EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/13/2011

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Men News

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  AUSTRALIA   


Perry Lakes looking to stun Lightning (MSBL Semi-Final Preview) - by Eurobasket News
Total Connections Perry Lakes Hawks must stop Lakeside Lightning's dominant run when they meet in the men's State Basketball League semi-finals.

The Hawks and Lightning commence their best-of-three series at the WA Basketball Centre on Saturday, with the final two games at Lakeside a week later, as they try to advance to face the winner of the series between Wanneroo Wolves and Cockburn Cougars in the Grand Final on August 27.

Minor premiers and last year's runner-up Lakeside will start the series as strong favourites as they enter the series on an 18-game winning streak and have lost just twice all season.

But the Hawks were the last team to beat the Lightning and will take plenty of confidence from that, as well as their comfortably quarter-finals victory against Stirling.

The two sides have plenty of history in the playoffs, as Lakeside beat the Hawks in the 2005 and 2009 Grand Finals, and Perry Lakes will be desperate for revenge.

And Hawks forward Ben Purser (200-F/G-90, college: Augusta St.) will be integral to his side's chances of causing an upset as he is expected to match up against Lakeside star Ben Beran, who averaged 40.5 points in his side's two-nil series win against East Perth.

In the other series, Cockburn will be looking to continue its meteoric rise by knocking off the Wolves in game one at Wally Hagan Stadium on Saturday.

The Cougars finished 12th last year with just eight wins but have improved remarkably this year under championship-winning coach Stephen Charlton, thanks largely to the incredible performances of star imports Stanley Ocitti and Ty Harrelson.

Harrelson had 50 points in game two to help the Cougars sweep the Redbacks and finding a way to stop him will be the biggest challenge for Wolves assistant coach Ryan Benson, who will again be leading the side for game one, with Ben Ettridge away with Australia's wheelchair basketball team.

But Wanneroo boasts huge amounts of experience, led by Perth Wildcats co-captain Brad Robbins (186-G-85), and shouldn't be daunted by the big stage.

Both sides will also be looking to break long championship droughts, with Cockburn's last title coming in 1992 and Wanneroo's one year later.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL

Stewart charged for final run - by Eurobasket News
THE burning competitor inside Hobart Chargers playing-coach Anthony Stewart still says he has another couple of years of basketball left him.

Unfortunately, like most aging sports stars, the body is telling him otherwise.

Stewart, 41, will play his last match in front of home fans tomorrow night when the Chargers host rival Frankston at Aurora Sports Stadium.

It will cap a journey which started as a teenager on the North-West Coast, saw him represent the now-defunct Devils in the NBL at the Derwent Entertainment Centre, take him to Perth and Cairns and included countless highlights and memories along the way - none more so than national representation and tours of America.

Stewart will be regarded as one of the best basketballers Tasmania has produced, a deadly threat from three-point range and a player other sides love to hate.

He played a total of 489 NBL matches for four clubs, scoring 6304 points at an average of 12.90 to go with an average of 3.2 rebounds and 3.1 assists.

His love of the game is still evident for all to see, but the reality of how much he is missing out on spending time with his two children - six-year-old Archie and Tommy, four - hit home last week.

The Chargers had the bye and instead of spending the weekend recovering from a match, Stewart had enough energy to kick the football with his kids.

It led to Archie asking why his dad wasn't so tired, and Stewart knew his playing days were about to come to an end.

'Two weeks ago I can honestly say I told one of the sponsors I was playing on. He couldn't believe it when I announced my retirement,' Stewart says.

'I think I'm playing well, I'm averaging 16 points a game at a good percentage, shooting the ball well, I'm probably not as effective on both ends of the floor but I still feel I can hold my own on the court.

'I'm still loving the competitive side. I love playing against North West Thunder, I love playing against Geelong, I look forward to those games every year and it's going to be very difficult to actually not be part of that going forward.

'The conversation with Archie really hit home, and talking to [wife] Belinda after that. Even last weekend after the game, I found myself struggling to get around the house and be motivated to do some chores and things like that and play with the kids.

'It does take a lot out of you when you are 41 and trying to play at that level, although you love it on the night and are ready to go then because of the atmosphere and the people involved and the competitive nature I have in my body.

'The two days after are hell, especially on a road trip. I've got a new role with Beacon which demands a lot of my time as well, it's a great job and opportunity but after a road trip on a Monday you are pretty banged up and sore.

'Yes you can play too long but statistically I'm holding my own, it was just more of a decision with the family.'

Even if he had tried to, Stewart couldn't have scripted his farewell match on home soil any better.

Hobart is locked in a tight battle with Sandringham and Frankston for the last two positions in the South Conference playoffs, with the latter stringing together seven victories in a row.

Adding to the clash is the return of former Charger Chuck Long, who spent three successful seasons in the state before being axed at the end of 2010.

Long joined the Blues mid-season and has been an integral part of them turning their fortunes around.

As always Stewart will leave nothing on the court, and will do whatever it takes to ensure his side remains in finals contention.

'I've had so many players over the years who have joined a club I'm playing with and they have said I was totally opposite to what they thought I was like,' he says.

'That's my competitive nature. I don't take a backward step on the floor and I don't apologise for that.

'I've never punched someone in a game, but I will do whatever it takes to win and protect the team I'm playing for on the night.'

Behind every sportsman is the supporting wife, and Belinda has shared every step of the journey with Stewart.

She has ridden the highs and lows and seen first hand the mood swings which both failure and success brings, but has no regrets.

'There are tough times. If he has a bad game it can last until the next weekend, if the team is struggling it affects family life too,' Belinda says.

'You learn to get around it and deal with the things that pop up.

'I've had a great time though, we've travelled and made some great friends around the world. I got to study while he had his career so it works both ways.

'It's hard to imagine him not playing basketball, it has always been there. When we finished with the NBL I think I struggled more than he did as far as lifestyle goes.

'But from about his late 30s his body started to slow down and the last few years I've noticed it takes him a whole weekend to recover after a game.

'The kids seem to miss out on their footy with dad, and what Archie said last week hit home.'

As for the man himself, he knows come 10pm tomorrow night there will be mixed emotions.

'I said to Belinda the other night there is no way I can talk [to the players] after the game,' he says.

'It's going to hurt not playing at that level in front of a home crowd again.

'Basically everything to me has been basketball, other than my home life. I live it, breathe it, I just can't believe it's going to be over soon.'
Courtesy of: www.themercury.com.au

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  BALKAN LEAGUE   


Ten teams have confirmed their participation in the 2011/2012 EUROHOLD BIBL - by Eurobasket News
Ten teams from six countries have officially confirmed their participation in the 2011/2012 edition of the EUROHOLD Balkan League. Seven of those teams already have experience in the BIBL in the past seasons, while three of them are new to the League and set to make their debut.

HKK Zrinjski Mostar will represent Bosnia & Herzegovina in 2011/2012, as this will be their second consecutive appearance in the BIBL.

Bulgaria will be represented by two former champions of the BIBL - BC Levski (2010 champion) and BC Rilski Sportist (2009 champion). Both teams havent missed a season in the BIBL.

Macedonia will have KK Feni, the current EUROHOLD Balkan League champion, a team, playing in the BIBL since the first season of the competition. The other team, set to make their debut in the BIBL is KK Torus Skopje.

The Montenegrin teams will be the same like last season - local rivals KK Mornar Bar and KK Ulcinj.

BC Timisoara are set for debut in the BIBL, as they will be the only Romanian participant in the League this season.

Serbia will have OKK Beograd, who already have solid experience in the BIBL and a new team - KK Napredak Rubin from Krusevac.

At a later stage, the league might expand to a bigger number of teams (12), as there is still a pending approval from FIBA for Israeli team/s to join the BIBL. All the member federations have already approved Israel to become part of the BIBL.

Courtesy of www.balkanleague.net

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  BELARUS   


Sweden drive past Belarus in Minsk - by Eurobasket News
Belarus - Sweden 77:86

Sweden recorded the fourth win in Group B of 2011 EuroBasket Division B Qualifying Round. They overcame Belarus on the road tonight. Johan Jeansson (197-G-85) stepped up with 19 points to lead the Scandinavian side. Belarus fell at 1-4 record after the loss.
Belarus stayed in front for the better part of the opening quarter. The hosts ensured a 22:19 lead at the first break. But the visitors stunned Belarus with a 13:2 run at the start of the second frame. Sweden maintained the lead and posted a 40:34 halftime lead. Things hardly changed for Belarus in the third term. They lagged behind throughout the period facing a 55:63 deficit with ten minutes to go. Johan Jeansson made it a 10-point game early in the final frame. Belarus never got closer than 7 points in the reminder of the contest as Sweden celebrated the victory at the end. Anton Gaddefors (200-F-89) knocked down 11 points, while Erik Rush (195-G) had 10 points in the win. Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) answered with 13 points for Belarus. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) netted 11 points in defeat.

Belarus: Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 13, Artsiom Parakhouski 11
Sweden: Johan Jeansson 19, Anton Gaddefors 11, Erik Rush 10


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  BELGIUM   


Charleroi Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Spirou Charleroi has added another player to their 2011-2012 roster. Tornike Shengelia joins the team after one season playing for Voo Verviers-Pepinster in Belgium. The player was already under contract with Charleroi but was loaned out to Verviers. He had a decent season in the Ethias league with 6.5 ppg and 4.1 rpg in 32 games.
This summer he was the top player during the U20 EC held in Bosnia. He led his team and the EC with 29.9 ppg and came in second in rebounding with 12.0 rpg in 9 games.
Over his young career he played for the Georgian U16, U18 and U20 national teams. He is also a member of the Georgian senior NT.


Former Belgian NT players Marc Deheneffe and Daniel Goethals talk about the Lions' campaigns of 1993 and 2011 - by Bert Larsimont

For the first time after 18 years, the Belgian Lions will participate in a FIBA European Championship Final Round to be held in Lithuania from August 31st to September 18th, 2011. Eurobasket.com interviewed two former Belgian Lions who did take part in the 1993 European Championship which was held in Germany. Former Belgian NT's forward Marc Deheneffe, who will be the official consultant for BeTV (a Belgian private TV broadcaster) at the next EuroBasket 2011, as well as former Belgian Lions' center Daniel Goethals, now owning a sport events company (see www.bigdan12.com) and coaching the women's team of BC Dexia Namur Capitale involved in FIBA Eurocup, accepted to answer a few questions about the Belgian Lions of 1993 compared with the ones of 2011.

Here is this exclusive interview:

Bert Larsimont - Eurobasket.com (EB): According to you, Marc and Daniel, what are the strengths (especially) and weaknesses (perhaps) of the Belgian Lions right now?

Marc Deheneffe (M.D.): As far as the strengths are concerned, they have had the chance to do a qualifying round campaign with a lot of supporters to push them where they are now. They have become aware of what they can achieve and now serve the team. The confirmation that Faison and Mbenga can play together for the team is also a plus. All players involved (in the preparation campaign) are motivated and we do not face difficulties to have or not the best players. Actually, following the example of the staff led by Casteels and Stas, everybody does his best in order to go as far as possible.
One weakness? Let us hope that the preparation campaign will be complete enough to allow the Lions to reach the second round at the next EuroBasket 2011.

Daniel Goethals (D.G.): Assets: experienced players who are playing a bit everywhere in Europe and who are currently in their best years (age 25 to 32)!
Weaknesses: the lack of knowledge and point of reference in the FIBA European Championship, after so many years without having taken part in a final round!

EB: Had the preparation campaign in Orlando brought something positive for the Belgian Lions in 1993?

M.D.: Orlando in 1993 had not only been a unique moment for the Lions (scrimmage game against Shaquille ONeal and his NBA pals) but also one opportunity to train far from home during two weeks and learn to know each other on and off the court. Basketball plays and reflexes were efficient and we had a staff under the management of Leon Wandel who had boosted and given some pride to the players as they deserved it. Moreover, Jack Ramsay perfectly completed the staff by giving us his excellent tips, a big plus for all the players.

D.G.: A lot of cohesion and, above all, the possibility to improve physical condition and tactics! But does such a camp necessarily have to take place that far to be successful?
Thanks to Didier Mbenga's contacts, I think it is a matter of opportunity! But a camp in Spain or elsewhere can also offer this kind of thing...
For the players, it is always interesting to see the facilities and resources available in the United States.

EB: Both of you know the international basketball scene very well. What had the Belgian NT been missing for so many years (18) in order to reach the most prestigious European basketball tournament?

M.D.: As a matter of fact, our league (the Ethias league) has become a competition in which very few Belgian players have had an opportunity to express themselves since the Bosman judgement. In 1993, the top players of the Division I mainly made up the national team which meant therefore that all players met very often and knew each other. Furthermore, Maes Pils Mechelen was then involved in the Euroleague and played the best European teams. That is important for the players. Despite the fact that some current players have an important role in some European clubs, they do not have the opportunity to play much at home. Meanwhile, the Spanish example with some local players being present in the clubs is positive and we should undoubtedly get inspired by this.

D.G.: According to me, the organization and a staff with full powers are the first things! Leon Wandel proved it in the past and Jacques Ledure does it now...
I do not think that the players available between 1994 and 2009 were necessarily not as good as the ones of today, but they were not well supported and the national team was not a priority for the federation!
My opinion is that for both main selections (women's and men's alike), we need to create cells only dedicated to these teams.



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  BOSNIA   


Ratko Varda to skip EuroBasket 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79, agency: Alti Sport) will skip EuroBasket in Lithuania this summer. The experienced center left Bosnian National Team camp. One of the reasons could be that Head Coach Sabit Hadzic decided to give more chance to younger players. Bosnian NT thanked Varda for his service and help in Qualifications to European Championships 2011.
Ratko Varda spent last year and a half with Asseco Prokom. He helped them win two Polish league titles. Last season Varda averaged 9.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.9 steals in 34 PLK games. He also added 13.3 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 10 games in Euroleague. Varda was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Bosman Player of the Year -11. He was also awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Polish League 2nd Team -11. Before Asseco Prokom, Ratko Varda played for Khimky Moscow, Zalgiris, Menorca and Real Madrid. He had 13.5 ppg and 5.3 rpg for 8 games with Bosnian National Team in Qualifications to European Championships 2011.

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  BRAZIL   


Raulzinho gets a deal in Spain - by Paulo Freire
In the Spanish ACB League, the big news of the day involving Brazilians is the arrangement between the Lagun Aro Gipuzkoa BC, from San Sebastian city, and the point guard Raulzinho former Minas who is with Brazil NT fighting for a spot in the final roster.

Raul Neto (186-PG-92) did a great job in the last Fiba U-19 World Tournament in Latvia and is part of the Brazilian National first team since last season.

Talking about last season, Raulzinho was select to the Nike Hoop Summit 2011 in the USA.

There is no doubt Raulzinho has a great future, he is already a high level player but can still develop some more.

Macae sign three players - by Paulo Freire
The CD Macae Sports sign three new players for the Carioca State Tournament.

They all came in from Olympico team from Minas State.

Center Jonny Gomes (212-C-76) is a well knowing big man in Rio de Janeiro, where he have played for several teams, such as Botafogo, Flamengo, Campos and Grajau.

Following the new moves for Macae is point guard Djair Paulino (170-G-76) a very expirience player, that has been playing in Sao Paulo State for long time. To help the defense on the paint is Fernando Henrique (F-84), more knwoing as Fernandao.

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  CHINA   


Matt Freije joined Guangzhou FM - by Eurobasket News
Matt Freije (207-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt) joined Guangzhou FM and had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds in his debut. The USA-Lebanese Forward played just one team this season as the team could not make it to the Semifinals.
Whampoa overcame Guangzhou FM 100-87 to win the series 2-0. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 31-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Whampoa made 32-of-42 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game, while Guangzhou FM only scored eleven points from the stripe. 33 personal fouls committed by Guangzhou FM helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities.
In 2008 Matt Freije played for Brujos de Guayama (Puerto Rico-BSN, starting five) and in 20 games averaged 18.2ppg, 7.1rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 40%, 3PT: 33%, FT: 74%, then moved to Leones de Ponce (Puerto Rico-BSN, starting five) and in 10 games had 16.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4bpg, 2FGP: 46%, 3PT: 40%, FT: 82%. In 2008-2009 started for Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut (Lebanon-Div.A, starting five),but in Nov.'08 moved to Fujian SBS XunXin (China-CBA, starting five) and in 26 games had 19.6ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 65.3%. The season 2009 appeared in Criollos de Caguas (Puerto Rico-BSN, starting five) and in 30 games had massive 20.3ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 41.6%, FT: 76.9%, while in May signed at Mets de Guaynabo (Puerto Rico-BSN). In Dec.'10 signed at Hebraica Macabi (Uruguay-LUB), but in March moved to Maratonistas de Coamo (Puerto Rico-BSN, starting five).


