead to 99-93 at the end of the game. Changan Group made 17-of-20 charity shots (85.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 23 Ningxia Hanas turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Ningxia Hanas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Nick Stallings (190-83, college: Centenary) nailed 34 points (!!!), 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 steals for the winning side and his fellow American import forward Jahmar Thorpe (198-84, college: Houston) accounted for 20 points and 8 rebounds. Stallings is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Changan Group players scored in double figures. Nigerian forward Ndudi Ebi (206-84, college: Arizona) came up with a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!) and 24 rebounds and forward Junjiang Dong (200-80) added 15 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Ningxia Hanas in the defeat. Changan Group have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain third place with 8-5 record behind leader ShenYang. Ningxia Hanas at the other side dropped to the seventh position with seven games lost. Changan Group's next round opponent will be Hebei (#8) which should be theoretically an easy game. Ningxia Hanas will play against the league's second-placed Whampoa.
Top scorers:
Changan Group: S.Nick 34+8reb+6ast, T.Jahmar 20+8reb+2ast, L.Peng 15+1reb+1ast, S.Lei 12+3reb, J.JunQi 9+4reb+1ast, R.XiaTi 4+5reb
Ningxia Hanas: E.Ndudi 33+24reb+2ast, D.Junjiang 15+6reb, Y.Kaifu 15+2reb+3ast, W.Wu 9+1ast, M.Yansong 7+1reb, W.Sze 6+2reb
gschID: 129371


Guangzhou FM - Heilongjiang 125-86

Guangzhou FM (7-6) outscored 9th ranked Heilongjiang (4-9) 125-86 on Tuesday night. The game was mostly controlled by Guangzhou FM. Heilongjiang was better in third quarter 24-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Guangzhou FM made 26-of-33 free shots (78.8 percent) during the game. Guangzhou FM outrebounded Heilongjiang 45-33 including a 33-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 52.0 percentage. Guangzhou FM looked well-organized offensively handing out 31 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Heilongjiang's players. Heilongjiang was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Palestinian center Sani Sakakini (204-88) fired a double-double by scoring 26 points and 17 rebounds for the winners. American guard Justin Gray (188-84, college: Wake Forest) chipped in 27 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Nigerian center Benson Egemonye (207-83, college: Niagara) produced a double-double by scoring 17 points and 19 rebounds and American guard Courtney Pigram (185-85, college: E.Tenn.St.) added 25 points respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Guangzhou FM moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Sichuan and Jiangsu. Loser Heilongjiang keeps the ninth position with nine games lost. Guangzhou FM will face Jiangsu (#4) in the next round. Heilongjiang will play against Hangzhou (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guangzhou FM: G.Justin 27+7reb+6ast, S.Sani 26+17reb+1ast, Y.Liang 16+1reb+1ast, L.Feng 12+4reb+1ast, S.TianGang 9+2reb+1ast, T.Ye 8+2reb
Heilongjiang: P.Courtney 25+3reb+2ast, E.Benson 17+19reb+1ast, L.Naiyuan 15+4reb, H.Mengxin 11+1reb+1ast, W.Nan 8+2reb, Y.Gang 4+1ast
gschID: 129372


Sichuan - Whampoa 94-84

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Whampoa (9-4) against fifth ranked Sichuan (7-6) on Tuesday night. Visiting Whampoa was defeated by Sichuan in 94-84. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Whampoa. It looked good early as Whampoa took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Sichuan had a 22-20 second period charge getting the lead and Whampoa was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 84-94. Sichuan dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Whampoa's 30. Whampoa was plagued by 31 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard T.J. Bannister (180-84, college: Liberty, agency: Warren Sports International) who helped to win the game recording 32 points and 7 assists (made all of his thirteen free throws !!!). contributed with 17 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Sichuan's coach Joseph Stiebing allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Alan Wiggins (206-85, college: USF) answered with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds and the other American import swingman Michael Joiner (200-81, college: Florida St.) added 15 points and 6 assists in the effort for Whampoa. Five Sichuan and four Whampoa players scored in double figures. Sichuan moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Jiangsu and Guangzhou FM. Whampoa at the other side still keeps top position with four games lost. They share it with ShenYang. Sichuan will play against league's leader ShenYang in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Whampoa will play against Ningxia Hanas and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Sichuan: B.T.J. 32+1reb+7ast, 17+7reb+1ast, S.TianNong 14+9reb, C.Ma 12+5reb+3ast, Y.Chen 10+3reb+1ast, Y.ZhaoLei 6+2reb+1ast
Whampoa: W.Alan 20+13reb+2ast, W.Jing 18+4reb+2ast, J.Michael 15+4reb+6ast, Y.Ning 12+2reb+2ast, L.Yao 6+3reb+2ast, Y.ZhiYong 6+2reb+1ast
gschID: 129369


Hangzhou - ShenYang 111-109

Top ranked ShenYang (9-4) recorded its fourth loss on the court of tenth ranked Hangzhou on Tuesday night. Visitors were edged by Hangzhou 111-109. The game without a history. Hangzhou led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. 28 personal fouls committed by ShenYang helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Dante Milligan (206-84, college: Massachusetts, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) fired a double-double by scoring 25 points, 21 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. His fellow American import forward Austen Powers (203-87, college: Seattle, agency: Tank Sports) chipped in a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds. American forward DeAngelo Collins (206-82, college: High School) produced a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!), 19 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 blocks and forward JunXiong Zhang (204-85) added 19 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. Four Hangzhou and five ShenYang players scored in double figures. Hangzhou maintains tenth place with 3-10 record. ShenYang lost third consecutive game. They still keep top position with four games lost. They share it with Whampoa. Hangzhou are looking forward to face higher ranked Heilongjiang (#9) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. ShenYang will play against Sichuan (#5) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Hangzhou: M.Dante 25+21reb+6ast, P.Austen 24+11reb, Y.Carrian 20+1reb+1ast, Z.Tian-bao 16+3reb+1ast, J.Jin 10+4reb, L.Wei 6+2reb
ShenYang: C.DeAngelo 36+19reb+5ast, Z.JunXiong 19+8reb, C.XiaoDong 19+2reb+1ast, A.Corey 14+6reb+1ast, D.ChengLong 11+6reb+4ast, Y.Peng 9+5reb
gschID: 129370


Hebei - Jiangsu 98-93

An interesting game where host Hebei (#8) won against 4th placed Jiangsu 98-93 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Jiangsu. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 98-93. Hebei shot 30 for 40 from the free-throw line, while Jiangsu only scored six points from the stripe. Hebei had a 31-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. American power forward Terence Dials (206-83, college: Ohio St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds for the winners and forward ZhenHu Zhang (195-88) chipped in 20 points and 5 rebounds. At the losing side American guard Justin Johnson (198-86, college: Iowa) responded with a double-double by scoring 23 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists and swingman YanQing Wang (194-87) scored 18 points (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Five Jiangsu players scored in double figures. Jiangsu's coach WanJun Cui tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Hebei maintains eighth place with 5-8 record. Loser Jiangsu keeps the fourth position with six games lost. They share it with Sichuan and Guangzhou FM. Hebei will meet higher ranked Changan Group (#3) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jiangsu will play against Guangzhou FM and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hebei: D.Terence 33+14reb+1ast, Z.ZhenHu 20+5reb+1ast, L.Yiding 11+3reb+2ast, C.Zhixin 11+1reb+1ast, Y.Tingyu 7+2reb, L.Christopher 7+10reb+1ast
Jiangsu: J.Justin 23+14reb+5ast, W.YanQing 18+2reb+1ast, Z.YanXi 12+5reb+1ast, F.Xin 10+6reb+3ast, L.Kenny 10+3reb, F.Hui 7+1reb+3ast
gschID: 129368




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


*****************************************************
  COLOMBIA   


SOUTHAMERICAN TOURNAMENT U-17 DAY 3 RESULTS - by Victor Garcia
Ecuador got its first victory and sent Paraguay to the bottom of the standings,
Ecuador 65
Paraguay 47

Brazil keep giving an impressive show, blasting Venezuela in its third game and now shares the top with Colombia.
Brazil 100 Demetrio Leonardo 22 pts, Artur Fernandez 13
Venezuela 47 Jesus Medina 12 pts.

Uruguay give the first surprise of the tournament defeating Argentina thanks to a great game of Luciano Parodi.
Uruguay 60 Luciano Parodi 25 pts.
Argentina 38

Colombia arrived to the first place in the standings leaded by the young pivot Tony Trocha, Trocha already among the top scorers and rebounders of the Tournament .
Colombia 66 Tony Trocha 32 pts.
Chile 61 Pablo Barraza 22 pts.


SOUTHAMERICAN TOURNAMENT U-17 DAY 2 RESULTS - by Victor Garcia
Venezuela got its first victory in the tournament defeating Paraguay wich gets its second defeat in a row,Luis Madera leaded the Patriot team.
Venezuela 68 Luis Madera 17 pts.
Paraguay 53

Brazil was too strong for Chile and handled the game easily to get its second victory in the tournament.
Brazil 74 Evandro Ramos 19 pts.
Chile 44

Argentina had a slow first half, but with a powerfull reaction in the second defeated Ecuador.
Argentina 63 Gabriel Deck 12 pts
Ecuador 49.

Colombia got a very important victory defeating the powerhouse Uruguay in a very close game, Colombia just reach a 2 points lead in the final 20 seconds of the game.
Colombia 43
Uruguay 41.


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


U20: Croatia prevail against Lithuania in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - Croatia U20 76:82

Lithuania lost their second straight game at the U20 European Championship Classification Round. They surrendered against Croatia to slip at 0-2 record in Group G. Croatia on the other hand celebrated the first win and improved at 1-1 record in the ladder. Domagoj Bubalo (214-C-91) stepped up with 25 points to pace the Croats.
Saulius Kulvietis (203-F-91) unloaded 12 points in the starting quarter but Croatia overcame this effort posting a 21:18 lead at the first break. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the second quarter. Finally Roko Rogic (185-G-92) hit a jumper to make it 44:43 for Croatia at halftime. The teams stayed close throughout the third frame. Staniulis scored six points late in the quarter to give the Baltic team a 67:62 lead with one period remaining. Dambrauskas stretched the gap to 7 points at the beginning of the fourth quarter. However Barac soon drained three triples in a row to put Croatia back on top. Domagoj Bubalo and Babic made it 77:73 for Croatia with under three minutes to go. Biruta and Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) cut the deficit but Domagoj Bubalo and Ivan Batur (203-G/F-91) accounted for five consecutive points and Croatia celebrated a crucial win at the end. Roko Rogic nailed 14 points, while Ivan Batur produced 13 points in the victory. Saulius Kulvietis replied with 17 points for Lithuania. Dovydas Redikas had 14 points and 7 assists in defeat.

Lithuania U20: Saulius Kulvietis 17, Dovydas Redikas 14
Croatia U20: Domagoj Bubalo 25, Roko Rogic 14, Ivan Batur 13


*****************************************************
  CYPRUS   


World Military Championship: South Korea open win count in Brazil - by Eurobasket News
South Korea - Cyprus 83:65

South Korea celebrated the first win at the World Military Championship in Brazil. The Asian team prevailed against Cyprus to climb at 1-2 record in Group A. Kim Yong-Hwan (195-F-84) scored 15 points to pace the winners. Cyprus fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
South Korea and Cyprus stayed close throughout the opening period. South Korea posted a 25:23 lead at the first break. The Asian team maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They ensured a 34:32 halftime advantage. The Korean team cleared off to an 8-point distance at the final break 54:46. South Korea tipped off the final quarter on a 15:3 run and never looked back en route to the victory. Gwang Jae Lee provided 14 points for South Korea. Hoon Han Ji added 11 points in the victory. Kyriakos Pantziaros (195-F-91) responded with 17 points for Cyprus. Christos Loizidis (204-C-91) posted 15 points, 6 boards and 3 assists in defeat.

South Korea: Kim Yong-Hwan 15, Gwang Jae Lee 14, Hoon Han Ji 11
Cyprus: Kyriakos Pantziaros 17, Christos Loizidis 15


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Standard Life GB U20 Men picked up their third consecutive victory, not enough to advance - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain U20-Czech Republic U20 85:74

Standard Life GB U20 Men picked up their third consecutive victory in the European Championship with an 85:74 win against Czech Republic. That was not however enough to advance to the Qualifying Round. The Czechs finished on top with 4-1 record despite the first loss in the tournament.
Great Britain needed the win more, but they also needed Portugal to lose their game in order to advance. Ryan Richards (212-C/F-91, agency: Interperformances) scored for 28:18 and Alasdair Fraser (201-F/C-92) closed the first half at 47:35. Czech Republic was far to give up and erupted with 19-8 for 54:55 after thirty minutes. Standard Life GB U20 Men however won the last stanza 30-20 and grabbed the third straight win.
Ryan Richards stepped up with 27 points and Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) notched 19. Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) scored 15, while Alasdair Fraser added 13. Michal Sotnar (190-PG-92) and Ondrej Balvin (215-C-92) responded with 12 points each in the losing case as the latter also grabbed 12 boards.

Great Britain U20: Ryan Richards 27, Devon Van Oostrum 19, Alex Marcotullio. 15, Alasdair Fraser 13
Czech Republic U20: Michal Sotnar 12, Ondrej Balvin 12+12 rebs


U18: Germany and Czech Republic play two friendlies - by Eurobasket News
Germany U18 and Czech Republic U18 played two friendlies against each other. In Game 1 Germany grabbed 78:77 victory despite the buzzer-beater from the Czechs in the last seconds. Germany opened the game with 20-14, but Czech Republic replied with 15-9 in the second frame. Germany won the third 25-20 and did not mind 24-28 in the last stanza. Stephan Haukohl stepped up with 19 points for the winners and Dennis Schroeder (184-G-93) netted 14. Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) ended up with 11, while Johannes Richter (203-F/C-93) and Sid-Marlon Theis had 6 each.
In Game 2 Germany celebrated 81:78 win. They started with 23-16 and added 25-23 in the second period. Czech Republic bounced back with 22-11 in the third quarter, but Germany won the game due to 22-17 in the last stanza. Bogdan Radosavljevic top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) notched 17.



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


Falcon bring in Christian Nielsen - by Eurobasket News
Falcon ensured the services of Christian Nielsen (201-F-86, college: Wagner) for the next season. The 25-year-old forward played for Horsholm since 2007. In 2009/10 season Christian Nielsen averaged 12.9 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game for the 79ers. The forward went overseas in 2007. He shortly studied and played for Wagner College basketball team.


*****************************************************
  D-LEAGUE   


DeShawn Sims heads to South Korea - by Eurobasket News
DeShawn Sims (6'8''-F-88, college: Michigan) will continue his career in South Korea. The NBA D-League Rookie of the Year penned a one-season deal with KBL champion KCC Egis. Sims heads to KCC Egis from the Maine Red Claws, where he finished last season. He joined them in November averaging 20.3 points, 7.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists. Sims ended as the fifth best scorer of the league. He was named Rookie of the Year and participated at the D-League All-Star Game. DeShawn Sims started last season in Greece. He played three games for PAOK Thessaloniki and after that left the club. Sims is a University of Michigan product, where he graduated last year. He had 16.8 ppg and 7.6 rpg for 32 games as a senior.

Marcus Landry signs in France - by Eurobasket News
BCM Gravelines improved its roster for the upcoming Turkish Airlines Euroleague Qualifying Round by inking versatile forward Marcus Landry (6'7''-F-85, college: Wisconsin) to a one-year deal, the club announced Tuesday. Landry arrives from Maratonistas de Coamo, where he averaged 11.9 points and 4.9 rebounds in 10 Puerto Rican League games this season. He started the 2010-11 season with Reno in the NBA Development League, averaging 17.6 points and 4.4 rebounds in 53 games and helped this team to reach the D-League semifinals before joining Coamo. Landry has also played for Boston and New York in the NBA, as well as for Maine in the D-League. Before that, he helped the University of Wisconsin to win the Big Ten Tournament in 2008.

Courtesy of Euroleague

*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Charlie Villanueva will likely play in the LNB - by Kerwin Abreu
Like many other NBA players before, Pistons forward Charlie Villanueva (209-F-84, college: Connecticut) says he will also contemplate the possibility of playing abroad. But with him, it will not be China or Europe.

Im actually leaning towards likely playing in Dominican Republic, my home country, Villanueva texted when asked about overseas options. If I play there in Dominican Republic, it wont be for the pay, but it will be for my people. They are passionate about the game of basketball.

One hundred percent, basketball is my passion. If the lockout continues, it wont stop me from doing what I love to do. Overseas is a possibility for sure.

Villanueva, the son of Dominican inmigrants, played for the National Team in 2009 and 2010, leading the squad in scoring both times. Although the country is deep in talent, the domestic league, which should come to an end in late September, features little star power. The money is very not good and playing conditions can be difficult.

I love my country but the conditions of the court yesterday were terrible, Villanueva tweeted last year while in the Dominican Republic. They had to put Coca-Cola on the floor so it (wouldnt) be as slippery.

for more: www.masterdeportes.com


*****************************************************
  ESTONIA   


Turkey U16 triumps in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U16-Estonia U16 89:53

Turkey U16 triumphs in Kaunas at the International Tournament with 4 teams. The team won all three games including the last one over Estonia 89:53.
Turkey opened the game with 12-6 and grabbed easy 28:11 at the end of the first frame. The board showed 36-14 after 15 minutes of the game and 43:21 at the halftime. Turkey reached 53:34 after 35 minutes and winning the third period 24-15 grabbed 67:36 deficit. After 22-17 in the last quarter Turkey increased to the final result.
Mert Cevik and Okben Ulubay stepped up with 13 points each, while Emircan Kosut (209-C-95) and Ayberk Guleryuz (207-C/F-95) scored 12 apiece. Sander Kruus replied with 9 points in the losing case and Rain Koort (194-G/F-95) netted 8.

Turkey U16: Mert Cevik 13, Okben Ulubay 13, Emircan Kosut 12, Ayberk Guleryuz 12
Estonia U16: Sander Kruus 9, Rain Koort 8


*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


Valencia add Vitor Faverani - by Eurobasket News
Valencia bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Vitor Faverani (211-C-88). The deal is meant for two seasons with an option for an extra one. The Brazilian centre spent the previous season in Murcia. He tallied 14.9 points, 6.4 boards and 1.1 blocks per game in LEB Gold. Eurobasket.com named Vitor Faverani All-Spanish LEB Gold Centre of the Year. He was also trumped LEB Gold Import Player of the Year. Before joining Murcia Vitor Faverani had stints with Lupo/Araraquara and Unicaja Malaga.


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


ESL announces 2011 Chicago All Tournament Team - by Darryl Reshaw
Basketball Coaches, GM's and Agents,

The ESL acts as a scouting service for professional teams on an international basis.
Many European, South American, Asian, NBDL and other international coaches contact us regarding the top ESL players.
Our information regarding the ESL All tournament teams is in-depth and accurate.
Over 300 former ESL players are currently playing professional basketball due to talent level of the ESL and our strict registration criteria getting into the summer league.
In addition our scouting information is intended to give coaches player evaluation information based off of our experience in the international basketball market and to assist the ESL players and their agents in the placement process.
For additional information regarding the ESL players or contact information of their agents please contact marketing@eurobasket.com

ESL 2011 Chicago All Tournament Team:

CO-MVP: Andrew Fair (6'0''-G, college: St.Francis, IL):
Andrew Fair (6'0''-G, college: St.Francis, IL) is probably the best on ball defender the ESL has seen in its existence.
In a three day period Andrew averaged 10 steals per game and was partly responsible for his teams amazing come back in the ESL Championship game.
He is a NAIA All American who is a good scorer and makes great decisions wi6h the ball.
His offensive strength is driving and slashing to the basket.
He would be an excellent player in Switzerland, England or Sweden.

CO-MVP: Tyrone Kent (6'5''-G/F-86, college: Toledo):
Tyrone over the three day period averaged a lot of points and has a lot of offensive diversity to his game.
He is very athletic, he creates off the dribble and he is good shooter from the outside.
Tyrone has professional experience in Europe but needs the right coach and system to exploit his unique talents.
He is highly skilled and has the potential to play in the big leagues in Europe.

ESL 2011 Chicago All Tournament 1st Team:

Emmanuel Little (6'5''-F-85, college: N.Dakota):
He is no stranger to the ESL as his professional jobs in Japan and Mexico were a result of playing well in the ESL events in the past.
Emmanuel is a super athletic big guard who gets lots of hustle and transition points while running the floor.
He is an excellent ball handler who creates his scoring opportunities by penetrating the lanes.
He is an excellent defensive player and his mid-range jump shot is very good.
This kid can play in leagues like Germany and Belgium and be an all star very easily.
If Emmanuel could shoot 37% from the 3pt line he would be a NBA guard.

Julian Harris (5'10''-G-89, college: Menlo):
This NAIA All American from Menlo College was the show in Chicago and had our scouts screaming in their seats.
This left hand PG can really score the basketball and makes excellent decisions as he runs the team very well.
He plays great pressure defense and looks like he spends time in the weight room.
What separates Julian from the other PGs and the players in the ESL is that he shoots the ball like Steve Nash.
The kid is an outstanding pure shooter who will kills you in a pick and roll situation and he can create his own opportunities.
The kid will be great for entry level teams in Europe and will move up immediately.
He is the steal of the ESL for teams across Europe looking for a quality PG who can really score and play defense.

Marcel Anderson (5'9''-PG-86, college: Harris-Stowe St.):
The former CO-MVP of Chicago is probably the most talented PG the ESL has seen in three years.
Marcel is the fastest athlete you will see on a basketball court and gets the most dunks due to his crazy speed and athleticism.
He plays great defense and is unstoppable going to the basket. He scores and reminds us of Allen Iverson.
He was the Co-MVP of the ESL 2011 Las Vegas Event and has a heart of a champion.
He is great in transition and he an excellent on ball defender.
Like Iverson he will turn the ball over a little but once he matures and receives quality coaching then he becomes and Euroleague type of talent.
The kid has NBA skills but will have to start in an entry level league in Europe but the sky is his limit.

Mike McKinney (6'4''-G-85, college: N.Illinois):
Mike played extremely well in Chicago and was quietly the leader on his team.
He is a gifted scorer as a combo guard and has a strong athletic body.
Mike creates off the dribble well and he is a good shooter.
He has professional experience in Europe and should keep developing as a quality professional.

Brandon Watkins (6'0''-G-81, college: Penn St.):
Brandon is a pure professional PG with quality experience.
He runs a team very smoothly and has a high basketball IQ.
His dribble penetration and pull up jump shot is the feature of his offensive game.
When his team needs him he is like Chauncey Billups and will make the big shots.
Brandon deserves to be in the BBL in Germany especially after bringing a team up from the second league to the BBL already in his career.
This guy is a professional and can really play. I love his scoring and shooting ability.

Casey Love (6'9''-C-80, college: Robert Morris):
Casey is a terrific low post scorer with a thousand moves.
He has excellent footwork and a nice mid-range jump shot.
He is a good athlete and rebounds as well.
He can play in Europe in quality leagues for teams looking for a PF who can flat out score.

Obinna Agomo (6'3''-G-88, college: Greenville):
Obinna is the best African talent the ESL has scouted all summer and he has a Nigerian passport.
He is a big time prospect for teams looking for a Contonou player in Spain.
This guy is super athletic and plays above the rim.
He is a fierce competitor and plays very hard.
He can score, play defense and rebound with the best of them.
The ESL promotion will help him land in Europe as a Contonou player.
Teams, agent and coaches who read this article .........this kid can play.

Octreyvius Roebuck (6'7''-F):
This guy puts up big numbers by just being on the court.
He is the type of player who does everything well but you may not really notice him until you pick up the statistics.
In Chicago he had an excellent tournament as he did it all and was a double double guy.
He slashes to the basket, runs the floor and is a Shawn Marion type of a player.
He is a great athlete and a big time rebounder.
This kid is great for small markets in Europe to get started.

ESL 2011 Chicago All Tournament 2nd Team:

Curtis Staples (6'3''-G-76, college: Virginia)
Curtis had the best dunk in the ESL Chicago event and is a big time explosive athlete.
If he is on the court dont blink because he is a highlight waiting to happen.
This next level athlete can score, rebound and take the ball to the basket and jump over defenders.
He would be great in markets like Sweden, Finland and Norway.
He is a high energy player with lots of upside with experience.

Marcus Jackson (6'5''-G/F-81, college: Benedictine):
Marcus is a highly skills wing man that has an old school game.
He is a big time scorer in the mid-range area and plays very hard.
He is a great rebounder and competes on every possession.
Marcus plays in the IBL and his experience played off in the ESL.
He would do extremely well in Europe in the entry level markets to begin his career.

