EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/22/2011

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Men News

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  AUSTRALIA   


Blaze sign new import Mike English - by Eurobasket News
Todays signing of new import Mike English (194-F/G-82, college: UMKC) ticks off two boxes for the Gold Coast Blaze.

Firstly, it moves the club one step closer to a complete roster for Season 2011/12, leaving just one spot left to be filled.

Secondly, it marks the success of the Australian Elite Mens Invitational Camp held in Las Vegas late last month, at which English was scouted.

The Camp, organised by the Gold Coast Blaze, aimed to establish a connection between the NBL and the US basketball scene, particularly in light of the recent NBA lockout.

Blaze Head Coach Joey Wright, a hard man to impress, says the camp met if not exceeded his expectations.

This camp has given our league a lot of recognition, said Wright.

The number of agents contacting me has doubled in the last month.

Were definitely scheduled to return next year I hope to have all the teams involved then.

English, a Missouri native, was one of many players trialled for import selection at the camp, not only by the coaching staff of the Gold Coast Blaze, but also of the Cairns Taipans and Wollongong Hawks.

The 193cm swingman boasts an impressive basketball resume, most recently leading his Slovakian team Astrum Levice to the 2010/11 Eurobasket Championship and taking home the titles of 2010/11 Eurobasket Player of the Year and MVP of the Playoffs Series.

Im definitely excited to have Mike on board this year, said Wright.

With his versatility and leadership I think hell do a great job playing multiple positions on the team.

Known to play anywhere from point guard to power forward, Englishs versatility will undoubtedly add starch to the current Blaze outfit, who are seeking a maiden championship for the club.

The Gold Coast Blaze begin pre-season training on Monday August 1, 2011.

Courtesy of NBL (www.nbl.com.au)

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  AUSTRIA   


U18: Montenegro and Austria open European Championship in Varna - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro U18-Austria U18 97:38

Montenegro won the opener of the U18 European Championship that just started in Varna, Bulgaria. The team destroyed Austria 97:38 setting the tone for a dominating the whole game.
Montenegro started with 15-1 run and of course never looked behind after. Pavic closed the first period at 20:4 and Nemanja Gavranic (200-F-93) increased to 22:4 early in the second. Kapic nailed three for 26:12, while Pajovic sent the teams to the lockers for 42:16. Montenegro continued to dominate the court in the second half and won both periods in it. They increased the lead to 70:23 after thirty minutes as Fatic and Gvozden exchanged the baskets at the end of the frame. Another 27-15 in the last stanza allowed them to propel to the victory in the opener.
Marko Mugosa (197-F-93) led the way with 21 points and Nemanja Gavranic nailed 16. Vasilije Vusovic (188-G-94) finished the game with 14 points, while Danilo Nikolic (93) collected 11 points and 10 boards. David Angeler replied with 10 points in defeat, while Markus Strohmayer (195-F-93) and Vladimir Ljesevic (197-F-93) posted 5 apiece.

Montenegro U18: Marko Mugosa 21, Nemanja Gavranic 16, Vasilije Vusovic 14, Danilo Nikolic 11+10 rebs
Austria U18: David Angeler 10, Markus Strohmayer 5, Vladimir Ljesevic 5



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  BELGIUM   


Belgian Lions' preparation for European Championship well under way - by Bert Larsimont
The Belgian national team's preparation for the EuroBasket 2011 will officially start next Monday (July 25th) but the Lions have already trained together on July 6th, 13th and 20th. They will practice from July 25th to 28th and will then play three scrimmage games against African NTs in the Brussels area from July 29th to 31st:

- Belgium vs. Ivory Coast on July 29th, 15:00;
- Belgium vs. Central African Republic on July 30th, 18:00;
- Belgium vs. Senegal on July 31st, 18:00.



All three games will be played at the Sports Center in Neder-over-Hembeek (one suburb of Brussels).

On August 1st, the Lions will fly to Dallas, Texas for a camp and three games scheduled from August 1st to 9th. From there, they will also fly to Toronto, Canada where they will play three games (one against an NCAA selection and two against Canada) on August 12th, 13th and 14th.

The Belgian Lions will be back in Europe on August 16th. They will take part in a tournament with Germany, Turkey and Greece in Bamberg, Germany on August 19th, 20th and 21st.

Their last two preparation games before the 2011 European Championship will be against Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Sleuyter Arena in Oostende, Belgium on August 25th (time and date to be confirmed) and against France at the Stade Couvert in Lievin, France on August 27th at 20:30.




Twenty Lions to start the preparation campaign next week - by Bert Larsimont
Yesterday, Coach Eddy Casteels announced the list of 20 players who will start the preparation campaign for the next 2011 European Championship which will be held in Lithuania from August 31st to September 18th. Here are the 20 names:

Christophe Beghin (207-F-80), Lionel Bosco (176-PG-81), Maxime De Zeeuw (205-F-87), Marcus Faison (196-G-78), Pierre-Antoine Gillet (202-F-91), Axel Hervelle (205-F-83), Ioannis Iarochevitch (207-C/F-89), Dimitri Lauwers (187-G-79), Domien Loubry (186-G-85), Niels Marnegrave (191-G-87), Didier Mbenga (214-C-80), Roel Moors (190-G-78), Guy Muya (190-G-83), Jean-Marc Mwema (195-F-89), Randy Oveneke (201-F-86), Quentin Serron (190-G-90), Jorn Steinbach (181-PG-89), Jonathan Tabu (190-G-85), Thomas Van Den Spiegel (214-C-78) and Sam Van Rossom (188-G-86).

Yannick Driesen (215-C-88), renouncing for personal reasons, and Jeff Van Der Jonckheyd (203-F-82), not having recovered sufficiently from injury, will not take part in this campaign.




Sacha Massot returns to Antibes - by Eurobasket News
Sacha Massot (204-C/F-83, agency: LBM Management) will stay with Antibes for the next season. The Belgian big guy joined the club last summer averaging 13.1 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists for 28 games in ProB. Eurobasket awarded Massot with All-French ProB Center of the Year -11. In May this year Masson moved to Charleroi and helped them to defend the championship title. For eight games he had 5 ppg and 4.1 rpg. Sacha Massot was a member of Charleroi from 2003 to 2007 and after that from 2008 to 2010. They were champions in 2004, 2009, 2010 and this year as well. In 2009/10 season Massot registered 4 ppg and 3.3 rpg for the club. He also has experience from Pepinster. Sacha Massot is a former member of the Belgian National Team. He played for them in 2006, 2007, 2009 and 2010.

U18: Belgium celebrated the tough win in Varna - by Eurobasket News
Portugal U18-Belgium U18 57:59

Belgium celebrated the tough win at the start of the U18 European Championship over Portugal. Belgium needed a strong end to seal 59:57 victory.
Castela and El Khounchar exchanged the baskets early in the first period to be the first to score for their teams. The score was tied another two times in the frame, but Stas closed it at 13:8. Joao Alvaro (187-G-93) tied it back at 17:17, while Jose Miranda (189-G/F-94) nailed three for 29:25 at the halftime. Grosso brought 40:31, but Belgium finished the quarter with 6-1 run. The score was tied again at 43:43, 53:53 and 57:57. Only the last shot of Torreele with 4 seconds remaining became unanswered as Belgium clinched the win.
Marchant paced all the winners with 13 points and Gerald Henrard (203-C-93) scored 11. Jose Miranda delivered 15 points in the losing case, whilst Jonah Callenbach (195-F-93) and Joao Alvaro notched 7 apiece.

Portugal U18: Jose Miranda 15, Jonah Callenbach 7, Joao Alvaro 7
Belgium U18: Marchant 13, Gerald Henrard 11


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  BELIZE   


Dangriga Basketball Associaciation Results!!! - by David Magana
Game Results
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Game 1 (U19)
Ghans Avenue 38
New Site 32
Top performers
Ghans
Wasan Moss - 11pts, 6rebs
New Site
Jahta Caliz - 8pts
Kyle Neal - 6pts

Game 2 (U19)
Backatown 59
Southside 44
Top performers
Backatown
Steve Flores - 25pts, 2rebs
Wasani Flores - 11pts, 13rebs

Southside
John King - 12pts, 4stls
Edward Bevans - 11pts, 5rebs

Game 2 (U26)
Hopkins 64
Belize Bank Benguche 58
Top performers
Hopkins
Iver Ventura - 16pts, 5rebs, 4stls
Hansel Casimiro - 11pts, 8rebs

Belize Bank Benguche
Winston Pratt (186-G-90) - 19pts, 14rebs
Daniel Nolberto - 15pts, 6rebs

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  BERMUDAS   


Bermuda's National Team for the CBC Championships named - by Kristian Santiago
Bermuda Senior Men's National Basketball Team

Adam Correia (90)
Aaron Jackson (85)
Dean Jones (198-F-83)
Jordan Knight
John Lee (82)
Jason Lowe (85)
John Lugo
Sullivan Phillips (198-G/F-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Wash.Adventist)
Tejour Riley (94)
Jason Simons
Steven Simons (82)
Head Coach : Roderick Spencer
Assist Coach: Gavin MacKenzie
Assist Coach: Ralph Scott


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  BRAZIL   


Uberlandia brings back from Spain, Dida - by Paulo Freire
After more than two months off, the Uberlandia basketball team is back on the court. The team is preparing for the Mineiro State Championships and NBB. A new player was officially presented on Tuesday (19) it was the young swingman Olintho Pereira (201-F-92) more knowing as Dida.

In the last few years he was playing in a team from Spain and now is back where he started as a basketball player. Dida ahs been part of the brazilian national team for under ages kids, with 2.02 meters tall, he occupies the role of small foward in the team.

Rafu lands in Rio Claro team for the Paulista State - by Paulo Freire
After conducting individual training and physical work out throughout the basketball break period, in Campinas and Guaruja, guard Rafu Da Silva (197-G/F-83, college: New Haven, agency: Garra Sports Marketing) has focused on the 2011/12 season.

In this Thursday, 21/07, the player, who played for Vitria (ES) in the last NBB, reached a new deal to play in a new team, Rio Claro (SP). Born in Sao Paulo, Rafu Da Silva says he is honored to again play in the Paulista state championship and hope to fight for the title of the strongest state tournament in Brazil.

- I'm very pride that I come to the city that has always been part of Brazil basketball history and also Sao Paulo State basketball history. I feel honored and happy to be defending this shirt that has so much tradition in the best state for basketball in the country. Said the athlete, who in the last edition of the paulista state tournament was one of the highlights of the competition while playing for Sao Bernardo dos Campos.

Raphael Manoel da Silva, the Rafu, is now 28 years old and ensures that new team will open a new phase in his career. The athlete, who began playing basketball with 12 years of age in the Paulistano Club, had his long history of training made in the USA in basketball, playing in both high school to the University, working in four different institutions: Archbishop Carroll High School, Life Center Academy High School, Florida International University and University of New Haven.

'It's a new challenge that presents itself in my career. Since I returning to Brazil, I had to prove what I have learned over these years in American basketball. Nothing better than being in Rio Claro wich is a fantastic city, which breathes basketball. This is a special moment in Brazilian basketball, with the development of the NBB and Brazil Cup, it becomes an ideal setting for me to show my work, 'said the guard who is 1.94m height.

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  BULGARIA   


U18 :The home side opened the U18 European Championship with the win over Luxembourg - by Eurobasket News
Bulgaria U18-Luxembourg U18 106:59

The home side opened the U18 European Championship with the win over Luxembourg. Bulgaria U18 thrashed the opponents 106:59 in Group A second game.
Bulgaria began well with a 11-0 run setting the tone for a dominating first quarter. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) closed the period for 25:5 as the hosts never looked behind. Luxembourg started to play better in the second frame and lost the period only 23-24. Karamfilov nailed three for 49:28 at the halftime. Tencho Tenchev (203-F-93) opened the third period with a jump shot and Damyan Stoyanov (192-G/F-93) nailed three for 57:33. Pavlin Ivanov followed the teammates at the end of the quarter from the long range as Bulgaria enjoyed 77:49 after thirty minutes. Another 29-10 in the last stanza allowed the hosts to taste the easy win.
Pavlin Ivanov stepped up with 22 points and Aleks Simeonov (200-C-93) netted 16. Tencho Tenchev ended up with 14 points, while Damyan Stoyanov scored 13. Jo Hoeser (189-F-94) replied with 17 points in the losing case and Bob Melcher (185-PG-94) notched 13.

Bulgaria U18: Pavlin Ivanov 22, Aleks Simeonov 16, Tencho Tenchev 14, Damyan Stoyanov 13
Luxembourg U18: Jo Hoeser 17, Bob Melcher 13


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  CANADA   


Unfortunately for Canada, Bonner still not Canadian - by Eurobasket News
Canadian national basketball coach Leo Rautins really, really wants Matt Bonner (206-F-80, college: Florida) to play for his team. One problem: Bonner is still not Canadian.

The Spurs forward has been trying for years to gain dual citizenship, and he would seem to have a cut-and-dried case considering hes married to a Canadian, has a Canadian daughter and grandfather and lives most of the offseason in Toronto.

His nickname - The Red Rocket - is decidedly Canadian, homage to Torontos public transit system.

But Bonner is still not Canadian, and thus ineligible to play for Canada in various Olympic qualifying tournaments. The feet-dragging has left Rautins almost apoplectic, according to the London Free Press (h/t to Project Spurs for the find).

I see a lot of Canadians who are less Canadian than Matt Bonner, Rautins told the Canadian newspaper. His daughters Canadian. His wifes Canadian. His grandfathers Canadian. Hes got a home here. When hes not playing for the San Antonio Spurs, hes here (in Toronto).

Bonners bid to become officially Canadian has been well chronicled. His motives go beyond basketball.

A native of Concord, N.H., who was granted permanent residency status in 2009, Bonner has requested citizenship in order to simplify his frequent border crossings.

A chance to perhaps one day play in the Olympics would be a pleasant side effect.

The main obstacle to Bonner obtaining citizenship, according to the London Free Press piece, seems to be the unfortunate fact that he spends most of his year in the United States. Considering he plays for the Spurs, that seems to be an unavoidable fact of life.

The Canadian basketball federation has pressed this point to the federal government, but so far unsuccessfully.

Trust me, weve tried everything, Rautins told the London Free Press. I feel bad for Matt. I dont know if theres anybody who wants to play more (for Canada) than he does.

If this seems like more hand-wringing than necessary over Matt Bonner, consider that Joel Anthony is the only player on Canadas 17-man training camp roster with any NBA experience. The infusion of any amount of NBA talent would certainly be welcome.

For now, Rautins will have to be content to coach Cory Joseph, the Spurs first-round draft pick in June and Bonners soon-to-be NBA teammate. Joseph was born in Toronto. Bonner got there as fast as he could, but perhaps a bit too late.

Courtesy of http://blog.mysanantonio.com

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  CAYMAN ISLANDS   


The Cayman Islands National Team for the CBC Championships in the Bahamas - by Kristian Santiago
Cayman Islands National Team Roster:


Jorge Ebanks (185-G-88, college: Daemen) of Buffalo Stampede (USA)
Jerome Graham-Record of Weber State (USA)
Chad Leslie (C) of Heat
Jerome Narcisse (193-G/F) of SW Oklahoma State (USA)
Dwight O'Garro (C) of Wolves
Sammy O'Garro (196-G) of Eckerd (USA)
Shaad Ogarro (200-F) of Campbellsville (USA)
Lloyd Samuels of King's College (USA)
Deandre Simpson (195-G) of SW Oklahoma State (USA)
Cory Thompson of Wolves
Rotando Thompson (C) of Dominos Warriors
Jasen Campbell of Dominos Warriors

Head Coach: Daniel Augustine



Jamaal Miller to Princeton Day Academy - by Kristian Santiago
Local U-18 player Jamaal Miller will be moving to Maryland in the United States to play high school hoops for the Princeton Day Academy. He was discovered by Washington-based coach Kevin Willis who runs an organization called 'Total Basketball' that works together with U.S. schools.

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  CBC CHAMPIONSHIPS   


The Cayman Islands National Team for the CBC Championships in the Bahamas - by Kristian Santiago
Cayman Islands National Team Roster:


Jorge Ebanks (185-G-88, college: Daemen) of Buffalo Stampede (USA)
Jerome Graham-Record of Weber State (USA)
Chad Leslie (C) of Heat
Jerome Narcisse (193-G/F) of SW Oklahoma State (USA)
Dwight O'Garro (C) of Wolves
Sammy O'Garro (196-G) of Eckerd (USA)
Shaad Ogarro (200-F) of Campbellsville (USA)
Lloyd Samuels of King's College (USA)
Deandre Simpson (195-G) of SW Oklahoma State (USA)
Cory Thompson of Wolves
Rotando Thompson (C) of Dominos Warriors
Jasen Campbell of Dominos Warriors

Head Coach: Daniel Augustine



Bermuda's National Team for the CBC Championships named - by Kristian Santiago
Bermuda Senior Men's National Basketball Team

Adam Correia (90)
Aaron Jackson (85)
Dean Jones (198-F-83)
Jordan Knight
John Lee (82)
Jason Lowe (85)
John Lugo
Sullivan Phillips (198-G/F-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Wash.Adventist)
Tejour Riley (94)
Jason Simons
Steven Simons (82)
Head Coach : Roderick Spencer
Assist Coach: Gavin MacKenzie
Assist Coach: Ralph Scott


Guyana jets off to the CBC Championships ; unveils final roster - by Kristian Santiago
Guyana National Team 2011 :

steve Neils jr
Dwayne Roberts (C)
Akeem Kanhai - Ravens
Kurt Elias (C)
Ryan Gullen (C)
Ryan Stephney - Ravens
Rodwell Fortune - Ravens
Royston Siland (C) - Courts Pacesetters
Shane Webster
Stephan Gillis - Courts Pacesetters
Niel Marks
Keron McKenzie (193-G-86, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment, college: Armstr.Atlantic)


Head Coach: Robert Cadogan



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  COLOMBIA   


SOUTHAMERICAN TOURNAMENT U-17 DAY 4 RESULTS - by Victor Garcia
Argentina is trying to get its confidence back defeating Paraguay in the fourth day of 2011 Soutamerican U-17 Champioship.
Argentina 84
Paraguay 33

Chile achieve an important victory against Ecuador, and keep the hope alife to get a place in the top 5
Chile 56
Ecuador 48 Bryan Ayovi 14 pts.

Brazil continues dominating its rivals, the blue and yellow team defeated Uruguay.
Brazil 54
Uruguay 48.

Colombias hope are rising the National team is playing solid and looks strong enough to face Brazil and Argentina and get the gold, Colombia got its fourth straight victory defeating Venezuela.
Colombia 78
Venezuela 70.


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  CROATIA   


U18: Croatia overwhelm Greece in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U18 - Greece U18 61:45

Croatia opened win count at U18 European Championship. They held off Greece in Group A. Marko Ramljak (201-F/G-93, agency: Interperformances) scored 16 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the winners.
Croatia capped the opening quarter with five points in a row to take a 12:7 lead. Mislav Brzoja (192-F/G-94) and Stipe Krstanovic (201-F/C-93) made it 27:15 for Croatia midway through the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 16 points 32:16. Stipe Krstanovic and Mislav Brzoja stretched the lead to 21 points midway through the third term. Croatia posted a 45:28 advantage with one quarter remaining. Marko Ramljak knocked down 7 points in the fourth quarter to pace Croatia to a comfortable win at the end. Mislav Brzoja had 12 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists for the Croats. Stipe Krstanovic added 11 points in the victory. Emmanouil Tselentakis (195-F-93) answered with 11 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis (200-F-93) had 10 points in the loss.

Croatia U18: Marko Ramljak 16+10 boards, Mislav Brzoja 12+10 boards, Stipe Krstanovic 11
Greece U18: Emmanouil Tselentakis 11, Giannoulis Larentzakis 10


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  CYPRUS   


World Military Championship: Trinidad and Tobago edge Cyprus - by Eurobasket News
Trinidad and Tobago - Cyprus 70:65

Trinidad and Tobago posted the third victory at the World Military Championship. They rallied past Cyprus for 3-2 record in Group A. Cyprus in the meantime slipped at 1-4 record. Keivan Bacquain (202-C) knocked down 13 points to lead the Caribbean team.
Cyprus ensured the stronger start. The European team posted a 19:14 lead at the first break. They led 21:19 midway through the second quarter but Trinidad and Tobago went on a 17:2 run to post a 36:23 halftime advantage. Trinidad and Tobago led the charge in the third frame. The Caribbean team secured a 48:43 lead with one quarter remaining. Trinidad and Tobago kept Cyprus at bay in the final frame and rolled to the victory at the end. Wilt Vincent (201-C-79) and Herdis Lewis (186-G) finished with 12 points each for the winners. Antreas Katsiamides (177-PG-91) and Nicolas Constantinou (186-G/F-91) replied with 18 points apiece for Cyprus. Kyriakos Pantziaros (195-F-91) provided 16 points in defeat.

Trinidad and Tobago: Keivan Bacquain 13, Wilt Vincent 12, Herdis Lewis 12
Cyprus: Antreas Katsiamides 18, Nicolas Constantinou 18, Kyriakos Pantziaros 16


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


U18: Spain celebrate first win in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 - Czech Republic U18 84:60

Spain earned the first win at the U18 European Championship in Poland. They overcame Czech Republic in Group C. Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) came up with 17 points, 8 assists and 5 boards to lead the effort.
Czech Republic opened the game with four points in a row but Spain soon erased the deficit and surged ahead. Spain posted a 27:23 lead after ten minutes. Spain used a 9:2 run midway through the second term to boost the margin to 13 points. But Czech Republic capped the first half with eight points in a row to cut the margin to 5 points 38:43. Spain tipped off the second half with a 13:3 run to clear off. The Spaniards outscored their opponents 24:10 in the period to pile up an 84:60 lead with one quarter remaining. Spain never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Daniel Diez (199-F-93) and Guillermo Hernangomez (203-C-94) scored 15 points each for Spain. Redondo netted 14 points in the win. Martin Kriz (202-F-93) responded with 20 points and 11 rebounds for Czech Republic. Tomas Kyzlink (197-G/F-93) had 12 points in defeat.

Spain U18: Jaime Fernandez 17, Daniel Diez 15, Guillermo Hernangomez 15
Czech Republic U18: Martin Kriz 20+11 boards, Tomas Kyzlink 12


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  D-LEAGUE   


Red Claws name Dave Leitao Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
The Maine Red Claws, presented by Quirk Chevrolet, today introduced Dave Leitao as the team's head coach. The announcement was made today in front of an exuberant crowd of Boys and Girls Club members and reporters at the Boys and Girls Club located on Cumberland Avenue in Portland. The announcement comes exactly two years to the day of the naming of Austin Ainge as the team's first head coach; Ainge was recently named the Director of Player Personnel for the Boston Celtics, paving the way for Leitao to take the reins as the second head coach in Red Claws' history.

'Dave Leitao has a tremendous resume of developing young talent and of getting the best out of his players,' said Red Claws President and General Manager Jon Jennings. 'Our players will benefit greatly from his experience and emphasis on defense and winning. 'Dave as the head coach of the Maine Red Claws is a great addition for the franchise. This organization has enjoyed a great number of successes, on and off the court, and this day marks the beginning step to the next level for this franchise.'

Leitao, 51, brings a wealth of college experience to Maine, with a coaching career that has spanned 25 years at top college programs. The Massachusetts native is the former head coach of the University of Virginia where he was named the 2006-07 Atlantic Coast Conference Coach of the Year by the Associated Press as well as the 2007 National Association of Basketball Coaches District 5 Coach of the Year. Previously, he was head coach at Northeastern University and DePaul University and served lengthy stints as an assistant coach at Northeastern and the University of Connecticut. As the assistant coach at UConn, Leitao served under Hall-of-Fame head coach Jim Calhoun for whom he had also played at Northeastern University.

'Dave is a special person and coach and is a part of my family and has been for 30 years,' said Calhoun. 'He is an outstanding hire, not only from a basketball standpoint, but also as a molder of young men. He knows what these players will need to do to get to the next level, as players and as people. I could not be more excited for him for this opportunity, and the Red Claws and the Portland community are fortunate to have him.'

A two-year captain at Northeastern from 1978-1982, the 6'7' forward helped the Huskies reach the NCAA Tournament in his final two years. At Calhoun's behest, Leitao entered the coaching ranks as Northeastern's assistant coach in 1984, following Calhoun to UConn in 1986. He took the reins of his own team in 1994, returning to his alma mater as head coach from 1994-96. Leitao returned to UConn as associate head coach in

1996, remaining for six years, including the Huskies National Championship season of 1999, before being named the head coach at DePaul in 2002. He oversaw the Blue Demons' transition from Conference USA to the Big East basketball conference, leading DePaul to two trips to the NIT and one to the NCAA Tournament before joining the University of Virginia as head coach in 2005. Most recently, Leitao worked as a consultant for the Next Level Talent Management Agency, a sports and entertainment management firm in Virginia Beach, VA.

'I am a great believer in the 'defense first' philosophy and that defense wins games, 'If you look at any sport at the highest level, defense is what wins championships and wins,' said Leitao. 'If you have good pitching and good fielding, you're going to win a lot of games in baseball. The greatest coaches in football have had great defenses. It's the same in basketball. It's what I learned, and it's what I believe in.' '

'I have heard incredible things about the crowds at the Portland Expo and the dedication and knowledge of Crustacean Nation,' Leitao continued. 'I am looking forward to experiencing that first hand. This will be an exciting season of basketball in Maine, and I can't wait to get to the arena and get started.'

'I am incredibly excited about this upcoming season and the program we are building on and off the court,' Jennings said. 'With two seasons under our belt, we know what to expect and where we want to go. I can't wait for the season to begin.'

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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  ESTONIA   


U18: England and Estonia showed one of the most interesting games in Day 1 - by Eurobasket News
England U18-Estonia U18 65:63

England and Estonia showed one of the most interesting games in the start of the U18 European Championship. The United Kingdom won the thriller 65:63 due to the last stanza.
It was a tough start and both teams tried to know more about each other in the court. They exchanged the leads several times and Rait-Riivo Laane (180-G-93) closed the frame at 19:18. Spencer tied the game at 23:23 and then his team was in front until the end of the half. Simeon Esprit (195-G/F-93) was the last to score in the second period for 35:32 halftime advantage. Estonia needed a 6-0 run midway through the third quarter to take 46:43, while Poldoja closed the period at 49:44. Graham later tied the game at 59:59 and bring the minimum advantage for England from the free throw line. Simeon Esprit and again Graham's shots were the last successful in the game as United Kingdom won the thrilling opener.
Graham paced all the winners with 12 points and Raphell Thomas-Edwards (195-F-93) as well as Simeon Esprit scored 11 each. Jamie Batish followed them with 10 points in the winning effort. Janari Joesaar (197-F-93) erupted with 27 points for Estonia and Rait-Riivo Laane notched 12.

England U18: Graham 12, Raphell Thomas-Edwards 11, Simeon Esprit 11, Jamie Batish 10
Estonia U18: Janari Joesaar 27, Rait-Riivo Laane 12



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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


ESL 2011Cologne Day (3) Results: - by Darryl Reshaw
ESL Cologne Day (3) Results:

Game (5)
Team Sofia 87 Team Seville 82

The Sofia team comprised of players from the United Kingdom surprised the Team Seville in the final day of the ESL Cologne event.
Former England International legend Sam Stiller devised a game plan that worked against the bigger and much more athletic team from the United States.
They used a lot of pressure defense and a ball screen offense to pure perfection against the talented Seville team.
A key factor was keeping Seville off of the offensive glass and Coach Sam Stiller instructed his players to block out the more athletic team.
However the stellar performance of Duke-Jermaine Forbes (6'1''-G-80, college: W.Georgia) (30pts) with 8/13 shooting 61% of the floor propelled Sofia to victory.
Jermaine is a super talented Bosman A guard that has played in several countries in Europe. He has the game to play at a high level and has all the skills to be a big time player in Europe.
Willie Irick (6'6''-F-84, college: Oklahoma City) the talented swing man from the Seville Team scored 25pts and 7rbs for Seville.
Dwayne Foreman (5'10''-G-84, college: Georgia Southern) who may have been the most interesting player and best PG in the Cologne event scored 18pts and 9ast.
However the sharp shooting display of Duke-Duke-Jermaine Forbes (6'1''-G-80, college: W.Georgia) and Team Sofia was too much for Team Seville.
Carl Josey (6'5''-G-86, college: VMI) the talented guard from Sofia chipped in 11 points and Jeff Danchie (5'10''-G-84) also contributed 14 points for the winning side.

