EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/24/2011

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Men News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


KK Zagreb sign three players - by Eurobasket News
KK Zagreb brought in three new players. The team has agreed on terms of contracts with Papa Dia (205-F-87), Gary McGhee (208-C-88) and Diante Garrett (193-G-88).
Papa Dia has just graduated from the Southern Methodist University. He tallied 18.3 points, 9.6 boards, 2.2 blocks and 1.8 assists per game in his senior season. Papa Dia was named All-C-USA Defensive Player of the Year. The forward participated at Pre-NBA Draft Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. His stats read 8.3 points and 7.0 boards per game there.
Gary McGhee also inked his first pro deal. The rookie comes from the University of Pittsburgh. The 22-year-old centre averaged 6.9 points, 7.7 boards and 1.3 blocks per game in his senior season. Gary McGhee also participated at Pre-NBA Draft Portsmouth Invitational tournament. His stats came up to 9.0 points, 8.5 boards and 1.0 block per game there.
Diante Garrett is another rookie who has just graduated from the Iowa State University. The 22-year-old guard posted 17.3 points, 6.1 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game in his senior season. Dinate Garrett participated at Portsmouth Invitational Tournament registering 10.7 points, 3.0 assists, 2.3 boards and 1.3 steals per game.


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  ANGOLA   


Angola prevail against Iran in Guimaraes - by Eurobasket News
Angola - Iran 74:57

Angola opened win count at the international friendly tournament in Guimaraes. They shot down Iran in the opener. Carlos Morais (190-G-85) stepped up with 17 points to lead the effort.
Angola set the tone early. They outscored Iran 20:12 in the opening quarter. Angola maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They arrived at halftime up by 11 points 35:24. The teams increased the tempo in the third quarter. Angola however managed to keep Iran at distance. The African team arrived at the final intermission up by 11 points 56:45. Angola limited Iran to 12 points in the final period and rallied to the victory at the end. Milton Barros (184-G-84) delivered 13 points, while Eduardo Mingas (200-F-79) and Jorge Tati (197-F-83) finished with 9 points each in the victory. Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83) answered with 19 points for Iran. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) chipped in 11 points in the loss.

Angola: Carlos Morais 17, Milton Barros 13, Eduardo Mingas 9, Jorge Tati 9
Iran: Samad Nikkhah 19, Hamed Afagh 11


Guimares International Tournement - Day 1 - by Antonio Santos
Angola National Team beat Iran 74 x 57 ( 20x12; 15x12; 21x21; 18x12) on Guimares International Tournement.
On the other game Portugal beat Romnia 79 x 48. Both teams will face each other on the second day of the tournament.
This tournament is part of the preparation for Afrobasket as far as Angola National Team and for Portugal it will part of the preparation for the European championship qualified games.
Angola x Iran box score:
Angola: V. Joaquim; P. Santana 6pt; C. Morais 17pt+4st; D. Bonifcio 2pt+4to; R. Fortes 6pt; L. Paulo 1pt; J. Gomes 3pt; H. Mbungo; F. Ambrsio 8pt+6reb; J. Tati 9pt (3/6 3pt%); M. Barros 13pt; E. Mingas 9pt
Iran best performances: H. Afagh 11pt; S. Bahrari 19pt


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  AUSTRIA   


U20: Serbia stay undefeated in classification round - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U20 - Austria U20 101:47

Serbia drubbed Austria in the classification round of U20 European Championship. Thus the Serbian team posted the fifth straight win in the battle against relegation. Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 26 points to pace the winners. Austria fell at 2-3 record and would fight for their life against Lithuania tomorrow.
Serbia posted a 19:15 lead after ten minutes of action. Serbia opened the second quarter on a 9:2 run to ensure a 28:17 lead. The margin kept on growing throughout the second quarter. The Balkan team secured a 41:22 halftime lead. Danilo Andjusic (197-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Nemanja Nedovic teamed up for 17 points in the third quarter as Serbia stretched their lead to as many as 40 points 70:30. Austria never recovered in the final period and had to surrender at the end. Danilo Andjusic netted 23 points, while Dusan Ognjenovic (216-C-91) added 12 points in the victory. Daniel Friedrich (180-G-92) answered with 17 points for Austria. Mathias Gunka (205-C/F-91) and Erik Fruhwirth (204-C/F-91) netted 8 points each in the loss.

Serbia U20: Nemanja Nedovic 26, Danilo Andjusic 23, Dusan Ognjenovic 12
Austria U20: Daniel Friedrich 17, Mathias Gunka 8, Erik Fruhwirth 8


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  BAHRAIN   


Bahrain juniors outclass Qatar - by Patrick Salomon
BAHRAIN thrashed Qatar 78-43 last night to register a rousing start to their campaign in the 14th GCC Junior Basketball Championships, being held in Jeddah.
Big man Mohammed Ameer (pictured) was the star of the game, scoring a team-high 21 points. He was a force in the paint on both ends of the floor, as he helped the Bahrainis claim the rousing 35-point triumph in style.
Bahrain took a 15-8 lead at the end of the opening quarter, which they stretched to a commanding 34-18 advantage heading into the half-time interval.
The Qataris valiantly tried to fight back in the third period, but only cut their deficit by two, 47-33, with one quarter to play.
The nationals stepped it up in the games closing moments, going up by 20, 57-37, three minutes into the final canto, and then cruising the rest of the way.
Ameer capped the victory in spectacular fashion on Bahrains final possession, scoring on a break away slam dunk that went unchallenged.
Following the match, Ameer was named the player of the game by hosts the Saudi Arabian Basketball Federation. He was rewarded with a BD50 prize.
The Bahrainis, who were runners-up in the previous championships in 2009, are coached by American Erik Rashad. Also playing well for Bahrain were Ahmed Salman, Hassan Al Aradi and Ali Sharqala.
In yesterdays other game, defending champions Kuwait beat Oman 91-53.
Today, Bahrain face Saudi, the UAE take on Oman and Qatar go against Kuwait.

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  BELGIUM   


U20: Estonia shock Belgium and advanced to Division A in 2012 - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U20-Estonia U20 61:64

Estonia shock Belgium and advanced to Division A in 2012. The Baltic side handed Belgium their first loss at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo and took their spot in the Final against Georgia tomorrow. Janar Soo (195-G/F-91) nailed a three-pointer for 64:61 victory in the most exciting game of the Semifinal Stage.
It was the last game of the day and actually the most interesting. Belgium started with 5-0 run, but Estonia grabbed the lead back midway through the period. Only at the end of the frame Dennis Donkor (194-G/F-91) closed the period for 18:17 and Ojomoh brought 28:24. Three times the score was tied later in the frame and Rademakers remained it at 34:34 after 20 minutes. Belgium played better in the third period and led from the beginning until the end. Terry Deroover (180-G-91) scored for 51:48, but Martin Dorbek (191-G-91) closed the quarter at 51:49. Rain Veideman (192-G-91) tied it all at 61:61 with 2 minutes remaining and Janar Soo scored a three-pointer after Ojomoh missed two free throws.
Rain Veideman stepped up with 15 points for Estonia and Rannar Raap (188-G/F-92) as well as Janar Soo posted 13 apiece. Martin Dorbek followed them with 12 points for a sensational win. Pierre-Antoine Gillet (202-F-91) finished the game with 15 points and 14 rebounds, while Dennis Donkor delivered 14.

Belgium U20: Pierre-Antoine Gillet 15+14 rebs, Dennis Donkor 14, Terry Deroover 12
Estonia U20: Rain Veideman 15, Rannar Raap 13, Janar Soo 13, Martin Dorbek 12



U18: Estonia post the initial victory, upset Belgium in Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U18-Belgium U18 54:47

Estonia and Belgium played twice last night at the European Championship in Division B. Estonia U20 shock Belgium U20 and advanced to Division A in 2012. The Baltic side handed Belgium their first loss at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo and took their spot in the Final against Georgia tomorrow. Janar Soo nailed a three-pointer for 64:61 victory in the most exciting game of the Semifinal Stage.
Estonia U18 meanwhile roll over Belgium U18 54:47 in Varna. The latter won the first period 17:10 and looked forward to seal another victory after first two in Day 1 and 2. El Khounchar brought 21:13 and Rienert Torreele (192-F-93) posted three for 24:17. The latter also closed the half from the arc for 27:19 lead at the halftime. Estonia needed a strong second half to win the game. They produced 11-5 in the third quarter and won the game due to 24-15 in the last.
Rait-Riivo Laane (180-PG-93) paced all the winners with 20 points, while Oliver Metsalu (190-G-93), Janari Joesaar (197-F-93) and Kristo Mangelsoo (205-F-93) scored 6 apiece. Rienert Torreele posted 10 points in the losing effort and El Khounchar notched 9.

Estonia U18: Rait-Riivo Laane 20, Oliver Metsalu 6, Janari Joesaar 6, Kristo Mangelsoo 6
Belgium U18: Rienert Torreele 10, El Khounchar 9



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  BOSNIA   


U20: The hosts of the Division B starts with 18-0 tear to beat Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News
Bosnia and Herzegovina U20-Bulgaria U20 78:65

Bosnia and Herzegovina outscored Bulgaria in the Classification game for the 5-8 places in Sarajevo to face Portugal tomorrow for the fifth place. The hosts of the Division B won over Bulgaria 78:65 after a strong start. Bulgaria meanwhile will play with Denmark for the 7-8 places at the tournament.
Bosnia and Herzegovina won the opening tip 18-0 and never looked behind after. Mujic closed the first period at 28:9 and Vrabac scored for 32:12. Bulgaria managed to reduce to 10 points at the halftime as they won the second frame 17-8. Moreover Konstantin Koev (195-F-91) cut it to 50:44 and Tsonkov scored for 54:47. Bosnia and Herzegovina however deserved the win more and more than 200 fans saw the final push of the team that held the winning finish. Mirza Bulic (204-F-92) was the last to score in the game for the final result.
Miralem Halilovic (206-F-91) top-scored for the home side with 29 points and 11 rebounds. Mirza Bulic collected 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, while Mladen Lukic (208-C-92) notched 10. Konstantin Koev responded with 16, points and Plamen Hristov (197-F/G-91) had 15.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U20: Miralem Halilovic 29+11 rebs, Mirza Bulic 19+8 rebs+6 ast, Mladen Lukic 10
Bulgaria U20: Konstantin Koev 16, Plamen Hristov 15, Ivanov 12



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  BRAZIL   


Limeira sign american Jon Rogers - by Paulo Freire
The Winner/Limeira team announced the hiring of the american center Jon Rogers (204-F/C-84, college: Valdosta St.) a product of Valdosta St. in 2006. Rogers has been around as he has played on teams from Norway, Germany, Czech Rep., New Zealand and Uruguay.

'Defender's my main feature. I believe a good defense wins games and championships. I hope to put it into practice in Winner/Limeira too,' he said. Rogers

On the Uruguayan basketball, where he played in the Union Atletica in 2010-2011 season . The player has also the third best average in league rebounding (10.6 per game), the second in blocks (2.7 per game). Rogers credits his good numbers to his defensive style of play.


Mogi das Cruzes sign Calderon, Eric Soares and Fabricio Chagas - by Paulo Freire
The Gremio Esportivo Mogi das Cruzes/Unip basketball team is still working on their roster for the Paulista State Championship.

The new moves were made to improve their size under the basket. Team manager agreed with Pedro I. Calderon (209-C-80) former Assis Basket and Eric Soares (205-F-86) former Vila Velha. Another new player is Chagas Fabricio (187-G-77), moke kwoning as Fabricinho who was playing at Americana Basketball team.

Calderon, is a long time friend of the manager of the team, Danilo who was a former teammate of Calderon in Sao Bernardo dos Campos. Eric Soares is back on the Sao Paulo basketball after a long time, since he was in Araraquara in 2007. Fabricinho will help the guard position both in 1 and 2 position, coming from the bench.

Rio Claro lands Alexandre Pinheiro, Castellon and Luis Fernando Pascotti - by Paulo Freire
The ACBD Rio Claro basketball team has some new faces on the guard position for the Paulista State Championship.

Returning to the team for a second season is point guard Alexandre Pinheiro (185-G-85), former Sao Jose dos Campos who will be the guy to call the plays of the team. Coming from Bauru is Rafael Fernandes (85), more knowing as Castellon who first sign a deal with Assis Basket for these season, but the Assis team folded for financial problems. Calderon will do again a great front court with Rafu Da Silva (197-G/F-83, college: New Haven, agency: Garra Sports Marketing) as they play together in Sao Bernardo dos Campos.

For the point guard position also is coming in the young Luis Pascotti (190-G-90), who will probably get more minutes as a professional after been a product of Limeira young basics teams.

ACBD Rio Claro also waived guard Thiago Pereira (188-G-82), in an agreement with the director board, the player was released for this season and will be on the market.

Jacarei team sign brazilians that where in College plus Fusco and Jefferson Campos - by Paulo Freire
The Jacarei Basketball hired three new players for the Paulista State Championship. The swingman Rafael Fusco (192-F-78) and big mans Douglas Kurtz (213-C-87) and Edvaldo Lima (206-C-84, college: Arizona W. CC).

Rafael Fusco, 32 years old, was playing in the Americana Basketball team. He had stints with some national clubs such as Pinheiros, Paulistano, Sorocaba, among others. Douglas Kurtz is from Pelotas city of Rio Grande do Sul he played at the University of Hawaii. In Brazil, Kurtz played at Joinville, he will add some college experience to the team among Edvaldo Lima who also has been in college at EUA.

Edvaldo Lima, known as 'Ed' or 'Eddie'. In 2011, the athlete played the Brazil Cup Northeast Region and Super Cup Brazil for the Sport Recife team. The athlete, who has had stints at the University of North Alabama, Cal.St. Fullerton and Arizona Western JC after leaving Brazil, where he played for the Araraquara team. Ed is happy with the opportunity to defend Jacarei Basketball and spoke for the first time as an athlete on the team.

- I'm bouncing with excitement. I'm dying to get Jacare and start working. The coach Deco is giving me the opportunity to return to the Brazilian basketball scene after a long time and I want to grab that chance with tooth and nails - said Edvaldo Lima said.

The point guard Jefferson Campos (190-G-91) renewal his contract with the team. Jefferson, played for Paulistano in the last years, in the end of the NBB season he was loan to Jacarei to play the New Millennium Tournament. His decision to stay in the team was based on several factors.

- I have all the opportunities to grow and win my place on the national scene here in Jacarei, moreover, the city and the fans welcomed me with open arms and gave me some comfort. I feel at home when I use the team shirt and I step up to play on the court - said the player.

World Military Championship: Brazil hold off USA to enter Final - by Eurobasket News
Brazil - USA 59:52

Brazil entered the title game at the World Military Championship. The hosts overcame the USA in the second semifinal today to set up the clash versus Greece for the title. Frederico Lima (180-PG-80) nailed 14 points to pace balanced effort from Brazil.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening period. USA eked out a 12:11 lead ten minutes into the game. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The visitors established a 29:27 halftime lead. But Brazil turned things around after the break. The home team went on a 9:2 run to spur ahead. Brazil secured a 41:34 lead with one quarter remaining. USA cut the deficit to just three points midway through the final period but Brazil stayed calm in the decisive moments of the encounter and sealed the victory at the end. Nezinho dos Santos (186-G-81) produced 13 points, while Arthur Luiz Belchior (200-G/F-82) added 10 points in the win. Matt Holland (198-F) responded with 17 points and 9 rebounds for the USA. Matt McCraw (188-G) posted 9 points in defeat.

Brazil: Frederico Lima 14, Nezinho dos Santos 13, Arthur Luiz Belchior 10
USA: Matt Holland 17, Matt McCraw 9


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  BULGARIA   


Sportmedia.tv showing LIVE the games from U 18 Eurobasket in Varna - by Christomir Rackov
Today Sportmedia.tv will show LIVE on internet all the games from U 18 Eurobasket 2011, division B in Varna. The internet television will broadcast LIVE today's games from the championship as well in the next days. Bulgarian NT will play against Georgia today looking for its second win. All the games will be LIVE on internet. The championship in Varna is already under way so viewers from all over Europe and other countries can see the interesting matches.

U18: The hosts of the European Championship in Division B won the second game in a row - by Eurobasket News
Georgia U18-Bulgaria U18 55:67

The hosts of the U18 European Championship in Division B won the second game in a row. Bulgaria overcame Georgia 67:55 to join Hungary on top of Group A. Georgia meanwhile dropped to 0-2 record and shares the bottom with Luxembourg.
Bulgaria opened the game with 5-0 run and did not allow the opponents to taste the lead in the half. Tencho Tenchev (202-F-93) and Dimitrov scored for 17:3, while Tsirekidze closed the period at 22:13. Beka Burjanadze (201-F-94) however tied the game at 25:25 as Georgia erupted with a massive run midway through the second quarter. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) meanwhile nailed two three-pointers in the end of the half for 35:29 advantage. Georgia meanwhile started the third quarter with a 9-0 run and took 38:35 lead. Bulgaria later needed some important baskets to enter the last period with 49:44 deficit. Another 18-11 in the last frame brought them the second victory in Division B this year.
Pavlin Ivanov stepped up with 15 points for the home side, whilst Tencho Tenchev notched 14 and Aleks Simeonov (200-F-93) brought 10. Aleksandre Chochia (185-F-93) produced 14 points in defeat and Beka Burjanadze nailed 13.

Georgia U18: Aleksandre Chochia 14, Beka Burjanadze 13, Irakli Mikeladze (179-PG-94) 11
Bulgaria U18: Pavlin Ivanov 15, Tencho Tenchev 14, Aleks Simeonov 10


U20: The hosts of the Division B starts with 18-0 tear to beat Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News
Bosnia and Herzegovina U20-Bulgaria U20 78:65

Bosnia and Herzegovina outscored Bulgaria in the Classification game for the 5-8 places in Sarajevo to face Portugal tomorrow for the fifth place. The hosts of the Division B won over Bulgaria 78:65 after a strong start. Bulgaria meanwhile will play with Denmark for the 7-8 places at the tournament.
Bosnia and Herzegovina won the opening tip 18-0 and never looked behind after. Mujic closed the first period at 28:9 and Vrabac scored for 32:12. Bulgaria managed to reduce to 10 points at the halftime as they won the second frame 17-8. Moreover Konstantin Koev (195-F-91) cut it to 50:44 and Tsonkov scored for 54:47. Bosnia and Herzegovina however deserved the win more and more than 200 fans saw the final push of the team that held the winning finish. Mirza Bulic (204-F-92) was the last to score in the game for the final result.
Miralem Halilovic (206-F-91) top-scored for the home side with 29 points and 11 rebounds. Mirza Bulic collected 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, while Mladen Lukic (208-C-92) notched 10. Konstantin Koev responded with 16, points and Plamen Hristov (197-F/G-91) had 15.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U20: Miralem Halilovic 29+11 rebs, Mirza Bulic 19+8 rebs+6 ast, Mladen Lukic 10
Bulgaria U20: Konstantin Koev 16, Plamen Hristov 15, Ivanov 12



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  CBC CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Standings (Men)
Standings
Group A
1. Antigua0-0
2. Guyana0-0
3. US Virg.Isl0-0
4. Jamaica0-0
Group B
1. Bahamas0-0
2. Bermudas0-0
3. Cayman Isla.0-0
4. British Vir.0-0
5. Saint Vince.0-0


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  CHINA   


Taiwan edge Zhejiang Golden Bulls in friendly - by Eurobasket News
Taiwan NT - Zhejiang Golden Bulls 97:85

Taiwan National Team continued their preparations for the upcoming Fiba Asia Championship. They overcame Zhejiang Golden Bulls of the CBA in the first game of two-game exhibition series. Creighton Doug (195-F-85) scored 19 points to lead the effort. The teams are scheduled to meet again tonight.
Wen-Ting Tseng (202-C/F-84) delivered 18 points in the victory. Chen HsinAn (196-G/F-80) and Ho Shou-Cheng (197-F-83) added 11 points for Taiwan. Li Qingxiang answered with 19 points for Zhejiang. Cao Fei (194-F-91) accounted for 18 points in the losing effort.
Taiwan will participate at the William Jones Cup starting on August 6. Fiba Asia Championship is slated to start on September 15 in Wuhan. Taiwan got into preliminary round Group B alongside Qatar, Iran and Middle Asia Qualifier.

Taiwan: Creighton Doug 19, Wen-Ting Tseng 18, Chen HsinAn 11, Ho Shou-Cheng 11
Zhejiang Golden Bulls: Li Qingxiang 19, Cao Fei 18


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  CROATIA   


KK Zagreb sign three players - by Eurobasket News
KK Zagreb brought in three new players. The team has agreed on terms of contracts with Papa Dia (205-F-87), Gary McGhee (208-C-88) and Diante Garrett (193-G-88).
Papa Dia has just graduated from the Southern Methodist University. He tallied 18.3 points, 9.6 boards, 2.2 blocks and 1.8 assists per game in his senior season. Papa Dia was named All-C-USA Defensive Player of the Year. The forward participated at Pre-NBA Draft Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. His stats read 8.3 points and 7.0 boards per game there.
Gary McGhee also inked his first pro deal. The rookie comes from the University of Pittsburgh. The 22-year-old centre averaged 6.9 points, 7.7 boards and 1.3 blocks per game in his senior season. Gary McGhee also participated at Pre-NBA Draft Portsmouth Invitational tournament. His stats came up to 9.0 points, 8.5 boards and 1.0 block per game there.
Diante Garrett is another rookie who has just graduated from the Iowa State University. The 22-year-old guard posted 17.3 points, 6.1 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game in his senior season. Dinate Garrett participated at Portsmouth Invitational Tournament registering 10.7 points, 3.0 assists, 2.3 boards and 1.3 steals per game.


U20: Lithuania keep hopes alive with win over Croatia - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - Croatia U20 92:68

Lithuania celebrated the second win at the classification round of U20 European Championship. They prevailed against Croatia to improve at 2-3 record in Group G. Lithuania will take on Austria in the decisive game for both teams in their fight for Division A survival. Croatia fell at 1-4 record after the loss and had their hopes go dim in the survival battle.
Lithuania capped the first period on a 10:3 run to take a 26:17 lead. They opened the second period with 10 points in a row to ensure a 36:17 lead. But Duje Dukan (208-F-92) drained three triples in a 19:1 run from Croatia as they cut the deficit to a single point 36:37. The Croatian team finally pulled in front and establish a 45:44 halftime advantage. Lithuania returned in front with a 10:1 run midway through the third quarter. They arrived at the final break leading by as many as 11 points 70:59. The Baltic team triggered a 12:0 rally at the start of the final quarter to clear off for good in this one. Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) netted 19 points for Lithuania. Arnas Butkevicius (199-F-92) had 17 points in the victory. Ivan Batur (203-G/F-91) and Duje Dukan responded with 11 points each for Croatia.

Lithuania U20: Dovydas Redikas 19, Arnas Butkevicius 17, Karolis Brusokas (200-F-91) 12, Augustas Peciukevicius (191-G-91) 12
Croatia U20: Ivan Batur 11, Duje Dukan 11


U18: Croatia rally past Poland to stay undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U18 - Poland U18 78:72

Croatia registered the third straight win at the U18 European Championship. They upset the hosts to clinch the top spot in Group A. Mislav Brzoja (198-F/G-94) notched 22 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge. Poland fell at 2-1 record after the loss and claimed the second place in the ladder.
It all looked the Polish way in the opening frame. The hosts fired 27 points to ensure a 7-point lead into the second quarter. But Croatia used an 8:0 run midway through the second term to surge ahead. Michalak and Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) gave the lead back to Poland at halftime 37:34. Mateusz Ponitka stretched the gap to 7 points midway through the third period 47:40. Croatia answered with a 10:1 run to pull in front. They arrived at the final break leading by two points 53:51. Antonio Boban (200-F/G-93) and Stipe Krstanovic (204-F/C-93) ensured a 6-point lead for the visitors in the fourth quarter. Mateusz Ponitka stepped up for the hosts once again as Poland denied the deficit 67:67 with just over two minutes to go. However Antonio Boban followed with consecutive three-pointers and Matej Buovac (198-G/F-93) sank two free throws as Croatia ran away with the win at the end. Stipe Krstanovic notched 15 points and 11 boards, while Matej Buovac and Antonio Boban netted 11 points apiece in the victory. Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) responded with 17 points and 11 boards for Poland. Mateusz Ponitka accounted for 18 points in the loss.

Croatia U18: Mislav Brzoja 22, Stipe Krstanovic 15+11 boards, Matej Buovac 11, Antonio Boban 11
Poland U18: Przemyslaw Karnowski 17+11 boards, Mateusz Ponitka 18


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


U20: Shengelia leads Georgia to Division A - by Eurobasket News
Georgia U20-Czech Republic U20 74:72

Tornike Shengelia (207-G/F-91) leads Georgia to Division A for the next season. He erupted with 33 points and 12 rebounds as Georgia won over Czech Republic 74:72 in the semifinal clash of Division B at the European Championship.
Tomas Vyoral (188-PG-92) brought his team the first five points and Ondrej Peterka (202-F-91) scored for 7:2. Trailing 6:11 midway thought the first frame, Georgia exploded with 13-0 run for 19:11 lead. They added later an 9-0 run as Chikviladze brought 34:22. The Czechs meanwhile bounced back with 14-0 run for 36:34. Tornike Shengelia closed the first half at 37:38 as Georgia trailed 1 point at the halftime. In the third period Georgia needed 19-17 for 56:55 advantage after thirty minutes. The end was really emotional in the court as the teams fought for the Division A spot. Ondrej Peterka gave Czech Republic 72:71 lead, but Tornike Shengelia scored for the final victory.
Akaki Dvalishvili (206-C/F-90) nailed 14 points and Givi Bakradze (185-PG-91, agency: Gamble Sports Management) posted 9. Tomas Vyoral and Ondrej Peterka notched 20 points each in defeat and Ondrej Balvin (215-C-92) had 10 points and 11 caroms.

Georgia U20: Tornike Shengelia 33+12 rebs, Akaki Dvalishvili 14, Givi Bakradze 9
Czech Republic U20: Tomas Vyoral 20, Ondrej Peterka 20, Ondrej Balvin 10+11 rebs


U18: Latvia edge Czech Republic to stay in title race in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18 - Czech Republic U18 71:46

Latvia advanced into the Qualifying Round at U18 European Championship in Wroclaw. They outgunned Czech Republic in the decisive game for both teams in Group C. Latvia thus improved at 1-2 record and clinched the third spot, while Czech Republic fell at 0-3 record and would play in relegation round. Janis Berzins (200-F/G-93, agency: Players Group) stepped up with 12 points and 7 rebounds to lead the Baltic side.
Latvia opened the game with a strong 13:2 run. They erupted for 28 points in the period to take a 14-point lead after ten minutes. Latvia tipped off the second period on an 11:0 run to boost the margin to 25 points 39:14. Latvia ensured a comfortable 44:23 halftime lead. The third term was another sad story for Czech Republic. Latvia scored 10 points in a row at the beginning of the period to clear off. They rallied to a 56:31 lead with one quarter remaining. Latvia never looked back afterwards cruising to the first win at the tournament. Oskars Reinfelds (190-G-94) delivered 10 points for Latvia. Klavs Strazdins (191-G/F-93) and Andrejs Grazulis (203-C/F-93) added 9 points each in the victory. Tomas Kyzlink (197-F/G-93) responded with 14 points for Czech Republic. Petr Herman (204-C-94) netted 11 points in defeat.

Latvia U18: Janis Berzins 12, Oskars Reinfelds 10, Klavs Strazdins 9, Andrejs Grazulis 9+14 boards
Czech Republic U18: Tomas Kyzlink 14, Petr Herman 11


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


U20: Portugal overcame Denmark in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U20-Portugal U20 61:83

Portugal won the first Classification game for the 5-8 places at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. They needed 83:61 over Denmark to face Bosnia tomorrow in the game for the fifth place. Denmark meanwhile will face Bulgaria for the 7th-8th places.
Portugal started strong and grabbed 8:2 after Torrie's shot. Wildner and Cardoso closed the first period 20:8. The players scored the first five shots in the second frame as the board showed 26:15 for Portugal. Bennedsen and Alexander Bak (193-F-91) reduced to 40:29 and Jonas Bergstedt (210-C-91) sent the teams to the lockers for 44:33. Portugal did not allow the opponents to reduce the game and kept 10-point deficit. Carlos Ferreirinho (200-F/G-91) nailed three at the end of the third period for 57:47. Due to 26-14 in the last quarter Portugal clinched the victory and will be ready for the 5th-place-game tomorrow.
Carlos Ferreirinho top-scored for the winners with 30 points and Henrique Sico (192-G-92) nailed 15. Jonas Bergstedt ende dup with 22 points and 9 rebounds, while Alexander Bak posted 15 and Thomas Laerke (194-G/F-91) scored 13.