Darryl Garrett (6'4''-G-85, college: Schoolcraft CC):
This guy is a smooth operator on the basketball court.
He is athletic and very creative with the basketball.
He is very good perimeter player but has skills to get to the basket.
He is a very talented player who had a quality tourney in Chicago and can play overseas.

Senario Hillman (6'1''-PG-88, college: Alabama):
Senario was the best player at the Attack Athetics in day one by far.
This former SEC players is a serious talent that has all the tools for a combo guard.
He has great size, athleticism, creativity and can shoot the basketball.
Being left handed is also a big weapon for him.
He will have a great career overseas but has to be consisted every day.

Marvin Walker (6'3''-G-89):
He is the 2010-11 ABA Rookie of the Year.
He looked impressive in Chicago as he displayed a nice all around game.
He is quick, athletic and plays great defense.
He can score in a variety of ways and has great upside.
The scouts were impressed by him in Chicago.

Stanley Thomas (6'5''-G/F-80):
Stan is the man and is a very crafty scorer who can play at a good level in Europe.
This left handed assassin creates well off the dribble and will finish to the basket or a nice mid-range jump shot.
If his team needed a bucket then Stan would hit big shots consistently.
He has played in the NBDL and the PBL and is ready to take his skills to Europe.

Mitchell Carter (6'10''-C, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee):
Mitchell was the best big guy in the ESL Chicago event and showed some serious skills.
The thing that confused the scouts in Chicago was his limited playing time in College.
We figured his college coach must like small ball because this guy can really.
Once the right people see him he will have a nice career overseas.
He has great post moves, a good jump hook and will dunk on you.
He has a nice jump shot and rebounds well.
His outlet passes are great and fundamentally he is great.

Aaron Hall (6'2''-G, college: C.W. Post)
Aaron is a deceptive athlete with a strong and rugged body.
He seems like a football player in the first impression.
However he drives the ball to the basket very well.
He also has a nice jump shot and is a good all around player.

Mike Hart:
This player reminded me of a poor mans version of Dwight Howard.
Mike has been in the weight room and he jumps out the guy.
He gets a lot of dunks and shot blocks.
He has the most upside talent in the ESL due to his size, age and athleticism.
He is a great rebounder and a decent role scorer.


Gravelines add Marcus Landry - by Eurobasket News
Gravelines have agreed on terms of contract with Marcus Landry (201-F-85, college: Wisconsin). The deal is meant for one season. Marcus Landry has currently finished the season in Puerto Rico. He averaged 11.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game for Coamo. Marcus Landry started the season in D-League. The forward posted 17.6 points, 4.4 boards, 2.0 assists and 1.2 steals per game for the Reno Bighorns. He participated at 2011 D-League All-Star Game.


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


Results and Stats from Day 1 in Serravalle - by Eurobasket News
San Marino U18-Moldova U18 69:62

San Marino upset Moldova in Arena Domus of Serravalle in the start of the U18 European Championship. The hosts won 69:62 in the five-nation campaign.
Nistor and Moretti were the first players to score for each teams in the start of the game. Gualtieri gave the hosts 13:8 and Beloborodov closed the period at 17:12. San Marino started to increase the lead in the second frame and after 26-16 had 43:28. Ostafiiciuc started the third period from the free throw line and reduced to 13 points. Beloborodov closed the third period at 50:45 and Marcenco reduced to 53:51 but that was all Moldova could do. San Marino won the fourth frame 19-17 to seal the victory.
Gualtieri paced all the winners with 25 points for the first victory. Andrea Merlini (189-F/C-93) and Davide Macina (178-G-93) nailed 12 points each, while Guerra scored 10. Solopa replied with 16 points in the losing effort, Marcenco scored 13, while Ostafiiciuc collected 12 points and 15 rebounds.

San Marino U18: Gualtieri 25, Andrea Merlini 12, Davide Macina 12, Guerra 10
Moldova U18: Solopa 16, Marcenco 13, Ostafiiciuc 12+15 rebs



Gibraltar U18-Wales U18 29:95

Wales wins U18 European Championship opener in San Marino. The team smashed Gibraltar 95:29 to open 5-teams campaign.
Wales opened the game with 9-0 run and of course never looked behind. Sawyer scored the first points for Gibraltar and Andrews closed the first frame at 23:4. In the second period Wales erupted with 36-6 in the next 10 minutes and reached massive 59:10 at the halftime. Rothwell and Seaman opened the third period for the winners and Levy closed the 12-0 run at 70:10. Lloyd was the last the third period at 78:14. For Gibraltar the last quarter was the most productive as they scored 15 points and got 17. Khan was the one to set up the final score in the game.
Lloyd poured in 15 points and Levy netted 11. Jennifer Ridgway and Rothwell followed them with 10 points each. Mansfield and Sawyer answered with 7 points apiece in the losing effort.

Gibraltar U18: Mansfield 7, Sawyer 7
Wales U18: Lloyd 15, Levy 11, Jennifer Ridgway 10, Rothwell 10


Div.C standings
Standings
1. San Marino.1-0
2. Wales1-0
3. Andorra0-0
4. Gibraltar0-1
5. Moldova0-1


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20   


Standings
Standings
Group E
1. Russia4-0
2. France4-0
3. Latvia2-2
4. Montenegro.2-2
5. Slovenia0-4
6. Sweden0-4
Group F
1. Spain4-0
2. Italy4-0
3. Germany2-2
4. Greece1-3
5. Turkey1-3
6. Ukraine0-4
Group Places 13-16
1. Serbia2-0
2. Austria1-1
3. Croatia1-1
4. Lithuania0-2


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Nikola MIROTIC
  MNT
  (209-F/C-91)
  Avg: 27.6
 1. Mirotic, ESP27.6 
 2. Dubljevic, MNT24.6 
 3. Nedovic, SRB17.8 
 4. Omic, SLO16.6 
 5. Aldemir, TUR16.2 
 6. Gentile, ITA16.0 
 7. Fournier, FRA15.8 
 8. Zubkov, RUS14.4 
 9. Muric, SLO13.8 
 10. Katsivelis, GRE13.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Furkan ALDEMIR
  (207-F-91)
  Avg: 13.2
 1. Aldemir, TUR13.2 
 2. Theis, GER10.4 
 3. Mirotic, ESP9.2 
 4. Dubljevic, MNT9.0 
 5. Meiers, LAT7.8 
 6. Melli, ITA7.8 
 7. Czerapowicz, SWE7.6 
 8. Todorovic, MNT7.6 
 9. Rados, AUT7.6 
 10. Muric, SLO7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Josep FRANCH
  (194-PG-91)
  Avg: 5
 1. Franch, ESP5.0 
 2. Dukanovic, MNT4.8 
 3. Redikas, LTU4.6 
 4. Lebedintsev, UKR4.4 
 5. Span, SLO4.0 
 6. Prepelic, SLO3.8 
 7. Peciukeviciu., LTU3.8 
 8. Nedovic, SRB3.3 
 9. Koksal, TUR3.2 
 10. Klepeisz, AUT3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Evan FOURNIER
  (200-G/F-92)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Fournier, FRA2.2 
 2. Person, SWE2.0 
 3. Ivanovic, MNT1.8 
 4. Andjusic, SRB1.8 
 5. Moraschini, ITA1.8 
 6. De Nicolao, ITA1.6 
 7. Strebkov, RUS1.6 
 8. Polonara, ITA1.6 
 9. Babic, CRO1.6 
 10. Nedovic, SRB1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Artem PUSTOVYI
  (216-C-92)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Pustovyi, UKR2.2 
 2. Meiers, LAT2.2 
 3. Aldemir, TUR2.2 
 4. Gobert, FRA1.8 
 5. Polonara, ITA1.8 
 6. Georgakis, GRE1.7 
 7. Chrysikopoul., GRE1.6 
 8. Theis, GER1.4 
 9. Todorovic, MNT1.4 
 10. Melli, ITA1.4 


Qualifying Round Day 2 in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Group E
Latvia - Slovenia 89-84
Latvia celebrated the first win at the Qualifying Round of U20 European Championship. They prevailed against Slovenia to improve at 2-2 record in Group E. Slovenia fell at 0-4 record. Mareks Mejeris (207-F-91, agency: Players Group) provided 20 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge. Mareks Mareks Mejeris notched 7 points in the opening frame as Latvia posted a 21:13 lead at the first break. Latvia cleared off to a 7-point distance in the second term. Butjankovs opened a double-digit lead late in the first half 41:31. Latvia ensured a 44:37 halftime advantage. But Slovenia quickly erased the deficit and soon Klemen Prepelic (191-G-92) pulled his team in front. Slovenia entered the final frame up by five points 68:63. Mareks Mejeris triggered a 16:0 run that put Latvia on top 85:73. Slovenia made a fierce comeback effort cutting the deficit at 3 points 82:85. Lejasmeiers and Antrops hit four free throws in the dying seconds to seal the winning outcome for Latvia. Martins Meiers (206-C-91) notched 18 points and 9 rebounds for Latvia. Ugis Pinete (194-F-91) added 17 points, 5 boards and 5 assists in the victory. Klemen Prepelic answered with 17 points for Slovenia. Alen Omic (213-C-92) answered with 16 points in the loss.

Russia - Sweden 67-65
Russia posted the second straight win at the U20 European Championship Qualifying Round. They overcame Sweden to climb at 4-0 record in Group E. Sweden slipped at 0-4 record in the ladder. Russia went on a 10:0 run midway through the opening quarter to post a 23:10 lead. They ensured a 26:18 lead at the first break. Sweden erased the deficit in the second quarter. The Scandinavian side tied things up at 30. Soon Czerapowicz, Nordstrom and Andreas Person (190-G-91) put Sweden in front. But Ruslan Tumanov (190-G-91) capped the first half with a three-pointer as Russia regained advantage 39:38. Russia went on a 12:0 run at the start of the third quarter to boost the margin to 13 points 51:38. Russia entered the fourth frame up by 10 points 58:48. Lindqvist nailed 8 points in a row at the beginning of the fourth quarter to cut the deficit. Andrey Zubkov (205-G/F-91) and Tkachenko maintained the advantage for Russia however Viktor Gaddefors (200-F-92) put Sweden as close as two points 65:67 with 8 seconds remaining. Pavel Antipov commited a turnover giving Sweden a chance to save the game. But Czerapowicz missed a jumper and Russia had a narrow escape at the end. Andrey Zubkov delivered 13 points, while Ruslan Tumanov added 12 points in the victory. Viktor Gaddefors answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds for Sweden. Andreas Person netted 12 points in defeat.

Montenegro - France 49-58
France continued their unbeaten run at the U20 European Championship. They overcame Montenegro tonight to improve at 4-0 record in Qualifying Round Group E. Romain Hillotte (195-G-91) scored 12 points to lead the effort. Montenegro fell at 2-2 record after the loss. France got to a flying start as they enjoyed an 8:2 lead midway through the first frame. Montenegro got closer but Romain Hillotte capped the period with a three-pointer as France grabbed a 16:10 advantage. Les Bleus maintained the lead throughout the low-scoring second period. France arrived at halftime up by three points 22:19. Montenegro tried hard but could not erase the deficit in the third quarter. They faced a 6-point deficit heading into the fourth frame 32:38. Romain Hillotte, Yeguete and Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) opened a double-digit lead for France in the final period. Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Halil Kanacevic (203-F-91) dragged the Balkan team within 6 points but it was as close as Montenegro could get. France stayed calm in the dying minutes and registered a well-deserved win at the end. Leo Westermann nailed 11 points, while Joffrey Lauvergne (210-F-91) accounted for 9 points in the victory. Bojan Dubljevic had 17 points and 7 rebounds for Montenegro. Halil Kanacevic finished with 10 points in defeat.

Group F
Ukraine - Turkey 61-64
Turkey enjoyed the first win at the Qualifying Round of U20 European Championship. They eked out a tough victory over Ukraine to climb at 1-3 record in Group F. Sertac Sanli (212-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 18 points to lead the effort. Ukraine suffered the second straight loss in the group action and fell at 0-4 record. Turkey opened the game with six points in a row but Ukraine turned things around pretty quickly and arrived at the first break up by 6 points 21:15. Ukraine stayed in charge throughout the second frame. Furkan Aldemir (207-F-91) and Sertac Sanli managed to get Turkey within one point 35:36 at halftime. Ukraine opened the second half on a 7:0 run and rallied to a 51:44 advantage at the final intermission. Turkey got within two points following a 5:0 spurt at the start of the fourth quarter. Ukraine boosted the margin back to 8 points with under five minutes remaining. Can Mutaf (193-G-91) and Sertac Sanli drained back-to-back three-pointers and Koksal followed with a layup as Turkey denied the deficit 59:59. Furkan Aldemir put Turkey in front 60:59 with under three minutes to go. Lebedintsev answered with a jumper but Sertac Sanli connected from the arc to secure a 63:61 lead for Turkey. Sertac Sanli followed several misses from Ukrainian players with a free throw and Turkey clinched the victory. Furkan Aldemir netted 16 points and pulled down 7 rebounds, while Can Mutaf had 14 points in the win. Maksym Sandul (207-C-91) answered with 14 points and 12 boards for Ukraine. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) and Oleksandr Mishula (187-G-92) nailed 9 points each in defeat.

Spain - Germany 73-58
Spain registered the fifth straight win at the U20 European Championship. This time the hosts overcame Germany to improve at 4-0 record in Group F. Germany slipped at 2-2 record after the loss. Spain jumped in front from the first minutes and maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter. They posted a 17:12 lead after ten minutes. Germany opened the second frame on an 8:2 rally to pull in front. Soon the visitors grabbed a 28:21 advantage. Germany arrived at the big break up by two points 30:28. The lead changed hands for several times early in the third period but Spain then went on an 11:1 surge to build a 51:42 advantage. Germany got within three points early in the final quarter but Josep Franch (194-PG-91) and Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) quickly silenced the opponents as Spain cruised to the victory at the end. Nikola Mirotic tallied 22 points and 12 boards for Spain. Josep Franch added 14 points in the win. Daniel Theis (207-C-92) answered with 11 points for Germany. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F/G-92) netted 10 points in defeat.

Greece - Italy 59-64
Alessandro Gentile (198-G/F-92) scored 23 points to pace Italy to the fourth straight win at the U20 European Championship. Italy held off Greece to take 4-0 record in Group F. Greece fell at 1-3 record after the loss. It was a really close battle in the opening quarter. The teams exchanged baskets before Greece were able to eke out an 18:16 lead into the second term. Italy opened the second term with a 6:0 run to surge ahead. The Azzurri led for some time before Greece capped the half on a 6:0 run to ensure a 32:30 advantage. Alessandro Gentile nailed nine points in a row midway through the third quarter to put the Azzurri in front 49:41. Italy arrived at the final break up by 9 points 55:46. Greece cut the deficit to just three points but Alessandro Gentile followed with four straight points to keep Italy in front. Andrea De Nicolao (185-G-91) sealed the victory with four consecutive points late in regulation. Achille Polonara (202-F-91) accounted for 14 points and 6 boards for Italy. Andrea De Nicolao netted 8 points in the winning effort. Dimitrios Katsivelis (194-G-91) answered with 12 points for Greece. Manolis Koukoulas (211-C-91) provided 10 points in the losing effort.

Group G
Austria - Serbia 64-83
Serbia recorded the second straight win at the U20 European Championship Classification Round. They shot down Austria to climb at 2-0 record in Group G. Austria in the meantime fell at 1-1 record after the loss. Danilo Andjusic (197-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 16 points and 6 rebounds to lead Serbia in this one. Serbia opened the game with five straight points and controlled the tempo in the starting frame. They recorded a 23:12 lead at the first intermission. Serbia kept in charge throughout the second quarter. They capped with a 7:0 run to take a 45:29 halftime lead. Serbia did not loosen the grasp in the third frame. They arrived at the final break up by 14 points 64:50. Serbia tipped off the fourth quarter with a 9:0 surge and never looked back en route to the victory. Branislav Djekic tallied 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Nemanja Jaramaz (201-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points in the victory. Jozo Rados (203-C-93) responded with 13 points for Austria. Carlos Novas (197-F-92) and Thomas Klepeisz (187-G-91) finished with 10 points apiece in defeat.

Lithuania - Croatia 76-82
Lithuania lost their second straight game at the U20 European Championship Classification Round. They surrendered against Croatia to slip at 0-2 record in Group G. Croatia on the other hand celebrated the first win and improved at 1-1 record in the ladder. Domagoj Bubalo (214-C-91) stepped up with 25 points to pace the Croats. Saulius Kulvietis (203-F-91) unloaded 12 points in the starting quarter but Croatia overcame this effort posting a 21:18 lead at the first break. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the second quarter. Finally Roko Rogic (185-G-92) hit a jumper to make it 44:43 for Croatia at halftime. The teams stayed close throughout the third frame. Staniulis scored six points late in the quarter to give the Baltic team a 67:62 lead with one period remaining. Dambrauskas stretched the gap to 7 points at the beginning of the fourth quarter. However Barac soon drained three triples in a row to put Croatia back on top. Domagoj Bubalo and Babic made it 77:73 for Croatia with under three minutes to go. Biruta and Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) cut the deficit but Domagoj Bubalo and Ivan Batur (203-G/F-91) accounted for five consecutive points and Croatia celebrated a crucial win at the end. Roko Rogic nailed 14 points, while Ivan Batur produced 13 points in the victory. Saulius Kulvietis replied with 17 points for Lithuania. Dovydas Redikas had 14 points and 7 assists in defeat.



Preliminary Round comes to an end in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Group A
FYR Macedonia - Switzerland 73-56
F.Y.R. of Macedonia keep Switzerland winless in Sarajevo at the European Championship 2011. In the last game of Group A F.Y.R. of Macedonia won over Switzerland 73:56 for 2-3 record. The latter meanwhile suffered their fifth straight loss. Switzerland surprised the opponents with 14:11 in the opening period. They however totally were outscored in the second frame as F.Y.R. of Macedonia erupted with 27-10 for 38:24 advantage. Goran Markovski (193-G-92) nailed three for 47:30 and Apostoli Apostolov (183-G-91) scored two free throws for 53:39. When Apostoli Apostolov and Stojan Gjuroski (201-F-91) nailed threes in the start of the last quarter it became clear about the winner. F.Y.R. of Macedonia won the quarter 18-14 and reached 17-points advantage. Gajdadjiev stepped up with 24 points for the winners and Stojan Gjuroski nailed 13. Dubas replied with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Koludrovic posted 13 and Zivanovic scored 11.

Georgia - Romania 85-89 OT
Romania U20 surprised Georgia in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Division B. Romania won 89:85 to seal the fourth place in Group A with 3-2 record. Georgia won the group with 4-1 despite loss and will head to the Qualifying Round. Both teams nailed 19 points each, while Georgia won the second period 17-12. Ioseb Lezhava (185-PG-91) and Chirof closed the period at 36:31 as the teams went to the lockers. Telinoiu tied the game at 55:55 at the end of the third period, while the teams nailed another 21 points each in the last quarter. In overtime late baskets from Vlad Corpodean (197-F-91) and Milencovici brought the victory for Romania. Vlad Corpodean stepped up with 20 points for the winners and Chirof netted 19. Tibirna posted 17, while Telinoiu and Milencovici netted 12 each. Shengelia answered with 22 points and 11 rebounds, while Lomouri notched 18. Akaki Dvalishvili (206-C/F-90) collected 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Bakradze scored 11.

Estonia - Poland 66-75
Poland won the thriller over Estonia at the U20 European Championship. It was not however enough to advance to the Qualifying Round after 75:66 win. Fras made 16:6 in the middle of the first period, but Veideman reduced to 17:18. He also closed the first period at 18:22, while Fras later increased to 37:27. Poland won the second frame 23-16 as Michal Sokolowski (196-G-92) sent the teams to the lockers for 45:34. Although the Baltic team produced 15-13 in the third period, they managed to cut it to 58:49 after three quarters. Soo reduced to 65:61, but that was all. Michal Sokolowski and Sebastian Szymanski (186-G-91, agency: Promotex) scored the last points for the winners to win the third game. Sebastian Szymanski and Fras paced all the winners with 14 points each, while Szumelda-Krzycki and Michal Sokolowski scored 13 apiece. Puidet answered with 20 points in defeat and Veideman nailed 15.

Group B
Slovakia - Denmark 83-88
Denmark won Group D of the U20 European Championship. The team sent Slovak Republic out of the Qualifying Round after 88:83 win. Bergstedt and Thomas Laerke (194-G/F-91) combined for 55 points to lead the winners. Although Denmark won the opening tip and led in the majority of the first period, Grznar closed it at 20:20. In the second period Slovak Republic dominated the court and took 44:37 halftime advantage when Jaroslav Moravek (200-F/C-92) nailed three. Bukovic scored three for 52:46 and Jaroslav Moravek closed the third period at 64:59. Becarik brought his side 71:61 with 7 minutes to play, but Slovak Republic failed to win. Hertz reduced to 73:71 and Bak tied the game at 75:75. Denmark went on the final lead and saved 88:83 victory. Bergstedt erupted with 33 points and 19 rebounds, while Thomas Laerke collected 32 points and 10 boards. Grznar exploded with 35 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists in defeat, while Jaroslav Moravek netted 14.

Hungary - Bulgaria 80-84
Bulgaria grab the ticket to the Qualifying Round of the U20 European Championship. The team won over Hungary 84:80 to clinch the second place in Group B of the Division B. Hungary lost all four games of the group and will compete for the lower places. Bulgaria needed the win more than the opponents, while Hungary tried to win the initial game. Moravcsik scored for 21:13 and Janos Eilingsfeld (198-F/C-91, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) closed the first period at 25:16. Hungary continued to dominate the court in the second frame and Delity brought 39:29, while Tsonkov sent the teams to the lockers at 46:38. The second half however belonged to Bulgaria as they first toed the game at the end of the third period. Gospodinov made it 56:56 and his another two free throw gave his team 58:56 lead. Bulgaria added 26-24 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Darin Ivanov (184-PG-91) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Tsonkov netted 16. Gospodinov, Serbezov and Ilhan Arabadzhiev (198-F-91) delivered 10 points apiece. Janos Eilingsfeld ended up with 33 points in the losing effort and Delity as well as Kovacs had 10 apiece.

Group C
United Kingdom - Czech Republic 85-74
Standard Life GB U20 Men picked up their third consecutive victory in the European Championship with an 85:74 win against Czech Republic. That was not however enough to advance to the Qualifying Round. The Czechs finished on top with 4-1 record despite the first loss in the tournament. Great Britain needed the win more, but they also needed Portugal to lose their game in order to advance. Ryan Richards (212-C/F-91, agency: Interperformances) scored for 28:18 and Fraser closed the first half at 47:35. Czech Republic was far to give up and erupted with 19-8 for 54:55 after thirty minutes. Standard Life GB U20 Men however won the last stanza 30-20 and grabbed the third straight win. Ryan Richards stepped up with 27 points and Devon Van Oostrum notched 19. Marcotullio scored 15, while Fraser added 13. Michal Sotnar (190-PG-92) and Balvin responded with 12 points each in the losing case as the latter also grabbed 12 boards.

Norway - Portugal 69-77
Portugal advanced to the Qualifying Round in Sarajevo after the win over Norway in the last day of the Preliminary Round. Portugal needed 77:69 to finish second with 4-1 record. Norway clinched fifth place in the group with 1-4 record. After being tied at 4:4, Portugal went on a 9-0 run as Ferreirinho brought 13:4. Cardoso made both free throws at the end of the first period for 27:18 lead. Portugal added 22-17 in the second period for 49:35 at the halftime. Norway meanwhile won the third period 17-16 as Karamo Jawara (200-F-91) reduced to 52:63, but Azevedo and Queiroz made it 68:54. Norway made their last push to catch up and could cut it to 8 points at the end of the game. Sergio Santos paced all the winners with 18 points, while Cardoso, Sico and Ferreirinho notched 11 apiece. Karamo Jawara ended up with 16 points and 14 rebounds in defeat and Ndiaye posted 12.

Luxembourg - Finland 74-77 OT
Finland needed overtime to beat Luxembourg in Sarajevo to finish the Preliminary Round. The Finnish side clinched third place in the group after 77:74 victory. Luxembourg showed its best game so far, but finished on the bottom with 0-5 record. Finland won the first period 21-18 but could not stay in front at the halftime. Rodenbourg was the last to score in the half as he tied the score at 39:39. Moreover Luxembourg took the lead after 16-10 in the third frame, but Antto Nikkarinen (185-PG-91) and Rene Wolzfeld (190-F-91) closed the fourth period at 67:67. In overtime Finland needed 10-7 to win the last game of the Preliminary Round. Antto Nikkarinen and Lindbom poured in 14 points each as the latter also grabbed 18 rebounds. Heinonen followed them with 12 points in a win. Rene Wolzfeld replied with 24 points and 11 rebounds in the losing effort, whilst Wilson scored 17.