Sofia gegen Seville
Eurobasket Summer League - 17.07.2011 - 11:00
87 : 82 (27:23, 25:23, 19:20, 16:16)
Spielnummer: Ballpark Zuschauer: 0
Schiedsrichter: Tech. Kommissar:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Sofia Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
1 JOSEY, CARL 11 1/2 1/2 2/3 4/7 57 1/2 50 8 - 8 4 4 2 - 3 1 40:00 0.30
2 BROOKS, BRICE 8 2/4 1/4 - 3/8 37 2/2 100 1 2 3 3 3 - 1 5 2 27:36 0.07
3 Danchie, Jeff 14 2/2 2/2 0/4 4/8 50 6/9 66 - 2 2 2 2 - - - 6 26:21 -0.0
4 AJUMOBI, DAVE 7 3/5 0/2 0/1 3/8 37 1/2 50 2 - 2 4 - - - 2 1 17:17 -0.2
5 FORBES, JERMAINE 30 1/1 2/6 5/6 8/13 61 9/10 90 5 - 5 3 1 2 1 2 7 32:33 0.39
6 Harris, Leon - - - - - 0 - 0 - - - - - - - - - 1:04 -
7 MARGAI, ALBERT 11 1/2 - 3/6 4/8 50 - 0 2 - 2 3 5 1 - 3 - 19:20 0.41
8 Toluwase, Sam 4 1/4 1/2 0/1 2/7 28 - 0 1 4 5 4 1 - - 1 1 15:44 -0.0
9 Fenyn, Adrian 2 1/1 - - 1/1 100 - 0 5 - 5 1 4 1 - 2 3 19:23 0.51
10 Kalambani, Edgar - - - - - 0 - 0 - - - - - - - - - 0:42 -
Mannschaftsaktionen 4 3 7 - -
Summe 87 12/21 7/18 10/21 29/60 48 19/25 76 28 11 39 24 20 6 2 18 21 200:00 0.22
Trainer: Co-Trainer:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Seville Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
21 Parham, Tim - - - - - 0 - 0 - - - - - - - - - - -
22 IRICK, WILLIE 25 4/6 3/3 3/7 10/16 62 2/2 100 4 3 7 4 - - - 3 2 28:53 0.34
23 DAVIS, TONY 8 2/4 0/1 - 2/5 40 4/6 66 1 2 3 1 - 1 1 2 4 23:27 0.04
24 FOREMAN, DWAYNE 18 3/7 4/5 0/10 7/22 31 4/5 80 3 1 4 3 2 9 - 3 3 38:23 0.07
25 Smith, Desmond 9 3/4 1/1 - 4/5 80 1/2 50 2 3 5 2 1 - - 5 2 27:02 0.22
26 Johnson, Kaseem 4 2/3 0/1 - 2/4 50 0/1 0 1 1 2 - - - - 2 2 12:19 0.08
27 AIKENS, TRAVIS 9 1/5 3/4 0/3 4/12 33 1/2 50 5 1 6 4 5 - - 4 4 31:10 0.06
38 LAWRENCE, TRISTAN 9 3/5 - 1/3 4/8 50 - 0 1 2 3 2 3 1 - 3 - 38:46 0.15
Mannschaftsaktionen 4 1 5 - -
Summe 82 18/34 11/15 4/23 33/72 45 12/18 66 21 14 35 16 11 11 1 22 17 200:00 0.17
Trainer: Co-Trainer:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Mannschaftsvergleich Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
Summe 87 12/21 7/18 10/21 29/60 48 19/25 76 28 11 39 24 20 6 2 18 21 200:00 0.22
Summe 82 18/34 11/15 4/23 33/72 45 12/18 66 21 14 35 16 11 11 1 22 17 200:00 0.17
ND2 = Nahdistanz2er MD2 = Mitteldistanz2er De = Defensiv Rebound Of = Offensiv Rebound Su = Summe Rebounds To = TurnOver AS = Assist
St = Steal Bs = Block P = Persnliches Foul g = gefoult worden Min. = Einsatzzeit Index = (Pkt-Versuche+Su+As+Bs+St-TO)*60/Min.

Game (6)
Team Munich 107, Team Belgrade 103

This game was a very exciting contest featuring the first overtime of the ESL Cologne event.
Team Munich overwhelmed Belgrade in the overtime period and won the game 107-103 in a thrilling contest that excited the fans at the ballpark venue in Cologne.
Munich was led by a strong performance from Nicholas Pederson (6'8''-F-85) (23 points and 7rebounds) who captured the attention of a few European scouts..
Justin Knox (6'9''-F) the former North Carolina Tar Heel player was impressive with a 17pts and 8rbs performance that helped Munich defeat Belgrade 107-103.
Edson Jones (6'4''-G-79) played extremely well and had an outstanding ESL Tourney as he scored 16 points for the winners.
Giannis Prodromou (6'5''-F-87) played well and added 14 points for Munich and Joshua Brown (6'1''-G-88, college: Mount Olive) was solid with another 13 points.
Rivelino Pierre (6'4''-G) had a quality game as he chipped in 12 points for the winners.
Team Belgrade was led by the smooth shooting Bilal Abdullah (6'5''-G-84, college: Lafayette) who scored 22pts and Thomas Ble (6'1''-G-89, college: Njard IL) added 19 points for team Belgrade.
Jonah Baize (6'6''-F, college: Clemson) from Clemson had a quality game for Belgrade scoring 13 points and his teammate Guy Aud (6'0''-G-89) added 13 points as well.
Agnis Cavars (6'6''-F-86) from Latvia put in another fine performance scoring 11 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
Eric Taylor had his best game of the ESL event scoring 15 points for the Belgrade team.

Belgrade gegen Munich
Eurobasket Summer League - 17.07.2011 - 13:00
103 : 107 (24:20, 29:25, 21:21, 21:29, 8:12)
Spielnummer: Ballpark Zuschauer: 0
Schiedsrichter: Tech. Kommissar:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Belgrade Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
11 Clipper, DeShar 3 1/1 - - 1/1 100 1/3 33 1 - 1 1 1 - - 5 3 12:11 -
12 ABDULLAH, BILAL 22 3/4 0/1 3/6 6/11 54 7/10 70 4 - 4 3 1 1 1 5 4 27:27 0.18
13 Aud, Guy 13 2/3 2/4 0/2 4/9 44 5/5 100 5 1 6 4 3 4 - 4 3 25:27 0.31
14 OXLEY, ANT - - - 0/3 0/3 0 - 0 1 - 1 1 6 1 - 2 1 27:56 0.14
15 MANZANZA, CHRISTIAN 7 1/3 1/1 0/1 2/5 40 3/4 75 2 3 5 3 1 - - 5 3 14:49 0.06
16 Ble, Thomas 19 2/4 - 4/4 6/8 75 3/3 100 3 - 3 1 4 1 - 2 3 28:28 0.52
17 Baize, Jonah 13 3/5 3/6 0/2 6/13 46 1/2 50 3 1 4 1 1 - - 3 3 28:36 0.06
18 EVANS, BRANDON - 0/1 - - 0/1 0 - 0 1 1 2 - - - - - - 2:03 0.48
19 Cavars, Agnis 11 2/5 0/2 1/5 3/12 25 4/8 50 7 3 10 3 1 - - 4 5 33:28 -0.0
20 TAYLOR, ERIC 15 1/1 2/3 1/2 4/6 66 6/7 85 2 1 3 2 1 2 - 5 5 24:35 0.24
Mannschaftsaktionen - - - - -
Summe 103 15/27 8/17 9/25 32/69 46 30/42 71 29 10 39 19 19 9 1 35 30 225:00 0.18
Trainer: Co-Trainer:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Munich Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
28 PEDERSON, NIC 23 3/3 1/6 3/3 7/12 58 6/8 75 5 2 7 - 1 2 - 1 6 36:09 0.35
29 ZIMMERMAN, ERIC 6 0/1 1/3 1/2 2/6 33 1/2 50 1 - 1 - 1 - - 5 2 23:04 -
30 Adrien, Owona - - - - - 0 - 0 - - - - - - - 1 - - -
31 Ngbwa, Yannick - 0/1 - - 0/1 0 - 0 - - - 1 - - - 2 - 9:35 -0.2
32 PRODROMOU, GIANNIS 14 3/5 0/1 0/2 3/8 37 8/15 53 3 2 5 2 1 2 - 4 8 32:38 -0.0
33 BROWN, JOSHUA 13 3/5 1/3 - 4/8 50 5/5 100 3 2 5 3 2 2 - 5 5 19:24 0.30
34 Knox, Justin 17 4/8 1/2 - 5/10 50 7/8 87 4 4 8 1 - - 1 5 7 24:45 0.28
35 Rivelino, Pierre 12 1/1 4/8 0/1 5/10 50 2/2 100 2 - 2 2 1 1 1 2 1 26:29 0.11
36 JONES, EDSON 16 4/5 2/2 - 6/7 85 4/6 66 4 - 4 4 4 1 - 3 2 27:20 0.29
37 Gentry, Dwight 6 - 0/4 1/4 1/8 12 3/4 75 2 1 3 3 1 2 - 4 1 25:36 -0.1
Mannschaftsaktionen 5 4 9 - -
Summe 107 18/29 10/29 5/12 33/70 47 36/50 72 29 15 44 16 11 10 2 32 32 225:00 0.16
Trainer: Co-Trainer:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Mannschaftsvergleich Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
Summe 103 15/27 8/17 9/25 32/69 46 30/42 71 29 10 39 19 19 9 1 35 30 225:00 0.18
Summe 107 18/29 10/29 5/12 33/70 47 36/50 72 29 15 44 16 11 10 2 32 32 225:00 0.16
ND2 = Nahdistanz2er MD2 = Mitteldistanz2er De = Defensiv Rebound Of = Offensiv Rebound Su = Summe Rebounds To = TurnOver AS = Assist
St = Steal Bs = Block P = Persnliches Foul g = gefoult worden Min. = Einsatzzeit Index = (Pkt-Versuche+Su+As+Bs+St-TO)*60/Min.

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


ESL 2011Cologne Day (3) Results: - by Darryl Reshaw
ESL Cologne Day (3) Results:

Game (5)
Team Sofia 87 Team Seville 82

The Sofia team comprised of players from the United Kingdom surprised the Team Seville in the final day of the ESL Cologne event.
Former England International legend Sam Stiller devised a game plan that worked against the bigger and much more athletic team from the United States.
They used a lot of pressure defense and a ball screen offense to pure perfection against the talented Seville team.
A key factor was keeping Seville off of the offensive glass and Coach Sam Stiller instructed his players to block out the more athletic team.
However the stellar performance of Duke-Jermaine Forbes (6'1''-G-80, college: W.Georgia) (30pts) with 8/13 shooting 61% of the floor propelled Sofia to victory.
Jermaine is a super talented Bosman A guard that has played in several countries in Europe. He has the game to play at a high level and has all the skills to be a big time player in Europe.
Willie Irick (6'6''-F-84, college: Oklahoma City) the talented swing man from the Seville Team scored 25pts and 7rbs for Seville.
Dwayne Foreman (5'10''-G-84, college: Georgia Southern) who may have been the most interesting player and best PG in the Cologne event scored 18pts and 9ast.
However the sharp shooting display of Duke-Duke-Jermaine Forbes (6'1''-G-80, college: W.Georgia) and Team Sofia was too much for Team Seville.
Carl Josey (6'5''-G-86, college: VMI) the talented guard from Sofia chipped in 11 points and Jeff Danchie (5'10''-G-84) also contributed 14 points for the winning side.

Sofia gegen Seville
Eurobasket Summer League - 17.07.2011 - 11:00
87 : 82 (27:23, 25:23, 19:20, 16:16)
Spielnummer: Ballpark Zuschauer: 0
Schiedsrichter: Tech. Kommissar:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Sofia Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
1 JOSEY, CARL 11 1/2 1/2 2/3 4/7 57 1/2 50 8 - 8 4 4 2 - 3 1 40:00 0.30
2 BROOKS, BRICE 8 2/4 1/4 - 3/8 37 2/2 100 1 2 3 3 3 - 1 5 2 27:36 0.07
3 Danchie, Jeff 14 2/2 2/2 0/4 4/8 50 6/9 66 - 2 2 2 2 - - - 6 26:21 -0.0
4 AJUMOBI, DAVE 7 3/5 0/2 0/1 3/8 37 1/2 50 2 - 2 4 - - - 2 1 17:17 -0.2
5 FORBES, JERMAINE 30 1/1 2/6 5/6 8/13 61 9/10 90 5 - 5 3 1 2 1 2 7 32:33 0.39
6 Harris, Leon - - - - - 0 - 0 - - - - - - - - - 1:04 -
7 MARGAI, ALBERT 11 1/2 - 3/6 4/8 50 - 0 2 - 2 3 5 1 - 3 - 19:20 0.41
8 Toluwase, Sam 4 1/4 1/2 0/1 2/7 28 - 0 1 4 5 4 1 - - 1 1 15:44 -0.0
9 Fenyn, Adrian 2 1/1 - - 1/1 100 - 0 5 - 5 1 4 1 - 2 3 19:23 0.51
10 Kalambani, Edgar - - - - - 0 - 0 - - - - - - - - - 0:42 -
Mannschaftsaktionen 4 3 7 - -
Summe 87 12/21 7/18 10/21 29/60 48 19/25 76 28 11 39 24 20 6 2 18 21 200:00 0.22
Trainer: Co-Trainer:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Seville Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
21 Parham, Tim - - - - - 0 - 0 - - - - - - - - - - -
22 IRICK, WILLIE 25 4/6 3/3 3/7 10/16 62 2/2 100 4 3 7 4 - - - 3 2 28:53 0.34
23 DAVIS, TONY 8 2/4 0/1 - 2/5 40 4/6 66 1 2 3 1 - 1 1 2 4 23:27 0.04
24 FOREMAN, DWAYNE 18 3/7 4/5 0/10 7/22 31 4/5 80 3 1 4 3 2 9 - 3 3 38:23 0.07
25 Smith, Desmond 9 3/4 1/1 - 4/5 80 1/2 50 2 3 5 2 1 - - 5 2 27:02 0.22
26 Johnson, Kaseem 4 2/3 0/1 - 2/4 50 0/1 0 1 1 2 - - - - 2 2 12:19 0.08
27 AIKENS, TRAVIS 9 1/5 3/4 0/3 4/12 33 1/2 50 5 1 6 4 5 - - 4 4 31:10 0.06
38 LAWRENCE, TRISTAN 9 3/5 - 1/3 4/8 50 - 0 1 2 3 2 3 1 - 3 - 38:46 0.15
Mannschaftsaktionen 4 1 5 - -
Summe 82 18/34 11/15 4/23 33/72 45 12/18 66 21 14 35 16 11 11 1 22 17 200:00 0.17
Trainer: Co-Trainer:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Mannschaftsvergleich Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
Summe 87 12/21 7/18 10/21 29/60 48 19/25 76 28 11 39 24 20 6 2 18 21 200:00 0.22
Summe 82 18/34 11/15 4/23 33/72 45 12/18 66 21 14 35 16 11 11 1 22 17 200:00 0.17
ND2 = Nahdistanz2er MD2 = Mitteldistanz2er De = Defensiv Rebound Of = Offensiv Rebound Su = Summe Rebounds To = TurnOver AS = Assist
St = Steal Bs = Block P = Persnliches Foul g = gefoult worden Min. = Einsatzzeit Index = (Pkt-Versuche+Su+As+Bs+St-TO)*60/Min.

Game (6)
Team Munich 107, Team Belgrade 103

This game was a very exciting contest featuring the first overtime of the ESL Cologne event.
Team Munich overwhelmed Belgrade in the overtime period and won the game 107-103 in a thrilling contest that excited the fans at the ballpark venue in Cologne.
Munich was led by a strong performance from Nicholas Pederson (6'8''-F-85) (23 points and 7rebounds) who captured the attention of a few European scouts..
Justin Knox (6'9''-F) the former North Carolina Tar Heel player was impressive with a 17pts and 8rbs performance that helped Munich defeat Belgrade 107-103.
Edson Jones (6'4''-G-79) played extremely well and had an outstanding ESL Tourney as he scored 16 points for the winners.
Giannis Prodromou (6'5''-F-87) played well and added 14 points for Munich and Joshua Brown (6'1''-G-88, college: Mount Olive) was solid with another 13 points.
Rivelino Pierre (6'4''-G) had a quality game as he chipped in 12 points for the winners.
Team Belgrade was led by the smooth shooting Bilal Abdullah (6'5''-G-84, college: Lafayette) who scored 22pts and Thomas Ble (6'1''-G-89, college: Njard IL) added 19 points for team Belgrade.
Jonah Baize (6'6''-F, college: Clemson) from Clemson had a quality game for Belgrade scoring 13 points and his teammate Guy Aud (6'0''-G-89) added 13 points as well.
Agnis Cavars (6'6''-F-86) from Latvia put in another fine performance scoring 11 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
Eric Taylor had his best game of the ESL event scoring 15 points for the Belgrade team.

Belgrade gegen Munich
Eurobasket Summer League - 17.07.2011 - 13:00
103 : 107 (24:20, 29:25, 21:21, 21:29, 8:12)
Spielnummer: Ballpark Zuschauer: 0
Schiedsrichter: Tech. Kommissar:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Belgrade Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
11 Clipper, DeShar 3 1/1 - - 1/1 100 1/3 33 1 - 1 1 1 - - 5 3 12:11 -
12 ABDULLAH, BILAL 22 3/4 0/1 3/6 6/11 54 7/10 70 4 - 4 3 1 1 1 5 4 27:27 0.18
13 Aud, Guy 13 2/3 2/4 0/2 4/9 44 5/5 100 5 1 6 4 3 4 - 4 3 25:27 0.31
14 OXLEY, ANT - - - 0/3 0/3 0 - 0 1 - 1 1 6 1 - 2 1 27:56 0.14
15 MANZANZA, CHRISTIAN 7 1/3 1/1 0/1 2/5 40 3/4 75 2 3 5 3 1 - - 5 3 14:49 0.06
16 Ble, Thomas 19 2/4 - 4/4 6/8 75 3/3 100 3 - 3 1 4 1 - 2 3 28:28 0.52
17 Baize, Jonah 13 3/5 3/6 0/2 6/13 46 1/2 50 3 1 4 1 1 - - 3 3 28:36 0.06
18 EVANS, BRANDON - 0/1 - - 0/1 0 - 0 1 1 2 - - - - - - 2:03 0.48
19 Cavars, Agnis 11 2/5 0/2 1/5 3/12 25 4/8 50 7 3 10 3 1 - - 4 5 33:28 -0.0
20 TAYLOR, ERIC 15 1/1 2/3 1/2 4/6 66 6/7 85 2 1 3 2 1 2 - 5 5 24:35 0.24
Mannschaftsaktionen - - - - -
Summe 103 15/27 8/17 9/25 32/69 46 30/42 71 29 10 39 19 19 9 1 35 30 225:00 0.18
Trainer: Co-Trainer:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Munich Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
28 PEDERSON, NIC 23 3/3 1/6 3/3 7/12 58 6/8 75 5 2 7 - 1 2 - 1 6 36:09 0.35
29 ZIMMERMAN, ERIC 6 0/1 1/3 1/2 2/6 33 1/2 50 1 - 1 - 1 - - 5 2 23:04 -
30 Adrien, Owona - - - - - 0 - 0 - - - - - - - 1 - - -
31 Ngbwa, Yannick - 0/1 - - 0/1 0 - 0 - - - 1 - - - 2 - 9:35 -0.2
32 PRODROMOU, GIANNIS 14 3/5 0/1 0/2 3/8 37 8/15 53 3 2 5 2 1 2 - 4 8 32:38 -0.0
33 BROWN, JOSHUA 13 3/5 1/3 - 4/8 50 5/5 100 3 2 5 3 2 2 - 5 5 19:24 0.30
34 Knox, Justin 17 4/8 1/2 - 5/10 50 7/8 87 4 4 8 1 - - 1 5 7 24:45 0.28
35 Rivelino, Pierre 12 1/1 4/8 0/1 5/10 50 2/2 100 2 - 2 2 1 1 1 2 1 26:29 0.11
36 JONES, EDSON 16 4/5 2/2 - 6/7 85 4/6 66 4 - 4 4 4 1 - 3 2 27:20 0.29
37 Gentry, Dwight 6 - 0/4 1/4 1/8 12 3/4 75 2 1 3 3 1 2 - 4 1 25:36 -0.1
Mannschaftsaktionen 5 4 9 - -
Summe 107 18/29 10/29 5/12 33/70 47 36/50 72 29 15 44 16 11 10 2 32 32 225:00 0.16
Trainer: Co-Trainer:
Feldwrfe Freiwurf Rebound T A S B Foul
# Mannschaftsvergleich Pkt ND2 MD2 3er Total % 1er % De Of Su o s t s P g Min. Index
Summe 103 15/27 8/17 9/25 32/69 46 30/42 71 29 10 39 19 19 9 1 35 30 225:00 0.18
Summe 107 18/29 10/29 5/12 33/70 47 36/50 72 29 15 44 16 11 10 2 32 32 225:00 0.16
ND2 = Nahdistanz2er MD2 = Mitteldistanz2er De = Defensiv Rebound Of = Offensiv Rebound Su = Summe Rebounds To = TurnOver AS = Assist
St = Steal Bs = Block P = Persnliches Foul g = gefoult worden Min. = Einsatzzeit Index = (Pkt-Versuche+Su+As+Bs+St-TO)*60/Min.

Pursuit after D.J. Strawberry continues in Israel - by David Pick
With the NBA lockout still in session, many players study their next move before the league reopens its doors again. Despite potential NBA interest in free agents, players are expected to 'settle' on the European delight as their home away from home.

'Eurobasket' recently learned that one of the athletes who played overseas last season and is receiving lots of looks this summer is D.J. Strawberry, who is wanted in Israel by almost every top rated organization. Strawberry was the Hornets' final cut last year and has current interest from both the Spurs and Lakers; however, he is determined on playing this coming season and is getting heat from major Israeli clubs who shall remain anonymous for the moment but are in search of a talented and proven guard.

An ACC All-Defensive team, dynamic and versatile playmaker is what stands out while thinking of Strawberry. Last summer, the 26-year-old Maryland graduate played for the Los Angeles Lakers in Vegas, averaging 13 points in just over 26 minutes, resulting in Hapoel Jerusalem giving him a serious look before eventually deciding to go with Will Solomon. Strawberry first met his international challenge in 2008 and answered with a respective 14.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg and 1.2spg in the Eurocup games while playing for Italy's Bologna. Before being bought out by Rytas this past season, Strawberry excelled with D-League's Reno Bighorns and improved every aspect of his game, posting numbers of 14.1 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.

Strawberry's next move is to be determined shortly, as he exercises his Israelis options hoping reside in Israel.

Strawberry was drafted in 2007 by the Phoenix Suns with the 59th pick only to be traded a year later to the Houston Rockets where from there, he joined Italian club Fortitudo Bologna. In 2010, Strawberry was signed by the New Orleans Hornets to a non-guaranteed one-year deal and eventually finished last season in Lithuania playing for Lietuvos Rytas.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd
Follow Eurobasket on Twitter: @EurobasketNews




Banvit returns Erkan Veyseloglu, signs Serkan Erdogan - by Eurobasket News
Banvit announced signing of Erkan Veyseloglu (200-F-83, agency: 1x1 Sports) for the next season. The Turkish forward returns to the club from Erdemir, where he spent last two years. Veyseloglu already played for Banvit and it was in 2008/09 season. He had 8.3 ppg and 3.7 rpg for 30 TBL games that year. In EuroChallenge, Veyseloglu added 4.5 ppg and 2.8 rpg for Banvit. Last season with Erdemir Erkan Veyseloglu had 12.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 1.4 apg in Turkey. In the past, he also played for Besiktas, Tuborg, Efes Pilsen and Fenerbahce.
Two days ago Banvit inked a deal with Serkan Erdogan (190-G-78, agency: 1x1 Sports). The experienced guard arrives 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.

Union Olimpija lands Deon Thompson - by Eurobasket News
Deon Thompson (203-F-88, college: N.Carolina) is a new member of Union Olimpija. The American power forward penned a two-year deal with the Ljubljana team. He heads to Union Olimpija from Ikaros, where he spent last season. Thompson appeared 25 times in Greek championship averaging 14.1 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.3 blocks. He was named Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Newcomers Team -11. Thompson also participated at the Greek League All-Star Game. Deon Thompson is a University of North Carolina product, where he graduated last year. He had 13.7 ppg, 6.7 rpg and 1.1 spg for 37 games as a senior. He helped North Carolina reach NIT Finals in 2010. A year before that Thompson had 10.6 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 28 games. He won the Gold at the FIBA U19 World Championship 2007. For 9 games with U19 USA he had 10 ppg and 6.1 rpg.

Best basketball scouting service launched - by Eurobasket
There were already some rumours in the air about launching the most sophisticated basketball scouting web site. And finally we have it: basketball-scouting.com was launched just a week ago.
It's the source for #1IBSS (International Basketball Scouting Services). Let's talk to the people involved in the new project.

Author: Where did the idea come from and how it started?

Marek Wojtera (Sports IT, European Manager): 'We were approached many times in the past with the ideas of getting into basketball scouting. Eurobasket web sites (we have in total 11 basketball related web sites we maintain) is currently #1 international basketball media. But maintaining the system with 300,000 profiles and covering 450 leagues is very challenging and required lots of work and focus. So we are not always jumping into new projects without deeper market research. We realized that combination of biggest DB with biggest stats system is a perfect match to launch a scouting web site. So sooner or later we would get into scouting anyway. But we also had some other projects going on as we constantly work on improving our current services and even maintaining what we already have in the system is very time-consuming. The green light was given at the end of last year. At the beginning the idea was relatively simple. But then we realized that if we do it the 'easy' way, we would be one of many other web sites about basketball scouting. So we had to do it better. We ended up with extremely sophisticated system, which measures almost every element of game (shooting abilities, defense, offense, etc.). It's nothing new on the market. But there is a difference if you do it for 100 players or for 100,000 players.'

Author: What's the advantage of basketball-scouting comparing to other similar web sites?

Marek Wojtera: 'The difference is about the scope and frequency we update data. If the coaches are interested about scouting the players in Bosnia, they can do that. They do not have only top 15 youngsters, but top 150 youngsters in the country. And you multiply it by 100 other leagues where NCAA usually recruits the players from and you end-up with the only such complex and unique system on the market. The basketball-scouting scouts also all pro players. So we do practically every player in Bosnian or any other pro or semi-pro in the world. So it can be used also by senior teams' coaches all around the world. I do not believe anyone will be able to provide so wide scouting data any time soon. The other advantage is the frequency we update data. We do not do it just periodically like other services do. We do it after EVERY single game played by the player. So if there was a game in Spanish 4th division or Chinese 2nd division tonight, tomorrow morning you have already adjusted all scouting data about the players, who played in that game.'

Author: Were there any technical challenges realted to building basketball-scouting?

Ernest Hertig (Sports IT, IT Manager): 'It was very challenging to put together so complex system.
The problem was with making sure that we calculate ALL various data for so many players and it's done EVERY NIGHT.
That's why the project took much longer than we scheduled.
In many case we came across 'that would be good idea, let's implement it' or 'let's spend few more days to re-write that part of code as it will speed-up opening the page by 2 seconds'.

Author: Is the work completed or you think about expanding it?

Ernest Hertig: 'Of course it will be on-going project. There is still another module we would like to add, which will allow our correspondents to add scouting reports about the players. We have a network of about 200 correspondents around the world, and if we get most of them involved in reporting about the players, that will be for sure an important addition to the system. Our system is a very unique and we do not have similar level systems on the market at all. It's easy to have impressive web site about a single league. But try to combine 450 leagues with 450 different systems and ideas how they play and here you end up with a very sophisticated system. That's why we do not have too much competition as no one is simply able to do what we did, and all programming has to be done only by us. It's maybe not easy, but at the other side we always do it in most efficient way and also in the case of basketball-scouting we have to assure that our correspondents will have easy-to-handle system to write life reports about every player from every game, whenever they are. That module will be finished in upcoming months. The other missing item is scouting U.S. high schools. That's quite a monster and few other local companies do it already in the States. However no one does it internationally anywhere close to the level we do. International scouting with hundreds of other leagues around the world is where the real challenge starts. That's why we decided to handle the most complex part before we will go to easier one.'