Denmark U20: Jonas Bergstedt 22+9 rebs, Alexander Bak 15, Thomas Laerke 13
Portugal U20: Carlos Ferreirinho 30, Henrique Sico 15




U18: Denmark improved to 2-0 record in Group B - by Eurobasket News
England U18-Denmark U18 42:60

Denmark improved to 2-0 record in Group B of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Danish side rolled over England 60:42 in Day 3 dominating the majority of the game.
Sentance and Moller exchanged the early baskets in the opening tip, while Denmark went on a 9-0 run as Esben Reinholt (196-G-93) nailed three for 11:2. Gertz made a free throw at the end of the quarter for 16:7. England managed to win the second period 10-7 as the board showed 23:17 at the halftime. Spencer and Crook reduced to 4 points, while a 7-0 run allowed the Danish team to take 41:30 after thrity minutes. They added 19-12 in the last quarter to win another game in Varna.
Esben Esben Reinholt led Denmark with 16 points and six rebounds. Jamie Batish led England with 12 points, seven rebounds and three assists, while Zak Wells (93) added ten boards to his eight points. Jordan Culley finished with seven points for an England team who again shot poorly from three-point range - hitting only 11 percent from downtown.

England U18: Jamie Batish 12, Zak Wells 8
Denmark U18: Esben Reinholt 16, Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) 9


Danish National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
Danish National Team 2011
#s#
Chris Nielsen
Nielsen
Rasmus Dalboge
Dalboge
Mikkel Plannthin
Plannthin
Mikael Nielsen
Nielsen
Peter Dahl Knudsen
Knudsen
#e#5
4 Chris Nielsen 192-G/F-85 Bakken Denmark
5 Rasmus Dalboge 191-G-89 Aabyhoj Denmark
6 Mikkel Plannthin 195-G-88 Svendborg Denmark
7 Mikael Nielsen 178-PG-90 SISU Denmark
8 Peter Dahl Knudsen 195-G/F-88 Broome CC USA
9 Mike Flowers 193-G Barton, NC USA
10 Darko Jukic 199-G-90 Aabyhoj Denmark
11 Morten Sahlertz 198-F-89 Horsens IC Denmark
12 Christian Lindberg 195-F-83 Horsens IC Denmark
13 Nicolai Iversen 205-F/C-80 Svendborg Denmark
14 Chris Christoffersen 218-C-79 Bakken Denmark
15 Casper Hesseldal 198-F-85 Sacramento St. USA

Peter Hoffman Head Coach


*****************************************************
  EL SALVADOR   


Standings - Liga Superior
LEBES Standings
 1. Denver 4-0 
 2. San Marcos 4-0 
 3. Santa Tecla 3-2 
 4. ExSAL 2-2 
 5. Leones 2-2 
 6. UTEC 1-4 
 7. Roll Royce 0-6 


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


U18: Estonia post the initial victory, upset Belgium in Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U18-Belgium U18 54:47

Estonia and Belgium played twice last night at the European Championship in Division B. Estonia U20 shock Belgium U20 and advanced to Division A in 2012. The Baltic side handed Belgium their first loss at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo and took their spot in the Final against Georgia tomorrow. Janar Soo nailed a three-pointer for 64:61 victory in the most exciting game of the Semifinal Stage.
Estonia U18 meanwhile roll over Belgium U18 54:47 in Varna. The latter won the first period 17:10 and looked forward to seal another victory after first two in Day 1 and 2. El Khounchar brought 21:13 and Rienert Torreele (192-F-93) posted three for 24:17. The latter also closed the half from the arc for 27:19 lead at the halftime. Estonia needed a strong second half to win the game. They produced 11-5 in the third quarter and won the game due to 24-15 in the last.
Rait-Riivo Laane (180-PG-93) paced all the winners with 20 points, while Oliver Metsalu (190-G-93), Janari Joesaar (197-F-93) and Kristo Mangelsoo (205-F-93) scored 6 apiece. Rienert Torreele posted 10 points in the losing effort and El Khounchar notched 9.

Estonia U18: Rait-Riivo Laane 20, Oliver Metsalu 6, Janari Joesaar 6, Kristo Mangelsoo 6
Belgium U18: Rienert Torreele 10, El Khounchar 9



U20: Estonia shock Belgium and advanced to Division A in 2012 - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U20-Estonia U20 61:64

Estonia shock Belgium and advanced to Division A in 2012. The Baltic side handed Belgium their first loss at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo and took their spot in the Final against Georgia tomorrow. Janar Soo (195-G/F-91) nailed a three-pointer for 64:61 victory in the most exciting game of the Semifinal Stage.
It was the last game of the day and actually the most interesting. Belgium started with 5-0 run, but Estonia grabbed the lead back midway through the period. Only at the end of the frame Dennis Donkor (194-G/F-91) closed the period for 18:17 and Ojomoh brought 28:24. Three times the score was tied later in the frame and Rademakers remained it at 34:34 after 20 minutes. Belgium played better in the third period and led from the beginning until the end. Terry Deroover (180-G-91) scored for 51:48, but Martin Dorbek (191-G-91) closed the quarter at 51:49. Rain Veideman (192-G-91) tied it all at 61:61 with 2 minutes remaining and Janar Soo scored a three-pointer after Ojomoh missed two free throws.
Rain Veideman stepped up with 15 points for Estonia and Rannar Raap (188-G/F-92) as well as Janar Soo posted 13 apiece. Martin Dorbek followed them with 12 points for a sensational win. Pierre-Antoine Gillet (202-F-91) finished the game with 15 points and 14 rebounds, while Dennis Donkor delivered 14.

Belgium U20: Pierre-Antoine Gillet 15+14 rebs, Dennis Donkor 14, Terry Deroover 12
Estonia U20: Rain Veideman 15, Rannar Raap 13, Janar Soo 13, Martin Dorbek 12



*****************************************************
  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


ESL 2011 Houston features a lot of talent - by Darryl Reshaw
The ESL Houston event began on Friday afternoon at the The 'GYM' venue.
Scouts from Iceland, South America, Taiwan, Europe and other leagues were in attendance.

There were some remarkable performances especially by Brad Reese (6'6''-F-88, agency: TM Sports) and David Tairu (6'3''-G-86, agency: TM Sports) of Texas Tech
and Kris Richard (6'5''-G-90) (6'5''-G-90) from Tulane.
Other players who separated their games from the rest of the pack included Ricky Rickey Huckaby (6'2''-G-83, college: Tex.A&M-Kingsv.), Jamil Terrell (6'7''-F/C-80, agency: TSS Management, college: W.Texas A&M), Mike Singletary (6'6''-F-88) and Lorenzo Davis (6'10''-C-82, college: Mountain St.).

This is one of the most talented ESL events to date and there are lots of quality players who are professionals.

The ESL will feature full game reports and box scores of all three days of the Houston event later this weekend.


ESL Houston Game Schedule

Friday July 22nd:

12pm: Beijing 92 Buenos Aires 83
2pm: Dubai 101 Tokyo 90
4pm: Rio de Janerio 74 Okinawa 71
6pm: Mexico City 132 Taipei 123

Saturday July 23rd

10am: Beijing vs. Dubai G4
11:30am: Buenos Aires vs. Tokyo G5
1pm: ESL 3-Point Shootout
1:30pm: ESL Slam Dunk Contest
2pm: Rio de Janerio vs. Mexico City G6
3:30pm: Okinawa vs. Taipei

Sunday July 24th

10am: Loser G6 vs. Loser G8 (7th Place)
11:30am: Winner G6 vs. Winner G8 (5th Place)
1pm: Winner G5 vs. Winner G7 (1st Place)
2:30pm: Loser G5 vs. Loser G7 (3rd Place)

The Venue is as follows:

The GYM
2325 Atascocita Road
Humble, TX 77396
(281) 540 - 4GYM

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


Spartak SP confirm Vladimir Dragicevic and Pavel Sergeev - by Eurobasket News
Spartak Saint Petersburg officially announced the signing of Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) and Pavel Sergeev (187-G-87, agency: RIZO) for the next season.
Vladimir Dragicevic finished last season with Caja Laboral. He joined them in May averaging 4.3 points and 1.6 rebounds for 8 games in ACB. Vladimir Dragicevic started last season with Buducnost Podgorica registering 16.1 ppg and 7 rpg for 27 Adriatic league games. He helped them reach the Semifinals. In EuroCup, Dagicevic had 19 ppg and 4 rpg in four games, while in two Euroleague Qualifications games he averaged 15.5 points and 5.5 rebounds. Dragicevic was a member of Buducnost since 2007. In 2009/10 he had 10.9 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 26 games in Adriatic league. He also added 14.2 ppg and 5.6 rpg for 12 EuroChallenge appearances. Before Buducnost, Dragicevic played for Lovcen Cetinje.
Pavel Sergeev played for Enisey in the last season. The 23-year-old guard posted 9.0 points, 2.8 assists and 2.2 rebounds per appearance in PBL. Sergeev used to play for Spartak Saint Petersburg back in 2004/07 seasons.


Gran Canaria locks Xavi Rey until 2014 - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria announced signing of Xavier Rey (209-C-87, agency: Interperformances) to a three-year contract extension. It means that the Spanish center will stay with the club until the end of 2013/14 season. Rey joined Granca last summer from Cajasol. He appeared 33 times in ACB averaging 7.8 points and 4.8 rebounds. He also added 9.5 ppg and 3.9 rpg for 13 games in EuroCup. With Cajasol in 2009/10, Xavier Rey had 3 ppg and 1.9 rpg for 30 games. In the past, he was a member of Barca, Alerta Cantabria Lobos and Cornella. Xavier Rey also played for U20 and U18 Spanish National Team. In 2007, he helped U20 Spain to win the Silver at the European Championships U20 in Nova Gorica. He had 15.5 ppg and 9.5 rpg for 8 games at this event.

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


Kalin Lucas joins Olympiakos - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos have agreed on terms of contract with Kalin Lucas (185-G-89). The rookie comes from the Michigan State University. He tallied 17.0 points, 3.4 assists, 2.1 boards and 1.0 steal per game in his senior season. Kalin Lucas was named into All-Big Ten 2nd Team. Kalin Lucas earned AP NCAA All-America Honourable Mention in 2009 and 2010.


Kerem Gonlum suffers serious knee injury - by Eurobasket News
Kerem Gonlum (208-C/F-77) is out of EuroBasket 2011 in Lithuania. The Turkish center will be also forced to miss first part of the Euroleague and TBL regular season. He suffered serious knee injury (ACL) during the practice of the Turkish National Team. Bad news for them and for Anadolu Efes as well. Kerem Gonlum played 8 games at the World Championship last summer averaging 4.1 points and 4.4 rebounds. His experience under the basket was one of the crucial things for Team Turkey. Last season with Efes Pilsen, Gonlum had 12.3 ppg and 7 rpg for 31 games in TBL. He also added 9.4 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 15 Euroleague games. Gonlum was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Honorable Mention -11. He is a member of Efes (now Anadolu Efes) since 2005. Before that, Gonlum played for Ulker.

BC Donetsk agree on terms of contract with DeMarcus Nelson - by Eurobasket News
DeMarcus Nelson (193-G-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Duke) will continue his career in Ukraine. He has reportedly agreed on terms of contract with BC Donetsk. The 25-year-old guard played in France last season. DeMarcus Nelson averaged 9.2 points, 3.3 boards and 1.5 assists per game in Euroleague. In French ProA the guard notched 10.8 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.4 assists per appearance. DeMarcus Nelson had stints with Air Avellino, Austin Toros, KK Zagreb, Golden State Warriors and Bakersfield Jam before moving to France in 2010.


ESL 2011 Houston features a lot of talent - by Darryl Reshaw
The ESL Houston event began on Friday afternoon at the The 'GYM' venue.
Scouts from Iceland, South America, Taiwan, Europe and other leagues were in attendance.

There were some remarkable performances especially by Brad Reese (6'6''-F-88, agency: TM Sports) and David Tairu (6'3''-G-86, agency: TM Sports) of Texas Tech
and Kris Richard (6'5''-G-90) (6'5''-G-90) from Tulane.
Other players who separated their games from the rest of the pack included Ricky Rickey Huckaby (6'2''-G-83, college: Tex.A&M-Kingsv.), Jamil Terrell (6'7''-F/C-80, agency: TSS Management, college: W.Texas A&M), Mike Singletary (6'6''-F-88) and Lorenzo Davis (6'10''-C-82, college: Mountain St.).

This is one of the most talented ESL events to date and there are lots of quality players who are professionals.

The ESL will feature full game reports and box scores of all three days of the Houston event later this weekend.


ESL Houston Game Schedule

Friday July 22nd:

12pm: Beijing 92 Buenos Aires 83
2pm: Dubai 101 Tokyo 90
4pm: Rio de Janerio 74 Okinawa 71
6pm: Mexico City 132 Taipei 123

Saturday July 23rd

10am: Beijing vs. Dubai G4
11:30am: Buenos Aires vs. Tokyo G5
1pm: ESL 3-Point Shootout
1:30pm: ESL Slam Dunk Contest
2pm: Rio de Janerio vs. Mexico City G6
3:30pm: Okinawa vs. Taipei

Sunday July 24th

10am: Loser G6 vs. Loser G8 (7th Place)
11:30am: Winner G6 vs. Winner G8 (5th Place)
1pm: Winner G5 vs. Winner G7 (1st Place)
2:30pm: Loser G5 vs. Loser G7 (3rd Place)

The Venue is as follows:

The GYM
2325 Atascocita Road
Humble, TX 77396
(281) 540 - 4GYM

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


Results and Stats from Day 3 in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Croatia - Poland 78-72
Croatia registered the third straight win at the U18 European Championship. They upset the hosts to clinch the top spot in Group A. Mislav Brzoja (198-F/G-94) notched 22 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge. Poland fell at 2-1 record after the loss and claimed the second place in the ladder. It all looked the Polish way in the opening frame. The hosts fired 27 points to ensure a 7-point lead into the second quarter. But Croatia used an 8:0 run midway through the second term to surge ahead. Michalak and Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) gave the lead back to Poland at halftime 37:34. Mateusz Ponitka stretched the gap to 7 points midway through the third period 47:40. Croatia answered with a 10:1 run to pull in front. They arrived at the final break leading by two points 53:51. Antonio Boban (200-F/G-93) and Stipe Krstanovic (204-F/C-93) ensured a 6-point lead for the visitors in the fourth quarter. Mateusz Ponitka stepped up for the hosts once again as Poland denied the deficit 67:67 with just over two minutes to go. However Antonio Boban followed with consecutive three-pointers and Matej Buovac (198-G/F-93) sank two free throws as Croatia ran away with the win at the end. Stipe Krstanovic notched 15 points and 11 boards, while Matej Buovac and Antonio Boban netted 11 points apiece in the victory. Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) responded with 17 points and 11 boards for Poland. Mateusz Ponitka accounted for 18 points in the loss.

Slovenia - Greece 66-64
Slovenia celebrated the first win at the U18 European Championship. They held off Greece in the crucial game in Group A. The victory allowed Slovenia to advance into the next round of action. Greece fell at 0-3 record and would fight against relegation in classification round. Luka Rupnik (184-PG-93) provided 14 points to lead the charge. The teams stayed close in the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 17:17 after ten minutes of action. Greece pulled in front early in the second quarter. But Slovenia capped the period with a 6:3 run to establish a 34:33 halftime lead. Luka Rupnik gave Slovenia a 7-point lead midway through the third term. Slovenia arrived at the final intermission up by eight points 53:45. Slovenia pulled in front for a 13-point lead following a 7:0 rally early in the fourth quarter 60:47. However the Hellenes sparked the intrigue with a 12:0 run that cut the deficit to just two points with 25 seconds remaining. Rok Gominsek (204-F-93) answered with a jumper and Slovenia escaped with a narrow win at the end. Matej Rojc (198-G-93) nailed 12 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, while Rok Gominsek netted 8 points in the victory. Emmanouil Tselentakis (195-F-93) answered with 11 points and 10 boards for Greece. Dimitrios Agravanis (203-F-94) and Fotios Zoumpos (191-G-93) notched 9 points each in the loss.

Group B
Finland - Germany 56-88
Germany registered the second win at the preliminary round of U18 European Championship. They overcame Finland to improve at 2-1 record in Group B. The win however did not allow Germany to finish higher than the third position in the ladder. Finland wrapped up their preliminary round campaign winless. Finland looked hopeful in the opening quarter. They grabbed a 17:16 lead after ten minutes. But Germany opened the second quarter on a 9:0 run to spur in front. Germany outscored their opponents 25:7 in the period to ensure a 41:24 halftime lead. Finland could not get any closer in the third quarter. Germany entered the fourth frame up by as many as 23 points 65:42. Things got just worse for the Finnish side late in the game as Germany coasted to the victory. Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) stepped up with 18 points to lead the effort. Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) added 16 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Joonas Caven (210-C/F-93) answered with 13 points for Finland. Kalle Naapi (189-G-93) netted 11 points in defeat.

Turkey - Serbia 82-75
Turkey wrapped up their preliminary round campaign at U18 European Championship with victory. They prevailed against Serbia to improve at 2-1 record. Turkey thus clinched the second position in the ladder just behind Serbia. Tayfun Erulku (188-G/F-94) stepped up with 21 points to pace the winners in this one. The lead changed hands for several times in the first quarter as Turkey eventually posted a 25:22 lead after ten minutes. Tayfun Erulku and Ugur Dokuyan made it 31:22 early in the second quarter. Turkey opened a double-digit lead midway through the second frame but Serbia were able to cut it back to 4 points at halftime 38:42. Djordje Milosevic (198-F/G-93) and Milic finally pulled Serbia in front in the third quarter. Mitrovic capped the period with a three-point play as Serbia went into the final quarter up by two points 62:60. Serbia were still up by to 69:67 with just over three minutes remaining. But Kenan Sipahi (192-PG-95) drained two triples in a row and then Ugur Dokuyan and Tayfun Erulku sank four free throws as Turkey sneaked past Serbia at the end. Samet Geyik (206-F-93) nailed 17 points for the winners. Kenan Sipahi contributed 13 points for Turkey. Vasilije Micic (192-PG-94, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 19 points for Serbia. Djordje Milosevic notched 16 points in defeat.

Group C
Czech Republic - Latvia 46-71
Latvia advanced into the Qualifying Round at U18 European Championship in Wroclaw. They outgunned Czech Republic in the decisive game for both teams in Group C. Latvia thus improved at 1-2 record and clinched the third spot, while Czech Republic fell at 0-3 record and would play in relegation round. Janis Berzins (200-F/G-93, agency: Players Group) stepped up with 12 points and 7 rebounds to lead the Baltic side. Latvia opened the game with a strong 13:2 run. They erupted for 28 points in the period to take a 14-point lead after ten minutes. Latvia tipped off the second period on an 11:0 run to boost the margin to 25 points 39:14. Latvia ensured a comfortable 44:23 halftime lead. The third term was another sad story for Czech Republic. Latvia scored 10 points in a row at the beginning of the period to clear off. They rallied to a 56:31 lead with one quarter remaining. Latvia never looked back afterwards cruising to the first win at the tournament. Oskars Reinfelds (190-G-94) delivered 10 points for Latvia. Klavs Strazdins (191-G/F-93) and Andrejs Grazulis (203-C/F-93) added 9 points each in the victory. Tomas Kyzlink (197-F/G-93) responded with 14 points for Czech Republic. Petr Herman (204-C-94) netted 11 points in defeat.

France - Spain 63-72
Spain clinched the top spot in preliminary round Group C of U18 European Championship. They held off France to enter the Qualifying Round with a perfect record. Daniel Diez (199-F-93) tallied 15 points and 10 rebounds to lead the winners. France and Spain stayed close in the opening quarter. The lead changed hands for several times before Sanz, Guillermo Hernangomez (203-C-94) and Fernandez secured a 23:18 lead for Spain at the first break. Spain stretched the margin to 9 points midway through the second frame. France managed to get within five points 33:38 at halftime. Les Bleus used a 6:0 run in the third term to get within a single point 42:43 but Daniel Diez reacted with a three-pointer to keep Spain on top. Spain entered the fourth quarter up by four points 50:46. France stayed within striking distance early in the fourth period but a pair of three-pointers from Alejandro Redondo (198-F/G-93) kept Spain in charge. Alejandro Redondo, Sanz and Daniel Diez made it 68:57 for the Spaniards with just over a minute to go. France could not recover and had to yield at the end. Alejandro Redondo provided 13 points, while Guillermo Hernangomez added 11 points and 7 boards in the victory. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) came up with 14 points and 10 boards for France. Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) netted 10 points in defeat.

Group D
Ukraine - Italy 80-85
Italy posted the second win at the U18 European Championship in Poland. They toppled Ukraine to improve at 2-1 record in Group D. Amedeo Della Valle (192-G-93) scored 20 points to lead the Azzurri. Ukraine fell at 0-3 record and would fight to avoid relegation in classification round for 13th-16th place. Ukraine had their backs against the wall entering the game. They gave a fierce battle to Italy in this one. The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter as Monaldi finally made it 21:20 for the Azzurri. Amedeo Della Valli stretched the gap to 6 points midway through the second quarter. The seesaw action continued but Falluca had the last laugh in the half as his three-pointer secured a 38:37 advantage for Italy. Vladimir Gerun (206-C-94) and Klym Artamonov (176-PG-93) put Ukraine in front early in the second half. And once again the quarter turned out to be a close battle with neither side able to run away. Amedeo Tessitori (203-C-94) put Italy up by three points 60:57 with ten minutes to go. Amedeo Della Valli and Monaldi gave the Azzurri a 64:57 lead early in the final quarter but Ukraine erased the deficit. Klym Artamonov dragged Ukraine in charge 75:73 with just over four minutes to go. They were still by one 78:77 with under two minutes to go. Amedeo Tessitori and Amedeo Della Valli gave the lead back to Italy and later Amedeo Tessitori and Monaldi sealed the victory for Italy. Amedeo Tessitori nailed 19 points, while Matteo Imbro (190-PG-94) contributed 12 points in the winning effort. Vladimir Gerun answered with game-high 29 points and 14 boards for Ukraine. Klym Artamonov netted 26 points and issued 5 assists in the loss.

Russia - Lithuania 78-82
Lithuania kept their record spotless at U18 European Championship. The defending champions outscored Russia to clinch top spot in Group D. Russia slipped at 1-2 record in the third position in the ladder. Paulius Semaska (183-PG-93) scored 17 points to pace the Baltic team. Russia opened the game with nine points in a row. They stayed in charge throughout the opening quarter to record an 18:14 lead ten minutes into the game. Russia maintained the lead throughout the bigger part of the second term. But Lithuania capped the half with six points in a row to level things up at 33 after twenty minutes. The lead changed hands for numerous times throughout the third term. Finally Karpenko and Vladislav Trushkin (200-F-93) gave Russia 58:54 lead into the fourth quarter. Martynas Paliukenas (178-PG-93) triggered a 12:0 rally from Lithuania midway through the final stanza as they grabbed a 72:62 lead. Russia got back within six points but Lithuania stayed in control and raced to the victory at the end. Martynas Paliukenas provided 16 points, while Simonas Kymantas (204-C/F-93) had 12 points and 12 boards in the win. Vladislav Trushkin answered with 21 points and 13 boards for Russia. Gleb Goldyrev (200-F-93) nailed 13 points in defeat.



M-Standings - Group B
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Bulgaria2-0
2. Hungary2-0
3. Luxembourg.0-2
4. Georgia0-2
Group B
1. Denmark2-0
2. Belgium2-1
3. Estonia1-1
4. U.Kingdom1-2
5. Portugal0-2
Group C
1. Holland2-0
2. Romania1-1
3. Montenegro.1-1
4. Austria0-2
Group D
1. Slovakia3-0
2. Sweden2-1
3. Israel1-1
4. Norway0-2
5. Switzerlan.0-2


Standings Division A
Standings
Group A
1. Croatia3-0
2. Poland2-1
3. Slovenia1-2
4. Greece0-3
Group B
1. Serbia2-1
2. Turkey2-1
3. Germany2-1
4. Finland0-3
Group C
1. Spain3-0
2. France2-1
3. Latvia1-2
4. Czech Rep.0-3
Group D
1. Lithuania3-0
2. Italy2-1
3. Russia1-2
4. Ukraine0-3


Division C: Results and Stats from Day 4 in Serravalle - by Eurobasket News
San Marino and Wales reached the third straight victories at the U18 European Championship Men, Division C. They will face off for the title last day of the tournament.
In Day 4 San Marino destroyed Gibraltar 72:36. The hosts of the tournament started with 29-10 and never looked behind after. They added 18-4 in the second frame as the board showed 47:14 at the halftime. San Marino also added 9-8 in the third period and won the last frame 16-14. Davide Macina (178-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Guerra nailed 15. Bado replied with 17 points in the losing effort.
Wales edged Andorra 64:62 in a real thriller. They won the first period 18-14, but Andorra reduced to 3 points at the halftime. Moreover Jacob Lloyd (185-G-94) could only bring 44:42 after three quarters and Brighach Abaslama tied the game at 62:62 with 20 seconds remaining. Jacob Lloyd brought the victory for Wales with a buzzer-beater. The latter topscored for the winners with 22 points, while Klan netted 14. Moline posted 15 points in the losing effort.