NBL Round 2 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Jiangsu - Ningxia Hanas 113-97

The game was mostly controlled by Jiangsu. Ningxia Hanas managed to win second period 26-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 37-of-48 free shots (77.1 percent) during the game. Jiangsu outrebounded Ningxia Hanas 48-33 including 16 on the offensive glass. 33 personal fouls committed by Ningxia Hanas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. U.S. Virgin Isl.-Antiguan guard Julius Hodge (201-83, college: N.Carolina St.) had a triple-double by scoring 18 points, 20 rebounds and 13 assists to lead the charge for the winners and American forward Vincent Hunter (208-84, college: Arkansas) chipped in 27 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. Four Jiangsu players scored in double figures. Nigerian forward Ndudi Ebi (206-84, college: Arizona) responded with 34 points (!!!), 7 rebounds and 8 blocks and American guard Craig Winder (188-84, college: Texas, agency: Prossin Sports Management) scored 33 points (!!!). Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Jiangsu: H.Vincent 27+13reb, S.XianLing 21+2reb+3ast, H.Julius 18+20reb+13ast, N.QingQing 12+1reb, F.Xin 11+1reb, W.YanQing 8
Ningxia Hanas: E.Ndudi 34+7reb, W.Craig 33+4reb+2ast, M.Yansong 11+7reb+2ast, Y.Kaifu 6+2reb, D.XiaoWei 6+2reb, W.Sze 5+7reb
gschID: 132930


Changan Group - Hebei 92-71

The game without a history. Changan Group led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Changan Group forced 19 Hebei turnovers. American center Darnell Cox (211-85, college: Miss.Valley St., agency: Court Side) had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and forward XiaTi Re (202-89) chipped in 17 points (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) during the contest. Four Changan Group players scored in double figures. Forward ZhenHu Zhang (195-88) responded with 11 points and 9 assists and power forward Yiding Li (206-81) scored 16 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Changan Group: C.Darnell 24+10reb, R.XiaTi 17+4reb+1ast, S.Jian 16+2reb, S.Lei 14+5reb+3ast, L.Peng 7+3reb+3ast, S.Nick 6+2reb+5ast
Hebei: L.Yiding 16+6reb+1ast, W.Jian 11+2reb+2ast, Z.ZhenHu 11+3reb+9ast, Z.GuoDong 9+6reb+4ast, W.XinLei 8+1reb, W.Runpeng 7+2reb
gschID: 132927


Whampoa - Guangzhou FM 100-87

The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 31-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Whampoa made 32-of-42 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game, while Guangzhou FM only scored eleven points from the stripe. 33 personal fouls committed by Guangzhou FM helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Eric Hicks (198-83, college: Cincinnati) had a double-double by scoring 25 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Alan Wiggins (206-85, college: USF) chipped in 16 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. Freije responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds and guard Justin Gray (188-84, college: Wake Forest) scored 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Whampoa and four Guangzhou FM players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Whampoa: H.Eric 25+11reb+2ast, Y.Ning 19+1reb+1ast, W.Alan 16+13reb+2ast, W.Jing 16+4reb+1ast, J.Lei 12+5reb+2ast, Y.ZhiYong 6+1ast
Guangzhou FM: M.Freije 20+12reb+1ast, G.Justin 20+5reb+4ast, L.Dapeng 17+4reb+4ast, Y.Liang 10+2reb, L.Xuesong 9+5reb+3ast, S.TianGang 5+2reb
gschID: 132928


Sichuan - ShenYang 104-78

The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 15-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 104-78. Sichuan dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to ShenYang's 44. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American forward Alexander McLean (203-85, agency: Strategic Sports) had a double-double by scoring 28 points and 16 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import guard T.J. Bannister (180-84, college: Liberty) chipped in 22 points and 11 assists during the contest. Sichuan's coach Joseph Stiebing felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard ChengLong Duan (192-88) responded with 22 points and 5 assists and forward Peng Yao (205-86) scored 21 points and 5 rebounds. Four ShenYang players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Sichuan: M.Alexander 28+16reb+2ast, B.T.J. 22+4reb+11ast, C.Ma 10+3reb+2ast, L.Peng 8+1reb, S.TianNong 6+2reb, Y.Hao 6+1reb+1ast
ShenYang: D.ChengLong 22+2reb+5ast, Y.Peng 21+5reb+2ast, S.DeShuai 15+4reb+1ast, C.XiaoDong 11+12reb+2ast, Z.JunXiong 9+6reb+2ast,
gschID: 132929




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  CROATIA   


Zabok keeps Sasa Jankovic for the next season - by Eurobasket News
Zabok announced signing of a one-year contract extension with Sasa Jankovic (204-F-84). The 26-year-old power forward joined Zabok in January this year. He appeared 23 times in the league averaging 7.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.3 assists. Jankovic started last season with Kvarner. There he had 5.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 9 games. In 2009/2010 season Sasa Jankovic was a member of Torpedo Rijeka. They competed in A2 league. Jankovic already played for Zabok and it was in 2008/09. At that time he had 4.6 ppg and 3 rpg for 27 games. Sasa Jankovic also has experience from Slovakian teams Nitra, Levice and Dolny Kubin. With Dolny Kubin he exploded with 15.1 ppg and 5.8 rpg in 34 games.

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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Arvydas Eitutavicius is the last Piece for BK Prostejov - by Surujh Roopnarine
Lithuania once again serves as a talent pool for BK Prostejov as the club has signed 28-year old point guard Arvydas Eitutavicius (188-G-82, college: American) for the 2011-12 Mattoni NBL season. Coming off of two successful seasons which featured shooting guard Benas Veikalas (192-G-83, college: Metro St.) and forward Andrius Slezas (200-F-75), both from Lithuania, the management of Prostejov has gone back to the well in hoping that Eitutavicius will bring the same type of production as his fellow countrymen. The 6-2 Eitutavicius, from Klaipeda, Lithuania who attended American University in the USA, spent last season in Greece playing for Iraklis Thessaloniki. In 24 games he averaged 7.5 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists while shooting 37.2% from the field and 27.2% from three. After his NCAA career, Eitutavicius played in Spain, his native Lithuania as well as France, where he helped Cholet Basket to the 2009-10 Championship. A reserve player for Lithuania at the 2010 World Championships, Eitutavicius is a solid ball-handler capable of scoring off his jumper as well as drives to the basket. This is where he can strive as he is an excellent free-throw shooter, finishing sixth in the NCAA during his senior season at American (90.5%). He will team with Matej Venta at the point guard position for Prostejov which has fully re-vamped their roster and are in the midst of off-season conditioning and training.

Czech Republic lost the scrimmage in Rapla - by Eurobasket News
Estonia NT-Czech Republic NT 92:76

Estonia cruise past Czech Republic in Rapla in a friendly game between two sides. The hosts won 92:76 controlling the entire game. The teams meet again on Friday
Gregor Arbet made three baskets in a row to take the hosts ahead 8:2 with 3 minutes played. Three-pointers by Sten-Timmu Sokk and Gert Dorbek (194-G-85) had Estonians going - 18:7 and the 1st quarter ended 22:12 after Lubos Barton dropped a long range shot. Estonia won the second period 26-20 and had 48:32 at the halftime. Moreover Estonia made a 17:0 in the middle of the quarter and led 69:35 in 25th minute. After 33-15 in the third period the hosts reached 81:47. Czech Republic bounced back with 29-11 in the last quarter but there were too far to tie the game.
Kristjan Kangur (202-F-82) paced all the winners with 22 points and Janar Talts (205-C-83) notched 15. Gert Dorbek netted 13, while Joosep Toome (202-F-85) added 10. Pavel Houska (201-F-84) ended up with 12 points in the losing effort while Lubosh Barton and Pavel Slezak (186-G-84) delivered 11 each.

Estonia NT: Kristjan Kangur 22, Janar Talts 15, Gert Dorbek 13, Joosep Toome 10
Czech Republic NT: Pavel Houska 12, Lubosh Barton 11, Pavel Slezak 11


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Assignia Manresa wants to return Josh Asselin - by Eurobasket News
Assignia Manresa wants to return their former player Josh Asselin (211-C/F-78, agency: Duran International, college: Michigan). The American/Dominican big guy spent last season with Asefa Estudiantes Madrid. He played 32 games in ACB registering 7.5 ppg and 4.1 rpg. Asselin also added 10.3 ppg and 3.4 rpg in 14 EuroCup games. Season 2009/10 Josh Asselin split between Cajasol Sevilla and Murcia. With Murcia he had 7.9 ppg and 6 rpg for 16 league games. Asselin was a member of Manresa from 2006 to 2009. He helped them win LEB Gold championship in 2007 and of course the promotion to ACB. All three years Asselin was one of the best Manresa players. He had about 14.5 pg and 6 rpg in three years. In the past, Josh Asselin played for Pau-Orthez, Caceres, Cantabria Lobos and Clermont. He also played for the Dominican National Team in 2005 and 2006.

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  ESTONIA   


Czechs get revenge from Estonia - by Janar
Czech Republic won the friendly game against Estonia in Jhvi 77:71, tying the mini-series to 1:1. Pavel Houska (201-F-84) led the winners with 23 points and 11 rebounds, making 11/15 from the field. Lubo Barton added 17+10, Pavel Slezak 12 and Jakub Kudlacek 11 points. Czechs dominates the rebounds 39:25, taking advantage from the fact that Janar Talts did not play, after yesterday's knee injury. Kristo Saage (184-G-85) scored 22 points for the hosts, adding 8 steals. Joosep Toome added 18 points and 7 rebounds. Kristjan Kangur missed all 6 shots and was left scoreless.

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  EUROCUP   


Jarvis Varnado officially signed with Jerusalem - by David Pick
Posted: August 12, 2011, 15:52 PM

High flying former Mississippi St. graduate and defensive stopper Jarvis Varnado (Agent: Zeev Gross), officially signed a one-year deal with Hapoel Jerusalem. This, after Varnado tweeted earlier this week 'Bout to sign a deal in Israel with Hapoel Jerusalem God is good.'

'Eurobaket' understood over a month ago that the talented forward's representatives already begun the official negotiations of contract terms with Jerusalem and it seemed to be only a matter of time for the deal to be finalized. Head coach Oded Katash is known to be highly impressed with the player's athletic skills and defensive abilities.

In 2011, the shot blocking machine became the NCAA All-Time best shot blocker. Also, he is the second player (after David Robinson) in Div. 1 history to have passed the 1,000 points, 1,000 rebounds and 500 blocked shots in career. The funny thing about it is that despite being drafted by the Miami Heat with the 41st pick, Varnado is yet to officially wear an NBA jersey.

The SEC All-Tournaments MVP in 09' and All-SEC 1st Team player in both 09' and 10' graduated school with double-double averages of 13.8ppg, 10.3rpg and 4.7bpg (!!). Last season Varnado played in Italy's Div. 2 for Tuscany Tissue Pistoia. After recording seven season double-double games, he posted season averages of 15.4ppg, 8.9rpg and
finished first in the league in shot blocks with 3.1bpg.

Hapoel is still negotiating contract terms with both Timmy Bowers and NBA shooting guard Roger Mason who both previously played in J-M. The N.Y. Knicks shooter demanded his contract has an NBA out where at first the team was against the idea, however, recently things turned around and Mason will likely close a monthly deal.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

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  EUROLEAGUE   


Cholet extends coach Kunter - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Erman Kunter officially signed contract extension with Cholet. It means that the Turkish specialist will stay with the club until the end of 2012/13 season. Kanter took over Cholet in 2006. He helped them win Semaine des As Cup in 2008. Next year Cholet reached EuroChallenge Finals and they were ProA champions in 2010. That same year Cholet also was the SuperCup winner. Last season, Cholet was the regular season champ in ProA. They reached Playoff Finals later but lost against Nancy in thriller. Before Cholet, Erman Kunter worked one year with ASVEL. He already coach Cholet and it was in 2003/04 season. Kunter also has experience from Galatasaray and Darussafaka.

Mickael Gelabale moves to Belgium, Charleroi - by Eurobasket News
Mickael Gelabale (201-F-83) will continue his career in Belgium. The French National Team member signed a one-year deal with Charleroi. Gelabale spent last season with ASVEL. He played 36 games for them in ProA collecting 14.2 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 2.1 apg. He also appeared 6 times in EuroCup adding 12.2 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 2.8 apg. In Euroleague qualifications Gelabale averaged 10.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists in four games. Season 2009/10, Mickael Gelabale spent with Cholet Basket helping them to win the ProA title. He had 10.9 ppg and 4.3 rpg for 28 games. Gelabale also has experience from the Los Angeles D-Fenders (D-League), Seattle Supersonics and Real Madrid. With the Sonics he had 4.6 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 70 NBA games in 2006/07. A year after that he added 4.3 ppg and 1.5 rpg for 39 games. Mickael Gelabale won Spanish league titles with Real Madrid in 2005. That same year he won the Bronze with French NT at the EuroBasket in Belgrade.

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Alexey Zhukanenko is out of Eurobasket 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Alexey Zhukanenko (210-F-86, agency: Alti Sport) is out of Eurobasket 2011 and can not help the Russian National team. The player has an ankle injury and will not be able to join the team. Viktor Khryapa will take his spot in the friendly game tonight against Latvia.
Alexey Zhukanenko belonged to Unics since year 2002 up to 2009. In his last season there he averaged 3.2ppg, 2.1rpg in EuroCup and in Russian League after 12 games had 2.2ppg, 1.8rpg. In 2009-2010 moved to Dynamo Moscow (A Superleague) and in EuroCup improved to 6.0ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 73.3%, while in Russian League after 27 games showed 8.8ppg, 3.5rpg, FGP: 67.2%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 66.7%. The last season for Dynamo Moscow (PBL, starting five) had high 17.5ppg, 8.5rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0spg at the EuroCup Qualifying Round and in EuroChallenge showed 14.6ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 60.0%, FT: 66.7%. In Russian League after 25 games he averaged 12.7ppg, Reb-2 (7.4rpg), FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.5%. The season 2011-2012 Alexey Zhukanenko will play for BC Khimky Moscow Region (PBL, starting five).


Standings Div.B (Men)
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Holland3-0
2. Austria2-1
3. Estonia1-2
4. Luxembourg.0-3
Group B
1. Azerbaijan.4-1
2. Sweden4-1
3. Romania3-1
4. Belarus1-4
5. Albania0-5
Group C
1. Czech Rep.3-0
2. Slovakia2-1
3. Switzerlan.1-2
4. Cyprus0-3


Standings Div.A (Men)
Standings
Group A
1. U.Kingdom0-0
2. Spain0-0
3. Lithuania0-0
4. Poland0-0
5. Turkey0-0
Group B
1. France0-0
2. Germany0-0
3. Israel0-0
4. Italy0-0
5. Latvia0-0
6. Serbia0-0
Group C
1. Bosnia0-0
2. Croatia0-0
3. Greece0-0
4. FYR Macedo.0-0
5. Montenegro.0-0
Group D
1. Belgium0-0
2. Bulgaria0-0
3. Georgia0-0
4. Russia0-0
5. Slovenia0-0
6. Ukraine0-0
Group Qualification
1. Finland1-0
2. Portugal1-0
3. Hungary0-2


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  FINLAND   


EuroBasket Additional Qualifying Round. Finland silence Hungary in Szolnok - by Eurobasket News
Hungary - Finland 73:75

Finland celebrated the first win at the 2011 EuroBasket Additional Qualifying Round. They stunned Hungary on the road in the opener. Teemu Rannikko (189-G-80) stepped up with 16 points and 4 assists to pace the visitors. Hungary fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Finland opened the game with seven points in a row. But Hungary quickly rebounded answering with eight straight points of their own. The teams exchanged baskets in a high-flying first term as Hungary eked out a 24:23 lead after ten minutes. Finland used a 6:0 run midway through the second frame to surge ahead. Hungary erased the deficit and tied things up at 37. Akos Horvath (194-G/F-81) and Bader gave the home team a 42:37 lead at the start of the second half. Finland went on a 15:3 run in the quarter to establish a 61:49 advantage late in the period. The visitors maintained the lead for some time before Hungary triggered a 15:0 run to post a 68:65 lead with just over five minutes remaining. The teams were tied at 73 with just over two minutes left in regulation. A barrage of misses was snapped by a layup from Gerald Lee (208-F-87, college: ODU) as he put Finland in charge. Obie Trotter (186-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Alabama A&M) had a chance to save the game for the hosts but missed a three-pointer. Gerald Lee produced 14 points, while Kimmo Muurinen (202-F-81, college: UALR) provided 12 points in the victory. Akos Horvath answered with 15 points for Hungary. Obie Trotter had 12 points, 7 rebounds and 6 steals, while Akos Keller (206-F/C-89, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) added 12 points in the loss.

Hungary: Akos Horvath 15, Obie Trotter 12, Akos Keller 12
Finland: Teemu Rannikko 16, Gerald Lee 14, Kimmo Muurinen 12


EUROBASKET: Finland won the thriller - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Additional Qualifying Round contest tonight in Szolnok, Hungary: Hungary vs Finland 73-75 (37-37). Quarters: 24-23, 13-14, 15-24, 21-14. It didn't have to be a thriller, but
Finland made it too close and exiting. The visitors had a 53-65 lead in the beginning of the 4th quarter, but in 3,5 minutes (34:32) Hungary was leading 68-65! The hosts had
a 15-0 run and Finland had big troubles. Anyway Finland came back to the game and the contest was tied 73-73 and 2:09 minutes to go. Hungary didn't score anymore, Finland made the winning bucket with two seconds left on the clock. Petteri Koponen (193-G-88) gave the assist and Gerald Lee Jr (208-F-87, college: ODU) lay-up was good.
Hungary: Akos Horvath 15/4a, Obie Trotter 12/7, Akos Keller 12/7, Peter Lorant 12, Adam Hanga 10/7. 1 - 68,0% (17/25), 2 - 43,3% (26/60), 3 - 26,7% (4/15). R: 23+10=33. TO: 18. Finland: Teemu Rannikko 16/4a, Gerald Lee 14/5, Kimmo Muurinen 12, Petteri Koponen 10/5a. 1 - 89,5% (17/19), 2 - 45,6% (26/57), 3 - 26,1% (6/23). R: 19+7=26. TO: 14.
Next game: Finland vs Portugal on August 15 in Helsinki, Finland.