The new scouting web site can be checked at www.basketball-scouting.com

Alba Berlin extends Taylor - by Eurobasket News
Alba Berlin reached a new agreement with combo guard Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) to stay together for one more season. Taylor averaged 7.3 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 11 Eurocup games with Alba last season. He shined in the 2009-10 Eurocup, averaging 18.5 points in 6 regular season games with Telekom Baskets Bonn. He previously played for Premiata Montegranaro, where he averaged 13 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.6 steals in 30 Italian League games in 2008-09. It was Taylor's first year as a professional basketball player following a four-year career at the University of Oregon. Taylor helped Oregon reach the NCAA Tournament quarterfinals and win the Pacific-10 Conference Tournament in 2007. Taylor was a member of the United States national team that took part in the 2007 Pan-American Games played in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In the same announcement, Alba said that guard Julius Jenkins will not return to the team next season after five years in Berlin. 'I am very happy to have the opportunity to carry on playing for Alba. In just one year, Berlin has become like a second home for me,' Taylor said.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Khimky officially signs Chris Quinn and Timofey Mozgov - by Eurobasket News
Khimky Moscow Region officially announced signing of point guard Chris Quinn (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame) and center Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: RIZO).
Chris Quinn spent last season with the NBA team San Antonio Spurs. He appeared 38 times for them averaging 2.1 points and 1.1 assists. The Spurs were NBA Southwest Division champions, but they disappointed in the Playoffs. Before San Antonio, Chris Quinn played for the New Jersey Nets and Miami Heat. With the Heat in 2007/08 season Quinn had 7.8 ppg, 2 rpg and 3 apg. It was his best NBA season so far. Quinn is a product of the Notre Dame University. He graduated there in 2006. Quinn played 29 games for his school as a senior registering 17.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 6.4 apg.
Timofey Mozgov signed a deal and will play for Khimky during the lockout. The Russian centre has a contract with the Denver Nuggets. Timofey Mozgov spent four seasons with Khimky in 2007/2010. Last season the centre moved the NBA. He joined the New York Knicks averaging 4.0 points and 3.1 boards per game in his debut season. In February Timofey Mozgov was traded to the Denver Nuggets. His stats read 2.8 points and 1.7 rebounds per appearance there. Timofey Mozgov participated at 2010 World Championship. The player posted 13.0 points, 4.4 boards and 1.0 block per game in Turkey.

Donetsk signs Ivan Radenovic - by Eurobasket News
Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona) will continue his career in Ukraine. The Serbian forward penned a two-year deal with BC Donetsk. They will compete in the Euroleague Qualifying Round. Radenovic joined countrymates point guard Vule Avdalovic (189-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) and coach Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ) in Donetsk. He arrives from Menorca Basket, where he played last season. For 31 games in ACB, Radenovic collected 11.2 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 1.2 apg. They faced with relegation from the Spanish top division. In 2009/10, Ivan Radenovic was a member of CSKA Moscow and Cajasol. With the Russians he appeared six times in Euroleague registering 2.5 ppg and 1 rpg. After that he moved to Cajasol, where he added 4.1 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 22 games in Spain. Ivan Radenovic also played for Panellinios and Girona in the past. He is a University of Arizona product, where he graduated in 2007.

Olympiakos officially signs Kyle Hines - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos officially signed Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86) for the next season. The American big guy confirmed it via his Twitter account. Kyle Hines spent last season in Germany with Brose Baskets Bamberg. He appeared 10 times in Euroleague with them averaging 12.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.1 block. In German league, Hines added 10.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 1.2 bpg in 46 games. He helped Bamberg to win the championship title and National Cup. Eurobasket awarded him with All-German Bundesliga 2nd Team -11. Kyle Hines was Eurobasket.com All-Italian Lega2 Center of the Year -10. He played for Prima Veroli and helped them to reach the LegaDue Finals. In 40 game Hines registered 18.5 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 3.5 spg and 1.6 bpg. Hines also played for Prima Veroli in 2008/09 season. He is a product of the University of North Carolina, Greensboro, where he graduated in 2008.

*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


M-Standings - Group B
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Hungary1-0
2. Bulgaria1-0
3. Georgia0-1
4. Luxembourg.0-1
5. Austria0-1
Group B
1. Belgium1-0
2. U.Kingdom1-0
3. Denmark0-0
4. Estonia0-1
5. Portugal0-1
Group C
1. Montenegro.1-0
2. Romania1-0
3. Belarus0-0
4. Holland0-1
Group D
1. Slovakia1-0
2. Sweden1-0
3. Israel0-0
4. Norway0-1
5. Switzerlan.0-1


Standings Division A
Standings
Group A
1. Croatia1-0
2. Poland1-0
3. Slovenia0-1
4. Greece0-1
Group B
1. Germany1-0
2. Serbia1-0
3. Turkey0-1
4. Finland0-1
Group C
1. Spain1-0
2. France1-0
3. Latvia0-1
4. Czech Rep.0-1
Group D
1. Italy1-0
2. Lithuania1-0
3. Russia0-1
4. Ukraine0-1


Stats Leader
Points Per Game
 Janari JOESAAR
  EST
  (197-F-93)
  Avg: 27
 1. Joesaar, EST27.0 
 2. Petica, ROM24.0 
 3. Ivanov, BUL22.0 
 4. Mugosa, MNT21.0 
 5. Olah, ROM19.0 
 6. Borg, SWE18.0 
 7. Ndow, NOR18.0 
 8. Schilder, NED17.0 
 9. Hoeser, LUX17.0 
 10. Candiff, NED17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jesper ELIASSON
  (199-F-94)
  Avg: 16
 1. Eliasson, SWE16.0 
 2. Pavic, MNT14.0 
 3. Tenchev, BUL13.0 
 4. Olah, ROM11.0 
 5. Ndow, NOR10.0 
 6. Popovici, ROM10.0 
 7. Nikolic, MNT10.0 
 8. Hammink, NED10.0 
 9. Dimitrov, BUL9.0 
 10. Thomas-E., ENG9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Horia CRISTIEAN
  (183-PG-93)
  Avg: 10
 1. Cristiean, ROM10.0 
 2. Karamfilov, BUL9.0 
 3. Person, SWE6.0 
 4. Petrov, BUL5.0 
 5. Laane, EST4.0 
 6. Natskin, BUL4.0 
 7. Kasalica, MNT4.0 
 8. Polyak, HUN4.0 
 9. Larsson, SWE4.0 
 10. Averink, NED4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Tobias BORG
  (183-G-93)
  Avg: 6
 1. Borg, SWE6.0 
 2. Kovacs, HUN6.0 
 3. Laane, EST5.0 
 4. Laurent, LUX5.0 
 5. Graham, ENG5.0 
 6. Hurt, LUX5.0 
 7. Mugosa, MNT4.0 
 8. Spencer, ENG4.0 
 9. Polfer, LUX4.0 
 10. Petica, ROM4.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Dimitar DIMITROV
  BUL
  (202-F-93)
  Avg: 4
 1. Dimitrov, BUL4.0 
 2. Olah, ROM4.0 
 3. Kok, NED3.0 
 4. Bleeker, NED3.0 
 5. Magarity, SWE3.0 
 6. Harto, NOR2.0 
 7. Koprivica, MNT2.0 
 8. Dobos, HUN2.0 
 9. Paun, ROM2.0 
 10. Ivanov, BUL2.0 


Stats Leaders Div. A
Points Per Game
 Stefan POPOVSKI-TURANJANIN
  SRB
  (201-F-93)
  Avg: 22
 1. Popovski-T., SRB22.0 
 2. Ponitka, POL22.0 
 3. Caven, FIN22.0 
 4. Karnowski, POL21.0 
 5. Della Valle, ITA20.0 
 6. Kriz, CZE20.0 
 7. Goldyrev, RUS19.0 
 8. Veccia, ITA18.0 
 9. Fernandez, ESP17.0 
 10. Ramljak, CRO16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mouhammadou JAITEH
  (206-C-94)
  Avg: 12
 1. Jaiteh, FRA12.0 
 2. Lekunas, LTU11.0 
 3. Kriz, CZE11.0 
 4. Dinal, FRA11.0 
 5. Gudumak, RUS10.0 
 6. Ramljak, CRO10.0 
 7. Niedzwiedzki, POL10.0 
 8. Brzoja, CRO10.0 
 9. Chillo, ITA9.0 
 10. Mitrovic, SRB8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Jaime FERNANDEZ
  (187-G-93)
  Avg: 8
 1. Fernandez, ESP8.0 
 2. Mitrovic, SRB6.0 
 3. Rupnik, SLO6.0 
 4. Festr, CZE6.0 
 5. Imbro, ITA6.0 
 6. Eroglu, TUR5.0 
 7. Semaska, LTU5.0 
 8. Matczak, POL5.0 
 9. Grzelinski, POL5.0 
 10. Micic, SRB4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Francesco VECCIA
  (190-G-93)
  Avg: 5
 1. Veccia, ITA5.0 
 2. Ramljak, CRO5.0 
 3. Junakovic, CRO5.0 
 4. Monaldi, ITA4.0 
 5. Sipolins, LAT4.0 
 6. Jogela, LTU4.0 
 7. Pascolo, ITA4.0 
 8. Dallo, FRA4.0 
 9. Diez, ESP3.0 
 10. Larentzakis, GRE3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Przemyslaw KARNOWSKI
  (213-C-93)
  Avg: 5
 1. Karnowski, POL5.0 
 2. Gudaitis, LTU3.0 
 3. Mikulic, CRO2.0 
 4. Kamperidis, GRE1.0 
 5. Kymantas, LTU1.0 
 6. Loginov, RUS1.0 
 7. Brzoja, CRO1.0 
 8. Mitrovic, SRB1.0 
 9. Diez, ESP1.0 
 10. Nuolivirta, FIN1.0 


Results and Stats from Day 1 in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Greece - Croatia 45-61
Croatia opened win count at U18 European Championship. They held off Greece in Group A. Marko Ramljak (201-F/G-93, agency: Interperformances) scored 16 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the winners. Croatia capped the opening quarter with five points in a row to take a 12:7 lead. Mislav Brzoja (192-F/G-94) and Stipe Krstanovic (201-F/C-93) made it 27:15 for Croatia midway through the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 16 points 32:16. Stipe Krstanovic and Mislav Brzoja stretched the lead to 21 points midway through the third term. Croatia posted a 45:28 advantage with one quarter remaining. Marko Ramljak knocked down 7 points in the fourth quarter to pace Croatia to a comfortable win at the end. Mislav Brzoja had 12 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists for the Croats. Stipe Krstanovic added 11 points in the victory. Emmanouil Tselentakis (195-F-93) answered with 11 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis (200-F-93) had 10 points in the loss.

Slovenia - Poland 58-89
Poland opened their U18 European Championship campaign in style. The hosts cruised past Slovenia in Group A. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) stepped up with 22 points to lead the charge. Poland used an 11:3 run midway through the opening quarter to surge ahead. Poland posted a 23:13 lead at the first intermission. Slovenia managed to get within 5 points in the second term but the hosts reacted with an 8:0 run to take a 13-point lead. Poland arrived at halftime up by 9 points 42:33. Poland maintained the lead throughout the third term. They posted a 62:45 advantage with ten minutes remaining. Slovenia never threatened the margin in the fourth frame as the hosts coasted to the victory. Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) netted 21 points for Poland. Michal Michalak (194-G-93) added 14 points in the victory. Jan Osolnik (203-F-93) replied with 13 points for Slovenia. Luka Rupnik (184-PG-93) finished with 11 points and 6 assists in the loss.

Group B
Finland - Serbia 49-101
Serbia registered the first win at the U18 European Championship in Poland. They trounced Finland in Group B opener. Stefan Popovski-Turanjanin netted 22 points to lead the Balkan side. Serbia dominated from start to finish. They posted a 24:12 lead after ten minutes. Steady Serbia maintained the pressure as they piled up a 47:24 halftime lead. Serbia never slowed down in the third quarter. They arrived at the final break up by as many as 37 points. Finland did not manage to slow their opponents down a bit as Serbia coasted to the victory at the end. Nemanja Krstic (198-F-93) scored 11 points, while six players scored 8 points each in the victory. Joonas Caven (203-C/F-93) answered with 22 points for Finland. Kalle Naapi (187-G-93) delivered 11 points in the loss.

Germany - Turkey 68-66
Germany eked out a tough win against Turkey in the first game of the U18 European Championship for both teams. Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) scored 15 points to lead the effort. Turkey and Germany stayed close in the first quarter. Ozen and Tekin capped the period with four points in a row as Turkey posted an 18:13 lead at the first break. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 5 points 37:32. Germany opened the second half on a 10:0 run and surged ahead. Erulku answered with two triples as Turkey regained the lead. Besnik Bekteshi immediately stepped up with back-to-back trebles of his own as roller-coaster action continued. Germany arrived at the final intermission up by seven points 57:50. Turkey managed to get within four points with under three minutes remaining in regulation 60:64. Tayfun Erulku dragged the Turkish team within three points 62:65 with two minutes to go. Berkay Candan (205-F-93) and Kenan Sipahi put Turkey within two with 36 seconds to go. Haukohl missed a jumper but Germany grabbed an offensive rebound and gave no chance for Turkey. Dennis Schroeder (184-G-93) notched 13 points, while Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) added 11 points in the winning effort. Berkay Candan answered with 16 points for Turkey. Kenan Sipahi nailed 15 points in the loss.

Group C
Czech Republic - Spain 60-84
Spain earned the first win at the U18 European Championship in Poland. They overcame Czech Republic in Group C. Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) came up with 17 points, 8 assists and 5 boards to lead the effort. Czech Republic opened the game with four points in a row but Spain soon erased the deficit and surged ahead. Spain posted a 27:23 lead after ten minutes. Spain used a 9:2 run midway through the second term to boost the margin to 13 points. But Czech Republic capped the first half with eight points in a row to cut the margin to 5 points 38:43. Spain tipped off the second half with a 13:3 run to clear off. The Spaniards outscored their opponents 24:10 in the period to pile up an 84:60 lead with one quarter remaining. Spain never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Daniel Diez (199-F-93) and Guillermo Hernangomez (203-C-94) scored 15 points each for Spain. Alejandro Redondo (196-F/G-93) netted 14 points in the win. Martin Kriz (202-F-93) responded with 20 points and 11 rebounds for Czech Republic. Tomas Kyzlink (197-G/F-93) had 12 points in defeat.

Latvia - France 46-66
France opened their U18 European Championship campaign with victory. They outlasted Latvia to gain the first win in Group C. William Howard (201-F-93) and Ulysse Adjagba (185-PG-93) stepped up with 14 points each to lead the effort. France and Latvia stayed close in a low-scoring first period. The teams were tied at 9 after ten minutes of action. Latvia opened the second period with five points in a row to surge ahead. Les Bleus answered with a 7:0 run late in the half to surge ahead 22:21. France tipped off the second half with a 12:0 run to clear off. They led throughout the quarter and entered the fourth frame up by 15 points 43:28. Ojars Silins (201-F-93) cut the distance to 10 points at the beginning of the fourth quarter but France quickly restored a safe cushion and cruised to the victory at the end. Jean-Charles Livio (204-F/C-93) accounted for 11 points and 8 rebounds in the win. Ojars Silins replied with 15 points for Latvia. Janis Berzins (201-F/G-93, agency: Players Group) netted 13 points in the losing effort.

Group D
Italy - Russia 89-48
Italy registered the first win at the U18 European Championship. The Azzurri breezed past Russia for 1-0 record in Group D. Amedeo Della Valle (193-G-93) scored 20 points to lead Italy. Italy started the game strong. They recorded a 19:9 lead midway through the first period. The Azzurri unloaded 27 points in the frame to ensure a 14-point lead. Italy opened the second quarter on a 7:1 run to deepen the damage. The Azzurri arrived at halftime up by as many as 23 points 49:26. Italy kept their opponents at bay throughout the third quarter. They posted a 75:41 lead at the final intermission. Italy limited Russia to just 7 points in the fourth quarter to rally to a confident win at the end. Francesco Veccia (190-G-93) produced 18 points in the victory. Raphael Gaspardo (204-F-93) added 13 points for Italy. Gleb Goldyrev (200-F-93) replied with 19 points and 7 rebounds for Russia. Pavel Khrebtov (197-F-93) had 7 points in defeat.

Ukraine - Lithuania 51-84
Lithuania opened title defence with U18 European Championship with a comfortable win over Ukraine. Arturas Gudaitis (208-C-93) knocked down 14 points to lead the Baltic team to the starting win in Group D. Lithuania used a 13:0 run midway through the opening quarter to clear off. They ensured a 28:13 advantage at the first break. Lithuania tipped off the second frame with 12 unanswered points to boost the margin to 27 points. Lithuania eased to a 47:22 lead at the interval. They maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. Ukraine faced a massive 39:70 deficit at the final break. Lithuania limited their opponents to 12 points in the final stanza and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Simonas Kymantas (204-C/F-93), Osvaldas Olisevicius (196-F-93) and Tauras Jogela (201-F-93) nailed 12 points each for the winning team. Klym Artamonov (176-G-93) and Danylo Zuikov (185-PG-94) finished with 15 points each for Ukraine.



Div.C standings
Standings
1. San Marino.2-0
2. Wales2-0
3. Andorra1-1
4. Moldova1-2
5. Gibraltar0-3


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20   


M-Standings - Division B
Standings Div.B
Group E
1. Georgia3-0
2. Estonia2-1
3. Denmark1-2
4. Bulgaria0-3
Group F
1. Belgium3-0
2. Czech Rep.2-1
3. Bosnia1-2
4. Portugal0-3
Group G 9-16 places
1. Poland2-1
2. Slovakia2-1
3. Romania1-2
4. Holland1-2
Group H 9-16 places
1. U.Kingdom2-1
2. Finland2-1
3. Israel2-1
4. Iceland0-3
Group I 17-22 places
1. Hungary2-0
2. FYR Macedo.1-1
3. Switzerlan.0-2
Group J 17-22 places
1. Belarus2-0
2. Norway1-1
3. Luxembourg.0-2


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


U18: Balanced Serbia steamroll past Finland - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U18 - Finland U18 101:49

Serbia registered the first win at the U18 European Championship in Poland. They trounced Finland in Group B opener. Stefan Popovski-Turanjanin (201-F-93, agency: Beo Basket) netted 22 points to lead the Balkan side.
Serbia dominated from start to finish. They posted a 24:12 lead after ten minutes. Steady Serbia maintained the pressure as they piled up a 47:24 halftime lead. Serbia never slowed down in the third quarter. They arrived at the final break up by as many as 37 points. Finland did not manage to slow their opponents down a bit as Serbia coasted to the victory at the end. Nemanja Krstic (198-F-93) scored 11 points, while six players scored 8 points each in the victory. Joonas Caven (203-C/F-93) answered with 22 points for Finland. Kalle Naapi (187-G-93) delivered 11 points in the loss.

Serbia U18: Stefan Popovski-Turanjanin 22, Nemanja Krstic 11
Finland U18: Joonas Caven 22, Kalle Naapi 11


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


U18: France prevail against Latvia in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
France U18 - Latvia U18 66:46

France opened their U18 European Championship campaign with victory. They outlasted Latvia to gain the first win in Group C. William Howard (201-F-93) and Ulysse Adjagba (185-PG-93) stepped up with 14 points each to lead the effort.
France and Latvia stayed close in a low-scoring first period. The teams were tied at 9 after ten minutes of action. Latvia opened the second period with five points in a row to surge ahead. Les Bleus answered with a 7:0 run late in the half to surge ahead 22:21. France tipped off the second half with a 12:0 run to clear off. They led throughout the quarter and entered the fourth frame up by 15 points 43:28. Ojars Silins (201-F-93) cut the distance to 10 points at the beginning of the fourth quarter but France quickly restored a safe cushion and cruised to the victory at the end. Jean-Charles Livio (204-F/C-93) accounted for 11 points and 8 rebounds in the win. Ojars Silins replied with 15 points for Latvia. Janis Berzins (201-F/G-93, agency: Players Group) netted 13 points in the losing effort.

France U18: William Howard 14, Ulysse Adjagba 14, Jean-Charles Livio 11
Latvia U18: Ojars Silins 15, Janis Berzins 13


Bryant Smith close to stay with Chalon - by Eurobasket News
According to Catch-and-shoot, Bryant Smith (196-G/F-77, agency: SportsTalent, college: Auburn) is close to stay with Chalon. The American SG/SF joined them last summer from Keravnos Strovolou. For 33 games in ProA Smith had 4.7 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 1.3 apg. He helped Chalon win the French Cup and also to reach the Finals of Semaine des As. In 2009/10, Smith shined with 17.8 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 1.3 apg for six EuroChallenge games with Keravnos. They reached Semifinals on Cyprus and Smith was named Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League Honorable Mention -10. Before Keravnos, Smith played for Cocodrilos de Caracas, Apollon, Reggio Emilia and Benetton. He also has experience from Lukoil Akademik Sophia winning two championship titles in Bulgaria. They also celebrated twice in Bulgarian Cup. In 2007, Smith won the Italian Cup with Benetton Treviso. He played for Keravnos also in 2007/08 season and was named Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League Import Player of the Year.

Sacha Massot returns to Antibes - by Eurobasket News
Sacha Massot (204-C/F-83, agency: LBM Management) will stay with Antibes for the next season. The Belgian big guy joined the club last summer averaging 13.1 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists for 28 games in ProB. Eurobasket awarded Massot with All-French ProB Center of the Year -11. In May this year Masson moved to Charleroi and helped them to defend the championship title. For eight games he had 5 ppg and 4.1 rpg. Sacha Massot was a member of Charleroi from 2003 to 2007 and after that from 2008 to 2010. They were champions in 2004, 2009, 2010 and this year as well. In 2009/10 season Massot registered 4 ppg and 3.3 rpg for the club. He also has experience from Pepinster. Sacha Massot is a former member of the Belgian National Team. He played for them in 2006, 2007, 2009 and 2010.

Jeremy Nzeulie signs with Bordeaux - by Eurobasket News
Jeremy Nzeulie (187-G-91) signs with Bordeaux for the 2011/2012 season. The French 1991 year-born Guard comes from JSF Nanterre.
Jeremy Nzeulie started his career in 2008-2009 for JSF Nanterre (ProB). In 2009-2010 for JSF Nanterre (ProB) he averged 0.9ppg. The last season for JSF Nanterre (ProB) after 28 games his stats read 1.6ppg.
For his Awards/Achievements he reached French ProB Semifinals -10 and became French ProB Champion -11. He became also French ProB Regular Season Champion -11.
Jeremy Nzeulie recorded 9 points at the Regular Season Round 34. Maurienne upset Nanterre 94-87, trailing by 8 points after three quarters before their 30-15 charge. Aix-Maurienne made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Jeremy Nzeulie collected 9 points and 5 rebounds in the losing effort.


Le Havre lands Greg Jenkins - by Eurobasket News
Gregory Jenkins (206-F/C-82, college: Iona) is a new member of Le Havre. The American big guy signed a deal for the next season. He spent the last one in Portugal with Sport Lisboa Benfica. Jenkins helped them reach the Portuguese league Finals. He had 9.7 ppg and 4.6 rpg for 33 games. In EuroChallenge, he added 14 ppg and 5.5 rpg for 13 games. Gregory Jenkins played for the Deutsche Bank Skyliners two years ago. He had 6.4 ppg and 4.4 rpg for them in Germany. Jenkins was their member also in 2008/09. Before that, he played for Padeborn and Greek Iraklis. Gregory Jenkins is a University of Iona product, where he graduated in 2005. He had 15.7 ppg and 6.3 rpg as a senior.

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  GEORGIA   


U18: Hungary got their European Championship campaign off to a successful start - by Eurobasket News
Hungary U18-Georgia U18 69:41

Hungary got their European Championship campaign off to a successful start in Varna. The team overcame Georgia 69:41 in the first game of Group A campaign.
Lolishvili gave Georgia the only lead in the game at 5:4. Hungary immediately replied with 6-0 run and then had 15:11 at the end of the frame. Nadiradze and Irakli Mikeladze (179-PG-94) cut it to 19:17, while Laszlo Polyak (190-G-93) made a jump shot for 32:21. He was also the first one to open the scoring account in the second half for 34:21. Hungary closed an 9-0 run as Nagy brought 41:21 midway thought the quarter. After 25-9 in the period, Hungary reached 57:30 after thirty minutes thanks to a far shot of Nagy. The winners also added 12-11 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Adam Kovacs (193-G-93) and Peter Jakab (187-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 12 points each, while Laszlo Polyak posted 10 and Marton Varga (203-C/F-94) netted 7. Aleksandre Chochia (185-F-93) posted 8, points in defeat, whilst Beka Burjanadze (201-F-94) and Irakli Mikeladze delivered 7 apiece.

Hungary U18: Adam Kovacs 12, Peter Jakab 12, Laszlo Polyak 10, Marton Varga 7
Georgia U18: Aleksandre Chochia 8, Beka Burjanadze 7, Irakli Mikeladze 7



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  GERMANY   


U18: Germany hold off Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Germany U18 - Turkey U18 68:66

Germany eked out a tough win against Turkey in the first game of the U18 European Championship for both teams. Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) scored 15 points to lead the effort. Turkey and Germany stayed close in the first quarter. Ozen and Tekin capped the period with four points in a row as Turkey posted an 18:13 lead at the first break. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 5 points 37:32. Germany opened the second half on a 10:0 run and surged ahead. Eruklu answered with two triples as Turkey regained the lead. Besnik Bekteshi immediately stepped up with back-to-back trebles of his own as roller-coaster action continued. Germany arrived at the final intermission up by seven points 57:50. Turkey managed to get within four points with under three minutes remaining in regulation 60:64. Tayfun Erulku (188-G/F-94) dragged the Turkish team within three points 62:65 with two minutes to go. Berkay Candan (205-F-93) and Kenan Sipahi (192-G-95) put Turkey within two with 36 seconds to go. Haukohl missed a jumper but Germany grabbed an offensive rebound and gave no chance for Turkey. Dennis Schroeder (184-G-93) notched 13 points, while Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) added 11 points in the winning effort. Berkay Candan answered with 16 points for Turkey. Kenan Sipahi nailed 15 points in the loss.