Stats Leader
Points Per Game
 Chris NDOW
  (195-F/G-93)
  Avg: 34
 1. Ndow, NOR34.0 
 2. Bojanovsky, SVK24.7 
 3. Ivanov, BUL18.5 
 4. Kovacs, HUN18.0 
 5. Borg, SWE17.3 
 6. Olah, ROM17.0 
 7. Petica, ROM16.5 
 8. Joesaar, EST16.5 
 9. Laane, EST16.0 
 10. Krajcovic, SVK15.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Boris BOJANOVSKY
  SVK
  (215-C-93)
  Avg: 15.3
 1. Bojanovsky, SVK15.3 
 2. Olah, ROM14.5 
 3. Eliasson, SWE14.3 
 4. N''Dumba-C., SUI12.0 
 5. Nagy, HUN11.0 
 6. Filip, ROM10.5 
 7. Tenchev, BUL10.0 
 8. Hammink, NED10.0 
 9. Magarity, SWE10.0 
 10. Nikolic, MNT9.5 
Assists Per Game
 Simon KRAJCOVIC
  (185-G-94)
  Avg: 10
 1. Krajcovic, SVK10.0 
 2. Kasalica, MNT6.5 
 3. Karamfilov, BUL6.0 
 4. Cristiean, ROM5.5 
 5. Petrov, BUL5.0 
 6. Polyak, HUN5.0 
 7. de Lange, NOR4.5 
 8. Laane, EST4.0 
 9. Novysedlak, SVK4.0 
 10. Schilder, NED4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Akos KOVACS
  (184-G-88)
  Avg: 6
 1. Kovacs, HUN6.0 
 2. Krajcovic, SVK5.7 
 3. Laane, EST4.5 
 4. Gvozden, AUT4.0 
 5. Borg, SWE3.7 
 6. Laurent, LUX3.5 
 7. Polfer, LUX3.5 
 8. Petica, ROM3.5 
 9. Ndow, NOR3.0 
 10. Graham, ENG3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Boris BOJANOVSKY
  SVK
  (215-C-93)
  Avg: 4
 1. Bojanovsky, SVK4.0 
 2. Olah, ROM3.5 
 3. Dimitrov, BUL3.0 
 4. Magarity, SWE3.0 
 5. Kok, NED3.0 
 6. Melcher, LUX2.0 
 7. N''Dumba-C., SUI2.0 
 8. Kovacs, HUN2.0 
 9. Koprivica, MNT2.0 
 10. Petras, SVK1.7 


Stats Leaders Div. A
Points Per Game
 Amedeo DELLA VALLE
  (192-G-93)
  Avg: 21.3
 1. Della Valle, ITA21.3 
 2. Ponitka, POL19.0 
 3. Karnowski, POL16.7 
 4. Artamonov, UKR16.3 
 5. Brzoja, CRO16.0 
 6. Olisevicius, LTU15.7 
 7. Goldyrev, RUS15.7 
 8. Gerun, UKR15.3 
 9. Redondo, ESP14.3 
 10. Erulku, TUR14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mouhammadou JAITEH
  (206-C-94)
  Avg: 10
 1. Jaiteh, FRA10.0 
 2. Ramljak, CRO9.7 
 3. Brzoja, CRO9.7 
 4. Karnowski, POL9.3 
 5. Kymantas, LTU9.0 
 6. Jankovic, SRB9.0 
 7. Mitrovic, SRB8.3 
 8. Dinal, FRA8.3 
 9. Radosavljevi., GER8.0 
 10. Grazulis, LAT8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Vasilije MICIC
  (192-PG-94)
  Avg: 6
 1. Micic, SRB6.0 
 2. Rupnik, SLO5.7 
 3. Fernandez, ESP5.7 
 4. Grochowski, POL5.0 
 5. Imbro, ITA4.7 
 6. Paliukenas, LTU4.3 
 7. Sanz, ESP4.3 
 8. Eroglu, TUR4.0 
 9. Artamonov, UKR4.0 
 10. Brzoja, CRO3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Besnik BEKTESHI
  ALB
  (188-G-93)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Bekteshi, GER3.3 
 2. Monaldi, ITA3.3 
 3. Ramljak, CRO3.3 
 4. Buovac, CRO3.0 
 5. Paliukenas, LTU3.0 
 6. Artamonov, UKR3.0 
 7. Krstanovic, CRO3.0 
 8. Junakovic, CRO2.7 
 9. Zuikov, UKR2.3 
 10. Osolnik, SLO2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Przemyslaw KARNOWSKI
  (213-C-93)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Karnowski, POL3.3 
 2. Jaiteh, FRA2.0 
 3. Gudaitis, LTU1.7 
 4. Kymantas, LTU1.3 
 5. Zagreba, UKR1.3 
 6. Olaizola, ESP1.3 
 7. Gielo, POL1.3 
 8. Trushkin, RUS1.0 
 9. Tekin, TUR1.0 
 10. Goldyrev, RUS1.0 


Div.C standings
Standings
1. San Marino.3-0
2. Wales3-0
3. Andorra1-2
4. Moldova1-2
5. Gibraltar0-4


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


Standings
Standings
Group E
1. France5-0
2. Russia4-1
3. Montenegro3-2
4. Latvia2-3
5. Sweden1-4
6. Slovenia0-5
Group F
1. Spain5-0
2. Italy4-1
3. Turkey2-3
4. Germany2-3
5. Ukraine1-4
6. Greece1-4
Group Places 13-16
1. Serbia5-0
2. Austria2-3
3. Lithuania2-3
4. Croatia1-4


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Nikola MIROTIC
  MNT
  (209-F/C-91)
  Avg: 26.8
 1. Mirotic, ESP26.8 
 2. Dubljevic, MNT22.0 
 3. Nedovic, SRB20.3 
 4. Gentile, ITA18.8 
 5. Fournier, FRA16.5 
 6. Sastre Morro, ESP16.3 
 7. Omic, SLO16.3 
 8. Aldemir, TUR15.9 
 9. Katsivelis, GRE15.4 
 10. Muric, SLO15.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Furkan ALDEMIR
  (207-F-91)
  Avg: 16.1
 1. Aldemir, TUR16.1 
 2. Mirotic, ESP9.9 
 3. Dubljevic, MNT9.3 
 4. Theis, GER8.6 
 5. Todorovic, MNT7.4 
 6. Muric, SLO7.4 
 7. Koksal, TUR7.3 
 8. Kulvietis, LTU7.1 
 9. Czerapowicz, SWE7.0 
 10. Omic, SLO6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Josep FRANCH
  (194-PG-91)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Franch, ESP4.9 
 2. Lebedintsev, UKR4.9 
 3. Span, SLO4.3 
 4. Redikas, LTU4.1 
 5. Nedovic, SRB3.9 
 6. Peciukeviciu., LTU3.7 
 7. Dukanovic, MNT3.5 
 8. Lypovyy, UKR3.4 
 9. Klepeisz, AUT3.3 
 10. Strebkov, RUS3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Evan FOURNIER
  (200-G/F-92)
  Avg: 2
 1. Fournier, FRA2.0 
 2. Nedovic, SRB1.6 
 3. Person, SWE1.5 
 4. Dubljevic, MNT1.4 
 5. Strebkov, RUS1.4 
 6. De Nicolao, ITA1.4 
 7. Polonara, ITA1.3 
 8. Sandul, UKR1.3 
 9. Ioakeimidis, GRE1.3 
 10. Andjusic, SRB1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Artem PUSTOVYI
  (216-C-92)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Pustovyi, UKR2.4 
 2. Meiers, LAT1.9 
 3. Bubalo, CRO1.8 
 4. Georgakis, GRE1.7 
 5. Gobert, FRA1.6 
 6. Aldemir, TUR1.6 
 7. Chrysikopoul., GRE1.6 
 8. Mirotic, ESP1.5 
 9. Polonara, ITA1.4 
 10. Theis, GER1.4 


Italy and Spain enter championship game in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
SEMIFINALS
France - Italy 66-77
Italy became the first finalists at U20 European Championship in Spain. The Azzurri prevailed against France in the first semifinal in Bilbao tonight. Alessandro Gentile (198-G/F-92) scored 21 points to pace the charge. The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter. Alessandro Gentile, Moraschini and Traini gave Italy a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. Baldi and Moraschini ensured a 35:27 lead for the Azzurri midway through the second quarter. Italy maintained the lead and established a 42:37 advantage at the interval. Les Bleus tipped off the second half with five points in a row to erase the deficit. The teams exchanged baskets before Andrea De Nicolao (185-G-91) made it 57:56 for Italy heading into the fourth frame. Three-pointers from Andrea De Nicolao and Alessandro Gentile boosted the margin to 7 points midway through the fourth period 65:58. Baldi, Andrea De Nicolao and Moraschini secured a 9-point lead for Italy with just over two minutes to go. France had too little time to change things and Italy rolled to the victory at the end. Achille Polonara (202-F-91) nailed 15 points and grabbed 6 boards, while Andrea De Nicolao netted 12 points in the win. Evan Fournier (200-G/F-92) responded with 19 points for France. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) had 11 points in defeat.

Spain - Russia 87-60
Spain advanced into the championship game at U18 European Championship. The hosts overcame Russia to set up the title clash against Italy. Russia found no defensive remedy against unstoppable Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91). He tallied 37 points and 8 rebounds to pilot the hosts into the Final. Spain used a 14:0 run midway through the starting quarter to take a 16:5 lead. The hosts controlled the tempo posting a 29:17 lead after ten minutes. But a barrage of three-pointers helped Russia claw their way back into the game in the second term. Korshakov levelled things up at 37. Spain answered with a 7:2 run to take a 44:39 halftime lead. Mirotic and Joan Sastre Morro (201-F-91) stretched the gap to 14-point mark late in the third period. Korshakov tried to revive the intrigue as he dragged Russia within 13 points early in the fourth period but Mirotic, Arevalo and Joan Sastre Morro quickly restored a 20-point advantage and Spain did not look back en route to the win. Joan Sastre Morro provided 23 points in the win. Pavel Antipov (203-F-91) replied with 10 points for Russia. Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) and Ruslan Tumanov netted 8 points each in the loss.

5-8 place
Germany - Montenegro 80-61
Germany outscored Montenegro in the classification round for 5th-8th place at U20 European Championship in Spain. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F/G-92) scored 17 points to lead the winners. Germany will now take on the winners of Latvia vs. Turkey clash for the fifth overall position. Germany pulled in front late in the opening quarter. They posted a 22:17 lead at the first break. Wendt and Niels Giffey (200-G/F-91) made it 32:22 midway through the second quarter. Germany maintained the lead posting a 35:27 halftime advantage. Germany stayed comfortably in front throughout the third term before Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) unloaded 5 points in a row to narrow the gap at 8-point mark 44:52 heading into the fourth quarter. But Germany quickly restored a safe 17-point lead in the fourth period and never looked back en route to the win. Daniel Theis nailed 13 points, while Niels Giffey and Danilo Barthel (206-F-91, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) contributed 12 points each in the victory. Bojan Dubljevic responded with 18 points and 10 rebounds for Montenegro. Marco Todorovic (199-F-92) had 11 points in the loss.

Latvia - Turkey 71-74
Turkey earned victory in the classification round for 5th-8th place of U20 European Championship. They stormed back from a 14-point deficit in the fourth frame to knock down Latvia. Turkey will now take on Germany for the fifth position. Latvia will face Montenegro in the clash for the seventh place at the tournament. The first period saw a close battle that ended in a 17:17 draw. Latvia opened the second quarter on a 9:1 run to surge ahead. They stayed in front piling up a 39:26 halftime advantage. The margin grew at 16-point mark midway through the third quarter. Latvia entered the fourth period up by 14 points 59:45. But Turkey recovered in the fourth quarter. They tipped it off on a 13:0 run. Meiers stopped the draught with a free throw but Turkey reacted with back-to-back treys from Huseyin Koksal (195-F-91) and grabbed a 64:60 lead. Furkan Aldemir (207-F-91) and Huseyin Koksal soon enlarged the gap to 6 points and Turkey hung on to win the game after all. Huseyin Koksal notched 25 points and 8 rebounds to lead Turkey. Furkan Aldemir added 16 points and 15 rebounds in the victory. Arturs Bricis (193-PG-92) answered with 15 points for Latvia. Mareks Mejeris (207-F-91, agency: Players Group) netted 9 points in the loss.

9-10 place
Ukraine - Sweden 69-79
Sweden finished their U20 European Championship campaign on a high note. They shot down Ukraine to clinch the 9th overall place at the tournament. Viktor Gaddefors (200-F-92) stepped up with 19 points and 9 rebounds to lead Sweden. Sweden stayed in charge throughout the opening quarter. The Scandinavian team posted a 23:20 lead at the first break. Ukraine used an 8:2 run in the second frame to pull ahead 30:27. The lead then changed hands for several times before Sweden made it 40:38 at halftime. Christopher Czerapowicz (200-SF-91), Andreas Person (190-G-91) and Viktor Gaddefors stretched the gap to 8 points early in the third quarter. Engtrom and Christopher Czerapowicz ensured a 52:40 lead for the Swedish team. They arrived at the final break leading by 10 points 63:53. Ukraine never got closer than 9 points in the fourth period and had to yield at the end. Andreas Person provided 14 points, while Christopher Czerapowicz contributed 13 points in the victory. Oleksandr Lypovyy (199-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 18 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for Ukraine. Maksym Sandul (207-C-91) netted 11 points in the loss.

11-12 place
Greece - Slovenia 67-80
Slovenia claimed the eleventh position at the U20 European Championship in Spain. They overcame Greece in the final game of the tournament for both teams. Edo Muric (202-F-91) stepped up with 20 points and 9 rebounds in the victory. Slovenia used a 10:0 run midway through the starting quarter to take a 13:5 lead. Slovenia ensured a 23:9 lead at the first break. Slovenia boosted the margin to 13 points but Spyridon Motsenigos (194-G/F-92) drained a pair of three-pointers to ignite an 8:0 run from the Hellenes as they cut the deficit to 5 points. Slovenia managed to stay in front posting a 36:28 lead at the interval. Slovenia kept Greece at distance throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final break up by 10 points 54:44. Spyridon Motsenigos dragged Greece within five points midway through the final term but it was as close as they could get. Slovenia quickly restored a safe cushion and rolled to the win at the end. Alen Omic (213-C-92) had 17 points and 19 rebounds, while Marko Pajic (204-F-92) netted 15 points in the victory. Sokratis Psaropoulos (191-PG-92, agency: FCM) replied with 24 points for Greece. Spyridon Motsenigos had 16 points in the loss.

Group G
Croatia - Lithuania 68-92
Lithuania celebrated the second win at the classification round of U20 European Championship. They prevailed against Croatia to improve at 2-3 record in Group G. Lithuania will take on Austria in the decisive game for both teams in their fight for Division A survival. Croatia fell at 1-4 record after the loss and had their hopes go dim in the survival battle. Lithuania capped the first period on a 10:3 run to take a 26:17 lead. They opened the second period with 10 points in a row to ensure a 36:17 lead. But Duje Dukan (208-F-92) drained three triples in a 19:1 run from Croatia as they cut the deficit to a single point 36:37. The Croatian team finally pulled in front and establish a 45:44 halftime advantage. Lithuania returned in front with a 10:1 run midway through the third quarter. They arrived at the final break leading by as many as 11 points 70:59. The Baltic team triggered a 12:0 rally at the start of the final quarter to clear off for good in this one. Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) netted 19 points for Lithuania. Arnas Butkevicius (199-F-92) had 17 points in the victory. Ivan Batur (203-G/F-91) and Duje Dukan responded with 11 points each for Croatia.

Serbia - Austria 101-47
Serbia drubbed Austria in the classification round of U20 European Championship. Thus the Serbian team posted the fifth straight win in the battle against relegation. Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 26 points to pace the winners. Austria fell at 2-3 record and would fight for their life against Lithuania tomorrow. Serbia posted a 19:15 lead after ten minutes of action. Serbia opened the second quarter on a 9:2 run to ensure a 28:17 lead. The margin kept on growing throughout the second quarter. The Balkan team secured a 41:22 halftime lead. Danilo Andjusic (197-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Nemanja Nedovic teamed up for 17 points in the third quarter as Serbia stretched their lead to as many as 40 points 70:30. Austria never recovered in the final period and had to surrender at the end. Danilo Andjusic netted 23 points, while Dusan Ognjenovic (216-C-91) added 12 points in the victory. Daniel Friedrich (180-G-92) answered with 17 points for Austria. Mathias Gunka (205-C/F-91) and Erik Fruhwirth (204-C/F-91) netted 8 points each in the loss.



Division B: Georgia and Estonia advanced to Division A in 2012 - by Eurobasket News
SEMIFINALS
Belgium - Estonia 61-64
Estonia shock Belgium and advanced to Division A in 2012. The Baltic side handed Belgium their first loss at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo and took their spot in the Final against Georgia tomorrow. Janar Soo (195-G/F-91) nailed a three-pointer for 64:61 victory in the most exciting game of the Semifinal Stage. It was the last game of the day and actually the most interesting. Belgium started with 5-0 run, but Estonia grabbed the lead back midway through the period. Only at the end of the frame Donkor closed the period for 18:17 and Ojomoh brought 28:24. Three times the score was tied later in the frame and Rademakers remained it at 34:34 after 20 minutes. Belgium played better in the third period and led from the beginning until the end. Deroover scored for 51:48, but Dorbek closed the quarter at 51:49. Rain Veideman (192-G-91) tied it all at 61:61 with 2 minutes remaining and Janar Soo scored a three-pointer after Ojomoh missed two free throws. Rain Veideman stepped up with 15 points for Estonia and Raap as well as Janar Soo posted 13 apiece. Dorbek followed them with 12 points for a sensational win. Pierre-Antoine Gillet (202-F-91) finished the game with 15 points and 14 rebounds, while Donkor delivered 14.

Georgia - Czech Republic 74-72
Tornike Shengelia (207-G/F-91) leads Georgia to Division A for the next season. He erupted with 33 points and 12 rebounds as Georgia won over Czech Republic 74:72 in the semifinal clash of Division B at the European Championship. Tomas Vyoral (188-PG-92) brought his team the first five points and Peterka scored for 7:2. Trailing 6:11 midway thought the first frame, Georgia exploded with 13-0 run for 19:11 lead. They added later an 9-0 run as Beqa Chikviladze (195-G-91) brought 34:22. The Czechs meanwhile bounced back with 14-0 run for 36:34. Tornike Shengelia closed the first half at 37:38 as Georgia trailed 1 point at the halftime. In the third period Georgia needed 19-17 for 56:55 advantage after thirty minutes. The end was really emotional in the court as the teams fought for the Division A spot. Peterka gave Czech Republic 72:71 lead, but Tornike Shengelia scored for the final victory. Dvalishvili nailed 14 points and Bakradze posted 9. Tomas Vyoral and Peterka notched 20 points each in defeat and Balvin had 10 points and 11 caroms.



Group 13-16 places
United Kingdom - Romania 104-50
Standard Life GB U20 Men won their sixth consecutive game at the European Championship in Sarajevo. It will be only enough to play for the 13th place against Iceland that they beat 72:70 two days ago. Great Britain destroyed Romania 104:50 tonight to send them for the classification game for 15-16 places against the Netherlands. Standard Life GB U20 Men started to play better and better at the end of the tournament. They erupted with 34-10 in the end of the first period against Romania and never looked behind. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) closed the run at 40:10 and Reilly nailed three for 48:12. Adam Thoseby (198-F/G-91) was the last to post in the second period to send the teams to the lockers for 58:21, while another 25-19 allowed the British team to taste 83:40 after thirty minutes. Saunders brought three-digit number on the board and he made the final result in the game later with a jump shot. Devon Van Oostrum stepped up with 23 points and Marcotullio notched 20. Adam Thoseby posted 17, while Saunders added 9. Tibirna delivered 17, while Nuna netted 11 for Romania.

Holland - Iceland 75-80
Iceland won the first Classification Game for 13-16 places at the Division B of the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. After 80:75 win over Netherlands, the team will face United Kingdon tomorrow for the 13th place. The Dutch team meanwhile will take on Romania for 15-16 spots. It was an offensive start and the teams showed great percentage in the first 10 minutes. Thorarinsson gave Iceland 27:22 at the end of the frame, while the Dutch team took the lead in the second frame. Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) scored a far shot from the perimeter for 35:34 and Netherlands enjoyed 37:36 at the halftime. Tomas Tomasson (190-G-91) and Eiriksson gave Iceland 41:37 as the latter took 55:50 after thirty minutes. They even increased to 10 points at the start of the fourth frame, but did not mind 5-point victory. Steinarsson paced all the winners with 21 points and Palsson had 20 points and 10 rebounds. Dimeo Van Der Horst responded with 15 points in the losing case, whilst Filipan and Jeroen van Vugt notched 12 apiece.

5-8 places
Bosnia - Bulgaria 78-65
Bosnia and Herzegovina outscored Bulgaria in the Classification game for the 5-8 places in Sarajevo to face Portugal tomorrow for the fifth place. The hosts of the Division B won over Bulgaria 78:65 after a strong start. Bulgaria meanwhile will play with Denmark for the 7-8 places at the tournament. Bosnia and Herzegovina won the opening tip 18-0 and never looked behind after. Mujic closed the first period at 28:9 and Adin Vrabac (203-F/G-94) scored for 32:12. Bulgaria managed to reduce to 10 points at the halftime as they won the second frame 17-8. Moreover Konstantin Koev (195-F-91) cut it to 50:44 and Tsonkov scored for 54:47. Bosnia and Herzegovina however deserved the win more and more than 200 fans saw the final push of the team that held the winning finish. Bulic was the last to score in the game for the final result. Miralem Halilovic (206-F-91) top-scored for the home side with 29 points and 11 rebounds. Bulic collected 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, while Lukic notched 10. Konstantin Koev responded with 16, points and Hristov had 15.

Denmark - Portugal 61-83
Portugal won the first Classification game for the 5-8 places at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. They needed 83:61 over Denmark to face Bosnia tomorrow in the game for the fifth place. Denmark meanwhile will face Bulgaria for the 7th-8th places. Portugal started strong and grabbed 8:2 after Torrie's shot. Wildner and Cardoso closed the first period 20:8. The players scored the first five shots in the second frame as the board showed 26:15 for Portugal. Alexander Bennedsen (91) and Bak reduced to 40:29 and Jonas Bergstedt (210-C-91) sent the teams to the lockers for 44:33. Portugal did not allow the opponents to reduce the game and kept 10-point deficit. Carlos Ferreirinho (200-F/G-91) nailed three at the end of the third period for 57:47. Due to 26-14 in the last quarter Portugal clinched the victory and will be ready for the 5th-place-game tomorrow. Carlos Ferreirinho top-scored for the winners with 30 points and Sico nailed 15. Jonas Bergstedt ended up with 22 points and 9 rebounds, while Bak posted 15 and Laerke scored 13.

9-12 places
Poland - Israel 100-94
Poland will face Finland at the Classification Game for the 9th-10th places at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. Poland edged Israel 100:94 tonight as the latter will play with Slovak Republic for 11th-12th places tomorrow. Although Poland scored the first 6 points in the game, they could not win the opening period. Sztarkman nailed three to bring 24:21 for Israel and Ariely sent the squads to the big break for 44:42. The second half however belonged to Poland that dominated the court. At first the Polish side won the third period 32-26 as Michal Sokolowski (196-G-92) closed the frame at 76:72. Poland also won the fourth quarter 24-22 to seal the victory. Zyskowski and Michal Sokolowski led the way with 20 points each, while Wierzbicki netted 19. Jakub Parzenski (209-F/C-91) followed them with 17 points and 10 rebounds in the winning effort. Lavie answered with 23 points, whilst Blayzer brought 20 points and 11 boards.

Finland - Slovakia 84-65
Finland limited Slovak Republic to just 65 points at the Classification Game for the 9th-10th places at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. The Scandinavian team nailed 84 to face Poland tomorrow for 9th-10th places. Slovak Republic meanwhile will play against Israel for the 11-12 places. Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) and Richard Grznar (189-PG-91) exchanged the baskets in the opening tip, while an 11-0 run allowed the Scandinavian team to take 23:10 later in the period. Sandberg opened the second frame for 25:11 and Kopio brought 40:21. Finland won the second quarter 21-14 and had 44:25 halftime advantage that at that time was enough to think about the victory. No matter how hard the opponents tried to recover they could not match the favorites. Finland added 27-20 in the third period and enjoyed 71:45 lead. Slovak Republic managed to win the last quarter to reduce to 19 points at the end of the game. Kopio paced all the winners with 29 points, while Carl Lindbom netted 14 and Heinonen scored 12. Richard Grznar answered with 25 points and 10 caroms in defeat and Kozubik notched 8.

21-22 places
Switzerland - Luxembourg 81-74
Switzerland beat Luxembourg as both finish U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. The Swiss side needed 81:74 to take the 21st spot, while Luxembourg finished last winless. It was the last game for both teams although there is a final game for another 20 teams in Division B. Switzerland and Luxembourg tried to show their best in the last game and kept the intrigue until the end. Jaunin gave the Swiss side 11:6, while Gardner Louissaint (196-F-91) scored for 18:11. Stevanovic brought 25:16 midway through the second frame and Koludrovic scored for 32:20. Rene Wolzfeld (190-F-91) however nailed two three-pointers at the end of the half for 42:33 on the board. His team did not give up and after 20-14 in the third quarter cut it to 56:53. Steffen and Wilson gave Luxembourg 57:56, but the Swiss side needed a 7-0 run in the end of the fourth quarter to seal the victory. Stevanovic paced all the winners with 17 points, while Jaunin and Koludrovic scored 14 points each. Rene Wolzfeld replied with 24 points in the losing effort and Schmit Max notched 14.



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  FINLAND   


U20: Finland limited Slovak Republic to just 65 points - by Eurobasket News
Finland U20-Slovak Republic U20 84:65

Finland limited Slovak Republic to just 65 points at the Classification Game for the 9th-10th places at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. The Scandinavian team nailed 84 to face Poland tomorrow for 9th-10th places. Slovak Republic meanwhile will play against Israel for the 11-12 places.
Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) and Richard Grznar (189-PG-91) exchanged the baskets in the opening tip, while an 11-0 run allowed the Scandinavian team to take 23:10 later in the period. Sandberg opened the second frame for 25:11 and Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) brought 40:21. Finland won the second quarter 21-14 and had 44:25 halftime advantage that at that time was enough to think about the victory. No matter how hard the opponents tried to recover they could not match the favorites. Finland added 27-20 in the third period and enjoyed 71:45 lead. Slovak Republic managed to win the last quarter to reduce to 19 points at the end of the game.
Villematti Kopio paced all the winners with 29 points, while Carl Lindbom netted 14 and Osku Heinonen (194-F/G-92) scored 12. Richard Grznar answered with 25 points and 10 caroms in defeat and Jakub Kozubik (193-G/F-91) notched 8.

Finland U20: Villematti Kopio 29, Carl Lindbom 14, Osku Heinonen 12
Slovak Republic U20: Richard Grznar 25+10 rebs, Jakub Kozubik 8



U18: Germany too good for Finland - by Eurobasket News
Finland U18 - Germany U18 56:88

Germany registered the second win at the preliminary round of U18 European Championship. They overcame Finland to improve at 2-1 record in Group B. The win however did not allow Germany to finish higher than the third position in the ladder. Finland wrapped up their preliminary round campaign winless.
Finland looked hopeful in the opening quarter. They grabbed a 17:16 lead after ten minutes. But Germany opened the second quarter on a 9:0 run to spur in front. Germany outscored their opponents 25:7 in the period to ensure a 41:24 halftime lead. Finland could not get any closer in the third quarter. Germany entered the fourth frame up by as many as 23 points 65:42. Things got just worse for the Finnish side late in the game as Germany coasted to the victory. Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) stepped up with 18 points to lead the effort. Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) added 16 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Joonas Caven (210-C/F-93) answered with 13 points for Finland. Kalle Naapi (189-G-93) netted 11 points in defeat.

Finland U18: Joonas Caven 13, Kalle Naapi 11
Germany U18: Besnik Bekteshi 18, Bogdan Radosavljevic 16+15 boards, Stephan Haukohl (200-F-93) 10, Dennis Schroeder (184-G-93) 10


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  FRANCE   


Chalon officially extends Bryant Smith - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Bryant Smith (196-G/F-77, agency: SportsTalent, college: Auburn) will stay with Chalon. The American G/SF penned a one-year contract extension today. Smith joined the club 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.

SIG Strasbourg lands Kevin Anderson - by Eurobasket News
Kevin Anderson (182-G-88, college: Hawaii) is set to start his professional career. The American point guard penned a one-year deal with the French team SIG Strasbourg. He arrives to the club from Richmond University, where he graduated few months ago. Anderson appeared 37 times for his school as a senior averaging 16.6 points, 2.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists. He helped them win Atlantic 10 Tournament and they also reached NCAA Sweet 16. Anderson was named All-Atlantic 10 All-Tournament MVP. He played at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament this year. In the 2009/10 season, Kevin Anderson registered 17.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 2.7 apg for 35 games. The point guard had almost the same digits as a sophomore. In 2010, he was named AP NCAA All-America Honorable Mention.

U18: Spain beat France for third straight win in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 - France U18 72:63

Spain clinched the top spot in preliminary round Group C of U18 European Championship. They held off France to enter the Qualifying Round with a perfect record. Daniel Diez (199-F-93) tallied 15 points and 10 rebounds to lead the winners.
France and Spain stayed close in the opening quarter. The lead changed hands for several times before Sanz, Guillermo Hernangomez (203-C-94) and Fernandez secured a 23:18 lead for Spain at the first break. Spain stretched the margin to 9 points midway through the second frame. France managed to get within five points 33:38 at halftime. Les Bleus used a 6:0 run in the third term to get within a single point 42:43 but Daniel Diez reacted with a three-pointer to keep Spain on top. Spain entered the fourth quarter up by four points 50:46. France stayed within striking distance early in the fourth period but a pair of three-pointers from Alejandro Redondo (198-F/G-93) kept Spain in charge. Alejandro Redondo, Sanz and Daniel Diez made it 68:57 for the Spaniards with just over a minute to go. France could not recover and had to yield at the end. Alejandro Redondo provided 13 points, while Guillermo Hernangomez added 11 points and 7 boards in the victory. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) came up with 14 points and 10 boards for France. Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) netted 10 points in defeat.

Spain U18: Daniel Diez 15+10 boards, Alejandro Redondo 13, Guillermo Hernangomez 11
France U18: Mouhammadou Jaiteh 14+10 boards, Hugo Invernizzi 10


U20: Italy edge France, enter Final in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Italy U20 - France U20 77:66

Italy became the first finalists at U20 European Championship in Spain. The Azzurri prevailed against France in the first semifinal in Bilbao tonight. Alessandro Gentile (198-G/F-92) scored 21 points to pace the charge.
The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter. Alessandro Gentile, Moraschini and Traini gave Italy a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. Baldi and Moraschini ensured a 35:27 lead for the Azzurri midway through the second quarter. Italy maintained the lead and established a 42:37 advantage at the interval. Les Bleus tipped off the second half with five points in a row to erase the deficit. The teams exchanged baskets before Andrea De Nicolao (185-G-91) made it 57:56 for Italy heading into the fourth frame. Three-pointers from Andrea De Nicolao and Alessandro Gentile boosted the margin to 7 points midway through the fourth period 65:58. Baldi, Andrea De Nicolao and Moraschini secured a 9-point lead for Italy with just over two minutes to go. France had too little time to change things and Italy rolled to the victory at the end. Achille Polonara (202-F-91) nailed 15 points and grabbed 6 boards, while Andrea De Nicolao netted 12 points in the win. Evan Fournier (200-G/F-92) responded with 19 points for France. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) had 11 points in defeat.