Group D
Bosnia - Israel 60-57
Bosnia and Herzegovina got the last ticket from Group G to make it to the Qualifying Round of the European Championship. The hosts needed 60:57 over Israel to take their spot in the next round. Israel dropped to 2-2 record on the third place. It was the real battle in the court as both teams needed the win in order to advance. Bosnia took 19:13 after the first period, but Timor tied the game at 24:24. Sztarkman later tied the game at 27:27 sending the teams to the lockers. It was hot also in the second half and 14-14 after the third period showed 41:41. Jeremiah Kreisberg (206-C/F-92) gave Israel 51:48 lead, while Ranko Ivic (193-G-92) delivered for Bosnia at 56:51. His last two free throws became the last in the game as the hosts together with 500 fans started to celebrate the victory. Gajic and Ranko Ivic chipped in 12 points each, while Halilovic netted 10. Jeremiah Kreisberg replied with 16 points in defeat and Havkin scored 13.

Belarus - Iceland 84-97
Iceland won the game over winless Belarus to celebrate the initial victory at the U20 European Championship. They edged Belarus 97:84 to close group D of the campaign with the win. Tomasson brought 6:6 on the court and Ihnatchyk made the same at 16:16. The teams stayed tough and together, while Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) closed the period at 25:25. The battle continued in the second frame and only late shot from Vitali Liutych gave his side 47:46 at the halftime. Belarus however failed in the third period and stayed out of the race. Iceland erupted with 32-17 as Aegir Steinarsson (182-G-91) scored for 78:62. Iceland led the game to the win and finished the group on the fourth place. Haukur Palsson (198-F-92) stepped up with 33 points to lead the charge. Aegir Steinarsson nailed 25, while Tomasson scored 18. Vitali Liutych ended up with 23 points for Belarus that finished with 0-4 record. Ihnatchyk notched 13 and Ausepian posted 10.



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  FRANCE   


Gravelines add Marcus Landry - by Eurobasket News
Gravelines have agreed on terms of contract with Marcus Landry (201-F-85, college: Wisconsin). The deal is meant for one season. Marcus Landry has currently finished the season in Puerto Rico. He averaged 11.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game for Coamo. Marcus Landry started the season in D-League. The forward posted 17.6 points, 4.4 boards, 2.0 assists and 1.2 steals per game for the Reno Bighorns. He participated at 2011 D-League All-Star Game.


U20: France topple Montenegro for another win in Spain - by Eurobasket News
France U20 - Montenegro U20 58:49

France continued their unbeaten run at the U20 European Championship. They overcame Montenegro tonight to improve at 4-0 record in Qualifying Round Group E. Romain Hillotte (195-G-91) scored 12 points to lead the effort. Montenegro fell at 2-2 record after the loss.
France got to a flying start as they enjoyed an 8:2 lead midway through the first frame. Montenegro got closer but Romain Hillotte capped the period with a three-pointer as France grabbed a 16:10 advantage. Les Bleus maintained the lead throughout the low-scoring second period. France arrived at halftime up by three points 22:19. Montenegro tried hard but could not erase the deficit in the third quarter. They faced a 6-point deficit heading into the fourth frame 32:38. Romain Hillotte, Yeguete and Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) opened a double-digit lead for France in the final period. Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Halil Kanacevic (203-F-91) dragged the Balkan team within 6 points but it was as close as Montenegro could get. France stayed calm in the dying minutes and registered a well-deserved win at the end. Leo Westermann nailed 11 points, while Joffrey Lauvergne (210-F-91) accounted for 9 points in the victory. Bojan Dubljevic had 17 points and 7 rebounds for Montenegro. Halil Kanacevic finished with 10 points in defeat.

France U20: Romain Hillotte 12, Leo Westermann 11, Joffrey Lauvergne 9
Montenegro U20: Bojan Dubljevic 17, Halil Kanacevic 10


Fos Ouest signs Sacha Giffa - by Eurobasket News
Sacha Giffa (197-G/F-77) is a new member of Fos Ouest. The French SG/SF penned a two-year deal today. He heads to Fos Ouest from Strasbourg IG, where he spent last six years. Giffa appeared 22 times for the club in ProA last season averaging 4.4 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.6 assists. In 2009/10, he had 5.6 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 1.9 apg for 30 games. Giffa also added 8.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 6 games in EuroCup that year. Before Strasbourg, Sacha Giffa was a member of Pau-Orthez. He also has experience from Broegan, Ionikos, ASVEL and Chalon. Giffa played for the French National Team in 2002, 2005, 2007 and 2008. For 8 games in Qualifications to European Championships 2009 he had 5.3 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 1.3 spg.

Denain brings in Moses Mubarak - by Eurobasket News
According to Catch-and-shoot, Moses Mubarak (192-G-86) will continue his career with Denain. Reportedly two sides penned a deal for the next season. Mubarak heads to Denain from the Scottish team Glasgow Rocks. He appeared 34 times for them in the National League averaging 11 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2 assists and 1.1 steals. From 2008 to 2010 Mubarak played for Chalons. In their second season together he had 10 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 1.1 bpg. In 2008/09, Mubarak collected 9.4 ppg and 1.7 rpg for 31 games. In the past, Moses Mubarak played for Angers and Pau-Orthez. He also was a member of the French U20 National Team in 2005. Denain will compete next season in NM1.

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  GERMANY   


U20: Spain pile up scalps in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Spain U20 - Germany U20 73:58

Spain registered the fifth straight win at the U20 European Championship. This time the hosts overcame Germany to improve at 4-0 record in Group F. Germany slipped at 2-2 record after the loss.
Spain jumped in front from the first minutes and maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter. They posted a 17:12 lead after ten minutes. Germany opened the second frame on an 8:2 rally to pull in front. Soon the visitors grabbed a 28:21 advantage. Germany arrived at the big break up by two points 30:28. The lead changed hands for several times early in the third period but Spain then went on an 11:1 surge to build a 51:42 advantage. Germany got within three points early in the final quarter but Josep Franch (194-PG-91) and Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) quickly silenced the opponents as Spain cruised to the victory at the end. Nikola Mirotic tallied 22 points and 12 boards for Spain. Josep Franch added 14 points in the win. Daniel Theis (207-C-92) answered with 11 points for Germany. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F/G-92) netted 10 points in defeat.

Spain U20: Nikola Mirotic 22+12 boards, Josep Franch 14, Joan Sastre Morro (201-F-91) 12
Germany U20: Daniel Theis 11, Mathis Monninghoff 10


U18: Germany and Czech Republic play two friendlies - by Eurobasket News
Germany U18 and Czech Republic U18 played two friendlies against each other. In Game 1 Germany grabbed 78:77 victory despite the buzzer-beater from the Czechs in the last seconds. Germany opened the game with 20-14, but Czech Republic replied with 15-9 in the second frame. Germany won the third 25-20 and did not mind 24-28 in the last stanza. Stephan Haukohl stepped up with 19 points for the winners and Dennis Schroeder (184-G-93) netted 14. Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) ended up with 11, while Johannes Richter (203-F/C-93) and Sid-Marlon Theis had 6 each.
In Game 2 Germany celebrated 81:78 win. They started with 23-16 and added 25-23 in the second period. Czech Republic bounced back with 22-11 in the third quarter, but Germany won the game due to 22-17 in the last stanza. Bogdan Radosavljevic top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) notched 17.



BG Karlsruhe Sign Martin Samarco - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Last season Martin Samarco (191-G-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Bowling Green) poured in 31 points including 6 three point bombs in a 112-89 trouncing by the Webmoebel Baskets Paderborn over BG Karlsruhe and that performance might have stuck in the heads of BG Karlsruhe management. Today BG Karlsruhe announced that Martin Samarco (191-G-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Bowling Green) wont be having any performances like that against them, but hopefully for them as he was signed to a contract. Samarco is a 25 year old 191cm shooting guard from Ypsilanti, Michigan.Last season he played for the Webmoebel Baskets Paderborn (Germany-ProA, starting five): 19 games: 16.9ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 83.0%. Samarco is a strong shooting guard with good athletic skills, who is very effective when he goes inside. BG Karlsruhe head coach is overjoyed about getting Martin Samarco (191-G-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Bowling Green). 'Martin is my absolute wish player. I am so happy that such a good PRO A player that can give us a different quality on offense and defense decided to come to Karlsruhe. I think he can become a strong duo with Rouven Roessler. He has a clean charachter. This played a big role, because we require a high charachter in a player. He has a fughting mentality and is a team player', stressed BG Karlsruhe head coach Tino Stumpf . Samarco started his basketball career in 2003 for Kirtland (NJCAA): 20.5ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.1apg, 1.0spg, FG: 44.0%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 75.4%. In 2004, he transfered to Schoolcraft (NJCAA): 22.1ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FG: 43.5%, 3PT: 46.7%, FT: 79.8%. From 2005-2007, he played for Bowling Green (NCAA). In his senior year, he played 31 games: 19.5ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 39.5%, 3Pts: 32.9%, FT: 77.0%. In 2007-2008, he played for Porvoon Tarmo (Finland-Korisliiga): 20.4ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 70.6%. In 2009,he played for the Holland Blast (IBL): 28.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 4.2apg, FG: 42.3%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 73.5%. In 2010, he playedanother season for the Holland Blast (IBL): 26.3ppg, 6.5rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FG: 43.1%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 77.2%. Awards/Achievements in his career have been All-MAC 2nd Team -06, All-MAC Honorable Mention -07, IBL Regular Season Easteren Conference Champion -09, and Eurobasket.com All-German 2. Bundesliga Pro A Honorable Mention -11

Source: BG Karlsruhe

Vaughn Duggins (Walter Tigers Tuebingen) Dashaun Wood Beat Me 9 Out Of 10 Times On One On One - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Vaughn Duggins (190-G-87, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Wright St.) (190-G-87, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Wright St.) is a 23 year old 190cm guard from Pendelton, Indiana that will be starting his professional basketball career in the Beko BBL with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen. He played at Wright State from 2006-2011 including his freshman year with 2011 Beko BBLMVP Dashaun Wood. In his senior season, the American played 33 games: 18.0ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 82.2%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have beenHorizon League Regular Season Runner-Up -07, 10, Horizon League Tournament Winner -07, Horizon League All-Newcomer Team -07, All-Horizon League 1st Team -08, 11, Horizon League Tournament Semifinals -09, Horizon League Tournament Finalist -10, All-Horizon League 2nd Team -10, Horizon League All-Defensive Team -10,and NABC Division I All-District 12 2nd Team -10, 11. He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball.

Congrats on getting your first professional contract with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen. How was your first process of getting a job coming out of college?

My first process of getting a job coming out of college has been great. I really just sat back and took it all in. My agents at Pro one Sports Management really worked hard for me and made the process as easy on me as possible.

What was the main reason for you to sign with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen? How did head coach Igor Perovic convince you to come?


The Walter Tigers are an up and coming team and I didn't need any convincing at all to come. It felt like it was the perfect situation and Coach Igor and I have a very similar value system that includes mental and physical toughness and hard work.

What do you know about the German league Beko BBL? I am sure that heard that your ex teammate Dashaun Wood dominated the league like no one else ever has?

I know a handful of players that play in the BBL and am aware that it is one of the best leagues in Europe. Dashaun is the best player I've ever played with and I am eager to get a chance to compete against him.

Your ex coach at Wright State Bill Donlon played in Germany in Giessen in 2001-2002. Did you speak to him before signing about getting a second opinion on the German league?

Coach Donlon has been a mentor to me since my junior year in high school. I value his opinion greatly and he told me that the BBL is a great league and said it was a 'no-brainer' to come and play in it.

You are a high scoring shooting guard. What is another strength in your game that doesnt always get noticed right away?

Another strength in my game that doesn't get noticed right away is probably my jumping ability. I've surprised a lot people when I get up to block a shot or dunk.

You are also a very aggressive defender. After what NBA player do you pride your defense work after?

I really respect a guy like Bruce Bowen who night in and night out guards the other NBA teams best player and loves it. Those are the kind of guys that make championships possible.

You still have some time left before you have to report to training camp in Tuebingen. What is the most important aspect of your game that you will work on in the gym in the next weeks?

My main focus before reporting to training camp in Tbingen is to get in the best shape possible. You can always be a better shooter or ball handler but things are a lot easier when your in better shape than your opponent.

The Walter Tigers Tuebingen are still forming the team, but signed three guys straight out of college with Tyrone Nash, Adnan Hodzic and yourself. This trio will be expected to take up a bulk of the scoring. Do you feel a lot of pressure coming in and having to perform right away?


There is always pressure to perform at a high level especially now that it is my job to do so. I am confident in my abilities and the abilities of my teammates so the pressure is just something that we will have to get accustomed to if we want to be successful.

Are you looking forward to duels with Ben Hansborough who will play at FC Munich this season. Did your path ever cross in the NCAA?

Of course, you always look forward to the opportunity to play against a player like that. Never got a chance to play him in college so it is even more special to play him as a pro.

What was your fondest memory at Wright State besides winning the Horizon League Tournament in 2007?


The fondest memory I have at Wright State is coming back from an 18 point deficit against Miami (OH). I dribbled the length of the court in 4 seconds and dished it to my teammate Todd Brown and he hit a 3 for the win.

Last season, it seemed like Dashaun Wood had 2-3 highlight in each game that would have made it to ESPN. What was the most amazing thing that you witnessed Dashaun Wood do in a practice that little people saw?

Every once in a while at practice I'd be walking by Dashaun and he would stop me and tell me exactly how he was going to score on his opponent that next possession and sure enough he would go out there and do that exact thing and look at me and laugh while running down the court.

Who won a one on one in practice back in 2006-2007, you or Dashaun Wood and where was the weak spot of Wood if any to beat him?

Thats easy! Dashaun beat me 9 out of 10 times on one on one. I was a young puppy out of high school and he was the horizon league player of the year. I don't remember him having any weaknesses other than he was smaller than me so I could post him up.

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

The best player I played against in the NCAA that's now in the NBA is probably Jeff Teague.

What is your opinion about Ron Artest changing his name to World Peace?

Ron Artest has always done his own thing without caring what anyone thinks and you have to respect him for that. He is a great player and considering what he's done positively for the NBA, he can do whatever he wants and people will support him.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD movie I saw was Hall Pass and it was hilarious. I highly recommend it for comedy lovers.

Thanks Vaughn for the chat.



Spanish ACB Feeling Reaches The EWE Baskets Oldenburg With Kenny Hasbrouck - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The EWE Baskets OIdenburg have found Kenny Hasbrouck (191-G-86, college: Siena) from the best European basketball league ACB and signed him to a one year deal. Hasbrouck is a 24 year old 191cm combo guard that was born in the nations capital Washington DC. He is a smooth, mature, creative off guard. Plays game with great confidence, composure and pace and is a tremendous all-around talent with great leadership qualities. He is a big game player. Last season, he played for : Miami Heat (NBA), only pre-season, in Dec.'10 moved to Meridiano Alicante (Spain-ACB, starting five): 20 games: 10.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 74.3%. EWE Baskets Oldenburg CEO Hermann Schuller is optimistic that the American will be able to adapt to the coaching style of Predrag krunic. 'I am more than convinced that he will be able to develop under Predrag Krunic and his coaching staff and become an important factor on the team', stressed Hermann Schuller. Hasbrouck started his basketball career at Siena (NCAA) in 2005 and played there until 2009. In his senior year, he played : 35 games: 14.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.8apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 40.7%, 3Pts: 34.8%, FT: 65.7%. In the summer before turning professional he got valuable experience taking part at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) and NBA Summer League in Las Vegas (Memphis Grizzlies). In 2009, he played his rookie season for Rio Grande Valley Vipers (D-League, starting five): 10 games: 16.9ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 80.6%, in Mar.'10 signed with Miami Heat (NBA). 'Kenny Hanbrouck is an athletic and strong shooter. He has a lot of worth, because he is versatile', stated Oldenburg Head coach Predrag Krunic Awards/Achievements in his career have been All-MAAC Rookie of the Year Award -06, All-MAAC Rookie Team -06, MAAC Tournament Finalist -07, MAAC All-Tournament Team -07, 08, 09, All-MAAC 2nd Team -07, NABC Division I All-District 2 Second Team -08, MAAC Regular Season Runner-Up -08, MAAC Tournament Winner -08, 09, All-MAAC 1st Team -08, 09, NABC Division I All-District 1 First Team -09, MAAC Regular Season Champion -09, MAAC Player of the Year -09, MAAC All-Tournament MVP -09, and AP NCAA All-America Honorable Mention -09

Source: EWE Baskets Oldenburg

TJ Carter Back In The Beko BBL With Phoenix Hagen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Phoenix Hagen got some needed help at the guard position with T.J. Carter (191-G-85, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: NC-Wilmington)He has two years of Beko BBL experience having played for the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf from 2008-2010. Carter is a 26 year old 191cm guard from Mechanicsville,Maryland that can also play the wing.Last season, he hardly played playing only one game for Proteas Danoi AEL (Cyprus-Division A), left in Nov.'10: 1 game: 13pts, 2reb, 1steal. Phoenix Hagen head coach Ingo Freyer is happy about the American joining the team. 'He was able to make a name in his 2 years in the Beko BBL. It is not easy for Phoenix Hagen to get players like that. He is a solid shooter, strong on the fast break and is athletic. I also like his defense and mental strength', stated Phoenix hagen head coach Ingo Fryer. Carter started his basketball career in 2003 with NC-Wilmington (NCAA) where he played until 2008. In his senior season, he played 33 games: 15.8ppg, 5.5rpg, 4.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.9%, 3Pts: 26.4%, FT: 85.6%. In two seasons with duesseldorf, he played a total of 68 beko BBL games. In his last season in Duesseldorf, he played 34 games: 9.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 26.9%, FT: 74.7%. Awards/Achievements in his career have been CAA Regular Season Runner-Up -05, CAA Tournament Semifinals -05, 08, CAA Regular Season Champion -06
CAA Tournament Winner -06, CAA Tournament MVP -06, All-CAA 3rd Team -06, All-CAA 1st Team -08, and German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -09

Source: Phoenix Hagen

Hannover brings in Richie Williams - by Moritz Korff
Richie Williams (178-G-87, college: San Diego St.) has penned a deal with UBC Hannover to play for the Tigers in the upcoming Pro B season. Williams graduated from NCAA D1 program San Diego State in 2009 and took his game to Iceland in January 2010. He played eight games for FSU Selfoss in the Express League and averaged 27.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.8 steals per contest. Throughout the 2010-11 campaign the Spring Valley, California native represented ABA's San Diego Sol.

Guido Grunheid Goes To The Artland Dragons - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The Artland Dragons have brought in experienced Guido Grunheid (209-F/C-82) giving him a one year contract with an option for an additional year. Gruinheid is a 28 year old 209cm power forward/center from Jena. He is an in-betweener forward with the height (but not the size) of a 4 and the quickness (but not the ball handling and the shot) of a 3. A good rebounder and a hustler, He had played the last two years with the Mitteldeutscher BC and last season played 33 games: 7.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 58.9%, 3PT: 23.0%, FT: 44.7%. 'We are happy that Guido is coming to us. Last season we had with Johannes Strasser and Ali Seggelke two guys that got a lot of minutes on the wing. Now we have with Guido an inside player and Strasser a wing that will be a big advantage for us. Another advantage is that he can play both big man positions. He is more a position four guy, but his length also makes him be able to play the position five. I also informed myself by his ex team and only heard positive things', stressed Artland Dragons coach Stefan Koch .

Grunheid started his basketball career in 1999 with TuS Jena where he played until 2001. He then moved to Alba Berlin where he played from 2001-2005. He also had a license for TUS Lichterfelde. As a young player he already got needed international experience playing 6 Euroleague games and 7 ULEB Cup games. He then played for RheinEnergie Koln from 2005-2007 and returned back for athird season in 2008-2009. In the 2007-2008 season, he played for Hanzevast Capitals Groningen (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): ULEB Cup: 10 games: 12.3ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.4apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 61.5%, injured in March'08 and was off for 6 weeks; Dutch League: 33 games: 11.1ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.6apg, 3.2spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 62.6%.Awards/Achievements in his career have been German U18 National Team -00, Albert Schweitzer Junior Championships in Mannheim (Germany) -00, German National Team -00, 06-08, German Bundesliga Champion -01, 02, 03, 06, German U20 National Team -01, Global Games U18 in Dallas -01, German Bundesliga Cup Winner -02, German Bundesliga Cup Winner -03, 07, German A2 National Team -00, 03-06, 08, German University National Team -03, 05, World University Games -03, 05, German Bundesliga Regular Season Champion -05, German Bundesliga Semifinals -05, 07, FIBA EuroCup Quarterfinals -06, Eurobasket.com, All-German Bundesliga Most Improved Player of the Year -06,Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Domestic Players Team -06, 07, World Championships in Japan -06: 6 games: 2.0ppg, 2.2rpg, European Championships in Spain -07: 4 games: 1.0ppg, 2.8rpg, and Eurobasket.com Dutch Eredivisie All-Bosmans Team -08.

Source: Artland Dragons

Angel Garcia Is Loaned To The LTi Giessen 46ers - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The LTi Giessen 46ers announced today that they will get Angel Garcia (210-C/F-88, college: Memphis) also known as Piwi on loan from Spanish ACB team Unicaja Malagain.Garcia is a 23 year old 210cm power forward from Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rican young prospect is among the top centers of his age, he is a very fast center with silky moves in the paint whereas his rebounding abilities are great. He is a very hard-working player, who tries every time to make the right thing for his team; He is a team orientated player and can do many personal sacrifices for the sake of the team spirit. A player with great work ethic, who can do a lot of jobs in the court, he is athletic and can defend bigger and smaller opponents without having any problem. Last season garcia played for Unicaja Malaga (Spain-ACB): Euroleague: 1 game: 0pts, played mostly with CB Ins Oftamologico Clinicas Ricon (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five): 19 games: 14.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 82.9%. 'I have been observing Angel for some time and saw him play at the Treviso camp. He fought back from his injury at Memphis and played a good season in the second division in Spain. I am happy that we could get such a talented player. That also was only possible, because malaga trusts us and loans us him', stressed LTi Giessen 46er coach Bjoern Harmsen. Garcia started his basketball career in the States at Lake Forrest Academy High School, USA in 2005. he also got experience playing for Jayuya (Puerto Rico) and East Chicago high school. He then enrolled at Memphis (NCAA) from 2008-2010, but had injury problems. In 2009-2010, he was only able to play 12 games: 6.8ppg, 1.2rpg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 75.0%. Awards/Achievements in his career have been Global Games in Dallas -06, Puerto Rican U21 National Team -06, Puerto Rican U18 National Team -06, Puerto Rican U19 National Team -07
World Championships U19 in Novi Sad (Serbia) -07: 5 games: 13.8ppg, 7.8rpg, 2FGP: 54.2%, 3FGP: 40.9%, FT: 72.7%, Nike Hoop Summit (World Select Team) -08, Puerto Rican BSN All-Star Team -08, and Puerto Rican National Team -10.

Source: LTi Giessen 46ers

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  GIBRALTAR   


U18: Wales wins European Championship opener - by Eurobasket News
Gibraltar U18-Wales U18 29:95

Wales wins U18 European Championship opener in San Marino. The team smashed Gibraltar 95:29 to open 5-teams campaign.
Wales opened the game with 9-0 run and of course never looked behind. Sawyer scored the first points for Gibraltar and Andrews closed the first frame at 23:4. In the second period Wales erupted with 36-6 in the next 10 minutes and reached massive 59:10 at the halftime. Rothwell and Seaman opened the third period for the winners and Levy closed the 12-0 run at 70:10. Lloyd was the last the third period at 78:14. For Gibraltar the last quarter was the most productive as they scored 15 points and got 17. Khan was the one to set up the final score in the game.
Lloyd poured in 15 points and Levy netted 11. Jennifer Ridgway and Rothwell followed them with 10 points each. Mansfield and Sawyer answered with 7 points apiece in the losing effort.

Gibraltar U18: Mansfield 7, Sawyer 7
Wales U18: Lloyd 15, Levy 11, Jennifer Ridgway 10, Rothwell 10


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  GREECE   


U20: Alessandro Gentile steps up for Italy as they outlast Greece - by Eurobasket News
Italy U20 - Greece U20 64:59

Alessandro Gentile (198-G/F-92) scored 23 points to pace Italy to the fourth straight win at the U20 European Championship. Italy held off Greece to take 4-0 record in Group F. Greece fell at 1-3 record after the loss.
It was a really close battle in the opening quarter. The teams exchanged baskets before Greece were able to eke out an 18:16 lead into the second term. Italy opened the second term with a 6:0 run to surge ahead. The Azzurri led for some time before Greece capped the half on a 6:0 run to ensure a 32:30 advantage. Alessandro Gentile nailed nine points in a row midway through the third quarter to put the Azzurri in front 49:41. Italy arrived at the final break up by 9 points 55:46. Greece cut the deficit to just three points but Alessandro Gentile followed with four straight points to keep Italy in front. Andrea De Nicolao (185-G-91) sealed the victory with four consecutive points late in regulation. Achille Polonara (202-F-91) accounted for 14 points and 6 boards for Italy. Andrea De Nicolao netted 8 points in the winning effort. Dimitrios Katsivelis (194-G-91) answered with 12 points for Greece. Manolis Koukoulas (211-C-91) provided 10 points in the losing effort.