Germany U18: Besnik Bekteshi 15, Dennis Schroeder 13, Bogdan Radosavljevic 11
Turkey U18: Berkay Candan 16, Kenan Sipahi 15


Mr Energizer Bryce Taylor Get Contract Extension With Alba Berin While Julius Jenkins Says Adios - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) who had come at the start of the 2010-2011 Beko BBL season to Alba Berlin and was seen more as a 11th or 12 man quickly made himself to one of the fan favorites and into one of Muli Katzurins role players that he couldnt resist bringing for many minutes each game will play for Alba Berlin next season getting a one year contract extension, while Beko BBL allstar Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) leaves Alba Berlin after 5 happy years. Taylor who is a 24 yera old 196cm guard that is the son of ex NBA player Brian Taylor likes to do acrobatic dunks over Predrag Suput played college ball at Orgeon and played in Italy and 2 years ago in Bonn is happy to be returning back to the Spree. 'I am happy to have the chnace to play for Alba Berlin again. Belrin is like a second home for me. Despite not winning the title, it was a great experience for me. I want to add to that success and do it better this season', expressed Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports).Last season for Alba Berlin,Taylor played EuroCup: 11 games: 7.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 83.9%; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 5 games: 0.8ppg; German League: 49 games: 7.8ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 76.0%. 'Bryce became an important part of our team with his play and thrille dthe fans with his style. We are happy that we could hold him', stressed Alba Berlin team manager Mithat Demirel Rumours of Taylor going to Frankfurt are now erased. 'I like the energy, his zeal and his many basketball qualties. He is still young and not at the end of his development yet', stressed Alba Berlin head coach Gordon Herbert

Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) decided it was the time for a new start else where as he didn't get an offer from Alba Berlin to remain. He came to Alba Berlin in 2006 and played a total of 254 games for the 8 time Beko BBL champion and 193 Beko BBL games. In this time, he achieved German Bundesliga Champion -08 (Finals MVP), German Bundesliga Cup Winner -09 (FinalFour MVP), German Bundesliga Regular Season Champion -07, 08, 09, German Bundesliga All-Star Game -08 (MVP), 09, 11, German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -08, German Bundesliga Semifinals -09, EuroCup Finalist -10, and German Bundesliga Finalist -11.Last season, he played for Alba Berlin German League: 44 games: 14.2ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 79.9%; EuroCup: 11 games: 12.0ppg, 1.5rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 82.6%; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 5 games: Score-4 (17.6ppg), 2.4rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-2 (1.8spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 72.7%. 'One has to accept the decision of Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) to leave after 5 years. He seems to have taken a higher better offer. He had been an important protaganist in the Alba Berlin game in the last years. We thank him and wish him the best in the future and his family all the best', stressed Mithat Demirel

Source: Alba Berlin

FC Bayern Munich Go on Basketball Shopping Spree Picking Up Robin Benzing, Je Kel Foster And Sharrod Ford - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
It might not be the same as shopping on Maximilian street in Munich, or on Madison Avenue in New York City, but FC Bayern Munich went on their own shopping spree on their own Sabener street announcing at a press conference that German national player Robin Benzing (208-F-89), and Americans Je Kel Foster and Sharrod Ford (206-F/C-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Clemson) will lace up their sneakers for the most famous German sporting team FC Bayern Munich. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) had been rumored since months of coming on board since Dirk Bauermann has been a strong supporter of him and his agent is sport director Marko Pesic. Benzing is a 22 year old 208cm power forward from Seeheim-Jugenheim,Germany. He is a big forward who can play in both positions as he has the size and the shooting skills too. His game looks like his country-mate Jan Jagla, he is a bit lighter than the German international, and is playing mostly within the wing. He is amazingly good ball handler for his size and he can attack the basket going both ways. H eplayed for ratiopharm Ulm the last two seasons. Last season with Ulm,he was the top scoring German in the Beko BBL playing 33 games: 15.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 77.2%. The season before in Ulm, he played : 33 games: 12.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT-3 (84.7%).Benzing started his basketball career with TV Langen cadet team - SC Gergstrabein 2004. He played for TV Langen until 2009. In his last season there, he played 25 games: Score-4 (18.7ppg), 4.4rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 80.1%. Awards/Achievements in the basketball career of Benzing have been German U16 National Team -05, German U18 National Team -05-07, International Tournament in Mannheim (Unofficial World Championships U18) -06: 6 games: 6.7ppg, 3.2rpg, 2FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 64.7%, European Championships U18 in Amaliada (Greece) -06: 8 games: 7.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 2FGP: 54.1%, 3FGP: 40%, FT: 75%, German Bundesliga U-19 All-Star Game -07, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga South Newcomer of the Year -07, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga South All-Newcomers Team -07, European Championships U18 in Madrid (Spain) -07: 8 games: 9.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 40.4%, 3FGP: 19.4%, German Bundesliga U-20 All-Star Game -08, German U20 National Team -08-09, European Championships U20 Division B in Targu Mures (Romania) -08: (Champion): 8 games: 11.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 72.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 95.0%, German A2 National Team -08, Domegge International Tournment for U20 National Teams Top Scorer -09, European Championships U20 in Rhodos (Greece) -09: 5 games: Score-1 (22.2ppg), 5.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 80.0%, Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 3rd Team -09, German National Team -09-10, European Championships in Poland -09: 6 games: 5.5ppg, 1.7rpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 91.7%, Adidas Eurocamp in Treviso All-Star Team -10, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Newcomer of the Year -10, Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Domestic Players Team -10, World Championships in Turkey -10: 5 games: 4.6ppg, 1.4rpg, and German Bundesliga All-Star Game -11.

FC Bayern Munich also announced that Je Kel Foster will play for the team this season. Foster is a 27 year old 191 cm combo guard from Natchez, Mississippi with Beko BBL experience. He is a natural born leader. Runs the show as a point guard that can score. He thinks to run the offensive first. His long arms and his quickness allows for him to cover the entire floor defensively while also giving him to length to finish over taller players. He is an excellent 3 pt shooter. Last season, he played for Vanoli-Braga Cremona (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 29 games: 12.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.1apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 71.8%. He played at Ohio St. (NCAA) and in his senior year 2005-2006 played 32 games: 12.2ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.1apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 80%. He started his professional basketball acreer in 2006 for EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 42 games: 13.2ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.5apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 45.3%, 3FGP: 34.0%, FT: 75.3%. In 2007-2008, he skipped ove rthe boarder to France to play for Paris-Levallois (France-ProA, starting five): 30 games: 14.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.9apg, Steals-2 (2.4spg), 2FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 65.6%. He played for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg from 2008-2010. In 2009-2010, he played Euroleague: 10 games: 12.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 63.3%; German League: 37 games: 13.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 73.0%. Awards/Achievements in his career have been Big Ten Regular Season Champion -06, Big Ten Tournament Finalist -06, All-Big Ten 2nd Team -06, Big Ten All-Defensive Team -06, USBWA All-NCAA District V Team -06, German Bundesliga All-Star Game -07, German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -07, German Bundesliga Regular Season Runner-Up -07, German Bundesliga Semifinals -07, German Bundesliga Champion -09, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga 2nd Team -09, German Bundesliga Regular Season Champion -10, and Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Honorable Mention -10.

The team also brought in Sharrod Ford (206-F/C-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Clemson) who has played in the Beko BBL years ago with Alba Berlin. Ford is a 29 year old 206cm power forward/center that was born in Washington D.C. A great intimador inside, thanks to great timing and leaping ability. His great athletic skills allow him to be good rebounder and a spectacular slasher, but he showed to be very good even in all the other parts of the game, like passing and ball-handling. Last season, he played for Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 30 games: Score-5 (15.8ppg), Reb-1 (10.4rpg), 1.6spg, Blocks-1 (2.3bpg), FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 67.9%. Ford started his basketball career at Clemson (NCAA) playing there from 2001-2005. In 2005, he started his professional basketball career playing for the Phoenix Suns (NBA): Regular Season: 3 games: 1.3ppg, in Jan.'06 moved to Fayetteville Patriots (D-League, starting five): 15 games: 13 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.4 bpg and 1.1 apg, next month joined ALBA Berlin (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 21 games: 8.9ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.4bpg, 2FGP: 58.9%.In 2006-2007, he played for ALBA Berlin (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): German League: 36 games: 11.8ppg, 6.9rpg, Blocks-2 (2.3bpg), 2FGP: 56.6%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 63.4%; ULEB Cup: 12 games: 9.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.1spg, Blocks-1 (2.5bpg), 2FGP: 51.2%, 3FGP: 25%, FT: 57.9%. Ford played in Italy three of the last four years. In 2007-2008, he played for Premiata Montegranaro (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 39 games: 14.2ppg,Reb-1 (9.8rpg), 1.1spg, Blocks-1 (1.5bpg), 2FGP-2 (67.4%), 3PT:23.1%, FT:63.6%. In 2008-2009, he played for La Fortezza Bologna (Italy-SerieA, starting five): Italian League: 34 games: 11.4ppg, Reb-1 (9.5rpg), 2.0spg, Blocks-1 (1.7bpg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 60.2%; EuroChallenge: 16 games: 13.5ppg, 6.8rpg, Blocks-1 (2.0bpg), FGP: 63.6%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 63.6%. In 2009-2010, he played for Spartak St.Petersburg (Russia-A Superleague, starting five), Russian League: 4 games: 7.8ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.0spg; in Jan.'10 moved to Carife Ferrara (Italy-SerieA, starting five)Fiba Arbitration Tribunal FAT: 0138/10: 17 games: Score-4 (16.6ppg), Reb-1 (9.8rpg), 2.1spg, Blocks-1 (3.1bpg), FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 65.7%. Awards/Achievements in his career have been HS first-team All-Metro by Washngton Post -00, United States team in the Global Games in Dallas -01
All-ACC 3rd Team -05, ACC All-Defensive Honorable Mention -05, German Bundesliga Cup Winner -06, German Bundesliga Regular Season Champion -06, 07
German Bundesliga Finalist -06, German Bundesliga All-Star Game -07, Eurobasket.com All-ULEB Cup 2nd Team -07, Eurobasket.com ULEB Cup All-Imports Team -07, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga 2nd Team -07, Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Defensive Team -07, Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA 2nd Team -08
Eurobasket.com Italian SerieA All-Imports Team -08, 10, 11, Eurobasket.com Italian SerieA All-Defensive Team -08, 10, Italian Cup Finalist -09, EuroChallenge Champion -09
Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA Center of the Year -10, 11, Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA 1st Team -10, 11, and Italian Cup Semifinals -11


Paris Horne signs deal with BG Gottingen - by Eurobasket News
Paris Horne (191-G-87) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American guard penned a deal with the German team BG Gottingen. They will compete in 1.Bundesliga. Paris Horne is a product of the St. Johns University, where he graduated few months ago. He appeared 33 times for his school as a senior averaging 7.9 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.6 assists. Horne finished tied for second all-time (Felipe Lopez) in career three-pointers made with 148. In 2009/10 season, Horne collected 9.2 ppg and 3.1 rpg for his school. His sophomore year was the best one for Horne at St. Johns. He exploded with 14.6 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 2.2 apg at that time. It was a huge improvement after 5.1 ppg and 2.3 rpg as a freshman.

Jason Boone Follows John Patrick To S.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


First it was John Little and now its Jason Boone (198-F/C-85, college: New York U.) that will strap on a s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg jersey this upcoming season coming from BG Goettingen. In the last weeks, rumours had been swirling about Boone possibly joining the Bavaria team after he had taken part in a basketball tournament for the s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg in Japan and today the club finally made it official welcoming the New York native to the team. Boone is a 25 year old 203cm power forward/center that grew upin Sugar Loaf, New York that plays like a player that is 210cm, rebounds strongly and has the charachter of a never die hard worker that any head coach would love to have on their team. Boone is one of the very few players that made the jump from Regionaliga basketball in Germany to the big time in the Beko BBL as John Patrick discovered the American and hauled him to Goettingen in 2008. Last season, Boone played German League: 37 games: 8.5ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 59.8%, FT: 34.9%; EuroCup: 14 games: 9.1ppg, 6.2rpg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 59.8%, FT: 36.0% Boone played a total of 125 games for BG Goettingen and won the Eurochallenge in 2010 and is happy about making the next step in his basketball career. 'Wurzburg is a basketball city with a long tradition and great fans. You can see how involved the club and fans are with their success the last years. I am thrilled to be a part of this now.I want to establish myself as one of the dominant centers in the league. To this, I need the support from people that know me and want the same as me. I am working harder than ever to be top fit. Last season, I didn't start so well into the season, because of small injuries and not so intensive off season. I don't want that to happen again', stressed Jason Boone. Boone started his basketball career in 2003 for New York U. (NCAA3) and played there until 2007. In 2007, he came to Germany and played for SSV Lokomotive Bernau (Germany-Regionalliga, starting five): 17 games: 17.1ppg, FT: 52.2%, before moving to BG Goettingen. 'Jason will make the next step here. He is already very motivated here. We will have a good combination with Patrick Flomo, Oliver Clay and him under the basket and have power. He is very intelligent, has a good charachter and hard worker on the court. He brings a certain toughness level that each coach and team needs in this league', stressed s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg head coach John Patrick. Awards/Achievements in hiscareer have been NCAA D3 All-East Region 1st Team -06, 07, NCAA D3 All-East Region Player of the Year -06, 07, NCAA D3 All-American Third Team (by d3hoops.com) -07, NCAA D3 Preseason All-American Second Team (by d3hoops.com) -07, Eurobasket.com German All-Regionalliga North First Team -08, German Bundesliga Regular Season Runner-Up -09, EuroChallenge Champion -10, Eurocup Quarterfinals -11, and Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Defensive Team -11

Source: s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg

Latvian Point Guard Krists Piternieks Moves To BG Karlsruhe - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

BG Karlsruhe has brought some Latvian flavor to the Baden city bringing in Krists Piternieks (202-G-87, agency: Dynamics Global Management). Piternieks is a 23 year old 202cm point guard that was born in Riga. He is a very quick and athletic guard who has yet a good court vision and passing skills. Can spend time in 1 and 2 positions. Last season, he played for Latvijas Universitate (LBL, starting five): 12 games: 9.7ppg, 5.9rpg, 3.2apg, 0.8bpg, FG: 52.1%, in Feb.'11 moved to Penne (Italy-D dilettanti). 'He is 202cm and 90 kilos which I see as an advantage. He can play three positions and makes the game very flexible. He could be a very important puzzle piece in our planning. He is a big guard where you think of a young Dejan Bodiroga. Despite his youth, he has a lot of experience from various European leagues', stressed BG Karlsruhe sport director Torsten Daume Piternieks started his basketball career in 2002 for Ridzene/Jaunsardze cadet team. He then played for BJSS Ridzene (LBAL2) form 2003-2005. In 2005, he played for Barons/BJSS Ridzene (LBL, starting five): LBL: 32 games 14.6ppg 8.3rpg 3.7apg 1.6spg; Latvian league: 6 games 11.7ppg 8.2rpg 4.5apg 1.5spg; played also at BK Barons/LU Riga: Baltic League: 11 games: 0.7ppg, 1.5rpg . In 2006-2007, he played for Panellinios Athens (Greece-A1, starting five): Jan.'07 loadned to ASK Riga (LBL D1): FIBA EuroCup: 1 game: 0pts, 2reb; LBL: 4 games 2.3ppg 3.3rpg 2.5apg 1.3spg.From 2007-2009, he gathered further basketball experience playing for BK Keizarmezs Riga (LBL). In 2009-2010, he played for BK Barons Riga (LBL): 5 games: 3.8ppg, 1.8rpg; played also at Barons/Ridzene (LBL D2, starting five): 13 games: 9.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 16.0%, FT: 62.0%, then moved to C.B. Tobarra (1 Nacional): 15.0ppg, 8.7rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, 0.9bpg, FG: 53,0%, 3PT: 42,2%, FT: 74,5%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Latvian U16 National Team -02,03, Latvian U18 National Team -05, Latvian Basketball Amateur League 2 Champion -04, Latvian Junior League Silver Medallist -04,Latvian League Finalist -05, European Championships U18 in Belgrade -05: 8 games: 10.5ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 38.3%, 3FGP: 34.6%, FT: 72.4%, Latvian Junior League Champion -05, Latvian Basketball Amateur League 1 Silver Medallist 05, Latvian LBL All-Star Game -06, 07, Baltic League Qarterfinals -06, Latvian U20 National Team -06, European Championships U20 in Izmir (Turkey) -06: 1 game: 0pts, 1reb, Baltic League Quarterfinals -07, Latvian League Champion - 07, and Latvian League Regular Season Runner-Up -07

Source: BG Karlsruhe

Andrej Mangold Moves To The Telekom Baskets Bonn - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The Telekom Baskets Bonn have picked up some German insurrance signing Andrej Mangold (190-G-87) to a contract. Mangold is a 24 year old 190cm combon guard. He played for the Artland Dragons last season, but only seeing limited garbage minutes playing 26 games: 0.5ppg; also a license to play for SC Rasta Vechta (ProB): 2 games: 1.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg. 'He is a good addition at the small positions, but because of his athletic skill can play the wing. He has developed the last years and brings the needed mentality to fight for his minutes in the rotation. He showed in the second league that he can penetrate. He showed with Artland that he always gives 100% and plays with a lot of intensity in practice. We will be bale to give alot of pressure on defense with him and Daniel Hain', added Telekom Baskets Bonn head coach Michael Koch Mangold started his basketball career in 2004 with TK Hannover (Regionalliga). He then played for the Oldenburger TB (Regionalliga) from 2005-2007. He then played for Muenchen Basket (ProB): 29 games: 8.8ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.7apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 58.1% in 2007-2008. The next season, he played for FC Bayern Muenchen (ProA), left in Oct.'08, in Nov.'08 moved to Telemotive Muenchen (ProB, starting five): 22 games: 8.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 64.2%. In 2009-2010, he played for UBC Hannover Tigers (ProA, starting five): 25 games: 8.5ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 69.1%. 'I want to thank the whole team of the Artland Dragons especially the coaches that gave me the chance to develop further. I also thank the fans for supporting me. It was a great year with many highs. I would do this experience anytime again, but the current situation is better', stressed Andrej Mangold (190-G-87). Awards/Achievements in his career have been German A2 National Team -08, German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -11, and German Bundesliga Semifinals -11.

Source: Telekom Baskets Bonn

Murat Didin Performs Turkish Magic Making Aubrey Reese A Gloria Giant Duesseldorf - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
If there is one thing that one should never underestimate than it is Gloria Giants Duesseldorf head coach Murat Didin, because sometimes it seems like he could easily moonlight as a magican or jump in as David Blaines side kick, because at times he is able to perform wonders like nobody else. If all the Doner fast food places had shut down in Germany, Didin would be sure to find a Doner somewhere or find a player like Reese that seemed like a reach for the PRO A. According to www.derwesten.de he was able to bring in Aubrey Reese (183-G-78, agency: Interperformances, college: Murray St.) to the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf. Didin had worked together with Reese in Istanbul and Frankfurt and always kept good contact with him. Reese is a 32 year old 183cm guard from Auburn, Alabama. Last season, he was battling injuries and only played a few months in Turkey for Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyesi (Turkey-TBL, starting five), left in Nov.'10: 4 games: 12.3ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.0apg. Didin was able to find a sponsor that would secure the extra money for Reese and Didin to be reunited again. 'I am happy that we were able to make this contract with Aubrey. We will send him the contract as we have his word that he is coming', stated Gloria Giants Duesseldorf head coach Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances )

Aubrey Reese (183-G-78, agency: Interperformances, college: Murray St.) started his basketball career in 1996 for Murray St. (NCAA) and played there until 2000. He started his professional basketball career in 2000 for Idaho Stampede (CBA): 24 games: 6.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 0-10, FT: 73.9%. In 2001-2002, he came to Europe and played for Shakhtyor Irkutsk (Russia-A Superleague, starting five): 24 games: 16,5ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.2apg, 1.4spg. In 2002-2003, he played for Roanne (France-ProA, starting five): 26 games: 19.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 5.2apg. In 2003-2004, he played for Tekelspor Istanbul (Turkey-D1, starting five): 16 games: 19.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.2apg. In 2004-2005, he played for Haifa/Nesher BC (Israel-Premier League, starting five): 20 games: 18.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.3apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 52.8%, 3FGP: 30.4%. In 2005-2006, he returned back to Turkey to play for Tekelspor Istanbul (Turkey-D1, starting five): 34 games: 18.0ppg, 3.6rpg, Assists-3 (4.8apg), 1.7spg, 2FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 78.0%. In 2006-2007, he played for Murat Didin for Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul (Turkey-D1, starting five): ULEB Cup: 10 games: 18.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.2apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 40.5%, 3FGP: 32.7%, FT: 79.5%; Turkish League: 25 games: 15.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 4.0apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 74.0%. In 2007-2008, he played for Azovmash Mariupol (Ukraine-Superleague): ULEB Cup: 9 games: 2.6ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.7apg, 2FGP: 30.0%, 3PT: 11.1%, FT: 75.0%, in Feb.'08 moved to Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyesi (Turkey-TBL): 10 games: 17.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.5apg, 2FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 71.7%. In 2008-2009, he played for Aliaga Petkim (Turkey-TBL), left in April '09: 21 games: Score-3 (20.4ppg), 4.4rpg, Assists-5 (5.0apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 76.7%. In 2009-2010, Didin and Reese were reunited again in Frankfurt as he played for the Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five), injured in Feb.'10: 40 games: 12.7ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 72.9%. Awards/Achievements in his career have been Most Valuable Player of the OVC Tournament -99, OVC 1st Team -99,00OVC Player of the Year -00, USBL Player of the Year -01, Eurobasket.com Turkish League All-Imports 2nd Team -04, Eurobasket.com Turkish League All-Imports Team -06, and German Bundesliga Finalist -10.

Source: www.derwesten.de

Radenko Pilcevic Joins The LTi Giessen 46ers - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
In the last two years, the LTi Giessen 46ers have had joy picking up ex MBC players as last season they got Giorgi Gamqrelidze, yesterday Wayne Bernard and today Radenko Pilcevic (188-G-86). Pilcevic is a 24 year old 188cm point guard from Serbia that will play his third season in the Beko BBL. He played for The Mitteldeutscher BC the last two seasons and last year played 27 games: 7.4ppg, 1.4rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 37.7%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 76.1%. His two strongest games last season was netting 19 points a piece against Artland and Braunschweig. LTi Giessen 46er head coach Bjoern Harmsen knows the small Serb the best. 'For me as a coach it is important to get a point guard that I can trust 100% and who will spread my philosophy on the court.Radenko was the missing piece to the puzzle.He will find our options on the court and use them. He had a tough season last year with injuries, but fought until the end. I am happy to be able to work with him again and give him control on the court', stressed Bjoern Harmsen . Pilcevic started his professional basketball career in 2004 with KK Zeleznicar Cacak (1B).In 2005-2006, he played for Ribnica (1B, starting five). In 2006-2007, he played for KK Crnokosa Kosjeric. In 2007-2008, he played for roleter Naftagas Zrenjanin (B League, starting five), in April '08 moved to KK Borac Cacak (A League): Superleague: 13 games: 8.3ppg, 1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 52%, 3PT: 35%, FT: 93%, He moved from Masinac to Borac in April, no stats for A league. In 2008-2009,he played for KK Borac Cacak (A League): 31 games: 10.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 85.1%.

Source: LTi Gieen 46ers

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


Olympiakos officially signs Kyle Hines - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos officially signed Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86) for the next season. The American big guy confirmed it via his Twitter account. Kyle Hines spent last season in Germany with Brose Baskets Bamberg. He appeared 10 times in Euroleague with them averaging 12.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.1 block. In German league, Hines added 10.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 1.2 bpg in 46 games. He helped Bamberg to win the championship title and National Cup. Eurobasket awarded him with All-German Bundesliga 2nd Team -11. Kyle Hines was Eurobasket.com All-Italian Lega2 Center of the Year -10. He played for Prima Veroli and helped them to reach the LegaDue Finals. In 40 game Hines registered 18.5 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 3.5 spg and 1.6 bpg. Hines also played for Prima Veroli in 2008/09 season. He is a product of the University of North Carolina, Greensboro, where he graduated in 2008.

U18: Croatia overwhelm Greece in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U18 - Greece U18 61:45

Croatia opened win count at U18 European Championship. They held off Greece in Group A. Marko Ramljak (201-F/G-93, agency: Interperformances) scored 16 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the winners.
Croatia capped the opening quarter with five points in a row to take a 12:7 lead. Mislav Brzoja (192-F/G-94) and Stipe Krstanovic (201-F/C-93) made it 27:15 for Croatia midway through the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 16 points 32:16. Stipe Krstanovic and Mislav Brzoja stretched the lead to 21 points midway through the third term. Croatia posted a 45:28 advantage with one quarter remaining. Marko Ramljak knocked down 7 points in the fourth quarter to pace Croatia to a comfortable win at the end. Mislav Brzoja had 12 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists for the Croats. Stipe Krstanovic added 11 points in the victory. Emmanouil Tselentakis (195-F-93) answered with 11 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis (200-F-93) had 10 points in the loss.

Croatia U18: Marko Ramljak 16+10 boards, Mislav Brzoja 12+10 boards, Stipe Krstanovic 11
Greece U18: Emmanouil Tselentakis 11, Giannoulis Larentzakis 10


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  GUYANA   


Guyana jets off to the CBC Championships ; unveils final roster - by Kristian Santiago
Guyana National Team 2011 :

steve Neils jr
Dwayne Roberts (C)
Akeem Kanhai - Ravens
Kurt Elias (C)
Ryan Gullen (C)
Ryan Stephney - Ravens
Rodwell Fortune - Ravens
Royston Siland (C) - Courts Pacesetters
Shane Webster
Stephan Gillis - Courts Pacesetters
Niel Marks
Keron McKenzie (193-G-86, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment, college: Armstr.Atlantic)


Head Coach: Robert Cadogan



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  HOLLAND   


Magixx, extends Jeroen van Vught and tabs Craig Osaikhwuwuomwan - by Fred Roggen
Dutch guard Jeroen van Vugt (192-G-91) returns for one season at the Magixx playing for Kids rights. The guard will play as a backup point guard the upcoming season.
Magixx also announced the arrival of Dutch prospect forward/center Craig Osaikhwuwuomwam (196-F-90, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement), who signed a one-year deal. Osaikhwuwuomwam arrives from bankrupt ABC Amsterdam and averaged 3.6ppg and 3.5rpg last season.


ZZ Leiden signs small forward Jevohn Shepherd - by Fred Roggen
Dutch Champion ZZ Leiden signed its first new player for the upcoming season by adding small forward Jevohn Shepherd (196-F-86, college: Michigan), who arrives from German Deutsche Bank Skyliners. Jevohn Shepherd signed a ONE-year deal with the club. Last season he averaged 4.7ppg, 2.1rpg in 15 1.Bundesliga games.
The Canadian NT-player is an all-around player, who can defend multiple positions thanks to his combination of strength and quickness.


WCAA Giants, Inks prospect Dimeo van der Horst - by Fred Roggen
The technical staff of the WCAA Giants has succeeded to sign one of the greatest talents of Dutch basketball. WCAA Giants has officially announced the arrival of 20-year-old point guard Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) , who inked a one-year deal, the club confirmed Friday. Dimeo Van Der Horst arrives from ABC Amsterdam.
He averaged 10.2 points, 3.1 boards and 2.8 assists in 38 Dutch Basketball League games last season.

U18: Trailing 19 points in the second frame, Romania edged the Dutch side - by Eurobasket News
Romania U18-Netherlands U18 66:65

Trailing 19 points in the second frame, Romania edged the Dutch side in Division B of the U18 European Championship. Romania erupted with 27-12 in the third period for 66:65 win in Varna, Bulgaria.
The Dutch side began well with a 10-0 run setting the tone for a dominating first quarter. Hope nailed three for 25:10 at the end of the frame, but as it became clear after, it was not enough for the total success. Paul Candiff (184-G-93) increased to 35:16, but Romania was too far to give up. Andrei Petica (192-F-93) reduced to 40:26 and Stoicoviciu sent the squads to the lockers at 45:31. The third period was decisive in the game as Romania exploded with 27-12 in it. Andrei Petica gave them 46:45 lead and Paun delivered for 58:55. Romania led in the whole last quarter and only Mike Schilder (183-G-94)'s five points reduced the game to 66:65.
Andrei Petica paced all the winners with 24 points, while Alexandru Olah (209-C-93) collected 19 points and 11 rebounds. Paul Candiff and Mike Schilder finished the game with 17 points in the losing effort.

Romania U18: Andrei Petica 24, Alexandru Olah 19+11 rebs
Netherlands U18: Paul Candiff 17, Mike Schilder 17



Stepco BS Weert adds shooting guard Demario Anderson - by Fred Roggen
Stepco BS Weert has turned to DeMario Anderson (193-G-85, college: Quinnipiac) to play shooting guard, the club announced Thursday. DeMario Anderson arrives from Belgium Spotter Leuven , where his season was cut by injuries last season. He signed a one-year contract.
He recording 12.6 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game with Spotter Leuven during the 2009-2010 season. Anderson began his professional career in Belgium with Spotter Leuven in 2008 following a successful college basketball career at the Quinnipiac University.

Randy Wiel named new Rotterdam Basketbal College coach - by Fred Roggen
Rotterdam Basketbal College has begun its preparations for the upcoming season by naming former Dutch NT-coach Randy Wiel (agency: R.H.Consultancy ) as the new head coach.
Wiel, 60, arrives from EiffelTowers Den Bosch. Wiel coached EiffelTowers Den Bosch from 2004 till 2009 and led the team to two Dutch Championship ( 2006 and 2007) and won in 2008 the Dutch Cup. He is one of the most respected coaches in Holland.