Italy U20: Alessandro Gentile 21, Achille Polonara 15, Andrea De Nicolao 12
France U20: Evan Fournier 19, Leo Westermann 11


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  GEORGIA   


U20: Shengelia leads Georgia to Division A - by Eurobasket News
Georgia U20-Czech Republic U20 74:72

Tornike Shengelia (207-G/F-91) leads Georgia to Division A for the next season. He erupted with 33 points and 12 rebounds as Georgia won over Czech Republic 74:72 in the semifinal clash of Division B at the European Championship.
Tomas Vyoral (188-PG-92) brought his team the first five points and Ondrej Peterka (202-F-91) scored for 7:2. Trailing 6:11 midway thought the first frame, Georgia exploded with 13-0 run for 19:11 lead. They added later an 9-0 run as Chikviladze brought 34:22. The Czechs meanwhile bounced back with 14-0 run for 36:34. Tornike Shengelia closed the first half at 37:38 as Georgia trailed 1 point at the halftime. In the third period Georgia needed 19-17 for 56:55 advantage after thirty minutes. The end was really emotional in the court as the teams fought for the Division A spot. Ondrej Peterka gave Czech Republic 72:71 lead, but Tornike Shengelia scored for the final victory.
Akaki Dvalishvili (206-C/F-90) nailed 14 points and Givi Bakradze (185-PG-91, agency: Gamble Sports Management) posted 9. Tomas Vyoral and Ondrej Peterka notched 20 points each in defeat and Ondrej Balvin (215-C-92) had 10 points and 11 caroms.

Georgia U20: Tornike Shengelia 33+12 rebs, Akaki Dvalishvili 14, Givi Bakradze 9
Czech Republic U20: Tomas Vyoral 20, Ondrej Peterka 20, Ondrej Balvin 10+11 rebs


U18: The hosts of the European Championship in Division B won the second game in a row - by Eurobasket News
Georgia U18-Bulgaria U18 55:67

The hosts of the U18 European Championship in Division B won the second game in a row. Bulgaria overcame Georgia 67:55 to join Hungary on top of Group A. Georgia meanwhile dropped to 0-2 record and shares the bottom with Luxembourg.
Bulgaria opened the game with 5-0 run and did not allow the opponents to taste the lead in the half. Tencho Tenchev (202-F-93) and Dimitrov scored for 17:3, while Tsirekidze closed the period at 22:13. Beka Burjanadze (201-F-94) however tied the game at 25:25 as Georgia erupted with a massive run midway through the second quarter. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) meanwhile nailed two three-pointers in the end of the half for 35:29 advantage. Georgia meanwhile started the third quarter with a 9-0 run and took 38:35 lead. Bulgaria later needed some important baskets to enter the last period with 49:44 deficit. Another 18-11 in the last frame brought them the second victory in Division B this year.
Pavlin Ivanov stepped up with 15 points for the home side, whilst Tencho Tenchev notched 14 and Aleks Simeonov (200-F-93) brought 10. Aleksandre Chochia (185-F-93) produced 14 points in defeat and Beka Burjanadze nailed 13.

Georgia U18: Aleksandre Chochia 14, Beka Burjanadze 13, Irakli Mikeladze (179-PG-94) 11
Bulgaria U18: Pavlin Ivanov 15, Tencho Tenchev 14, Aleks Simeonov 10


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  GERMANY   


The Bayer Giants Leverkusen Add Casey Robinson - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
PRO B team Bayer Giants Leverkusen have announced today that Casey Robinson (198-F-87) will play for the team this season. Robinson is a 24 year old 198cm forward from Manila, Utah that will be starting his professional basketball career in Germany. He played Alaska-Anch. (NCAA2) and in his senior year averaged 9,8ppg and 4,5rpg and shoots 36% from the three point line. 'Casey Robinson (198-F-87) is a player that goes there where it hurts. He is an allrounder that has his strength on defense. A player like that can only help us', stressed Leverkusen coach Achim Kuczmann . Awards/Achievements in his career have been All-GNAC Honorable Mention -10, GNAC Regular Season Runner-Up -11,and GNAC Tournament Finalist -11.

Source: Bayer Giants Leverkusen

U20: Germany edge Montenegro in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Germany U20 - Montenegro U20 80:61

Germany outscored Montenegro in the classification round for 5th-8th place at U20 European Championship in Spain. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F/G-92) scored 17 points to lead the winners. Germany will now take on the winners of Latvia vs. Turkey clash for the fifth overall position.
Germany pulled in front late in the opening quarter. They posted a 22:17 lead at the first break. Wendt and Niels Giffey (200-G/F-91) made it 32:22 midway through the second quarter. Germany maintained the lead posting a 35:27 halftime advantage. Germany stayed comfortably in front throughout the third term before Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) unloaded 5 points in a row to narrow the gap at 8-point mark 44:52 heading into the fourth quarter. But Germany quickly restored a safe 17-point lead in the fourth period and never looked back en route to the win. Daniel Theis (207-C-92) nailed 13 points, while Niels Giffey and Danilo Barthel (206-F-91, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) contributed 12 points each in the victory. Bojan Dubljevic responded with 18 points and 10 rebounds for Montenegro. Marco Todorovic (199-F-92) had 11 points in the loss.

Germany U20: Mathis Monninghoff 17, Daniel Theis 13, Niels Giffey 12, Danilo Barthel 12
Montenegro U20: Bojan Dubljevic 18+10 boards, Marco Todorovic 11


U18: Germany too good for Finland - by Eurobasket News
Finland U18 - Germany U18 56:88

Germany registered the second win at the preliminary round of U18 European Championship. They overcame Finland to improve at 2-1 record in Group B. The win however did not allow Germany to finish higher than the third position in the ladder. Finland wrapped up their preliminary round campaign winless.
Finland looked hopeful in the opening quarter. They grabbed a 17:16 lead after ten minutes. But Germany opened the second quarter on a 9:0 run to spur in front. Germany outscored their opponents 25:7 in the period to ensure a 41:24 halftime lead. Finland could not get any closer in the third quarter. Germany entered the fourth frame up by as many as 23 points 65:42. Things got just worse for the Finnish side late in the game as Germany coasted to the victory. Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) stepped up with 18 points to lead the effort. Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) added 16 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Joonas Caven (210-C/F-93) answered with 13 points for Finland. Kalle Naapi (189-G-93) netted 11 points in defeat.

Finland U18: Joonas Caven 13, Kalle Naapi 11
Germany U18: Besnik Bekteshi 18, Bogdan Radosavljevic 16+15 boards, Stephan Haukohl (200-F-93) 10, Dennis Schroeder (184-G-93) 10


Bjorn Schoo Remains With USC Heidelberg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

After playing 17 games for the Koeln 99ers (1.Bundesliga) in 2008-2009, Bjoern Schoo played in the German PRO A the last two seasons and was able to improve his stats from 10.6ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, Blocks-2 (1.5bpg), FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 77.1% with UBC Hannover Tigers in 2009-2010 to 13.7ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.3apg, Blocks-3 (1.6bpg), FGP: 57.1%, FT: 74.0% last season with USC Heidelberg belonging to the top big man in the league. He had 9 double double and his best game was a 25 point, 20 rebound explosion against Cuxhaven. USC Heidelberg have decided to keep Schoo on for another season giving him a contract extension today. Schoo is a 30 year old 213cm power forward/center that has played 5 seasons in the German PRO A, in the NCAA,in the NCAA2 with Northern State, Greece, France and Holland. 'I am happy that we could hold him in Heidelberg. Now we have a strong roster of German players and now its important to add more international players', stated USC Heidelberg head coach Uwe Sauer . 'I am happy abou tthe contract extension and playing another season in Heidelberg. I feel very comfortable with the club and city and am convinced we will have a successful season with the team we have', stressed Bjorn Schoo (213-F/C-81, agency: Court Side, college: Northern St.).

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  GREECE   


U20: Slovenia clinch 11th place in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U20 - Greece U20 80:67

Slovenia claimed the eleventh position at the U20 European Championship in Spain. They overcame Greece in the final game of the tournament for both teams. Edo Muric (202-F-91) stepped up with 20 points and 9 rebounds in the victory.
Slovenia used a 10:0 run midway through the starting quarter to take a 13:5 lead. Slovenia ensured a 23:9 lead at the first break. Slovenia boosted the margin to 13 points but Spyridon Motsenigos (194-G/F-92) drained a pair of three-pointers to ignite an 8:0 run from the Hellenes as they cut the deficit to 5 points. Slovenia managed to stay in front posting a 36:28 lead at the interval. Slovenia kept Greece at distance throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final break up by 10 points 54:44. Spyridon Motsenigos dragged Greece within five points midway through the final term but it was as close as they could get. Slovenia quickly restored a safe cushion and rolled to the win at the end. Alen Omic (213-C-92) had 17 points and 19 rebounds, while Marko Pajic (204-F-92) netted 15 points in the victory. Sokratis Psaropoulos (191-PG-92, agency: FCM) replied with 24 points for Greece. Spyridon Motsenigos had 16 points in the loss.

Slovenia U20: Edo Muric 20, Alen Omic 17+19 boards, Marko Pajic 15
Greece U20: Sokratis Psaropoulos 24, Spyridon Motsenigos 16


Kalin Lucas joins Olympiakos - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos have agreed on terms of contract with Kalin Lucas (185-G-89). The rookie comes from the Michigan State University. He tallied 17.0 points, 3.4 assists, 2.1 boards and 1.0 steal per game in his senior season. Kalin Lucas was named into All-Big Ten 2nd Team. Kalin Lucas earned AP NCAA All-America Honourable Mention in 2009 and 2010.


World Military Championship: Greece reach title game - by Eurobasket News
Greece - South Korea 83:67

Greece became the first finalists at World Military Championship. They knocked down South Korea to advance into title game. Nikolaos Papanikolaou (209-F-85) scored 18 points, grabbed 11 boards and issued 5 assists for the winners.
Greece stunned their Asian opponents in the first period. The Hellenes went on a massive rally to take a 24:9 lead. They dominated the second quarter. Greece arrived at the big break leading by as many as 26 points 44:18. Greece wisely kept South Korea at bay in the third quarter. They entered the fourth period up by 22 points 63:41. South Korea fought bravely but never threatened the margin in the fourth stanza. Nikos Tsoutsos (202-F-82) provided 12 points, while Thomas Nikou (185-G-79) and Serafeim Theos (204-F-84) finished with 10 points each in the victory. Sueng-Ho Ki netted 14 points for South Korea. Jung Jae-Hong (179-G-86) and Song Su-In (195-F-86) chipped in 9 points each in the loss.

Greece: Nikolaos Papanikolaou 18+11 boards, Nikos Tsoutsos 12, Thomas Nikou 10, Serafeim Theos 10
South Korea: Ki Seung-Ho (194-F-85) 14, Jung Jae-Hong 9, Song Su-In 9


U18: Slovenia edge Greece to reach Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U18 - Greece U18 66:64

Slovenia celebrated the first win at the U18 European Championship. They held off Greece in the crucial game in Group A. The victory allowed Slovenia to advance into the next round of action. Greece fell at 0-3 record and would fight against relegation in classification round. Luka Rupnik (184-PG-93) provided 14 points to lead the charge.
The teams stayed close in the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 17:17 after ten minutes of action. Greece pulled in front early in the second quarter. But Slovenia capped the period with a 6:3 run to establish a 34:33 halftime lead. Luka Rupnik gave Slovenia a 7-point lead midway through the third term. Slovenia arrived at the final intermission up by eight points 53:45. Slovenia pulled in front for a 13-point lead following a 7:0 rally early in the fourth quarter 60:47. However the Hellenes sparked the intrigue with a 12:0 run that cut the deficit to just two points with 25 seconds remaining. Rok Gominsek (204-F-93) answered with a jumper and Slovenia escaped with a narrow win at the end. Matej Rojc (198-G-93) nailed 12 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, while Rok Gominsek netted 8 points in the victory. Emmanouil Tselentakis (195-F-93) answered with 11 points and 10 boards for Greece. Dimitrios Agravanis (203-F-94) and Fotios Zoumpos (191-G-93) notched 9 points each in the loss.

Slovenia U18: Luka Rupnik 14, Matej Rojc 12, Rok Gominsek 8
Greece U18: Emmanouil Tselentakis 11+10 boards, Dimitrios Agravanis 9, Fotios Zoumpos 9


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  HOLLAND   


U20: Iceland outscored the Dutch team to face England for the 13th spot - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands U20-Iceland U20 75:80

Iceland won the first Classification Game for 13-16 places at the Division B of the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. After 80:75 win over Netherlands, the team will face United Kingdon tomorrow for the 13th place. The Dutch team meanwhile will take on Romania for 15-16 spots.
It was an offensive start and the teams showed great percentage in the first 10 minutes. Thorarinsson gave Iceland 27:22 at the end of the frame, while the Dutch team took the lead in the second frame. Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) scored a far shot from the perimeter for 35:34 and Netherlands enjoyed 37:36 at the halftime. Tomas Tomasson (190-G-91) and Eiriksson gave Iceland 41:37 as the latter took 55:50 after thirty minutes. They even increased to 10 points at the start of the fourth frame, but did not mind 5-point victory.
Aegir Steinarsson (182-G-91) paced all the winners with 21 points and Haukur Palsson (198-F-92) had 20 points and 10 rebounds. Dimeo Van Der Horst responded with 15 points in the losing case, whilst Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) and Jeroen van Vugt (192-G-91) notched 12 apiece.

Netherlands U20: Dimeo Van Der Horst 15, Ivan Filipan 12, Jeroen van Vugt 12
Iceland U20: Aegir Steinarsson 21, Haukur Palsson 20+10 rebs, Tomas Tomasson 14





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  HUNGARY   


U18: Kovacs led Hungary to the second staright win in Varna - by Eurobasket News
Luxembourg U18-Hungary U18 58:79

Hungary celebrated the second straight win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team edged Luxembourg 79:58 in Day 3 in Varna.
Luxembourg surprised with a 6-0 run Gilles Polfer (189-F-93) and scored for 9:4. Danko tied the game at 11:11, while Peter Jakab (187-G-93) closed the first period at 17:16. The latter also nailed three in the middle of the second frame to taste 28:17 lead with Hungary, but Luxembourg cut it to 36:30 at the halftime. They even stepped closer to 38:36, but Hungary won the third period 19-13 to take 55:43 after thirty minutes. With 24-15 the favorites finished the game and remained undefeated in Varna. Misek made a free throw at the very end for the final success.
Adam Kovacs (193-G/F-93) paced all the winners with 18 points, while Laszlo Polyak (190-G-93) nailed 16. Peter Jakab followed them with 10 points and Szabolcs Nagy (196-F-93) collected 5 points and 14 rebounds. Gilles Polfer replied with 20 points in defeat and Bob Melcher (182-PG-94) scored 12.

Luxembourg U18: Gilles Polfer 20, Bob Melcher 12, Alex Laurent (195-C-93) 11
Hungary U18: Adam Kovacs 18, Laszlo Polyak 16, Peter Jakab 10, Szabolcs Nagy 5+14 rebs



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  ICELAND   


U20: Iceland outscored the Dutch team to face England for the 13th spot - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands U20-Iceland U20 75:80

Iceland won the first Classification Game for 13-16 places at the Division B of the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. After 80:75 win over Netherlands, the team will face United Kingdon tomorrow for the 13th place. The Dutch team meanwhile will take on Romania for 15-16 spots.
It was an offensive start and the teams showed great percentage in the first 10 minutes. Thorarinsson gave Iceland 27:22 at the end of the frame, while the Dutch team took the lead in the second frame. Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) scored a far shot from the perimeter for 35:34 and Netherlands enjoyed 37:36 at the halftime. Tomas Tomasson (190-G-91) and Eiriksson gave Iceland 41:37 as the latter took 55:50 after thirty minutes. They even increased to 10 points at the start of the fourth frame, but did not mind 5-point victory.
Aegir Steinarsson (182-G-91) paced all the winners with 21 points and Haukur Palsson (198-F-92) had 20 points and 10 rebounds. Dimeo Van Der Horst responded with 15 points in the losing case, whilst Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) and Jeroen van Vugt (192-G-91) notched 12 apiece.

Netherlands U20: Dimeo Van Der Horst 15, Ivan Filipan 12, Jeroen van Vugt 12
Iceland U20: Aegir Steinarsson 21, Haukur Palsson 20+10 rebs, Tomas Tomasson 14





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  IRAN   


Angola prevail against Iran in Guimaraes - by Eurobasket News
Angola - Iran 74:57

Angola opened win count at the international friendly tournament in Guimaraes. They shot down Iran in the opener. Carlos Morais (190-G-85) stepped up with 17 points to lead the effort.
Angola set the tone early. They outscored Iran 20:12 in the opening quarter. Angola maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They arrived at halftime up by 11 points 35:24. The teams increased the tempo in the third quarter. Angola however managed to keep Iran at distance. The African team arrived at the final intermission up by 11 points 56:45. Angola limited Iran to 12 points in the final period and rallied to the victory at the end. Milton Barros (184-G-84) delivered 13 points, while Eduardo Mingas (200-F-79) and Jorge Tati (197-F-83) finished with 9 points each in the victory. Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83) answered with 19 points for Iran. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) chipped in 11 points in the loss.

Angola: Carlos Morais 17, Milton Barros 13, Eduardo Mingas 9, Jorge Tati 9
Iran: Samad Nikkhah 19, Hamed Afagh 11


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  IRELAND   


DCU Saints name David Donnelly new head coach - by Eurobasket News
DCU Saints have named David Donnelly (191-G/F-74, college: Moravian) new head coach. He will replace Vinny O'Keefe on the bridge. David Donnelly played for DCU Saints in 1997/2009 seasons. He was Irish League champion with the team back in 1999. David Donnelly also played for Irish National Team in 1998-1999. He retired from playing basketball in 2009. Donnelly then worked at different underage basketball levels in Ireland.


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  ISRAEL   


Ironi Ashkelon adds Jonhatan Nir for the next 2 seasons - by Netanel Dahan
Ironi Ashkelon agreed terms with Jonhatan Nir (204-F/C-86, agency: Avi Zilberman) for the next 2 seasons.

Nir should be a great addition to the blue and white team, last season he played with Maccabi Haifa but got injured and decided with the team that it is better for him to rest and left the team, Nir is a very strong and agressive player with good he grew up in Maccabi Tel Aviv and was a part of all the Israeli youth national teams and a part of the extended senior national team. Nir played during his career in: Hapoel Jeruslaem, Ramat Gan, Bnei Hasharon, Maccabi Rishon, Maccabi Givat Shmuel, Hapoel Holon and Haifa.



Danilo Pinnock returns to Israel, close to agreeing terms with Maccabi Habika. - by David Pick
Exclusive: According to sources with information, Israeli Divison1 new comer, Maccabi Habikaa agreed on terms tonight (Saturday) with the Panamanian national combo guard, Danilo Pinnock to a one year deal, significantly strengthening their back court line which is combined from American guards Dion Dowell and Paul Delaney to go along with big man, Rashaun Freeman.

The 28-year-old George Washington graduate, played last season for the Capitanes de Arecibo in Puerto Rico where he averaged 15.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.7apg, 1.7spg per game. The dazzling athlete returns to Israel after leading Netanya in 2009 to the Israeli semi-finals playoff round finishing third in the league in scoring with 19.1ppg, in a edition to recording impressive numbers 4.9rpg, 3.2apg, 2.3spg. In June he would sign with Cocodrilos de Caracas.

Pinnock is coming off an outstanding personal season where he was named the Latinbasket.com All-Liga's American Guard of the Year and All-Liga's 1st Team.

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

U20: Zyskowski and Sokolowski pull Poland over Israel - by Eurobasket News
Poland U20-Israel U20 100:94

Poland will face Finland at the Classification Game for the 9th-10th places at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. Poland edged Israel 100:94 tonight as the latter will play with Slovak Republic for 11th-12th places tomorrow.
Although Poland scored the first 6 points in the game, they could not win the opening period. Sztarkman nailed three to bring 24:21 for Israel and Ariely sent the squads to the big break for 44:42. The second half however belonged to Poland that dominated the court. At first the Polish side won the third period 32-26 as Michal Sokolowski (196-G-92) closed the frame at 76:72. Poland also won the fourth quarter 24-22 to seal the victory.
Jaroslaw Zyskowski (197-G-92) and Michal Sokolowski led the way with 20 points each, while Hubert Wierzbicki (196-F-91, agency: Promotex) netted 19. Jakub Parzenski (209-F/C-91) followed them with 17 points and 10 rebounds in the winning effort. Guy Lavie (188-PG-92) answered with 23 points, whilst Oz Blayzer (199-F-92) brought 20 points and 11 boards.

Poland U20: Jaroslaw Zyskowski 20, Michal Sokolowski 20, Hubert Wierzbicki 19, Jakub Parzenski 17+10 rebs
Israel U20: Guy Lavie 23, Oz Blayzer 20+11 rebs, Tom Havkin (202-F-91, agency: Avi Zilberman) 18


Marco Killingsworth agreed terms with Ironi Ashkelon - by Carmel Drori
Hapoel Galil/Gilboa's previous center, agreed on terms with Ironi Ashkelon.
The center who began last season playing for Maccabi Haifa, was traded after 14 games averaging 14.1ppg and 7.3rpg.
While playing up north with Galil/Gilboa, Killingsworth averaged 13.4ppg and 5.5rpg in 13 games, helping Galil/Gilboa reach the Israeli playoff finals.
In addittion to Killinsgworth interest to return to Israel the fact that he will reunite with his former coach Arik Alfasi is only a plus.

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  ITALY   


U20: Italy edge France, enter Final in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Italy U20 - France U20 77:66

Italy became the first finalists at U20 European Championship in Spain. The Azzurri prevailed against France in the first semifinal in Bilbao tonight. Alessandro Gentile (198-G/F-92) scored 21 points to pace the charge.
The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter. Alessandro Gentile, Moraschini and Traini gave Italy a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. Baldi and Moraschini ensured a 35:27 lead for the Azzurri midway through the second quarter. Italy maintained the lead and established a 42:37 advantage at the interval. Les Bleus tipped off the second half with five points in a row to erase the deficit. The teams exchanged baskets before Andrea De Nicolao (185-G-91) made it 57:56 for Italy heading into the fourth frame. Three-pointers from Andrea De Nicolao and Alessandro Gentile boosted the margin to 7 points midway through the fourth period 65:58. Baldi, Andrea De Nicolao and Moraschini secured a 9-point lead for Italy with just over two minutes to go. France had too little time to change things and Italy rolled to the victory at the end. Achille Polonara (202-F-91) nailed 15 points and grabbed 6 boards, while Andrea De Nicolao netted 12 points in the win. Evan Fournier (200-G/F-92) responded with 19 points for France. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) had 11 points in defeat.

Italy U20: Alessandro Gentile 21, Achille Polonara 15, Andrea De Nicolao 12
France U20: Evan Fournier 19, Leo Westermann 11


U18: Italy send Ukraine into relegation round - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18 - Ukraine U18 85:80

Italy posted the second win at the U18 European Championship in Poland. They toppled Ukraine to improve at 2-1 record in Group D. Amedeo Della Valle (192-G-93) scored 20 points to lead the Azzurri. Ukraine fell at 0-3 record and would fight to avoid relegation in classification round for 13th-16th place.
Ukraine had their backs against the wall entering the game. They gave a fierce battle to Italy in this one. The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter as Monaldi finally made it 21:20 for the Azzurri. Amedeo Della Valli stretched the gap to 6 points midway through the second quarter. The seesaw action continued but Falluca had the last laugh in the half as his three-pointer secured a 38:37 advantage for Italy. Vladimir Gerun (206-C-94) and Klym Artamonov (176-PG-93) put Ukraine in front early in the second half. And once again the quarter turned out to be a close battle with neither side able to run away. Amedeo Tessitori (203-C-94) put Italy up by three points 60:57 with ten minutes to go. Amedeo Della Valli and Monaldi gave the Azzurri a 64:57 lead early in the final quarter but Ukraine erased the deficit. Klym Artamonov dragged Ukraine in charge 75:73 with just over four minutes to go. They were still by one 78:77 with under two minutes to go. Amedeo Tessitori and Amedeo Della Valli gave the lead back to Italy and later Amedeo Tessitori and Monaldi sealed the victory for Italy. Amedeo Tessitori nailed 19 points, while Matteo Imbro (190-PG-94) contributed 12 points in the winning effort. Vladimir Gerun answered with game-high 29 points and 14 boards for Ukraine. Klym Artamonov netted 26 points and issued 5 assists in the loss.

Italy U18: Amedeo Della Valle 20, Amedeo Tessitori 19, Matteo Imbro 12
Ukraine U18: Vladimir Gerun 29+14 boards, Klym Artamonov 26


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  LATVIA   


U18: Latvia edge Czech Republic to stay in title race in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18 - Czech Republic U18 71:46

Latvia advanced into the Qualifying Round at U18 European Championship in Wroclaw. They outgunned Czech Republic in the decisive game for both teams in Group C. Latvia thus improved at 1-2 record and clinched the third spot, while Czech Republic fell at 0-3 record and would play in relegation round. Janis Berzins (200-F/G-93, agency: Players Group) stepped up with 12 points and 7 rebounds to lead the Baltic side.
Latvia opened the game with a strong 13:2 run. They erupted for 28 points in the period to take a 14-point lead after ten minutes. Latvia tipped off the second period on an 11:0 run to boost the margin to 25 points 39:14. Latvia ensured a comfortable 44:23 halftime lead. The third term was another sad story for Czech Republic. Latvia scored 10 points in a row at the beginning of the period to clear off. They rallied to a 56:31 lead with one quarter remaining. Latvia never looked back afterwards cruising to the first win at the tournament. Oskars Reinfelds (190-G-94) delivered 10 points for Latvia. Klavs Strazdins (191-G/F-93) and Andrejs Grazulis (203-C/F-93) added 9 points each in the victory. Tomas Kyzlink (197-F/G-93) responded with 14 points for Czech Republic. Petr Herman (204-C-94) netted 11 points in defeat.

Latvia U18: Janis Berzins 12, Oskars Reinfelds 10, Klavs Strazdins 9, Andrejs Grazulis 9+14 boards
Czech Republic U18: Tomas Kyzlink 14, Petr Herman 11


U20: Turkey shock Latvia in the fourth frame, snatch victory - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U20 - Latvia U20 74:71

Turkey earned victory in the classification round for 5th-8th place of U20 European Championship. They stormed back from a 14-point deficit in the fourth frame to knock down Latvia. Turkey will now take on Germany for the fifth position. Latvia will face Montenegro in the clash for the seventh place at the tournament.
The first period saw a close battle that ended in a 17:17 draw. Latvia opened the second quarter on a 9:1 run to surge ahead. They stayed in front piling up a 39:26 halftime advantage. The margin grew at 16-point mark midway through the third quarter. Latvia entered the fourth period up by 14 points 59:45. But Turkey recovered in the fourth quarter. They tipped it off on a 13:0 run. Meiers stopped the draught with a free throw but Turkey reacted with back-to-back treys from Huseyin Koksal (195-F-91) and grabbed a 64:60 lead. Furkan Aldemir (207-F-91) and Huseyin Koksal soon enlarged the gap to 6 points and Turkey hung on to win the game after all. Huseyin Koksal notched 25 points and 8 rebounds to lead Turkey. Furkan Aldemir added 16 points and 15 rebounds in the victory. Arturs Bricis (193-PG-92) answered with 15 points for Latvia. Mareks Mejeris (207-F-91, agency: Players Group) netted 9 points in the loss.