Italy U20: Alessandro Gentile 23, Achille Polonara 14, Andrea De Nicolao 8
Greece U20: Dimitrios Katsivelis 12, Manolis Koukoulas 10


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  HOLLAND   


Stepco BS Weert extends Besseling and Padberg - by Fred Roggen
Stepco BS Weert announced that Dutch forwards Sjors Besseling (198-F-85, agency: Court Side) and Joost Padberg (202-F/C-91) stay in the team. The club has extended the contracts of both Dutch players with one year.
Small forward Sjors Besseling played 21 games for BS Weert and averaged 5.0 points and 1.9 rebounds per game. while Joost Padberg played 18 games in the DBL and averaged 0.0ppg and 0.4rpg last season.

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  HUNGARY   


Our NT started with a great win against Iran - by Tamas Deri
Our senior NT just played its first friendly game during the preparation for the EC qualificiation in August and had a great win against Iran last night in Szombathely. After a lost first half the guest could also win the 3rd quarter, but with a great last quarter our NT could win the game.

HUNGARY - Iran 75-66
(15-20, 21-17, 16-19, 24-10)
Arena Savaria, Att.: 1700, Referes: Palla Z., Sabali L., Boros T.
Hungary: Trotter 9, Adam Hanga (201-G-89, agency: TSS Management) 14/6, Molnar A. 2, Peter Lorant (207-F/C-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) 14/6, Marton Bader (212-C-80, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) 16, Akos Horvath (194-G/F-81) 11, Keller -, Fodor M. 4, Szabo Zs. -, Vojvoda 2, Soos -, Trepak 3/3, Head Coach: Branislav Dzunic, Assistant Coach: Balazs Sabali
Iran: Davari 5/3, Hamed Afagh (190-G-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) 22/12, Veisi 1, Sohrabnejad 5/3, Asghar Kardoost (212-C-86, agency: SportsList Inc.) 17, Nikkhah 9, Davoodi 3/3, Arghavan 4, Lalezadeh


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


U20: Iceland won the game over winless Belarus - by Eurobasket News
Belarus U20-Iceland U20 84:97

Iceland won the game over winless Belarus to celebrate the initial victory at the U20 European Championship. They edged Belarus 97:84 to close group D of the campaign with the win.
Tomas Tomasson (190-G-91) brought 6:6 on the court and Valiantsin Ihnatchyk (192-G-91) made the same at 16:16. The teams stayed tough and together, while Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) closed the period at 25:25. The battle continued in the second frame and only late shot from Vitali Liutych gave his side 47:46 at the halftime. Belrus however failed in the third period and stayed out of the race. Iceland erupted with 32-17 as Aegir Steinarsson (182-G-91) scored for 78:62. Iceland led the game to the win and finished the group on the fourth place.
Haukur Palsson (198-F-92) stepped up with 33 points to lead the charge. Aegir Steinarsson nailed 25, while Tomas Tomasson scored 18. Vitali Liutych ended up with 23 points for Belarus that finished with 0-4 record. Valiantsin Ihnatchyk notched 13 and Viktar Ausepian (205-F-91) posted 10.

Belarus U20: Vitali Liutych 23, Valiantsin Ihnatchyk 13, Viktar Ausepian 10
Iceland U20: Haukur Palsson 33, Aegir Steinarsson 25, Tomas Tomasson 18


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  IRAN   


Iran surrender against Hungary in test game - by Eurobasket News
Hungary - Iran 75:66

Iranian National Team opened their European tour with a friendly clash against Hungary. The hosts claimed a 9-point victory in Szombathely. The teams are scheduled to meet again on Wednesday. Marton Bader (212-C-80, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) scored 16 points to lead the European team.
Iran led 20:15 at the first break. The Asian powerhouse maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They recorded a 37:36 advantage at halftime. More to come in the third term as Iran secured a 56:51 lead with one quarter remaining. But Hungary went on a 24:10 run in the fourth quarter to seal the winning outcome at the end. Peter Lorant (207-F/C-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) and Adam Hanga (201-G-89, agency: TSS Management) scored 14 points each for the winners. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) answered with 22 points for Iran. Asghar Kardoost (212-C-86, agency: SportsList Inc.) added 17 points and 11 rebounds, while Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) netted 9 points in the loss.

Hungary: Marton Bader 16, Peter Lorant 14, Adam Hanga 14
Iran: Hamed Afagh 22, Asghar Kardoost 17+11 boards, Samad Nikkhah 9


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  ISRAEL   


Maccabi Rishon inks their first American player - Adrian Uter - by David Pick
After a thrilling and successful three seasons in Israel's second division, Adrian Uter (201-F/C-84, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) made a huge step in the right direction signing his first professional Divison1 contract is the Israeli BSL with Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion.

Uter was one of Hapoel's most dominant players last season, leading his team to an impressive 23-3 season record. Uter's signing is also a significant one, due to the fact that he is the team's first foreign player to join the roster, showing they are interested in building their team around the big Miami resident.

The 27-year-old gem came to Israel first for the 2008/9 season where he joined Lev Hasharon. After a great year he then transferred to Maccabi Habika and led to team all the way to the championship title posting exciting averages of 16.2 points, 9.6 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game.

Uter surprisingly didn't receive the call up everyone was expecting him to get, so he decided to sign with the striving Hapoel Tel Aviv, where again he displayed impressive skills and talent as he dominated the boards and almost finished with a season double-double average, 18.3ppg, 9rpg and 2bpg in just 27 minutes of play.

The talented Hofstra graduate is expected to fill in the big shoes left by American Aaron McGhee, however, the sky is the limit for Uter and as we see, success has been coming his way.



U20: Bosnia and Herzegovina got the last ticket from Group G to make it to the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Bosnia and Herzegovina U20-Israel U20 60:57

Bosnia and Herzegovina got the last ticket from Group G to make it to the Qualifying Round of the European Championship. The hosts needed 60:57 over Israel to take their spot in the next round. Israel dropped to 2-2 record on the third place.
It was the real battle in the court as both teams needed the win in order to advance. Bosnia took 19:13 after the first period, but Timor tied the game at 24:24. Sztarkman later tied the game at 27:27 sending the teams to the lockers. It was hot also in the second half and 14-14 after the third period showed 41:41. Jeremiah Kreisberg (206-C/F-92) gave Israel 51:48 lead, while Ranko Ivic (193-G-92) delivered for Bosnia at 56:51. His last two free throws became the last in the game as the hosts together with 500 fans started to celebrate the victory.
Nikola Gajic (195-G-91) and Ranko Ivic chipped in 12 points each, while Miralem Halilovic (206-F-91) netted 10. Jeremiah Kreisberg replied with 16 points in defeat and Tom Havkin (202-F-91, agency: Avi Zilberman) scored 13.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U20: Nikola Gajic 12, Ranko Ivic 12, Miralem Halilovic 10
Israel U20: Jeremiah Kreisberg 16, Tom Havkin 13


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  ITALY   


Riccardo Cortese moves to Veroli - by Antonello Varallo
After two seasons with Scandone Avellino,Riccardo Cortese (197-G-86) has signed a two years deal with Basket Veroli. Riccardo is a very versatile player (he can play as guard and forward). He ended last season with 3.4 ppg and 2.1 rpg, with a season high of 18 points scored against Pesaro. During his career, Cortese also played with Fortitudo Bologna, Basket Cecina, Brindisi and Matera. His brother in law is NBA player Carlos Delfino (198-G-82), who was his team-mate at Fortitudo Bologna.

Alex Righetti joins Pepsi Caserta - by Antonello Varallo
Pepsi Juvecaserta announced the agreement with former Italian National Team shooting guard Alex Righetti (198-G/F-77, agency: Interperformances)
Righetti is one of the best italian offensive players, and during his long career he has always showed great scoring skills. He spent the best years with Rimini and Roma, and in 2007-2008 he gave a big contribution to the amazing season of Scandone Avellino. After two unlucky seasons with Virtus Bologna, he played last season with Cimberio Varese, averaging 7.2 ppg in 31 games with a season high of 22 points scored against Fabi Shoes Montegranaro.

Enel Brindisi ink Craig Callahan - by Eurobasket News
Enel Brindisi stay active on the transfer market. They have announced the arrival of Craig Callahan (203-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: NC-Wilmington). The 30-year-old forward spent the last season in Germany. He played for Bremerhaven in 1Bundesliga. Craig Callahan averaged 14.8 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. Previously the forward had spells for Dexia Mons-Hainaut, Manresa, Prostejov, Novy Jicin. Eurobasket.com named Craig Callahan All-Czech Republic Import Player of the Year in 2004 and 2006. He was also named All-Czech Republic Player of the Year in 2006. Last season the forward earned All-German Bundesliga Honourable Mention from Eurobasket.com.
It is the second newcomer for Enel Brindisi in as many days. Yesterday they officiated the deal with Alex Renfroe (190-G-86, college: Belmont).


Pepsi Caserta brings in Kevin Fletcher - by Eurobasket News
Kevin Fletcher (207-C-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Colorado Springs) is a new member of Pepsi Caserta. The American big guy penned a one-year deal with his new club. He arrives to Caserta from Banca Tercas Teramo, where he spent 2010/11. Fletcher appeared 30 times in SerieA averaging 12 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1 steal. Before Teramo, Fletcher spent one season with Besiktas Istanbul. He helped them reach TBL Semifinals with 6.7 ppg and 3 rpg for 29 games. Fletcher also added 11.1 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 7 EuroCup games. Season 2008/09, Kevin Fletcher played for Enisey Krasnoyarsk. He had 8.8 ppg and for 4.7 for the club in Russia. He also has experience from Aris, Slask Wroclaw, Astoria and Polpharma.

Dinamo Sassari keeps Vanuzzo, Devecchi, Pinton and entire coaching staff - by Eurobasket News
After Travis Diener (183-G-82, college: Marquette) and Vanja Plisnic (207-F/C-80, agency: Beo Basket), Dinamo Sassari kept Manuel Vanuzzo (203-F-75), Giacomo DeVecchi (196-F-85, agency: Players Group) and Mauro Pinton (185-G-84) for the next season. They also confirmed the entire coaching staff, while at the same time Sassari parted ways with Alessandro Cittadini (207-C/F-79).
Manuel Vanuzzo played 30 games for the club last season averaging 4.9 points and 2.1 rebounds. He is a member of Sassari since 2006.
Giacomo DeVecchi arrived to Sassari also in 2006. He had 3.6 ppg, 1.2 rpg and 1.2 spg last season. Both players helped the club win promotion from LegaDue to SerieA in 2010.
Mauro Pinton joined Sassari last summer from Brinsidi. He played 31 games in SerieA registering 3.7 ppg and 1.3 apg. In the past, Pinton also played for Rimini.

U20: Alessandro Gentile steps up for Italy as they outlast Greece - by Eurobasket News
Italy U20 - Greece U20 64:59

Alessandro Gentile (198-G/F-92) scored 23 points to pace Italy to the fourth straight win at the U20 European Championship. Italy held off Greece to take 4-0 record in Group F. Greece fell at 1-3 record after the loss.
It was a really close battle in the opening quarter. The teams exchanged baskets before Greece were able to eke out an 18:16 lead into the second term. Italy opened the second term with a 6:0 run to surge ahead. The Azzurri led for some time before Greece capped the half on a 6:0 run to ensure a 32:30 advantage. Alessandro Gentile nailed nine points in a row midway through the third quarter to put the Azzurri in front 49:41. Italy arrived at the final break up by 9 points 55:46. Greece cut the deficit to just three points but Alessandro Gentile followed with four straight points to keep Italy in front. Andrea De Nicolao (185-G-91) sealed the victory with four consecutive points late in regulation. Achille Polonara (202-F-91) accounted for 14 points and 6 boards for Italy. Andrea De Nicolao netted 8 points in the winning effort. Dimitrios Katsivelis (194-G-91) answered with 12 points for Greece. Manolis Koukoulas (211-C-91) provided 10 points in the losing effort.

Italy U20: Alessandro Gentile 23, Achille Polonara 14, Andrea De Nicolao 8
Greece U20: Dimitrios Katsivelis 12, Manolis Koukoulas 10


*****************************************************
  JAPAN   


Saitama Broncos name Dean Murray new Head Coach - by Eurobasket
Saitama Broncos officially announced the name of the new head coach of the team. Dean Murray will take over the team in the upcoming season. Murray will replace Bob Nash, who was the head coach last season.
The US coach has most recently worked as a coach assistant at Xinjiang Gyang Hui Flying Tigers (China-CBA) which won the regular season and reached the Playoffs Finals.

*****************************************************
  LATVIA   


U20: Mareks Mejeris leads Latvia past Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U20 - Slovenia U20 89:84

Latvia celebrated the first win at the Qualifying Round of U20 European Championship. They prevailed against Slovenia to improve at 2-2 record in Group E. Slovenia fell at 0-4 record. Mareks Mejeris (207-F-91, agency: Players Group) provided 20 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge.
Mareks Mareks Mejeris notched 7 points in the opening frame as Latvia posted a 21:13 lead at the first break. Latvia cleared off to a 7-point distance in the second term. Butjankovs opened a double-digit lead late in the first half 41:31. Latvia ensured a 44:37 halftime advantage. But Slovenia quickly erased the deficit and soon Klemen Prepelic (191-G-92) pulled his team in front. Slovenia entered the final frame up by five points 68:63. Mareks Mejeris triggered a 16:0 run that put Latvia on top 85:73. Slovenia made a fierce comeback effort cutting the deficit at 3 points 82:85. Lejasmeiers and Antrops hit four free throws in the dying seconds to seal the winning outcome for Latvia. Martins Meiers (206-C-91) notched 18 points and 9 rebounds for Latvia. Ugis Pinete (194-F-91) added 17 points, 5 boards and 5 assists in the victory. Klemen Prepelic answered with 17 points for Slovenia. Alen Omic (213-C-92) answered with 16 points in the loss.

Latvia U20: Mareks Mejeris 20+11 boards, Martins Meiers 18, Ugis Pinete 17
Slovenia U20: Klemen Prepelic 17, Alen Omic 16


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


U20: Croatia prevail against Lithuania in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - Croatia U20 76:82

Lithuania lost their second straight game at the U20 European Championship Classification Round. They surrendered against Croatia to slip at 0-2 record in Group G. Croatia on the other hand celebrated the first win and improved at 1-1 record in the ladder. Domagoj Bubalo (214-C-91) stepped up with 25 points to pace the Croats.
Saulius Kulvietis (203-F-91) unloaded 12 points in the starting quarter but Croatia overcame this effort posting a 21:18 lead at the first break. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the second quarter. Finally Roko Rogic (185-G-92) hit a jumper to make it 44:43 for Croatia at halftime. The teams stayed close throughout the third frame. Staniulis scored six points late in the quarter to give the Baltic team a 67:62 lead with one period remaining. Dambrauskas stretched the gap to 7 points at the beginning of the fourth quarter. However Barac soon drained three triples in a row to put Croatia back on top. Domagoj Bubalo and Babic made it 77:73 for Croatia with under three minutes to go. Biruta and Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) cut the deficit but Domagoj Bubalo and Ivan Batur (203-G/F-91) accounted for five consecutive points and Croatia celebrated a crucial win at the end. Roko Rogic nailed 14 points, while Ivan Batur produced 13 points in the victory. Saulius Kulvietis replied with 17 points for Lithuania. Dovydas Redikas had 14 points and 7 assists in defeat.

Lithuania U20: Saulius Kulvietis 17, Dovydas Redikas 14
Croatia U20: Domagoj Bubalo 25, Roko Rogic 14, Ivan Batur 13


World Military Championship: Lithuania stay perfect with win over Uzbekistan - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Uzbekistan 86:53

Lithuania posted the third consecutive victory at the World Military Championship. They eased past Uzbekistan for 3-0 record on top of Group B. Henrikas Rumsa (190-G-82) nailed 20 points to lead the charge. Uzbekistan fell at 1-2 record after the defeat.
Lithuania stunned their opponents early on. The Baltic team outgunned Uzbekistan 21:7 in the starting frame. Lithuania mounted the pressure in the second quarter. They cleared off at 27-point distance at halftime 45:18. The Baltic team quickly boosted the margin to 30 points in the third period and never looked back on the way to the victory. Tomas Lukosevicius (200-C-80) provide 16 points, while Eimantas Narusis (201-F-86) added 12 points and 11 rebounds for Lithuania. Aleksandr Kozlov (202-F-82) answered with 15 points for Uzbekistan. Gennadiy Zinovyev (195-F-84) had 9 points and 8 rebounds in the losing effort.

Lithuania: Henrikas Rumsa 20, Tomas Lukosevicius 16, Eimantas Narusis 12+11 boards
Uzbekistan: Aleksandr Kozlov 15, Gennadiy Zinovyev 9


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


Residence land Jerome Gumbs - by Eurobasket News
Jerome Gumbs (194-F-82, college: USF) will continue his career in Luxembourg. The 29-year-old forward has agreed on terms of contract with Residence. Jerome Gumbs started the previous season in Mexico. He played for Lobos Grises in LNBP. In January the forward moved to the United Kingdom to join the Plymouth Raiders. His stats read 12.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.4 steals per game in BBL. Jerome Gumbs is not new to Luxembourg. He played for T71 Dudelange back in 2007/08 season. The forward averaged impressive 23.8 points, 10.7 boards, 2.2 assists and 1.6 steals per game for T71. Jerome Gumbs played for US Virgin Islands at 2010 Central American and Caribbean Games. His stats read 9.0 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game in Mayaguez.


Milos Ristic joins Black Star - by Eurobasket News
Black Star strengthened their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Milos Ristic (197-F-82). The 28-year-old forward spent the last season in Romania. He averaged 8.6 points and 2.4 rebounds per game for Dinamo Bucuresti. Previously the Serbian player had stints in Belarus, Iceland, France and Serbia. Milos Ristic participated at Belarusian All-Star Game in 2008.


Ivan Djerman is a newcomer at Amicale Steinsel - by Eurobasket Center
Amicale Steinsel strengthened their roster with addition of 28-year old Croatian-Austrian small forward Ivan Djerman (202-F-83, agency: Global Sports Plaza). Djerman played most recently at Gimle BBK Bergen (Norway). While playing 17 games for Gimle last season he averaged 16.0ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.4apg and 1.2spg. Djerman is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Austria, Bulgaria, Holland and Spain.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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


U18: San Marino upset Moldova in Arena Domus - by Eurobasket News
San Marino U18-Moldova U18 69:62

San Marino upset Moldova in Arena Domus of Serravalle in the start of the U18 European Championship. The hosts won 69:62 in the five-nation campaign.
Nistor and Moretti were the first players to score for each teams in the start of the game. Gualtieri gave the hosts 13:8 and Beloborodov closed the period at 17:12. San Marino started to increase the lead in the second frame and after 26-16 had 43:28. Ostafiiciuc started the third period from the free throw line and reduced to 13 points. Beloborodov closed the third period at 50:45 and Marcenco reduced to 53:51 but that was all Moldova could do. San Marino won the fourth frame 19-17 to seal the victory.
Gualtieri paced all the winners with 25 points for the first victory. Andrea Merlini (189-F/C-93) and Davide Macina (178-G-93) nailed 12 points each, while Guerra scored 10. Solopa replied with 16 points in the losing effort, Marcenco scored 13, while Ostafiiciuc collected 12 points and 15 rebounds.

San Marino U18: Gualtieri 25, Andrea Merlini 12, Davide Macina 12, Guerra 10
Moldova U18: Solopa 16, Marcenco 13, Ostafiiciuc 12+15 rebs


Moldovan U18 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
4 Eugeniu Pogorelov G-94 Gamma Moldova
5 Stefan Efros 178-PG-93
6 Maxim Scomarohov G-94 Patriot Moldova
7 Vladislav Solopa F-95
8 Artiom Levitchii G-94
9 Sergiu Chiriac 190-G/F-93 MC Brasov Romania
10 Gleb Beloborodov G-94 Patriot Moldova
11 Andrei Lucitkii F-94
12 Emil Ostafiiciuc C-94
13 Egor Nistor F-93 Gamma Moldova
14 Elvin Vazdautanu C-94
15 Daniel Marcenco 197-C-93
Head Coach: Oleg Dical
Assistant Coach: Alexandr Sestopal



*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO   


U20: France topple Montenegro for another win in Spain - by Eurobasket News
France U20 - Montenegro U20 58:49

France continued their unbeaten run at the U20 European Championship. They overcame Montenegro tonight to improve at 4-0 record in Qualifying Round Group E. Romain Hillotte (195-G-91) scored 12 points to lead the effort. Montenegro fell at 2-2 record after the loss.
France got to a flying start as they enjoyed an 8:2 lead midway through the first frame. Montenegro got closer but Romain Hillotte capped the period with a three-pointer as France grabbed a 16:10 advantage. Les Bleus maintained the lead throughout the low-scoring second period. France arrived at halftime up by three points 22:19. Montenegro tried hard but could not erase the deficit in the third quarter. They faced a 6-point deficit heading into the fourth frame 32:38. Romain Hillotte, Yeguete and Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) opened a double-digit lead for France in the final period. Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Halil Kanacevic (203-F-91) dragged the Balkan team within 6 points but it was as close as Montenegro could get. France stayed calm in the dying minutes and registered a well-deserved win at the end. Leo Westermann nailed 11 points, while Joffrey Lauvergne (210-F-91) accounted for 9 points in the victory. Bojan Dubljevic had 17 points and 7 rebounds for Montenegro. Halil Kanacevic finished with 10 points in defeat.

France U20: Romain Hillotte 12, Leo Westermann 11, Joffrey Lauvergne 9
Montenegro U20: Bojan Dubljevic 17, Halil Kanacevic 10


Montenegro comes back from China - by Eurobasket News
Montenegrin B National Team finished its campaign in China. They clinched the second place in Four-Nations tournament held in Kunshan and Yongcheng. Montenegro narrowly lost to China 60:62 on the final day of the tournament. Montenegro trailed by as many as 11 points at the first break 7:18. However the European team adjusted their offence and cut the deficit to 5 points at halftime 28:33. Montenegro surged ahead in the third period. They fired 22 points to take a 7-point lead with one quarter remaining. But China proved calm and determined. The hosts limited the visitors to 10 points in the final quarter and eked out a tough win at the end. Wang Lei (203-F-86) led the charge with 15 points. Mo Ke (210-C-82) and Su Wei (212-C-89) contributed 8 points each in the victory. Nemanja Vranjes (188-G-88), Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87) and Marko Popovic (200-F-85) answered with 10 points each for Montenegro. Goran Martinic (186-G-87, agency: BeoExcell) delivered 9 points in the loss.


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


Union plans player meetings as lockout drags on with no progress - by Eurobasket News
There will be labor-related meetings in the near future.

They just aren't the kind that typically lead to collective bargaining progress.

According to sources close to the situation, the National Basketball Players Association is planning a series of player sessions in as many as six cities over 'the next month or so,' as a way to help with its planning during the lockout and update players on the state of negotiations with the NBA. Unless things unexpectedly change, there won't be much to report on that front.

While mid-level staffers from both sides met on Friday to finalize the numbers related to basketball-related income (BRI) for the 2010-11 season, no negotiating sessions involving commissioner David Stern or NBPA executive director Billy Hunter have been scheduled. Sources said the BRI numbers were not finalized Friday and more similar sessions are forthcoming to that end, but the union is focused on fortifying from within rather than exchanging proposals with the owners, who are pushing for a hard salary cap as part of a drastic overhaul to the current system.

While the details of the player meetings have not been set, the possible cities in which they will take place include Atlanta, Los Angeles, Houston, New York and Chicago, among others. The sessions -- which will involve Hunter and other staff members -- will be a discussion on lockout life and how best to handle it, with topics ranging from players' health insurance to the overseas option that continues to evolve.

The union is clearly in favor of players like Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Illinois) finding income elsewhere during the work stoppage. While most players won't start missing paychecks until November, the New Jersey point guard signed a deal with Turkish team Besiktas that ESPN.com reported to be worth $5 million for one season. The deal -- which sparked a flurry of activity among agents and players who continue to investigate the market to learn how lucrative it might be -- has a clause that lets Williams out in the event the lockout is lifted. Besiktas, which was reportedly pursuing the Lakers' Kobe Bryant before a match-fixing scandal with the club's soccer team froze its accounts and halted the recruitment, is expected to start its season on Sept. 27.