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  HUNGARY   


Iran lose again to Hungary - by Eurobasket News
Hungary - Iran 81:69

Hungary celebrated the second straight win over Iran in the test series in Szombathely. This time Hungary claimed a 12-point win. Adam Hanga (201-G-89, agency: TSS Management) and Marton Bader (212-C-80, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) stepped up with 15 points each to pace the winners.
Hungary started the game strongly. They limited the Asian powerhouse to 12 points in the opening quarter to post an 8-point lead. Hungary maintained the lead in the second quarter. Moreover they boosted the margin to 18 points at the interval 43:25. Iran finally adjusted their rhythm in the third term. The visitors erupted for 24 points in the period to narrow the deficit. But Hungary picked up the slack in the final quarter and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Peter Lorant (207-F/C-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) accounted for 14 points in the victory. Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83) answered with 17 points for Iran. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) provided 13 points in the loss.

Hungary: Adam Hanga 15, Marton Bader 15, Peter Lorant 14
Iran: Samad Nikkhah 17, Hamed Afagh 13


Hungarian U18 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Adam Kovacs
Kovacs
Peter Jakab
Jakab
Szabolcs Nagy
Nagy
Levente Misek
Misek
Tamas Danko
Danko
#e#5
4 Adam Kovacs 193-G/F-93 Budafoki-Csepel Hungary
5 Laszlo Polyak 190-G-93 Marso-Vagep Hungary
6 Botond Nagy 173-PG-94 DEAC Hungary
7 Peter Jakab 187-G-93 Marso-Vagep Hungary
9 Soma Asztalos 185-G-93 DEAC Hungary
10 Szabolcs Nagy 196-F-93 DEAC Hungary
11 Levente Misek 196-G-93 Ujbuda TC Hungary
12 Akos Garamvolgyi 196-F-94 DEAC Hungary
13 Kristof Bognar 203-C/F-94 Falco-Szova Hungary
14 Tamas Danko 195-G/F-93 Palota Hungary
15 Marton Varga 203-C/F-94 Marso-Vagep Hungary
20 Laszlo Dobos 210-C-93 Ikaros Greece

Agoston Nagy Head Coach
Barna Donat Assistant


U18: Hungary got their European Championship campaign off to a successful start - by Eurobasket News
Hungary U18-Georgia U18 69:41

Hungary got their European Championship campaign off to a successful start in Varna. The team overcame Georgia 69:41 in the first game of Group A campaign.
Lolishvili gave Georgia the only lead in the game at 5:4. Hungary immediately replied with 6-0 run and then had 15:11 at the end of the frame. Nadiradze and Irakli Mikeladze (179-PG-94) cut it to 19:17, while Laszlo Polyak (190-G-93) made a jump shot for 32:21. He was also the first one to open the scoring account in the second half for 34:21. Hungary closed an 9-0 run as Nagy brought 41:21 midway thought the quarter. After 25-9 in the period, Hungary reached 57:30 after thirty minutes thanks to a far shot of Nagy. The winners also added 12-11 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Adam Kovacs (193-G-93) and Peter Jakab (187-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 12 points each, while Laszlo Polyak posted 10 and Marton Varga (203-C/F-94) netted 7. Aleksandre Chochia (185-F-93) posted 8, points in defeat, whilst Beka Burjanadze (201-F-94) and Irakli Mikeladze delivered 7 apiece.

Hungary U18: Adam Kovacs 12, Peter Jakab 12, Laszlo Polyak 10, Marton Varga 7
Georgia U18: Aleksandre Chochia 8, Beka Burjanadze 7, Irakli Mikeladze 7



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


Iran lose again to Hungary - by Eurobasket News
Hungary - Iran 81:69

Hungary celebrated the second straight win over Iran in the test series in Szombathely. This time Hungary claimed a 12-point win. Adam Hanga (201-G-89, agency: TSS Management) and Marton Bader (212-C-80, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) stepped up with 15 points each to pace the winners.
Hungary started the game strongly. They limited the Asian powerhouse to 12 points in the opening quarter to post an 8-point lead. Hungary maintained the lead in the second quarter. Moreover they boosted the margin to 18 points at the interval 43:25. Iran finally adjusted their rhythm in the third term. The visitors erupted for 24 points in the period to narrow the deficit. But Hungary picked up the slack in the final quarter and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Peter Lorant (207-F/C-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) accounted for 14 points in the victory. Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83) answered with 17 points for Iran. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) provided 13 points in the loss.

Hungary: Adam Hanga 15, Marton Bader 15, Peter Lorant 14
Iran: Samad Nikkhah 17, Hamed Afagh 13


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  ISRAEL   


Pursuit after D.J. Strawberry continues in Israel - by David Pick
With the NBA lockout still in session, many players study their next move before the league reopens its doors again. Despite potential NBA interest in free agents, players are expected to 'settle' on the European delight as their home away from home.

'Eurobasket' recently learned that one of the athletes who played overseas last season and is receiving lots of looks this summer is D.J. Strawberry, who is wanted in Israel by almost every top rated organization. Strawberry was the Hornets' final cut last year and has current interest from both the Spurs and Lakers; however, he is determined on playing this coming season and is getting heat from major Israeli clubs who shall remain anonymous for the moment but are in search of a talented and proven guard.

An ACC All-Defensive team, dynamic and versatile playmaker is what stands out while thinking of Strawberry. Last summer, the 26-year-old Maryland graduate played for the Los Angeles Lakers in Vegas, averaging 13 points in just over 26 minutes, resulting in Hapoel Jerusalem giving him a serious look before eventually deciding to go with Will Solomon. Strawberry first met his international challenge in 2008 and answered with a respective 14.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg and 1.2spg in the Eurocup games while playing for Italy's Bologna. Before being bought out by Rytas this past season, Strawberry excelled with D-League's Reno Bighorns and improved every aspect of his game, posting numbers of 14.1 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.

Strawberry's next move is to be determined shortly, as he exercises his Israelis options hoping reside in Israel.

Strawberry was drafted in 2007 by the Phoenix Suns with the 59th pick only to be traded a year later to the Houston Rockets where from there, he joined Italian club Fortitudo Bologna. In 2010, Strawberry was signed by the New Orleans Hornets to a non-guaranteed one-year deal and eventually finished last season in Lithuania playing for Lietuvos Rytas.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd
Follow Eurobasket on Twitter: @EurobasketNews




Financial Disaster in Hapoel Holon - by Carmel Drori
Israel's Hapoel Holon has been receiving several complements from the media in relation to their last few moves that included, appointing Pini Gershon as GM, Dan Shamir as the new coach and agreeing on terms with their first player of the 2011/12 season - Dan Grunfeld (198-F/G-84, college: Stanford).

Despite it seeming as if this financially struggling club is onto a new beginning, interesting information was reveled today (Thursday), that indicated that the organization has failed to live up to its agreements of paying its players. American players that is. Turns out that Holon's Israelis have received their pay check and the Americans are still pending.


'Several of us are still very upset and our families are currently struggling financially as a result of still not being paid our salaries from last season,' an anonymous player who was with the team last year told 'Eurobasket' adding, 'There's no excuse for such behavior and broken promises from an organization and its personnel.''

Players continue to feel like they have been lied to and it is has mentioned that their agents have been trying to contact the organization for some time now, 'Considering all of the work, sacrifices and attitude our team had by staying together and positive throughout the season, late payments is unacceptable. I can only hope that one day in the near future, they'll will live up to their promises to us players, and continue moving forward in the right direction'.

Team manager, Shlomo Margalit, announced his resignation today and told 'Eurobasket', 'The situation in Holon is unbearable. They owe me three months worth of salary. They also owe money to the team trainer, and former coach Franco. Holon made me a new offer recently saying that they will cover all my expenses including car gas and insurance, phone calls and cet' but I would not get a salary, something that I was not willing to agree with.'

An official statement from the team to 'Eurobasket' in regards to the article said: 'Hapoel Holon does not respond to comments made by anonymous players. regarding Shlomo, he is not continuing with the organization not because of financial reasons but because he did not like the teams offer that was presented to him.'

Assisted in preparing the article - David Pick



U20: Marcotullio brings the victory over Israel - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain U20-Israel U20 83:82

Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) brings the victory over Israel with the buzzer-beater as Great Britain edged Israel at the start of the Classification Round for 9-16 places in Sarajevo. Great Britain won 83:82 as both teams are with 1-1 records in Group H.
Alex Marcotullio brought 11:3 in the opening tip and Ryan Richards (212-C/F-91, agency: Interperformances) delivered for 23:9. The latter also closed the first period at 32:13 as Great Britain totally dominated the court. Thoseby scored for 41:15, but the intrigue was not over. Guy Lavie (188-PG-92) reduced to 44:27, while Bar Timor (192-G-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) closed the half at 52:38. With 17-12 in the third period Israel cut it to 64:55 entering the last stanza. With 3 minutes to go Guy Lavie tied the game at 72:72 and his another 5 points brought 79:74 for Israel. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) reduced to 81:82 at the every end and the final shot of Alex Marcotullio became the fantastic buzzer-beater.
Ryan Richards erupted with 32 points and 14 rebounds, while Alex Marcotullio netted 18. Devon Van Oostrum netted 12 and Lee Goldsbrough (205-F-91) scored 11. Guy Lavie ended up with 21 points in defeat and Bar Timor chipped in 16.

Great Britain U20: Ryan Richards 32+14 rebs, Alex Marcotullio 18, Devon Van Oostrum 12, Lee Goldsbrough 11
Israel U20: Guy Lavie 21, Bar Timor 16


Hapoel Galil/Gilboa negotiating with point guard Derek Glasser - by David Pick
With the Israeli list of free point guard agents running out, runner-up Hapoel Galil/Gilboa is trying to make the best out of a situation it has been unfamiliar with for a while lacking a leading Israeli PG.

Former national champion and the team's leading quarterback Gal Mekel, moved to Benetton Treviso while substitute Guni Israeli is exercising an offer from Hapoel Jerusalem. Now, Head Coach Lior Lubin is highly interested in American/Israeli point guard Derek Glasser, who graduated from Arizona State University and signed a one-year contract with Maccabi Haifa last season but was released without playing a single game due to a pre-season injury.

'Eurobasket' learned that Galil/Gilboa is negotiating with Glasser and offered him a two year deal, though, the player who will fully recover from his injury and be eligible to play in September, is still hesitant about his return to Israel as he has offers from teams in Italy and Cyprus.

Glasser, who was selected as a four-time All-America first-team guard by Jewish Sports Review, made Aliyah and will be fully considered an Israeli playing in BSL. The California resident was a three-year starter for ASU where he played in a school record 131 games (20 of them turnover-free) from 2006-2010 and shattered ASUs all-time assist record, posting 551 career assists.

He is the all-time leading free throw shooter at ASU, making 295-of-352 free throws and is the first ASU player to total more than 1,000 career points (1,028) and 500 assists (551).
During his senior season, Glasser averaged 10.1 points per game, where he led the conference in assists (4.8) and in assist-to-turnover ratio (2.16).

As a junior, Glasser was ASUs best player in the 2009 postseason, as he averaged 13.7 points in the Pac-10 Tournament and posted a career-high 22 points in the teams victory over Temple in the first-round of the NCAA tournament. In 2009, Glasser was named to the first-team PAC-10 All-Academic team.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd
Follow Eurobasket on Twitter: @EurobasketNews

Ironi Ashkelon adds Niv Berkowitz - by Eurobasket News
Niv Berkowitz (190-G-86, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Marquette) is a new member of Ironi Ashkelon. The Israeli guard penned a deal for the 2011/12 season. He arrives to the club from Maccabi Ashdod. For 30 games in Premier league Berkowitz averaged 7.1 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists. Before Maccabi Ashdod, he split 2009/10 season between Hapoel Afula and Hapoel Holon. With Hapoel Afula he had 7.3 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 2.7 apg and 2.9 spg for 9 games. After that, Berkowitz added 4 ppg and 1.1 apg for 13 games with Hapoel Holon. In the past, Niv Berkowitz was a member of Elitzur Qiryat Ata/Motzkin, Ramat Hasharon and Maccabi Electra. He also played for the U20 and U18 Israeli National Team. In 2007, he won the Premier League title with Hapoel Holon.

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  ITALY   


Donte Mathis heads to Pistoia - by Eurobasket News
Donte Mathis (190-G-77, college: Texas St.) signed a one-year deal with Pistoia. The experienced guard heads to his new club from Udine, where he spent last two years. He played 32 games in LegaDue last season collecting 10.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 3.7 apg. In 2009/10, Mathis had 9 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 1.6 apg for 11 games. He struggled with injury and missed few months that season. Before Udine, Donte Mathis was a member of Fastweb Casale Monferrato. He played two years for them averaging 8.1 points and 2 rebounds in their second season. In the past, Mathis also was a member of Novara, Imola, Scavolini and Ragusa. He also has experience from the German Mitteldeutscher, Slovenian Krka and Icelandic Skallagrimur. Mathis was Slovenian league champion in 2003 with Krka.

Dee Brown to play in Italy, signs with Banca Tercas Teramo - by Eurobasket News
Former University of Illinois point guard Daniel Brown (185-G-84, college: Illinois) signed a one-year contract with Banca Tercas Teramo in Italy on Thursday.

Brown spent last preseason with the Dallas Mavericks before being waived in October. He played four months in China and finally played 15 games in Puerto Rico. He left Puerto Rico before the end of the season to return to Chicago for family medical reasons. Brown previously played in Italy for Air Avellino in 2010.

'I signed with Teramo pretty much because they were going to make me the focal point of the team,' Brown said. 'I'm the first person they're going to sign and will build the team around me.'

Heading into this summer, Brown was concerned where he would end up due to the NBA lockout. With NBA players like his friend and former Illinois teammate Deron Williams choosing to play overseas, Brown understands there are less spots for players like himself.

'I was super worried,' Brown said. 'Teams want players who played in the NBA last year. The market is shrinking.'

Brown is still optimistic he can return to the NBA. He was drafted by the Utah Jazz in the second round of the 2006 draft and played the 2006-2007 season there. He also played for the Washington Wizards and Phoenix Suns during the 2008-2009 season.

'I just think I need the right situation, right team,' Brown said of the NBA. 'I've been watching a lot of my games. When I watch it, my game has matured, my game has developed. Am I still in a position to get back?

'I think so. I'm going to go over there and continue to work on my game and hopefully get a chance. If not, I'm going to continue playing basketball for a living.'

Brown has been spending these days on the basketball court as well as the recording studio. On Aug. 5, Brown will release his third mix tape album, 'New Hobby.' His first two mix tapes were only available underground, but this one will be available for the general public.

He plans on holding a couple release parties and signing events in the coming weeks.

'I've been doing it since I was 14,' Brown said. 'I've been recording for five years. I've recorded all over the world. A lot of guys plays golf. I just need that outlet. Basketball will take over your life. Music is that outlet.'

Courtesy of ESPN

World Military Championship: Lithuania edge Italy to clinch top spot in Group B - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Italy 91:81

Lithuania registered the fifth straight win at the World Military Championship in Brazil. They held off Italy to claim the top position in Group B. They will now take on the fourth team from Group A in the quarterfinal. Italy slipped at the third position at 3-2 record.
The Azzurri fired 32 points in the first quarter to pull in front. They built a 6-point lead after ten minutes. Lithuania however gradually recovered and clawed their way back. The Baltic team arrived at halftime up by one 42:41. The Azzurri surged back in front early in the second half but Lithuania managed to post a 64:61 advantage at the final break. The teams stayed close throughout the bigger part of the final quarter before Lithuania stepped on the gas and ran away for a comfortable 10-point victory at the end. Gytis Andrijauskas (187-G-86) finished with 20 points for the winners. Vytautas Sarakauskas (203-C-82) added 18 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists, while Tomas Lukosevicius (200-C-80) netted 18 points in the victory. Patrick Baldassarre (200-F-86, agency: Players Group) replied with 29 points for Italy. Luca Bertolini (190-G-85) had 19 points in defeat.

Lithuania: Gytis Andrijauskas 20, Vytautas Sarakauskas 18, Tomas Lukosevicius 18
Italy: Patrick Baldassarre 29, Luca Bertolini 19


U18: Italy show no mercy against Russia in opener - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18 - Russia U18 89:48

Italy registered the first win at the U18 European Championship. The Azzurri breezed past Russia for 1-0 record in Group D. Amedeo Della Valle (193-G-93) scored 20 points to lead Italy.
Italy started the game strong. They recorded a 19:9 lead midway through the first period. The Azzurri unloaded 27 points in the frame to ensure a 14-point lead. Italy opened the second quarter on a 7:1 run to deepen the damage. The Azzurri arrived at halftime up by as many as 23 points 49:26. Italy kept their opponents at bay throughout the third quarter. They posted a 75:41 lead at the final intermission. Italy limited Russia to just 7 points in the fourth quarter to rally to a confident win at the end. Francesco Veccia (190-G-93) produced 18 points in the victory. Raphael Gaspardo (204-F-93) added 13 points for Italy. Gleb Goldyrev (200-F-93) replied with 19 points and 7 rebounds for Russia. Pavel Khrebtov (197-F-93) had 7 points in defeat.

Italy U18: Amedeo Della Valle 20, Francesco Veccia 18, Raphael Gaspardo 13
Russia U18: Gleb Goldyrev 19, Pavel Khrebtov 7


Dinamo Sassari brings in Drake Diener - by Eurobasket News
Drake Diener (196-G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: De Paul) will continue his career in Dinamo Sassari. American guard signed a one-year deal and will join his cousin Travis Diener. Drake Diener spent last season with Banca Tercas Teramo. He had 13.5 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 3.3 apg for 30 games in SerieA. He participated at the SerieA All-Star Game. Diener played for Teramo also in 2009/10. At that time he had 12.2 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 2.4 apg in Italy. He also added 13.1 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 2.1 apg for 8 EurpCup games. Before Teramo, Drake Diener played for Capo dOrlando, Montepashi and Armani Jeans MIlano. He won the SerieA title with Montepashi in 2008. Diener helped them with 9.9 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 15 games that season. He joined them in February and had pretty important role with the Siena team.

Marcelus Kemp stays with Virtus Bologna - by Eurobasket News
Marcelus Kemp (196-G-84, college: Nevada) will stay with Virtus Bologna for the next season. The American guard was close to Scavolini Siviglia Pesaro, but that deal didn't materialize at the end. Kemp started last season with the Bologna team averaging 13.6 points and 4.4 rebounds for 9 games in SerieA. In February he was transferred to Besiktas Cola Turka, where he added 17.9 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 2.5 apg for 15 games in TBL. Besiktas also wanted to keep Kemp for the next season, but the team's account is currently frozen and they are not able to pay a buyout fee. Marcelus Kemp spent 2009/10 season with Banco di Sardegna Sassari. He helped them win the LegaDue Playoffs and of course the promotion to SerieA. Kemp had 21.4 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 1.5 spg for Sassari that year. He ended as the second scorer of the competition. Kemp had almost the same numbers with Livorno in 2008/09.

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  KAZAKHSTAN   


World Military Championship: Kazakhstan prevail against Qatar - by Eurobasket News
Kazakhstan - Qatar 76:65

Kazakhstan celebrated the initial win in Rio de Janeiro. They overcame Qatar to climb at 1-4 record in Group B. Dmitriy Gavrilov (203-F-86) scored 25 points to pace the charge. Qatar fell at 1-4 record after the loss.
The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter. Qatar finally eked out a 22:21 lead after ten minutes. Kazakhstan however quickly surged ahead in the second quarter. They piled up a six-point halftime advantage 43:37. The Kazakh team maintained the lead throughout the third period. Moreover Alexander Nechayev team ensured a 60:50 advantage with one quarter remaining. The margin grew at 15-point mark in the fourth frame and Kazakhstan hang on to earn the first win at the tournament. Vsevolod Fadeykin (206-C-85) delivered 12 points and 10 rebounds. Ivan Nechayev (186-G-82) added 11 points in the win. Alioune Ndoye (199-F-86) answered with 24 points and 10 rebounds for Qatar. Baker Ahmad Mohammed (199-F-86) finished with 16 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.

Kazakhstan: Dmitriy Gavrilov 25, Vsevolod Fadeykin 12+10 boards, Ivan Nechayev 11
Qatar: Alioune Ndoye 24+10 boards, Baker Ahmad Mohammed 16


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  LATVIA   


U18: France prevail against Latvia in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
France U18 - Latvia U18 66:46

France opened their U18 European Championship campaign with victory. They outlasted Latvia to gain the first win in Group C. William Howard (201-F-93) and Ulysse Adjagba (185-PG-93) stepped up with 14 points each to lead the effort.
France and Latvia stayed close in a low-scoring first period. The teams were tied at 9 after ten minutes of action. Latvia opened the second period with five points in a row to surge ahead. Les Bleus answered with a 7:0 run late in the half to surge ahead 22:21. France tipped off the second half with a 12:0 run to clear off. They led throughout the quarter and entered the fourth frame up by 15 points 43:28. Ojars Silins (201-F-93) cut the distance to 10 points at the beginning of the fourth quarter but France quickly restored a safe cushion and cruised to the victory at the end. Jean-Charles Livio (204-F/C-93) accounted for 11 points and 8 rebounds in the win. Ojars Silins replied with 15 points for Latvia. Janis Berzins (201-F/G-93, agency: Players Group) netted 13 points in the losing effort.

France U18: William Howard 14, Ulysse Adjagba 14, Jean-Charles Livio 11
Latvia U18: Ojars Silins 15, Janis Berzins 13


Krists Piternieks heads to Germany - by Eurobasket News
Krists Piternieks (202-G-87, agency: Dynamics Global Management) will continue his career in Germany. The Latvian guard penned a deal with BG Karlsruhe. He heads to his new club from the Italian D Dilettanti team Penne. Piternieks started last season with Latvijas Universitate. He appeared 12 times for the club in LBL registering 9.7 ppg, 5.9 rpg and 3.2 apg. In 2009/10, Krists Piternieks was a member of Barons and Barons/Ridzene. With Barons he had 3.8 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 5 games in LBL. After that he moved to Barons/Ridzene adding 9.2 ppg and 2.9 rpg in D2. Piternieks also spent some time with Tobarra. In the past, he was a member of Keizarmezs, Riga and Panellinos. Krists Piternieks played for the U20, U18 and U16 Latvia National Team in the past.

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  LESOTHO   


Invitation to Tournament in Maseru, Lesotho 1st to 2nd October 2011 - by Sekhoane Moshabesha
The Lesotho Basketball Association shall be hosting a 2-day invitational tournament from the 1st to the 2nd of October 2011 in Maseru, Lesotho.

This tournament will include teams from Lesotho, Botswana, Swaziland, and South Africa.

It is with great pleasure that we extend this invitation to your team and request that you come and participate in this tournament as we continue to strengthen the ties between the Lesotho Basketball Association and your team in an effort to ensure the growth of basketball to the benefit of all. On this note, we encourage you to also extend this invitation to any teams in your regions whom you feel may add value to this competition.

Registration for the tournament is R300 per team, payable on arrival to the tournament. Please confirm your intention to participate by Close of Business (17:00) Friday 16th September 2011. Late confirmation will not be accepted.

Accommodation will be arranged for all players and team officials at the cost of about R100 to R200 per person, per night. Arrangements for accommodation shall be made by the Lesotho Basketball Association upon receipt of the full payment by any team that requires such an arrangement, no later than Friday 23rd September.

All future correspondence shall be carried out through the tournament organizer Mr. Ratsolo Molupe on behalf of the LBA League Committee. For any further enquiries or assistance of any sort, please contact Mr. Molupe at the following email address; moluper@etl.co.ls.

We look forward to seeing you at the tournament.

Kind regards,


Molupe Mothepu
Treasurer
National Basketball League Committee
Lesotho Basketball Association

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  LITHUANIA   


U18: Lithuania start with big win over Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - Ukraine U18 84:51

Lithuania opened title defence with U18 European Championship with a comfortable win over Ukraine. Arturas Gudaitis (208-C-93) knocked down 14 points to lead the Baltic team to the starting win in Group D.
Lithuania used a 13:0 run midway through the opening quarter to clear off. They ensured a 28:13 advantage at the first break. Lithuania tipped off the second frame with 12 unanswered points to boost the margin to 27 points. Lithuania eased to a 47:22 lead at the interval. They maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. Ukraine faced a massive 39:70 deficit at the final break. Lithuania limited their opponents to 12 points in the final stanza and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Simonas Kymantas (204-C/F-93), Osvaldas Olisevicius (196-F-93) and Tauras Jogela (201-F-93) nailed 12 points each for the winning team. Klym Artamonov (176-G-93) and Danylo Zuikov (185-PG-94) finished with 15 points each for Ukraine.

Lithuania U18: Arturas Gudaitis 14, Simonas Kymantas 12, Osvaldas Olisevicius 12, Tauras Jogela 12
Ukraine U18: Klym Artamonov 15, Danylo Zuikov 15


Martynas Mazeika prolongs his contract with - by Simonas Skuzinskas
Martynas Mazeika (190-G-85, agency: Limelight Hoops) pens the deal with Neptunas Klaipeda club signing 1+1 deal. He has played for Neptunas for six seasons altogether since the age of 15.
Martynas agreed to sign the deal as offered conditions were up to his expectations. Also, coach Paulius Juodis couldn't be happier to have Martynas back who, in his opinion, 'can play both guard positions and even small forward if needed'.
Last year Martynas Mazeika stats in LKL were 13.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2apg. FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 22.4%, FT: 77.4%.

World Military Championship: Lithuania edge Italy to clinch top spot in Group B - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Italy 91:81

Lithuania registered the fifth straight win at the World Military Championship in Brazil. They held off Italy to claim the top position in Group B. They will now take on the fourth team from Group A in the quarterfinal. Italy slipped at the third position at 3-2 record.
The Azzurri fired 32 points in the first quarter to pull in front. They built a 6-point lead after ten minutes. Lithuania however gradually recovered and clawed their way back. The Baltic team arrived at halftime up by one 42:41. The Azzurri surged back in front early in the second half but Lithuania managed to post a 64:61 advantage at the final break. The teams stayed close throughout the bigger part of the final quarter before Lithuania stepped on the gas and ran away for a comfortable 10-point victory at the end. Gytis Andrijauskas (187-G-86) finished with 20 points for the winners. Vytautas Sarakauskas (203-C-82) added 18 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists, while Tomas Lukosevicius (200-C-80) netted 18 points in the victory. Patrick Baldassarre (200-F-86, agency: Players Group) replied with 29 points for Italy. Luca Bertolini (190-G-85) had 19 points in defeat.

Lithuania: Gytis Andrijauskas 20, Vytautas Sarakauskas 18, Tomas Lukosevicius 18
Italy: Patrick Baldassarre 29, Luca Bertolini 19


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  LUXEMBOURG   


U18 :The home side opened the U18 European Championship with the win over Luxembourg - by Eurobasket News
Bulgaria U18-Luxembourg U18 106:59

The home side opened the U18 European Championship with the win over Luxembourg. Bulgaria U18 thrashed the opponents 106:59 in Group A second game.
Bulgaria began well with a 11-0 run setting the tone for a dominating first quarter. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) closed the period for 25:5 as the hosts never looked behind. Luxembourg started to play better in the second frame and lost the period only 23-24. Karamfilov nailed three for 49:28 at the halftime. Tencho Tenchev (203-F-93) opened the third period with a jump shot and Damyan Stoyanov (192-G/F-93) nailed three for 57:33. Pavlin Ivanov followed the teammates at the end of the quarter from the long range as Bulgaria enjoyed 77:49 after thirty minutes. Another 29-10 in the last stanza allowed the hosts to taste the easy win.
Pavlin Ivanov stepped up with 22 points and Aleks Simeonov (200-C-93) netted 16. Tencho Tenchev ended up with 14 points, while Damyan Stoyanov scored 13. Jo Hoeser (189-F-94) replied with 17 points in the losing case and Bob Melcher (185-PG-94) notched 13.

Bulgaria U18: Pavlin Ivanov 22, Aleks Simeonov 16, Tencho Tenchev 14, Damyan Stoyanov 13
Luxembourg U18: Jo Hoeser 17, Bob Melcher 13


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  MEXICO   


Standings - Lower Leagues
CIBANE Regular Season Standings
 1. Durango M. 14-2 
 2. Fresnillo M. 11-3 
 3. UAZ Tuzos 10-6 
 4. Saltillo Caktus 5-11 
 5. P.Negras A. 3-11 
 6. Apodaca G. 3-13 


Madereros remain on top of the power rankings - by Carlos Chapa
1. Madereros de Durango 14-2 (88%)
Durango has gone 7-1 since our last power rankings, maintaining a balanced offense in which most players touch the ball before attempting a shot, to prove this point, Durango does not have a single player between the top ten scorers of the league, instead, four players score in double figures: Victor Chavez with 18.6, Roderick Smith with 17.4, Sandrell Spann with 15.7 and Santiago Nogueira with 11.6. Madereros has also kept their defense going, leading the league in points against with only 77.06 per contest.