Turkey U20: Huseyin Koksal 25, Furkan Aldemir 16+15 boards, Sertac Sanli 11
Latvia U20: Arturs Bricis 15, Mareks Mejeris 9


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  LEBANON   


Lebanon 1-1 in the King Abdullah Tournament - by Asia-Basket Lebanon
The Lebanese National Team in his 2nd game in the King Abdullah Tournament managed to have a better game by beating Kuwait on the score of 84-74.
Lebanon whos participating in the tournament with the absence of the majority of star players who are supposed to join the team starting August 1st. (Fadi Khatib,Ali Mahmoud,Jean Abed El Nour,Daniel Faris,William Pharis,
Lebanon controlled the game from the first minutes and coach Sarkis gave the players the chance to have the opportunity to play in an international competition; Lebanon build a comfortable lead with 16 points. Mohamad Ibrahim (192-G-83) & Ghaleb Reda led the team with 16 points, Ali Haidar the new comer in the National Team is showing a good level for the 2nd consecutive game , he finished the game with 11 points. The game finished at the score of 84-74.
Lebanon who is testing Micheal Southail had the chance to see him in action only for 2 minutes in the 2 games due to the players sickness.
Lebanon had lost in the first game against Jordan on the score of 80-61.


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  LITHUANIA   


U20: Lithuania keep hopes alive with win over Croatia - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - Croatia U20 92:68

Lithuania celebrated the second win at the classification round of U20 European Championship. They prevailed against Croatia to improve at 2-3 record in Group G. Lithuania will take on Austria in the decisive game for both teams in their fight for Division A survival. Croatia fell at 1-4 record after the loss and had their hopes go dim in the survival battle.
Lithuania capped the first period on a 10:3 run to take a 26:17 lead. They opened the second period with 10 points in a row to ensure a 36:17 lead. But Duje Dukan (208-F-92) drained three triples in a 19:1 run from Croatia as they cut the deficit to a single point 36:37. The Croatian team finally pulled in front and establish a 45:44 halftime advantage. Lithuania returned in front with a 10:1 run midway through the third quarter. They arrived at the final break leading by as many as 11 points 70:59. The Baltic team triggered a 12:0 rally at the start of the final quarter to clear off for good in this one. Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) netted 19 points for Lithuania. Arnas Butkevicius (199-F-92) had 17 points in the victory. Ivan Batur (203-G/F-91) and Duje Dukan responded with 11 points each for Croatia.

Lithuania U20: Dovydas Redikas 19, Arnas Butkevicius 17, Karolis Brusokas (200-F-91) 12, Augustas Peciukevicius (191-G-91) 12
Croatia U20: Ivan Batur 11, Duje Dukan 11


U18: Lithuania nip Russia, stay perfect in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - Russia U18 82:78

Lithuania kept their record spotless at U18 European Championship. The defending champions outscored Russia to clinch top spot in Group D. Russia slipped at 1-2 record in the third position in the ladder. Paulius Semaska (183-PG-93) scored 17 points to pace the Baltic team.
Russia opened the game with nine points in a row. They stayed in charge throughout the opening quarter to record an 18:14 lead ten minutes into the game. Russia maintained the lead throughout the bigger part of the second term. But Lithuania capped the half with six points in a row to level things up at 33 after twenty minutes. The lead changed hands for numerous times throughout the third term. Finally Karpenko and Vladislav Trushkin (200-F-93) gave Russia 58:54 lead into the fourth quarter. Martynas Paliukenas (178-PG-93) triggered a 12:0 rally from Lithuania midway through the final stanza as they grabbed a 72:62 lead. Russia got back within six points but Lithuania stayed in control and raced to the victory at the end. Martynas Paliukenas provided 16 points, while Simonas Kymantas (204-C/F-93) had 12 points and 12 boards in the win. Vladislav Trushkin answered with 21 points and 13 boards for Russia. Gleb Goldyrev (200-F-93) nailed 13 points in defeat.

Lithuania U18: Paulius Semaska 17, Martynas Paliukenas 16, Simonas Kymantas 12+12 boards, Osvaldas Olisevicius (196-F-93) 12
Russia U18: Vladislav Trushkin 21+13 boards, Gleb Goldyrev 13


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  LUXEMBOURG   


U18: Kovacs led Hungary to the second staright win in Varna - by Eurobasket News
Luxembourg U18-Hungary U18 58:79

Hungary celebrated the second straight win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team edged Luxembourg 79:58 in Day 3 in Varna.
Luxembourg surprised with a 6-0 run Gilles Polfer (189-F-93) and scored for 9:4. Danko tied the game at 11:11, while Peter Jakab (187-G-93) closed the first period at 17:16. The latter also nailed three in the middle of the second frame to taste 28:17 lead with Hungary, but Luxembourg cut it to 36:30 at the halftime. They even stepped closer to 38:36, but Hungary won the third period 19-13 to take 55:43 after thirty minutes. With 24-15 the favorites finished the game and remained undefeated in Varna. Misek made a free throw at the very end for the final success.
Adam Kovacs (193-G/F-93) paced all the winners with 18 points, while Laszlo Polyak (190-G-93) nailed 16. Peter Jakab followed them with 10 points and Szabolcs Nagy (196-F-93) collected 5 points and 14 rebounds. Gilles Polfer replied with 20 points in defeat and Bob Melcher (182-PG-94) scored 12.

Luxembourg U18: Gilles Polfer 20, Bob Melcher 12, Alex Laurent (195-C-93) 11
Hungary U18: Adam Kovacs 18, Laszlo Polyak 16, Peter Jakab 10, Szabolcs Nagy 5+14 rebs



U20: Switzerland beat Luxembourg as both finish the campaign in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland U20-Luxembourg U20 81:74

Switzerland beat Luxembourg as both finish U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. The Swiss side needed 81:74 to take the 21st spot, while Luxembourg finished last winless.
It was the last game for both teams although there is a final game for another 20 teams in Division B. Switzerland and Luxembourg tried to show their best in the last game and kept the intrigue until the end. Jeremy Jaunin (170-PG-91) gave the Swiss side 11:6, while Louissaint scored for 18:11. Nikola Stevanovic (191-G-92) brought 25:16 midway through the second frame and Dario Koludrovic (194-F-92) scored for 32:20. Rene Wolzfeld (190-F-91) however nailed two three-pointers at the end of the half for 42:33 on the board. His team did not give up and after 20-14 in the third quarter cut it to 56:53. Steffen and Wilson gave Luxembourg 57:56, but the Swiss side needed a 7-0 run in the end of the fourth quarter to seal the victory.
Nikola Stevanovic paced all the winners with 17 points, while Jeremy Jaunin and Dario Koludrovic scored 14 points each. Rene Wolzfeld replied with 24 points in the losing effort and Max Schmit1 (182-PG-92) notched 14.

Switzerland U20: Nikola Stevanovic 17, Jeremy Jaunin 14, Dario Koludrovic 14
Luxembourg U20: Rene Wolzfeld 24, Max Schmit1 14, Pit Biever (187-PG-91) 12


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  MONTENEGRO   


U20: Germany edge Montenegro in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Germany U20 - Montenegro U20 80:61

Germany outscored Montenegro in the classification round for 5th-8th place at U20 European Championship in Spain. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F/G-92) scored 17 points to lead the winners. Germany will now take on the winners of Latvia vs. Turkey clash for the fifth overall position.
Germany pulled in front late in the opening quarter. They posted a 22:17 lead at the first break. Wendt and Niels Giffey (200-G/F-91) made it 32:22 midway through the second quarter. Germany maintained the lead posting a 35:27 halftime advantage. Germany stayed comfortably in front throughout the third term before Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) unloaded 5 points in a row to narrow the gap at 8-point mark 44:52 heading into the fourth quarter. But Germany quickly restored a safe 17-point lead in the fourth period and never looked back en route to the win. Daniel Theis (207-C-92) nailed 13 points, while Niels Giffey and Danilo Barthel (206-F-91, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) contributed 12 points each in the victory. Bojan Dubljevic responded with 18 points and 10 rebounds for Montenegro. Marco Todorovic (199-F-92) had 11 points in the loss.

Germany U20: Mathis Monninghoff 17, Daniel Theis 13, Niels Giffey 12, Danilo Barthel 12
Montenegro U20: Bojan Dubljevic 18+10 boards, Marco Todorovic 11


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  NBA   


T'wolves interview elder Bickerstaff - by Eurobasket News
Portland assistant Bernie Bickerstaff interviewed with the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, and former Houston coach Rick Adelman was scheduled to come in today as the team searches for a new coach, the AP reported.

Bickerstaff is 415-517 in just over 13 seasons as a head coach. He is the father of former Timberwolves assistant J.B. Bickerstaff, who agreed to take a job as an assistant in Houston earlier this month. But J.B. is highly thought of in the Timberwolves organization, and some view him as head coach material in the not-too-distant future.

To that end, one of the scenarios that Timberwolves president of basketball operations David Kahn is considering hiring Bernie Bickerstaff , who has head coaching experience in Charlotte, Denver, Washington and Seattle, to serve as a tutor for a year or two before handing things over to his son for the long haul.

The Timberwolves have also interviewed Terry Porter and Mike Woodson and could bring in Don Nelson soon as well.

The news of Adelman's interest in the position comes as somewhat of a surprise, with some league observers believing the 66-year-old preferred to land with a team that had more veteran leadership. The Timberwolves are the youngest team in the league, and their lack of a veteran leader or two to stabilize the locker room was one of the biggest reasons they finished with a league-worst 17-65 record last season

Courtesy of www.newsobserver.com

Mavericks' Terry 'very optimistic' lockout won't scuttle 2011-12 NBA season - by Eurobasket News
Jason Terry (6'2''-PG-77, college: Arizona) arrived in the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington tunnel at 6:30 p.m., beaming, naturally.

Why wouldn't he? Friday night, when he threw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Rangers-Toronto game, he was just one month and 10 days removed from becoming 'Jason Terry, NBA champion,' for the rest of his life.

'Just living in the moment,' Terry said, still smiling.

For the record, Terry's pitch was considerably better than teammate Dirk Nowitzki's last month - though Terry's toss to Ian Kinsler admittedly was high and right of the plate.

'Talking to Coach (Ron) Washington before, and after, I'm very confident that I won't be a Ranger anytime soon,' said Terry, who wore a No. 31 Rangers jersey with 'Jet' printed on the back.

Terry got an autographed bat from Josh Hamilton, an autographed baseball from Nolan Ryan and spoke briefly in the clubhouse to Michael Young and Adrian Beltre. Terry then spoke to reporters on several topics.

Terry, the Mavericks' players association representative, said he is 'very optimistic' the NBA lockout will end and there will be a 2011-2012 season.

But he didn't sound nearly as confident about avoiding a delay to the start of the season.

'Potential delay is definitely out there,' he said. 'But again, we've got to train as though there is going to be a season. And we know where we are now - we are champions.'

Terry said he understands why players such as Dwight Howard and Deron Williams have said they might play overseas. Terry said he won't consider playing elsewhere.

'My season next year has got to be with the Mavericks,' he said. 'Coming off the season we had, you go anywhere else? All the money in the world couldn't amount to being a champion and being able to defend that title.'

Contrary to Internet reports, Terry said he is not in discussions about taking part in a reality show. And, he added with a laugh, he has no interest in doing that.

Terry, the father of four girls, is busy coaching one of his daughter's AAU team, which he also sponsors. The team played in a national tournament last week and has an upcoming tournament in Las Vegas.

Like other members of the Mavericks, Terry got to keep the NBA championship trophy for 48 hours. He said owner Mark Cuban pulled into his driveway, knocked on the door and delivered the trophy. Terry said his family took countless pictures with the trophy and he slept with it next to his bed.

'I think that's when it kind of soaked in for me, what we had accomplished,' he said. 'Seeing my daughters, seeing how much it meant to my ... family, that hit home to me.'

Dirk to play for Germany: Dirk Nowitzki said he will play for Germany at the upcoming European Championship, hoping to help his nation qualify for the Olympics. Nowitzki said the break after the NBA Finals was brief, but he'd 'like to help the young German team have success.'

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com

Nick Arison, 30, to take over as CEO of Miami Heat - by Eurobasket News
Micky Arison became CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines at the age of 28. With the money he made from that and other ventures, he took over controlling interest of the Miami Heat 16 years ago.

Now he is going to put more time into the carnival business while his son Nick Arison - at the ripe old age of 30 - will take over day-to-day operations as the CEO of the Heat, the team announced Friday. And by the way, thats a good thing.

Nick has worked for the team for 15 years and full time since 2003 (after he graduated from Duke). He most recently was Vice President of Basketball Operations until this promotion.

This is something Nick has been working towards his whole life. Hes more prepared for this job than I was at his age when I became CEO of Carnival, expressed Micky Arison (in the official team release). I have the utmost confidence that Nick will continue to lead the HEAT as a model NBA franchise for many years to come.

Micky remains the guy at the head of the ownership table, but Nick will steer the ship.

What does this mean for the Heat? Nothing that should worry fans. Little really changes. Pat Riley is still calling all the basketball shots, Nick (by reputation) is not a guy who demands a say on players and personnel. So, hes not Jim Buss. (You know those off-the-wall picks the Lakers made at the end of the second round of the last NBA draft? Some of those were reportedly ordered by Buss over the objection of scouts.) For the Heat, things will continue pretty much the same as they have.

Nick is the third generation of Arisons involved with the Heat (his grandfather Ted was one of the original founders of the organization).

Courtesy of http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com

Knicks avoid luxury tax - by Eurobasket News
Give former Knicks president Donnie Walsh a pat on the back. The NBA announced yesterday its audit for the 2010-11 season is complete and, according to a person familiar with the situation, the Knicks did not pay a luxury tax for the first time since the now-expired collective bargaining agreement was reached in 1999.

According to a person debriefed on the audit, the Knicks 2010-11 payroll finished over the salary cap following the Carmelo Anthony bonanza, but finished at $67 million -- $3 million less than the luxury-tax threshold.

During the Isiah Thomas and Scott Layden years, the Knicks paid a dollar-for-dollar luxury tax of $24-30 million annually, when their payroll skied above $100 million, leading to Walsh's hiring and his massive cap-cutting. A source said the three luxury-tax victims were the Lakers, Orlando and the NBA champion Mavericks, each paying around $20 million.

The NBA released a statement on the audit yesterday, claiming basketball-related income and total player compensation each increased by 4.8 percent this past season. The players are locked out because the league is trying to reduce its cut of the BRI.

The Players Association and NBA delegates met yesterday to discuss how to raise more revenues -- their first powwow since June 30. It was not considered a negotiating session and more generic meetings on the 'system' are being planned.

The NBA press release pointed out the average player salary this past season was $5.15 million and that over the six years of the expired CBA, average salaries increased by 16 percent. The reason for the inclusion of those stats was clear. The NBA, in times of alleged losses, is trying to put a freeze on salaries in a proposed 10-year CBA -- a major sticking point.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com

NBA's basketball-related income rises - by Eurobasket News
Basketball-related income and total player compensation each increased by 4.8 percent in the NBA this past season.

The league said Friday that, with the union, it had completed the 2010-11 season audit. Players are currently locked out after the two sides failed to agree on a new collective bargaining agreement. One of the issues is what percentage of basketball-related income players should be guaranteed.

Basketball-related income increased from $3.643 billion in 2009-10 to $3.817 billion. Total player compensation increased from $2.076 billion to $2.176 billion.

The increase was 1 percent the previous year and 2.5 percent two years ago.

The average player salary this past season was $5.15 million. Over the six years of the expired CBA, the average salary increased by 16 percent.

Friday was the 22nd day of the lockout. The union has frequently questioned the league's financials, acknowledging losses but not anywhere near what the NBA has stated.

The players had offered to give up $100 million in salary costs annually in a proposal for a new five-year deal, believing that was more in line with the true losses. Commissioner David Stern called that offer 'modest.'

The league projected losses of $300 million last season after losses of several hundred million dollars in each season of the CBA, which was ratified in 2005.

The union has said the NBA projected a decline in revenues for 2009-10 but they actually rose, so the final losses should have been much less than the league said.

Courtesy of ESPN

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


World Military Championship: Brazil hold off USA to enter Final - by Eurobasket News
Brazil - USA 59:52

Brazil entered the title game at the World Military Championship. The hosts overcame the USA in the second semifinal today to set up the clash versus Greece for the title. Frederico Lima (180-PG-80) nailed 14 points to pace balanced effort from Brazil.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening period. USA eked out a 12:11 lead ten minutes into the game. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The visitors established a 29:27 halftime lead. But Brazil turned things around after the break. The home team went on a 9:2 run to spur ahead. Brazil secured a 41:34 lead with one quarter remaining. USA cut the deficit to just three points midway through the final period but Brazil stayed calm in the decisive moments of the encounter and sealed the victory at the end. Nezinho dos Santos (186-G-81) produced 13 points, while Arthur Luiz Belchior (200-G/F-82) added 10 points in the win. Matt Holland (198-F) responded with 17 points and 9 rebounds for the USA. Matt McCraw (188-G) posted 9 points in defeat.

Brazil: Frederico Lima 14, Nezinho dos Santos 13, Arthur Luiz Belchior 10
USA: Matt Holland 17, Matt McCraw 9


Purdue's Hart has foot surgery for stress fracture - by Eurobasket News
Purdue guard John Hart (6'2''-G) has had surgery on his right foot to repair a stress fracture and the recovery is expected to take 12 to 16 weeks.

Coach Matt Painter made the announcement in a release Friday.

Hart will be a junior next season and the timeline could keep him off the court when practice opens in mid-October.

Last season, the Indiana native averaged 3.8 points and shot 36.7 percent from the field in 20 games despite being hindered by foot injuries. Hart has averaged 3.0 points and 10.2 minutes in his first two seasons with the Boilermakers. Purdue opens its season Nov. 11 against Northern Illinois.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Report: Tennessee self-imposes 2-year probation, more recruiting bans for NCAA violations - by Eurobasket News
The Knoxville News Sentinel is reporting that Tennessee has self-imposed a two-year probation on its athletics department as part of its response to alleged NCAA violations.

The probation and other smaller penalties are outlined in the universitys 191-page official response to the NCAA allegations, which was filed in May and inspected by the newspaper.

The University has taken what it believes are meaningful and appropriate steps to address the problems identified in this case, the response reads, including declaring student-athletes ineligible, implementing enhancements to the compliance program, and self-imposing penalties upon the particular coaching staff members and sports programs that were designed to punish the head coach, deter similar conduct in the future, and offset any advantages that the programs may have gained.

The 12 charges against Tennessee were made by the NCAA in February after nearly two years of investigating basketball coach Bruce Pearl, football coach Lane Kiffin and their coaching staffs. Kiffin had already left Tennessee for Southern California, and Pearl was fired in March.

Both coaches were accused of recruiting violations, and Pearl also acknowledged in September lying to NCAA investigators about a cookout he hosted at his home attended by recruits. At the time of Pearls admission, Tennessee docked his salary and limited his ability to recruit.

In addition to the probation outlined in the May response to the NCAAs allegations, Tennessee imposed punishments on new basketball coach Cuonzo Martin and new football coach Derek Dooley. Neither Martin nor Dooley have been accused of wrongdoing.

Martin and his staff are not allowed to provide off-campus meals during the 2011-12 academic year. Dooley and his staffs recruiting days during the spring 2011 recruiting period were reduced from 168 to 162, and only five of the 10 football coaches will be allowed to make recruiting phone calls during the November 2011 recruiting period.

Tennessee officials and coaches and Pearl and Kiffin went before the NCAAs committee on infractions in June. The university is awaiting the NCAAs final ruling on the charges and any additional penalties the organization may impose.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

SIG Strasbourg lands Kevin Anderson - by Eurobasket News
Kevin Anderson (182-G-88, college: Hawaii) is set to start his professional career. The American point guard penned a one-year deal with the French team SIG Strasbourg. He arrives to the club from Richmond University, where he graduated few months ago. Anderson appeared 37 times for his school as a senior averaging 16.6 points, 2.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists. He helped them win Atlantic 10 Tournament and they also reached NCAA Sweet 16. Anderson was named All-Atlantic 10 All-Tournament MVP. He played at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament this year. In the 2009/10 season, Kevin Anderson registered 17.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 2.7 apg for 35 games. The point guard had almost the same digits as a sophomore. In 2010, he was named AP NCAA All-America Honorable Mention.

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  PARAGUAY   


LIBERTAD wins 2011 NATIONAL LEAGUE title - by Santiago Maciel

Libertad earned its National League Title after beating Sol de America Asuncion 3-2 in the Final Series.
After being eliminated in last year's edition Libertad came back this year with a re built team to win another title.
The presence of Bruno Zannoti in last 3 games was crucial for the win. Daniel Perez (190-G/F-84) and Daniel Hure were very important and relevant for their team.
Needles is to mention the contribution of Guillermo Arajo at the Center position.
Here we detail last game's statistics.

Sol de America: Gustavo Torres (175-G-80) 25 , Richard Ozuna 8, Ramon Sanchez 7, Jose Fabio 20 ,Javier Caceres (201-F-85) 15 Coach:Juan Pablo Feliu Aldo Acosta 5 , Victor Arza.
Libertad: Daniel Perez (190-G/F-84) 14, Federico Mellone (190-G/F-85) 6, Alejandro Peralta 6, Guillermo Araujo (204-C-82) 19 , Daniel Hure 14 Coach: Luis Orono, Bruno Zanotti 15, Diego Bareiro 8 , Carlos Vallejos 7.
Final per periods: Sol 80 (21, 19, 18, 22) - Libertad 89 (22, 24, 26, 17).



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  POLAND   


U20: Zyskowski and Sokolowski pull Poland over Israel - by Eurobasket News
Poland U20-Israel U20 100:94

Poland will face Finland at the Classification Game for the 9th-10th places at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. Poland edged Israel 100:94 tonight as the latter will play with Slovak Republic for 11th-12th places tomorrow.
Although Poland scored the first 6 points in the game, they could not win the opening period. Sztarkman nailed three to bring 24:21 for Israel and Ariely sent the squads to the big break for 44:42. The second half however belonged to Poland that dominated the court. At first the Polish side won the third period 32-26 as Michal Sokolowski (196-G-92) closed the frame at 76:72. Poland also won the fourth quarter 24-22 to seal the victory.
Jaroslaw Zyskowski (197-G-92) and Michal Sokolowski led the way with 20 points each, while Hubert Wierzbicki (196-F-91, agency: Promotex) netted 19. Jakub Parzenski (209-F/C-91) followed them with 17 points and 10 rebounds in the winning effort. Guy Lavie (188-PG-92) answered with 23 points, whilst Oz Blayzer (199-F-92) brought 20 points and 11 boards.

Poland U20: Jaroslaw Zyskowski 20, Michal Sokolowski 20, Hubert Wierzbicki 19, Jakub Parzenski 17+10 rebs
Israel U20: Guy Lavie 23, Oz Blayzer 20+11 rebs, Tom Havkin (202-F-91, agency: Avi Zilberman) 18


U18: Croatia rally past Poland to stay undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U18 - Poland U18 78:72

Croatia registered the third straight win at the U18 European Championship. They upset the hosts to clinch the top spot in Group A. Mislav Brzoja (198-F/G-94) notched 22 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge. Poland fell at 2-1 record after the loss and claimed the second place in the ladder.
It all looked the Polish way in the opening frame. The hosts fired 27 points to ensure a 7-point lead into the second quarter. But Croatia used an 8:0 run midway through the second term to surge ahead. Michalak and Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) gave the lead back to Poland at halftime 37:34. Mateusz Ponitka stretched the gap to 7 points midway through the third period 47:40. Croatia answered with a 10:1 run to pull in front. They arrived at the final break leading by two points 53:51. Antonio Boban (200-F/G-93) and Stipe Krstanovic (204-F/C-93) ensured a 6-point lead for the visitors in the fourth quarter. Mateusz Ponitka stepped up for the hosts once again as Poland denied the deficit 67:67 with just over two minutes to go. However Antonio Boban followed with consecutive three-pointers and Matej Buovac (198-G/F-93) sank two free throws as Croatia ran away with the win at the end. Stipe Krstanovic notched 15 points and 11 boards, while Matej Buovac and Antonio Boban netted 11 points apiece in the victory. Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) responded with 17 points and 11 boards for Poland. Mateusz Ponitka accounted for 18 points in the loss.

Croatia U18: Mislav Brzoja 22, Stipe Krstanovic 15+11 boards, Matej Buovac 11, Antonio Boban 11
Poland U18: Przemyslaw Karnowski 17+11 boards, Mateusz Ponitka 18


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  PORTUGAL   


U20: Portugal overcame Denmark in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U20-Portugal U20 61:83

Portugal won the first Classification game for the 5-8 places at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. They needed 83:61 over Denmark to face Bosnia tomorrow in the game for the fifth place. Denmark meanwhile will face Bulgaria for the 7th-8th places.
Portugal started strong and grabbed 8:2 after Torrie's shot. Wildner and Cardoso closed the first period 20:8. The players scored the first five shots in the second frame as the board showed 26:15 for Portugal. Bennedsen and Alexander Bak (193-F-91) reduced to 40:29 and Jonas Bergstedt (210-C-91) sent the teams to the lockers for 44:33. Portugal did not allow the opponents to reduce the game and kept 10-point deficit. Carlos Ferreirinho (200-F/G-91) nailed three at the end of the third period for 57:47. Due to 26-14 in the last quarter Portugal clinched the victory and will be ready for the 5th-place-game tomorrow.
Carlos Ferreirinho top-scored for the winners with 30 points and Henrique Sico (192-G-92) nailed 15. Jonas Bergstedt ende dup with 22 points and 9 rebounds, while Alexander Bak posted 15 and Thomas Laerke (194-G/F-91) scored 13.

Denmark U20: Jonas Bergstedt 22+9 rebs, Alexander Bak 15, Thomas Laerke 13
Portugal U20: Carlos Ferreirinho 30, Henrique Sico 15




Portugal open Guimaraes tournament with win over Romania - by Eurobasket News
Portugal - Romania 79:48

Portugal celebrated the starting win at the international friendly tournament in Guimaraes. They held off Romania in the opener. Claudio Fonseca (206-C-89) stepped up with 17 points to lead the effort.
Portugal started the game strongly. They outscored Romania 18:13 in the first ten minutes. The margin kept on growing in the second quarter. The hosts ensured a 38:21 lead at the interval. Portugal did not slow down after the big break. They held Romania to just 9 points in the third quarter to pile up a 27-point lead with one quarter remaining. Portugal did not allow the visitors any closer in the final period rallying to a comfortable win at the end. Jose Silva (194-F-89) had 15 points, while Antonio Tavares (183-G-75) netted 8 in the victory. Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency: Interperformances) answered with 17 points for Romania. Vlad Moldoveanu (205-F-88, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 12 points in the loss.

Portugal: Claudio Fonseca 17, Jose Silva 15, Antonio Tavares 8
Romania: Titus Nicoara 17, Vlad Moldoveanu 12


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


Portugal open Guimaraes tournament with win over Romania - by Eurobasket News
Portugal - Romania 79:48

Portugal celebrated the starting win at the international friendly tournament in Guimaraes. They held off Romania in the opener. Claudio Fonseca (206-C-89) stepped up with 17 points to lead the effort.
Portugal started the game strongly. They outscored Romania 18:13 in the first ten minutes. The margin kept on growing in the second quarter. The hosts ensured a 38:21 lead at the interval. Portugal did not slow down after the big break. They held Romania to just 9 points in the third quarter to pile up a 27-point lead with one quarter remaining. Portugal did not allow the visitors any closer in the final period rallying to a comfortable win at the end. Jose Silva (194-F-89) had 15 points, while Antonio Tavares (183-G-75) netted 8 in the victory. Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency: Interperformances) answered with 17 points for Romania. Vlad Moldoveanu (205-F-88, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 12 points in the loss.

Portugal: Claudio Fonseca 17, Jose Silva 15, Antonio Tavares 8
Romania: Titus Nicoara 17, Vlad Moldoveanu 12


U20: Standard Life GB won their sixth consecutive game - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain U20-Romania U20 104:50

Standard Life GB U20 Men won their sixth consecutive game at the European Championship in Sarajevo. It will be only enough to play for the 13th place against Iceland that they beat 72:70 two days ago. Great Britain destroyed Romania 104:50 tonight to send them for the classification game for 15-16 places against the Netherlands.
Standard Life GB U20 Men started to play better and better at the end of the tournament. They erupted with 34-10 in the end of the first period against Romania and never looked behind. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) closed the run at 40:10 and Reilly nailed three for 48:12. Adam Thoseby (198-F/G-91) was the last to post in the second period to send the teams to the lockers for 58:21, while another 25-19 allowed the British team to taste 83:40 after thirty minutes. William Harold Saunders (202-F-91) brought three-digit number on the board and he made the final result in the game later with a jump shot.
Devon Van Oostrum stepped up with 23 points and Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) notched 20. Adam Thoseby posted 17, while William Harold Saunders added 9. Bogdan Tibirna (210-C-91) delivered 17, while Matei Nuna (191-G-91) netted 11 for Romania.