Players are exploring exhibition games as a way to make lockout money as well, among them a July 24 game in the Philippines that will include a star-studded group headed by Bryant and New Orleans' Chris Paul. The games are believed to be very profitable for the players, with top stars like Bryant making hundreds of thousands of dollars for the one appearance.

There is plenty of negotiating going on at the moment, in other words. Just not between the two sides.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Timberwolves interview Mike Woodson - by Eurobasket News
David Kahn told reporters at the press conference after Kurt Rambis was fired that he was looking for a coach with 'uptempo DNA.' That's all the rage in Minnesota. Kahn is aware he can't force the team or its fans to endure another rebuilding stretch to demolish the current rebuilding scheme and survive with his job intact, so he's doing what you do when you have a fast team you can't do anything with: Try and go faster.

But based off the first couple of candidates Kahn has interviewed outside of Don Nelson (which is all sorts of crazy), the phrase 'I do not think that word means what you think it means' comes to mind.

We brought you word Monday that the Wolves were interviewing former Blazer player and former Suns coach Terry Porter. Porter's teams have always erred on the fast side, but much of that is likely due to the makeup of the personnel he was walking into. He hasn't 'built' a fast team, he's just coached them. And not very well, at that. He tried to slow down the Suns, which, if you're going to slow them down, you have to go all the way and reshape the entire tempo of the team, not go halfway (and ditch Steve Nash, but that's another conversation). Porter does have experience as an assistant in Minnesota, but that still seems like an odd fit.

Then there's news Tuesday of the Wolves interviewing Mike Woodson. As for Woodson's fast-break pedigree? Well, let's let SBNation.com point the way:
In announcing the firing of Rambis, Kahn said he'd be looking for a coach more committed to the fast break. Like Porter, Woodson is puzzling in that context. The Hawks finished No. 27 in the NBA in pace factor in Woodson's final season in Atlanta, and over his tenure averaged a finish of No. 20.
via Mike Woodson To Interview For Timberwolves' Head Coach Job - SBNation.com.

Woodson's a good overall coach, and the work he did with the Hawks was underrated (just look at the job Larry Drew did in his first year for reference, despite the team's record and second-round appearance). But he's a poor fit for the Timberwolves, especially within the context of bringing that 'uptempo DNA.' He has more of a 'slow it down and most likely have the ball wind up in an ISO situation DNA' kind of guy (though the ball movement on the Hawks in his term was better than it was with Drew this season).

It seems like we're piling on here just to pile on Kahn, and maybe that's the case. After all it doesn't make sense to criticize the Wolves for wanting a fast team, then criticize them for bringing in slower coaches. It just doesn't speak well to have a flawed plan to begin with, or rather to say you have a plan that's obviously flawed, and then to take steps which act in total denial of that plan.

But then, them's the breaks, and at this point, the only happy ending for this Wolves team (with Kahn) is for things to just randomly work out, which has happened from time to time. But let it be noted that from this vantage point at this moment in time, the sausage factory looks awfully weird.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Turkish club Besiktas no longer after Kobe Bryant, says report - by Eurobasket News
The Turkish team Besiktas has officially placed a hold on their pursuit of Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78), according to overseas reports. As of Monday night, Turkey's NTV Sport reported that the team's available basketball funds have been siphoned off by a match-fixing scandal that is tearing across the Turkish soccer landscape.

Any further acquisitions by Besiktas will be reliant on procuring an affluent new team sponsor, according to NTV Sport. Though, Bryant's sponsorship through Turkish Airlines does add an interesting outside caveat to the discussions.

Before the onset of the scandal, the Turkish club was in talks for a contract that would pay Bryant a monthly salary of $500,000. However, the Lakers' All-Star was said to have been holding out for an estimated salary of $1 million per month.

Besiktas famously signed New Jersey Nets point guard Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Illinois) earlier this month. Williams' contract is reported to pay him $5 million over two years.

Courtesy of www.sbnation.com

NBA lockout: League, FIBA officials meeting ahead of Olympic qualifying tournaments - by Eurobasket News
NBA Commissioner David Stern and leaders from the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), the sport's international governing body, will meet in New York today to discuss the effect of the ongoing NBA lockout on upcoming Olympics qualification tournaments, according to an ESPN.com report.

According to the ESPN.com report, the representatives will discuss:

The prohibitive cost of securing insurance for foreign NBA players who wish to play for their national teams this summer, and the legal ramifications of FIBA issuing letters of clearance to players such as Deron Williams who have signed contracts with overseas teams.
When the NBA locked out its players on July 1, a program was suspended 'that provided an infrastructure for national federations seeking to purchase insurance policies for the NBA contracts of their best players,' according to the report.

Without that program, foreign basketball federations have been forced to find group insurance packages for dozens of NBA players, according to the report.

Spain, which will field a team of five players with NBA contracts at the Eurobasket tournament that starts Aug. 31, has estimated insurance costs of $6.7 million, the head of the Spanish basketball federation has said. Other federations are facing similar costs, according to the report.

The FIBA Americas tournament begins Aug. 30.

Courtesy of www.nj.com

NBA releases 2011-12 season schedule - by Eurobasket News
The NBA released its complete 2011-12 schedule Tuesday despite being in a lockout that could last months and cause it to be scrapped.

The defending champion Dallas Mavericks will open the season -- if it begins on time -- at home Nov. 1 against MVP Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls.

On the back end of the opening-night doubleheader: The Oklahoma City Thunder play the Lakers in Los Angeles.

Owners and players are still well apart in negotiations on a labor deal to replace the one that expired June 30. There is a fear that regular-season games could be lost to a work stoppage for the second time in league history.

Most teams will begin Nov. 2. LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh start their second season together on the Heat with a game against the Knicks.

The Mavericks will host the Thunder Nov. 5 in a rematch of their Western Conference finals encounter.

Speaking of reacquaintances, Dallas takes on Miami in a Finals rematch that is the middle game of a Christmas Day tripleheader. At noon ET, the Celtics take on the Knicks on ESPN, followed by Heat-Mavs at 2:30 p.m. ET (ABC) and Bulls-Lakers at 5 ET, also on ABC.

In a rematch of their Eastern Conference finals series, the Bulls and Heat square off Jan. 19.

Courtesy of ESPN

Timberwolves interview Terry Porter - by Eurobasket News
Terry Porter spent 17 seasons in the NBA as a point guard, a two-time All-Star who helped Portland reach the NBA finals and was regarded as one of the smartest players at his position.

With helping Ricky Rubio make the transition from Spain to the United States one of David Kahn's biggest priorities, it's no wonder that Porter was the first person to get a formal interview for the Minnesota Timberwolves coaching vacancy.

A person with knowledge of the meeting told The Associated Press that Porter interviewed on Monday. The person requested anonymity because the team was not commenting publicly on the search process.

Porter's previous experience as a head coach - in Milwaukee and Phoenix - and his background as a point guard could make him an ideal fit in Minnesota, which is coming off 32 total wins in two seasons under Kurt Rambis.

But Kahn has been adamant that he wants a coach with 'up-tempo DNA,' which seems to contradict Porter's hard-nosed, defensive mindset. Porter went 71-93 in two seasons with the Bucks and lasted just over half a season in Phoenix in 2008-09 when his slow-it-down style didn't jibe with Steve Nash and the high-octane Suns.

'We are going to play - as I've said really since the first day I arrived - a very up-tempo, fast-breaking style on both ends of the floor,' Kahn said last week when he announced Rambis's firing. 'And I think that it's very important as we go through the search process that we identify somebody who passionately believes in that and probably has a little bit of a track record in that respect and can help make this come to fruition.'

Of course, the Timberwolves may need more help on the defensive end than they do on offense. With offensive-minded players such as Kevin Love, Michael Beasley and Wes Johnson, the Wolves scored more than 101 points per game last season, good for 10th in the league.

But they gave up more points than any other team and consistently let leads slip away in the fourth quarter because of their inability to get stops.

Still, Kahn seems more concerned with finding a coach who wants to get the ball up and down the court quickly, a style that he thinks appeals to the players more than the grind-it-out, defensive game. With Rubio, Beasley, Love, Johnson and No. 2 overall draft pick Derrick Williams, Kahn thinks he has the talent to run, and that's what he want to see happen.

Porter is the first to have a formal interview, but he won't be the last. Kahn interviewed about a dozen candidates the first time he made a hire and promised a 'voluminous' search this time around as well. Career wins leader Don Nelson, Trail Blazers assistant Bernie Bickerstaff and Memphis assistant Dave Joerger are among the others expected to get consideration.

'I think we'll have a thorough search and we'll try to find somebody who embraces the notion of wanting to coach an up-tempo style on both sides of the floor and somebody who really connects well with young players,' he said last week.

Courtesy of www.thenewstribune.com

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


SEC Commissioner: NCAA change is in the air - by Eurobasket News
Southeastern Conference Commissioner Mike Slive thinks change is in the air for the NCAA - and to him that's a good thing.

Slive says he and other college and league administrators 'feel like change is important,' including having investigations 'handled in a timely way.' Slive spoke to The Associated Press ahead of SEC media days starting Wednesday, with NCAA investigations dominating the news from college athletics.

In the SEC, Tennessee is awaiting a ruling after a 22-month investigation into the football and men's basketball programs, while the NCAA is still investigating the recruitment of Heisman Trophy-winning Auburn quarterback Cam Newton. Auburn has not received an official letter of inquiry.

The SEC head supports a proposal that would allow universities to pay student athletes the full cost of an education.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Tom Moore gets contract extension from Quinnipiac - by Eurobasket News
Quinnipiac University Director of Athletics and Recreation Jack McDonald has announced that Men's Basketball Head Coach Tom Moore has signed a contract extension through the 2015-16 season. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

'I am thrilled to receive another contract extension from Quinnipiac University,' Moore said. 'President John Lahey and Director of Athletics Jack McDonald have been incredibly supportive of me and my program since I arrived here four years ago. I am excited about our future as we continue to establish Quinnipiac as one of the elite programs in the Northeast Conference.'

Moore guided the Bobcats to a 22-10 record and a home game in the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament in 2010-11. Justin Rutty was named to the All-NEC First Team for the third straight year, while James Johnson joined him among the league's top five players, giving Moore back-to-back years guiding a pair of All-NEC First Team members.

Moore led Quinnipiac to an unprecedented 23 victories in 2009-10, guiding the Bobcats to the program's first-ever NEC Regular Season Championship and national postseason tournament berth (NIT). Under Moore's tutelage, Rutty was named the program's first-ever NEC Player of the Year. Rutty and James Feldeine were also named to the all-league first team under Moore's direction.

A large part of the Bobcats' success in 2009-10 and 2010-11 was their prowess on the boards. The Bobcats led the nation in offensive rebounds per game (16.3) in 2010-11, while finishing second in rebounds per game (42.5) and fourth in rebounding margin (+9.3). Under Moore's direction, Rutty finished his career as the Northeast Conference's all-time leading rebounder (1,032).

Quinnipiac was one of four teams - Kansas, Kentucky and Radford - to finish the year in the top 10 in the country in both rebounding margin and rebounds per game in 2009-10, before repeating the feat in 2010-11, joining Pittsburgh and Old Dominion. Quinnipiac finished 2009-10 behind only Michigan State (+8.6) in rebound margin at +8.5, while taking 10th in the nation in rebounds per game at 40.4. Individually, Rutty finished second in the nation in offensive rebounds per game (4.9) for the second consecutive year in 2009-10.

Over the last two years, the Bobcats' 28-8 record against NEC opponents is the best in the league, while the excitement Coach Moore has brought to Hamden has resulted in the conference's top average attendance at home games.

In the classroom, Moore led the greatest turnaround of any team in NCAA Division I during his first three years as head coach. According to a study prepared by FoxSports.com's Jason Belzer, the Bobcats increased their Academic Progress Rate (APR), as compiled by the NCAA, by 219 points, more than any other program in the nation in that time.

Courtesy of http://blogs.courant.com

World Military Championship: USA cruise past Canada - by Eurobasket News
USA - Canada 103:45

The United States earned the third straight win at the World Military Championship. They overcame Canada to stay perfect in Group A. Paul Nelson (6'10''-C-88, college: Yale) and Matt Holland (6'6''-F) scored 22 points each to pace the USA.
The USA stunned Canada in the opening frame. They went on a 31:7 run to build a comfortable advantage. The United States rallied to a 57:19 lead at halftime. Canada struggled in every facet of the game. The USA piled up a 76:30 lead with one quarter remaining. Canada never recovered allowing their opponents to cruise to the victory. Matt McCraw (6'2''-G) contributed 15 points and 6 boards, while Jammar Major had 13 points for the USA. Bradley Krajcik (6'4''-G-84) answered with 15 points for Canada. Andrew Rupf (6'7''-C/F-76) netted 10 points in defeat.

USA: Paul Nelson 22, Matt Holland 22, Matt McCraw 15
Canada: Bradley Krajcik 15, Andrew Rupf 10


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


2011 NZNBL Award Winners - by Duncan Matheson

Most Valuable Player
Alex Pledger (216-C-87, college: Belm.Abbey) (Waikato Pistons)

NZ Most Valuable Player
Alex Pledger (Waikato Pistons)

Regular Season Winners
Wellington Exodus Saints (13-3)

Keith Carr Trophy Most Outstanding Guard
Lindsay Tait (194-G-82, agency: Impact Basketball) (Wellington Exodus Saints)

John Macdonald Trophy Most Outstanding NZ Guard
Lindsay Tait (Wellington Exodus Saints)

Commissioners Cup Most Outstanding Forward
Alex Pledger (Waikato Pistons)

Stan Hill Trophy Most Outstanding NZ Foward/Center
Alex Pledger (Waikato Pistons)

Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy Leading Individual Rebounder
Nick Horvath (208-F/C-81, college: Duke) (11.7) (McDonalds Manawatu Jets)

Dave Taylor Trophy Leading Assists
Jason Crowe (193-G-76, college: Cal.St. Northridge) (7.2) (Waikato Pistons)

Leading Scorer
Jack Leasure (191-G-86, college: Co.Carolina) (22.9) (Taranaki Mountain Airs)

All Star Five
Lindsay Tait (Wellington Exodus Saints)
Jason Crowe (Waikato Pistons)
Thomas Abercrombie (198-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Washington St.) (Waikato Pistons)
Mika Vukona (197-F-82) (Fico Finance Nelson Giants)
Alex Pledger (Waikato Pistons)

Rookie of the Year
Steven Adams (211-C-94) (Wellington Exodus Saints)

Coach of the Year
Dean Vickerman (Waikato Pistons)

Administrator of the Year
Jill Bolger (Zero Fees Southland Sharks)



Australiabasket.com All-New Zealand NBL Awards 2011 - by Greg
Australiabasket.com All-New Zealand NBL 1st Team 2011
#s#
Alex Pledger
Pledger
Lindsay Tait
Tait
Jason Crowe
Crowe
Thomas Abercrombie
Abercrombie
Mika Vukona
Vukona
#e#5

Player of the Year: Alex Pledger (216-C-87) of Waikato P.
Guard of the Year: Lindsay Tait (194-G-82) of Wellington S.
Forward of the Year: Thomas Abercrombie (198-G/F-87) of Waikato P.
Center of the Year: Alex Pledger (216-C-87) of Waikato P.
Newcomer of the Year: Steven Adams (211-C-94) of Wellington S.
Import Player of the Year: Jason Crowe (193-G-76) of Waikato P.
Domestic Player of the Year: Alex Pledger (216-C-87) of Waikato P.
Defensive Player of the Year: Alex Pledger (216-C-87) of Waikato P.
Coach of the Year: Dean Vickerman of Waikato P.

1st Team
G: Lindsay Tait (194-82) of Wellington S.
G: Jason Crowe (193-76) of Waikato P.
G/F: Thomas Abercrombie (198-87) of Waikato P.
F: Mika Vukona (197-82) of Nelson G.
C: Alex Pledger (216-87) of Waikato P.

2nd Team
G: Jerry Smith (185-87) of Waikato P.
G: Mark Dickel (187-76) of Southland S.
G: Jack Leasure (191-86) of Taranaki MA
F/C: Nick Horvath (208-81) of Manawatu J.
C: Kareem Johnson (205-80) of Wellington S.

Honorable Mention
Corey Webster (185-G-88) of Wellington S.
Josh Pace (198-G-83) of Bay Hawks
Rod Grizzard (203-G-80) of Nelson G.
Phill Jones (196-G-74) of Nelson G.
Jeremiah Trueman (206-F-87) of Manawatu J.
Brendon Polyblank (200-G/F-78) of Southland S.
Marcus Campbell (214-C-82) of Taranaki MA
Dillon Boucher (196-F-75) of Auckland P.
Lance Allred (211-C-81) of OceanaGold N.

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Lindsay Tait (194-82) of Wellington S.
G: Mark Dickel (187-76) of Southland S.
F: Mika Vukona (197-82) of Nelson G.
F/C: Nick Horvath (208-81) of Manawatu J.
C: Alex Pledger (216-87) of Waikato P.

All-Imports Team
G: Jerry Smith (185-87) of Waikato P.
G: Jason Crowe (193-76) of Waikato P.
G: Jack Leasure (191-86) of Taranaki MA
G/F: Thomas Abercrombie (198-87) of Waikato P.
C: Kareem Johnson (205-80) of Wellington S.

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


U20: Portugal advanced to the Qualifying Round in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Norway U20-Portugal U20 69:77

Portugal advanced to the Qualifying Round in Sarajevo after the win over Norway in the last day of the Preliminary Round. Portugal needed 77:69 to finish second with 4-1 record. Norway clinched fifth place in the group with 1-4 record.
After being tied at 4:4, Portugal went on a 9-0 run as Carlos Ferreirinho (200-F/G-91) brought 13:4. Miguel Cardoso (182-PG-93) made both free throws at the end of the first period for 27:18 lead. Portugal added 22-17 in the second period for 49:35 at the halftime. Norway meanwhile won the third period 17-16 as Karamo Jawara (200-F-91) reduced to 52:63, but Azevedo and Queiroz made it 68:54. Norway made their last push to catch up and could cut it to 8 points at the end of the game.
Sergio Santos (196-F-92) paced all the winners with 18 points, while Miguel Cardoso, Henrique Sico (192-G-92) and Carlos Ferreirinho notched 11 apiece. Karamo Jawara ended up with 16 points and 14 rebounds in defeat and Atle Ndiaye (193-F-92) posted 12.

Norway U20: Karamo Jawara 16+14 rebs, Atle Ndiaye 12
Portugal U20: Sergio Santos 18, Miguel Cardoso 11, Henrique Sico 11, Carlos Ferreirinho 11


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


Regatas is victorious in rematch against Real Club - by Timothy
Monday night the rematch of the rival clubs Regatas Lima and Universidad de Lima / Real Club de Lima took place. In the first match between these two teams back in May, Universidad de Lima / Real Club de Lima came out with a 10 point win and took control of the 1st place spot concluding the first stage of the season. Last night Regatas Lima was determined to 'even the score'. After a game winning shot attempt from 30 feet by Tim Nelson (186-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Oklahoma S&A) didnt fall, the game was sent to an overtime period where Regatas Lima took control, attacking the basket and hitting almost every shot they threw up. Nelson's 30 points and 5 assists (24 points in the 2nd half) was not enough to hold off the racing Regatas Lima team this game. The final score was 89-87 and the series between these two clubs is now tied.

Standings - Superior
Superior Standings
 1. Regatas 20-2 
 2. Real Club 19-2 
 3. Escuela Fap 15-5 
 4. El Bosque 13-9 
 5. Inmaculada 12-9 
 6. Centro Naval 9-12 
 7. Ejercito 8-14 
 8. San Augustin 6-15 
 9. San Marcos 3-18 
 10. Universitario 1-20 


*****************************************************
  POLAND   


Energa Czarni tab Darnell Hinson - by Eurobasket News
Energa Czarni signed contract with Darnell Hinson (186-G-80, college: Northeastern St.). The 31-year-old guard started the previous season with Polonia Azbud. He tallied 16.3 points, 3.4 boards, 2.9 assists and 2.7 steals per game. The guard participated at 2011 PLK All-Star Game. He was the winner of Three-Point Shootout Contest Winner. In April Darnell Hinson inked deal with Gallitos de Isabela. His stats read 11.5 points, 3.7 assists and 2.7 rebounds per game in BSN. Darnell Hinson had stints in Australia, France, Puerto Rico, Netherlands and Germany before moving to Poland. The guard was named Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie Guard of the Year back in 2006. He also participated at Australian NBL All-Star Game in 2008.



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


Sergio Ramos hurt with Mario Saldanha - by Bruno Baltazar
The portuguese international player Sergio Ramos (200-F-76) said this week that he was hurt with the word of Mario Saldanha the portuguese federation president.
The president accused the player to refuse to play for the national team.He answer this week saying that he retired from the international competitions with the portuguese team 4 years ago,and every year hes name is called to the selection and he doesnt understand the attacks that are being made against him.
He also mention that Mario Palma ,the portuguese coach knows hes reason not to play for the team ,strong personal and family reasons he mention,that doesnt allow him to be commited with the team 100%,the athlet dont want polemics around the team since he want the players to be fully focus on the qualification goal since theres more problems to solve then him in the team.

In www.ojogo.pt

U20: Portugal advanced to the Qualifying Round in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Norway U20-Portugal U20 69:77

Portugal advanced to the Qualifying Round in Sarajevo after the win over Norway in the last day of the Preliminary Round. Portugal needed 77:69 to finish second with 4-1 record. Norway clinched fifth place in the group with 1-4 record.
After being tied at 4:4, Portugal went on a 9-0 run as Carlos Ferreirinho (200-F/G-91) brought 13:4. Miguel Cardoso (182-PG-93) made both free throws at the end of the first period for 27:18 lead. Portugal added 22-17 in the second period for 49:35 at the halftime. Norway meanwhile won the third period 17-16 as Karamo Jawara (200-F-91) reduced to 52:63, but Azevedo and Queiroz made it 68:54. Norway made their last push to catch up and could cut it to 8 points at the end of the game.
Sergio Santos (196-F-92) paced all the winners with 18 points, while Miguel Cardoso, Henrique Sico (192-G-92) and Carlos Ferreirinho notched 11 apiece. Karamo Jawara ended up with 16 points and 14 rebounds in defeat and Atle Ndiaye (193-F-92) posted 12.

Norway U20: Karamo Jawara 16+14 rebs, Atle Ndiaye 12
Portugal U20: Sergio Santos 18, Miguel Cardoso 11, Henrique Sico 11, Carlos Ferreirinho 11


National team is back in Guimaraes - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
Portugal NT is back in Guimaraes, for more trainings and competition. Next weekend, Portugal will meet Iran, Angola and Romania, in an international tournament.

The teams roster had some more changes. Filipe da Silva is back on the team, after being out by injury. Hes ready to play in the Qualifying Round. Bad news are that Jorge Coelho (who was injured in Turkeys tour) and Joao Gomes (199-F-85) are officially out of the team and wont be able to help Portugal in such an important opportunity to play in Eurobasket.



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





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


Angel Garcia heads to Germany on loan - by Eurobasket News
Angel Garcia (210-C/F-88, college: Memphis) will spend next season with the German team LTi Giessen 46ers. The Puerto Rican big guy is sent to Giessen on loan by Unicaja. The Malaga team loaned Garcia last season as well. He was a member of Clinicas Rincon averaging 14.2 points and 6.2 rebounds for 19 games in LEB Gold. Angel Garcia joined Unicaja in 2009 from the University of Memphis. He is active member of the Puerto Rican National Team. Garcia also played for U21, U19 and U18 Puerto Rico in the past.

'I have been observing Angel Garcia for some time and saw him play at the Treviso camp. He fought back from his injury at Memphis and played a good season in the second division in Spain. I am happy that we could get such a talented player. That also was only possible, because Malaga trusts us and loans us him', stressed LTi Giessen 46er coach Bjoern Harmsen.

Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Angel Daniel VASSALLO
  Guaynabo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 22.2
 1. Vassallo, Guaynabo22.2 
 2. Ramos, Quebradillas21.6 
 3. Johnson, Humacao21.2 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon20.8 
 5. Villegas, Coamo19.1 
 6. Ayuso, Arecibo19.0 
 7. Harris, San German18.3 
 8. Randolph, Isabela18.0 
 9. Carmona, Mayaguez17.0 
 10. Pellot-Rosa, San16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shavlik RANDOLPH
  Isabela
  (208-F-83)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Randolph, Isabela12.3 
 2. Harris, San German12.3 
 3. Narvaez, Coamo11.6 
 4. Pruitt, Guaynabo11.3 
 5. Ramos, Quebradillas10.5 
 6. Lloreda, San G.10.0 
 7. Clemente, Mayaguez9.1 
 8. Sweetney, Santurce9.1 
 9. Johnson, Humacao8.5 
 10. Rickert, Bayamon8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Andres RODRIGUEZ
  Arecibo
  (182-PG-81)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Rodriguez, Arecibo6.2 
 2. Brown, Quebradillas5.9 
 3. Rivera, San German5.5 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon5.4 
 5. Clinch, Isabela4.5 
 6. Clemente, Humacao4.4 
 7. Guzman, Guaynabo4.2 
 8. Rivera, Mayaguez4.2 
 9. Bruton, Quebradill.4.1 
 10. Copeland, San G.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Darnell HINSON
  Isabela
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Hinson, Isabela1.8 
 2. Rodriguez, Arecibo1.8 
 3. Rivera, Mayaguez1.6 
 4. Clinch, Isabela1.5 
 5. Mojica, Bayamon1.4 
 6. Hodge, Santurce1.4 
 7. Chaney, Santurce1.3 
 8. Santiago, Santurce1.3 
 9. Lee, Bayamon1.2 
 10. Pellot-Rosa, San1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Kleon PENN
  Humacao
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Penn, Humacao2.6 
 2. Sanchez, Santurce1.9 
 3. Santiago, Arecibo1.9 
 4. Lee, Bayamon1.7 
 5. Aubry, Arecibo1.6 
 6. Randolph, Isabela1.4 
 7. Harris, San German1.4 
 8. Ramos, Quebradillas1.1 
 9. Freije, Coamo1.1 
 10. Shannon, Bayamon1.0 


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


U20: Russia narrowly edge Sweden - by Eurobasket News
Russia U20 - Sweden U20 67:65

Russia posted the second straight win at the U20 European Championship Qualifying Round. They overcame Sweden to climb at 4-0 record in Group E. Sweden slipped at 0-4 record in the ladder.
Russia went on a 10:0 run midway through the opening quarter to post a 23:10 lead. They ensured a 26:18 lead at the first break. Sweden erased the deficit in the second quarter. The Scandinavian side tied things up at 30. Soon Czerapowicz, Nordstrom and Andreas Person (190-G-91) put Sweden in front. But Ruslan Tumanov (190-G-91) capped the first half with a three-pointer as Russia regained advantage 39:38. Russia went on a 12:0 run at the start of the third quarter to boost the margin to 13 points 51:38. Russia entered the fourth frame up by 10 points 58:48. Lindqvist nailed 8 points in a row at the beginning of the fourth quarter to cut the deficit. Andrey Zubkov (205-G/F-91) and Tkachenko maintained the advantage for Russia however Viktor Gaddefors (200-F-92) put Sweden as close as two points 65:67 with 8 seconds remaining. Pavel Antipov (203-F-91) commited a turnover giving Sweden a chance to save the game. But Czerapowicz missed a jumper and Russia had a narrow escape at the end. Andrey Zubkov delivered 13 points, while Ruslan Tumanov added 12 points in the victory. Viktor Gaddefors answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds for Sweden. Andreas Person netted 12 points in defeat.

Russia U20: Andrey Zubkov 13, Ruslan Tumanov 12, Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) 10, Pavel Antipov 10
Sweden U20: Viktor Gaddefors 17, Andreas Person 12


*****************************************************
  SAN MARINO   


U18: San Marino upset Moldova in Arena Domus - by Eurobasket News
San Marino U18-Moldova U18 69:62

San Marino upset Moldova in Arena Domus of Serravalle in the start of the U18 European Championship. The hosts won 69:62 in the five-nation campaign.
Nistor and Moretti were the first players to score for each teams in the start of the game. Gualtieri gave the hosts 13:8 and Beloborodov closed the period at 17:12. San Marino started to increase the lead in the second frame and after 26-16 had 43:28. Ostafiiciuc started the third period from the free throw line and reduced to 13 points. Beloborodov closed the third period at 50:45 and Marcenco reduced to 53:51 but that was all Moldova could do. San Marino won the fourth frame 19-17 to seal the victory.
Gualtieri paced all the winners with 25 points for the first victory. Andrea Merlini (189-F/C-93) and Davide Macina (178-G-93) nailed 12 points each, while Guerra scored 10. Solopa replied with 16 points in the losing effort, Marcenco scored 13, while Ostafiiciuc collected 12 points and 15 rebounds.

San Marino U18: Gualtieri 25, Andrea Merlini 12, Davide Macina 12, Guerra 10
Moldova U18: Solopa 16, Marcenco 13, Ostafiiciuc 12+15 rebs


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


Olin Edrine signs center Vladimir Stimac - by Eurobasket News
Vladimir Stimac (209-C-87, agency: Interperformances) is a new player of Olin Edrine. The Serbian big guy penned a one-year deal with his new club. He arrives to Olin Edrine from CEZ Nymbirk, where he finished last season. He appeared 17 times in Adriatic league with them averaging 6.1 points and 3.5 rebounds. In EuroCup, Stimac added 7 ppg and 5.1 rpg. He also had 6.2 ppg and 3.7 rpg in Czech NBL. Nymburk defended the title and National Cup. Vladimir Stimac started last season with Ventspils, but they parted ways in November. From 2008 to 2010, Sitimac played for Crvena Zvezda. Before that he was a member of Valmiera and Zalgiris. Vladimir Stimac played for the Serbian University, U20 and U18 National Team in the past.

Radnicki Kragujevac grabs Miljan Pavkovic - by Eurobasket News
Miljan Pavkovic (178-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Radnicki Kragujevac. The Serbian outfit announced this very important signing today. Pavkovic heads to Radnicki from Hemofarm, where he spent last four years. He appeared 12 times in EuroCup last season averaging 10.6 points, 2.3 rebounds and 4.1 assists. He also added 8.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 5.2 apg in Adriatic league. In Serbia, Pavkovic collected 10.8 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 5.9 apg. Eurobasket awarded him with Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Domestic Player of the Year -11. He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League 2nd Team -11. Before Hemofarm, Miljan Pavkovic played for Buducnost Podgorica. In the past, he also played for Vojvodina and Zdravlje.

U20: Serbia edge Austria in Classification Round - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U20 - Austria U20 83:64

Serbia recorded the second straight win at the U20 European Championship Classification Round. They shot down Austria to climb at 2-0 record in Group G. Austria in the meantime fell at 1-1 record after the loss. Danilo Andjusic (197-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 16 points and 6 rebounds to lead Serbia in this one.
Serbia opened the game with five straight points and controlled the tempo in the starting frame. They recorded a 23:12 lead at the first intermission. Serbia kept in charge throughout the second quarter. They capped with a 7:0 run to take a 45:29 halftime lead. Serbia did not loosen the grasp in the third frame. They arrived at the final break up by 14 points 64:50. Serbia tipped off the fourth quarter with a 9:0 surge and never looked back en route to the victory. Branislav Djekic (207-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) tallied 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Nemanja Jaramaz (201-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points in the victory. Jozo Rados (203-C-93) responded with 13 points for Austria. Carlos Novas (197-F-92) and Thomas Klepeisz (187-G-91) finished with 10 points apiece in defeat.

Serbia U20: Danilo Andjusic 16, Branislav Djekic 14+10 boards, Nemanja Jaramaz 13
Austria U20: Jozo Rados 13, Carlos Novas 10, Thomas Klepeisz 10


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


U20: Mareks Mejeris leads Latvia past Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U20 - Slovenia U20 89:84

Latvia celebrated the first win at the Qualifying Round of U20 European Championship. They prevailed against Slovenia to improve at 2-2 record in Group E. Slovenia fell at 0-4 record. Mareks Mejeris (207-F-91, agency: Players Group) provided 20 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge.
Mareks Mareks Mejeris notched 7 points in the opening frame as Latvia posted a 21:13 lead at the first break. Latvia cleared off to a 7-point distance in the second term. Butjankovs opened a double-digit lead late in the first half 41:31. Latvia ensured a 44:37 halftime advantage. But Slovenia quickly erased the deficit and soon Klemen Prepelic (191-G-92) pulled his team in front. Slovenia entered the final frame up by five points 68:63. Mareks Mejeris triggered a 16:0 run that put Latvia on top 85:73. Slovenia made a fierce comeback effort cutting the deficit at 3 points 82:85. Lejasmeiers and Antrops hit four free throws in the dying seconds to seal the winning outcome for Latvia. Martins Meiers (206-C-91) notched 18 points and 9 rebounds for Latvia. Ugis Pinete (194-F-91) added 17 points, 5 boards and 5 assists in the victory. Klemen Prepelic answered with 17 points for Slovenia. Alen Omic (213-C-92) answered with 16 points in the loss.

Latvia U20: Mareks Mejeris 20+11 boards, Martins Meiers 18, Ugis Pinete 17
Slovenia U20: Klemen Prepelic 17, Alen Omic 16


*****************************************************
  SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


SOUTHAMERICAN TOURNAMENT U-17 DAY 3 RESULTS - by Victor Garcia
Ecuador got its first victory and sent Paraguay to the bottom of the standings,
Ecuador 65
Paraguay 47

Brazil keep giving an impressive show, blasting Venezuela in its third game and now shares the top with Colombia.
Brazil 100 Demetrio Leonardo 22 pts, Artur Fernandez 13
Venezuela 47 Jesus Medina 12 pts.

Uruguay give the first surprise of the tournament defeating Argentina thanks to a great game of Luciano Parodi.
Uruguay 60 Luciano Parodi 25 pts.
Argentina 38

Colombia arrived to the first place in the standings leaded by the young pivot Tony Trocha, Trocha already among the top scorers and rebounders of the Tournament .
Colombia 66 Tony Trocha 32 pts.
Chile 61 Pablo Barraza 22 pts.


SOUTHAMERICAN TOURNAMENT U-17 DAY 2 RESULTS - by Victor Garcia
Venezuela got its first victory in the tournament defeating Paraguay wich gets its second defeat in a row,Luis Madera leaded the Patriot team.
Venezuela 68 Luis Madera 17 pts.
Paraguay 53

Brazil was too strong for Chile and handled the game easily to get its second victory in the tournament.
Brazil 74 Evandro Ramos 19 pts.
Chile 44

Argentina had a slow first half, but with a powerfull reaction in the second defeated Ecuador.
Argentina 63 Gabriel Deck 12 pts
Ecuador 49.

Colombia got a very important victory defeating the powerhouse Uruguay in a very close game, Colombia just reach a 2 points lead in the final 20 seconds of the game.
Colombia 43
Uruguay 41.


*****************************************************
  SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U17   


Standings (Men)
Standings
1. Brazil3-0
2. Colombia3-0
3. Uruguay2-1
4. Argentina2-1
5. Venezuela1-2
6. Ecuador0-2
7. Paraguay0-2
8. Chile0-3


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


World Military Championship: South Korea open win count in Brazil - by Eurobasket News
South Korea - Cyprus 83:65

South Korea celebrated the first win at the World Military Championship in Brazil. The Asian team prevailed against Cyprus to climb at 1-2 record in Group A. Kim Yong-Hwan (195-F-84) scored 15 points to pace the winners. Cyprus fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
South Korea and Cyprus stayed close throughout the opening period. South Korea posted a 25:23 lead at the first break. The Asian team maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They ensured a 34:32 halftime advantage. The Korean team cleared off to an 8-point distance at the final break 54:46. South Korea tipped off the final quarter on a 15:3 run and never looked back en route to the victory. Gwang Jae Lee provided 14 points for South Korea. Hoon Han Ji added 11 points in the victory. Kyriakos Pantziaros (195-F-91) responded with 17 points for Cyprus. Christos Loizidis (204-C-91) posted 15 points, 6 boards and 3 assists in defeat.

South Korea: Kim Yong-Hwan 15, Gwang Jae Lee 14, Hoon Han Ji 11
Cyprus: Kyriakos Pantziaros 17, Christos Loizidis 15


KCC signs NBA-DL Rookie of the year - by Kevin Campigotto
After much speculation the 2010-2011 KBL Champion KCC Egis have announced their import player for this coming season and it is forward DeShawn Sims (203-F-88, college: Michigan). KCC submitted their application to the KBL on August 18th,

Sims, a 23 year old, 203cm forward was an NBA-D League all-star and won rookie of the year honors. He was also the leading scorer on his University of Michigan team and so he has a solid basketball pedigree. Last year he averaged 20.3 points and 7.7 rebounds in 84 games with the Maine Red Claws in the D-league.

Following the d-league season he joined a team in Puerto Rico but only lasted two months. Interestingly enough he played on the same team as Samsungs new foreigner Peter John Ramos (222-C-85). Sims only averaged 9.7 points per game and was considered a disappointment.

Sims is a good outside shooter who is good at splitting defenders. Hes a bit light at just over 100kg but still has a solid post game having played some center when he was at Michigan. He should be a good complimentary player with Ha Seung Jin because of his enjoyment of playing in the post. His NBA scouting report raved about his ability to crash the boards, especially on the offensive end. This will be a huge plus as Ha often draws double teams and his lack of a consistent post game and soft teach will mean a ton of put back opportunities.

Sims will join KCC in mid-August as with the rest of the foreigner.


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


Angel Garcia heads to Germany on loan - by Eurobasket News
Angel Garcia (210-C/F-88, college: Memphis) will spend next season with the German team LTi Giessen 46ers. The Puerto Rican big guy is sent to Giessen on loan by Unicaja. The Malaga team loaned Garcia last season as well. He was a member of Clinicas Rincon averaging 14.2 points and 6.2 rebounds for 19 games in LEB Gold. Angel Garcia joined Unicaja in 2009 from the University of Memphis. He is active member of the Puerto Rican National Team. Garcia also played for U21, U19 and U18 Puerto Rico in the past.

'I have been observing Angel Garcia for some time and saw him play at the Treviso camp. He fought back from his injury at Memphis and played a good season in the second division in Spain. I am happy that we could get such a talented player. That also was only possible, because Malaga trusts us and loans us him', stressed LTi Giessen 46er coach Bjoern Harmsen.

Valencia add Vitor Faverani - by Eurobasket News
Valencia bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Vitor Faverani (211-C-88). The deal is meant for two seasons with an option for an extra one. The Brazilian centre spent the previous season in Murcia. He tallied 14.9 points, 6.4 boards and 1.1 blocks per game in LEB Gold. Eurobasket.com named Vitor Faverani All-Spanish LEB Gold Centre of the Year. He was also trumped LEB Gold Import Player of the Year. Before joining Murcia Vitor Faverani had stints with Lupo/Araraquara and Unicaja Malaga.


Ruben Portes joins Alcobendas - by Mariano Galindo
Ruben Portes (192-F-81) will remain in EBA league after signing a new contract with Alcobendas. Portes was playing in Torrejon for the last two seasons, where he averaged 12.3 points per game. The 29 years-old shooting guard is the third player who joins Alcobendas this summer, after Pablo Rodrigo y Carlos Arjonilla. Portes is one of the best players in EBA league, where he has been played for the last seasons.

U20: Spain pile up scalps in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Spain U20 - Germany U20 73:58

Spain registered the fifth straight win at the U20 European Championship. This time the hosts overcame Germany to improve at 4-0 record in Group F. Germany slipped at 2-2 record after the loss.
Spain jumped in front from the first minutes and maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter. They posted a 17:12 lead after ten minutes. Germany opened the second frame on an 8:2 rally to pull in front. Soon the visitors grabbed a 28:21 advantage. Germany arrived at the big break up by two points 30:28. The lead changed hands for several times early in the third period but Spain then went on an 11:1 surge to build a 51:42 advantage. Germany got within three points early in the final quarter but Josep Franch (194-PG-91) and Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) quickly silenced the opponents as Spain cruised to the victory at the end. Nikola Mirotic tallied 22 points and 12 boards for Spain. Josep Franch added 14 points in the win. Daniel Theis (207-C-92) answered with 11 points for Germany. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F/G-92) netted 10 points in defeat.

Spain U20: Nikola Mirotic 22+12 boards, Josep Franch 14, Joan Sastre Morro (201-F-91) 12
Germany U20: Daniel Theis 11, Mathis Monninghoff 10


Lagun Aro GBC officially hires Alfonso Alonso as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Alfonso Alonso became a new Head Coach of Lagun Aro GBC. The Spanish specialist penned a two-year deal with the club. Most recently Alonso worked with DKV Joventut. He was their Head Coach from 2008 until March of 2010. Before that, Alfonso Alonso worked three years as Assistant Coach of Joventut. They won the ULEB Cup in 2008. That same year, DKV became the winner of Copa del Rey. In 2006, the team won the title in FIBA EuroCup. Lagun Aro GBC finished last season as No.14 in ACB. They had 12-22 record and failed to reach the Playoffs.

Estudiantes and coach Luis Casimiro part ways - by Eurobasket News
Luis Casimiro is no longer a Head Coach of MMT Estudiantes Madrid. Two sides terminated their deal today. Estu thanked Casmiro for his work and wished him luck in the future. Luis Casimiro took over the Students three years ago. He helped them reach the EuroCup Quarterfinals this season. In ACB, Estu ended as No.12 with 16-18 record. They failed to reach the Playoffs. In 2009, Estu reached Copa Del Rey Semifinals. Before Estudiantes, Luis Casimiro worked four years with Fuenlabrada. They were LEB1 champions in 2005. Casmiro also has experience from Alicante, Pamesa, Caceres and Manresa. He was the ACB champion with Manresa in 1998.

Alicante keeps coach Txus Vidorreta - by Eurobasket News
Txus Vidorreta will lead Alicante for at least one more season. They penned a one-year contract extension today. Vidorreta took over the team in November of 2010. He helped them avoid relegation last season as they finished as No.16. Alicante registered 9-25 record and it seems it was enough for Vidorreta to secure an extension. Txus Vidorreta worked with Bilbao from 2001 until the January of 2010. He helped them reach EuroCup Semifinals two years ago. In 2008, Bilbao played in the Copa del Rey Semifinals. A year before that, Bilbao reached ACB Supercup Finals. Vidorreta led Bilbao to promotion from LEB1 to ACB in 2004. He was named Eurobasket All-Spanish LEB Coach of the Year -04.

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


U20: Russia narrowly edge Sweden - by Eurobasket News
Russia U20 - Sweden U20 67:65

Russia posted the second straight win at the U20 European Championship Qualifying Round. They overcame Sweden to climb at 4-0 record in Group E. Sweden slipped at 0-4 record in the ladder.
Russia went on a 10:0 run midway through the opening quarter to post a 23:10 lead. They ensured a 26:18 lead at the first break. Sweden erased the deficit in the second quarter. The Scandinavian side tied things up at 30. Soon Czerapowicz, Nordstrom and Andreas Person (190-G-91) put Sweden in front. But Ruslan Tumanov (190-G-91) capped the first half with a three-pointer as Russia regained advantage 39:38. Russia went on a 12:0 run at the start of the third quarter to boost the margin to 13 points 51:38. Russia entered the fourth frame up by 10 points 58:48. Lindqvist nailed 8 points in a row at the beginning of the fourth quarter to cut the deficit. Andrey Zubkov (205-G/F-91) and Tkachenko maintained the advantage for Russia however Viktor Gaddefors (200-F-92) put Sweden as close as two points 65:67 with 8 seconds remaining. Pavel Antipov (203-F-91) commited a turnover giving Sweden a chance to save the game. But Czerapowicz missed a jumper and Russia had a narrow escape at the end. Andrey Zubkov delivered 13 points, while Ruslan Tumanov added 12 points in the victory. Viktor Gaddefors answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds for Sweden. Andreas Person netted 12 points in defeat.

Russia U20: Andrey Zubkov 13, Ruslan Tumanov 12, Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) 10, Pavel Antipov 10
Sweden U20: Viktor Gaddefors 17, Andreas Person 12


Solna Vikings trio of foreigners signed - by Andreas Eriksson
Solna Vikings have signed three foreigners for the upcoming season. As standard by coach Torbjrn Gherke he signed three players from agent Chris Warren (agency: Warren Sports International) after visiting the USA to scout his players, which has been very succesfull for Gherke when coaching Sdertlje in the past. This year he decided to sign with PG Stephen McDowell (180-G-85, college: Chattanooga), Forward Avery Jukes (203-F, college: Butler) and Aaron Ellis (205-F-87, college: Wichita St.) (who also holds a German passport, making him a bosman). McDowell has pro experience while Jukes and Ellis will make their first apperances at the Pro Circuit for Solna this season.

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


Taiwan's 18-man roster for 2011 William Jones Cup - by Chris Wang
Taiwan released its final 18-man roster for the 2011 William Jones Cup invitational tournament Tuesday.

All core players, including four players spending last season overseas, except 202cm forward Tien Lei are on the final roster.

Taiwan NT is scheduled to leave for Zhejiang, China on July 21 for a five-day training trip and return to Taipei on July 26 to prepare for the 2011 William Jones Cup.

A total of nine teams entered the men's competition, which will be held from Aug. 6-14 at Sinjhuang Stadium, New Taipei City,

Yang Ching-min, 188cm, 1984/01/22, 27, TB
Wu Tai-hao, 202cm, 1985/02/07, 26, TB
Chen Shih-nian, 180cm, 1984/04/08, 27, TB
Ho Shou-cheng, 196cm, 1983/02/15, 28, TB
Doug Creighton, 195cm, 1985/03/07, 26, TB
Hung Chih-shan, 176cm, 1985/07/05, 25, PY
James Mao, 196cm, 1982/11/16, 28, PY
Chien Chia-hung, 197cm, 1987/03/06, 24, PY
Lu Cheng-ju, 194cm, 1986/08/23, 24, Yulon
Chen Shun-hsiang, 190cm, 1985/05/02, 26, BOT
Su Yi-chieh, 182cm, 1987/01/28, 24, TM
Lee Hsueh-lin, 175cm, 1984/01/31, 27, Beijing (China)
Tseng Wen-ting, 202cm, 1984/07/06, 26, Osaka (Japan)
Lin Chih-chieh, 192cm, 1982/06/11, 28, Zhejiang (China)
Chen Hsin-an, 195cm, 1980/07/01, 30, Dong Guan (China)
Jet Chang, 192cm, 1988/12/27, 22, BYU-Hawaii (US)
Chou Po-chen, 196cm, 1990/08/08, 20, Taiwan Normal University
Chou Yi-hsiang, 194cm, 1991/02/04, 20, Salt Lake CC (US)

Head coach: Chou Jun-san, Taiwan Beer
Assistants: Hsu Chin-tse, Pure Youth; Liu Hwa-lin, Taiwan Beer
Technical Adviser: Bob Hill

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


Olin Edrine signs center Vladimir Stimac - by Eurobasket News
Vladimir Stimac (209-C-87, agency: Interperformances) is a new player of Olin Edrine. The Serbian big guy penned a one-year deal with his new club. He arrives to Olin Edrine from CEZ Nymbirk, where he finished last season. He appeared 17 times in Adriatic league with them averaging 6.1 points and 3.5 rebounds. In EuroCup, Stimac added 7 ppg and 5.1 rpg. He also had 6.2 ppg and 3.7 rpg in Czech NBL. Nymburk defended the title and National Cup. Vladimir Stimac started last season with Ventspils, but they parted ways in November. From 2008 to 2010, Sitimac played for Crvena Zvezda. Before that he was a member of Valmiera and Zalgiris. Vladimir Stimac played for the Serbian University, U20 and U18 National Team in the past.

Alican Guney joins Antalya - by Eurobasket News
Alican Guney (194-G-89) will continue his career in Antalya. They signed a one-year deal today. Guney heads to his new club from Selcuk, where he finished 2010/11 season. He appeared 17 times for them in TB2L averaging 2.8 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.2 assists. Selcuk reached the Semifinals. Guney started last season with Olin Edrine, but they parted ways in December. Alican Guney played for TED Istanbul in 2009/10 season. He had 10.3 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 2.2 apg for them in 15 games. Before that, he spent one year with Galatasaray. Guney also has experience from Fenerbahce Ulker. In the past, Alican Guney played for the Turkish U20 and U16 National Team.

Turkish club Besiktas no longer after Kobe Bryant, says report - by Eurobasket News
The Turkish team Besiktas has officially placed a hold on their pursuit of Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78), according to overseas reports. As of Monday night, Turkey's NTV Sport reported that the team's available basketball funds have been siphoned off by a match-fixing scandal that is tearing across the Turkish soccer landscape.

Any further acquisitions by Besiktas will be reliant on procuring an affluent new team sponsor, according to NTV Sport. Though, Bryant's sponsorship through Turkish Airlines does add an interesting outside caveat to the discussions.

Before the onset of the scandal, the Turkish club was in talks for a contract that would pay Bryant a monthly salary of $500,000. However, the Lakers' All-Star was said to have been holding out for an estimated salary of $1 million per month.

Besiktas famously signed New Jersey Nets point guard Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Illinois) earlier this month. Williams' contract is reported to pay him $5 million over two years.