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  FRANCE   


Nic Wise heads to STB Le Havre - by Eurobasket News
Nic Wise (178-G-87, college: Arizona) heads to STB Le Havre for 2011/2012 season. The American Guard spent a year in Germany before heading to France.
In 2006-2007 he started for Arizona (NCAA) and in 22 games averaged 1.9ppg. In his last season there Nic improved to 14.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 87.8%. In 2010-2011 moved to Telekom Baskets Bonn (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five). The Telekom Baskets Bonn change a veteran with Jared Jordan and found a BEKO BBL rookie with Nic Wise for the playmaking duties. Wise had played for the USA U-18, U-20 and U-21 National teams. He won the bronze in Dallas at the Global games in 2006 and was an All-Pac-10 1st Team 2010 with Arizona.
Last season he averaged 12.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 20.0% in EuroChallenge. In German League after 33 games he showed 13.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 86.0%.


Mickael Gelabale moves to Belgium, Charleroi - by Eurobasket News
Mickael Gelabale (201-F-83) will continue his career in Belgium. The French National Team member signed a one-year deal with Charleroi. Gelabale spent last season with ASVEL. He played 36 games for them in ProA collecting 14.2 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 2.1 apg. He also appeared 6 times in EuroCup adding 12.2 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 2.8 apg. In Euroleague qualifications Gelabale averaged 10.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists in four games. Season 2009/10, Mickael Gelabale spent with Cholet Basket helping them to win the ProA title. He had 10.9 ppg and 4.3 rpg for 28 games. Gelabale also has experience from the Los Angeles D-Fenders (D-League), Seattle Supersonics and Real Madrid. With the Sonics he had 4.6 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 70 NBA games in 2006/07. A year after that he added 4.3 ppg and 1.5 rpg for 39 games. Mickael Gelabale won Spanish league titles with Real Madrid in 2005. That same year he won the Bronze with French NT at the EuroBasket in Belgrade.

Cholet extends coach Kunter - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Erman Kunter officially signed contract extension with Cholet. It means that the Turkish specialist will stay with the club until the end of 2012/13 season. Kanter took over Cholet in 2006. He helped them win Semaine des As Cup in 2008. Next year Cholet reached EuroChallenge Finals and they were ProA champions in 2010. That same year Cholet also was the SuperCup winner. Last season, Cholet was the regular season champ in ProA. They reached Playoff Finals later but lost against Nancy in thriller. Before Cholet, Erman Kunter worked one year with ASVEL. He already coach Cholet and it was in 2003/04 season. Kunter also has experience from Galatasaray and Darussafaka.

Ryvon Covile agreed with JSF Nanterre - by Eurobasket News
Ryvon Covile (206-C-84, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Detroit Mercy) agreed with JSF Nanterre for the next season. After half season with Panionios ON Telecoms Athens, the American Center comes back to France.
In 2002-2003 he joined Detroit Mercy (NCAA) and in his debut year averaged 2.5ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP: 56.9%, FT: 50.0%. In his last season there he improved to 13.7ppg, RebNCAA-7 (10.6rpg), 1.4bpg, FGP: 56.4%, FT: 62.3%. In 2007-2008 moved to Alerta Cantabria Lobos (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five) and in Spanish League after 17 games showed 10.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 2FGP: 53.0%, FT: 58.0%. In February 2008 moved to Gilboa/Afula/Migdal Haemek (Israel-Premier League) and had 5.9ppg, 2.6rpg, 2FGP: 56.7%, FT: 70.4%.
Two seasons after spent with Entente Orleans 45 (France-ProA, starting five) and in the second one debuted in Euroleague. In 14 games he averaged 9.2ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 59.6%, FT: 62.2%, while in French League after 32 games Ryvon Covile's stats read 9.4ppg, 4.8rpg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 62.9%. The season 2010-2011 started for Le Mans Sarthe Basket (France-ProA) and in French League had 4.4ppg, 3.4rpg, but in December 2010 signed at Panionios ON Telecoms Athens (Greece-A1, starting five). After 17 games he averaged 13.1ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.9%, FT: 57.3%.


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  GABON   


Stephane Lasme joins Obradoiro CAB - by Eurobasket Center
Obradoiro CAB agreed terms with 29-year old Gabonese forward Stephane Lasme (203-F-82, college: Massachusetts). Lasme played most recently at Maine Red Claws (D-League) in the U.S. While playing 10 games for Maine RC last season his stats were: 7.0ppg and 6.0rpg. He tried to sign in Europe last season. But despite negotiations with Spartak St.Petersburg in Russia went well, Lasme was unable to join the club due to technical issues regarding his green card application in the United States. Then he tried to make Boston Celtics roster before being cut, which ended with him playing in D-League. Lasme is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Israel, Russia and Serbia. The last successful season was two years ago while Lasme played for Maccabi Tel-Aviv in Israel. He helped the team to win Israeli Cup and Israeli Regular Season, before they lost in the finals. Macacbi made that year to Euroleague Quarterfinals.

By Eurobasket Data Center



Stephane Lasme heads to Spain - by Eurobasket News
Stephane Lasme (203-F-82, college: Massachusetts) will continue his career in Spain. The Gabonese power forward signed a deal with Obradoiro CAB. He spent last season with the Maine Red Claws. Actually, Lasme supposed to play for Spartak St.Petersburg, but was unable to join the club in Russia due to technical issues regarding his green card application in the United States and then he moved to Boston Celtics. However, they parted ways before the any official game. Lasme joined the Red Claws in March averaging 7 points and 6 rebounds for 10 games in D-League. Season 2009/10, Stephane Lasme spent with Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv. They won the Israeli Cup together. Before that, Lasme played one season for Partizan Belgrade winning three trophies with them (Adriatic league, Serbian league, Serbian Cup). Lasme graduated at the University of Massachusetts in 2007.

*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   


Tornike Shengelia will remain in Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Tornike Shengelia (207-F-91) will remain in Belgium for the next season. The Georgia player however spent last season on loan to VOO Verviers-Pepinster, but now will head back to Spirou Charleroi.
In 2010-2011 for VOO Verviers-Pepinster (Belgium-D1) his stats read 6.5ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 13.0%, FT: 75.0%. Recently his Georgia became the winner of the U20 European Championship in Division B in Sarajevo. The team overcame Estonia 79:70 for the Gold medals in the tournament. Tornike Shengelia was awarded MVP of the tournament as he erupted with 26 points and 10 rebounds. Moreover he received Eurobasket.com Belgian League All-Bosmans Team -11, Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Division B Best Player -11, Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Division B Best Forward -11, Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Division B 1st Team -11. At the European Championships U20 Division B in Sarajevo (Bosnia) -11 after 9 games he had 29.9ppg, Reb-2 (12.0rpg), 2.6apg, 1.9spg, Blocks-2 (2.3bpg), FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 75.0%.


*****************************************************
  GERMANY   


BBC Bayreuth Bring In 2003 Boston Celtic Draft Pick Brandon Hunter - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
BBC Bayreuth like ex NBA centers as last season it was Jared Reiner and this season it is Brandon Hunter (201-F-80, college: Ohio) BBC Bayreuth that will play their second season in the Beko BBL after having a long pause form the big show and will try to remain in the Beko BBL this season have brought in heavy talent with the long awaited new big man with Brandon Hunter (201-F-80, college: Ohio). Hunter who had been set since a week was officialy announced as the new player today is a 30 year old 201 cm forward and anothe rone of the many good ballers from from Cincinnati, Ohio. An incredibly strong player who plays with great skill as well as heart. One of the top players in Italy A-1 basketball and a veteran of the NBA, Brandon is an excellent finisher and imposing force around the basket on both ends of the floor. Last season, he played for Aliaga Petkim (Turkey-TBL): 19 games: 10.9ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.1%, FT: 60.4%; in Mar.'11 moved to BK Ventspils (Latvia-LBL): Latvian League: 18 games: 11.5ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 56.1%, FT: 48.8%; EuroChallenge: 3 games: 11.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.3apg; Baltic League: 4 games: 12.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.3apg. Hunter willpose a big threat under the basket with Ekene Ibekwe. Hunter started his basketball career in 1999 at Ohio Univ. (NCAA) where he played with Beko BBL player Steve Esterkamp and Patrick Flomo and in his senior year played 30 games: 21.5ppg, 12.6rpg, 2.6apg. In 2003, he was drafted by the Boston Celtics (NBA,2rd (56). In 2003-2004, he started his professional basketball career in the NBA with the Boston Celtics (NBA): in Oct.'03 was placed on the injured list: Regular Season: 36 games: 3.5ppg, 3.3rpg; Play-Offs: 3 games: 0.7ppg. In 2004-2005, he played for the Boston Celtics (NBA), at the end of Oct.'04 moved to Orlando Magic (NBA), but very shortly was placed on the injured list, activated in Nov.'04, but next month was again placed on the injured list with a hyperextended right elbow: 31games: 3.1ppg, 2.2rpg. In 2005-2006, he had a try-out at Houston Rockets (NBA), then played at Sioux Falls Skyforce (CBA, starting five): 25 games: 22.0ppg, 12.0rpg, 1.6apg, FG: 58.7%, FT: 64%, in Jan.'06 went to Panathinaikos Athens (Greece-A1): Greek League: 2 games: 7.5ppg, 4.5rpg; Euroleague: 2 games: 3.5ppg, 2.5rpg, but got injured next month and was released, in March'06 signed at Carpisa Napoli (Italy-SerieA): 16 games: 4.4ppg, 4.2rpg.

In 2006-2007, he returned to Europe and would play numerous years in Italy. In 2006-2007, he played for TDShop.it Livorno (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 25 games: 14.8ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.2apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 55.6%. In 2007-2008, he played for Angelico Biella (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 31 games: 12.9ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.6spg, 2FGP:49.7%, 3PT:33.3%, FT:66.7%. In 2008-2009, he played for Premiata Montegranaro (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 30 games: 13.3ppg, Reb-2 (9.5rpg), 1.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 66.5%. In 2009-2010, he played for Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem (Israel-Premier League): EuroCup: 14 games: 9.2ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 59.5%, FT: 74.4%; Israeli League: 26 games: 8.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 57.8%, FT: 70.5%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been All-MAC Freshmen Team -00
All-MAC 1st Team -01, 02, 03, MAC Tournament Semifinals -03, CBA All-Star Game -06 (selected but DNP went to play overases), Italian SerieA Semifinals -06, Puerto Rican BSN Champion -08, Puerto Rican BSN Island Group Champion -08, Israeli Winner Cup Winner -10, EuroCup Quarterfinals -10, Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup Honorable Mention -10
Israeli Premier League Semifinals -10, Israeli Premier League Regular Season Runner-Up -10, Baltic League Semifinals -11, EuroChallenge Quarterfinals -11, Eurobasket.com All-Latvian League 2nd Team -11, Eurobasket.com Latvian League All-Imports Team -11, Latvian League Regular Season Champion -11, and Latvian League Finalist -11

Selim Mulic Remains With ASC 46 Goettingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
ASC 46 Goettingen have secured one of their most important players for the upcoming season by keeping Selim Mulic (203-F-76). Mulic is a 35 year old 203cm forward from Bosnia-Herzegovina that will be playing his 12th season in Germany. He has vast basketball experience in Germany having played a season in the Beko BBL and seven years in the second Bundesliga. Last season, he avergaed 17,4ppg and was the second best scorer in the Regionaliger north. He hit 49 three pointers in 19 games and had a 83% free throw percentage. 'It isnt only his ability to hit the three pointer that makes him so valuable for us, but the decisions he makes and his routine he shows that can give the young talented players a chance to learn from him', stated ASC 46 Gttingen head coach Marjo Heinemann. Mulic started his basketball career in 1997 for Celik Zenica where he played until 2000. He has been in Germany since then playing for Gottingen. In this time, he played a season in the Beko BBL in 2007-2008 playing 26 games: 5.2ppg, 2FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 44.3%, FT: 63.6%. many Beko BBL clubs will not forget his nasty three pointer that he often used to anger teams. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Bosnian U22 National Team -97, Bosnian National Team -98, Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga North All-Bosmans Team -07,and Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga North Honorable Mention -11

Source: ASC46 Goettingen

Brandon Chappell takes his game to Lich - by Moritz Korff
Brandon Chappell (183-G-83, college: Lamar) is back in Germany. The 27-year-old guard from Beaumont, Texas will run the point for Licher BasketBaeren (2. Bundesliga Pro B) in the 2011-2012 season. Chappell has three years of Pro A basketball under his belt and played for the Southeast Texas Mavericks in this past season and captured the ABA championship. He started his pro career in Bayreuth in 2007 and spent the following two years with TV Langen.

Soyer back in action for Weissenhorn, Hagner arrives from Freiburg - by Moritz Korff
BG Illertal-Weissenhorn (2. Bundesliga Pro B) unveiled two newcomers to its roster for the upcoming season today. Veteran Mirko Soyer (212-C-78) will join back the squad after a one year-break, while Gene Hagner (190-G-83) transfers from Freiburg to Weissenhorn.
Soyer, formerly known as Mirko Buljubasic, is 33 years of age and a native of Croatia. He already played for Weissenhorn from November 2005 until 2007 and from 2008 to 2010 and dominated at the Regionalliga level. In his only Pro B season he averaged 12.4 points and 5.3 rebounds for the Panthers.
Hagner appeared in 26 Pro A games for USC Freiburg during the 2010-11 season, posting 3.6 points per outing.

Basketball Experience With Jay Thomas And Basketball Youth Come To The BIS Baskets Speyer - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
German Regionaliga team Bis Baskets Speyer Have goten two ex Beko BBl players for their roster with Jay Thomas (193-F-79, college: Cent.Washington) And Julius Haag (195-G-90) Together the two Germans have 144 Beko BBL games under their belt with Thomas having 142 and Haag 2. Thomas is a 32 year old 193cm forward that was born in Fort Belvoir. He played five seasons in the Beko BBl for The walter Tigers Tuebingen, three years in the second Bundesliga for teams like FC Bayern Munich and USC Heidelberg and in the Regionaliga for TG Sandhausen. he also played in the States for : Cent.Washington (NCAA2) in 2003-2004. Julius Haag is a 21 year old 195cm guard. He started his basketball career for TSV Noerdlingen junior team in 2005. He played two Beko BBl games as a 17 year old in 2008-2009 for the Nordliingen Giants. He played for USC Freiburg the last two seasons playing 28 PRO A games. Both forwards are a win for us. They will give the team additional quality', stressed BIS Baskets Speyer manager Gerd Kopf.

Source: BIS Baskets Speyer

The EWE Baskets Oldenburg Get Big Man Jannik Freese - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

After toiling around in Hessen with traditional team the Giessen 46ers for 3 years, Jannik Freese (211-F/C-86) now heads to 2009 Beko BBL champion The EWE Baskets Oldenburg and will play together with a total different caliber of players like ex NBA player Bobby Brown. Freese is a 24 year old 211cm center from Oldenburg, but spends his summers in Washington DC. Last season with theGiessen 46ers, Freese played 31 games: 4.1ppg, 2.7rpg. 'Our big positions are now well complete.Jannik had reliable play with Giessen', stressed EWE Baskets Oldenburg head coach Predrag Krunic. It also is always nice to have a player that comes from the region. 'It is a good thing to have brought back a native Oldenburger. Jannik has got Bundesliga experience in the last years and will fit well to our big men', stressed EWE Baskets Oldenburg CEO Herman Schuller.

Freese started his basketball career in 2004 playing high school ball for Northwestern in Washington DC. He then came back and played for SG FT/MTV Braunschweig (2.Bundesliga) from 2005-2008 playing 86 second Bundesliga games and also playing for the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig (1.Bundesliga): 6 games: 0.5ppg. In 2008, he moved to the LTi Giessen 46ers (1.Bundesliga): 15 games: 2.4ppg, 2.3rpg; also played at LTi Lich (ProA, starting five): 15 games: 17.1ppg, 8.5rpg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 67.4%. In his 3 years in Giessen, he played 76 Beko BBL games. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been German Bundesliga Rookies All-Star Game -06, German U20 National Team -06, European Championships U20 in Izmir (Turkey) -06: 7 games: 3.4ppg, 2.0rpg, German A2 National Team -07, 09, German University National Team -09, and World University Games in Belgrade (Serbia) -09: 7 games: 6.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 57.1%, FT: 83.3%. Oldenburg now has 10 players on their roster with
Bobby Brown, Christopher Razis, Kenny Hasbrouck, Dominik Bahiense de Mello, Rickey Paulding, Ronnie Burrell, Milan Majstorovic, Adam Chubb, Robin Smeulders and Jannik Freese.

Source: EWE Baskets Oldenburg

Andreas Buchert Moves To Erdgas Ehingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
In the last years, Andreas Buechert (208-C-87, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Winthrop) has recieved numerous basketball experience playing in the NCAA and for a few Beko BBL teams with Eisbaeren Bremerhaven and Phoenix Hagen, but now takes a step back to the PRO A to Erdgas Ehingen. Buechert is a 24 year old 208cm center from Trier, Germany. He is an athletic inside player who can defend both inside positions because of his strength and his quickness, he runs the floor very well and is explosive around the basket, very strong and agressive rebounder on both ends of the floor and defends the lane very well because of his shot blocking skills. Last season, the young German played for Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (1.Bundesliga): 1 game: 0pts, 1reb, 1ast, 1block, in Dec.'10 moved to Phoenix Hagen (1.Bundesliga): 9 games: 3.3ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.6bpg; left in Feb. '11. 'I am happy that we could get a very ambitious German player. On account of his athletcism, he has the potential to become one of the top rebounders and shot blockers in the league. We want to help him develop further so he can make the jump to the Beko BBL', stressed Ehingen head coach Ralph Junge.