Great Britain U20: Devon Van Oostrum 23, Alex Marcotullio 20, Adam Thoseby 17, William Harold Saunders 9
Romania U20: Bogdan Tibirna 17, Matei Nuna 11



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  RUSSIA   


U20: Spain see off brave Russia, advance into title game - by Eurobasket News
Spain U20 - Russia U20 87:60

Spain advanced into the championship game at U18 European Championship. The hosts overcame Russia to set up the title clash against Italy. Russia found no defensive remedy against unstoppable Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91). He tallied 37 points and 8 rebounds to pilot the hosts into the Final.
Spain used a 14:0 run midway through the starting quarter to take a 16:5 lead. The hosts controlled the tempo posting a 29:17 lead after ten minutes. But a barrage of three-pointers helped Russia claw their way back into the game in the second term. Korshakov levelled things up at 37. Spain answered with a 7:2 run to take a 44:39 halftime lead. Mirotic and Joan Sastre Morro (201-F-91) stretched the gap to 14-point mark late in the third period. Korshakov tried to revive the intrigue as he dragged Russia within 13 points early in the fourth period but Mirotic, Arevalo and Joan Sastre Morro quickly restored a 20-point advantage and Spain did not look back en route to the win. Joan Sastre Morro provided 23 points in the win. Pavel Antipov (203-F-91) replied with 10 points for Russia. Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) and Ruslan Tumanov (190-G-91) netted 8 points each in the loss.

Spain U20: Nikola Mirotic 37, Joan Sastre Morro 23, Josep Franch (194-PG-91) 7
Russia U20: Pavel Antipov 10, Nikita Barinov 8, Ruslan Tumanov 8


U18: Lithuania nip Russia, stay perfect in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - Russia U18 82:78

Lithuania kept their record spotless at U18 European Championship. The defending champions outscored Russia to clinch top spot in Group D. Russia slipped at 1-2 record in the third position in the ladder. Paulius Semaska (183-PG-93) scored 17 points to pace the Baltic team.
Russia opened the game with nine points in a row. They stayed in charge throughout the opening quarter to record an 18:14 lead ten minutes into the game. Russia maintained the lead throughout the bigger part of the second term. But Lithuania capped the half with six points in a row to level things up at 33 after twenty minutes. The lead changed hands for numerous times throughout the third term. Finally Karpenko and Vladislav Trushkin (200-F-93) gave Russia 58:54 lead into the fourth quarter. Martynas Paliukenas (178-PG-93) triggered a 12:0 rally from Lithuania midway through the final stanza as they grabbed a 72:62 lead. Russia got back within six points but Lithuania stayed in control and raced to the victory at the end. Martynas Paliukenas provided 16 points, while Simonas Kymantas (204-C/F-93) had 12 points and 12 boards in the win. Vladislav Trushkin answered with 21 points and 13 boards for Russia. Gleb Goldyrev (200-F-93) nailed 13 points in defeat.

Lithuania U18: Paulius Semaska 17, Martynas Paliukenas 16, Simonas Kymantas 12+12 boards, Osvaldas Olisevicius (196-F-93) 12
Russia U18: Vladislav Trushkin 21+13 boards, Gleb Goldyrev 13


Spartak SP confirm Vladimir Dragicevic and Pavel Sergeev - by Eurobasket News
Spartak Saint Petersburg officially announced the signing of Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) and Pavel Sergeev (187-G-87, agency: RIZO) for the next season.
Vladimir Dragicevic finished last season with Caja Laboral. He joined them in May averaging 4.3 points and 1.6 rebounds for 8 games in ACB. Vladimir Dragicevic started last season with Buducnost Podgorica registering 16.1 ppg and 7 rpg for 27 Adriatic league games. He helped them reach the Semifinals. In EuroCup, Dagicevic had 19 ppg and 4 rpg in four games, while in two Euroleague Qualifications games he averaged 15.5 points and 5.5 rebounds. Dragicevic was a member of Buducnost since 2007. In 2009/10 he had 10.9 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 26 games in Adriatic league. He also added 14.2 ppg and 5.6 rpg for 12 EuroChallenge appearances. Before Buducnost, Dragicevic played for Lovcen Cetinje.
Pavel Sergeev played for Enisey in the last season. The 23-year-old guard posted 9.0 points, 2.8 assists and 2.2 rebounds per appearance in PBL. Sergeev used to play for Spartak Saint Petersburg back in 2004/07 seasons.


Artur Urazmanov heads to Krasnye Krylya - by Eurobasket News
According to Sportando, Artur Urazmanov (186-G-87) will continue his career with Krasnye Krylya Samara. The Russian point guard spent last season with Dynamo Moscow. He appeared 27 times in PBL averaging 3.8 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists. Urazmanov also added 3.2 ppg and 2.2 apg for six EuroChallenge games. He joined Dynamo last summer from Radnicki Kragujevac. With the Serbian outfit Urazmanov had 3.3 ppg, 1.7 rpg and 1.6 apg for 25 games in Adriatic league. He also added 2.9 ppg and 1.3 apg in Serbian championship. In the past, Artur Urazmanov was a member of Unics Kazan, Avtodor Saratov, Lvov, Ventspils augstskola and CSKA Moscow juniors. Urazmanov was a member of the U20, U18 and U16 Russian National Team. He also played at the Dallas Global Games and Nike Summit Hoop in 2006.

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  SCOTLAND   


BULL TO TAKE GLASGOW BY STORM? - by Sandy Sutherland
Former Scotland and Scottish Rocks captain and coach Iain 'Bull' Maclean is to coach lowly Glasgow Storm in the Scottish League next season in a surprise move.
Explaining his decision to take over the coaching helm at a club who could finish only eighth of 10 in the Scottish League last season, Maclean said: 'I wanted to get back involved on a regular basis with a group of players and who knows how it will go - but I know Glasgow needs a good national league team.'
Resigning from the National team coaching post after steering Scotland to the bronze medals in the 2008 European C Tournament in Edinburgh, Maclean, a former player-coach of another West of Scotland side St Mirren, has confined himself in the last few seasons to providing inspirational leadership for the Scottish Universtities men, guiding them into second place in the recent Four Nations Tournament in Northern Ireland.


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  SERBIA   


U18: Serbia lose to Turkey, still finish on top of Group B - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Serbia U18 82:75

Turkey wrapped up their preliminary round campaign at U18 European Championship with victory. They prevailed against Serbia to improve at 2-1 record. Turkey thus clinched the second position in the ladder just behind Serbia. Tayfun Erulku (188-G/F-94) stepped up with 21 points to pace the winners in this one.
The lead changed hands for several times in the first quarter as Turkey eventually posted a 25:22 lead after ten minutes. Tayfun Erulku and Ugur Dokuyan (197-F-93) made it 31:22 early in the second quarter. Turkey opened a double-digit lead midway through the second frame but Serbia were able to cut it back to 4 points at halftime 38:42. Djordje Milosevic (198-F/G-93) and Milic finally pulled Serbia in front in the third quarter. Mitrovic capped the period with a three-point play as Serbia went into the final quarter up by two points 62:60. Serbia were still up by to 69:67 with just over three minutes remaining. But Kenan Sipahi (192-PG-95) drained two triples in a row and then Ugur Dokuyan and Tayfun Erulku sank four free throws as Turkey sneaked past Serbia at the end. Samet Geyik (206-F-93) nailed 17 points for the winners. Kenan Sipahi contributed 13 points for Turkey. Vasilije Micic (192-PG-94, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 19 points for Serbia. Djordje Milosevic notched 16 points in defeat.

Turkey U18: Tayfun Erulku 21, Samet Geyik 17, Kenan Sipahi 13
Serbia U18: Vasilije Micic 19, Djordje Milosevic 16


U20: Serbia stay undefeated in classification round - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U20 - Austria U20 101:47

Serbia drubbed Austria in the classification round of U20 European Championship. Thus the Serbian team posted the fifth straight win in the battle against relegation. Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 26 points to pace the winners. Austria fell at 2-3 record and would fight for their life against Lithuania tomorrow.
Serbia posted a 19:15 lead after ten minutes of action. Serbia opened the second quarter on a 9:2 run to ensure a 28:17 lead. The margin kept on growing throughout the second quarter. The Balkan team secured a 41:22 halftime lead. Danilo Andjusic (197-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Nemanja Nedovic teamed up for 17 points in the third quarter as Serbia stretched their lead to as many as 40 points 70:30. Austria never recovered in the final period and had to surrender at the end. Danilo Andjusic netted 23 points, while Dusan Ognjenovic (216-C-91) added 12 points in the victory. Daniel Friedrich (180-G-92) answered with 17 points for Austria. Mathias Gunka (205-C/F-91) and Erik Fruhwirth (204-C/F-91) netted 8 points each in the loss.

Serbia U20: Nemanja Nedovic 26, Danilo Andjusic 23, Dusan Ognjenovic 12
Austria U20: Daniel Friedrich 17, Mathias Gunka 8, Erik Fruhwirth 8


SC Al Kuwait hired Vladimir Bosnjak - by Zoran Popovic
Vladimir Bosnjak (agency: 011 Sports ) is going to coach in Kuwait. He is hired by team SC Al Kuwait for 2011-2012. Bosnjak worked last season in Morocco with As de Sale. He led them to Moroccan league title and Cup trophy. As de Sale won the Silver in Arab Club Championships. Bosnjak also has experience from Ivory Coast, Syria, Jordan, Quarter, Iran and Bahrain. He led Iranian, Libyan and Syrian National Teams. Bosnjak already worked in Kuwait with Al Qadsia.

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  SLOVAKIA   


Komarno hired Balint Peter as a Head Coach - by Eurobasket
Peter Balint is going to coach MBK Rieker Komarno. Balint worked last season in Czech Rep. with BK Prostejov. He led them to Czech Rep. Cup Semifinals, Czech Rep. League Finalist and Czech Rep. League Regular Season Runner-Up.

U20: Finland limited Slovak Republic to just 65 points - by Eurobasket News
Finland U20-Slovak Republic U20 84:65

Finland limited Slovak Republic to just 65 points at the Classification Game for the 9th-10th places at the U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. The Scandinavian team nailed 84 to face Poland tomorrow for 9th-10th places. Slovak Republic meanwhile will play against Israel for the 11-12 places.
Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) and Richard Grznar (189-PG-91) exchanged the baskets in the opening tip, while an 11-0 run allowed the Scandinavian team to take 23:10 later in the period. Sandberg opened the second frame for 25:11 and Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) brought 40:21. Finland won the second quarter 21-14 and had 44:25 halftime advantage that at that time was enough to think about the victory. No matter how hard the opponents tried to recover they could not match the favorites. Finland added 27-20 in the third period and enjoyed 71:45 lead. Slovak Republic managed to win the last quarter to reduce to 19 points at the end of the game.
Villematti Kopio paced all the winners with 29 points, while Carl Lindbom netted 14 and Osku Heinonen (194-F/G-92) scored 12. Richard Grznar answered with 25 points and 10 caroms in defeat and Jakub Kozubik (193-G/F-91) notched 8.

Finland U20: Villematti Kopio 29, Carl Lindbom 14, Osku Heinonen 12
Slovak Republic U20: Richard Grznar 25+10 rebs, Jakub Kozubik 8



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  SLOVENIA   


Slovenia win first warm-up game - by Zeljko Zule
Dragic brothers, Goran and Zoran, spun Slovenia to a 69-54 win over Poland in ther first warm-up game of the 2011 Eurobasket in Ptuj tonight. Goran Dragic (194-PG-86) scored 18 points and Zoran Dragic had 10 points and 6 rebounds. Slovenia played without Erazem Lorbek and Matjaz Smodis.
SLOVENIA 69 (18+18+14+19): Lapornik, Lakovic 7, Udrih 3, Nachbar 8, G.Dragic 18, Jagodnik 6, Zupan 2, Begic 4, Blazic, Ozbolt 3, Z.Dragic 10, Slokar 8.
POLAND 54 (21+12+11+10): Lapeta 10, Skibniewski 3, Snieg 2, Pamula 13, Leonczyk 3, Kulig, Wisniewski 3, Gabinski 4, Szcotzka 7, Waczyinski 7, Mokros, Hrycaniuk 2.


Zlatorog adds Skific, Maribor extends three players, Hopsi brings back Hohler - by Zeljko Zule
Zlatorog continued its roster building process by adding Croatian Jure Skific (202-F/C-88) for the upcoming season with renewal for optional additional one year. He arrives from Borik Puntamika, where he averaged 15.2 points (FG 56%, 3P 40%) and 4.6 rebounds in 31 Croatian League games last season.
Maribor has reached new agreements with three of the players that led the club to its recent success, Ilija Zolotic (207-F/C-86, agency: BeoExcell), Bojan Jovanovic (186-G-82) and Sasa Mucic (202-F-83) to stay together for one more season. Zolotic averaged 12.9 points and 6.5 rebounds in 29 Slovenian Telemach League games last season, Jovanovic averaged 9.5 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 27 games and Mucic averaged 11.5 points and 6.2 rebounds in 13 games.
Hopsi bolstered its backcourt by signing Dejan Hohler (188-G-86, agency: TSS Management), who last played for the team in 2000-10 season. He arrives from Sentjur, with whom he averaged 11.8 points, 2.5 rrebounds and 3.9 assists in 15 Slovenian Telemach League games last season.


U18: Slovenia edge Greece to reach Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U18 - Greece U18 66:64

Slovenia celebrated the first win at the U18 European Championship. They held off Greece in the crucial game in Group A. The victory allowed Slovenia to advance into the next round of action. Greece fell at 0-3 record and would fight against relegation in classification round. Luka Rupnik (184-PG-93) provided 14 points to lead the charge.
The teams stayed close in the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 17:17 after ten minutes of action. Greece pulled in front early in the second quarter. But Slovenia capped the period with a 6:3 run to establish a 34:33 halftime lead. Luka Rupnik gave Slovenia a 7-point lead midway through the third term. Slovenia arrived at the final intermission up by eight points 53:45. Slovenia pulled in front for a 13-point lead following a 7:0 rally early in the fourth quarter 60:47. However the Hellenes sparked the intrigue with a 12:0 run that cut the deficit to just two points with 25 seconds remaining. Rok Gominsek (204-F-93) answered with a jumper and Slovenia escaped with a narrow win at the end. Matej Rojc (198-G-93) nailed 12 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, while Rok Gominsek netted 8 points in the victory. Emmanouil Tselentakis (195-F-93) answered with 11 points and 10 boards for Greece. Dimitrios Agravanis (203-F-94) and Fotios Zoumpos (191-G-93) notched 9 points each in the loss.

Slovenia U18: Luka Rupnik 14, Matej Rojc 12, Rok Gominsek 8
Greece U18: Emmanouil Tselentakis 11+10 boards, Dimitrios Agravanis 9, Fotios Zoumpos 9


U20: Slovenia clinch 11th place in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U20 - Greece U20 80:67

Slovenia claimed the eleventh position at the U20 European Championship in Spain. They overcame Greece in the final game of the tournament for both teams. Edo Muric (202-F-91) stepped up with 20 points and 9 rebounds in the victory.
Slovenia used a 10:0 run midway through the starting quarter to take a 13:5 lead. Slovenia ensured a 23:9 lead at the first break. Slovenia boosted the margin to 13 points but Spyridon Motsenigos (194-G/F-92) drained a pair of three-pointers to ignite an 8:0 run from the Hellenes as they cut the deficit to 5 points. Slovenia managed to stay in front posting a 36:28 lead at the interval. Slovenia kept Greece at distance throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final break up by 10 points 54:44. Spyridon Motsenigos dragged Greece within five points midway through the final term but it was as close as they could get. Slovenia quickly restored a safe cushion and rolled to the win at the end. Alen Omic (213-C-92) had 17 points and 19 rebounds, while Marko Pajic (204-F-92) netted 15 points in the victory. Sokratis Psaropoulos (191-PG-92, agency: FCM) replied with 24 points for Greece. Spyridon Motsenigos had 16 points in the loss.

Slovenia U20: Edo Muric 20, Alen Omic 17+19 boards, Marko Pajic 15
Greece U20: Sokratis Psaropoulos 24, Spyridon Motsenigos 16


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  SOUTH KOREA   


World Military Championship: Greece reach title game - by Eurobasket News
Greece - South Korea 83:67

Greece became the first finalists at World Military Championship. They knocked down South Korea to advance into title game. Nikolaos Papanikolaou (209-F-85) scored 18 points, grabbed 11 boards and issued 5 assists for the winners.
Greece stunned their Asian opponents in the first period. The Hellenes went on a massive rally to take a 24:9 lead. They dominated the second quarter. Greece arrived at the big break leading by as many as 26 points 44:18. Greece wisely kept South Korea at bay in the third quarter. They entered the fourth period up by 22 points 63:41. South Korea fought bravely but never threatened the margin in the fourth stanza. Nikos Tsoutsos (202-F-82) provided 12 points, while Thomas Nikou (185-G-79) and Serafeim Theos (204-F-84) finished with 10 points each in the victory. Sueng-Ho Ki netted 14 points for South Korea. Jung Jae-Hong (179-G-86) and Song Su-In (195-F-86) chipped in 9 points each in the loss.

Greece: Nikolaos Papanikolaou 18+11 boards, Nikos Tsoutsos 12, Thomas Nikou 10, Serafeim Theos 10
South Korea: Ki Seung-Ho (194-F-85) 14, Jung Jae-Hong 9, Song Su-In 9


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


Gran Canaria locks Xavi Rey until 2014 - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria announced signing of Xavier Rey (209-C-87, agency: Interperformances) to a three-year contract extension. It means that the Spanish center will stay with the club until the end of 2013/14 season. Rey joined Granca last summer from Cajasol. He appeared 33 times in ACB averaging 7.8 points and 4.8 rebounds. He also added 9.5 ppg and 3.9 rpg for 13 games in EuroCup. With Cajasol in 2009/10, Xavier Rey had 3 ppg and 1.9 rpg for 30 games. In the past, he was a member of Barca, Alerta Cantabria Lobos and Cornella. Xavier Rey also played for U20 and U18 Spanish National Team. In 2007, he helped U20 Spain to win the Silver at the European Championships U20 in Nova Gorica. He had 15.5 ppg and 9.5 rpg for 8 games at this event.

U18: Spain beat France for third straight win in Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 - France U18 72:63

Spain clinched the top spot in preliminary round Group C of U18 European Championship. They held off France to enter the Qualifying Round with a perfect record. Daniel Diez (199-F-93) tallied 15 points and 10 rebounds to lead the winners.
France and Spain stayed close in the opening quarter. The lead changed hands for several times before Sanz, Guillermo Hernangomez (203-C-94) and Fernandez secured a 23:18 lead for Spain at the first break. Spain stretched the margin to 9 points midway through the second frame. France managed to get within five points 33:38 at halftime. Les Bleus used a 6:0 run in the third term to get within a single point 42:43 but Daniel Diez reacted with a three-pointer to keep Spain on top. Spain entered the fourth quarter up by four points 50:46. France stayed within striking distance early in the fourth period but a pair of three-pointers from Alejandro Redondo (198-F/G-93) kept Spain in charge. Alejandro Redondo, Sanz and Daniel Diez made it 68:57 for the Spaniards with just over a minute to go. France could not recover and had to yield at the end. Alejandro Redondo provided 13 points, while Guillermo Hernangomez added 11 points and 7 boards in the victory. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) came up with 14 points and 10 boards for France. Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) netted 10 points in defeat.

Spain U18: Daniel Diez 15+10 boards, Alejandro Redondo 13, Guillermo Hernangomez 11
France U18: Mouhammadou Jaiteh 14+10 boards, Hugo Invernizzi 10


U20: Spain see off brave Russia, advance into title game - by Eurobasket News
Spain U20 - Russia U20 87:60

Spain advanced into the championship game at U18 European Championship. The hosts overcame Russia to set up the title clash against Italy. Russia found no defensive remedy against unstoppable Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91). He tallied 37 points and 8 rebounds to pilot the hosts into the Final.
Spain used a 14:0 run midway through the starting quarter to take a 16:5 lead. The hosts controlled the tempo posting a 29:17 lead after ten minutes. But a barrage of three-pointers helped Russia claw their way back into the game in the second term. Korshakov levelled things up at 37. Spain answered with a 7:2 run to take a 44:39 halftime lead. Mirotic and Joan Sastre Morro (201-F-91) stretched the gap to 14-point mark late in the third period. Korshakov tried to revive the intrigue as he dragged Russia within 13 points early in the fourth period but Mirotic, Arevalo and Joan Sastre Morro quickly restored a 20-point advantage and Spain did not look back en route to the win. Joan Sastre Morro provided 23 points in the win. Pavel Antipov (203-F-91) replied with 10 points for Russia. Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) and Ruslan Tumanov (190-G-91) netted 8 points each in the loss.

Spain U20: Nikola Mirotic 37, Joan Sastre Morro 23, Josep Franch (194-PG-91) 7
Russia U20: Pavel Antipov 10, Nikita Barinov 8, Ruslan Tumanov 8


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


U20: Sweden top Ukraine, claim 9th position in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20 - Ukraine U20 79:69

Sweden finished their U20 European Championship campaign on a high note. They shot down Ukraine to clinch the 9th overall place at the tournament. Viktor Gaddefors (200-F-92) stepped up with 19 points and 9 rebounds to lead Sweden.
Sweden stayed in charge throughout the opening quarter. The Scandinavian team posted a 23:20 lead at the first break. Ukraine used an 8:2 run in the second frame to pull ahead 30:27. The lead then changed hands for several times before Sweden made it 40:38 at halftime. Christopher Czerapowicz (200-SF-91), Andreas Person (190-G-91) and Viktor Gaddefors stretched the gap to 8 points early in the third quarter. Engtrom and Christopher Czerapowicz ensured a 52:40 lead for the Swedish team. They arrived at the final break leading by 10 points 63:53. Ukraine never got closer than 9 points in the fourth period and had to yield at the end. Andreas Person provided 14 points, while Christopher Czerapowicz contributed 13 points in the victory. Oleksandr Lypovyy (199-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 18 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for Ukraine. Maksym Sandul (207-C-91) netted 11 points in the loss.

Sweden U20: Viktor Gaddefors 19, Andreas Person 14, Christopher Czerapowicz 13
Ukraine U20: Oleksandr Lypovyy 18, Maksym Sandul 11


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


U20: Switzerland beat Luxembourg as both finish the campaign in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland U20-Luxembourg U20 81:74

Switzerland beat Luxembourg as both finish U20 European Championship in Sarajevo. The Swiss side needed 81:74 to take the 21st spot, while Luxembourg finished last winless.
It was the last game for both teams although there is a final game for another 20 teams in Division B. Switzerland and Luxembourg tried to show their best in the last game and kept the intrigue until the end. Jeremy Jaunin (170-PG-91) gave the Swiss side 11:6, while Louissaint scored for 18:11. Nikola Stevanovic (191-G-92) brought 25:16 midway through the second frame and Dario Koludrovic (194-F-92) scored for 32:20. Rene Wolzfeld (190-F-91) however nailed two three-pointers at the end of the half for 42:33 on the board. His team did not give up and after 20-14 in the third quarter cut it to 56:53. Steffen and Wilson gave Luxembourg 57:56, but the Swiss side needed a 7-0 run in the end of the fourth quarter to seal the victory.
Nikola Stevanovic paced all the winners with 17 points, while Jeremy Jaunin and Dario Koludrovic scored 14 points each. Rene Wolzfeld replied with 24 points in the losing effort and Max Schmit1 (182-PG-92) notched 14.

Switzerland U20: Nikola Stevanovic 17, Jeremy Jaunin 14, Dario Koludrovic 14
Luxembourg U20: Rene Wolzfeld 24, Max Schmit1 14, Pit Biever (187-PG-91) 12


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


Taiwan edge Zhejiang Golden Bulls in friendly - by Eurobasket News
Taiwan NT - Zhejiang Golden Bulls 97:85

Taiwan National Team continued their preparations for the upcoming Fiba Asia Championship. They overcame Zhejiang Golden Bulls of the CBA in the first game of two-game exhibition series. Creighton Doug (195-F-85) scored 19 points to lead the effort. The teams are scheduled to meet again tonight.
Wen-Ting Tseng (202-C/F-84) delivered 18 points in the victory. Chen HsinAn (196-G/F-80) and Ho Shou-Cheng (197-F-83) added 11 points for Taiwan. Li Qingxiang answered with 19 points for Zhejiang. Cao Fei (194-F-91) accounted for 18 points in the losing effort.
Taiwan will participate at the William Jones Cup starting on August 6. Fiba Asia Championship is slated to start on September 15 in Wuhan. Taiwan got into preliminary round Group B alongside Qatar, Iran and Middle Asia Qualifier.

Taiwan: Creighton Doug 19, Wen-Ting Tseng 18, Chen HsinAn 11, Ho Shou-Cheng 11
Zhejiang Golden Bulls: Li Qingxiang 19, Cao Fei 18


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


U20: Turkey shock Latvia in the fourth frame, snatch victory - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U20 - Latvia U20 74:71

Turkey earned victory in the classification round for 5th-8th place of U20 European Championship. They stormed back from a 14-point deficit in the fourth frame to knock down Latvia. Turkey will now take on Germany for the fifth position. Latvia will face Montenegro in the clash for the seventh place at the tournament.
The first period saw a close battle that ended in a 17:17 draw. Latvia opened the second quarter on a 9:1 run to surge ahead. They stayed in front piling up a 39:26 halftime advantage. The margin grew at 16-point mark midway through the third quarter. Latvia entered the fourth period up by 14 points 59:45. But Turkey recovered in the fourth quarter. They tipped it off on a 13:0 run. Meiers stopped the draught with a free throw but Turkey reacted with back-to-back treys from Huseyin Koksal (195-F-91) and grabbed a 64:60 lead. Furkan Aldemir (207-F-91) and Huseyin Koksal soon enlarged the gap to 6 points and Turkey hung on to win the game after all. Huseyin Koksal notched 25 points and 8 rebounds to lead Turkey. Furkan Aldemir added 16 points and 15 rebounds in the victory. Arturs Bricis (193-PG-92) answered with 15 points for Latvia. Mareks Mejeris (207-F-91, agency: Players Group) netted 9 points in the loss.

Turkey U20: Huseyin Koksal 25, Furkan Aldemir 16+15 boards, Sertac Sanli 11
Latvia U20: Arturs Bricis 15, Mareks Mejeris 9


Kerem Gonlum suffers serious knee injury - by Eurobasket News
Kerem Gonlum (208-C/F-77) is out of EuroBasket 2011 in Lithuania. The Turkish center will be also forced to miss first part of the Euroleague and TBL regular season. He suffered serious knee injury (ACL) during the practice of the Turkish National Team. Bad news for them and for Anadolu Efes as well. Kerem Gonlum played 8 games at the World Championship last summer averaging 4.1 points and 4.4 rebounds. His experience under the basket was one of the crucial things for Team Turkey. Last season with Efes Pilsen, Gonlum had 12.3 ppg and 7 rpg for 31 games in TBL. He also added 9.4 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 15 Euroleague games. Gonlum was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Honorable Mention -11. He is a member of Efes (now Anadolu Efes) since 2005. Before that, Gonlum played for Ulker.

U18: Serbia lose to Turkey, still finish on top of Group B - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Serbia U18 82:75

Turkey wrapped up their preliminary round campaign at U18 European Championship with victory. They prevailed against Serbia to improve at 2-1 record. Turkey thus clinched the second position in the ladder just behind Serbia. Tayfun Erulku (188-G/F-94) stepped up with 21 points to pace the winners in this one.
The lead changed hands for several times in the first quarter as Turkey eventually posted a 25:22 lead after ten minutes. Tayfun Erulku and Ugur Dokuyan (197-F-93) made it 31:22 early in the second quarter. Turkey opened a double-digit lead midway through the second frame but Serbia were able to cut it back to 4 points at halftime 38:42. Djordje Milosevic (198-F/G-93) and Milic finally pulled Serbia in front in the third quarter. Mitrovic capped the period with a three-point play as Serbia went into the final quarter up by two points 62:60. Serbia were still up by to 69:67 with just over three minutes remaining. But Kenan Sipahi (192-PG-95) drained two triples in a row and then Ugur Dokuyan and Tayfun Erulku sank four free throws as Turkey sneaked past Serbia at the end. Samet Geyik (206-F-93) nailed 17 points for the winners. Kenan Sipahi contributed 13 points for Turkey. Vasilije Micic (192-PG-94, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 19 points for Serbia. Djordje Milosevic notched 16 points in defeat.