2. Mineros de Fresnillo 11-3 (79%)
Mineros proved to be a solid team able to beat any other rival in the circuit; they beat Tuzos de la UAZ Zacatecas at home and split games with Madereros de Durango. Fresnillo is the best offensive team in the league averaging 101.71 per game and with six players in double digits: Tyronne Beale with 31.3, Fernando Sandoval with 17.4, Valentin Cabral with 16.3, Sergio Escobar with 14.9, Pablo Gonzalez with 13.5 and Roberto Elicerio with 12.4.

3. Tuzos de la UAZ Zacatecas 10-6 (63%)
Over the course of the season CamRon Clay has matured, he now uses his body more efficiently to draw double teams and scores constantly inside the paint, meanwhile Gerardo Arroyos has been consistently doing the dirty work, Rodolfo Rodriguez keeps making three-pointers and trick plays and Jean Auguste Wilder has proven to be a better player outside the arc and moving the ball.

4. Aguilas de Piedras Negras 3-11 (21%)
Things have not gone well for Piedras Negras, despite that, they managed to beat Tuzos de la UAZ Zacatecas and kept a very narrow margin in both loses against Durango. Aguilas are yet to play a game in which all of their cylinders click, there have been some games where their imports explode for 40+, or where their nationals give 30 or more points, if they want to advance to the playoffs, they need to play together and share their responsibilities better.

5. Guerreros de Apodaca 3-13 (19%)
The only reason why Apodaca tops Saltillo in this power ranking is because they won two games against them, as we stated before, Apodaca could have made a decent job to remain competitive throughout the season, a volatile roster with ups and downs prevented them from making a better job.

6. Caktus de Saltillo 5-11 (31%)
Its a shame that Saltillo could not get the services of a foreign or national player to reinforce the paint, because that team has real talent, their only problem is their lack of size, a problem that kept them from competing with Fresnillo, Durango and UAZ.

For more information about the CIBANE League, please check their official sites:
www.cibane.org
twitter.com/ligacibane
facebook.com/ligacibane
Highlights from Tuzos UAZ vs Mineros Fresnillo





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  MONTENEGRO   


U18: Montenegro and Austria open European Championship in Varna - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro U18-Austria U18 97:38

Montenegro won the opener of the U18 European Championship that just started in Varna, Bulgaria. The team destroyed Austria 97:38 setting the tone for a dominating the whole game.
Montenegro started with 15-1 run and of course never looked behind after. Pavic closed the first period at 20:4 and Nemanja Gavranic (200-F-93) increased to 22:4 early in the second. Kapic nailed three for 26:12, while Pajovic sent the teams to the lockers for 42:16. Montenegro continued to dominate the court in the second half and won both periods in it. They increased the lead to 70:23 after thirty minutes as Fatic and Gvozden exchanged the baskets at the end of the frame. Another 27-15 in the last stanza allowed them to propel to the victory in the opener.
Marko Mugosa (197-F-93) led the way with 21 points and Nemanja Gavranic nailed 16. Vasilije Vusovic (188-G-94) finished the game with 14 points, while Danilo Nikolic (93) collected 11 points and 10 boards. David Angeler replied with 10 points in defeat, while Markus Strohmayer (195-F-93) and Vladimir Ljesevic (197-F-93) posted 5 apiece.

Montenegro U18: Marko Mugosa 21, Nemanja Gavranic 16, Vasilije Vusovic 14, Danilo Nikolic 11+10 rebs
Austria U18: David Angeler 10, Markus Strohmayer 5, Vladimir Ljesevic 5



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  NBA   


Deron's Turkey move pends FIBA approval - by Eurobasket News
Besiktas has announced the signing of NBA star Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Illinois), but the transfer will only be finalized after the International Basketball Federation, or FIBA, approves the transfer.

FIBA will have the final say on the deal, which has been made possible by the lockout in the National Basketball Association, or NBA.

The Istanbul club was in talks with the New Jersey Nets point guard, but the official agreement was announced late Tuesday. Williams announced the deal on his Twitter account last weekend as well. 'Just made it official, headed to Turkey: signed with Besiktas@BJK_Basketbol', he wrote.

Beikta, which also boasts NBA legend Allen Iverson in its squad, will be able to keep Williams on a rolling contract that will see him leave as soon as the lockout ends.

The Williams transfer was funded by the sponsorship of Milangaz and Moil, Anatolia news agency reported. Largely heralded as one of the two top point guards in the league, along with the New Orleans Hornets Chris Paul, Williams averaged 20.1 points and 10.3 assists for the Nets and the Utah Jazz last season.

Beikta wanted to capitalize on the NBA lockout with another marquee move, and went for Kobe Bryant. However, the team, which is sweating under football match-fixing allegations, has had difficulties finding the funds to meet

Bryants reported demand of $1 million per month.

Courtesy of www.hurriyetdailynews.com

Should NBA Players Head Overseas If games are missed? - by Eddie King
The title of this article has been the biggest question about the NBA ever since Allstar Point guard Deron Williams said that he'll go and play for a Turkish team is the NBA misses any games. He reasoning, was his love for playing and wanting to be in quality shape once the NBA got underway. Plus the Turkish team reportedly offered him 5 million dollars to play for them. My answer to the title question is, 'it depends on the player', basically meaning, I don't think it's smart for someone of Williams caliber to go overseas.

First reason is that I dont think his competitive void will be filled by playing over seas, yes they're are quality players over there but, it's like night and day compared to the competion he's use to in the NBA over the past 6 season. Also, I don't know if his family will be totally happy going to another Country in which the language barrier will be tough. Secondly, with him being a free agent after this year and a huge pay day on the table still, he would be risking injury playing against guys that are going to go at him twice as hard to make at name for themselves, because of his stature.

I know he stated that money wasn't a issue, but 5 million is 5 million, and a lot of times playing in Europe doesnt pay - literally.There have been so many horror stories about about teams not honoring contracts and players leaving clubs without the compensation that it was once agreed to. From the low level leagues to the High level leagues. I think for role players that haven't made as much money as the star players and have some years in the NBA, it could be a good idea if they can get a solid contract but have a clear understaning that you can go there with hype and play less minutes than you're getting in the NBA, and you probably would understand why. Ex. Brandon Jennings, Josh Childress, etc.

Ultimately, the reasoning I have on this subject is that the, 'once you've had a taste of NBA, there is nothing that can compare on a basketball level in any aspect' The life style the travel, the perks, the competition! It's like, 'Once you're started eating steak and lobster, you can't go back to burgers and fries'! I'd just stay here and work out with players in the states and pray that the lockout ends soon!

Article by: Author Eddie King

Best basketball scouting service launched - by Eurobasket
There were already some rumours in the air about launching the most sophisticated basketball scouting web site. And finally we have it: basketball-scouting.com was launched just a week ago.
It's the source for #1IBSS (International Basketball Scouting Services). Let's talk to the people involved in the new project.

Author: Where did the idea come from and how it started?

Marek Wojtera (Sports IT, European Manager): 'We were approached many times in the past with the ideas of getting into basketball scouting. Eurobasket web sites (we have in total 11 basketball related web sites we maintain) is currently #1 international basketball media. But maintaining the system with 300,000 profiles and covering 450 leagues is very challenging and required lots of work and focus. So we are not always jumping into new projects without deeper market research. We realized that combination of biggest DB with biggest stats system is a perfect match to launch a scouting web site. So sooner or later we would get into scouting anyway. But we also had some other projects going on as we constantly work on improving our current services and even maintaining what we already have in the system is very time-consuming. The green light was given at the end of last year. At the beginning the idea was relatively simple. But then we realized that if we do it the 'easy' way, we would be one of many other web sites about basketball scouting. So we had to do it better. We ended up with extremely sophisticated system, which measures almost every element of game (shooting abilities, defense, offense, etc.). It's nothing new on the market. But there is a difference if you do it for 100 players or for 100,000 players.'

Author: What's the advantage of basketball-scouting comparing to other similar web sites?

Marek Wojtera: 'The difference is about the scope and frequency we update data. If the coaches are interested about scouting the players in Bosnia, they can do that. They do not have only top 15 youngsters, but top 150 youngsters in the country. And you multiply it by 100 other leagues where NCAA usually recruits the players from and you end-up with the only such complex and unique system on the market. The basketball-scouting scouts also all pro players. So we do practically every player in Bosnian or any other pro or semi-pro in the world. So it can be used also by senior teams' coaches all around the world. I do not believe anyone will be able to provide so wide scouting data any time soon. The other advantage is the frequency we update data. We do not do it just periodically like other services do. We do it after EVERY single game played by the player. So if there was a game in Spanish 4th division or Chinese 2nd division tonight, tomorrow morning you have already adjusted all scouting data about the players, who played in that game.'

Author: Were there any technical challenges realted to building basketball-scouting?

Ernest Hertig (Sports IT, IT Manager): 'It was very challenging to put together so complex system.
The problem was with making sure that we calculate ALL various data for so many players and it's done EVERY NIGHT.
That's why the project took much longer than we scheduled.
In many case we came across 'that would be good idea, let's implement it' or 'let's spend few more days to re-write that part of code as it will speed-up opening the page by 2 seconds'.

Author: Is the work completed or you think about expanding it?

Ernest Hertig: 'Of course it will be on-going project. There is still another module we would like to add, which will allow our correspondents to add scouting reports about the players. We have a network of about 200 correspondents around the world, and if we get most of them involved in reporting about the players, that will be for sure an important addition to the system. Our system is a very unique and we do not have similar level systems on the market at all. It's easy to have impressive web site about a single league. But try to combine 450 leagues with 450 different systems and ideas how they play and here you end up with a very sophisticated system. That's why we do not have too much competition as no one is simply able to do what we did, and all programming has to be done only by us. It's maybe not easy, but at the other side we always do it in most efficient way and also in the case of basketball-scouting we have to assure that our correspondents will have easy-to-handle system to write life reports about every player from every game, whenever they are. That module will be finished in upcoming months. The other missing item is scouting U.S. high schools. That's quite a monster and few other local companies do it already in the States. However no one does it internationally anywhere close to the level we do. International scouting with hundreds of other leagues around the world is where the real challenge starts. That's why we decided to handle the most complex part before we will go to easier one.'

The new scouting web site can be checked at www.basketball-scouting.com

Kobe Bryant reportedly in serious talks with Turkish club - by Eurobasket News
There's been plenty of back-and-forth on whether Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) would actually join forces with Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Illinois) on the Turkish club team Besiktas.

But here's the latest: Coach Ergin Ataman told reporters in Turkey that 'it is a fact that Kobe Bryant's managers have contacted us' and that he was waiting for an offer from the team. Before they would sign Bryant, however, Ataman said the team would need to secure a sponsor.

What does this actually mean? It's hard to say, because the possibility of Bryant joining that team has taken a few turns ever since it became official that Williams had signed on.

Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski has reported that Bryant is open to offers playing overseas. Some examples: Bryant and Lakers guard Derek Fisher, among others, will appear in a pair of exhibition games this weekend in the Philippines. The Times' Baxter Holmes also reported that Bryant's agent, Rob Pelinka of Landmark Sports Agency, might organize an effort in which some of his clients go on a barnstorming tour in China. But the possibility of playing with Besiktas is more uncertain. Only two days ago, ESPN.com's Marc Stein reported that the team's pursuit of Bryant was put on hold because the team's basketball funds were tied up with a match-fixing scandal linked to the Turkish national soccer team. Other reports indicated Bryant wanted $1 million a month, though Besiktas was only prepared to offer a $500,000 monthly salary.

Bryant, who has a $83.5-million contract with the Lakers through the 2013-14 season, planned on keeping an active summer despite the numerous injuries that ail him. He underwent plasma therapy to treat his surgically repaired right knee sometime in May in Germany, a controversial procedure that involves drawing a small amount of blood from the patient's arm, spinning it in a centrifuge for about 20 minutes to isolate platelets and then using ultrasound to inject the platelets into the injured area to try to stimulate tissue repair. He indicated in his exit interview that he plans to find other ways to strengthen his leg. And he's currently touring Asia as part of his efforts in promoting his Nike brand.

But whether he'd actually play competitive basketball overseas? It's too early to say, considering the financial and injury considerations. For whatever it's worth, Besiktas claims to be at least talking with Bryant.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

Larry Bird joins Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson on NBA 2K12 covers - by Eurobasket News
This time, Michael Jordan (6'7''-F-63, college: N.Carolina) wont be the only one to cover a 2K Sports basketball video game.

The video game company announced on Thursday that NBA Hall of Famers Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Jordan will be featured in three separate covers on the front of 'NBA 2K12,' the latest installment of the best-selling basketball video game franchise.

Last year, Jordan was the cover athlete for 2Ks NBA game, which has sold more than 5 million units. Jordan also worked closely with the games developers, providing his input on details such as players shot technique.

Jason Argent, vice president of marketing at Take-Twos 2K Sports business, says the company is bringing Jordan back as part of a 'three-year extended partnership.' He said the company wanted to expand their brand after the games success of last year.

'Bringing Michael Jordan to the virtual hardwood last year was a huge success for NBA 2K11, but we didnt want to stop there,' Argent said in a statement.

Jordan (Chicago Bulls) and Bird (Boston Celtics [team stats]) will each sport their teams away jerseys, while Johnson (Los Angeles Lakers) dons his home uniform on their separate cover.

For the upcoming 'NBA 2K12,' which is expected to go on sale Oct. 4, the company didnt specify how each of the three basketball legends will be incorporated into the game.

Courtesy of www.bostonherald.com

Pacers players start to look overseas for basketball opportunities - by Eurobasket News
Several Indiana Pacers are open to playing overseas if the NBA lockout cuts into the start of the season, as many expect.

Agent Mark Bartelstein, who represents five Pacers, said he is 'aggressively pursuing opportunities' overseas.

'None of them are dying to go over there. They prefer for there to be an NBA season,' Bartelstein said. 'My message to the players (is) that we need to be aggressive in looking for things. We're not just going to be reckless and take a job we don't think is a good fit, but if there's a job we think is good, we have to think about doing it. We deal with this situation on a day-to-day basis and we'll see what happens.'

Bartelstein's agency represents Pacers Danny Granger (6'8''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico), Paul George (6'8''-G/F-90, agency: Priority Sports, college: Fresno St.), Brandon Rush (6'6''-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Kansas), Dahntay Jones (6'5''-F/G-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Duke) and James Posey (6'8''-F/G-77, agency: Priority Sports, college: Xavier).

Granger and Jones are open to playing overseas because of the uncertainty of when the lockout will end. Rush said via text message that he's not interested in the opportunity.

'If it's a good country and a good organization, I'll definitely try it,' Jones said. 'It's about the experience and being able to play basketball. Playing basketball is the sole reason for it.'

Center Roy Hibbert and point guard A.J. Price say it's possible that they will play overseas, too.

'Right now my top option is to stay in the States,' Hibbert said. 'But if we don't have a season or we're missing many games, my agent has something set up for me to go over there.'

Pacers officials cannot try to sway their players' decision because the sides are not allowed to communicate during the lockout.

New Jersey Nets All-Star point guard Deron Williams was the first big name to opt for the international game when he signed a contract to play in Turkey.

There have been reports that All-Stars Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard and Dwyane Wade are exploring the idea of playing overseas.

'I told all our clients that based upon the way the NBA has scheduled negotiations to this point, there's really no reason to believe that they have any interest in making a fair deal,' Bartelstein said. 'If that's the case, you have to look at alternative ways to make a living. That's what these guys do: They play basketball for a living.'

Bartelstein will look to get an opt-out clause in the contracts of the players he sends overseas so they can return to the NBA once the lockout ends. He also has talked to a number of insurance agencies to cover injuries.

There has been a lot of talk about players going overseas, but there are obstacles that could prevent many from going.

Foreign leagues typically limit the number of Americans on their rosters, and not many have the financial backing to pay NBA players the type of money they're used to making.

Williams reportedly signed a $5 million contract with his Turkish team. He's scheduled to make $16.4 million with the Nets next season.

'You don't jump at just any opportunity to go,' Jones said. 'The money has to be right and it has to be the right situation. That's why you have to think everything through first before going.'

Pacers T.J. Ford, Mike Dunleavy, Jeff Foster and Darren Collison said they are not looking to play outside of the United States.

'That hasn't even crossed my mind,' Collison said. 'I want to see how things play out. I just want to stay positive as much as I can.'

Courtesy of www.indystar.com

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


Paris Horne signs deal with BG Gottingen - by Eurobasket News
Paris Horne (191-G-87) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American guard penned a deal with the German team BG Gottingen. They will compete in 1.Bundesliga. Paris Horne is a product of the St. Johns University, where he graduated few months ago. He appeared 33 times for his school as a senior averaging 7.9 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.6 assists. Horne finished tied for second all-time (Felipe Lopez) in career three-pointers made with 148. In 2009/10 season, Horne collected 9.2 ppg and 3.1 rpg for his school. His sophomore year was the best one for Horne at St. Johns. He exploded with 14.6 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 2.2 apg at that time. It was a huge improvement after 5.1 ppg and 2.3 rpg as a freshman.

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  NORWAY   


U18: Sweden wins the Scandinavian opener - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18-Norway U18 90:50

Sweden U18 destroyed Norway U18 in Varna at the U18 European Championship. The Swedish side erupted for 90:50 win in the opener winning all the quarters.
Sweden enjoyed a 20-8 tear in the first period and took control of the court. Andersson closed the period at 25:10, while Jesper Eliasson (199-F-94) brought another two points in the start of the second frame. Ismaili scored for 40:17 and Asante sent the squads to the changing rooms for 49:24. Sweden surged further away with a 10-0 burst in the start of the third period when Jesper Eliasson scored for 59:24. Norway did their best to stay on race but could not compete with the stronger team. Sweden added 20-9 in the third period and won the last one 21-17. Ismaili became the last player to score in the game for the final result.
Tobias Borg (183-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 18 points, while Niklas Larsson (196-G/F-94) nailed 16. Jesper Eliasson collected 11 points and 16 rebounds and three more players added 8 apiece. Chris-Ebou Ndow (197-F/G-93) responded with 18 points and 10 rebounds in defeat and Jorgen Gjestemoen (180-G-93) posted 7.

Sweden U18: Tobias Borg 18, Niklas Larsson 16, Jesper Eliasson 11+16 rebs
Norway U18: Chris-Ebou Ndow 18+10 rebs, Jorgen Gjestemoen 7



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  PANAMA   


Panama releases the National Team Pre-Selection - by Gianni Pascucci
Panamanian Basketball Federation announced yesterday the list of the players of the Panamanian National Team Pre-Selection. The NT Camp is scheduled to start on August 1 in the Coliseo Deportivo de la AIP at Costa del Este. The players convocated are:


1 Joel Munoz (179-G-80),
2 Nicanor Alvarez (192-G/F-91)
3 Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington)
4 Ariel Robinson (195-G/F)
5 Jamahr Warren (194-G/F-79, agency: ProSportsCareers, college: Missouri So.)
6 Josimar Ayarza (205-F-87)
7 Dionisio Gomez Camargo (203-F-80, college: Arkansas)
8 Jonathan King (193-G-90)
9 Desmond Alexis Smith (199-F-86, college: William & Mary)
10 Ryan Abrahams (191-G-81, college: Hawaii-Hilo)
11 Joel Tesis (204-F/C-85, college: John Brown)
12 Ernesto Oglivie (199-F-89)
13 Gary Forbes (201-G/F-85, college: Virginia)
14 Jair Peralta (178-G-76, college: Tennessee-Martin)
15 Ruben Douglas (193-G-79, agency: Lanshire Group, college: N.Mexico)
16 Benito Sykes (205-C/C-85)
17 Ruben Garces (206-C/F-73, agency: Priority Sports, college: Providence)
18 Antonio Garcia (203-F/C-76, college: Ky Wesleyan)
19 Michael Hicks (193-G-76, college: Texas A&M - C.C.)
20 Jamaal Levy (206-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wake Forest)
21 Jaime Lloreda (201-F/C-80, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: LSU)
22 Israel Munoz (195-F-91)
23 Daniel King (203-F-87, college: N.Mexico JC)
24 Leonardo Pomare (203-F-86, college: San Diego)



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  PERU   


Standings - Superior
Superior Standings
 1. Regatas 20-2 
 2. Real Club 19-2 
 3. Escuela Fap 16-5 
 4. El Bosque 13-9 
 5. Inmaculada 13-9 
 6. Centro Naval 9-13 
 7. Ejercito 8-14 
 8. San Augustin 6-15 
 9. San Marcos 3-19 
 10. Universitario 1-20 


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


U18: Poland deny Slovenia in opener - by Eurobasket News
Poland U18 - Slovenia U18 89:58

Poland opened their U18 European Championship campaign in style. The hosts cruised past Slovenia in Group A. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) stepped up with 22 points to lead the charge.
Poland used an 11:3 run midway through the opening quarter to surge ahead. Poland posted a 23:13 lead at the first intermission. Slovenia managed to get within 5 points in the second term but the hosts reacted with an 8:0 run to take a 13-point lead. Poland arrived at halftime up by 9 points 42:33. Poland maintained the lead throughout the third term. They posted a 62:45 advantage with ten minutes remaining. Slovenia never threatened the margin in the fourth frame as the hosts coasted to the victory. Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) netted 21 points for Poland. Michal Michalak (194-G-93) added 14 points in the victory. Jan Osolnik (203-F-93) replied with 13 points for Slovenia. Luka Rupnik (184-PG-93) finished with 11 points and 6 assists in the loss.

Poland U18: Mateusz Ponitka 22, Przemyslaw Karnowski 21, Michal Michalak 14
Slovenia U18: Jan Osolnik 13, Luka Rupnik 11


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  PORTUGAL   


FPB - Just missing the 12th team... - by Hugo Carvalho
Regarding the Portuguese League, the Federation determined that the delivery of applications will be until July 26, to find that the 12th team, which will be in place of Penafiel.
The Federation will assess the situation of teams and will make their choice based on the history and financial situation.
The teams that have not regularized their financial situation with the Federation will have their application be rejected.
In OJOGO

U18: Belgium celebrated the tough win in Varna - by Eurobasket News
Portugal U18-Belgium U18 57:59

Belgium celebrated the tough win at the start of the U18 European Championship over Portugal. Belgium needed a strong end to seal 59:57 victory.
Castela and El Khounchar exchanged the baskets early in the first period to be the first to score for their teams. The score was tied another two times in the frame, but Stas closed it at 13:8. Joao Alvaro (187-G-93) tied it back at 17:17, while Jose Miranda (189-G/F-94) nailed three for 29:25 at the halftime. Grosso brought 40:31, but Belgium finished the quarter with 6-1 run. The score was tied again at 43:43, 53:53 and 57:57. Only the last shot of Torreele with 4 seconds remaining became unanswered as Belgium clinched the win.
Marchant paced all the winners with 13 points and Gerald Henrard (203-C-93) scored 11. Jose Miranda delivered 15 points in the losing case, whilst Jonah Callenbach (195-F-93) and Joao Alvaro notched 7 apiece.

Portugal U18: Jose Miranda 15, Jonah Callenbach 7, Joao Alvaro 7
Belgium U18: Marchant 13, Gerald Henrard 11


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


World Military Championship: Kazakhstan prevail against Qatar - by Eurobasket News
Kazakhstan - Qatar 76:65

Kazakhstan celebrated the initial win in Rio de Janeiro. They overcame Qatar to climb at 1-4 record in Group B. Dmitriy Gavrilov (203-F-86) scored 25 points to pace the charge. Qatar fell at 1-4 record after the loss.
The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter. Qatar finally eked out a 22:21 lead after ten minutes. Kazakhstan however quickly surged ahead in the second quarter. They piled up a six-point halftime advantage 43:37. The Kazakh team maintained the lead throughout the third period. Moreover Alexander Nechayev team ensured a 60:50 advantage with one quarter remaining. The margin grew at 15-point mark in the fourth frame and Kazakhstan hang on to earn the first win at the tournament. Vsevolod Fadeykin (206-C-85) delivered 12 points and 10 rebounds. Ivan Nechayev (186-G-82) added 11 points in the win. Alioune Ndoye (199-F-86) answered with 24 points and 10 rebounds for Qatar. Baker Ahmad Mohammed (199-F-86) finished with 16 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.

Kazakhstan: Dmitriy Gavrilov 25, Vsevolod Fadeykin 12+10 boards, Ivan Nechayev 11
Qatar: Alioune Ndoye 24+10 boards, Baker Ahmad Mohammed 16


*****************************************************
  ROMANIA   


Chris Long is a newcomer at BC Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc - by Eurobasket Center
BC Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc strengthened their roster with addition of 24-year old American guard Chris Long (187-G-87, college: Elon, agency: KMG Sports Management). Long played most recently at Team Geneva (Eurobasket) in the U.S. While playing 3 games for Geneva last season he averaged 6.0ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.3apg and 2.7spg.

By Eurobasket Data Center

U18: Trailing 19 points in the second frame, Romania edged the Dutch side - by Eurobasket News
Romania U18-Netherlands U18 66:65

Trailing 19 points in the second frame, Romania edged the Dutch side in Division B of the U18 European Championship. Romania erupted with 27-12 in the third period for 66:65 win in Varna, Bulgaria.
The Dutch side began well with a 10-0 run setting the tone for a dominating first quarter. Hope nailed three for 25:10 at the end of the frame, but as it became clear after, it was not enough for the total success. Paul Candiff (184-G-93) increased to 35:16, but Romania was too far to give up. Andrei Petica (192-F-93) reduced to 40:26 and Stoicoviciu sent the squads to the lockers at 45:31. The third period was decisive in the game as Romania exploded with 27-12 in it. Andrei Petica gave them 46:45 lead and Paun delivered for 58:55. Romania led in the whole last quarter and only Mike Schilder (183-G-94)'s five points reduced the game to 66:65.
Andrei Petica paced all the winners with 24 points, while Alexandru Olah (209-C-93) collected 19 points and 11 rebounds. Paul Candiff and Mike Schilder finished the game with 17 points in the losing effort.

Romania U18: Andrei Petica 24, Alexandru Olah 19+11 rebs
Netherlands U18: Paul Candiff 17, Mike Schilder 17



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


U18: Italy show no mercy against Russia in opener - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18 - Russia U18 89:48

Italy registered the first win at the U18 European Championship. The Azzurri breezed past Russia for 1-0 record in Group D. Amedeo Della Valle (193-G-93) scored 20 points to lead Italy.
Italy started the game strong. They recorded a 19:9 lead midway through the first period. The Azzurri unloaded 27 points in the frame to ensure a 14-point lead. Italy opened the second quarter on a 7:1 run to deepen the damage. The Azzurri arrived at halftime up by as many as 23 points 49:26. Italy kept their opponents at bay throughout the third quarter. They posted a 75:41 lead at the final intermission. Italy limited Russia to just 7 points in the fourth quarter to rally to a confident win at the end. Francesco Veccia (190-G-93) produced 18 points in the victory. Raphael Gaspardo (204-F-93) added 13 points for Italy. Gleb Goldyrev (200-F-93) replied with 19 points and 7 rebounds for Russia. Pavel Khrebtov (197-F-93) had 7 points in defeat.

Italy U18: Amedeo Della Valle 20, Francesco Veccia 18, Raphael Gaspardo 13
Russia U18: Gleb Goldyrev 19, Pavel Khrebtov 7


Khimky officially signs Chris Quinn and Timofey Mozgov - by Eurobasket News
Khimky Moscow Region officially announced signing of point guard Chris Quinn (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame) and center Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: RIZO).
Chris Quinn spent last season with the NBA team San Antonio Spurs. He appeared 38 times for them averaging 2.1 points and 1.1 assists. The Spurs were NBA Southwest Division champions, but they disappointed in the Playoffs. Before San Antonio, Chris Quinn played for the New Jersey Nets and Miami Heat. With the Heat in 2007/08 season Quinn had 7.8 ppg, 2 rpg and 3 apg. It was his best NBA season so far. Quinn is a product of the Notre Dame University. He graduated there in 2006. Quinn played 29 games for his school as a senior registering 17.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 6.4 apg.
Timofey Mozgov signed a deal and will play for Khimky during the lockout. The Russian centre has a contract with the Denver Nuggets. Timofey Mozgov spent four seasons with Khimky in 2007/2010. Last season the centre moved the NBA. He joined the New York Knicks averaging 4.0 points and 3.1 boards per game in his debut season. In February Timofey Mozgov was traded to the Denver Nuggets. His stats read 2.8 points and 1.7 rebounds per appearance there. Timofey Mozgov participated at 2010 World Championship. The player posted 13.0 points, 4.4 boards and 1.0 block per game in Turkey.