Buechert started his basketball career in 2005 with Tallahasse CC (JUCO) and in his second season played 18 games: 6.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg. He then transfered to Winthrop (NCAA), where he played from 2007-2010 and in his senior year played 33 games: 5.7ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.6%, FT: 44.6%. He played a total of 65 NCAA games. 'I am making the step to the PRO A to get more playing time and to improve and establish myself as a German basketball player. I decided to come here on accound of the strong coaching team of Junge/Czerny', added Andreas Buechert.Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been NJCAA Tournament Finalist -06, Big South Conf. Regular Season Runner-Up -08,Big South Conf. Tournament Winner -08, 10, Big South Conf. All-Tournament Team -08, and German 2.Bundesliga Pro B (Group North) Regular Season Champion -11


Source: Erdgas Ehingen

Germany surprised the hosts of the Spor Toto World Cup - by Eurobasket News
Germany NT-Turkey NT 79:72

Germany surprised the hosts of the Spor Toto World Cup in Day 2 of the tournament. The team even without Nowitski and Kaman edged Turkey 79:72 for the second straight win.
The score was tied at 13:13 in the middle of the first period, while Germany took 21:20 at the end of it. Philip Zwiener and Lucca Staiger created a 7-0 run for 28:20, while Germany won the first half 43:35. They needed another 8-0 run to take 63:50 on the third period. Hedo Turkoglu (206-F-79) managed to close the period at 63:54. Omer Onan (194-G-78) later cut it to 67:60, while Turkey pulled back to 71:68. Baris Ermis reduced to 76:72, but Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) made two free throws for 78:72. Turkey fouled again and Robin Benzing (208-F-89) brought the final result in the game.
Tibor Pleiss (214-F/C-89) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 8 rebounds, while Robin Benzing added 16 points and 8 rebounds. Heiko Schaffartzik brought 15 and Schwetheim netted 7.

Germany NT: Tibor Pleiss 20+8 rebs, Robin Benzing 16+8 rebs, Heiko Schaffartzik 15
Turkey NT: Omer Onan 22, Ersan Ilyasova (207-F-87) 10, Hedo Turkoglu 10


Coach Travnizek returns to Wolfenbuettel - by Moritz Korff
2. Bundesliga Pro B side Herzoege Wolfenbuettel has made it official: Benjamin Travnizek returns to head coaching ranks in Wolfenbuettel. The 30-year-old Salzgitter native took over at the Herzoege helm in December 2009, but accepted an offer to serve as a coach assistant at Nuernberger BC for the following season. However, Travnizek decided to return to Lower Saxony due to personal reasons after one season in Nuernberg.
During pre-season practice Travnizek will have Wolfenbuettel center-idol Olaf Roesler (202-F/C-70) by his side. The former Bundesliga player is going to work with the bigs.

Ryon Howard moves to Bochum - Cham Korbi receives German passport - by Moritz Korff
With the signing of Ryon Howard (198-F-84, college: Sacred Heart) the Bochum Astro Stars finally have to embrace the role as the early favorite to win the 1. Regionalliga West title. The 26-year-old forward makes the move from Rhoendorf to Bochum and is the sixth new player. Howard comes off a Pro A season with the Dragons. He averaged 10 points and 6.2 rebounds per contest.
In his first year overseas, the 2009-10 season, Howard helped BSV Wulfen moving up to the Pro B and was named Eurobasket.com All-RLW Defensive Player of the Year back then.

Meanwhile, Tunisia born Cham Korbi (188-G-83) received a German passport just recently. He has been a star at the RLW level over the past years and returned to Bochum coming from Recklinghausen this summer.

Harley Fuller Set To Play For BG Illertal - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Its not official yet, but word has leaked that Harley Fuller (185-G-88, college: Molloy) will make his debut in the German PRO B this season with BG Illertal. Fuller is a 22 year old 185cm point guard from Gloversville, New York. Last season, he played his rookie season as a professional for TuS Treis-Karden (Germany-Regionalliga): 16.3ppg, 6prg, Assists-1 (6apg), FGP: 56.0%, 3Pts: 40.0%. He played at three different colleges gaining experience at Cobleskill Junior College, Florida Intern. (NCAA): 23 games: 1.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 41.0%, 3Pts: 32.0% and in his senior year transfered to Molloy (NCAA2): 30 games: 8.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 6.0apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3Pts: 28.8%, FT: 74.6%. Two fo his former coaches gave Fuller the total thumbs up and he delivered in the German regionaliga and will now attempt the next step in the German PRO B. 'Harley is a crafty point guard with the ability to create for teammates and score in a variety of different ways. He is an above average three point shooter and has a high basketball IQ. He really takes pride in getting others involved but also can score in bunches. He works very well off the of pick and roll and makes intelligent decision on the fast break. An excellent reounder and floor general who has strong knowledge of the game and how to run a winning team. He's a proven winner', stated Molloy College Men's Basketball Coach Charles Marquardt. ' Harley is a true point guard, He knows how to run a team without turning the ball over. He is a leader who comes from huge winning numbers. We are very fortunate to get him', expressed Florida International University Men's Basketball Coach Sergio Rouco. Awards/Achievements in his career have been HS: Player of the Year -03, MVP of the Las Vegas Prep Classic -03, All Mountain Valley, Conference Selection -04, 05, All Region 3 Selection -04, 05, 07, All Mountain Valley Conference Selection -06, 07, NJCAA Region 3 Chanmpion -07, Top 15 in NCAA Division 2 in Assists Per game -10, and Spalding BVRP Cup Winner -11 (MVP)

Fabian Luhring Joins SC Rist Wedel - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
PRO B team SC Rist Wedel welcome Fabian Luhring to the team. Luhring is a 28 year old 213cm center that will play the position 4-5. Last season the German played for the Oldenburger TB in the 2Regionaliga North-West and averaged 16,0ppg. 'He will give us added stability under the basket. He has the ability to play in the PRO B. He is a very good rebounder and shot. ', stressed SC Rist Wedel head coach Ozhan Gurel. 'I have never played higher than the 2 Regionaliga, so i am not sure how big of a jump it will be into the PRO B. In the last 5-6 years, knee injuries have prevented me to play at a higher level.', stressed Fabian Luhring

Source: SC Rist Wedel

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


Poland lose to Greece - by Dawid Roguski
Poland - Greece 50:71

Polish National Team lose to Greece friendly game on International tournament in Rimini [Italy]. Greece won first quarter by one point [19:18]. In second part of the game Polish NT won only 5 points and lost 22. Best performed by the Polish NT was the third quarter, in which they won 16:12 but they lost last part of the game 11:18 and the whole game 50:71. Kostas Koufos (213-C/F-89, college: Ohio St.) finished with 20 points, while Kostas Vasileiadis added 10 points for the winners. Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) responded 13 points for Poland. Pawel Leonczyk (202-F-86, agency: Promotex) had 4 points and 7 rebound in defeat.

Poland: Dardan Berisha 13, Piotr Pamula (195-G-90) 8, Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) 7
Greece: Kostas Koufos 16, Kostas Vasileiadis 10

*****************************************************
  HUNGARY   


EuroBasket Additional Qualifying Round. Finland silence Hungary in Szolnok - by Eurobasket News
Hungary - Finland 73:75

Finland celebrated the first win at the 2011 EuroBasket Additional Qualifying Round. They stunned Hungary on the road in the opener. Teemu Rannikko (189-G-80) stepped up with 16 points and 4 assists to pace the visitors. Hungary fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Finland opened the game with seven points in a row. But Hungary quickly rebounded answering with eight straight points of their own. The teams exchanged baskets in a high-flying first term as Hungary eked out a 24:23 lead after ten minutes. Finland used a 6:0 run midway through the second frame to surge ahead. Hungary erased the deficit and tied things up at 37. Akos Horvath (194-G/F-81) and Bader gave the home team a 42:37 lead at the start of the second half. Finland went on a 15:3 run in the quarter to establish a 61:49 advantage late in the period. The visitors maintained the lead for some time before Hungary triggered a 15:0 run to post a 68:65 lead with just over five minutes remaining. The teams were tied at 73 with just over two minutes left in regulation. A barrage of misses was snapped by a layup from Gerald Lee (208-F-87, college: ODU) as he put Finland in charge. Obie Trotter (186-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Alabama A&M) had a chance to save the game for the hosts but missed a three-pointer. Gerald Lee produced 14 points, while Kimmo Muurinen (202-F-81, college: UALR) provided 12 points in the victory. Akos Horvath answered with 15 points for Hungary. Obie Trotter had 12 points, 7 rebounds and 6 steals, while Akos Keller (206-F/C-89, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) added 12 points in the loss.

Hungary: Akos Horvath 15, Obie Trotter 12, Akos Keller 12
Finland: Teemu Rannikko 16, Gerald Lee 14, Kimmo Muurinen 12


EC qualification - by Balazs Radics
HUNGARY - FINNLAND 73-75 (24-23, 13-14, 15-24, 21-14)
Szolnok, 2700 att. Ref: Radovic, Sutulovic, Chiara
HUNGARY: Trotter 12/3, Hanga 10, Akos Horvath (194-G/F-81) 15/9, LORANT 12, Bader 5. Sub: KELLER 12, Vojvoda, Fodor M. 2, Trepak 2, Molnar A. 3.
FINNLAND: KOPONEN 10/3, Salin 6, Huff 6, MUURINEN 12/6, Kotti 6. Sub: LEE 14, RANNIKKO 16/6, Makalainen, Koivisto 5/3, Nikkila
FG%: 43 (26/60) & 45 (26/57). FT%: 68 (17/25), & 89 (17/19)
Rebs: 33, & 26.; Hanga, Trotter, Keller 7-7, & Lee, Kotti, Salin 5-5
Asst: Lorant, Horvath 4-4, & Koponen 5



*****************************************************
  INDONESIA   


Indonesia rally past Laos for second win in Banting - by Eurobasket News
Indonesia U16 - Laos U16 83:50

Indonesia recorded the second win at the U16 SEABA Championship in Malaysia. They rolled past Laos for 2-1 record in the ladder. Vincent Kosasih (198-C-96) came up with 23 points and 22 rebounds to pace Indonesia.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Indonesia led by just a single point 11:10 after ten minutes. Indonesia pulled away in the second term. They recorded a 40:27 halftime advantage at the interval. Indonesia opened the second half on a 10:2 run to clear off. They piled up a 20-point lead with one quarter remaining. Indonesia maintained the advantage throughout the fourth quarter and drove to the victory at the end. Juan Kokodiputro (193-C-95) produced 14 points, while Rafael Yogia (172-G-95) nailed 11 points in the win. Phoutthasak Thavonphaneuk (170-PG-96) responded with 15 points for Laos. Aphakone Phommasone (175-G-96) chipped in 8 points in the loss.

Indonesia U16: Vincent Kosasih 23+22 boards, Juan Kokodiputro 14, Rafael Yogia 11
Laos U16: Phoutthasak Thavonphaneuk 15, Aphakone Phommasone 8



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


William Jones Cup. Iran tame Jordan in New Taipei City - by Eurobasket News
Iran - Jordan 68:67

Iran nipped Jordan on the final day of preliminary round at William Jones Cup. Iran thus improved at 5-2 record and occupied the third position. They will now take on Philippines in the semis. Jordan will play for the fifth place at the tournament.
Jordan led 15:11 after ten minutes of action. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the second term. Jordan ensured a 4-point lead at halftime 32:28. Iran however erased the deficit in the third quarter. The teams entered the fourth term tied at 45. Iran scored 23 points and eked out a narrow victory at the end. Hamed Haddadi (218-C-85) tallied 13 points, 13 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 blocks for Iran. Saman Veisi (189-G-82) netted 12 points in the victory. Alkhas Naim (201-F-76) responded with 17 points for Jordan. Rasheim Wright (194-G-81, college: District of Col.) posted 15 points in the loss.

Iran: Hamed Haddadi 13+13 boards, Saman Veisi 12, Saeid Davarpanah (190-G-87) 11
Jordan: Alkhas Naim 17, Rasheim Wright 15


*****************************************************
  ISRAEL   


Jarvis Varnado officially signed with Jerusalem - by David Pick
Updated: August 12, 2011, 15:52 PM

High flying former Mississippi St. graduate and defensive stopper Jarvis Varnado (Agent: Zeev Gross), officially signed a one-year deal with Hapoel Jerusalem. This, after Varnado tweeted earlier this week 'Bout to sign a deal in Israel with Hapoel Jerusalem God is good.'

'Eurobaket' understood over a month ago that the talented forward's representatives already begun the official negotiations of contract terms with Jerusalem and it seemed to be only a matter of time for the deal to be finalized. Head coach Oded Katash is known to be highly impressed with the player's athletic skills and defensive abilities.

In 2011, the shot blocking machine became the NCAA All-Time best shot blocker. Also, he is the second player (after David Robinson) in Div. 1 history to have passed the 1,000 points, 1,000 rebounds and 500 blocked shots in career. The funny thing about it is that despite being drafted by the Miami Heat with the 41st pick, Varnado is yet to officially wear an NBA jersey.

The SEC All-Tournaments MVP in 09' and All-SEC 1st Team player in both 09' and 10' graduated school with double-double averages of 13.8ppg, 10.3rpg and 4.7bpg (!!). Last season Varnado played in Italy's Div. 2 for Tuscany Tissue Pistoia. After recording seven season double-double games, he posted season averages of 15.4ppg, 8.9rpg and
finished first in the league in shot blocks with 3.1bpg.

Hapoel is still negotiating contract terms with both Timmy Bowers and NBA shooting guard Roger Mason who both previously played in J-M. The N.Y. Knicks shooter demanded his contract has an NBA out where at first the team was against the idea, however, recently things turned around and Mason will likely close a monthly deal.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

*****************************************************
  ITALY   


Biancoblu Basket Bologna adds Canavesi to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
Biancoblu Basket Bologna (Lega2) added to their roster 25-year old ex-international power forward Matteo Canavesi (204-F/C-86). Canavesi played most recently at Naturhouse Ferrara (A dilettanti). While playing 5 games for N.Ferrara last season his stats were: 9.2ppg, 7.0rpg and 1.0spg. He played also first part of the season for Fabi Shoes Montegranaro in SerieA. But he was mostly watching the games from deep bench and in 14 games his stats were just 1.4ppg and 1.3rpg. However he made with a team to Italian Cup Semifinals. Two years ago (2009) Canavesi was selected to Italian National Team Camp.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Standings - SerieA
SerieA Standings
 1. Angelico BI 0-0 
 2. Armani MI 0-0 
 3. Banca Tercas 0-0 
 4. Banco di Sard. 0-0 
 5. Benetton TV 0-0 
 6. Bennet Cantu 0-0 
 7. Cimberio VA 0-0 
 8. CS Bologna 0-0 
 9. Fabi Shoes 0-0 
 10. Lottomatica 0-0 
 11. Montepaschi 0-0 
 12. Novipiu CM 0-0 
 13. Pepsi Caserta 0-0 
 14. Scavolini PS 0-0 
 15. Sidigas AV 0-0 
 16. Vanoli CR 0-0 


Standings - B1
Nazionale A Standings
 1. Anagni 0-0 
 2. Bari 0-0 
 3. Chieti 0-0 
 4. Comsum.it SI 0-0 
 5. Fabriano 0-0 
 6. Ferentino 0-0 
 7. Firenze 0-0 
 8. Lago Maggiore 0-0 
 9. Latina Basket 0-0 
 10. Matera 0-0 
 11. Napoli 0-0 
 12. Omegna 0-0 
 13. Orlandina 0-0 
 14. Pavia 0-0 
 15. Perugia 0-0 
 16. Recanati 0-0 
 17. Ruvo 0-0 
 18. San Severo 0-0 
 19. Santarcangelo 0-0 
 20. Torino 0-0 
 21. Trapani 0-0 
 22. Trento 0-0 
 23. Treviglio 0-0 
 24. Trieste 0-0 
 25. UCC 0-0 


Standings - Lega 2
Lega2 Standings
 1. Aget Imola 0-0 
 2. Assi Ostuni 0-0 
 3. Biancoblu BO 0-0 
 4. Centrale Latte 0-0 
 5. Enel Brindisi 0-0 
 6. Fileni BPA 0-0 
 7. Giorgio Tesi PT 0-0 
 8. MarcoPoloShop 0-0 
 9. Morpho Basket 0-0 
 10. Prima Veroli 0-0 
 11. S.Antimo 0-0 
 12. Scafati Basket 0-0 
 13. Sigma Barcel. 0-0 
 14. Tezenis Verona 0-0 
 15. Trenkwalder 0-0 
 16. Umana Venezia 0-0 


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


Football Or Basketball - by Emeka Eke


There have been arguments regarding the popularity of basketball when compared to football lately. While some pundits hold the view that football, or soccer as the Americans call it, which generated an excess of $1 billion for its regulators, FIFA at last year's summer world cup alone, is more profitable and enjoys a wider followership, others say basketball, which was founded by James Naismith an American, regulated by FIBA today, and enjoys widespread followership in many many countries is more popular.

In Asia today, like with football, basketball is followed with unrepentant passion. While countries like the Philippines and even Malaysia have structured some colleges' programs to promote sports thereby offering talented student-athletes the opportunity to get athletics scholarships in college as is the case in the United States; China, for its part, one of Asia's best basketball powerhouse even has its own draft program from where players are drafted directly into the, Chinese Basketball League, CBL. One of the draftees to the CBL is Nigeria's 6-10 Center, Olumide Oyedeji, who got drafted into the NBA in 2000 as a 42nd overall pick by Seattle Sonics from Wurzburg, Germany. Like Olumide, who also played for Korea's Samsung Thunders, lots of NBA-bound college graduates prefer to explore the CBL, which like many other Leagues in Asia is amongst the best in the world even as tough as the European Leagues.