Turkey U18: Tayfun Erulku 21, Samet Geyik 17, Kenan Sipahi 13
Serbia U18: Vasilije Micic 19, Djordje Milosevic 16


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


Roster and Schedule - by David Edole
Raja Bell (196-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances, college: FIU), Kevin Sheppard (182-G-79, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Jacksonville), Walter Hodge (183-PG-86, college: Florida), Cuthbert Victor (196-F-83, college: Murray St.), JaJa Richards (207-C-75, college: Loyola, IL), Jason Edwin (197-G/F-81, college: Kent St.), Aaron Brown (195-G-92), Jerome Gumbs (194-F-82, college: USF), Ivan Aska (200-F-90), Mervyn Clarke (198-G/F-82, college: Oakland City), Phil Jones (208-C-85, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment, college: Charlotte), Gregory Washington (208-F-84)

Milton Barnes , Head Coach
Donald Bough , assistant Coach
Tevester Anderson , assistant Coach




2011 Caribbean Basketball Championships V.I. Schedule
Sunday June 24 6:00pm Antigua & Barbuda vs. Virgin Islands
Tuesday June 26 4:00pm Virgin Islands vs. Guyana
Wednesday June 27 8:00pm Virgin Islands vs. Jamaica



CBC REVISED SCHEDULE - by David Edole
The 2011 Caribbean Basketball Championships, hosted by The Bahamas Basketball Federation are scheduled to begin today, showcasing the Caribbeans elite men and women
basketball players, ranging from hometown stars to NBA professionals. The Mens Championship, featuring 9 teams,
is scheduled from July 23rd 29th at the Kendall Isaac's Gymnasium in Nassau, Bahamas.

This year's tournament will feature teams from Jamaica, US Virgin Islands, Antigua & Barbuda, Guyana, British Virgin Islands, Bermuda, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, the
Cayman Islands, Cuba, Trinidad & Tobago, Dominican Republic and the Bahamas. The Tournament will be held under the patronage of Mychal 'Sweet Bells' Thompson, a
former 3-time NBA Champion with the Los Angeles Lakers.

The top three teams in the Men's competition will advance to the CentroBasket Championship in 2012, which is made up of the top ten and eight countries, respectively, in the Central American and Caribbean zone. The CBC Championships is a FIBA Americas sanctioned tournament, and is the first qualifying championships for Caribbean teams to classify for the World Championships or the Olympics, whichever is held first at the completion of the latter event.

The official brackets and registered teams as follows:
Senior Men
Zone A
Jamaica
US Virgin Islands
Antigua & Barbuda
Guyana

Zone B
British Virgin Islands
Bahamas
Bermuda
St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Cayman Islands

Teams will be staying at the Breezes Resort Bahamas. Male team delegations arrived July 21st, and the womens team delegations are
scheduled to arrive on August 1st.

Please see the official CBC website for more information at www.caribbeanbasketball.com and follow the games via FIBA Live Stats on
www.fibaamericas.com.

U.S. Virgin Islands National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket
U.S. Virgin Islands National Team
#s#
Raja Bell
Bell
Kevin Sheppard
Sheppard
Walter Hodge
Hodge
Cuthbert Victor
Victor
JaJa Richards
Richards
#e#5
Raja Bell 196-F/G-76 Utah Jazz USA
Kevin Sheppard 182-G-79 Azad Iran
Walter Hodge 183-PG-86 Santurce Puerto Rico
Cuthbert Victor 196-F-83 Menorca Spain
JaJa Richards 207-C-75 Fuerza Regia Mexico
Jason Edwin 197-G/F-81 Hurriya Syria
Aaron Brown 195-G-92 Temple USA
Jerome Gumbs 194-F-82 Residence Luxembourg
Ivan Aska 200-F-90 Murray St. USA
Mervyn Clarke 198-G/F-82 Corr.Victoria Mexico
Phil Jones 208-C-85 Brussels USA
Gregory Washington 208-F-84 Hofstra USA

Milton Barnes Head Coach SMU USA
Donald Bough Assistant Voorhees USA
Tevester Anderson Assistant Jackson St. USA


MEDICS NEW CHAMPS of Governmental Leagus - by David Edole
ST. THOMAS-- After three years on top of the mountain, Education now have to look up as Medics took home the 2011 Governmental and
Industrial CoEd Basketball League. Steve Gardner (170-G-85, college: J.and Wales, FL) shook off a horrible performance in game two and scored 29 points to lead Medics
to an, 62-56, overtime win in front of an raucous crowd. Medics won the first and last game in the best of three series.
Medics looked like they would make quick work of Eduction when they ran out to an early 22-10 lead. Medics staunch supporters were quickly
quieted when Education unleashed a three point barrage. Shamara Holliday and Rasheem Richards (183-G-80, college: York, NB) knocked down two three pointers in the
3rd frame as Education went out in front, 43-38. On the first possession in the fourth Gardner drilled his sixth three-pointer as the Medics went on a 17-8 run. Fitztroy Dunrod, who was held to two points up to that point, erupted for nine points in the fourth as Medics regain the lead, 55-51, with 45 ticks left on the clock.
Medics supporters had a premature celebration and Education was not about to give up. The Key to Success was to go inside to the
tallest player on the court. Ronnie Cummings used his 6-foot-6 frame and superior ball handling to make two tough baskets to get the game
into overtime.
In overtime, Medics scored first on a Gardners free throw and Dunrod added two lay ups that put the game out of reach.
Gardner had a game high 29 points and Dunrod pitched in with 15 points. Richards led Education with 18 points, Cummings added 13 points and
tired looking Jamari Maduro chipped in with 11.

Medics: Gardner 29, Dunrod 16, Mills 6, Holland 3, Petersen 3, Lewis 3, Clarke 3
Education: Richards 18, Cummings 13, Maduro 11, Holliday 6, Jackson 6, Donadelle 2

Medics: 12 13 13 17 7 - 62
Education: 6 16 21 12 1 - 56

Zero Tolerance All Stars off to Orlando - by David Edole
After weeks of anticipation, AAU has finally released the 2011 Super Showcase Silver Division Schedule. Zero Tolerance Basketball
organization learned that the Stars have been placed in Pool BB with some heavy hitting teams. Ohio Hoopsters boast junior 6-foot-8 stud
Zach Garber along with guards Andre Yates (5-11), Joe Thomasson (6-3), Tyler White (6-0) and Jonathon Kloepfer (6-5) that make up the
starting five. New Jersey Roadrunners, a team that the recent NBA #1 draft choice Kyrie Irving called home, is the second team on the
schedule. Team Raptors Elite from South Carolina has a coach that may be familiar to most Virgin Islanders as 7-0 center Charles Claxton
calls the shots. Claxton, a native of St. Thomas, was selected by the Phoenix Suns and played half a season with the Boston Celtics. The 40-year old father of two felt it was time to get into coaching when boys Nicholas (12) and Chase (10) started gaining interest in the sport.

Zero Tolerance All Stars: Sekayi Petersen, Xavier Richards, Dekwani Norford, DeVontee Anthony, Jecoy Julius, Dominick Purpura, Elisha
Arnold, Dornell Weaver (94), Agyei Gregory (94), JMoi Smith, Brandon Wynter and Kareem Harris.

Pool BB SCHEDULE
Sunday 9:20 am vs. Ohio Hoopsters @Orlando Sports Center
Sunday 5:20 pm vs. NJ Roadrunners @Orlando Sports Center
Monday 9:20 am vs. Team Raptors Elite @HP Fieldhouse

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


U20: Sweden top Ukraine, claim 9th position in Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20 - Ukraine U20 79:69

Sweden finished their U20 European Championship campaign on a high note. They shot down Ukraine to clinch the 9th overall place at the tournament. Viktor Gaddefors (200-F-92) stepped up with 19 points and 9 rebounds to lead Sweden.
Sweden stayed in charge throughout the opening quarter. The Scandinavian team posted a 23:20 lead at the first break. Ukraine used an 8:2 run in the second frame to pull ahead 30:27. The lead then changed hands for several times before Sweden made it 40:38 at halftime. Christopher Czerapowicz (200-SF-91), Andreas Person (190-G-91) and Viktor Gaddefors stretched the gap to 8 points early in the third quarter. Engtrom and Christopher Czerapowicz ensured a 52:40 lead for the Swedish team. They arrived at the final break leading by 10 points 63:53. Ukraine never got closer than 9 points in the fourth period and had to yield at the end. Andreas Person provided 14 points, while Christopher Czerapowicz contributed 13 points in the victory. Oleksandr Lypovyy (199-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 18 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for Ukraine. Maksym Sandul (207-C-91) netted 11 points in the loss.

Sweden U20: Viktor Gaddefors 19, Andreas Person 14, Christopher Czerapowicz 13
Ukraine U20: Oleksandr Lypovyy 18, Maksym Sandul 11


BC Donetsk agree on terms of contract with DeMarcus Nelson - by Eurobasket News
DeMarcus Nelson (193-G-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Duke) will continue his career in Ukraine. He has reportedly agreed on terms of contract with BC Donetsk. The 25-year-old guard played in France last season. DeMarcus Nelson averaged 9.2 points, 3.3 boards and 1.5 assists per game in Euroleague. In French ProA the guard notched 10.8 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.4 assists per appearance. DeMarcus Nelson had stints with Air Avellino, Austin Toros, KK Zagreb, Golden State Warriors and Bakersfield Jam before moving to France in 2010.


U18: Italy send Ukraine into relegation round - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18 - Ukraine U18 85:80

Italy posted the second win at the U18 European Championship in Poland. They toppled Ukraine to improve at 2-1 record in Group D. Amedeo Della Valle (192-G-93) scored 20 points to lead the Azzurri. Ukraine fell at 0-3 record and would fight to avoid relegation in classification round for 13th-16th place.
Ukraine had their backs against the wall entering the game. They gave a fierce battle to Italy in this one. The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter as Monaldi finally made it 21:20 for the Azzurri. Amedeo Della Valli stretched the gap to 6 points midway through the second quarter. The seesaw action continued but Falluca had the last laugh in the half as his three-pointer secured a 38:37 advantage for Italy. Vladimir Gerun (206-C-94) and Klym Artamonov (176-PG-93) put Ukraine in front early in the second half. And once again the quarter turned out to be a close battle with neither side able to run away. Amedeo Tessitori (203-C-94) put Italy up by three points 60:57 with ten minutes to go. Amedeo Della Valli and Monaldi gave the Azzurri a 64:57 lead early in the final quarter but Ukraine erased the deficit. Klym Artamonov dragged Ukraine in charge 75:73 with just over four minutes to go. They were still by one 78:77 with under two minutes to go. Amedeo Tessitori and Amedeo Della Valli gave the lead back to Italy and later Amedeo Tessitori and Monaldi sealed the victory for Italy. Amedeo Tessitori nailed 19 points, while Matteo Imbro (190-PG-94) contributed 12 points in the winning effort. Vladimir Gerun answered with game-high 29 points and 14 boards for Ukraine. Klym Artamonov netted 26 points and issued 5 assists in the loss.

Italy U18: Amedeo Della Valle 20, Amedeo Tessitori 19, Matteo Imbro 12
Ukraine U18: Vladimir Gerun 29+14 boards, Klym Artamonov 26


BC Donetsk add Vitaly Kovalenko - by Eurobasket News
BC Donetsk ensured the services of Vitaly Kovalenko (201-F-84) for the next season. The 27-year-old forward spent the last season in BC Kyiv. He tallied 13.5 points, 5.5 boards and 1.5 assists per game in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round. In Superleague Vitaly Kovalenko posted 10.6 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.2 assists per appearance. Vitaly Kovalenko participated at Slam Dunk Contest during 2011 Superleague All-Star Game. Kovalenko played for Znicz Jaroslaw, Budivelnyk, Cherkasy and Hoverla before joining BC Kyiv.


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


U18: Denmark improved to 2-0 record in Group B - by Eurobasket News
England U18-Denmark U18 42:60

Denmark improved to 2-0 record in Group B of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Danish side rolled over England 60:42 in Day 3 dominating the majority of the game.
Sentance and Moller exchanged the early baskets in the opening tip, while Denmark went on a 9-0 run as Esben Reinholt (196-G-93) nailed three for 11:2. Gertz made a free throw at the end of the quarter for 16:7. England managed to win the second period 10-7 as the board showed 23:17 at the halftime. Spencer and Crook reduced to 4 points, while a 7-0 run allowed the Danish team to take 41:30 after thrity minutes. They added 19-12 in the last quarter to win another game in Varna.
Esben Esben Reinholt led Denmark with 16 points and six rebounds. Jamie Batish led England with 12 points, seven rebounds and three assists, while Zak Wells (93) added ten boards to his eight points. Jordan Culley finished with seven points for an England team who again shot poorly from three-point range - hitting only 11 percent from downtown.

England U18: Jamie Batish 12, Zak Wells 8
Denmark U18: Esben Reinholt 16, Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) 9


Dan's The Man For Lions - by Paul Nilsen
The Prestige Homes MK Lions have added 6'9' Power Forward, Daniel Northern (206-F/C-85, college: Tennessee Tech) to their roster



Coach Michael New is excited about his new addition, 'I think that Daniel is tailor made to do well in this league. He is very athletic, he rebounds extremely well, he has been the defensive anchor on every team that he has played on and he can score without having to run plays for him. He is every coach's dream. He is motivated by rebounding which is rare these days and he changes ends of the floor effortlessly. I am very excited to have Daniel and I am looking for big things from him. '



A Graduate of Tennessee Tech, the 25 year old was a key figure at both ends, he averaged 13 points per game and his athleticism saw him grab nearly 10 rebounds per outing and a very healthy 3 blocks per game. Following graduation, in 2008, Northern's first pro experience was in LEB Gold in Spain where he did well averaging 8 points and 6 rebounds per outing.



Lions Chief Executive, Vince Macaulay said, 'We are very focussed on what we need for our team to be successful this season, Daniel brings a strong defensive presence and hits the glass with a vengeance, that will excite our fans and help us improve from where we were last year.'



Most recently Northern was in the EBA in Spain after stints in Uruguay and Finland and is looking forward to his first taste of the BBL.



The Lion's have a couple of International Friendlies against US College teams, 18 August sees them face the Stony Brook University from New York and Saturday 27 August see's the visit of St Joe's University who have former Hemel Royals favourite, John Wassenbergh in the Coaching ranks. Tickets for these are available on the website. The Lions BBL games will start in October with a full schedule of games also on the website.

U20: Standard Life GB won their sixth consecutive game - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain U20-Romania U20 104:50

Standard Life GB U20 Men won their sixth consecutive game at the European Championship in Sarajevo. It will be only enough to play for the 13th place against Iceland that they beat 72:70 two days ago. Great Britain destroyed Romania 104:50 tonight to send them for the classification game for 15-16 places against the Netherlands.
Standard Life GB U20 Men started to play better and better at the end of the tournament. They erupted with 34-10 in the end of the first period against Romania and never looked behind. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) closed the run at 40:10 and Reilly nailed three for 48:12. Adam Thoseby (198-F/G-91) was the last to post in the second period to send the teams to the lockers for 58:21, while another 25-19 allowed the British team to taste 83:40 after thirty minutes. William Harold Saunders (202-F-91) brought three-digit number on the board and he made the final result in the game later with a jump shot.
Devon Van Oostrum stepped up with 23 points and Alex Marcotullio (190-G-91) notched 20. Adam Thoseby posted 17, while William Harold Saunders added 9. Bogdan Tibirna (210-C-91) delivered 17, while Matei Nuna (191-G-91) netted 11 for Romania.

Great Britain U20: Devon Van Oostrum 23, Alex Marcotullio 20, Adam Thoseby 17, William Harold Saunders 9
Romania U20: Bogdan Tibirna 17, Matei Nuna 11



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


Larranaga took the lead 1-0 over Nacional - by Hector Lopez
Larranaga defeated Nacional 84-65 to take a 1-0 lead in the best of three final games for a second promotion from the Metro league to the Uruguayan League.
Both foreingn players, Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) and Terrence Shelman (198-F-78) where ejected from the game after six minutes of the third quarter after an incident among themselves. At that moment Boston had 6 points and 10 rebounds, while Shelman had 6 points and 5 rebounds. The main scorers for Larranaga were Federico Martinez (203-F/C-74) with 24 and 5 rebounds and Santiago Moglia (196-F-89) with 21 points. For Nacional Emiliano Giano (180-PG-89) netted 16 points. The second game will be played on Monday 25th.



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Women News

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  ARGENTINA - Women  


U19 Japan grabs the first win in Chile - by Eurobasket News
U19 JAPAN - U19 ARGENTINA 90-71

Both teams failed in Day One of the U19 World Championship in Chile. Japan grabbed the first win at this event beating Argentina 90-71 on Friday evening. Aya Watanabe (170-G-92) was a key player in victory with 33 points and 11 rebounds. She reached valuation 38 and was the MVP of this meeting. Sanae Motokawa (175-F-92) followed her with 18 points and 6 boards, while Aoi Katsura (170-PG-92) added 10 points, plus 5 boards. In Argentina, Natasha Spiatta (177-F-92) top-scored with 12 points. Diana Cabrera (187-C-93) had 11 points and 11 rebounds, while Melisa Gretter (167-PG-93) added 10 points and 7 boards. Their team dropped to 0-2. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Japan will meet Russia. Argentina will play against USA.

Japan: Aya Watanabe 33+11 boards, Sanae Motokawa 18+6 boards, Aoi Katsura 10+5 boards
Argentina: Natasha Spiatta 12, Diana Cabrera 11+11 boards, Melisa Gretter 10+7 boards

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  BRAZIL - Women  


U19 Brazil stays unbeaten in Chile - by Eurobasket News
U19 SLOVENIA - U19 BRAZIL 50-67

Brazil celebrated second straight win in Chile. After victory against Spain in Day One, Brazil handed 67-50 loss to Slovenia for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group D. Thanks to this win, Brazil already booked a ticket for the next stage. On the other side, Slovenia dropped to 0-2 but still has some chances to reach the Qualifying Round. Damiris Dantas (192-C-92) shined for Brazil with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Isabela Ramona (178-F-94) had 11 points and 7 rebs, while Tassia Carcavalli (178-F-92) added 10 points. In Slovenia, Tjasa Gortnar (187-C-92) collected 17 points and 6 boards. Eva Rupnik (177-F-92) (5 rebs) and Nina Gabrovsek (168-PG-94) had 12 pts each. Quarters: 17-19, 6-13, 12-22, 15-13. In Day Three, Brazil will meet Taiwan. Slovenia will take on Spain.

Slovenia: Tjasa Gortnar 17+6 boards, Eva Rupnik 12+5 boards, Nina Gabrovsek 12
Brazil: Damiris Dantas 21+9 boards, Isabela Ramona 11+7 boards, Tassia Carcavalli 10

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  CANADA - Women  


U19 Canada jumps to 2-0 in Chile - by Eurobasket News
U19 EGYPT - U19 CANADA 54-99

Canada demonstrated another great performance in Chile. This time they outplayed Egypt for 2-0 record in Preliminary Group B. On the other side, Egypt dropped to 0-2. With this victory, Canada already secured a ticket for the next stage. Nirra Fields (178-PG-93) shined for Canada with 19 points. Diana Lee (170-G-92) and Korissa Williams (177-G-92) followed her with 12 points each. In the loosing squad, Hagar Amer (184-F-93) replied with 14 points and 5 boards. Reem Osama (170-PG-93) scored 12 and Sara Massoud (174-G-92) added 10 points, plus 7 boards. Quarters: 5-28, 14-25, 19-22, 16-24. In Game Three, Canada will meet Italy. Egypt will play against China and it will be a do-or-die game for both teams.

Egypt: Hagar Amer 14+5 boards, Reem Osama 12, Sara Massoud 10+7 boards
Canada: Nirra Fields 19, Diana Lee 12, Korissa Williams 12

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  CHINA - Women  


U19 Italy hands 70-64 loss to U19 China - by Eurobasket News
U19 CHINA - U19 ITALY 64-70

Second straight win for Italy in Chile. They handed 70-64 loss to China improving to 2-0 record in Preliminary Group A. On the other side, China stays winless. Debora Carangelo (167-PG-92) top-scored for Italy with 19 points and Giulia Maffenini (180-F-92) added 17 points, plus 5 boards. Francesca Dotto (189-C-93) followed them with 14 pts. In China, Sun had 18 points and 9 rebounds. Yu Dong (195-C-93) had 13 pts and 5 rebs, while Yang Xi (184-G-94) stopped to 11 points. Quarters: 9-14, 21-18, 18-16, 16-22. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Italy will meet Canada and the winner will end as No.1 of Group A. China will play against Egypt and it will be a do-or-die game for both teams.

China: Sun 18+9 boards, Yu Dong 13, Yang Xi 11
Italy: Debora Carangelo 19, Giulia Maffenini 17+5 boards, Francesca Dotto 14

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  EGYPT - Women  


U19 Canada jumps to 2-0 in Chile - by Eurobasket News
U19 EGYPT - U19 CANADA 54-99

Canada demonstrated another great performance in Chile. This time they outplayed Egypt for 2-0 record in Preliminary Group B. On the other side, Egypt dropped to 0-2. With this victory, Canada already secured a ticket for the next stage. Nirra Fields (178-PG-93) shined for Canada with 19 points. Diana Lee (170-G-92) and Korissa Williams (177-G-92) followed her with 12 points each. In the loosing squad, Hagar Amer (184-F-93) replied with 14 points and 5 boards. Reem Osama (170-PG-93) scored 12 and Sara Massoud (174-G-92) added 10 points, plus 7 boards. Quarters: 5-28, 14-25, 19-22, 16-24. In Game Three, Canada will meet Italy. Egypt will play against China and it will be a do-or-die game for both teams.

Egypt: Hagar Amer 14+5 boards, Reem Osama 12, Sara Massoud 10+7 boards
Canada: Nirra Fields 19, Diana Lee 12, Korissa Williams 12

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  EL SALVADOR - Women  


Standings
Liga Superior Standings
 1. INDES 0-0 
 2. Itexsal 0-0 
 3. Santa Tecla 0-0 
 4. Somos Unicas 0-0 
 5. Survivor 0-0 
 6. UTEC 0-0 


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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE - Women  


Eurobasket Summer League (Atlanta) Day 3 Press Release: (Game 3) - by Darryl Reshaw
Eurobasket Summer League (Atlanta) Day 3 Press Release: (Game 3)

(Atlanta) July 22, 2011

The final day of the ESL Women's event featured some outstanding play and talent.
There were some athletes at the Suwanee Sports Center that deserve to play professionally overseas this coming season.
The collection of talent at this years ESL Women's event may have been the best group since Eurobasket has created this particular group.

In the first game of the day Greece defeated England 76-73 in a very exciting contest that went down to the final possession.
Both teams played hard and displayed some outstanding performances.

Greece was lead by the hot shooting Alex Winchell (5'6''-G-89) who made seven (7) three point shots in the contest and showed she was the most dangerous shooter at the event.
Her range was WNBA like and as a point guard she has great ball handling skills and can run a team on a professional level.
She is an excellent prospect for European teams looking for a PG who can shoot the lights out.
Sheena Brown (5'8''-G, agency: Gamble Sports Management) scored 14 points and capped out a fine ESL Tourney as she is an excellent combo guard that can really score by shooting or driving to the basket.
Taneskei Richardson (6'0''-F, agency: Gamble Sports Management) chipped in 14 points and 5 rebounds as she demonstrated she is a fine inside player with upside potential.
Rachel Oswald (6'0''-F) the smooth scoring forward had another quality game and poured in 13 points and 6 rebounds.
Rachel has a beautiful mid range game featuring and turn around jump shot and a nice step back.
She has a nice all around game and can really play on both ends and has great size.
England was led by Lauren Falohun (5'9''-G-88, agency: Gamble Sports Management) with 21 points and 7 rebounds. She also had an outstanding tournament displaying, athleticism, a great work ethic and fine all around guard play. She is an excellent defensive player with lots of energy and she can score , rebound and pass.
Chimere Jordan (5'8''-G-89) almost single handedly brought the England team back as she scored 17 points in the second half.
She was probably the sleeper in the ESL Women's event as far as hidden talent.
She is an explosive scorer with skills to create and has a nice jump shot.
She is a nice athlete and would be a great pick up for European teams looking for an outstanding player.
Last but not least was Porche Grant (6'2''-C-88) the rebounding machine she pulled 16 rebounds in this contest and scored 9 points.
She is a athletic work horse and would help any team overseas looking for a great inside player with upside potential.


Greece: 76
Chakia Cole: 0pts,
Rachel Oswald (6'0''-F): 13pts, 6rbs
Sheena Brown (5'8''-G, agency: Gamble Sports Management): 14pts, 5rbs, 7ast
Leslie Forest: 6pts, 4rbs
Taneskei Richardson (6'0''-F, agency: Gamble Sports Management) 14pts, 7rbs
Alex Winchell (5'6''-G-89): 23pts, 6ast
Shanrika Hardeman: 6pts, 9rbs

England 73:
Rachel Pike: 17pts, 6rbs
Lauren Falohun (5'9''-G-88): 21pts, 7rbs, 4ast
Porche Grant (6'2''-C-88): 9pts, 16rbs
Chimere Jordan (5'8''-G-89): 19pts, 4rbs, 3ast
LaShandra McCoy: 0pts, 4rbs, 11ast
Starkitsha Higgins: 2pts, 2rbs


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  EUROLEAGUE - Women  


Eurobasket Summer League (Atlanta) Day 3 Press Release: (Game 3) - by Darryl Reshaw
Eurobasket Summer League (Atlanta) Day 3 Press Release: (Game 3)

(Atlanta) July 22, 2011

The final day of the ESL Women's event featured some outstanding play and talent.
There were some athletes at the Suwanee Sports Center that deserve to play professionally overseas this coming season.
The collection of talent at this years ESL Women's event may have been the best group since Eurobasket has created this particular group.

In the first game of the day Greece defeated England 76-73 in a very exciting contest that went down to the final possession.
Both teams played hard and displayed some outstanding performances.

Greece was lead by the hot shooting Alex Winchell (5'6''-G-89) who made seven (7) three point shots in the contest and showed she was the most dangerous shooter at the event.
Her range was WNBA like and as a point guard she has great ball handling skills and can run a team on a professional level.
She is an excellent prospect for European teams looking for a PG who can shoot the lights out.
Sheena Brown (5'8''-G, agency: Gamble Sports Management) scored 14 points and capped out a fine ESL Tourney as she is an excellent combo guard that can really score by shooting or driving to the basket.
Taneskei Richardson (6'0''-F, agency: Gamble Sports Management) chipped in 14 points and 5 rebounds as she demonstrated she is a fine inside player with upside potential.
Rachel Oswald (6'0''-F) the smooth scoring forward had another quality game and poured in 13 points and 6 rebounds.
Rachel has a beautiful mid range game featuring and turn around jump shot and a nice step back.
She has a nice all around game and can really play on both ends and has great size.
England was led by Lauren Falohun (5'9''-G-88, agency: Gamble Sports Management) with 21 points and 7 rebounds. She also had an outstanding tournament displaying, athleticism, a great work ethic and fine all around guard play. She is an excellent defensive player with lots of energy and she can score , rebound and pass.
Chimere Jordan (5'8''-G-89) almost single handedly brought the England team back as she scored 17 points in the second half.
She was probably the sleeper in the ESL Women's event as far as hidden talent.
She is an explosive scorer with skills to create and has a nice jump shot.
She is a nice athlete and would be a great pick up for European teams looking for an outstanding player.
Last but not least was Porche Grant (6'2''-C-88) the rebounding machine she pulled 16 rebounds in this contest and scored 9 points.
She is a athletic work horse and would help any team overseas looking for a great inside player with upside potential.