Chris Quinn close to sign with Khimky - by Eurobasket News
According to Solobasket, Chris Quinn (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame) is close to sign a deal with Khimky. Reportedly, it is just matter of time when the deal will be official. The American point guard spent last season with the NBA team San Antonio Spurs. He appeared 38 times for them averaging 2.1 points and 1.1 assists. The Spurs were NBA Southwest Division champions, but they disappointed in the Playoffs. Before San Antonio, Chris Quinn played for the New Jersey Nets and Miami Heat. With the Heat in 2007/08 season Quinn had 7.8 ppg, 2 rpg and 3 apg. It was his best NBA season so far. Quinn is a product of the Notre Dame University. He graduated there in 2006. Quinn played 29 games for his school as a senior registering 17.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 6.4 apg.

Krasnie Krilya announced Nikita Balashov - by Eurobasket News
Krasnie Krilya announced Nikita Balashov (206-F-91) for the next season. In 2008-2009 the Russian Forward started for Dynamo Moscow U23 (U-23 Youth League). In 2010-2011 played for Dynamo Moscow (PBL) and in Russian League after 14 games averaged 2.1ppg, 1.9rpg. In EuroChallenge his stats read 3.5ppg, 1.5bpg.
Recently the player participates at the European Championships U20 in Spain. Nikita Balashov recorded so far 13 points in the game versus Montenegro on July 16th. Both teams ensured the Qualifying Round appearance. Andrey Zubkov and Nikita Balashov nailed 13 points apiece to pace the winners.
Andrey Zubkov and Nikita Balashov put Russia in charge 61:60 midway through the fourth period. The teams exchanged points for several minutes before Bojan Dubljevic made it 66:65 for the Balkan team with 55 seconds remaining. However Ivan Strebkov penetrated into the paint, converted a layup and got fouled. He followed with an accurate free throw to seal the victory for Russia.
In 2009 Nikita Balashov was a member of the Russian U18 National Team. Also he became Russian U23 League Finalist and participated at the European Championships U18 in Metz (France). In 8 games he averaged 7.6ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 57.1%.



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


Radenko Pilcevic heads to LTi Giessen 46ers - by Eurobasket News
Radenko Pilcevic (188-G-86) will stay in Germany. The Serbian point guard penned a one-year deal with LTi Giessen 46ers. He arrives from Mitteldeutscher BC Weissenfels, where he spent last two seasons. In the latest one Pilcevic had 7.4 ppg, 1.4 rpg and 2 apg for 27 games. He had almost the same numbers in 2009/10. Radenko Pilcevic moved to Mitteldeutscher in 2009 from Borac Cacak. With the Serbian team he had 10.7 ppg, 2 rpg and 2.9 apg for 31 games. He also has experience from Proleter and Crnokosa.

'For me as a coach it is important to get a point guard that I can trust 100% and who will spread my philosophy on the court .Radenko was the missing piece to the puzzle. He will find our options on the court and use them. He had a tough season last year with injuries, but fought until the end. I am happy to be able to work with him again and give him control on the court', stressed Bjoern Harmsen.

U18: Balanced Serbia steamroll past Finland - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U18 - Finland U18 101:49

Serbia registered the first win at the U18 European Championship in Poland. They trounced Finland in Group B opener. Stefan Popovski-Turanjanin (201-F-93, agency: Beo Basket) netted 22 points to lead the Balkan side.
Serbia dominated from start to finish. They posted a 24:12 lead after ten minutes. Steady Serbia maintained the pressure as they piled up a 47:24 halftime lead. Serbia never slowed down in the third quarter. They arrived at the final break up by as many as 37 points. Finland did not manage to slow their opponents down a bit as Serbia coasted to the victory at the end. Nemanja Krstic (198-F-93) scored 11 points, while six players scored 8 points each in the victory. Joonas Caven (203-C/F-93) answered with 22 points for Finland. Kalle Naapi (187-G-93) delivered 11 points in the loss.

Serbia U18: Stefan Popovski-Turanjanin 22, Nemanja Krstic 11
Finland U18: Joonas Caven 22, Kalle Naapi 11


*****************************************************
  SIERRA LEONE   


Cannon Royals Retain League Crown - by Kristian Santiago
Concord Times (Freetown)
Freetown Cannon Royals on Wednesday retained their Western Area Basketball championship crown after defeating YSC in the play-off final at the National Stadium basketball court in Freetown.

The Royals came from two quarters down to win the final quarter 56-54, and according to their veteran captain Trevor Turner (193-F-85), the victory was down to experience.

'We did retain our title because of experience,' he said. 'At the start of the match we were two quarters down but we were able to bounce back because of maturity. YSC is a good team with young players and they played well but we were able to prevail over them because we have lots of experience players.'

According to Turner, they are already planning to groom young players for next season as the current squad of veteran players might not be able to cope with the pace of the league next season.

Ola Robin-Coker, skipper of the YSC side, also admitted that they lost the title due to lack of experience but believed that was a learning process for them.

He said: 'We played well in the opening quarters but lost concentration in the final quarter and we lost our chance of winning the title back because they (Cannon Royals) won it from us last season.'


*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA   


Bernard Toombs is a newcomer at MBK Rieker Komarno - by Eurobasket Center
MBK Rieker Komarno strengthened their roster with addition of 24-year old American center Bernard Toombs (208-C-87). Toombs played most recently at Troy University (NCAA) in the U.S. It will be his first year in professional basketball. While playing 29 games for Troy last season he averaged 9.6ppg, 9.2rpg and 1.6bpg.

By Eurobasket Data Center

U18: Slovak Republic overcame Switzerland at the end of the first day in Division B - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland U18-Slovak Republic U18 83:87

Slovak Republic overcame Switzerland at the end of the first day at the European Championship in Division B. The winners needed a strong second period to seal 87:83 victory.
The Swiss side began well with a 10-0 run setting the tone for a dominating first quarter. Clint N'Dumba-Capela (202-F-94) closed it for 30:18, but his team lost the game anyway. Slovak Republic limited the opponents to just 6 points in the second frame and grabbed 46:36 halftime advantage. Juricek scored for 50:38 and Simon Krajcovic (185-G-94, agency: FCM) brought 57:48. Boris Bojanovsky (215-C-93) closed thirty minutes at 67:58, while David Flaska (200-F-93) nailed three for 82:65. Switzerland tried hard to recover, but could not catch up with the Slovak side.
Boris Bojanovsky erupted with 34 points and 14 rebounds, while David Flaska scored 14. Simon Krajcovic collected 13 points, 13 assists, 8 steals and 5 rebounds. Clint N'Dumba-Capela answered with 21 points and 15 rebounds, whilst Marko Mladjan (204-F-93) added 10.

Switzerland U18: Clint N'Dumba-Capela 21+15 rebs, Marko Mladjan 10
Slovak Republic U18: Boris Bojanovsky 34+14 rebs, David Flaska 14, Simon Krajcovic 13+13 assists+8 steals+5 rebounds


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


Zlatorog Lasko adds Roberson to their roster - by Greg
Zlatorog Lasko added to their roster 23-year old American guard John Roberson (180-G-88). Roberson played most recently at Texas Tech University (NCAA) in the U.S. It will be his first year in professional basketball. While playing 30 games for Texas Tech last season he averaged 14.1ppg, 2.0rpg, 4.4apg and 1.1spg. He was also named All-Big 12 Honorable Mention.


U18: Poland deny Slovenia in opener - by Eurobasket News
Poland U18 - Slovenia U18 89:58

Poland opened their U18 European Championship campaign in style. The hosts cruised past Slovenia in Group A. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) stepped up with 22 points to lead the charge.
Poland used an 11:3 run midway through the opening quarter to surge ahead. Poland posted a 23:13 lead at the first intermission. Slovenia managed to get within 5 points in the second term but the hosts reacted with an 8:0 run to take a 13-point lead. Poland arrived at halftime up by 9 points 42:33. Poland maintained the lead throughout the third term. They posted a 62:45 advantage with ten minutes remaining. Slovenia never threatened the margin in the fourth frame as the hosts coasted to the victory. Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) netted 21 points for Poland. Michal Michalak (194-G-93) added 14 points in the victory. Jan Osolnik (203-F-93) replied with 13 points for Slovenia. Luka Rupnik (184-PG-93) finished with 11 points and 6 assists in the loss.

Poland U18: Mateusz Ponitka 22, Przemyslaw Karnowski 21, Michal Michalak 14
Slovenia U18: Jan Osolnik 13, Luka Rupnik 11


Union Olimpija lands Deon Thompson - by Eurobasket News
Deon Thompson (203-F-88, college: N.Carolina) is a new member of Union Olimpija. The American power forward penned a two-year deal with the Ljubljana team. He heads to Union Olimpija from Ikaros, where he spent last season. Thompson appeared 25 times in Greek championship averaging 14.1 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.3 blocks. He was named Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Newcomers Team -11. Thompson also participated at the Greek League All-Star Game. Deon Thompson is a University of North Carolina product, where he graduated last year. He had 13.7 ppg, 6.7 rpg and 1.1 spg for 37 games as a senior. He helped North Carolina reach NIT Finals in 2010. A year before that Thompson had 10.6 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 28 games. He won the Gold at the FIBA U19 World Championship 2007. For 9 games with U19 USA he had 10 ppg and 6.1 rpg.

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  SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


SOUTHAMERICAN TOURNAMENT U-17 DAY 4 RESULTS - by Victor Garcia
Argentina is trying to get its confidence back defeating Paraguay in the fourth day of 2011 Soutamerican U-17 Champioship.
Argentina 84
Paraguay 33

Chile achieve an important victory against Ecuador, and keep the hope alife to get a place in the top 5
Chile 56
Ecuador 48 Bryan Ayovi 14 pts.

Brazil continues dominating its rivals, the blue and yellow team defeated Uruguay.
Brazil 54
Uruguay 48.

Colombias hope are rising the National team is playing solid and looks strong enough to face Brazil and Argentina and get the gold, Colombia got its fourth straight victory defeating Venezuela.
Colombia 78
Venezuela 70.


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  SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U17   


Standings (Men)
Standings
1. Brazil4-0
2. Colombia4-0
3. Argentina3-1
4. Uruguay2-2
5. Venezuela1-3
6. Ecuador1-3
7. Chile1-3
8. Paraguay0-4


Brazil and Colombia stay perfect after four days in Cucuta - by Eurobasket News
Brazil and Colombia are undefeated after four days in Cucuta. They outplayed all of their rivals so far, but they will meet each other in Day Five. Only one team will stay on top after that. In Day Four, Colombia was too strong for Venezuela handing them 78-70 loss. On the other side, Brazil outplayed Uruguay 54-48. Also in Day Four, Chile registered their first win at this event. They were too strong for Venezuela 56-48. Both teams have 1-3 record now. In the last game of the day, Argentina destroyed Paraguay 84-33. Thanks to this win Argentina jumped to 3-1 record. Paraguay stays the only winless team in Cucuta (0-4).

Day One
Jul. 16: Brazil 69-40 Paraguay
Jul. 16: Chile 51-67 Argentina
Jul. 16: Uruguay 67-64 Venezuela
Jul. 16: Colombia 74-52 Ecuador

Day Two
Jul. 17: Ecuador 49-63 Argentina
Jul. 17: Paraguay 53-68 Venezuela
Jul. 17: Brazil 74-44 Chile
Jul. 17: Colombia 43-41 Uruguay

Day Three
Jul. 18: Ecuador 65-47 Paraguay
Jul. 18: Brazil 100-47 Venezuela
Jul. 18: Argentina 38-60 Uruguay
Jul. 18: Colombia 66-61 Chile

Day Four
Jul. 19: Venezuela 48-56 Chile
Jul. 19: Paraguay 33-84 Argentina
Jul. 19: Uruguay 48-54 Brazil
Jul. 19: Colombia 78-70 Venezuela

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

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  SOUTH KOREA   


Jarod gets a chance to play for Korea - by JungHwan Seo
Can Stevenson Jarod (200-F-75, agency: Alti Sport, college: Richmond) become a last puzzle piece of South Korean National Team? The answer is 'Yes'.

Korean department of justice announced that both Jarod and Greg Stevenson brothers officially became Korean citizens from today. Which means that they can be a member of Korean senior men's basketball national team.

'Playing for my mother's country is my old dream. If I can play for the national team, I will do my best to get a ticket for London Olympic next year.' Jarod smiled while interviewing with CBS.

According to the FIBA policy, each Asian team can have only one a dual citizen player or a player who changed his nationality over age 16. Therefore, Sandrin Eric (206-F/C-78, college: Seattle Pacific), Sandrin Daniel (200-F-80, college: Seattle Pacific), Akins Tony (180-G-80, agency: Court Side, college: Georgia Tech) and Stevenson bros have to compete each other to get one spot at the South Korean National Team roster.

'We need a pure shooter who can shot the ball under pressure. Also, we need a big time finisher. If Jarod can play for the country that would be perfect fit for us. He is our top priority.' South Korean National Team head coach Hur Jae said.

'I can score at anytime and any level. When the team needs me, I will play and score.' Jarod said.

Jarod probably can play since William Jones cup in August.


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  SPAIN   


U18: Spain celebrate first win in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 - Czech Republic U18 84:60

Spain earned the first win at the U18 European Championship in Poland. They overcame Czech Republic in Group C. Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) came up with 17 points, 8 assists and 5 boards to lead the effort.
Czech Republic opened the game with four points in a row but Spain soon erased the deficit and surged ahead. Spain posted a 27:23 lead after ten minutes. Spain used a 9:2 run midway through the second term to boost the margin to 13 points. But Czech Republic capped the first half with eight points in a row to cut the margin to 5 points 38:43. Spain tipped off the second half with a 13:3 run to clear off. The Spaniards outscored their opponents 24:10 in the period to pile up an 84:60 lead with one quarter remaining. Spain never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Daniel Diez (199-F-93) and Guillermo Hernangomez (203-C-94) scored 15 points each for Spain. Redondo netted 14 points in the win. Martin Kriz (202-F-93) responded with 20 points and 11 rebounds for Czech Republic. Tomas Kyzlink (197-G/F-93) had 12 points in defeat.

Spain U18: Jaime Fernandez 17, Daniel Diez 15, Guillermo Hernangomez 15
Czech Republic U18: Martin Kriz 20+11 boards, Tomas Kyzlink 12


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  SWEDEN   


U18: Sweden wins the Scandinavian opener - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18-Norway U18 90:50

Sweden U18 destroyed Norway U18 in Varna at the U18 European Championship. The Swedish side erupted for 90:50 win in the opener winning all the quarters.
Sweden enjoyed a 20-8 tear in the first period and took control of the court. Andersson closed the period at 25:10, while Jesper Eliasson (199-F-94) brought another two points in the start of the second frame. Ismaili scored for 40:17 and Asante sent the squads to the changing rooms for 49:24. Sweden surged further away with a 10-0 burst in the start of the third period when Jesper Eliasson scored for 59:24. Norway did their best to stay on race but could not compete with the stronger team. Sweden added 20-9 in the third period and won the last one 21-17. Ismaili became the last player to score in the game for the final result.
Tobias Borg (183-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 18 points, while Niklas Larsson (196-G/F-94) nailed 16. Jesper Eliasson collected 11 points and 16 rebounds and three more players added 8 apiece. Chris-Ebou Ndow (197-F/G-93) responded with 18 points and 10 rebounds in defeat and Jorgen Gjestemoen (180-G-93) posted 7.

Sweden U18: Tobias Borg 18, Niklas Larsson 16, Jesper Eliasson 11+16 rebs
Norway U18: Chris-Ebou Ndow 18+10 rebs, Jorgen Gjestemoen 7



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  SWITZERLAND   


U18: Slovak Republic overcame Switzerland at the end of the first day in Division B - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland U18-Slovak Republic U18 83:87

Slovak Republic overcame Switzerland at the end of the first day at the European Championship in Division B. The winners needed a strong second period to seal 87:83 victory.
The Swiss side began well with a 10-0 run setting the tone for a dominating first quarter. Clint N'Dumba-Capela (202-F-94) closed it for 30:18, but his team lost the game anyway. Slovak Republic limited the opponents to just 6 points in the second frame and grabbed 46:36 halftime advantage. Juricek scored for 50:38 and Simon Krajcovic (185-G-94, agency: FCM) brought 57:48. Boris Bojanovsky (215-C-93) closed thirty minutes at 67:58, while David Flaska (200-F-93) nailed three for 82:65. Switzerland tried hard to recover, but could not catch up with the Slovak side.
Boris Bojanovsky erupted with 34 points and 14 rebounds, while David Flaska scored 14. Simon Krajcovic collected 13 points, 13 assists, 8 steals and 5 rebounds. Clint N'Dumba-Capela answered with 21 points and 15 rebounds, whilst Marko Mladjan (204-F-93) added 10.

Switzerland U18: Clint N'Dumba-Capela 21+15 rebs, Marko Mladjan 10
Slovak Republic U18: Boris Bojanovsky 34+14 rebs, David Flaska 14, Simon Krajcovic 13+13 assists+8 steals+5 rebounds


*****************************************************
  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO   


World Military Championship: Trinidad and Tobago edge Cyprus - by Eurobasket News
Trinidad and Tobago - Cyprus 70:65

Trinidad and Tobago posted the third victory at the World Military Championship. They rallied past Cyprus for 3-2 record in Group A. Cyprus in the meantime slipped at 1-4 record. Keivan Bacquain (202-C) knocked down 13 points to lead the Caribbean team.
Cyprus ensured the stronger start. The European team posted a 19:14 lead at the first break. They led 21:19 midway through the second quarter but Trinidad and Tobago went on a 17:2 run to post a 36:23 halftime advantage. Trinidad and Tobago led the charge in the third frame. The Caribbean team secured a 48:43 lead with one quarter remaining. Trinidad and Tobago kept Cyprus at bay in the final frame and rolled to the victory at the end. Wilt Vincent (201-C-79) and Herdis Lewis (186-G) finished with 12 points each for the winners. Antreas Katsiamides (177-PG-91) and Nicolas Constantinou (186-G/F-91) replied with 18 points apiece for Cyprus. Kyriakos Pantziaros (195-F-91) provided 16 points in defeat.

Trinidad and Tobago: Keivan Bacquain 13, Wilt Vincent 12, Herdis Lewis 12
Cyprus: Antreas Katsiamides 18, Nicolas Constantinou 18, Kyriakos Pantziaros 16


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


U18: Germany hold off Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Germany U18 - Turkey U18 68:66

Germany eked out a tough win against Turkey in the first game of the U18 European Championship for both teams. Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) scored 15 points to lead the effort. Turkey and Germany stayed close in the first quarter. Ozen and Tekin capped the period with four points in a row as Turkey posted an 18:13 lead at the first break. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 5 points 37:32. Germany opened the second half on a 10:0 run and surged ahead. Eruklu answered with two triples as Turkey regained the lead. Besnik Bekteshi immediately stepped up with back-to-back trebles of his own as roller-coaster action continued. Germany arrived at the final intermission up by seven points 57:50. Turkey managed to get within four points with under three minutes remaining in regulation 60:64. Tayfun Erulku (188-G/F-94) dragged the Turkish team within three points 62:65 with two minutes to go. Berkay Candan (205-F-93) and Kenan Sipahi (192-G-95) put Turkey within two with 36 seconds to go. Haukohl missed a jumper but Germany grabbed an offensive rebound and gave no chance for Turkey. Dennis Schroeder (184-G-93) notched 13 points, while Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) added 11 points in the winning effort. Berkay Candan answered with 16 points for Turkey. Kenan Sipahi nailed 15 points in the loss.

Germany U18: Besnik Bekteshi 15, Dennis Schroeder 13, Bogdan Radosavljevic 11
Turkey U18: Berkay Candan 16, Kenan Sipahi 15


Dalaman A.S. Pamukkale Unv. sign Matthew Pilgrim - by Eurobasket Center
Dalaman A.S. Pamukkale Unv. (TB2L) signed 24-year old American forward Matthew Pilgrim (203-F-87, college: Oklahoma St., agency: KMG Sports Management). Pilgrim played most recently at University of Kentucky (NCAA) in the U.S. Last season he was averaging 5.4ppg, 5.7rpg and 1.3spg. It will be his first year in professional basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Mersin gets Can Mutaf on loan - by Eurobasket News
Can Mutaf (193-G-91) will spend next season with Mersin. Fenerbahce Ulker, Mutaf and Mersin agreed a one-year loan, after what the player will return to Istanbul. The young guard is a product of Fener, where he started as a teenager. He played 9 games for them in TBL averaging 4.2 points and 1.8 rebounds. In Euroleague, Mutaf had 1.3 ppg for 3 games. Season 2009/10, Can Mutaf spent on loan with FMV Isikspor. He shined with 18.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 2 spg for 26 games in TB2L. Mutaf is a member of the Turkish U20 National Team. He currently plays for U20 Turkey at the U20 EuroBasket. For six games so far he averaged 11.2 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.2 assists. Turkey will meet Russia in the Quarterfinals. In 2009, Mutaf paced U18 Turkey to Bronze at the European Championships U18 in Metz. He had 12.2 ppg and 1.8 rpg at this event.

Deron's Turkey move pends FIBA approval - by Eurobasket News
Besiktas has announced the signing of NBA star Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Illinois), but the transfer will only be finalized after the International Basketball Federation, or FIBA, approves the transfer.

FIBA will have the final say on the deal, which has been made possible by the lockout in the National Basketball Association, or NBA.

The Istanbul club was in talks with the New Jersey Nets point guard, but the official agreement was announced late Tuesday. Williams announced the deal on his Twitter account last weekend as well. 'Just made it official, headed to Turkey: signed with Besiktas@BJK_Basketbol', he wrote.

Beikta, which also boasts NBA legend Allen Iverson in its squad, will be able to keep Williams on a rolling contract that will see him leave as soon as the lockout ends.

The Williams transfer was funded by the sponsorship of Milangaz and Moil, Anatolia news agency reported. Largely heralded as one of the two top point guards in the league, along with the New Orleans Hornets Chris Paul, Williams averaged 20.1 points and 10.3 assists for the Nets and the Utah Jazz last season.

Beikta wanted to capitalize on the NBA lockout with another marquee move, and went for Kobe Bryant. However, the team, which is sweating under football match-fixing allegations, has had difficulties finding the funds to meet

Bryants reported demand of $1 million per month.

Courtesy of www.hurriyetdailynews.com

Melvin Sanders heads to Hacettepe - by Eurobasket News
Melvin Sanders (196-F/G-81, college: Oklahoma St.) heads to Hacettepe for the nexy season. The USA-Georgian player comes from Menorca Basquet where he finished the last season.
In 2006 Melvin played for San Antonio Spurs (NBA) and in 16 games averaged 2.6ppg, 1.4rpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 2-3, FT: 70.0%. The season 2010-2011 started for BK Minsk-2006 (Belarus-Premier League, starting five) and in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round showed 8.5ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.0apg, 2.0spg. In VTB League his stats read 14.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 28.2%, FT: 70.6%. In February 2011 moved to Menorca Basquet (Spain-ACB) and in 14 games showed 7.6ppg, 2.5rpg, FGP: 39.7%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 75.0%.
In his top game last season Melvin Sanders nailed 20 points at the Regular Season Day 8 in VTB when Minsk-2006 lost to Unics 78-80. Minsk-2006 trailed by 11 points at halftime and as many as 15 after three quarters before a 25-22 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 78-80 at the end of the game. Unics Kazan forced 19 Minsk-2006 turnovers. American-Russian forward Kelly McCarty orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points and 5 assists. American-Georgian swingman Melvin Sanders replied with 20 points and 6 rebounds and American guard Tywain McKee added 18 points in the effort for Minsk-2006.


Kobe Bryant reportedly in serious talks with Turkish club - by Eurobasket News
There's been plenty of back-and-forth on whether Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) would actually join forces with Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Illinois) on the Turkish club team Besiktas.

But here's the latest: Coach Ergin Ataman told reporters in Turkey that 'it is a fact that Kobe Bryant's managers have contacted us' and that he was waiting for an offer from the team. Before they would sign Bryant, however, Ataman said the team would need to secure a sponsor.

What does this actually mean? It's hard to say, because the possibility of Bryant joining that team has taken a few turns ever since it became official that Williams had signed on.

Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski has reported that Bryant is open to offers playing overseas. Some examples: Bryant and Lakers guard Derek Fisher, among others, will appear in a pair of exhibition games this weekend in the Philippines. The Times' Baxter Holmes also reported that Bryant's agent, Rob Pelinka of Landmark Sports Agency, might organize an effort in which some of his clients go on a barnstorming tour in China. But the possibility of playing with Besiktas is more uncertain. Only two days ago, ESPN.com's Marc Stein reported that the team's pursuit of Bryant was put on hold because the team's basketball funds were tied up with a match-fixing scandal linked to the Turkish national soccer team. Other reports indicated Bryant wanted $1 million a month, though Besiktas was only prepared to offer a $500,000 monthly salary.

Bryant, who has a $83.5-million contract with the Lakers through the 2013-14 season, planned on keeping an active summer despite the numerous injuries that ail him. He underwent plasma therapy to treat his surgically repaired right knee sometime in May in Germany, a controversial procedure that involves drawing a small amount of blood from the patient's arm, spinning it in a centrifuge for about 20 minutes to isolate platelets and then using ultrasound to inject the platelets into the injured area to try to stimulate tissue repair. He indicated in his exit interview that he plans to find other ways to strengthen his leg. And he's currently touring Asia as part of his efforts in promoting his Nike brand.

But whether he'd actually play competitive basketball overseas? It's too early to say, considering the financial and injury considerations. For whatever it's worth, Besiktas claims to be at least talking with Bryant.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

*****************************************************
  UBL   


UBL OWNERS MEETING - by Ozzie Denson

The UBL will be having its Owners Meeting July 30, in Little Rock, Arkansas. With 6 Teams in Texas ,Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi and Missouri getting ready for the 2012 Upcoming Season . There will be some New Teams added to the UBL 2012 Season , infomation to come. The UBL had a great 2011 season and 2012 will be even greater. The 2012 Season will start in March. As of now, the UBL is moving Players and Coaches to the next level.

UBL COME GET SOME !!

Ozzie Denson
972-781-8120
coachdenson@yahoo.com




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  UKRAINE   


Donetsk signs Ivan Radenovic - by Eurobasket News
Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona) will continue his career in Ukraine. The Serbian forward penned a two-year deal with BC Donetsk. They will compete in the Euroleague Qualifying Round. Radenovic joined countrymates point guard Vule Avdalovic (189-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) and coach Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ) in Donetsk. He arrives from Menorca Basket, where he played last season. For 31 games in ACB, Radenovic collected 11.2 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 1.2 apg. They faced with relegation from the Spanish top division. In 2009/10, Ivan Radenovic was a member of CSKA Moscow and Cajasol. With the Russians he appeared six times in Euroleague registering 2.5 ppg and 1 rpg. After that he moved to Cajasol, where he added 4.1 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 22 games in Spain. Ivan Radenovic also played for Panellinios and Girona in the past. He is a University of Arizona product, where he graduated in 2007.

BC Odessa negotiate contracts with Zack Wright and Christophe Massie - by Eurobasket News
BC Odessa are close to landing two import players. They are currently negotiating contracts with Zack Wright (188-G-85, college: Cent.Missouri) and Christophe Massie (206-F/C-77, agency: Court Side, college: Memphis). Both players spent the last season in France. They played for Limoges.
Zack Wright averaged 10.6 points, 5.3 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. The 26-year-old guard had stints with Le Mans, Chalon, Braunschweig before joining Limoges. Eurobasket.com named Zakh Wright All-German 2Bundesliga ProB Player of the Year in 2008. He also earned All-French Pro A Honourable Mention in 2010.
Christophe Massie tallied 16.9 points, 9.2 boards and 2.6 assists per game in ProA last season. The centre previously played in Greece, Bosnia, Spain, Israel and Italy. He made it into All-Bosnian League All-Imports Team.