William Jones Cup. Philippines ease past Japan - by Eurobasket News
Philippines - Japan 94:78

Philippines recorded the fifth win at the William Jones Cup. They stormed past Japan to earn the second place at the end of preliminary round. Philippines will now take on Iran in the semis tomorrow. Jordan fell at 4-3 record after the defeat and would play against Malaysia in the classification round.
Philippines and Japan stayed competitive in the opening frame. Philippines eked out a 24:20 lead after ten minutes. Japan unloaded 29 points in the second term to pull ahead 49:44 at halftime. Philippines narrowed the gap in the third stanza. They arrived at the final intermission trailing by 3 points. Philippines fired 29 points in the fourth frame and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) scored 32 points to lead the effort. Donaldo Hontiveros (188-G-77) netted 14 points in the winning case. Keijuro Matsui (188-G-85, college: Columbia) responded with 27 points for Japan. Fumio Nishimura (177-G-86) accounted for 11 points in defeat.

Philippines: Marcus Douthit 32, Donaldo Hontiveros 14, Christopher Tiu (178-PG-85) 11
Japan: Keijuro Matsui 27, Fumio Nishimura 11


*****************************************************
  JORDAN   


William Jones Cup. Iran tame Jordan in New Taipei City - by Eurobasket News
Iran - Jordan 68:67

Iran nipped Jordan on the final day of preliminary round at William Jones Cup. Iran thus improved at 5-2 record and occupied the third position. They will now take on Philippines in the semis. Jordan will play for the fifth place at the tournament.
Jordan led 15:11 after ten minutes of action. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the second term. Jordan ensured a 4-point lead at halftime 32:28. Iran however erased the deficit in the third quarter. The teams entered the fourth term tied at 45. Iran scored 23 points and eked out a narrow victory at the end. Hamed Haddadi (218-C-85) tallied 13 points, 13 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 blocks for Iran. Saman Veisi (189-G-82) netted 12 points in the victory. Alkhas Naim (201-F-76) responded with 17 points for Jordan. Rasheim Wright (194-G-81, college: District of Col.) posted 15 points in the loss.

Iran: Hamed Haddadi 13+13 boards, Saman Veisi 12, Saeid Davarpanah (190-G-87) 11
Jordan: Alkhas Naim 17, Rasheim Wright 15


*****************************************************
  LAOS   


Indonesia rally past Laos for second win in Banting - by Eurobasket News
Indonesia U16 - Laos U16 83:50

Indonesia recorded the second win at the U16 SEABA Championship in Malaysia. They rolled past Laos for 2-1 record in the ladder. Vincent Kosasih (198-C-96) came up with 23 points and 22 rebounds to pace Indonesia.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Indonesia led by just a single point 11:10 after ten minutes. Indonesia pulled away in the second term. They recorded a 40:27 halftime advantage at the interval. Indonesia opened the second half on a 10:2 run to clear off. They piled up a 20-point lead with one quarter remaining. Indonesia maintained the advantage throughout the fourth quarter and drove to the victory at the end. Juan Kokodiputro (193-C-95) produced 14 points, while Rafael Yogia (172-G-95) nailed 11 points in the win. Phoutthasak Thavonphaneuk (170-PG-96) responded with 15 points for Laos. Aphakone Phommasone (175-G-96) chipped in 8 points in the loss.

Indonesia U16: Vincent Kosasih 23+22 boards, Juan Kokodiputro 14, Rafael Yogia 11
Laos U16: Phoutthasak Thavonphaneuk 15, Aphakone Phommasone 8



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


David Blatt's team beat Latvia in Arena Riga - by Eurobasket News
Latvia NT-Russia NT 68:87

Russian National team won the friendly game over Latvia in Riga. David Blatt 's team overcame the Baltic side 87:68 in their capital.
More than 3500 came to see the game alive in Arena Riga. The teams stayed close to each other in the opening period and only at the end Russia took 22:21. In the second period the guests added 26-14 and had 48:35 halftime advantage. The third frame belonged to the home side that bounced back with 21-14 trailing 6 points after thirty minutes. Russia however needed 25-12 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) poured in 14 points and grabbed 9 rebounds, while Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) posted 13. Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: RIZO) and Sergey Monya (203-F-83) followed them with 10 points each. Rihards Kuksiks (198-G/F-88) ended up with 11 points in the losing effort, while Rolands Freimanis (207-C/F-88, agency: Players Group) and Martins Meiers (206-C-91) scored 10 apiece.
The teams will face each other again tomorrow.

Latvia NT: Rihards Kuksiks 11, Rolands Freimanis 10, Martins Meiers 10
Russia NT: Andrei Kirilenko 14+ 9 rebs, Vitaly Fridzon 13, Timofey Mozgov 10, Sergey Monya 10


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


Raimundas Danys joins Neptunas - by Deividas Valiunas
Neptunas Klaipeda agreed terms with 25 year old Lithuania forward Raimundas Danys (198-G/F-85). Danys played most recently at Naglis-Adakris Palangos. While playing 10 games in Lithuania league (LKL) last season his stats were: 11,2 ppg and 5,9 rpg. Forward also added 12 ppg and 5,6 rpg for games in Baltic league.
In the past, Danys was a member of LKKA-Atletas Kaunas and Marijampole Suduva-Arvi.


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


Brandon Gary is a newcomer at Musel Pikes - by Eurobasket Center
Musel Pikes strengthened their roster with addition of 28-year old American forward Brandon Gary (202-F-83, college: Hutchinson CC). Gary played most recently at AB Contern (Diekirch League). While playing 23 games for Contern last season he averaged 19.1ppg, 13.2rpg (2nd best in the league), 1.5apg, 1.8spg (3rd best in the league) and 2.0bpg ( best in the league). He is already an icon player after 3 years in Luxembourg league. He is regularly selected for the All-Star Game and last two seasons he was voted as Eurobasket.com All-Luxembourg League Defensive Player of the Year and to Eurobasket.com All-Luxembourg League 2nd Team. Gary is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Finland, Germany and USA.

By Eurobasket Data Center

*****************************************************
  MALAYSIA   


William Jones Cup. Malaysia register first win in New Taipei City - by Eurobasket News
Malaysia - UAE 100:89

Malaysia recorded the initial win at the William Jones Cup. They held off UAE to improve at 1-6 record. Yoong Jing Kwaan (200-C-90) knocked down 24 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to pace the effort. UAE fell at 0-7 record and finished at the bottom of the ladder.
The teams stayed closer throughout the opening quarter. Malaysia and UAE entered the second term tied at 23. UAE pulled ahead for a one-point lead 44:43 halftime lead. Malaysia erased the deficit as the teams arrived at the final intermission tied at 67. Malaysia unleashed 33 points in the fourth quarter and pulled ahead for the victory at the end. Ban Sin Ooi (180-G/F-83) notched 19 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, while Li Wei Chee (186-F-85) delivered 17 points in the victory. Omar Alameri responded with 20 points for UAE. Rashed Al Zaabi (188-G-88) accounted for 19 points in the loss.

Malaysia: Yoong Jing Kwaan 24, Ban Sin Ooi 19, Li Wei Chee 17
UAE: Omar Alameri 20, Rashed Al Zaabi 19


Malaysia prevail against Singapore in Banting - by Eurobasket News
Malaysia U16 - Singapore U16 74:70

Malaysia registered the first win at the U16 SEABA Championship in Banting. The hosts held off Singapore to improve at 1-1 record. Yip How Chua provided 25 points to lead the charge.
Malaysia surged ahead early in the game. They posted an 18:12 lead after ten minutes of action. Singapore reacted in the second term. They denied the deficit and posted a 35:34 halftime lead. Malaysia regained control early in the third quarter. They registered a 55:51 advantage with ten minutes remaining. Malaysia kept the pressure on Singapore in the fourth term and snatched a tough win at the end. Hong Tan (189-F-95) and Zhi Tan (178-G-95) added 9 points each in the victory. Yuan Xing (184-F-96) replied with 21 points and 8 rebounds for Singapore. Toh Qing (183-F-95), Jun Alistier (183-F-96) and Chiang Kok (199-C-95) produced 12 points each in the loss.

Malaysia U16: Yip How Chua 25, Hong Tan 9, Zhi Tan 9
Singapore U16: Yuan Xing 21, Toh Qing 12, Jun Alistier 12, Chiang Kok 12



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


Carlesimo could join Nets' bench - by Eurobasket News
Avery Johnson has a chance to stop his bench's bleeding after several coaching defections.

Yahoo! Sports columnist and former Nets beat writer Adrian Wojnarowski reported that P.J. Carlesimo is a 'strong candidate' to join Johnson's staff.

Carlesimo represents a gifted basketball mind with a laundry-list of accolades. The hire would make a lot of sense since Carlesimo spent five years with Gregg Popovich as an assistant coach. Johnson has strong San Antonio ties.

Carlesimo burst onto the basketball scene in New Jersey. As the Seton Hall coach, he led the Pirates to the 1989 national championship game after taking over a listless program in 1982. His first coaching gig came with the Portland Trail Blazers in 1994.

Carlesimo has a career 204-296 record and most recently coached with the Oklahoma City Thunder organization. He was an assistant last season with Jay Triano in Toronto.

While Johnson started 2010-11 with one of the strongest benches in the NBA, the assistants have moved out of town one by one.

Larry Krystkowiak bolted late in the 2010-11 season to take the vacant head coaching position at the University of Utah. Sam Mitchell, one time coach of the year, is rumored to be the leader in the clubhouse for the Minnesota Timberwolves opening.

The two coaches served as Johnson's right hand men with the Nets.

Carlesimo is famously remembered for being attacked by Latrell Sprewell in a Golden State Warriors' practice in 1997. Sprewell choked Carlesimo and teammates had to restrain the one-time Knicks product.

Sprewell earned himself a one-year suspension.

Carlesimo's vocal coaching style created a rift between him and Sprewell. During a practice shootaround, the guard responded to Carlesimo's instructions with: 'I don't want to hear it today.'

When Carlesimo confronted Sprewell, the guard allegedly threatened to kill the coach.

Courtesy of www.examiner.com

UK team entices Ron Artest - by Eurobasket News
The Cheshire Jets are offering to help Ron Artest (6'7''-G/F-79, college: St.John's) grow his off-court profile in the United Kingdom as a means of enticing the Los Angeles Lakers' swingman to play with the British Basketball League club this fall in the event of an extended NBA lockout.

Jets director Peter Hawkins told ESPN.com Thursday that his team, in an attempt to offset the monetary limitations it faces compared to clubs from bigger leagues in Europe, will try to get Artest prominent TV work in England, should he agree to join the Jets.

'You'll appreciate that we haven't got the means to entice someone of Ron's standing on financial grounds,' Hawkins said. 'Our commitment is to help raise Ron's profile in the UK in order to help him develop his music and movie career over here while playing basketball.'

One possibility, according to a source with knowledge of the Jets' plans, is trying to find Artest a role on a British soap opera.

Artest's publicist, Courtney Barnes, said that Artest will be in the United Kingdom Aug. 18-23 and is scheduled to meet with the Jets during his stay to discuss options outside of basketball available to him.

'Ron is just going to the UK to take a meeting,' Barnes said in a phone interview with ESPNLosAngeles.com Thursday. 'That's it.

'There's no deal in place for him to play. ... He is just going to see the lay of the land.'

It became clear Tuesday that Artest is giving serious consideration to playing in England this fall, despite the BBL's modest standing in terms of world basketball, when he posted the following message via his Twitter feed: 'Go Jets!!!!! Uk , here we come!!! Jets are the best!!! Jets are the best!!! New chant!!!!!!!!!'

On the team's website, Hawkins said: 'We are honored that Ron has even mentioned the prospect of joining the Jets. Financially we have nothing to offer him, but it would be so significant for UK basketball, we have offered him a stake in the club and all the love in the world!'

According to FIBA rules announced in late July, Artest would have to make a signed declaration to return to the Lakers as soon the NBA lockout ends if he indeed signs with Cheshire.

The 31-year-old averaged 8.5 points per game last season while appearing in all 82 games for the Lakers. Artest has three years and $21 million left on his contract.

Courtesy of ESPN

Partizan close to return Nikola Pekovic - by Eurobasket News
Partizan Belgrade is very close to return their former player Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket). The Serbian powerhouse and NBA center already negotiate. If they sign a deal, it will be valid until the end of the NBA lockout when Pekovic will return to his team Minnesota Timberwolves.
Nikola Pekovic played 65 games for the Wolves last season averaging 5.5 points and 3 rebounds. It was his rookie NBA year. Before that, he spent two years with Panathinaikos Athens helping them win two Greek league titles. They also were Euroleague champions in 2009 and that same year PAO won the Greek Cup as well. From 2005 to 2008, Nikola Pekovic played for Partizan. He exploded in their last season together and was the best Euroleague center with 16.4 ppg and 6.9 rpg. Pekovic was also named Eurobasket.com All-Europe Center of the Year 2008 and 2009.

*****************************************************
  PHILIPPINES   


William Jones Cup. Philippines ease past Japan - by Eurobasket News
Philippines - Japan 94:78

Philippines recorded the fifth win at the William Jones Cup. They stormed past Japan to earn the second place at the end of preliminary round. Philippines will now take on Iran in the semis tomorrow. Jordan fell at 4-3 record after the defeat and would play against Malaysia in the classification round.
Philippines and Japan stayed competitive in the opening frame. Philippines eked out a 24:20 lead after ten minutes. Japan unloaded 29 points in the second term to pull ahead 49:44 at halftime. Philippines narrowed the gap in the third stanza. They arrived at the final intermission trailing by 3 points. Philippines fired 29 points in the fourth frame and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) scored 32 points to lead the effort. Donaldo Hontiveros (188-G-77) netted 14 points in the winning case. Keijuro Matsui (188-G-85, college: Columbia) responded with 27 points for Japan. Fumio Nishimura (177-G-86) accounted for 11 points in defeat.

Philippines: Marcus Douthit 32, Donaldo Hontiveros 14, Christopher Tiu (178-PG-85) 11
Japan: Keijuro Matsui 27, Fumio Nishimura 11


2011 William Jones Cup Day 7 Scores & Commentary - by Enzo Flojo
PHL 94 - Douthit 32, Hontiveros 14, Lassiter 11, Tiu 11, Lutz 9, Barroca 8, Aguilar 7, Taulava 2, Ballesteros 0, Baracael 0
JPN 78 - Matsui 27, Nishimura 11, Okada 9, Hinkley 8, Ota 7, Shonaka 5, Togashi 5, Ito 4, Arao 2, Kamata 0, Noguchi 0, Sakai 0
QS: 24-20, 44-49, 65-68, 94-78
- Gilas needed a strong 4th quarter wind-up to dispose of the pesky Japanese, who were led by KJ Matsui's 27 points, which were highlighted by his 8-of-8 shooting from rainbow country.
- Donaldo Hontiveros (188-G-77) led the Filipinos' stirring run in the last period, where he scored 12 of his 14 points.
- With the win, Gilas clinches a semifinals spot at 5-2, which is good for 2nd place since they beat the Iranians on opening day. Gilas will face Iran once again tomorrow for a spot in the Jones Cup FInals.
- Japan exits the tournament at 3-4, but not after impressing a lot of people with their quickness, grit and shooting. The highlight of their campaign was surely the 17-point upset of the Jordanians.

IRN 68 - Haddadi 13, Saman Veisi (189-G-82) 12, Davarpanah 11, Sahakian 10, Davari 10, Davoudi 6, Kardoust 4, Kamrani 2, Nabipoor 0
JOR 67 - Al-Khas 17, Wright 15, Abbas 14, Dahglas 14, Abbaas 3, Abu Ruqayah 2, Soobzokov 2, Abu Quora 0, Al-Sous 0
QS: 11-15, 28-32, 45-45, 68-67
- This game literally came down to the last shot. Rasheim Wright (194-G-81, college: District of Col.) received a kick-out pass from Sam Dahglas and hoisted a shot from the top of the key as time expired. He missed it as the final buzzer sounded, giving Iran the important win, and a ticket to the semifinals.
- Once again, Saman Veisi came up big for the Iranians as he poured in 12 points, hauled down 6 rebounds and had 2 steals. He backed up Hamed Haddadi, who finished with 13 markers, 13 boards, 6 dimes and 5 rejections.
- Veteran Zaid Al-Khas, who has been used sparingly throughout the tournament, was the surprise top-scorer for Jordan in this losing cause. Losing AJ Zaghab to injury was a big blow to the Jordanians, and if Zaghab's injury proves to slow him down in the coming FIBA-Asia, then Jordan's chances terribly slim.
- Iran's win propels them to third place, right behind their opening day tormentors -- Smart-Gilas. They get another crack the Pinoys tomorrow.
- Jordan bows out after a strong start to the competition. In the end, their resounding wins over Gilas and Korea were overshadowed by this loss and earlier defeats to Taiwan and Japan.

MAS 100 - Yoong Jing Kwaan (200-C-90) 24, Ooi 19, Chee 17, Ng 15, Loh 7, Wee 7, Batumalai 6, Ong 3, Kuek 2, Ho 0
UAE 89 - Al-Ameri 20, Al-Zaabi 19, Salem 13, Al-Hattawi 10, Omar 10, Ahmed 7, Abdalla 6, Al-Ali 4, Al-Braiki 0, Mubarak 0
QS: 23-23, 43-44, 67-67, 100-89
- Clearly one of the most entertaining games of the tournament, as both teams shot well from the field.
- A few days after being infamous for grabbing Asi Taulava's family jewels, Yoong Jing Kwaan pours in 24 markers in this resounding win for the Malaysians. People were probably expecting them to bow to the taller Emirates, but the Southeast Asians were helped by 11 triples, a +10 advantage in assists, and forcing UAE to 20 turnovers.
- UAE ends the tournament as the only winless team, and though they've gained valuable experience, this last defeat at the hands of the unheralded Malaysians might take a toll on their confidence.
- Malaysia comes out guns blazing to finish the Jones Cup on a winning note. This should definitely boost their confidence heading into the 2011 SEA Games and FIBA-Asia.