Greece: 76
Chakia Cole: 0pts,
Rachel Oswald (6'0''-F): 13pts, 6rbs
Sheena Brown (5'8''-G, agency: Gamble Sports Management): 14pts, 5rbs, 7ast
Leslie Forest: 6pts, 4rbs
Taneskei Richardson (6'0''-F, agency: Gamble Sports Management) 14pts, 7rbs
Alex Winchell (5'6''-G-89): 23pts, 6ast
Shanrika Hardeman: 6pts, 9rbs

England 73:
Rachel Pike: 17pts, 6rbs
Lauren Falohun (5'9''-G-88): 21pts, 7rbs, 4ast
Porche Grant (6'2''-C-88): 9pts, 16rbs
Chimere Jordan (5'8''-G-89): 19pts, 4rbs, 3ast
LaShandra McCoy: 0pts, 4rbs, 11ast
Starkitsha Higgins: 2pts, 2rbs


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  GERMANY - Women  


Brunckhorst transfers to Freiburg - by Juliane Hoehne
Svenja Brunckhorst (178-G-91), who had played the last 10 season for TSV 1880 Wasserburg, who just won the German Champion and the German Cup, will play the up-coming season for Eisvogel USC Freiburg. Last season, the 19-year old guard played about 20minutes in 30games and averaged 4.7ppg as well as 2.2rpg. She also played in the U20 Nationalteam, where she averaged 5.9ppg and 3.6rpg in about 28minutes on the court. Reasons for the transfer were her personal plans on and off the court. Svenja Brunckhorst wants to develop herself as a player, and will go to school in Freiburg.

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  ITALY - Women  


U19 Italy hands 70-64 loss to U19 China - by Eurobasket News
U19 CHINA - U19 ITALY 64-70

Second straight win for Italy in Chile. They handed 70-64 loss to China improving to 2-0 record in Preliminary Group A. On the other side, China stays winless. Debora Carangelo (167-PG-92) top-scored for Italy with 19 points and Giulia Maffenini (180-F-92) added 17 points, plus 5 boards. Francesca Dotto (189-C-93) followed them with 14 pts. In China, Sun had 18 points and 9 rebounds. Yu Dong (195-C-93) had 13 pts and 5 rebs, while Yang Xi (184-G-94) stopped to 11 points. Quarters: 9-14, 21-18, 18-16, 16-22. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Italy will meet Canada and the winner will end as No.1 of Group A. China will play against Egypt and it will be a do-or-die game for both teams.

China: Sun 18+9 boards, Yu Dong 13, Yang Xi 11
Italy: Debora Carangelo 19, Giulia Maffenini 17+5 boards, Francesca Dotto 14

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  JAPAN - Women  


U19 Japan grabs the first win in Chile - by Eurobasket News
U19 JAPAN - U19 ARGENTINA 90-71

Both teams failed in Day One of the U19 World Championship in Chile. Japan grabbed the first win at this event beating Argentina 90-71 on Friday evening. Aya Watanabe (170-G-92) was a key player in victory with 33 points and 11 rebounds. She reached valuation 38 and was the MVP of this meeting. Sanae Motokawa (175-F-92) followed her with 18 points and 6 boards, while Aoi Katsura (170-PG-92) added 10 points, plus 5 boards. In Argentina, Natasha Spiatta (177-F-92) top-scored with 12 points. Diana Cabrera (187-C-93) had 11 points and 11 rebounds, while Melisa Gretter (167-PG-93) added 10 points and 7 boards. Their team dropped to 0-2. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Japan will meet Russia. Argentina will play against USA.

Japan: Aya Watanabe 33+11 boards, Sanae Motokawa 18+6 boards, Aoi Katsura 10+5 boards
Argentina: Natasha Spiatta 12, Diana Cabrera 11+11 boards, Melisa Gretter 10+7 boards

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  NCAA1 - Women  


U19 USA too strong for U19 Russia 76-53, jumps to 2-0 - by Eurobasket News
U19 RUSSIA - U19 USA 53-76

Both teams celebrated in Day One of the U19 World Championship in Chile. USA was too strong fro Russia 76-53 in this meeting jumping to 2-0 record in Group B. Russia dropped to 1-1. USA took control on their rivals from the very beginning and never looked back. Diamond Deshields (186-G/F-95) top-scored for USA with 16 points. Breanna Stewart (191-F-94) had 14 and Elizabeth Williams (191-C-93) added 11 points, plus 10 boards. In Russia, Kseniya Andreeva (185-F-92) responded with 15 points. Ekaterina Kubynina (170-G-92) followed with three points less. Quarters: 7-18, 12-22, 13-25, 21-11. In the last game of the Preliminary Round, USA will meet Argentina. Russia will take on Japan.

Russia: Kseniya Andreeva 15, Ekaterina Kubynina 12
USA: Diamond Deshields 16, Breanna Stewart 14, Elizabeth Williams 11+10 boards

NCAA considers starting women's tourney earlier - by Eurobasket News
Future NCAA's women's basketball tournaments may not have to going head-to-head against the men's tourney.

On Thursday, the governing body announced the Division I women's basketball committee will study the feasibility of moving the start of the tournament back one week from its typical mid-March start. No deadline has been set for a recommendation, and the study still needs to be approved by two additional NCAA committees. But the possibility of sliding the entire tournament back one week -- and possibly changing game days -- is real.

'I think what the committee wants to do is take a really hard look at what's best for the tournament,' Sue Donohoe, NCAA vice president of Division I women's basketball, told The Associated Press on Thursday. 'If they believe that's what's best for the tournament, they will look at the competition days. They're going to look at the shift first and if that is the case, what is in the best interest for tourney dates.'

The proposal will not affect the 2012 tournament and is unlikely to be in place before the 2013 tourney either, Donohoe said.

Currently, the women's first-round games coincide with the start of the second-round play in the men's tourney. The women's second-round games are held on Monday and Tuesday, when the men are off. The women's championship game is held one day after the men's title game.

But committee members want to evaluate whether a later start date will increase attendance, make the tourney more attractive to corporate partners and generate more media coverage.

'As a committee, we want to do what is best for women's basketball,' said Marilyn McNeil, the committee chairwoman and the athletic director at Monmouth. 'If this is the best way of enhancing the championship, the sooner a decision is made, the sooner an implementation date can be established.'

If a new March starting date is approved, the women's basketball calendar may need significant adjustments.

The start of practice and regular-season games would likely be pushed back. Conference tournament dates would probably have to be moved, and the recruiting calendar also would probably be changed.

Donohoe also said ESPN, which telecasts all 63 tourney games, has been involved in the preliminary discussions. ESPN signed an 11-year deal to broadcast the women's tourney in 2001 and has broadcast the tourney exclusively since 1996. But Donohoe said ESPN was not pushing to move the tourney.

'No, this is driven out of the DI women's basketball committee,' she said in explaining the committee had looked at five or six different models over the past two years.

The announcement comes a little more than three months after NCAA statistics showed the 2011 tournament had better attendance, stronger television ratings and lower travel costs.

The numbers released by the governing body show attendance at first and second-round sites increased by 4 percent from 2010 to 146,787. The four regional sites drew 68,021 fans, the third-highest total in tourney history and the most since 2003. That was a 64 percent increase over 2010, according to the NCAA. And the regional final attendance, the NCAA said, was up 93 percent over 2010.

Last season, NCAA figures show that women's basketball also drew a record-high overall attendance of 7,574,644.

ESPN's average rating of 1.44 for the tournament was a 14 percent improvement over the 1.26 average in 2010 and was the third-highest total since ESPN began broadcasting the tourney. The Texas A&M-Notre Dame title game drew an average rating of 2.80, a 5 percent increase over the title game's 2.67 in 2010.

So why now?

'I think that's a fair point, but when you're looking at something of this nature, you're not looking short term, you're looking long term,' Donohoe said. 'I think the committee wants to look at the future and what are some sustainable opportunities for growth.'

Changing the basketball calendar won't be the only complication if the new dates are eventually approved.

There are contracts for conference tournaments and Final Fours, which have been awarded through 2016, to deal with, too.

'It may be the biggest jigsaw puzzle of putting all the pieces together,' Donohoe said. 'Fortunately, we built in the ability to change dates up to so many months out, but I don't know that our conferences have that sort of contractual obligations built into their contracts.'

The committee also said it will change the announcement dates for future host sites.

Sites for the 2013 first and second-round games and regional sites will be announced next spring. Previously, those decisions were made about 18 months before the tourney.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Tennessee junior Kamiko Williams has surgery on ACL in left knee - by Eurobasket News
Tennessee junior guard Kamiko Williams (5'11''-G) is recovering from surgery on a torn ligament in her left knee.

Associate athletic director Jenny Moshak said the surgery to reconstruct Williiams anterior cruciate ligament was performed Friday and that Williams will begin rehabilitation immediately.

The junior from Clarksville, Tenn., injured her knee July 7 while playing in the Womens Rocky Top League, a summer league in Knoxville. She was hurt going for a reverse layup after driving the baseline.

The 5-foot-11 Williams averaged 6.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and 17.9 minutes in 37 games last season, including four starts.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

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  RUSSIA - Women  


U19 USA too strong for U19 Russia 76-53, jumps to 2-0 - by Eurobasket News
U19 RUSSIA - U19 USA 53-76

Both teams celebrated in Day One of the U19 World Championship in Chile. USA was too strong fro Russia 76-53 in this meeting jumping to 2-0 record in Group B. Russia dropped to 1-1. USA took control on their rivals from the very beginning and never looked back. Diamond Deshields (186-G/F-95) top-scored for USA with 16 points. Breanna Stewart (191-F-94) had 14 and Elizabeth Williams (191-C-93) added 11 points, plus 10 boards. In Russia, Kseniya Andreeva (185-F-92) responded with 15 points. Ekaterina Kubynina (170-G-92) followed with three points less. Quarters: 7-18, 12-22, 13-25, 21-11. In the last game of the Preliminary Round, USA will meet Argentina. Russia will take on Japan.

Russia: Kseniya Andreeva 15, Ekaterina Kubynina 12
USA: Diamond Deshields 16, Breanna Stewart 14, Elizabeth Williams 11+10 boards

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  SLOVENIA - Women  


U19 Brazil stays unbeaten in Chile - by Eurobasket News
U19 SLOVENIA - U19 BRAZIL 50-67

Brazil celebrated second straight win in Chile. After victory against Spain in Day One, Brazil handed 67-50 loss to Slovenia for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group D. Thanks to this win, Brazil already booked a ticket for the next stage. On the other side, Slovenia dropped to 0-2 but still has some chances to reach the Qualifying Round. Damiris Dantas (192-C-92) shined for Brazil with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Isabela Ramona (178-F-94) had 11 points and 7 rebs, while Tassia Carcavalli (178-F-92) added 10 points. In Slovenia, Tjasa Gortnar (187-C-92) collected 17 points and 6 boards. Eva Rupnik (177-F-92) (5 rebs) and Nina Gabrovsek (168-PG-94) had 12 pts each. Quarters: 17-19, 6-13, 12-22, 15-13. In Day Three, Brazil will meet Taiwan. Slovenia will take on Spain.

Slovenia: Tjasa Gortnar 17+6 boards, Eva Rupnik 12+5 boards, Nina Gabrovsek 12
Brazil: Damiris Dantas 21+9 boards, Isabela Ramona 11+7 boards, Tassia Carcavalli 10

*****************************************************
  SPAIN - Women  


Queralt Casas leads U19 Spain to first win in Chile - by Eurobasket News
U19 SPAIN - U19 TAIWAN 77-47

U19 Spain registered their first win in Chile. They handed 77-47 loss to Taiwan joining them with 1-1 record in Preliminary Group D. Both teams have a nice chance to reach the next stage. Queralt Casas (180-G-92) stepped up for Spain with 18 points. Marina Delgado (171-PG-92) had 12 points and 7 rebounds, while Astou Ndour (193-C-94) added 9 points and 14 rebs. In defeat, Chang Chi-Fang (174-G-93) collected 12 points and Wei Yu-Chun (176-G-92) stopped to 9. Quarters: 14-10, 12-13, 30-11, 21-13. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Spain will meet Slovenia. On the other side, Taiwan will take on Brazil. Brazil is currently No.1 in this pool with perfect 3-0 record.

Spain: Queralt Casas 18, Marina Delgado 12+7 boards, Astou Ndour 9+14 boards
Taiwan: Chang Chi-Fang 12, Wei Yu-Chun 9

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  TAIWAN - Women  


Queralt Casas leads U19 Spain to first win in Chile - by Eurobasket News
U19 SPAIN - U19 TAIWAN 77-47

U19 Spain registered their first win in Chile. They handed 77-47 loss to Taiwan joining them with 1-1 record in Preliminary Group D. Both teams have a nice chance to reach the next stage. Queralt Casas (180-G-92) stepped up for Spain with 18 points. Marina Delgado (171-PG-92) had 12 points and 7 rebounds, while Astou Ndour (193-C-94) added 9 points and 14 rebs. In defeat, Chang Chi-Fang (174-G-93) collected 12 points and Wei Yu-Chun (176-G-92) stopped to 9. Quarters: 14-10, 12-13, 30-11, 21-13. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Spain will meet Slovenia. On the other side, Taiwan will take on Brazil. Brazil is currently No.1 in this pool with perfect 3-0 record.

Spain: Queralt Casas 18, Marina Delgado 12+7 boards, Astou Ndour 9+14 boards
Taiwan: Chang Chi-Fang 12, Wei Yu-Chun 9

*****************************************************
  USBA - Women  


WUSBA retains Simmie Lavender as Supervisor of Officials - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga. (July 23, 2011)----- As the Women's United States Basketball Association prepares for its inaugural basketball season in August, President Duane Allen Jenkins announced the hiring of long-time official Simmie Lavender as their Supervisor of Officials. 'With the addition of Lavender, the WUSBA will implement a number of rule changes and adjustments that will increase the credibility of professional sports.'

'Mr. Lavender will deliver a professional policy of officiating to the WUSBA as he has in the S.I.A.C. We are pleased to bring his experience and background in officiating to the WUSBA,Jenkins said.'

Lavender, which is currently serving as Supervisor of Officials, for the S.I.A.C., and is currently serving as a trainer and clinician for NCAA basketball officials. With over 40-years of officiating under his belt, Lavender has officiated numerous NCAA Division I and Division II men and women tournament games over his illustrious career.

Lavender will also oversee all game assignments during the 2011 WUSBA fall basketball season.

'My Officials will show the utmost professionalism at all times during the game, said Lavender. This will enhance the credibility and fairness of the game of basketball and increase the level of play.'

Lavender a 1965 graduate of Morehouse College in Atlanta Georgia stated, 'I have known Jenkins since 1993 when joined our basketball official association, I assisted in training him in the proper conduct of an Official. I'm pleased to help him and the WUSBA be the best they can be, it starts with having highly qualified officials, we will offer the best people in the south.'



WUSBA team and arena location for 2011 basketball season - by USBA Media
Atlanta, Ga. (July23, 2010) --- 'We are extremely pumped about this upcoming basketball season said,' WUSBA president, Duane Allen Jenkins. 'Our first season is set to go and our future in the world of basketball looks very bright.' The Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) today made public the final roster of teams, along with the teams home arena and gymnasiums. This new women's professional basketball league is scheduled to begin play on August 27, 2011. The league will field sixteen teams in four divisions. League sources states 'Timing is everything, particularly in business, the time is right to begin our inaugural basketball campaign.' The WUSBA originated in January 2010. The league was born out of an effort to expand womens professional basketball in the United States. The WUSBA was activated when the leagues brother company, the United States basketball Association (USBA) placed its inaugural season on hold. The USBA originally planned to place basketball teams in the Southeast United States. Jenkins made the decision to place efforts behind the activation of the WUSBA. The decision to postpone again the opening of the USBA was not an easy one to make; there are critics who will blast me for this decision; however after every forest fire, new life assuredly flourishes, said Jenkins. The WUSBA was always in our plans. In the United States and in Europe women play ball on the highest level and we are pleased with our decision to place our emphasis on their success.
The league will begin with sixteen teams in four divisions; the teams are spread out over eight southern states.

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

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

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

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

New cities and teams will be added periodically. The complete 2011 schedule will become available to the public on July 1, 2011.

Each team will play a 26 game regular season followed by the leagues championship tournament. The WUSBA local team tryouts will be held on August 13, 2011 in each team city. Location and time schedules for the tryouts will be made available in the very near future. 'I'm real comfortable in the leagues success,' said Jenkins. 'I feel we can make a real impact on the game of basketball and the local charitable organizations in each of our teams cities.' The league has ties with the United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots, Feeding America, Boys and Girls Club of America and local churches. During previous holiday seasons, the WUSBA enlisted the help of the Feeding America and the U.S.M.C. to conduct a series of basketball games to collect toys, clothing and food for the needy. According to reports filed, seven cities held games gave away prizes to fans that contributed toys, clothing and food. 'The WUSBA will make the same commitment to the communities and give them aid via the programs we created.' said Jenkins.

LEAGUE PERSONNEL
Executive Department:
Commissioner- Mrs. Jeanne Hunter (Honorary)
President / C.E.O. -Duane Allen Jenkins
Executive Vice President / Basketball Operations -Kenneth Green
Director of Operations - Regina Eubanks
Director of League Personnel -Terry Truax
Director of Player Personnel - Corin Adams
Director of Administration - Elyria Skyill
Director of Marketing - Duane Allen Jenkins
Director of Human Resources - Clare Irving
Director of Media Relations (TBA) -
Supervisor of Officials - Simmie Lavender
Chief of Security (TBA)
Director of Community Affairs (TBA)
General Counsel- Jackie Paterson ESQ
Accounting- Floyd Green and Associate
Web Master- Joey Johnson

Piedmont Division

Augusta Raging River
Richmond Academy High School
Richmond Academy Field House (2500)
2500 Walton Way
Augusta, Georgia 30904

Charlotte Blue Wave
Lifepointe Christian Church
Bobcat Practice Facility (3300)
13209 Carowinds Blvd
Charlotte, North Carolina 28273

Columbia Breeze
Benedict College
HRC Arena (2300)

1600 Hardin Street
Columbia, South Carolina 28204

Winston Salem Cardinals
Winston Salem State University
C.E Gaines Center (3500)
601 South Martin Luther King Jr. Drive
Winston Salem, North Carolina 27110

_______________________________

Southern Division

Atlanta Platinum
Norcross High School
NHS Gymnasium (2500)
5505 Spalding Drive
Norcross, Georgia 30092

Macon Storm
Southwest High School
SHS Gymnasium (2200)
12101 Sycamore Station Place
Macon, Georgia

Birmingham Starz
George Washington Carver High School
Carver Gymnasium (2700)
3900 24th Street North
Birmingham, Alabama 35207

Montgomery Spirit
Alabama State University
ASU ACCA Dome (5000)
915 South Jackson Street
Montgomery, Alabama 34104

_______________________________

Appalachian Division

Chattanooga Royal
Tennessee Temple University
McGillivray Gymnasium (2500)
1815 Union Avenue
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37404

Knoxville Reign
Farragut High School
FHS Gymnasium (2900)
11237 Kingston Pike
Knoxville, Tennessee 37934

Nashville Thunder
Glen Cliff High School
GCHS Gymnasium (2800)
160 Antioch Pike
Nashville, Tennessee 37211

West Virginia Capitals
Capital High School
CHS Gymnasium (2500)
1500 Greenbrier Street
Charleston, West Virginia 25311

_________________________________



Atlantic Division

Savannah Seahawks
Sol Johnson High School
Johnson Gymnasium (2200)
3012 Sun Set Blvd.
Savannah, Georgia 31214

Richmond Colonial
Virginia State University
Daniel Gymnasium (3700)
1 Hayden Drive
Petersburg, Virginia 23806

Jacksonville Surf
Edward Waters College
Adams-Jenkins Sports Center (2300)
1658 Kings Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32209

Charleston Cadets
College of Charleston
Carolina 1st Arena (3500)
66 George Street
Charleston, South Carolina 29424

(This is a list of all WUSBA tentative and confirmed home team gymnasiums. Players and agents can contact the Head Coach directly with inquires. All locations have given their permission to secure the gymnasium. Agreements of Usage are in place. Final contracts are pending and have preliminary approval from each location. Each Client Arena has a confidentially agreement and is not at liberty to disclose certain contents of any agreements made with the Womens United States Basketball Association without written permission of the WUSBA and the Client Arena).



*****************************************************
  WNBA - Women  


Sun waive veteran F DeMya Walker - by Eurobasket News
The Connecticut Sun have waived veteran forward Demya Walker (6'3''-F/C-77, college: Virginia).

The 6-foot-3 Walker averaged 2.4 points while appearing in 10 of the Suns 14 games this season. Selected with the third pick in the Sacramento Monarchs dispersal draft after the 2009 season, Walker averaged 4.1 points in 31 games last year.

It was a mutual parting of the ways, Sun coach Mike Thibault said. She wanted to go some place where she had an opportunity to play more. We obviously were going in a different direction with our roster. ... This gives us a chance to bring in a young post to develop for the future.

The Sun - second in the Eastern Conference, one-half game behind Indiana, are expected to sign a replacement before the team reconvenes Monday after the All-Star break.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Shock signs Karima Christmas, waives Doneeka Lewis - by Eurobasket News
The Tulsa Shock has signed Karima Christmas (6'0''-G/F-89, college: Duke), a 6-foot guard who recently was released by the Washington Mystics.

Christmas, a second-round pick in the 2011 WNBA Draft, takes over a Shock roster spot vacated by Thursday nights release of Doneeka Lewis (5'9''-G-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU).

Christmas averaged 3.4 points and 1.2 rebounds for the Mystics through 14 games this year. A Duke product, she scored a career-high 13 points against Indiana this year.

Christmas is the Shocks second signing in as many day. The Shock released Marion Jones on Thursday, replacing the guard with forward Abi Olajuwon on Thursday.

Courtesy of www.tulsaworld.com

*****************************************************
  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U19 - Women  


Day Two in Chile - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Egypt - Canada 54-99
Canada demonstrated another great performance in Chile. This time they outplayed Egypt for 2-0 record in Preliminary Group B. On the other side, Egypt dropped to 0-2. With this victory, Canada already secured a ticket for the next stage. Nirra Fields (178-PG-93) shined for Canada with 19 points. Diana Lee (170-G-92) and Korissa Williams (177-G-92) followed her with 12 points each. In the loosing squad, Hagar Amer (184-F-93) replied with 14 points and 5 boards. Reem Osama (170-PG-93) scored 12 and Sara Massoud (174-G-92) added 10 points, plus 7 boards. Quarters: 5-28, 14-25, 19-22, 16-24. In Game Three, Canada will meet Italy. Egypt will play against China and it will be a do-or-die game for both teams.

China - Italy 64-70
Second straight win for Italy in Chile. They handed 70-64 loss to China improving to 2-0 record in Preliminary Group A. On the other side, China stays winless. Debora Carangelo (167-PG-92) top-scored for Italy with 19 points and Giulia Maffenini (180-F-92) added 17 points, plus 5 boards. Francesca Dotto (189-C-93) followed them with 14 pts. In China, Sun had 18 points and 9 rebounds. Yu Dong (195-C-93) had 13 pts and 5 rebs, while Yang Xi (184-G-94) stopped to 11 points. Quarters: 9-14, 21-18, 18-16, 16-22. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Italy will meet Canada and the winner will end as No.1 of Group A. China will play against Egypt and it will be a do-or-die game for both teams.

Group B
Russia - USA 53-76
Both teams celebrated in Day One of the U19 World Championship in Chile. USA was too strong fro Russia 76-53 in this meeting jumping to 2-0 record in Group B. Russia dropped to 1-1. USA took control on their rivals from the very beginning and never looked back. Diamond Deshields (186-G/F-95) top-scored for USA with 16 points. Breanna Stewart (191-F-94) had 14 and Elizabeth Williams (191-C-93) added 11 points, plus 10 boards. In Russia, Kseniya Andreeva (185-F-92) responded with 15 points. Ekaterina Kubynina (170-G-92) followed with three points less. Quarters: 7-18, 12-22, 13-25, 21-11. In the last game of the Preliminary Round, USA will meet Argentina. Russia will take on Japan.

Japan - Argentina 90-71
Both teams failed in Day One of the U19 World Championship in Chile. Japan grabbed the first win at this event beating Argentina 90-71 on Friday evening. Aya Watanabe (170-G-92) was a key player in victory with 33 points and 11 rebounds. She reached valuation 38 and was the MVP of this meeting. Sanae Motokawa (175-F-92) followed her with 18 points and 6 boards, while Aoi Katsura (170-PG-92) added 10 points, plus 5 boards. In Argentina, Natasha Spiatta (177-F-92) top-scored with 12 points. Diana Cabrera (187-C-93) had 11 points and 11 rebounds, while Melisa Gretter (167-PG-93) added 10 points and 7 boards. Their team dropped to 0-2. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Japan will meet Russia. Argentina will play against USA.

Group C

Nigeria - France 0-20

Chile - Australia 46-77
Group D
Spain - Taiwan 77-47
U19 Spain registered their first win in Chile. They handed 77-47 loss to Taiwan joining them with 1-1 record in Preliminary Group D. Both teams have a nice chance to reach the next stage. Queralt Casas (180-G-92) stepped up for Spain with 18 points. Marina Delgado (171-PG-92) had 12 points and 7 rebounds, while Astou Ndour (193-C-94) added 9 points and 14 rebs. In defeat, Chang Chi-Fang (174-G-93) collected 12 points and Wei Yu-Chun (176-G-92) stopped to 9. Quarters: 14-10, 12-13, 30-11, 21-13. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Spain will meet Slovenia. On the other side, Taiwan will take on Brazil. Brazil is currently No.1 in this pool with perfect 3-0 record.

Slovenia - Brazil 50-67
Brazil celebrated second straight win in Chile. After victory against Spain in Day One, Brazil handed 67-50 loss to Slovenia for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group D. Thanks to this win, Brazil already booked a ticket for the next stage. On the other side, Slovenia dropped to 0-2 but still has some chances to reach the Qualifying Round. Damiris Dantas (192-C-92) shined for Brazil with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Isabela Ramona (178-F-94) had 11 points and 7 rebs, while Tassia Carcavalli (178-F-92) added 10 points. In Slovenia, Tjasa Gortnar (187-C-92) collected 17 points and 6 boards. Eva Rupnik (177-F-92) (5 rebs) and Nina Gabrovsek (168-PG-94) had 12 pts each. Quarters: 17-19, 6-13, 12-22, 15-13. In Day Three, Brazil will meet Taiwan. Slovenia will take on Spain.

Standings (Women)
Standings
Group A
1. Canada2-0
2. Italy2-0
3. China0-2
4. Egypt0-2
Group B
1. USA2-0
2. Japan1-1
3. Russia1-1
4. Argentina0-2
Group C
1. Australia2-0
2. France2-0
3. Nigeria0-2
4. Chile0-2
Group D
1. Brazil2-0
2. Spain1-1
3. Taiwan1-1
4. Slovenia0-2


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Nirra FIELDS
  CAN
  (178-PG-93)
  Avg: 20.5
 1. Fields, CAN20.5 
 2. Watanabe, JPN20.5 
 3. Gortnar, SLO20.0 
 4. Dantas, BRA20.0 
 5. Motokawa, JPN19.0 
 6. Amer, EGY18.0 
 7. Casas, ESP17.0 
 8. Lin, TAI17.0 
 9. Andreeva, RUS15.0 
 10. Ayayi, FRA15.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Laura GIL
  (190-C-92)
  Avg: 11
 1. Gil, ESP11.0 
 2. Dantas, BRA11.0 
 3. Gortnar, SLO10.0 
 4. Ndour, ESP9.0 
 5. Cabrera, ARG8.5 
 6. Watanabe, JPN8.5 
 7. Barba, FRA8.0 
 8. Amer, EGY8.0 
 9. Stewart, USA8.0 
 10. Goncalves, BRA7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Rui MACHIDA
  (160-PG-93)
  Avg: 4
 1. Machida, JPN4.0 
 2. Takada, JPN3.5 
 3. Massengale, USA3.5 
 4. Gretter, ARG3.5 
 5. Baric, SLO3.0 
 6. Martins, BRA3.0 
 7. Bouzenna, FRA3.0 
 8. Deshields, USA2.5 
 9. Hartley, USA2.5 
 10. Pasynkova, RUS2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Bria HARTLEY
  (178-G-92)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Hartley, USA4.5 
 2. Fields, CAN3.5 
 3. Carangelo, ITA3.5 
 4. Martins, BRA3.0 
 5. Degorces, FRA3.0 
 6. Kubynina, RUS3.0 
 7. Massoud, EGY3.0 
 8. Casas, ESP3.0 
 9. Motokawa, JPN2.5 
 10. Osama, EGY2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Astou NDOUR
  (193-C-94)
  Avg: 3
 1. Ndour, ESP3.0 
 2. Roche, FRA2.0 
 3. Stewart, USA2.0 
 4. Elshaarawy, EGY2.0 
 5. Yu, CHN1.5 
 6. Gortnar, SLO1.5 
 7. Konteh, FRA1.0 
 8. Dantas, BRA1.0 
 9. Grossemy, FRA1.0 
 10. Videla, CHI1.0