Courtesy of www.sbnation.com

Turkey U16 triumps in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U16-Estonia U16 89:53

Turkey U16 triumphs in Kaunas at the International Tournament with 4 teams. The team won all three games including the last one over Estonia 89:53.
Turkey opened the game with 12-6 and grabbed easy 28:11 at the end of the first frame. The board showed 36-14 after 15 minutes of the game and 43:21 at the halftime. Turkey reached 53:34 after 35 minutes and winning the third period 24-15 grabbed 67:36 deficit. After 22-17 in the last quarter Turkey increased to the final result.
Mert Cevik and Okben Ulubay stepped up with 13 points each, while Emircan Kosut (209-C-95) and Ayberk Guleryuz (207-C/F-95) scored 12 apiece. Sander Kruus replied with 9 points in the losing case and Rain Koort (194-G/F-95) netted 8.

Turkey U16: Mert Cevik 13, Okben Ulubay 13, Emircan Kosut 12, Ayberk Guleryuz 12
Estonia U16: Sander Kruus 9, Rain Koort 8


Banvit signs deal with Serkan Erdogan - by Eurobasket News
Banvit announced signing of a one-year deal with Serkan Erdogan (190-G-78, agency: 1x1 Sports). The experienced guard heads to his new club from Besiktas ColaTurka, where he finished last season. He joined Besiktas in January registering 14 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 4 apg in 14 TBL games. Erdogan started last season with Spanish Alicante. He had 11.3 ppg and 1.3 apg in 14 games, after what they parted ways. Erdogan played for Alicante also in 2009/10. Actually, he joined them in March and averaged 10.7 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 2.2 apg for 6 games. From 2008 to 2010, Serkan Erdogan played for Turk Telekom. Before that he spent one season with Efes Pilsen and two with Tau Ceramica. Erdogan also has experience from Ulker, Tofas and Tuborg. He played for the Turkish National Team from 1999 to 2011 and later from 2004 to 2006.

U20: Turkey come from behind to silence Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U20 - Ukraine U20 64:61

Turkey enjoyed the first win at the Qualifying Round of U20 European Championship. They eked out a tough victory over Ukraine to climb at 1-3 record in Group F. Sertac Sanli (212-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 18 points to lead the effort. Ukraine suffered the second straight loss in the group action and fell at 0-4 record. Turkey opened the game with six points in a row but Ukraine turned things around pretty quickly and arrived at the first break up by 6 points 21:15. Ukraine stayed in charge throughout the second frame. Furkan Aldemir (207-F-91) and Sertac Sanli managed to get Turkey within one point 35:36 at halftime. Ukraine opened the second half on a 7:0 run and rallied to a 51:44 advantage at the final intermission. Turkey got within two points following a 5:0 spurt at the start of the fourth quarter. Ukraine boosted the margin back to 8 points with under five minutes remaining. Can Mutaf (193-G-91) and Sertac Sanli drained back-to-back three-pointers and Koksal followed with a layup as Turkey denied the deficit 59:59. Furkan Aldemir put Turkey in front 60:59 with under three minutes to go. Lebedintsev answered with a jumper but Sertac Sanli connected from the arc to secure a 63:61 lead for Turkey. Sertac Sanli followed several misses from Ukrainian players with a free throw and Turkey clinched the victory. Furkan Aldemir netted 16 points and pulled down 7 rebounds, while Can Mutaf had 14 points in the win. Maksym Sandul (207-C-91) answered with 14 points and 12 boards for Ukraine. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) and Oleksandr Mishula (187-G-92) nailed 9 points each in defeat.

Turkey U20: Sertac Sanli 18, Furkan Aldemir 16, Can Mutaf 14
Ukraine U20: Maksym Sandul 14+12 boards, Vyacheslav Bobrov 9, Oleksandr Mishula 9


Simas Jasaitis joins Turk Telekom - by Baha Kurtulus
Turk Telekom signed with an important name beside Kaspars Kambala and Darius Washington.

Turk Telekom Ankara agreed terms with Lithuanian small forward Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) for the next season. He also represents the Lithuania national basketball team.
He played in Turkey for Galatasaray Cafecrown Istanbul, where he averaged 16.5 points and 6.3 rebounds in 12 Eurocup contests, 13.6 points and 6.0 rebounds in 29 Turkish League games.
He was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Honorable Mention and All-Bosmans Team in 2010
He played last season in Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius, he scored 9.1 points and 3.7 rebounds per game.

( Source : www.megabasket.net )



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


New Owner Excited About Summer Development - by Travis McAvene
The UBA recently expanded five franchises to Northeast
Ohio for the 2011-2012 season. The Southeast Hoopstars, Ohio Racers, Buckeye Blazers, Cleveland
Rams, and the Midwest Magic are now owned by Charles Nickens. 'We expect big things out of the
Cleveland franchises this upcoming season with talented players such as Matt Smith, Edlonzo
Rowell, and Dave Brown. Cleveland is also proud to announce that the UBA's Reggie Harwell has been selected to be in the upcoming NBADL
draft. 'Recently, Ethan Bradshaw had a good camp at the Harts Camp in Las Vegas
averaging 15 points per game, said Nickens. 'The UBA also expects big things from
Clevelands Tony Smith this week at the ESL in Houston, Texas.


Standings
UBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Southeast H. 26-4 
 2. Cleveland V. 23-5 
 3. Columbus C. 10-14 
 4. Colonial F. 6-21 
 5. NE Air Soul 2-26 
Southern
 1. S.Generals 35-5 
 2. GIE Morrow D. 31-14 
 3. Atlanta A. 21-11 
 4. Georgia L. 10-24 
 5. St.Mountain H. 3-25 
Western
 1. C.Texas C. 26-6 
 2. Tennessee D. 25-11 
 3. Norman E. 23-8 
 4. DFW Warriors 16-14 
 5. Austin K. 15-13 
D-League
 1. Irie M. 0-0 
 2. Proline 0-0 
 3. Team Japan 0-0 
Travel Teams
 1. Columbus Crush 9-2 
 2. Dallas Star 8-23 
 3. Oklahoma S. 1-28 
 4. KC Lakers 0-0 
 5. Nashville B. 0-16 
 6. Metro Atlanta 0-19 


*****************************************************
  UKRAINE   


Darrel Mitchell is back in Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Darrel Mitchell (180-G-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: LSU) is coming back in Ukraine. The 27-year-old guard has agreed on terms of contract with Khimik Yuzny. Last season Darrel Mitchell spent in Belgium. He played for Oostende. Darrel Mitchell averaged 13.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.3 steals per game in EuroChallenge. In Belgium League his stats read 11.7 points, 4.0 assists, 2.1 rebounds and 1.7 steals per appearance. The guard played for Khimik Yuzny in 2009/10 season. His stats read 18.3 points, 5.4 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game in Superleague. Mitchell also posted 21.3 points, 5.7 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 1.6 steals per EuroChallenge appearance that season. Darrel Mitchell also had stints in Cyprus, Lithuania, France and Turkey. He was named into All-Cyprus League 1st Team in 2009. Darrel Mitchell participated at Turkish League All-Star Game in 2007.


U20: Turkey come from behind to silence Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U20 - Ukraine U20 64:61

Turkey enjoyed the first win at the Qualifying Round of U20 European Championship. They eked out a tough victory over Ukraine to climb at 1-3 record in Group F. Sertac Sanli (212-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 18 points to lead the effort. Ukraine suffered the second straight loss in the group action and fell at 0-4 record. Turkey opened the game with six points in a row but Ukraine turned things around pretty quickly and arrived at the first break up by 6 points 21:15. Ukraine stayed in charge throughout the second frame. Furkan Aldemir (207-F-91) and Sertac Sanli managed to get Turkey within one point 35:36 at halftime. Ukraine opened the second half on a 7:0 run and rallied to a 51:44 advantage at the final intermission. Turkey got within two points following a 5:0 spurt at the start of the fourth quarter. Ukraine boosted the margin back to 8 points with under five minutes remaining. Can Mutaf (193-G-91) and Sertac Sanli drained back-to-back three-pointers and Koksal followed with a layup as Turkey denied the deficit 59:59. Furkan Aldemir put Turkey in front 60:59 with under three minutes to go. Lebedintsev answered with a jumper but Sertac Sanli connected from the arc to secure a 63:61 lead for Turkey. Sertac Sanli followed several misses from Ukrainian players with a free throw and Turkey clinched the victory. Furkan Aldemir netted 16 points and pulled down 7 rebounds, while Can Mutaf had 14 points in the win. Maksym Sandul (207-C-91) answered with 14 points and 12 boards for Ukraine. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) and Oleksandr Mishula (187-G-92) nailed 9 points each in defeat.

Turkey U20: Sertac Sanli 18, Furkan Aldemir 16, Can Mutaf 14
Ukraine U20: Maksym Sandul 14+12 boards, Vyacheslav Bobrov 9, Oleksandr Mishula 9


*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


U18: Wales wins European Championship opener - by Eurobasket News
Gibraltar U18-Wales U18 29:95

Wales wins U18 European Championship opener in San Marino. The team smashed Gibraltar 95:29 to open 5-teams campaign.
Wales opened the game with 9-0 run and of course never looked behind. Sawyer scored the first points for Gibraltar and Andrews closed the first frame at 23:4. In the second period Wales erupted with 36-6 in the next 10 minutes and reached massive 59:10 at the halftime. Rothwell and Seaman opened the third period for the winners and Levy closed the 12-0 run at 70:10. Lloyd was the last the third period at 78:14. For Gibraltar the last quarter was the most productive as they scored 15 points and got 17. Khan was the one to set up the final score in the game.
Lloyd poured in 15 points and Levy netted 11. Jennifer Ridgway and Rothwell followed them with 10 points each. Mansfield and Sawyer answered with 7 points apiece in the losing effort.

Gibraltar U18: Mansfield 7, Sawyer 7
Wales U18: Lloyd 15, Levy 11, Jennifer Ridgway 10, Rothwell 10


Standard Life GB U20 Men picked up their third consecutive victory, not enough to advance - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain U20-Czech Republic U20 85:74

Standard Life GB U20 Men picked up their third consecutive victory in the European Championship with an 85:74 win against Czech Republic. That was not however enough to advance to the Qualifying Round. The Czechs finished on top with 4-1 record despite the first loss in the tournament.
Great Britain needed the win more, but they also needed Portugal to lose their game in order to advance. Ryan Richards (212-C/F-91, agency: Interperformances) scored for 28:18 and Alasdair Fraser (201-F/C-92) closed the first half at 47:35. Czech Republic was far to give up and erupted with 19-8 for 54:55 after thirty minutes. Standard Life GB U20 Men however won the last stanza 30-20 and grabbed the third straight win.
Ryan Richards stepped up with 27 points and Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) notched 19. Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) scored 15, while Alasdair Fraser added 13. Michal Sotnar (190-PG-92) and Ondrej Balvin (215-C-92) responded with 12 points each in the losing case as the latter also grabbed 12 boards.

Great Britain U20: Ryan Richards 27, Devon Van Oostrum 19, Alex Marcotullio. 15, Alasdair Fraser 13
Czech Republic U20: Michal Sotnar 12, Ondrej Balvin 12+12 rebs


Holmes Re-Signs For Riders - by Paul Nilsen

Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders coach Rob Paternostro has re-signed 69 centre Frank Holmes (206-F-84, college: UAB), as his team building continues for the new season.

Riders originally signed 27 years old Holmes at the end of March, after a season ending injury to LaTaryl Williams, and the big man did a solid job for the Riders averaging 15 points and 8 rebounds a game. He was the leading scorer in the quarter final second leg playoff game at the Champions Mersey Tigers, with 25 points, a game Riders lost in the final minute 92 to 90.

Prior to that last season, Holmes was at Inter Brataslavia in the Slovakian League, averaging 13 points and 6 rebounds a game. He joined Milton Keynes Lions in the 2009/10 season, after graduating from the University of Alabama, and averaged 14 points and 7 rebounds a game with the Lions.

Paternostro was happy to get Holmes back, Frank joined us late last season, but we were all impressed, not just by his talent, but also the way he fit in with the team. He was very effective in many ways, but it is his energy I particularly like, and it proved contagious at times.

Frank is only a relatively young player and so I think he can develop his game, but he also has good BBL experience now, and that, with the continuity aspect, was important. Frank also made it clear right from the time he arrived he was keen to stay with our programme, and that was also important to me. I believe he will do very good things for us next season.



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


Nacional and Larranaga will play for a second promotion - by Hector Lopez
Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) scored 28 points and grabbed 19 rebounds leading Larranaga to beat Goes 75-62 in the semifinal game for a promotion to the Uruguayan League 2012. Larranaga will now play against Nacional for the best of three and the winner will join Tabare to be promoted to the main Uruguayan tournament. Also for Larranaga Santiago Moglia (196-F-89) netted 16 points. For Goes Federico Haller (198-F-88) scored 12 points with 12 rebounds and Andres Borroni (187-G-87) scored 12 points. The final games will be played July 22th, July 25th and if needed July 27th.

*****************************************************
  UZBEKISTAN   


World Military Championship: Lithuania stay perfect with win over Uzbekistan - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Uzbekistan 86:53

Lithuania posted the third consecutive victory at the World Military Championship. They eased past Uzbekistan for 3-0 record on top of Group B. Henrikas Rumsa (190-G-82) nailed 20 points to lead the charge. Uzbekistan fell at 1-2 record after the defeat.
Lithuania stunned their opponents early on. The Baltic team outgunned Uzbekistan 21:7 in the starting frame. Lithuania mounted the pressure in the second quarter. They cleared off at 27-point distance at halftime 45:18. The Baltic team quickly boosted the margin to 30 points in the third period and never looked back on the way to the victory. Tomas Lukosevicius (200-C-80) provide 16 points, while Eimantas Narusis (201-F-86) added 12 points and 11 rebounds for Lithuania. Aleksandr Kozlov (202-F-82) answered with 15 points for Uzbekistan. Gennadiy Zinovyev (195-F-84) had 9 points and 8 rebounds in the losing effort.

Lithuania: Henrikas Rumsa 20, Tomas Lukosevicius 16, Eimantas Narusis 12+11 boards
Uzbekistan: Aleksandr Kozlov 15, Gennadiy Zinovyev 9


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


Latinbasket.com All-Venezuelan LPB 2011 Awards - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- These are Venezuela's LPB 2011 Awards provided by your Latinbasket.com correspondants:

Player of the Year: Heissler Guillent (186-G-86) of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Guard of the Year: Heissler Guillent of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Forward of the Year: Blake Walker (196-G/F-82) of Gigantes de Guayana
Center of the Year: Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Newcomer of the Year: David Cubillan (183-PG-87) of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Most Improved Player of the Year: Heissler Guillent of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Imported Player of the Year: Blake Walker of Gigantes de Guayana
Domestic Player of the Year: Heissler Guillent of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Defensive Player of the Year: Heissler Guillent of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Coach of the Year: Carl Herrera of Gigantes de Guayana

1st Team
Heissler Guillent of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Blake Walker of Gigantes de Guayana
Robert Gleen (201-F/C-89) of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Jack Michael Martinez of Cocodrilos de Caracas

2nd Team
David Cubillan of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) of Marinos de Anzoategui
John Millsap (198-F-82) of Guaros de Lara
Alejandro Salas Flores (202-F-81) of Toros de Aragua
Richard Lugo (209-C-73) of Bucaneros de La Guaira

All-Domestic Players Team
Heissler Guillent of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Rafael Guevara of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Oscar Torres of Marinos de Anzoategui
Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) of Marinos de Anzoategui
Richard Lugo of Bucaneros de La Guaira

All-Imports Players Team
Paul Stoll (178-G-85) of Gigantes de Guayana
Carl Elliott (193-G-83) of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Blake Walker of Gigantes de Guayana
Robert Gleen of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Jack Michael Martinez of Cocodrilos de Caracas

All-Defensive Players Team
Heissler Guillent of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Rafael Guevara of Bucaneros de La Guaira
Blake Walker of Gigantes de Guayana
Luis Bethelmi (200-C-86) of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Richard Lugo of Bucaneros de La Guaira

All-Newcomers Team
David Cubillan of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Morris Sierraalta (190-G/F-87) of Gaiteros del Zulia
Jorge Rondon (193-G/F-90) of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Jaime Finol (195-F-87) of Gaiteros del Zulia
Nestor Colmenares (203-F-87) of Cocodrilos de Caracas

Gregory Vargas and Edgar Lugo to Reales de La Vega in Dominican Republic - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan players Gregory Vargas (182-PG-86) and Edgar Lugo (189-G-82) belong to Reales de La Vega in the recently founded Liga Nacional de Baloncesto (LNB) of Dominican Republic, which has replaced Lidoba as the top league in the country.

Vargas won the LPB 2011 championship with Marinos de Anzoategui and spent last season as an imported reinforcement player for Angeles de Puebla in Mexico's LNBP. He will play his first match tonight alongside Terrance Gamble (208-C-83), as they were selected to replace Kevin Swinton (203-F) and Andre Hardwick (201-F/C-83) in the active roster.

Meanwhile, Lugo played for Guaros de Lara in the LPB 2011 season after arriving in a trade from Marinos de Anzoategui which involved Carlos Morris (194-G-76). Lugo scored 8 points with 3 assists in a defeat against Huracanes in extra time, 110-105, while he went scoreless in a victory over Indios, 69-63. He also has the Dominican Republic passport, so he doesn't play as an imported player.




Venezuela's Senior NT starts training sessions in La Guaira - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuela's Senior National Team started its training sessions at Jose Maria Vargas Dome of La Guaira, Vargas, with 9 of the 19 players selected by the Venezuelan Basketball Federation (FVB) and the new head coach, American Eric Musselman .

Musselman, who got injured last week back home, did not make it in time for the first practice, which was commanded by assistant coaches Brad Greenberg and Henry Paruta and was attended by point guards Heissler Guillent (186-G-86, agency: Paris Global Sports) and Dwight Lewis (196-G-87, agency: Impact Basketball, college: USC), forwards Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85), Michael Flores (192-G-85), Luis Valera (201-F-88, college: UTPA), Robert Yriarte (201-F-89) and Jhon Romero (199-F-85) and centers Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80) and Gregory Echenique (205-C-90), an NCAA starter for Division I team Creighton Blue Jays.

NBA guard Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, college: Maryland), of the Memphis Grizzlies and PF Hector Romero (202-F/C-80, college: New Orleans) were both excused in advance, since Vasquez is supposed to arrive on Wednesday from the United States and Romero is still recovering from a knee surgery and is not supposed to join the team yet.

The other eight absent players, David Cubillan (183-PG-87, college: Marquette), Rafael Perez (193-G/F-82, agency: Paris Global Sports), Miguel Marriaga (208-C-84), Luis Bethelmi (200-C-86), Nestor Colmenares (203-F-87, college: Campbellsville), Windi Graterol (204-C-86), Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) and former NBA player Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances) did not contact any members of FVB to warn that they would not make it to the first practice, so the reasons why they didn't come are still unknown.

Musselman will coach his first double session on Tuesday (July 19th).

Venezuela will play a couple of friendly matches against Japan next July 29th and July 30th, possibly in Caracas or Puerto La Cruz. A Super 4 Tournament will be played in La Guaira from August 5th till the 7th with Brazil, Cuba and Panama as the invited countries.

Venezuela's Senior NT is supposed to play in another couple of Super 4 Tournaments in Montevideo, Uruguay and Buenos Aires, Argentina, prior to their participation in the 2011 FIBA Americas Pre Olympic Tournament of Mar del Plata, Argentina, which grants two direct spots in the Olympic Games of London 2012 and additional three spots for a World Pre-Olympic Qualy Tournament.





Nestor Salazar will coach Centauros de Apure in LNB 2011 - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan head coach Nestor Salazar has been appointed by the general management of Centauros de Apure as their new head coach for the upcoming edition of Liga Nacional de Baloncesto (LNB) 2011.

Salazar has coached the previous three editions of the LNB Finals. He lost in 2008 as the coach of Caciques de Trujillo against Duros de Lara but then started a two-year streak of LNB championships, first taking the 2009 crown for Tiburones de Vargas over Centauros de Apure and then in 2010 with Espartanos de Margarita over Estudiantes de Guarico.

The former coach of Venezuela's Senior NT has also been in the last 7 LPB Finals in a row, winning two (2008, 2010) and loosing five (2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011). He surpassed the 500-victory mark in the recently finished LPB season, in which he lost the Finals against Marinos de Anzoategui a year after he defeated the same team.

In his LNB career, he's won 4 championships, including stints with Guacharos de Maturin and Guerreros de Caracas.

Axiers Sucre will play in Argentina's LNB for Olimpico La Banda - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan PF Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) has been selected by the general management of Club Ciclista Olimpico La Banda as their second imported reinforcement player for the upcoming season of Argentina's Liga Nacional de Baloncesto (LNB), first division basketball.

Sucre, a 31 year-old player, 1.98m tall, will be coached by Gustavo Miravet and recently won the LPB 2011 championship in Venezuela as a member of Marinos de Anzoategui for the sixth time in his pro career (1998, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2009, 2011). He was coached by Argentinian Nestor Garcia .

Known as a tough rebounder and scorer from the mid and long range, Sucre has played before in Argentina but in second division basketball, Torneo Nacional de Ascenso (TNA). Back in the 2008-2009 season, he played for Union de Sunchales and averaged 17.6 points and 8.1 rebounds in 16 games before he had to leave the country due to a familiy matter back home.

In his pro career he's also had the chance to play in leagues of Uruguay and Mexico. The other imported player of the team will be Puerto Rican Alexander David Galindo (198-F-85).

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  WILLIAM JONES CUP   


Taiwan's 18-man roster for 2011 William Jones Cup - by Chris Wang
Taiwan released its final 18-man roster for the 2011 William Jones Cup invitational tournament Tuesday.

All core players, including four players spending last season overseas, except 202cm forward Tien Lei are on the final roster.

Taiwan NT is scheduled to leave for Zhejiang, China on July 21 for a five-day training trip and return to Taipei on July 26 to prepare for the 2011 William Jones Cup.

A total of nine teams entered the men's competition, which will be held from Aug. 6-14 at Sinjhuang Stadium, New Taipei City,

Yang Ching-min, 188cm, 1984/01/22, 27, TB
Wu Tai-hao, 202cm, 1985/02/07, 26, TB
Chen Shih-nian, 180cm, 1984/04/08, 27, TB
Ho Shou-cheng, 196cm, 1983/02/15, 28, TB
Doug Creighton, 195cm, 1985/03/07, 26, TB
Hung Chih-shan, 176cm, 1985/07/05, 25, PY
James Mao, 196cm, 1982/11/16, 28, PY
Chien Chia-hung, 197cm, 1987/03/06, 24, PY
Lu Cheng-ju, 194cm, 1986/08/23, 24, Yulon
Chen Shun-hsiang, 190cm, 1985/05/02, 26, BOT
Su Yi-chieh, 182cm, 1987/01/28, 24, TM
Lee Hsueh-lin, 175cm, 1984/01/31, 27, Beijing (China)
Tseng Wen-ting, 202cm, 1984/07/06, 26, Osaka (Japan)
Lin Chih-chieh, 192cm, 1982/06/11, 28, Zhejiang (China)
Chen Hsin-an, 195cm, 1980/07/01, 30, Dong Guan (China)
Jet Chang, 192cm, 1988/12/27, 22, BYU-Hawaii (US)
Chou Po-chen, 196cm, 1990/08/08, 20, Taiwan Normal University
Chou Yi-hsiang, 194cm, 1991/02/04, 20, Salt Lake CC (US)

Head coach: Chou Jun-san, Taiwan Beer
Assistants: Hsu Chin-tse, Pure Youth; Liu Hwa-lin, Taiwan Beer
Technical Adviser: Bob Hill

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  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U19   


Eurobasket.com All-World Championships U19 Awards 2011 - by Greg
All-WC U19 1st Team 2011
#s#
Jonas Valanciunas
Valanciunas
Aleksandar Cvetkovic
Cvetkovic
Hugh Greenwood
Greenwood
Jeremy Lamb
Lamb
Dmitry Kulagin
Kulagin
#e#5

Best Player: Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) of Lithuania
Best Guard: Aleksandar Cvetkovic (185-PG-93) of Serbia
Best Forward: Jeremy Lamb (195-G/F-92) of USA
Best Center: Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) of Lithuania
Best Coach: Kazys Maksvytis of Lithuania

1st Team
PG: Aleksandar Cvetkovic (185-93) of Serbia
G: Hugh Greenwood (190-92) of Australia
G/F: Jeremy Lamb (195-92) of USA
G: Dmitry Kulagin (195-92) of Russia
C: Jonas Valanciunas (210-92) of Lithuania

2nd Team
PG: Raul Neto (186-92) of Brazil
G: Vytenis Cizauskas (190-92) Lithuania
G: Michal Michalak (194-93) of Poland
F: Boris Barac (206-92) of Croatia
F/C: Dario Saric (207-94) of Croatia

3rd Team
PG: Grzegorz Grochowski (176-93) of Poland
F/G: Anthony Drmic (196-92) of Australia
F: Sergey Karasev (200-93) of Russia
F: Dyshawn Pierre (198-93) of Canada
C: Davis Bertans (205-92) of Latvia

Honorable Mention
Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) of Poland
Mitchell Creek (198-F/G-92) of Australia
Guo Ailun (192-G-93) of China
Doug McDermott (200-F-92) of USA
Patric Young (205-F/C-92) of USA
Toni Katic (188-PG-92) of Croatia
Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) of Lithuania
Djordje Drenovac (203-F-92) of Serbia
Lucas Nogueira (213-C-92) of Brazil
Edmunds Dukulis (204-C-92) of Latvia
Kevin Pangos (186-PG-93) of Canada
Kim Giyun (184-G-92) of S.Korea
Assem Ahmed (205-C-92) of Egypt



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Women News

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Canberra Capitals sign Alice Coddington - by Eurobasket News
The Canberra Capitals have announced the signing of former Canberra junior Alice Coddington (177-G-88) for the upcoming season.