KOR 110 - Cho 24, Kim YH 17, Yang HJ 15, Kang 12, Kim JK 10, Oh 7, Stevenson 7, Yang DG 4, Park 2, Lee 2, Kim JS 0
TPE 68 - Chien 29, Chang 11, Creighton 11, Chen SN 5, Su 5, Yang 3, Lu 2, Chou PC 2, Chou YH 0, Ho 0, Lee 0
QS: 19-16, 49-33, 76-50, 110-68
- With Jordan's loss, Taiwan knew it could afford to lose this game. They consequently rested their stars and chose to give their reserves some needed burn. Needless to say, Taiwan got slaughtered, though young gun Chien Chia-Hung (197-F-87) unloaded an impressive 29 points.
- Korea was able to use most of its reserves as well, with snipers Cho Sung-Min (189-F-83) and Kim Yong-Hwan combining for 9 triples. Overall, Korea shot a blistering 60% from the field, 58% from three-land, doubled Taiwan's assist total and more than doubled their rebounds.
- Korea clinches the top spot and Taiwan takes the last bus to the semis. That means they'll get an immediate rematch tomorrow evening, where both sides' stars are sure to feature prominently.

Source: HoopNut.blogspot.com

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  POLAND   


Michal Ignerski agreed with Nizhniy Novgorod - by Eurobasket News
Michal Ignerski (207-F-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) agreed with Nizhniy Novgorod for 2011/2012 season. The Polish Forward comes from Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul where he finished the last season.
Over the last few years Michal Ignerski traveled a lot around Europe. In 2005-2006 he played for WTK Anwil Wloclawek (EBL, starting five) and in ULEB Cup averaged 14.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 42.9%, 3FGP: 40%, FT: 72.4%. In Polish League his stats read 15.4ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 46.4%, 3FGP: 40.5%, FT: 72.4%. In 2006-2007 moved to Caja San Fernando Sevilla (Spain-ACB) and showed 9.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 80.0%. His last season there he averaged 9.6ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 44.1%, FT: 76.9%.
In 2009-2010 signed with Lagun Aro (Spain-ACB, starting five) and in 33 games averaged 10.4ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 79.1%. The last season started for Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul (Turkey-TBL) and in EuroCup had 11.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 93.3%. In Turkish League his stats read 11.8ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 73.9%.


Poland lose to Greece - by Dawid Roguski
Poland - Greece 50:71

Polish National Team lose to Greece friendly game on International tournament in Rimini [Italy]. Greece won first quarter by one point [19:18]. In second part of the game Polish NT won only 5 points and lost 22. Best performed by the Polish NT was the third quarter, in which they won 16:12 but they lost last part of the game 11:18 and the whole game 50:71. Kostas Koufos (213-C/F-89, college: Ohio St.) finished with 20 points, while Kostas Vasileiadis added 10 points for the winners. Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) responded 13 points for Poland. Pawel Leonczyk (202-F-86, agency: Promotex) had 4 points and 7 rebound in defeat.

Poland: Dardan Berisha 13, Piotr Pamula (195-G-90) 8, Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) 7
Greece: Kostas Koufos 16, Kostas Vasileiadis 10

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


Exclusive interview with Nate Bowie - by Bruno Baltazar
We had this week the chance to exclusivly speak with Nate Bowie (183-G-86, college: Cent.Arkansas) ,the Proliga champion and MVP ,he tell us how things go in the offseason and his complete experience with Terceira Basket.

Q:Alot of athletes that previously played in Europe for the 2010-2011 season wait patiently on teams to sign them. How are you affected by this NBA lockout? and how do you maintain patience during the offseason?
A:I think the NBA lockout affected everybody in Europe. Because its kind of like a waterfall that trickles down to a stream. Teams want and waiting on NBA guys to make their choice about which overseas team they may go to, while players like me wait on teams as well to pick NBA guys or not. So alot of good and high paying jobs are taken first by them. But thats apart of life. I try to get my mind of things by working out on an consistent basis. Working out with my friend Leo Lyons and discussing basketball always is a stress relief. He also is professional basketball player overseas. I also try to leave the negotiating and team inquiries to my close friend Kenny Williams who is also a former NBA/Overseas player that played for 19 years professionally.

Q:You are considered to be still a young basketball player, but with alot of overseas experience, what do you need to still work on as a competitor and athlete?
A:As a player that always want to improve his game, I felt that best thing for me to work on this summer was to gain a little bit more weight. I have a personal trainer, and as of now im gaining muscle on top of weight so im very pleased with my workout effort this summer, to go along with my drills, weights, speed and also shooting.

Q:Did you expected to come to Portugal and become a Proliga champion aswell as the MVP?
After a tremendous season what have you been doing this offseason?
A:Not at all truthfully I just expected to have a good season and hope for the best in the next season. But as I entered the season I felt that we could win the whole thing, with a few extra pieces we added. I am a competitor and never like to lose, I felt and nobody take this the wrong way; that I was the best player in Portugal. Im sure any and every athlete feels the same about their basketball abilities, and in some aspects you have to think like that. My father always told me that 90percent of your game is confidence the other 10 percent is merly other abilities I posses.
To go along with my off season workouts I've been doing some traveling which I love. I also signed an apparel endorsement deal with Richard Rivera (2DaHole) which was featured in July addition in Slam Magazine. I was blessed to land that. I will be wearing his apparel before and after games and even during the games. So im excited for that. Its the start of something HUGE!

Q:Will you play again for Terceira ,in Portugal or where you would like to for other team or in some other league?
How are the offers looking?
A:I wouldnt mind coming back to Terceira if all the pieces come back, like my coach Rui Fonseca and the rest of my team and also Durrell Nevels. I think if we add a few more pieces we could scare teams in the LPB. The offers are looking good, got alot of interest in different countries, so as far as now I leave it to God and we all know he works wonderfully. Its out of my hands now. All I can control is what I do on the court.

Q:You are known for your scoring ability, easily abusing defenders as a point guard but what is something that people dont know about your game?
A:I think a very key aspect of my game that should be reconized is that im a true leader on and off the floor. I hate to lose and always play with fire in my eyes. So I try to get my team to play with that same lion characteristics in their game.

Q:Tell us more about the experience itself in Portugal such as their traditions,food,etc,and Terceira as a organization?
A: I loved my experience in Portugal. I think out of all the places I have visited and played Portugal is a very Americanize country which none of us would expect, being that its small. The food was also great but for my fellow Portugal friends IT IS NOT THE BEST IN THE WORLD lol. I had to get that off my chest but it is very good. Terceira organization is still young and have a bright future. All teams even players have still things to learn as an organization but for the most part everything is A ok.

Q:Can you tell us again more about how did the season was in Portugal in terms of how the country is and how competition is?
A: Coming from countries like Slovenia, Spain and Morocco. I think Portugal has its own unique style as a country. Every team is different in Portugal and really the style depends on the players each team posses and the coaches wishes. Our style as a team that made us success for was an Up and Down game. We felt as if, if we speed the game up noone could beat us. You have to use different aspects in the game to be successful as a unit. We were young so we did what we needed to do, so that at the end of the game and we looked up at that score it says Terceira with a big DUB (means win) .

Q:Any advice for americans that might have the chance to come to Portugal to play?
A:The only advice I can give is to take advantage of any and every opportunities that might be your way, and always be humble. Because their is always someone out their that wishes they was overseas even in Portugal playing. Always be thankful. Portugal is a good place to play and continue to build your resume and career.

Q:How did the oportunity to write as a blogger for eurobasket happened and will you keep updating it this season? Tell us more...
A: I was offered by one of my friends that is no longer working for eurobasket to represent Portugal as the only Eurobasket Blogger so I was excited and accepted it. I became real good friends with Luis an editor from Portugal which made it also easier. Being an Eurobasket Blogger is a huge honor because its over 200,000 players maybe in Europe and only a few are picked to do this. This kept my family back home in the loop about my life overseas as well as my fans abroad. Im excited for the upcoming season to continue this. Its an huge exposure instrument, I will be talking about my life, basketball, endorsement deal as well as anything else I might occur.

Q:Who is your favorite athlete?
A: I was in love with Earl (The Pearl) Monroe aka Black Jesus. I think as a kid I was fascinated with the way he smoothly broke down the defense and scored. Legend is everytime he would come down the middle to score the defense would part from side to side and he would lay the ball up. haha. For people out their that dont know who he is he played for the Baltimore Bullets (Washington Wizards) and the New York Knicks. He is a good athelete to pattern your game afterwards.

Q: What is your favorite sport to watch on tv?
A: I watch anything and every sport on tv, from Jimmie Johnson beating Jeff Gordan in Nascar to Tiger Woods losing to Adam Scott in the Bridgestone Invitational, to the soccer and even watching late night Euroleague games and WNBA games on my Espn Live on xbox. I can catch any and every sport that way.

Q: What was the last movie you saw?
A: The last movie I saw was The Color of Freedom. Its a MUST see for you critics out their. Its basically about a white South African who guarded Nelson Mandela during more than 20years of imprisonment.

A quote I try to remember that helps me in life: I am not what I ought to be, not what I want to be, not what I'm going to be, but I am proud to say I am better than I used to be


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  ROMANIA   


LeVar Seals signs with CSS Giurgiu - by Eurobasket News
LeVar Seals (194-G-82, college: De Paul) is a new member of CSS Giurgiu. The American guard penned a deal for the next season. He arrives to CSS Giurgiu from CSU Sibiu, where he finished 2010/11. Seals joined them in October averaging 15.3 points, 5 rebounds and 3.1 assists for 26 games. He started last season with Otopeni. He had 9 ppg and 3.3 rpg in three games, after what they parted ways. LeVar Seals played for Otopeni also in 2009/10 season. At that time he had 17 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 3 apg for 29 games. In the past LeVar Seals was a member of Atlas Stal Ostrow Wielkopolski and Univ Mobitelco Cluj Napoca. In 2008 he was named Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League 1st Team. In 2007, Seals was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup Challenge 1st Team. He exploded with 22.9 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 8 games in this competition.

CSS Giurgiu also adds Ray Kraemer - by Eurobasket News
CSS Giurgiu is very active these days. The newcomer to Romanian top division announced signing of another player for the upcoming season. They landed American guard Ray Kraemer (193-G-87, college: Nevada). The 24-year-old player is not a new face in Romania as he spent last season with CS Municipal Bucuresti. He joined them in January registering 13 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 17 games. It was his first year as a pro. Ray Kraemer graduated at the University of Nevada in 2010. He had 6.1 ppg and 2.3 rpg in 34 games as a senior. Kraemer helped Nevada to reach the WAC Tournament Semifinals. They did the same in 2008, while in 2009 they played in the Finals. Kraemer had 2.5 ppg and 1.3 rpg that year.

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  RUSSIA   


Michal Ignerski agreed with Nizhniy Novgorod - by Eurobasket News
Michal Ignerski (207-F-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) agreed with Nizhniy Novgorod for 2011/2012 season. The Polish Forward comes from Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul where he finished the last season.
Over the last few years Michal Ignerski traveled a lot around Europe. In 2005-2006 he played for WTK Anwil Wloclawek (EBL, starting five) and in ULEB Cup averaged 14.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 42.9%, 3FGP: 40%, FT: 72.4%. In Polish League his stats read 15.4ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 46.4%, 3FGP: 40.5%, FT: 72.4%. In 2006-2007 moved to Caja San Fernando Sevilla (Spain-ACB) and showed 9.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 80.0%. His last season there he averaged 9.6ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 44.1%, FT: 76.9%.
In 2009-2010 signed with Lagun Aro (Spain-ACB, starting five) and in 33 games averaged 10.4ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 79.1%. The last season started for Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul (Turkey-TBL) and in EuroCup had 11.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 93.3%. In Turkish League his stats read 11.8ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 73.9%.


Alexey Zhukanenko is out of Eurobasket 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Alexey Zhukanenko (210-F-86, agency: Alti Sport) is out of Eurobasket 2011 and can not help the Russian National team. The player has an ankle injury and will not be able to join the team. Viktor Khryapa will take his spot in the friendly game tonight against Latvia.
Alexey Zhukanenko belonged to Unics since year 2002 up to 2009. In his last season there he averaged 3.2ppg, 2.1rpg in EuroCup and in Russian League after 12 games had 2.2ppg, 1.8rpg. In 2009-2010 moved to Dynamo Moscow (A Superleague) and in EuroCup improved to 6.0ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 73.3%, while in Russian League after 27 games showed 8.8ppg, 3.5rpg, FGP: 67.2%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 66.7%. The last season for Dynamo Moscow (PBL, starting five) had high 17.5ppg, 8.5rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0spg at the EuroCup Qualifying Round and in EuroChallenge showed 14.6ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 60.0%, FT: 66.7%. In Russian League after 25 games he averaged 12.7ppg, Reb-2 (7.4rpg), FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.5%. The season 2011-2012 Alexey Zhukanenko will play for BC Khimky Moscow Region (PBL, starting five).


David Blatt's team beat Latvia in Arena Riga - by Eurobasket News
Latvia NT-Russia NT 68:87

Russian National team won the friendly game over Latvia in Riga. David Blatt 's team overcame the Baltic side 87:68 in their capital.
More than 3500 came to see the game alive in Arena Riga. The teams stayed close to each other in the opening period and only at the end Russia took 22:21. In the second period the guests added 26-14 and had 48:35 halftime advantage. The third frame belonged to the home side that bounced back with 21-14 trailing 6 points after thirty minutes. Russia however needed 25-12 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) poured in 14 points and grabbed 9 rebounds, while Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) posted 13. Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: RIZO) and Sergey Monya (203-F-83) followed them with 10 points each. Rihards Kuksiks (198-G/F-88) ended up with 11 points in the losing effort, while Rolands Freimanis (207-C/F-88, agency: Players Group) and Martins Meiers (206-C-91) scored 10 apiece.
The teams will face each other again tomorrow.

Latvia NT: Rihards Kuksiks 11, Rolands Freimanis 10, Martins Meiers 10
Russia NT: Andrei Kirilenko 14+ 9 rebs, Vitaly Fridzon 13, Timofey Mozgov 10, Sergey Monya 10


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  SERBIA   


Serbian National team edged Ukraine in Day 2 of the Spor Toto World Cup - by Eurobasket News
Serbia NT-Ukraine NT 83:57

Serbian National team edged Ukraine in Day 2 of the Spor Toto World Cup in Izmir. The Serbian side needed a strong second half for 83:57 victory to tie the record at 1-1. Ukraine lost the second game in a row to fall at 0-2.
Both teams nailed 21 points each in the opening period as Kyrylo Fesenko (213-C-86) closed the frame with a jump shot. Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) ad Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) scored for 29:26, while Ukraine reduced to 38:37 at the halftime. Serbia started to play better in the second half and pushed the tempo for good. They had 51:45 midway through the period and reached 60:48 after thirty minutes. Moreover Dusko Savanovic closed a 14-1 run to bring 74:49 in the last period. Serbia added 23-9 in it for the final success.
Dusko Savanovic stepped up with 22 points and Nenad Krstic (214-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) nailed 15. Aleksandar Rasic (195-G-84, agency: Beo Basket) notched 13, while Milan Macvan scored 9. Steve Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) ended up with 12 points and Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87, agency: Beo Basket) posted 8. Kyrylo Fesenko delivered 7, whilst Oleksiy Pecherov added 6 points and 6 rebounds.

Serbia NT: Dusko Savanovic 22, Nenad Krstic 15, Aleksandar Rasic 13, Milan Macvan 9
Ukraine NT:Steve Burtt 12, Viacheslav Kravtsov 8, Kyrylo Fesenko 7, Oleksiy Pecherov 6


Djordje Micic heads to Poland - by Eurobasket News
Djordje Micic (195-G-83) will continue his career in Poland. The Serbian guard signed a one-year deal with PBG Basket. Micic missed almost the entire last season. Actually, he played one EuroCup and one German Bundesliga game with EWE Baskets Oldenburg. Season 2009/10 he spent with Napredak Krusevac. There Micic shined with 16.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 2.1 apg for 19 games. In 2008/09 season Djordje Micic played for Keravnos and Igokea. He also has experience from FMP Zeleznik and Borac Cacak. In 2007, Djordje Micic won the Serbian Cup with FMP and they grabbed the same trophy in 2005 as well. In 2007, Micic was a member of the Serbian University National Team. They participated at the World University Championships in Bangkok.

Partizan close to return Nikola Pekovic - by Eurobasket News
Partizan Belgrade is very close to return their former player Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket). The Serbian powerhouse and NBA center already negotiate. If they sign a deal, it will be valid until the end of the NBA lockout when Pekovic will return to his team Minnesota Timberwolves.
Nikola Pekovic played 65 games for the Wolves last season averaging 5.5 points and 3 rebounds. It was his rookie NBA year. Before that, he spent two years with Panathinaikos Athens helping them win two Greek league titles. They also were Euroleague champions in 2009 and that same year PAO won the Greek Cup as well. From 2005 to 2008, Nikola Pekovic played for Partizan. He exploded in their last season together and was the best Euroleague center with 16.4 ppg and 6.9 rpg. Pekovic was also named Eurobasket.com All-Europe Center of the Year 2008 and 2009.