U18: Lithuania start with big win over Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - Ukraine U18 84:51

Lithuania opened title defence with U18 European Championship with a comfortable win over Ukraine. Arturas Gudaitis (208-C-93) knocked down 14 points to lead the Baltic team to the starting win in Group D.
Lithuania used a 13:0 run midway through the opening quarter to clear off. They ensured a 28:13 advantage at the first break. Lithuania tipped off the second frame with 12 unanswered points to boost the margin to 27 points. Lithuania eased to a 47:22 lead at the interval. They maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. Ukraine faced a massive 39:70 deficit at the final break. Lithuania limited their opponents to 12 points in the final stanza and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Simonas Kymantas (204-C/F-93), Osvaldas Olisevicius (196-F-93) and Tauras Jogela (201-F-93) nailed 12 points each for the winning team. Klym Artamonov (176-G-93) and Danylo Zuikov (185-PG-94) finished with 15 points each for Ukraine.

Lithuania U18: Arturas Gudaitis 14, Simonas Kymantas 12, Osvaldas Olisevicius 12, Tauras Jogela 12
Ukraine U18: Klym Artamonov 15, Danylo Zuikov 15


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


U20: Marcotullio brings the victory over Israel - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain U20-Israel U20 83:82

Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) brings the victory over Israel with the buzzer-beater as Great Britain edged Israel at the start of the Classification Round for 9-16 places in Sarajevo. Great Britain won 83:82 as both teams are with 1-1 records in Group H.
Alex Marcotullio brought 11:3 in the opening tip and Ryan Richards (212-C/F-91, agency: Interperformances) delivered for 23:9. The latter also closed the first period at 32:13 as Great Britain totally dominated the court. Thoseby scored for 41:15, but the intrigue was not over. Guy Lavie (188-PG-92) reduced to 44:27, while Bar Timor (192-G-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) closed the half at 52:38. With 17-12 in the third period Israel cut it to 64:55 entering the last stanza. With 3 minutes to go Guy Lavie tied the game at 72:72 and his another 5 points brought 79:74 for Israel. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) reduced to 81:82 at the every end and the final shot of Alex Marcotullio became the fantastic buzzer-beater.
Ryan Richards erupted with 32 points and 14 rebounds, while Alex Marcotullio netted 18. Devon Van Oostrum netted 12 and Lee Goldsbrough (205-F-91) scored 11. Guy Lavie ended up with 21 points in defeat and Bar Timor chipped in 16.

Great Britain U20: Ryan Richards 32+14 rebs, Alex Marcotullio 18, Devon Van Oostrum 12, Lee Goldsbrough 11
Israel U20: Guy Lavie 21, Bar Timor 16


2011-12 NBA schedule features two games at O2 - by Eurobasket News
The National Basketball Association have released their schedule for the 2011-12 season which includes a pair of games on 7-8 March 2012 between the Orlando Magic and New Jersey Nets at London's O2 Arena.


This will be the second consecutive year the NBA has featured regular season games in the UK, with New Jersey and Toronto Raptors playing two games at the O2 in March 2011.

Some other key games scheduled for 2011-12 include an opening day match-up between Luol Deng's Chicago Bulls and 2011 NBA Champions Dallas Mavericks on 1 November and a Christmas Day triple header featuring Dallas v Miami, Boston v New York, and Chicago v Los Angeles Lakers.
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk

U18: England and Estonia showed one of the most interesting games in Day 1 - by Eurobasket News
England U18-Estonia U18 65:63

England and Estonia showed one of the most interesting games in the start of the U18 European Championship. The United Kingdom won the thriller 65:63 due to the last stanza.
It was a tough start and both teams tried to know more about each other in the court. They exchanged the leads several times and Rait-Riivo Laane (180-G-93) closed the frame at 19:18. Spencer tied the game at 23:23 and then his team was in front until the end of the half. Simeon Esprit (195-G/F-93) was the last to score in the second period for 35:32 halftime advantage. Estonia needed a 6-0 run midway through the third quarter to take 46:43, while Poldoja closed the period at 49:44. Graham later tied the game at 59:59 and bring the minimum advantage for England from the free throw line. Simeon Esprit and again Graham's shots were the last successful in the game as United Kingdom won the thrilling opener.
Graham paced all the winners with 12 points and Raphell Thomas-Edwards (195-F-93) as well as Simeon Esprit scored 11 each. Jamie Batish followed them with 10 points in the winning effort. Janari Joesaar (197-F-93) erupted with 27 points for Estonia and Rait-Riivo Laane notched 12.

England U18: Graham 12, Raphell Thomas-Edwards 11, Simeon Esprit 11, Jamie Batish 10
Estonia U18: Janari Joesaar 27, Rait-Riivo Laane 12



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


Venezuela's Senior NT adds Rafael Guevara, increases list to 20 players - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- The Venezuelan Basketball Federation (FVB) and head coach Eric Musselman decided to add the name of SG Rafael Guevara (194-F-79), of Bucaneros de La Guaira, to the list of 20 players called up to participate in two daily workouts for the Venezuelan Senior National Team, in an attempt to grab a spot in the final roster for the FIBA Americas Pre Olympic Tournament, to be played in Mar del Plata, Argentina, from August 30th till September 11th.

Only 9 players showed up to the first practice session. NCAA player Gregory Echenique (205-C-90), NCAA graduate Luis Valera (201-F-88), Heissler Guillent (186-G-86), Dwight Lewis (196-G-87), Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85), Jhon Romero (199-F-85), Michael Flores (192-G-85), Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80) and rookie Robert Yriarte (201-F-89).

Guevara, who averaged 14.7 points in 40 games for Bucaneros and was selected to the LPB's First Team, arrived a day later after he was contacted by the FVB. Players Nestor Colmenares (203-F-87) and Windi Graterol (204-C-86) made it a day later than expected, while NBA PG Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87) is expected to arrive on Wednesday and work inmediately. Hector Romero (202-F/C-80), currently recovering from a knee surgery, will visit the team on Thursday afternoon, surrounded by team doctors.

Players Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76), David Cubillan (183-PG-87), Rafael Perez (193-G/F-82), Luis Bethelmi (200-F/C-86), Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) and Miguel Marriaga (208-C-84) have not reported to practice yet.

LNB 2011 News - Centauros brings back Kervin Bracho and Tulio Cobos - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- The general management of Centauros de Apure continues to work on its LNB 2011 roster and after the signing of head coach Nestor Salazar, they announced, through a press release, the comeback of PF Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) and PF-C Kervin Bracho (204-F/C-78) for a season that's set to begin on September 1st.

Cobos finished his second full season with Guaiqueries de Margarita after earning the LPB Rookie of the Year Award in 2010. He averaged 7.9 points and 3.7 points in 44 regular season matches.

Bracho split time as a starter and a role player and in 31 games he finished up with an average of 6.5 points and 3.5 rebounds per game. He did not finish the regular season with Guaros de Lara (LPB) due to injury but seems on track in his recovery to make it in time for the beginning of preseason.



Heissler Guillent close to signing with San Martin (Argentina) - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan PG Heissler Guillent (186-G-86), who won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the recently finished Liga Profesional de Baloncesto (LPB), playing for Bucaneros de La Guaira, is close to signing a contract with San Martin, a team of Argentina's Liga Nacional de Baloncesto (LNB), first division basketball.

Guillent, a 24 year-old native of Caracas, 1.82m tall, is currently training with Venezuela's Senior NT in an attempt to get a spot in the final roster for the upcoming FIBA Americas Pre Olympic Tournament, to be played in Mar del Plata, Argentina, from August 30th till September 11th.

He averaged in 19.4 points, 4.8 assists and 3.2 steals in over 40 matches in his first season with Bucaneros. He was traded in the offseason of the LPB 2010 season by Guaros de Lara for PG Antonio Torcatt (182-G-76) and an undisclosed amount of money, a move considered by many as one of the biggest mistakes ever made by Lara's general management.

According to a report by Diario Litoral, Guillent is supposed to send a signed contract back to Argentina in the next few hours to make the agreement official and not only verbal. The team is supposed to start trainings on August 8th under the command of coach Leandro Ramella .

Guillent would be used as an SG and Lucas Victoriano (190-G-77) would be the starting PG. He's played in Mexico with Fuerza Regia Monterrey and in Colombia, where he won the championship of Copa Invitacional with Arrieros de Medellin.



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Women News

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Cambage to replace injured Candace Parker in 2011 WNBA All-Star Game - by Eurobasket News
Rookie center Liz Cambage (6'8''-C-91) of the Tulsa Shock has been named as a replacement player for the 2011 WNBA All-Star Game presented by adidas, league President Laurel J. Richie announced today. Cambage will take the roster spot of Los Angeles Sparks center Candace Parker on the Western Conference roster. Parker, who was voted to the game as a starter by fans, suffered a knee injury at New York on June 26 and is expected to be out of action until August.
The 2011 WNBA All-Star Game presented by adidas will be nationally broadcast on ABC, Saturday, July 23, at 3:30 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. CT). This will be the first time the San Antonio Silver Stars are hosting the midseason showcase.

The second overall selection in the 2011 WNBA Draft presented by adidas, Cambage is one of a record 11 players, four starters and seven reserves, making their first All-Star appearances, the most since 2000 when nine were selected. The 6-8, 19-year-old native of Australia becomes the fourth member of this year's rookie class to be selected to an All-Star roster. Cambage joins starter Maya Moore of Minnesota, and a pair of reserves, San Antonio forward Danielle Adams and Chicago guard Courtney Vandersloot, as first-year players appearing in the All-Star Game. This marks the most rookies named to All-Star rosters since 2006, when Seimone Augustus, Cappie Pondexter, Sophia Young, and Candice Dupree were selected.

Having played in 14 games, Cambage ranks second among Shock players in scoring (13.6 ppg) and rebounds (5.3 rpg), with statistics based on games played through Tuesday, July 19. Among all rookies, she ranks first in rebounding and blocks (1.2 bpg), and third in scoring and steals (1.3 spg).

Seattle Head Coach Brian Agler will coach the Western Conference squad by virtue of the Storm having won the 2010 WNBA championship. Atlanta Dream Head Coach Marynell Meadors, who led her club to the Eastern Conference title last season, will lead the Eastern Conference team.

As coach of the West squad, Agler will select a player from his roster to insert into the starting lineup in place of Parker.


2011 WNBA ALL-STAR ROSTERS

EASTERN CONFERENCE ALL-STARS Head Coach: Marynell Meadors (Atlanta Dream)

Player Team Pos.

Essence Carson New York Liberty Forward

Tamika Catchings Indiana Fever Forward

Tina Charles Connecticut Sun Center

Katie Douglas Indiana Fever Guard

Sylvia Fowles Chicago Sky Center

Crystal Langhorne Washington Mystics Forward

Angel McCoughtry Atlanta Dream Forward

Renee Montgomery Connecticut Sun Guard

Cappie Pondexter New York Liberty Guard

Epiphanny Prince Chicago Sky Guard

Courtney Vandersloot Chicago Sky Guard


WESTERN CONFERENCE ALL-STARS

Head Coach: Brian Agler (Seattle Storm)

Player Team Pos.

Danielle Adams San Antonio Silver Stars Forward

Seimone Augustus Minnesota Lynx Guard

Sue Bird Seattle Storm Guard

Rebekkah Brunson Minnesota Lynx Forward

Swin Cash Seattle Storm Forward

Becky Hammon San Antonio Silver Stars Guard

Maya Moore Minnesota Lynx Forward

Liz Cambage Tulsa Shock Center

Diana Taurasi Phoenix Mercury Guard

Penny Taylor Phoenix Mercury Forward

Lindsay Whalen Minnesota Lynx Guard

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com



Adelaide Lightning add two South Australians - by Eurobasket News
The Adelaide Lightning have signed young guards Georgia Minear (178-G-92) and Kelsey Ireland (171-G-91) for the upcoming WNBL season.

Ireland, 20, played for the Townsville Fire last season under new Lightning head coach Peter Buckle, playing in 20 games and averaging slightly better than 1 point and 1 rebound per game. She is currently playing in South Australias CABL off-season competition with the league-leading Norwood Flames.

Minear, 18, has spent time playing with the AIS over the past two WNBL seasons. She played in 14 games in 2010/11 and averaged 2.3 points per game.

Minear is also currently starring in the CABL competition, averaging 17.2 points per game for the Forestville Eagles, which is fifth highest in the league.

Lightning head coach Peter Buckle told Boti Nagy of the Adelaide Advertiser, that he was excited about what the two young guards could bring to their new-look roster.

'We're happy to have two young South Australians suiting up for Lightning,' Buckle said.

'I coached Kelsey in Townsville and she was very good for us in the second half of the season. I'm really happy with Georgia too.

'She's a nice, athletic shooting guard. I've been doing some training sessions with her and like how's she's been coming along.'

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

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  FRANCE - Women  


Arxil lands French prospect Onayssa Sbahi - by Eurobasket News
Arxil signed a new player for the 2011/12 season. The Spanish outfit brought in promising French guard Onayssa Sbahi (168-G-93). The 17-year-old Sbahi heads to Arxil from Villeneuve D'Asco ESB Lille Metropole. She had very limited playing time with Villeneuve last season. The same situation was in 2009/10 and Sbahi decided to move. She is a member of the French U18 National Team. They will compete this summer at the U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. The event is scheduled to start on August 4. France is placed to Preliminary Group D. Their rivals will be Slovakia, Czech Republic and Holland. Sbahi also played for the French 3x3 Team in Youth Olympic Games in Singapore, 2010.

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  SPAIN - Women  


Arxil lands French prospect Onayssa Sbahi - by Eurobasket News
Arxil signed a new player for the 2011/12 season. The Spanish outfit brought in promising French guard Onayssa Sbahi (168-G-93). The 17-year-old Sbahi heads to Arxil from Villeneuve D'Asco ESB Lille Metropole. She had very limited playing time with Villeneuve last season. The same situation was in 2009/10 and Sbahi decided to move. She is a member of the French U18 National Team. They will compete this summer at the U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. The event is scheduled to start on August 4. France is placed to Preliminary Group D. Their rivals will be Slovakia, Czech Republic and Holland. Sbahi also played for the French 3x3 Team in Youth Olympic Games in Singapore, 2010.

Celta keeps Sara Gomez and Deborah Rodriguez - by Eurobasket News
Celta announced signing of one-year contract extension with Sara Gomez (168-G-86) and Deborah Rodriguez (187-C-89).
Sara Gomez will play her third season with Celta. She joined them in 2009 from Extrugasa. Last season Gomez appeared 26 times in LFB averaging 5.9 points, 2 rebounds and 2.2 assists. In 2009/10, she registered 4.8 ppg, 2 rpg and 2.1 apg for 26 games. Gomez was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LFB Most Improved Player of the Year -10. She played for U21, U20 and U18 Spanish National Team in the past.
Deborah Rodriguez joined the club last summer from Codigalco Carmelitas Ourense. She had very limited playing time last season. In four games, Rodriguez averaged less than a point.

Caja Rural Zamarat keeps center Laura Gimeno - by Eurobasket News
Laura Gimeno (193-F/C-87) will stay with Caja Rural Zamarat. Two sides penned a one-year contract extension. Gimeno joined the club in 2006 from Mann Filter Zaragoza. She appeared 54 times with Caja Rural last season averaging 11.9 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.4 assists in LF2. In 2009/10, Gimeno had 7.7 ppg and 5.6 rpg. Laura Gimeno played for U20 Spanish National Team in 2006 and 2007. He paced them to Gold medal at the European Championships U20 in Sofia. For 8 games at this event, Gimeno had 9.3 ppg and 5.4 rpg. She also played for U18 and U16 Spain in the past. With U18 Spain she won the Silver at the 2005 European Championships U18.

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  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO - Women  


National team prepares for CBC - by Don Farrell

Senior Womens National basketball coach Ivan Flores will arrive in T&T today after spending time in Puerto Rico where the team was originally scheduled to visit for a pre Caribbean Basketball Championship camp. Also set to arrive today along with Flores is Finnish based player Ayanna Phillip who will join her team-mates in training. The team will take to the Eastern Regional Indoor Sport Arena (ERISA) in Tacarigua this morning from 9 am. The team which was almost complete with foreign and local based players was in training at the Central Regional Indoor Sport Arena (CRISA), Chaguanas, yesterday.

Several foreign college and club based players including Mariam Seale, Melissa Guerero, Tonya Aaron and American born Jonee Billy have arrived within the week, while Shenelle Harris and Shakira Clarke have been in T&T since June. Pietra Gay, assistant national team coach, admitted that venues for training have been difficult to secure ahead of the dates in which the team can train at the Jean Pierre Complex basketball courts on, Wrightson Road. The Sport Company of T&T (SporTT) secured the venue, Jean Pierre Complex as the official training facility for the rest of training leading up to the day prior to the teams departure to the Bahamas on July 30.

Gay said that the team will likely have the opportunity to take on several scrummages, one of which may be with a select team of girls between the ages of 16-21 years which will be leaving soon after for an invitational tournament in Venezuela. The national team is hoping to have the match on Tuesday at ERISA but it to be confirmed, said Gay. Gay also mentioned that a number of other matches are trying to be confirmed in the build up to the tournament, including one against second division Defence Force. The players, both local and foreign are accommodated at a villa in Central Trinidad and will shuttled to and from the training and match venues both of which are being financed by SporTT.

guardian


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  WNBA - Women  


Standings
WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Indiana F. 10-6 
 2. Connecticut S. 9-5 
 3. New York L. 9-7 
 4. Chicago S. 8-8 
 5. Atlanta D. 6-9 
 6. Washington M. 3-11 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 10-4 
 2. Phoenix M. 10-5 
 3. S.Antonio SS 9-4 
 4. Seattle S. 7-7 
 5. L.Angeles S. 6-8 
 6. Tulsa S. 1-14 


Shock signs Oklahoma standout Abi Olajuwon - by Eurobasket News
Former Oklahoma standout, Abi Olajuwon (6'4''-C-88, agency: Merit Sports, college: Oklahoma) will return to the Sooner state as she was signed by the Tulsa Shock earlier today.

Olajuwon played at Oklahoma from 2006 to 2010 and had her best year as a senior when she averaged 10.6 points and 7.3 rebounds on 50.6 percent shooting from the field on a team that made it to the Final Four.

'We need more size and I think that's what she brings - defense and rebounding ability that we are currently lacking,' Interim Head Coach Teresa Edwards said.

Olajuwon was drafted with the fourth pick in the third round in the 2010 WNBA Draft by Chicago and appeared in six games for the Sky last season, averaging five minutes a game.

In order to make room on the roster, the Shock waived second-year player Marion Jones. Jones appeared in 47 games for the Shock in the past two seasons, averaging 8.6 minutes a game.

'I want to thank the Tulsa Shock, Coach Richardson, the WNBA and my tremendous teammates for providing me the opportunity to fulfill a dream, and a platform to demonstrate to people, especially our youth, that if you have faith, life is full of second chances,' Jones said. 'I love the game and welcome another opportunity to contribute to women's professional basketball.'

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Cambage to replace injured Candace Parker in 2011 WNBA All-Star Game - by Eurobasket News
Rookie center Liz Cambage (6'8''-C-91) of the Tulsa Shock has been named as a replacement player for the 2011 WNBA All-Star Game presented by adidas, league President Laurel J. Richie announced today. Cambage will take the roster spot of Los Angeles Sparks center Candace Parker on the Western Conference roster. Parker, who was voted to the game as a starter by fans, suffered a knee injury at New York on June 26 and is expected to be out of action until August.
The 2011 WNBA All-Star Game presented by adidas will be nationally broadcast on ABC, Saturday, July 23, at 3:30 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. CT). This will be the first time the San Antonio Silver Stars are hosting the midseason showcase.

The second overall selection in the 2011 WNBA Draft presented by adidas, Cambage is one of a record 11 players, four starters and seven reserves, making their first All-Star appearances, the most since 2000 when nine were selected. The 6-8, 19-year-old native of Australia becomes the fourth member of this year's rookie class to be selected to an All-Star roster. Cambage joins starter Maya Moore of Minnesota, and a pair of reserves, San Antonio forward Danielle Adams and Chicago guard Courtney Vandersloot, as first-year players appearing in the All-Star Game. This marks the most rookies named to All-Star rosters since 2006, when Seimone Augustus, Cappie Pondexter, Sophia Young, and Candice Dupree were selected.

Having played in 14 games, Cambage ranks second among Shock players in scoring (13.6 ppg) and rebounds (5.3 rpg), with statistics based on games played through Tuesday, July 19. Among all rookies, she ranks first in rebounding and blocks (1.2 bpg), and third in scoring and steals (1.3 spg).

Seattle Head Coach Brian Agler will coach the Western Conference squad by virtue of the Storm having won the 2010 WNBA championship. Atlanta Dream Head Coach Marynell Meadors, who led her club to the Eastern Conference title last season, will lead the Eastern Conference team.

As coach of the West squad, Agler will select a player from his roster to insert into the starting lineup in place of Parker.


2011 WNBA ALL-STAR ROSTERS

EASTERN CONFERENCE ALL-STARS Head Coach: Marynell Meadors (Atlanta Dream)

Player Team Pos.

Essence Carson New York Liberty Forward

Tamika Catchings Indiana Fever Forward

Tina Charles Connecticut Sun Center

Katie Douglas Indiana Fever Guard

Sylvia Fowles Chicago Sky Center

Crystal Langhorne Washington Mystics Forward

Angel McCoughtry Atlanta Dream Forward

Renee Montgomery Connecticut Sun Guard

Cappie Pondexter New York Liberty Guard

Epiphanny Prince Chicago Sky Guard

Courtney Vandersloot Chicago Sky Guard


WESTERN CONFERENCE ALL-STARS

Head Coach: Brian Agler (Seattle Storm)

Player Team Pos.

Danielle Adams San Antonio Silver Stars Forward

Seimone Augustus Minnesota Lynx Guard

Sue Bird Seattle Storm Guard

Rebekkah Brunson Minnesota Lynx Forward

Swin Cash Seattle Storm Forward

Becky Hammon San Antonio Silver Stars Guard

Maya Moore Minnesota Lynx Forward

Liz Cambage Tulsa Shock Center

Diana Taurasi Phoenix Mercury Guard

Penny Taylor Phoenix Mercury Forward

Lindsay Whalen Minnesota Lynx Guard

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com



Latest games - by Eurobasket News
Washington M. - Atlanta D. 79-86
Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) scored a season-high 33 points to lead the Atlanta Dream to an 86-79 victory over the Washington Mystics on Wednesday. 'Before the game, I was thinking how I heard Michael Jordan say one time, he always picked his spots before the game - and that's what I did,' said McCoughtry, who will play in Sunday's WNBA All-Star Game. 'I picked my spots where I would probably hit the most shots.' Visualizing shot locations before a game isn't a regular strategy for the Atlanta forward, who focused on a few areas just below the free-throw line. 'Maybe I need to do it before every game,' said McCoughtry, who also set season highs with 10 field goals, 11 free throws made and 17 free-throw attempts. The Dream won their first road game since June 14, when they beat the New York Liberty before going on a three-game road skid. Atlanta went on a 6-0 run down the stretch to seal the victory, getting baskets from Sandora Irvin, Armintie Price and Lindsey Harding (5'8''-G-84, college: Duke), before the Mystics began intentionally fouling. The game's other All-Star, Crystal Langhorne, had 24 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and three steals for the Mystics, and Marissa Coleman added 21 points, including 5-of-8 shooting on 3-pointers. Nicky Anosike grabbed 14 rebounds, but was held to five points after torching Atlanta for 29 points in a victory June 9. Matee Ajavon added 12 points, and Jasmine Thomas had 10 points, including eight in the fourth quarter, for Washington. *Courtesy of www.cleveland.com

Phoenix M. - Minnesota L. 98-106
Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) scored a season high-tying 25 points and the Minnesota Lynx pulled away for a 106-98 victory over Phoenix on Wednesday, snapping the Mercury's six-game winning streak. Lindsay Whalen (5'8''-G-82, college: Minnesota) had 16 points and Maya Moore, Rebekkah Brunson and Taj McWilliams-Franklin each added 14 for the Lynx, who won their third straight and fifth in six games to move a half-game ahead of the Mercury in the Western Conference. Diana Taurasi scored 24 points, Penny Taylor added 23 and Candice Dupree finished with 14 for Phoenix, which had not lost since June 28 at Indiana. The Mercury also had their five-game home winning streak end. Phoenix led 51-50 at halftime on the strength of Taylor's 14 points including 3-of-3 shooting from beyond the 3-point arc. But Augustus scored eight points, including a pair of 3-pointers, and McWilliams-Franklin added five as the Lynx opened the second half with a 16-6 run to take a 66-57 lead with 6:28 left in the third quarter. Minnesota stretched its lead to 88-73 with 8:32 remaining and the Mercury got no closer than the final margin, courtesy of DeWanna Bonner's deep 3-pointer with 8 seconds left. Augustus finished 11 for 15 from the floor and also added six rebounds and four assists. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Atlanta D. - Indiana F. 84-74
Defending Eastern Conference champion Atlanta won back-to-back games for the first time this season, including an impressive win over current conference leader Indiana. Even so, All-Star Angel McCoughtry says it's too early to suggest the Dream made a statement with Tuesday's 84-74 win over the Fever. 'Not yet,' McCoughtry said. 'The thing about it is we still haven't reached our potential. We can be so much better.' Lindsey Harding scored 19 points to lead the Dream, who were limited by injuries and McCoughtry's foul trouble. McCoughtry scored 15 points in only 19 minutes because of early fouls. *Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Chicago S. - Seattle S. 78-69
All-Stars Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) and Epiphanny Prince (5'9''-G-88, college: Rutgers) combined for 47 points to lead the Chicago Sky to a 78-69 win over the Seattle Storm on Tuesday night. Fowles, the WNBA scoring leader, had 24 points and nine rebounds, and Prince added 23 points for Chicago (8-8), which won its second in three games. Both players were announced as All-Star reserves at halftime. Sue Bird scored 26 points for the Storm (7-7), who dropped their third straight. Chicago led 69-68 with 3:15 to play following Bird's fourth 3-pointer of the game, but Prince scored four points during a 9-1 run to help the Sky take control. Ashley Robinson had 14 points and Swin Cash added 10 for Seattle. *Courtesy of www.cbsnews.com

Connecticut S. - New York L. 85-79
Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored eight of her 24 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Connecticut Sun to an 85-79 win against the New York Liberty on Tuesday night. The Sun (9-5) won their third consecutive game heading into the All-Star break and moved into sole possession of first place in the Eastern Conference. Connecticut leads second-place Indiana by percentage points. 'It feels great because I remember last season we had a back-to-back against New York and Atlanta before the All-Star break and we lost both games going into the break,' Charles said. 'It feels great to go into the break this time around after three wins. It was a tough win, but it showed how well we have been playing at home.' Renee Montgomery added 13 points and 10 assists for Connecticut, the lone remaining unbeaten team in the WNBA at home this season (7-0). *Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

L.Angeles S. - S.Antonio SS 69-79
Becky Hammon (5'6''-G-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) scored 26 points to lead the San Antonio Silver Stars to a 79-69 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks on Monday night. Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) had 18 points and 10 rebounds while Jia Perkins added 14 points as the Silver Stars improved to a league-best 5-1 on the road. San Antonio (9-4) let a 15-point, first-quarter lead dwindle to one in the fourth before holding on to win their second straight following three consecutive losses. Jantel Lavender and Natasha Lacy scored 14 points each for the Sparks (6-8), while Jenna O'Hea finished with 12 points and 11 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.sacbee.com



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  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U19 - Women  


Standings (Women)
Standings
Group A
1. Canada0-0
2. China0-0
3. Egypt0-0
4. Italy0-0
Group B
1. Argentina0-0
2. Japan0-0
3. Russia0-0
4. USA0-0
Group C
1. Australia0-0
2. Chile0-0
3. France0-0
4. Nigeria0-0
Group D
1. Brazil0-0
2. Spain0-0
3. Slovenia0-0
4. Taiwan0-0