Coming off a successful US college career, the former Utah State womens basketball standout, will return to her hometown to begin her professional career with the Capitals.

Capitals head coach Carrie Graf told The Canberra Times that Coddington, 22, would alternate between point and shooting guard.

''Any time we can get a born-and-bred Canberran is a real plus for our program,'' Graf said.

''She's bigger and thicker [than our other guards] and will bring a different dimension to us.''

Coddington left Utah State as the career steals leader, finishing with 236 steals. She also finished third in USU history for most assists with 334. She was also named to the Western Athletic Conference's all-defensive team two-straight seasons.

'I'm excited at the opportunity I was given to not only play in the WNBL, but to also play for Canberra my hometown team, where I can be surrounded with family, Coddington told her former University this week.

I'm also extremely grateful for my time spent at Utah State, and I feel it has really prepared me for the next level.'

Courtesy of WNBL (www.wnbl.com.au)

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  EL SALVADOR - Women  


Survivor wins female league - by Jaime Arevalo
The team named Survivor dominated the 2011 Salvadorean First Division, ending unbeaten thanks to an high level game performed all season over.
The Final Series ended 2-0, and Survivor largely defeated UTEC, 90-56 in Game 1, led by Veronica Sosa (172-G/F-90), who scored 22 points, while Lorena Simon (174-F-81) scored 15 at the losing side. The decisive Game 2 went to Survivor too, with a 68-53 final score. Another time more, Veronica Sosa outstood with 23 points, being also named the Finals MVP. The other best performers at the winning side were import Janny Martinez, and inside player from Honduras, and Esmeralda Lopez, aho resides now in San Francisco, California. The best in UTEC was Lorena Simon, with 24 points

Female League awards - by Jaime Arevalo
Just after the end of female First Division, Veronica Sosa (172-G/F-90) received the Finals MVP Award and some other players were given individualt prizes, as follows:

Season Top Scorer and Best 3pts Shooter: Monica Calderon (178-F-91) (Survivor)
Best Rebounder: Kryssia Urias (188-C-94) (Itexsal)
Best Shot Blocker: Karina Cornejo (Utec)
Best Assist Player: Kenia Campos (168-G-86) (Survivor)
Best Ball Stealer: Aida Funes (168-G-84) (Itexsal)

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  GERMANY - Women  


Wolfenbuettel fills foreigner spots - by Juliane Hoehne
After the leaving of two of their top players, BC Wildcats Wolfenbuettel announced the signing of two new players. Lacey Haughian (188-F-86, college: Black Hills St.) will play her second season in Germany, arriving from BBV Leipzig Eagles. Haugian will add size to the team and bring in international experience. The Power Forward will start her forth season in Europe, after playing one year in Sweden, one in Denmark and last season in Germany. For BBV Leipzig Eagles Haughian scored 13.1ppg and grabbed 7.5rpg, which was forth best in the league.
The second signie is Natasha Harris (177-G-86, college: Boise St.), a 24 year-old Guard, who can run the point as well as the shooting guard position. Last season, Harris played for Fjolnir in the highest league in Iceland, where she scored 25.9ppg and grabbed remarkable 8.4rpg along with 7.3apg and 5.6spg.
Both players will arrive in the first two weeks of August to start the preseason with the rest of the team.

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  ISRAEL - Women  


BNOTH HASHARON SIGN 3 PLAYERS ! - by Gil Goshen

Bnoth Hasharon signed today three usa players:
Kerri Gardin,

2010: Connecticut Sun (WNBA): 24 games: 1.2ppg, 1.2rpg
2010-2011: Elitzur Maclaren Holon (Israel-D1, starting five): 21 games: 16.8ppg, Reb-1 (12.7rpg), 2.3apg, 2.0spg, Blocks-3 (1.2bpg), FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 7.7%, FT: 69.0%, in Mar.'11 moved to CSS LMK BC Sepsi Sfantu Gheorghe (Romania-D1, starting five): 9 games: 12.4ppg, 9.2rpg, 2.8apg, 2.6spg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 42.4%, FT: 68.3%
2011: Connecticut Sun (WNBA), only pre-season
2011: In June signed at Washington Mystics (WNBA).

Kerima Christmas:

2010-2011: Duke (NCAA, starting five): 36 games: 9.5ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 69.9%
2011: drafted by Washington Mystics (WNBA, 2rd (23))
2011: Washington Mystics (WNBA).

Ketia Swanier :

2010: Phoenix Mercury (WNBA): 33 games: 2.8ppg, 1.1rpg, 1.5apg
2010-2011: in Dec.'10 signed at Lotos Gdynia (Poland-PLKK): Euroleague: 1 game: 6pts, 6reb, 1ast; Polish League: 17 games: 12.9ppg, 4.2rpg, Assists-5 (3.8apg), Steals-1 (2.8spg), FGP: 50.4%, 3PT-1 (46.5%), FT: 61.4%
2011: Phoenix Mercury (WNBA).

The coach Dahlia Bushinsky will continue coaching the team. Kerri Gardin (186-F-84, college: Virginia Tech)

ELITZUR RAMLA SIGN 4 PLAYERS ! - by Gil Goshen

The Eurocup champion Elitzur Ramla added to their roster four players:

Ana Turcinovic (190-C-93) ( will play on the bosman position):
2010-2011: ZKK Merkur Celje (Slovenia-SKL, starting five): Slovenian League: 35 games: Score-4 (17.3ppg), Reb-2 (12.2rpg), 1.9spg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT-1 (52.4%), FT: 61.2%; Adriatic League: 23 games: 16.1ppg, Reb-1 (12.2rpg), 1.7spg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 71.6%.

SHAY DORON:
2010-2011: Elitzur Ramla (D1, starting five): EuroCup: 14 games: 15.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.8apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 19.4%, FT: 85.7%; Israeli League: 25 games: 13.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.4apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 82.2%.

KATIA LEVITSKY:
2009-2010: MCM Targoviste (Romania-D1): EuroCup: 5 games: 3.6ppg, 1.2rpg, in Jan.'10 moved to A.S. Ramat Hasharon Electra (Israel-D1): 13 games: 6.2ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 66.7%
2010-2011: Maccabi Ashdod (Israel-D1, starting five): 27 games: 12.0ppg, 6.1rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 69.7%.

ORNIT SHWARTZ:
2009-2010: Maccabi Ashdod (D1, starting five): 27 games: 5.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 34.5%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 56.3%
2010-2011: Elitzur Ramla (D1): played only in EuroCup: 14 games: 1.6ppg, 1.3rpg; Israeli League: 25 games: 4.6ppg, 2.0rpg.

They will join TANISHA WRIGHT and AMANDA JACKSON who signed last week.

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  LATVIA - Women  


Lithuania U16 won over Latvia U16 in the game for the second place - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16-Latvia U16 77:67

Lithuania U16 won over Latvia U16 in the game for the second place in Baltic Cup 2011. The hosts needed 77:67 to finish with 2-1 record, while Latvia dropped to the third with 1-2 record.
Lithuania started with 12-9 and had only 18-17 lead after the first frame. The second frame was the most productive as the hosts reached 33-21 in the start of the next 10 minutes. Latvia meanwhile reduced a bit and the teams left the court at 38:34 at the halftime. Moreover Latvia grabbed 46:44 after 25 minutes, but could not stay in front anymore. Lithuania won the last quarter 20-16 and the game itself.
Edvinas Seskus (188-G-95) top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Pijus Mykolaitis (95) notched 12. Haroldas Saprykinas (188-G-95) ended up with 11 points, whilst Gediminas Zalalis and Ernestas Serkevicius (95) added 8 each. Davis Geks (182-G-95) ended up with 20 points in the losing case, whilst Ivars Rihards Zvigurs (187-G-95) nailed 13.

Lithuania U16: Edvinas Seskus 21, Pijus Mykolaitis 12, Haroldas Saprykinas 11, Gediminas Zalalis 8, Ernestas Serkevicius 8
Latvia U16: Davis Geks 20, Ivars Rihards Zvigurs 13, Armands Ginters (193-F-95) 11


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  LITHUANIA - Women  


Lithuania U16 won over Latvia U16 in the game for the second place - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16-Latvia U16 77:67

Lithuania U16 won over Latvia U16 in the game for the second place in Baltic Cup 2011. The hosts needed 77:67 to finish with 2-1 record, while Latvia dropped to the third with 1-2 record.
Lithuania started with 12-9 and had only 18-17 lead after the first frame. The second frame was the most productive as the hosts reached 33-21 in the start of the next 10 minutes. Latvia meanwhile reduced a bit and the teams left the court at 38:34 at the halftime. Moreover Latvia grabbed 46:44 after 25 minutes, but could not stay in front anymore. Lithuania won the last quarter 20-16 and the game itself.
Edvinas Seskus (188-G-95) top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Pijus Mykolaitis (95) notched 12. Haroldas Saprykinas (188-G-95) ended up with 11 points, whilst Gediminas Zalalis and Ernestas Serkevicius (95) added 8 each. Davis Geks (182-G-95) ended up with 20 points in the losing case, whilst Ivars Rihards Zvigurs (187-G-95) nailed 13.

Lithuania U16: Edvinas Seskus 21, Pijus Mykolaitis 12, Haroldas Saprykinas 11, Gediminas Zalalis 8, Ernestas Serkevicius 8
Latvia U16: Davis Geks 20, Ivars Rihards Zvigurs 13, Armands Ginters (193-F-95) 11


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  PORTUGAL - Women  


Portuguese Women U20 - Something to remember - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
The Portuguese team who got a Silver Medal in the Eurobasket Women U20 Division B is back home and now its time to state what he should remember in the future. The historical competition will be long in our memory and all the people that took part in this tournament shall have our sympathy and acknowledgement.

Michelle Brandao (174-G-91) finishes the competition has the Portuguese best scorer (9th in the best scorers list), the player with more assists in our team and a place in the All-Tournament team ( along with Swedish Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) and Cleopatra Forsman-Goga (180-G-91), the Czech Lenka Bartakova (176-G-91) and the Greek Artemis Spanou (185-F-93), the Tournament MVP).

Maria Joao Andrade (186-F/C-92), the second best scorer, finished with a very good percentage in 2 points field goals made (50%) and is, with Luiana Livulo (187-C-91) (51%), one of the ten sharpest shooters in the tournament.

Livulo has, yet, another great score in Rebounds, finishing as the 4th overall rebounder, with another Portuguese, Daniela Domingues (176-F/G-92), finishing 3rd. Thats a great score to a country who is usually said to have problems in the paint.

The Free Throw line was another scoring point for the Portuguese team. Daniela Domingues, Maria Correia (174-G/F-91) and Telma Fernandes (180-C/F-91) all finished around the 83% success, but only Domingues had enough tries to stand in the best free throw shooters of the tournament (4th).

This said, all the starting five in the team had something to proud of, individually, as the sixth player in the team, Fernandes. Ines Faustino (167-G-92) and Filipa Bernardeco (173-G-92), the seventh and eighth players in the rotation, were also fundamental to keep the rhythm in the teams game.

The even better news about this team is that the majority of the players will have the chance to play another U20 Eurobasket, and this time in Division A. Starters Domingues and Andrade, as Faustino, Bernardeco, Cruz, Silva and Oliveira are all born in 1992, which leaves space to expect a good run in the next year, even if the level will be a lot higher than this season. We must expect opponents of the level of Sweden and Czech Republic, but we now know how to beat them, we must be confident of next year results.

For the players who leave the U20 level, Brandao, Correia and Livulo are already part of our Senior National Team, and we hope that Ana Antunes (185-C-91) and Telma Fernandes can continue their evolution to be solutions of the future in Portuguese Basketball.

A final word to the Technical Staff. Eugenio Rodrigues and Jose Araujo must be proud of the work theyve accomplished in Macedonia, as it is a result of years of dedication. They have now a place in our basketball history, but its important to keep thinking about the future, with dedication and ambition.

For all players and coaches, congratulations for what youve accomplished.






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





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  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO - Women  


Pietra Gay basketballs trailblazer - by Don Farrell
Pietra Gay basketballs trailblazer

Pietra Gay has been a trailblazer for T&T in the field of womens basketball. She was the first Trinidadian to play in the WNBA and has enjoyed an illustrious career playing for several international basketball teams including Spain, Turkey, Greece, Italy, England and Puerto Rico to name a few. Presently, Pietra spends her time between T&T and the USA as a basketball coach, and more importantly, as a mentor to young people.

What drives your passion for basketball?
The love I have for the game of basketball drives me and the young lives I can change along the way.

What do you consider the highlight of your career?
Playing in the WNBA

How did the opportunity playing for the WNBA come along?
After finishing my education at Louisiana State University I was drafted to Houston Comets from 1997-2001

What did you enjoy most about playing for the WNBA?
The atmosphere

What is your state of mind right now?
I am very humble and give praises to the man above everyday, thanking Him for His blessings.

Why did you return to Trinidad after being given such a golden opportunity?
By returning to Trinidad with my knowledge and valuable experience I can help develop the sport of basketball here.

How do you perceive the current state of basketball in this country ?
Very low at this present time.

Given your hectic schedule, are you able to balance a personal life?
Yes. I am able to balance it some how.

What do you admire most in a man?
His Independence.

What is your secret wish?
I wish I could dunk a basketball.

What do people NOT know about Pietra Gay?
That I am very passionate and I love helping people in anyway that I can.

Who would you say is your mentor?
My mentor is God. I walk by FAITH, not by SIGHT.

What is the best advice you have ever received?
Always give 110%, don't ever give less.

What advice would you give those wishing to enter your field?
Play because you love or like the game, the rewards are in them both. Leave everything on the court. This means when you are finished with practice, a game, even your career, make sure you have no regrets when you are ready to walk away.

What is your personal credo?
Believing in myself, Life is too short to be anything but HAPPY. Falling down is a part of LIFE... Getting back up is LIVING!!!

How do you view your success so far?
In life I won, not because I traveled the world or played on this team or with that player or on TV. I won because I played basketball and got a free education. With a college degree I was able to set myself up to do the things I love, which are coaching basketball and helping others to keep their dreams alive... Now that's winning!!!


National women team out pre tournament camp - by Don Farrell
T&T womens basketball team, which was scheduled to leave today for a pre-tournament camp in Puerto Rico in preparation for the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championships, has been grounded because of a lack of funds. The CBC tournament will take place from August 3-7 in the Bahamas. According to Courtney Mc Nish, president of the National Basketball Federation T&T (NBFTT), the federation is in a financial crisis and will be challenged to attend both next months CBC Championships and the Central America and Caribbean (CAC) Games which will be held in Mexico in October. In a television interview with CNC3, Mc Nish said the funds which the Federation hold are to facilitate salaries and manage the cost of zonal competitions as well as other miscelleanous expenses. Weve been advised by our primary or sole benefactor, which is the Sport Company of T&T, which is funded by the Ministry of Sport, that our allocations for this fiscal year have been zipped.

For example, when we started this effort, our allocation balance was $1.6 million, so we were working on that balance, said McNish. We were then advised one and a half weeks ago that our total allocation for the rest of the year is $300,000... so we saw a cut by $1.3 million. If the Ministry of Sport doesnt have the funds or if there were allocations available, it has been sucked up, dried up, taken awayI am not too sure, but we moved from having an allocation balance of $1.6 million. At the beginning of the fiscal year we were advised that our allocation for this year was three million. That was subsequently cut to 2.5 million, Mc Nish explained.

After we treated with issues in our programmes and some of our expenditures for the previous year, at the beginning of this year, we had a balance in our allocation of $1.6 million... and suddenly to hear now that, that has been cut from $1.6 million to $300,000, then you might as well not have a structured system for a sport like this. In this country, unless the government finds, or all the stakeholders find some other mechanism, there will continue to be a reliance on state funding. And that (sport) is in fact an investment that the government is making, he said. McNish admitted that pulling out of a tournament in which plans and fixtures have already been set, may well result in a fine, ban any or all of which may have serious repercussions in respect to the countrys image. The national womens team was scheduled to meet Cuba in the tournament opener on August 3.

If T&T does not appear, then FIBA Americas will certainly penalise us financially, we will get a heavy fine we may even be banned or sanctioned, we may not be able to partake in the tournament for another two years. McNish revealed that all the expenses which the Federation was committed to have to be paid since those services were already delivered. He described the situation as a natural embarrassment to the country, the government and all stakeholders in basketball. None of those activities will or can be accomplished if the $300,000, which we were just advised is available, is not reviewed, said Mc Nish. Mc Nish was appointed president of the NBFTT in August last year.

Andrew Gionnette- Guardian

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  USBA - Women  


Honda will continue as automotive vendor WUSBA during 2011 basketball season - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga., (July 19, 2011) --- American Honda Motor Company, Inc., and the Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) will continue a joint vendor-sponsor relationship for the leagues 2001 fall basketball season. The two companies will join together in a multi-year agreement, set to expire in December 2013. The agreement finalizes Honda status as the Official Automotive supplier to the WUSBA.

'We have our choice of automotive companies, however after many decades of success in the automotive business, Honda is our choice, their association of the WUSBA is perfect,' said Kenneth Green, Executive Vice President, WUSBA. Internationally, Honda has been a long-time supporter of sports throughout the world and in the United States. This relationship between Honda and the WUSBA strengthens our connection with target consumers in the southeastern U.S. market, particularly families, sports fans and multicultural audiences. Additionally, the WUSBAs aggressive expansion plans closely align with Hondas current southern foot print of dealerships.

As the official automotive supplier to the WUSBA, Honda will receive rights to all teams in all sixteen WUSBA cities. The agreement will deliver expanded exposure across the WUSBAs southern footprint for grassroots and regional radio audiences, allowing Honda the ability to continue to enhance consumer experiences around their passion for the sport of basketball. The agreement includes utilization of Hondas fleet of vehicles for WUSBA special events and league operations, player appearances, intellectual property, content generation platforms, regional arena exposure, on-site activation at all WUSBA local team basketball games and the culmination of Hondas entitlement of the WUSBA awards, including full season, the mid season WUSBA Classic All-Star game, the WUSBA Championship Playoff series and the Cora Lee Hunter Memorial Championship. In addition to developing new, unique regional programs in partnership with the WUSBA, Honda will also be a sponsor of existing WUSBA Youth Outreach initiatives including the WUSBA 2011 Season Ticket Extravaganza. 'The WUSBA is excited to partner with American Honda, a company that is synonymous with excellence and innovation,' said Duane Jenkins, WUSBA President and C.E.O., 'American Honda has made a long-term commitment to the sport of basketball in the Southeast United States and we look forward to working together as we both grow our business.'

American Honda joins the WUSBAs corporate family including: Official suppliers, vendors and sponsors such as, Air Tran Airlines, Schwinn Bicycle, Russell Athletic, Outback Steak House, Golden Corral Buffet, Gatorade, Holiday Inn, Visa International and others.

The WUSBA inaugural season is scheduled to begin Saturday August 27, 2011. The WUSBA has sixteen teams, in three divisions, spread out over eight southern states.
American Honda was founded in 1948. The company is involved in the manufacture of automobiles, motorcycles as well as innovations in the aerospace industry. Hondas customer loyalty and customer satiation is legendary. Honda is the sixth largest automotive manufacture in the world and is the fourth largest in the United States.

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

Contact (404) 428-3411


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  WNBA - Women  


Chicago's Fowles, Minnesota's Brunson named Players of the Week - by Eurobasket News
Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) of the Chicago Sky and Rebekkah Brunson (6'3''-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) of the Minnesota Lynx were named the WNBA's Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week, respectively, for regular season games played Monday, July 11 through Sunday, July 17.

Fowles ranked first in the league in rebounds (12.0 rpg) and blocks (5.0 bpg), in addition to being tied for first in scoring (20.5 ppg), while leading the Sky to a 1-1 record. Among Eastern Conference players, she was tied for fifth in field goal percentage (.500 on 16-for-32 shooting) and ranked seventh in free-throw percentage (.818 on 9-for-11 shooting). This marks her first Player of the Week award in 2011 and the third in her four seasons.

On July 13, Fowles recorded a double-double while scoring 21 points and grabbing 13 rebounds to go along with two steals and two blocks in a 72-54 victory over the Tulsa Shock. Three days later, in a 76-68 road-loss against the Atlanta Dream, Fowles notched another double-double with 20 points and 11 rebounds, in addition to establishing a new personal and team record with eight blocks.

This season, Fowles is averaging 20.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, 2.6 blocks and 1.6 steals.

For the week, Brunson led the Lynx to a 2-1 record and finished third in the league in rebounds (10.0 rpg), and among Western Conference players, she ranked third in blocks (1.33 bpg), fourth in field goal percentage (.611 on 22-for-36 shooting) and fifth in scoring (17.3 ppg).

In a 112-105 loss to conference rival Phoenix on July 13, Brunson scored 16 points, grabbed a season-high 16 rebounds and blocked two shots. It was her eighth double-double of the season, and 20th in a Lynx uniform, extending her own franchise career record. She then posted 20 points on 10-for-15 shooting, while securing eight rebounds in an 80-70 victory over Eastern Conference leader Indiana Fever on July 15. The next day, Brunson followed up that performance by totaling 16 points, six rebounds and two blocks to complete Minnesota's sweep of its lone set of back-to-back outings this season in a 69-62 home-victory over the defending WNBA Champion Seattle Storm.

This marks the second time Brunson has won the honor this season, previously for the week of June 12.

Other candidates for WNBA Players of the Week were Los Angeles's Kristi Toliver, New York's Kia Vaughn, Phoenix's Diana Taurasi and Washington's Matee Ajavon.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Sparks put themselves in early hole in 79-69 loss to San Antonio - by Eurobasket News
After allowing the biggest second-half comeback in WNBA history Sunday evening, the Sparks vowed they would regroup.

Then they opened Monday's game against San Antonio shooting one for 12 from the field.

So much for redemption.

The Sparks could never quite recover from the hole and fell to the Silver Stars, 79-69, in front of an announced crowd of 8,818 at Staples Center.

After scoring the first basket of the game, the Sparks never led again.

'We started very slowly,' Sparks Coach Joe Bryant said. 'I was expecting us to play with a little more enthusiasm, a little more energy.'

The Sparks were down, 42-32, at halftime, a margin that would have been much larger had they not scored nearly half of their points from the free-throw line, making 14 of 18.

Their shooting improved in the third quarter and they went on a 10-3 run to reduce the deficit to two at 57-55 heading into the fourth quarter after Jenna O'Hea (6'1''-G/F-87) made a three-pointer.

Natasha Lacy (5'10''-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UTEP) made a driving layup with 8:27 remaining to bring the score to 61-60. Then the Silver Stars showed why they have the best road record in the league and went on a 10-0 run.

'In the second half we were a lot better,' O'Hea said. 'But we still got a lot of improvement to make.'

Reserves Jantel Lavender (6'4''-C-88, college: Ohio St.) and Natasha Lacy led the Sparks with 14 points each. O'Hea had 12 points, including four-of-five shooting from the three-point line.

The Sparks' starters scored only 15 points. Veteran Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, college: USC), the all-time leading scorer in the WNBA, played less than five minutes and was held scoreless for the first time in her 413-game career.

San Antonio's victory puts them ahead 2-1 in their series. San Antonio beat the Sparks, 90-80, on June 24. The Sparks won July 12, 84-74.

That Sparks, who are 6-8, leave on a four-game trip July 26.

Since Joe Bryant was promoted to head coach July 10, the Sparks have won two road games and lost two home games.

'It's crazy that we're playing better on the road than we are at home,' Bryant said with a forced smile.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

Standings
WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Indiana F. 10-5 
 2. New York L. 9-6 
 3. Connecticut S. 8-5 
 4. Chicago S. 7-8 
 5. Atlanta D. 4-9 
 6. Washington M. 3-10 
Western
 1. Phoenix M. 10-4 
 2. Minnesota L. 9-4 
 3. S.Antonio SS 9-4 
 4. Seattle S. 7-6 
 5. L.Angeles S. 6-8 
 6. Tulsa S. 1-14