Nikola Gacesa gets pro deal in Austria - by Eurobasket News
Serbian forward Nikola Gacesa (205-F-87, college: TCU) is set to start his professional career. The 23-year-old player signed a deal with Austrian champions Oberwart Gunners. Gacesa graduated few months ago at the Texas Christian University. He had 4.2 ppg and 2.9 rpg for his school as a senior. Gacesa transferred to TCU from the Florida International University in 2010. His best season with FIU came in 2008/09. At that time Gacesa had 10 ppg and 4.6 rpg. As mentioned above, Oberwart Gunners won the title in Austria last season. They won the Finals series 3-2 against Gmunden. Nikiola Gacesa will replace Bernd Volcic in Oberwart.

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  SINGAPORE   


Malaysia prevail against Singapore in Banting - by Eurobasket News
Malaysia U16 - Singapore U16 74:70

Malaysia registered the first win at the U16 SEABA Championship in Banting. The hosts held off Singapore to improve at 1-1 record. Yip How Chua provided 25 points to lead the charge.
Malaysia surged ahead early in the game. They posted an 18:12 lead after ten minutes of action. Singapore reacted in the second term. They denied the deficit and posted a 35:34 halftime lead. Malaysia regained control early in the third quarter. They registered a 55:51 advantage with ten minutes remaining. Malaysia kept the pressure on Singapore in the fourth term and snatched a tough win at the end. Hong Tan (189-F-95) and Zhi Tan (178-G-95) added 9 points each in the victory. Yuan Xing (184-F-96) replied with 21 points and 8 rebounds for Singapore. Toh Qing (183-F-95), Jun Alistier (183-F-96) and Chiang Kok (199-C-95) produced 12 points each in the loss.

Malaysia U16: Yip How Chua 25, Hong Tan 9, Zhi Tan 9
Singapore U16: Yuan Xing 21, Toh Qing 12, Jun Alistier 12, Chiang Kok 12



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  SLOVAKIA   


Justin Sedlak sign with Caceres 2016 C.B - by Eurobasket News
Justin Sedlak (205-F-87) sign with Caceres 2016 C.B after 5 years with his NCAA2 team. The Slovakia Forward comes back to Europe and will play in Spain.
In 2004-2005 he started for BC Sparta Praha (Czech Republic) junior team. In 2005-2006 played for BC Sparta Praha (Czech Republic-NBL), and in Nov.'05 joined USK Praha U20 team where his stats read 18.7ppg, 11.5rpg.
In 2006-2007 Justin joined Florida Tech (NCAA2) and in his first season debuted with 10.1ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 51.9%. In his last season there he improved to 20.0ppg, 7.6rpg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 71.5%.
Justin Sedlak is a Slovakian National Team member. At the Qualifications to European Championships Division B in 2010 he averaged 2.7ppg, 2.0rpg. Over the last two years he was also in All-SSC 2nd Team -08, 10, Daktronics NCAA Division II All-South Region 2nd Team -10, All-SSC Summary 2010-2011 1st Team -11, NABC Division II All-South Region 2nd Team -11 and Daktronics Division II All-America 2nd Team -11.


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  SOUTH KOREA   


William Jones Cup. South Korea cruise past Taiwan to win preliminary round - by Eurobasket News
South Korea - Taiwan 110:68

South Korea earned the sixth victory at the William Jones Cup. They stormed past Taiwan to clinch 6-1 record. South Korea claimed the top position after the preliminary round. The teams are scheduled to meet again tomorrow in the semis as Taiwan finished in the fourth spot. Cho Sung-Min (189-F-83) provided 24 points to lead the winners.
South Korea led by just three points after ten minutes 19:16. But they erupted for 30 points in the second frame to earn a 49:33 halftime lead. South Korea maintained the lead throughout the third stanza. They arrived at the final break up by 26 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Kim Yong-Hwan (195-F-84) contributed 17 points, while Yang Hee-Jong (194-F-84) netted 15 points for South Korea. Chien Chia-Hung (197-F-87) replied with 29 points for Taiwan. Tsung-Hsien Chang (192-G-88) and Creighton Douglas (195-F-85) accounted for 11 points each in the loss.

South Korea: Cho Sung-Min 24, Kim Yong-Hwan 17, Yang Hee-Jong 15
Taiwan: Chien Chia-Hung 29, Tsung-Hsien Chang 11, Creighton Douglas 11


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  SPAIN   


CB Granada keep Manuel Rodriguez and Hernandez Angel, sign Federico Ucles - by Eurobasket News
CB Granada keep Manuel Rodriguez (192-G-91) and Angel Hernandez (196-F-91) for the next season.
Manuel Rodriguez is a Spanish Guard who joined the team in 2009-2010. He played also at Albolote Fundacion C.B. Granada (EBA, starting five) and in 29 games averaged 12.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.3apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 44%, 3PT: 38%, FT: 77%. Last season for CB Granada (ACB, starting five) in 12 games he had 0.8ppg.
Angel Hernandez is a Spanish Forward who appeared in the team in 2009-2010. In 30 games he showed 11.5ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.7apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 56%, 3PT: 28%, FT: 59%. Last season his stats read 17 games: 1.1ppg.
Federico Ucles (201-C-93) played for CB Granada Jr two years ago. In 2009-2010 he moved to Albolote Fundacion C.B. Granada (EBA) and in 17 games averaged 6.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 2FGP: 58%, 3PT: 33%, FT: 61%. In 2010-2011 he played for C.B. Grupo Salmeron Guadix (EBA, starting five) and in 20 games averaged 10.9ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 55.4%.


Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca joins Valladolid - by Eurobasket News
According to Solobasket, Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca (212-C-83) will play next season for Blancos de Rueda Valladolid. The Spanish big guy spent the last one with Bizkaia Bilbao Basket, but with limited playing time. He appeared 36 times in ACB averaging 4.1 points and 3.6 rebounds. Bilbao reached ACB Finals, where they failed against Regal Barca. Hernandez-Sonseca joined Bilbao last summer from DKV Joventut. He played three years for the Badalona team. Season 2008/09 was the best one for Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca, who had 10.9 ppg and 4.9 rpg in 10 Euroleague games that season. He added 7.9 ppg and 5.5 rpg for 33 games in ACB. Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca spent couple of years with Real Madrid in the past. He also has experience from Gran Canaria. Hernandez-Sonseca won the ULEB Cup titles in 2007 and 2008 with Real and Joventut. He also was ACB champion with Real in 2007 and Copa del Rey winner with Joventut a year later.

Assignia Manresa wants to return Josh Asselin - by Eurobasket News
Assignia Manresa wants to return their former player Josh Asselin (211-C/F-78, agency: Duran International, college: Michigan). The American/Dominican big guy spent last season with Asefa Estudiantes Madrid. He played 32 games in ACB registering 7.5 ppg and 4.1 rpg. Asselin also added 10.3 ppg and 3.4 rpg in 14 EuroCup games. Season 2009/10 Josh Asselin split between Cajasol Sevilla and Murcia. With Murcia he had 7.9 ppg and 6 rpg for 16 league games. Asselin was a member of Manresa from 2006 to 2009. He helped them win LEB Gold championship in 2007 and of course the promotion to ACB. All three years Asselin was one of the best Manresa players. He had about 14.5 pg and 6 rpg in three years. In the past, Josh Asselin played for Pau-Orthez, Caceres, Cantabria Lobos and Clermont. He also played for the Dominican National Team in 2005 and 2006.

Justin Sedlak sign with Caceres 2016 C.B - by Eurobasket News
Justin Sedlak (205-F-87) sign with Caceres 2016 C.B after 5 years with his NCAA2 team. The Slovakia Forward comes back to Europe and will play in Spain.
In 2004-2005 he started for BC Sparta Praha (Czech Republic) junior team. In 2005-2006 played for BC Sparta Praha (Czech Republic-NBL), and in Nov.'05 joined USK Praha U20 team where his stats read 18.7ppg, 11.5rpg.
In 2006-2007 Justin joined Florida Tech (NCAA2) and in his first season debuted with 10.1ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 51.9%. In his last season there he improved to 20.0ppg, 7.6rpg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 71.5%.
Justin Sedlak is a Slovakian National Team member. At the Qualifications to European Championships Division B in 2010 he averaged 2.7ppg, 2.0rpg. Over the last two years he was also in All-SSC 2nd Team -08, 10, Daktronics NCAA Division II All-South Region 2nd Team -10, All-SSC Summary 2010-2011 1st Team -11, NABC Division II All-South Region 2nd Team -11 and Daktronics Division II All-America 2nd Team -11.


British Daniel Clark stays with Asefa Estudiantes - by Eurobasket News
British Daniel Clark (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) stays with Asefa Estudiantes for 2011/2012 season. The player remains with the team since year 2005.
In 2005-2006 Daniel Clark joined Adecco Estudiantes Madrid 2nd Team (Spain-EBA) and then in 2006-2007 played also at Adecco Estudiantes Madrid 2nd Team (EBA). In 7 games he averaged 13.9ppg, 8.1rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 54.0%, 3FGP: 33.0%, FT: 75.0%. In 2007-2008 started for MMT Estudiantes Madrid (Spain-ACB) and in 4 games had 1.8ppg, but in Dec.'07 was loaned to Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five). In 25 games his stats read 5.8ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 70.0%.
The season 2008-2009 also started for MMT Estudiantes Madrid and in Feb.'09 was loaned to Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five). In 2009-2010 for MMT Estudiantes Madrid (Spain-ACB) played in 23 games showing 4.3ppg, 1.8rpg. Last season played in EuroCup and in 13 games had 7.9ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 70.4%. In Spanish League his stats read 5.8ppg, 2.5rpg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 80.0%.


Stephane Lasme joins Obradoiro CAB - by Eurobasket Center
Obradoiro CAB agreed terms with 29-year old Gabonese forward Stephane Lasme (203-F-82, college: Massachusetts). Lasme played most recently at Maine Red Claws (D-League) in the U.S. While playing 10 games for Maine RC last season his stats were: 7.0ppg and 6.0rpg. He tried to sign in Europe last season. But despite negotiations with Spartak St.Petersburg in Russia went well, Lasme was unable to join the club due to technical issues regarding his green card application in the United States. Then he tried to make Boston Celtics roster before being cut, which ended with him playing in D-League. Lasme is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Israel, Russia and Serbia. The last successful season was two years ago while Lasme played for Maccabi Tel-Aviv in Israel. He helped the team to win Israeli Cup and Israeli Regular Season, before they lost in the finals. Macacbi made that year to Euroleague Quarterfinals.

By Eurobasket Data Center



Leon keeps coach Javi De Grado, signs Mario Diez - by Eurobasket News
Baloncesto Leon announced signing of a one-year contract extension with their Head Coach Javi de Grado . At the same time they penned a deal with Mario Diez (188-G-82). The Spanish point guard is back to LEB Gold after one year. He spent last season with EBA team Dominicas La Palma. For 10 games with them he had 6.9 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 2 apg. Diez joined the club in February. From 2008 until the last summer Mario Diez was a member of Gestiberica Ciudad de Vigo. He helped them win promotion from LEB Silver to LEB Gold in 2009. In their second season together he had 2.4 ppg for 25 games. Mario Diez also has experience from Burgos and Caja Rioja. He played for Leon from 2001 to 2004, when they competed in EBA.

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  SWEDEN   


John Cantrell joins Sodertalje Kings - by Eurobasket News
John Cantrell (188-G, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Chicago St.) is a new member of Sodertalje Kings. The American guard signed a one-year deal and will replace Johnell Smith. Cantrell heads to his new club from Lebanese Byblos. Actually, he played just four games with them last season averaging 17 points, 6 rebounds, 2.8 assist and 1.8 steals after what they parted ways. During 2009/10 season, John Cantrell spent some time with Al Arabi Club. They competed in Qatari Division One. Cantrell is a product of the Chicago State University, where he graduated in 2009. He played 32 games for his school as a senior registering 19.8 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 2.2 apg and 2.3 spg. Cantrell also had pretty good numbers as a junior. At that time he had 15.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 2.1 apg for 28 games.

Sweden drive past Belarus in Minsk - by Eurobasket News
Belarus - Sweden 77:86

Sweden recorded the fourth win in Group B of 2011 EuroBasket Division B Qualifying Round. They overcame Belarus on the road tonight. Johan Jeansson (197-G-85) stepped up with 19 points to lead the Scandinavian side. Belarus fell at 1-4 record after the loss.
Belarus stayed in front for the better part of the opening quarter. The hosts ensured a 22:19 lead at the first break. But the visitors stunned Belarus with a 13:2 run at the start of the second frame. Sweden maintained the lead and posted a 40:34 halftime lead. Things hardly changed for Belarus in the third term. They lagged behind throughout the period facing a 55:63 deficit with ten minutes to go. Johan Jeansson made it a 10-point game early in the final frame. Belarus never got closer than 7 points in the reminder of the contest as Sweden celebrated the victory at the end. Anton Gaddefors (200-F-89) knocked down 11 points, while Erik Rush (195-G) had 10 points in the win. Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) answered with 13 points for Belarus. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) netted 11 points in defeat.

Belarus: Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 13, Artsiom Parakhouski 11
Sweden: Johan Jeansson 19, Anton Gaddefors 11, Erik Rush 10


Exclusive interview with Vedran Bosnic, the coach of the year in Sweden! - by Johan Andersson
Exclusive interview with Vedran Bosnic , the coach of the year in Sweden, and one of the most talented young coaches in Europe!

- How do you feel as the winner of the best coach reward in Sweden during your first season?

I would lie if I would say that it does not flatter me. However, what makes me really happy is the way my team played last season. I am happy with individual development of all my play-ers who accepted hard work and always gave maximum, and we eventually gained good re-sults. The reward is just an encouragement for us to work even harder and achieve even better results.

-You have a lot of international experience since you played in 9 different countries and at lmost all levels. How much did that help you in your coaching career?

It helped a lot; this experience is a great fortune, especially because I was lucky to have great coaches as Mladen Ostojic, Dule Vujosevic, Jonas Zazlauskas, Vlado Vanjak, If you take a little bit from each of them it can help you a lot, but most important is that you have your own ideas and that your follow your own philosophy.

- What is the difference between Swedish and European basketball?

There are many differences especially in the way of work and in mentality. Swedish basketball league has advanced a lot recently which can be seen from development of young players. There are more and more of them in big European clubs. The Swedish league is much stronger than it is actually perceived in Europe. Unfortunately, only one Swedish club played in Europe last year. It is Norrkoping. They were among 16 in FIBA Challenge. I am of the opin-ion that at least 2-3 of Swedish clubs should take part in European competitions and that would help a lot in basketball development in Sweden.

- What do you think should be done to add more quality to Swedish basketball?

Above all, quality work with young people which automatically means better coaches in youth selections. There is a plenty of talent in Sweden, we just need to keep quality work and invest in youth.
My club and a couple of other clubs have a good vision for youth, but it can not be said in general and for all clubs unfortunately.
I think that the system of competition should be extended from 6 months to 7-8 months, plus there should be a play off organized after the season, so that young players have more room for improvement.

- How do you see Swedish NT in future?

Sweden has a very good potential in young players and in new generations, but these players have to grow up professionally to reach high basketball standards. I see Sweden at the Euro-pean Championship very soon, because with the new system of competition it will be much easier to enter the Championship and compete with European teams of the highest quality. I would be surprised if that does not happen in the coming years.

- What do you expect your team to make during the next season?

It is too early to talk about it because most of the clubs including us have not finalized rosters yet. What I can say at the moment is that my wish is certainly to play quality basketball again, basketball which is very recognizable and solely based on a quality defense. Development of my players in professional and personal sense is my priority and my goal.

- What are your expectations and personal aspirations in terms of development of your career?

First of all I wish to learn more and I hope to get more opportunities to work with top profes-sionals on top levels. Every year basketball gets a larger dimension and that fascinates me. I am totally concentrated on my work with Sodertalje Kings and thats all I am interested in, and whether I will take over a bigger European team is something that time will show soon.

Thank you for the interview Vedran. Eurobasket wishes you a lot of success in your career.


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  SWITZERLAND   


BBC Nyon lands Ryan Dermody - by Eurobasket News
Ryan Dermody (206-F-87) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American power forward signed a deal with BBC Nyon for the next season. He missed the entire 2010/11. Dermody graduated at the University of Wyoming a year ago. For 31 games as a senior he averaged 5.5 points and 3.3 rebounds. As a junior Dermody played just seven games for his school. He had 1.6 ppg and 1.9 rpg. However, in 2007/08 he was one of the better players in Wyoming. For 30 games he collected 9.3 ppg and 5.3 rpg. He helped his school reach MWC Tournament Semifinals twice. Ryan Dermody received All-State and All-Area Player of the Year honors in 2009 and 2010.

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  TAIWAN   


William Jones Cup. South Korea cruise past Taiwan to win preliminary round - by Eurobasket News
South Korea - Taiwan 110:68

South Korea earned the sixth victory at the William Jones Cup. They stormed past Taiwan to clinch 6-1 record. South Korea claimed the top position after the preliminary round. The teams are scheduled to meet again tomorrow in the semis as Taiwan finished in the fourth spot. Cho Sung-Min (189-F-83) provided 24 points to lead the winners.
South Korea led by just three points after ten minutes 19:16. But they erupted for 30 points in the second frame to earn a 49:33 halftime lead. South Korea maintained the lead throughout the third stanza. They arrived at the final break up by 26 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Kim Yong-Hwan (195-F-84) contributed 17 points, while Yang Hee-Jong (194-F-84) netted 15 points for South Korea. Chien Chia-Hung (197-F-87) replied with 29 points for Taiwan. Tsung-Hsien Chang (192-G-88) and Creighton Douglas (195-F-85) accounted for 11 points each in the loss.

South Korea: Cho Sung-Min 24, Kim Yong-Hwan 17, Yang Hee-Jong 15
Taiwan: Chien Chia-Hung 29, Tsung-Hsien Chang 11, Creighton Douglas 11


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  TURKEY   


Hacettepe Universitesi agreed with Sherron Collins - by Eurobasket News
Hacettepe Universitesi agreed with Sherron Collins (180-G-87, college: Kansas) for 2011/2012 season. The American Guard comes from Quebradillas Pirates, Puerto Rico.
In 2006-2007 he started for Kansas (NCAA) and in 38 games averaged 9.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 76.6%. In his last season there he improved to 15.5ppg, 2.1rpg, 4.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 85.5%.
In 2010 signed 2-Year contract with Charlotte Bobcats (NBA). The season 2010-2011 for Charlotte Bobcats (NBA) averaged 1.1ppg. In Dec.'10 was assigned to Maine Red Claws (D-League) and in 5 games had 12.0ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 84.2%. In March 2011 moved to Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (Lithuania-LKL), left shortly. In June 2011 joined Quebradillas Pirates (Puerto Rico-BSN), left shortly. Quebradillas decided to part ways with Sherron Collins (180-G-87, college: Kansas) just one day after his arrival. According to some sources, the former NBA player was not in shape and that was the reason why Quebradillas decided not to keep him.
Sherron Collins started the season with the Charlotte Bobcats. He appeared 16 times in the NBA averaging 1.1 points. In December, the Bobcats assigned him to their affiliate Maine Red Claws, where Collins had 12 ppg, 1.6 rpg and 3.2 apg for 5 games. In March, Collins moved to Lietuvos Rytas but they parted ways soon after that.


Germany surprised the hosts of the Spor Toto World Cup - by Eurobasket News
Germany NT-Turkey NT 79:72

Germany surprised the hosts of the Spor Toto World Cup in Day 2 of the tournament. The team even without Nowitski and Kaman edged Turkey 79:72 for the second straight win.
The score was tied at 13:13 in the middle of the first period, while Germany took 21:20 at the end of it. Philip Zwiener and Lucca Staiger created a 7-0 run for 28:20, while Germany won the first half 43:35. They needed another 8-0 run to take 63:50 on the third period. Hedo Turkoglu (206-F-79) managed to close the period at 63:54. Omer Onan (194-G-78) later cut it to 67:60, while Turkey pulled back to 71:68. Baris Ermis reduced to 76:72, but Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) made two free throws for 78:72. Turkey fouled again and Robin Benzing (208-F-89) brought the final result in the game.
Tibor Pleiss (214-F/C-89) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 8 rebounds, while Robin Benzing added 16 points and 8 rebounds. Heiko Schaffartzik brought 15 and Schwetheim netted 7.

Germany NT: Tibor Pleiss 20+8 rebs, Robin Benzing 16+8 rebs, Heiko Schaffartzik 15
Turkey NT: Omer Onan 22, Ersan Ilyasova (207-F-87) 10, Hedo Turkoglu 10


Genc Telekom signs Can Ozkaner - by Eurobasket News
Can Ozkaner (195-G) is back to Turkey. The 23-year-old guard graduated few months ago at the Le Moyne College. They competed in NCAA2. In his senior season Ozkaner averaged 6.8 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists for his school. They reached Northeast-10 Tournament Finals in 2009. Can Ozkaner spent four years with Le Moyne without transferring. In the past, he played for Mulkiyespor Ankara and Darussafaka. Ozkaner can be used on positions 2 and 3. Genc Telekom was runner-up in TB2L Group A in last season. Recently, they signed Hazer Avci.

Olin Edrine brings in Mustafa Abi - by Eurobasket News
Olin Edrine announced signing of Mustafa Abi (197-G-79) for the next season. The Turkish guard heads to his new club from Besiktas, where he spent 2010/11. Abi appeared 28 times in TBL averaging 2.2 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists. He also added 2.6 ppg, 1.6 rpg and 1.4 apg for 7 games in EuroCup. Mustafa Abi played for ITU Istanbul in 2009/10. He shined with 20.1 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 2.7 apg for 21 games in TB2L. From 2004 to 2009, Abi was a member of Efes Pilsen. Before that he spent one year with Besiktas and two with Ulker. In the past, he spent couple of years with Fenerbahce. Mustafa Abi played for the Turkish National Team in 2000 and 2004. He won one Turkish league title and three Cup trophies in his career. In 2010, Abi was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish TB2L Honorable Mention -10.

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  TURKMENISTAN   


Uzbekistan edge Turkmenistan to advance into Fiba Asia Championship - by Eurobasket News
Uzbekistan - Turkmenistan 82:59

Uzbekistan earned a crucial win over Turkmenistan to advance into the Fiba Asia Championship in Wuhan, China. These were the only two teams participating in Stan division qualifying tournament. Aleksandr Kozlov (202-F-82) scored 23 points and Uzbekistan sealed the winning outcome in Navoi.
The hosts led by as many as 9 points at the first break 22:13. Uzbekistan maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 13 points 44:31. Uzbekistan held their opponents to just 11 points in the third term to boost the lead. They never looked back en route to the victory afterwards. Aleksandr Yahin (206-C-89) provided 14 points, while Hurmatjon Nuraliev (201-F-81) and Samender Juginisov (202-F-87) accounted for 10 points each in the win. Aleksandr Pashkov (191-G-85) responded with 14 points for Turkmenistan. Maksim Otbozin (211-C-80) netted 12 points in defeat.

Uzbekistan: Aleksandr Kozlov 23, Aleksandr Yahin 14, Hurmatjon Nuraliev 10, Samender Juginisov 10
Turkmenistan: Aleksandr Pashkov 14, Maksim Otbozin 12



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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Summer Session: Aaron Brown went to work in the Bahamas. - by David Edole
By Jeremy Bauman- Slam Magazine / @JBauman13

Aaron Brown (195-G-92), Temples 6-4 rising sophomore shooting guard, understands the work that he must put in during the summer time to be successful. A native of the Virgin Islands, Brown participated in the Caribbean Basketball Confederation this year.

The tournament took place in Nassau, Bahamas, explained Brown. It was for the Caribbean championshipto qualify for the Centro Basket tournament next year. The competition was real good. There were a few college players, but mostly overseas and NBA players.

Among others, some of the notable players who Brown recalled from the tournament were Walter Hodge (Florida 07), Julius Hodge (NC State 05) Patrick Ewing Jr (GTown 08), Philip Jones (Charlotte 11), Greg Washington (Hofstra 11), and Ivan Aska (Murray State 12)all of whom will be playing professionally overseas in some regard next season.

After years of playing for the Virgin Islands younger teams, Brown earned his spot on this years VI squad after years of dedication to his island in the summer time.

It started three years ago when I played with the 17U team in Mexico, and was a major part of winning a bronze medal, explained Brown. From then on, I earned my spot every summer to be apart of the Mens Senior Team.

Making the team and sitting on the bench is one thing. Browna 19-year-olddidnt go to the Bahamas to ride a bench during the summer time. As a person I would say that I learned to be more. Being the youngest in the tournament, coming off the bench, and still being the second leading scorer for the championship team is pretty impressive.

And while playing (28 mpg), scoring (17 ppg) and, ultimately, winning were a valuable part of the experience, the on-court learning process never stopped for Brown on this memorable trip to the Caribbean.

Well every summer I go to play I learn something new, said Brown. As a player, this year I learned a lot about the pace of the game, and knowing when to attack and when to run some offense.

The learning didnt stop there, though. After being up by 20 in the championship game against the Bahamas, the VI clearly had a Thunder-esque episode of complacencyalthough they (barely) pulled off the win, 91-89. Brown will always remember that game.

Being up 20 practically the whole game and only winning by twothat tells you that you can never get complacent. That will help me out a lot for school to keep my mindset in the right perspective, so that Im able to my best work this year on the court.

Other than that, Brown is appreciative for the opportunity to be featured here at SLAMonline and has a few shout outs hed like to distribute.

I just want to say thanks for this opportunity again. I want to thank all the members of the team for bringing back a championship to the VI. Big shout out to my big brother, Jareem Dowling at Morehead State now, who recently placed third in the 17U games in Puerto Rico last week. Last but not least be on the lookout for Temple this season and follow my journey @2ABEEZY2!

Be sure to check back in with Aaron Brown in October for a pre-season discussion about his upcoming season at Temple and the Owls outlook/expectations for the 11-12 season.



Hoyas Takes NBBA Finals Opener in Overtime - by David Edole
BY Dave Davis- August 11, 2011

The Hoyas outscored Guidance 14-5 in overtime to take game one of the New Breed Basketball Association finals, 83-74.

Karl John, who played the entire game, was the man for the Hoyas down the stretch, scoring 12 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter and in the overtime period.

It is always good to take the first game of a series. said Hoyas Coach, Sammie Lee. I made some mistakes with the early substitutions and we had to battle from then, but that is what the Hoyas like to do, battle.

The Guidance squad, who did not play their best game, had opportunities in the fourth quarter as they led by as many as five points. However, a potential game-winning free throw came up just short to send the game into overtime.

The fans that came to the Ronald Charles gymnasium Wednesday were treated to Virgin Islands championship basketball at it best as the two teams, who have won the previous two NBBA titles, hooked up in the 2011 finals. Guidance is going for back to back titles and the Hoyas going for their fifth title in six years. Together they put on a show for the local fans, many of whom were on their feet for most of the thrilling fourth period and all of overtime.

Guidance started the game on a 5-0 run only to see the Hoyas responded with a 22-7 run to take a 22-12 lead at the end of the first quarter. Darnel Hendrickson led the way for the Hoyas with nine points in the period.
Guidance got seven points apiece from Marcello Jacobs and Kitwana Rhymer (208-C-78, college: Massachusetts) in their 18-15 second quarter to trail by seven at the half, 37-30.

Led by AQ St. Hillare and Kitwana Rhymer, Guidance surged in the third quarter, outscoring the Hoyas 23-13 to come all the way back from being down by as many as 15 points. They took a 53-50 lead heading into the fourth.

The final quarter was as physical as they come, with both team leaving it all on the floor. The Hoyas were clinging to a one point lead at 69-68 when a foul sent Guidances Shakeem Edwards to the line with a chance to tie or give his team the lead with 3.5 seconds left. He was short on the first but converted the second to send the game into overtime after the Hoyas missed a wild attempt.

In the overtime Karl John took charge on both ends of the floor. He disrupted the flow of the Guidance offense while netting six of his teams 14 overtime points as the Hoyas pulled away for 83-74 victory.

Burger had one of his best shooting games of the season to lead three Hoyas in double figures with 29 points. He got good support from point guard Eddie Castillo, who finished with 21 points, and John who finished with 19 points, ten rebound and six assists. Guidance was led by St. Hillare, who finished with 20 points. Rhymer had 17 points and 16 rebounds and Edwards who had 11 before fouling out.



All-CBC Championships Awards 2011 - MEN - by David Edole
Best Player: Cuthbert Victor (196-F-83, college: Murray St.) (196-F-83) of U.S. Virgin Islands
Best Guard: Akeem Scott (186-PG-83) of Jamaica
Best Forward: Cuthbert Victor (196-F-83) of U.S. Virgin Islands
Best Center: Kleon Penn (211-C-86) of British Virgin Islands
Best Coach: Milton Barnes of U.S. Virgin Islands

1st Team
PG: Akeem Scott (186-83) of Jamaica
PG: Walter Hodge (183-PG-86, college: Florida) (183-86) of U.S. Virgin Islands
F: Cuthbert Victor (196-83) of U.S. Virgin Islands
F: Ryan Reid (203-86) of Jamaica
C: Kleon Penn (211-86) of British Virgin Islands

2nd Team
G: Keron McKenzie (193-86) of Guyana
G: Kevin Sheppard (182-G-79, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Jacksonville) (182-79) of U.S. Virgin Islands
G/F: Sullivan Phillips (198-79) of Bermudas
F: Patrick Ewing Jr. (203-84) of Jamaica
F: Jaraun Burrows (203-85) of Bahamas

Honorable Mention
Rashid Cann (183-G-86) of British Virgin Islands
Jean-Rony Cadeau (87) of Bahamas
Randolph Williams (188-G-76) of Saint Vincent
Lezlo McKenzie (G-79) of Saint Vincent
Lennox McCoy (188-G-77) of Antigua
Hodge Julius (201-G-83) of Antigua
Jason Lowe (85) of Bermudas
Ivan Aska (200-F-90) (200-F-90) of U.S. Virgin Islands
Kennedy Bass (196-F-81) of British Virgin Islands

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  UKRAINE   


Serbian National team edged Ukraine in Day 2 of the Spor Toto World Cup - by Eurobasket News
Serbia NT-Ukraine NT 83:57

Serbian National team edged Ukraine in Day 2 of the Spor Toto World Cup in Izmir. The Serbian side needed a strong second half for 83:57 victory to tie the record at 1-1. Ukraine lost the second game in a row to fall at 0-2.
Both teams nailed 21 points each in the opening period as Kyrylo Fesenko (213-C-86) closed the frame with a jump shot. Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) ad Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) scored for 29:26, while Ukraine reduced to 38:37 at the halftime. Serbia started to play better in the second half and pushed the tempo for good. They had 51:45 midway through the period and reached 60:48 after thirty minutes. Moreover Dusko Savanovic closed a 14-1 run to bring 74:49 in the last period. Serbia added 23-9 in it for the final success.
Dusko Savanovic stepped up with 22 points and Nenad Krstic (214-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) nailed 15. Aleksandar Rasic (195-G-84, agency: Beo Basket) notched 13, while Milan Macvan scored 9. Steve Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) ended up with 12 points and Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87, agency: Beo Basket) posted 8. Kyrylo Fesenko delivered 7, whilst Oleksiy Pecherov added 6 points and 6 rebounds.

Serbia NT: Dusko Savanovic 22, Nenad Krstic 15, Aleksandar Rasic 13, Milan Macvan 9
Ukraine NT:Steve Burtt 12, Viacheslav Kravtsov 8, Kyrylo Fesenko 7, Oleksiy Pecherov 6


*****************************************************
  UNITED ARAB EMIRATES   


William Jones Cup. Malaysia register first win in New Taipei City - by Eurobasket News
Malaysia - UAE 100:89

Malaysia recorded the initial win at the William Jones Cup. They held off UAE to improve at 1-6 record. Yoong Jing Kwaan (200-C-90) knocked down 24 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to pace the effort. UAE fell at 0-7 record and finished at the bottom of the ladder.
The teams stayed closer throughout the opening quarter. Malaysia and UAE entered the second term tied at 23. UAE pulled ahead for a one-point lead 44:43 halftime lead. Malaysia erased the deficit as the teams arrived at the final intermission tied at 67. Malaysia unleashed 33 points in the fourth quarter and pulled ahead for the victory at the end. Ban Sin Ooi (180-G/F-83) notched 19 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, while Li Wei Chee (186-F-85) delivered 17 points in the victory. Omar Alameri responded with 20 points for UAE. Rashed Al Zaabi (188-G-88) accounted for 19 points in the loss.

Malaysia: Yoong Jing Kwaan 24, Ban Sin Ooi 19, Li Wei Chee 17
UAE: Omar Alameri 20, Rashed Al Zaabi 19


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


Heat Is On For Coach Raftopoulos - by Paul Nilsen
Creon Raftopoulos has been re-signed as head coach for Guildford Heat for the 2011/2012 season. He is currently pulling his BBL team together in time for the first home game at Surrey Sports Park, which is a BBL Trophy game against Plymouth Raiders on Sunday 2 October.

Creon Raftopoulos commented, 'It is a privilege to be head coach of a team with such strong history. Guildford Heat's managing director, Alison Reeve and I share the same vision for the club and it is with real excitement that I approach the new season.

'Last season was pretty successful after the trials and tribulations which the club and team went through. We set a goal of making the Play Offs, which we achieved and we had the added bonus of reaching the BBL Trophy final. This season we are looking to improve on our 7th place finish and push as hard as we can for success on and off the court. I want our players to put on a show of heart and commitment during every game so that our fans return in their numbers for the next game knowing what to expect.'

Announcements about player signings will be made over the next few weeks. There will be a chance to see the new 2011/2012 team in action at a pre-season game at the end of September.



Rocks Go For Wedemire - by Paul Nilsen
The Glasgow Rocks have secured their 3rd major signing for the 2011/12 BBL season in the form of 6'6' Guard/Forward Andrew Wedemire (198-G/F). Canadian born Wedermire has been part of the Western Mustangs (University of Western Ontario) for the past 5 years and will be looking to make his professional debut with the Glasgow Rocks this season.

In his final year at Western, Wedemire averaged 18.1 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game with his versatility being a major attribute to his all round game.
Glasgow Rocks Player/Coach Sterling Davis had the following to say about the new signing for the Rocks:

'Andrew had a very solid college career especially during his last two seasons. He has the versatility to play multiple positions on the floor which is always a good characteristic to have as a player and something I thrive on trying to recruit in. In addition he is a very smart kid and player that is hungry to prove himself within the professional ranks'

The Rocks have now confirmed three signings for the upcoming 2011/12 BBL Season with a hope of more to come in the next few days as the beginning of the season is only a few weeks away.

Glasgow Rocks General Manager, Daniel Bajwoluk, had this to say about Wedemire and the upcoming 2011/12 season.

'We are slowly getting to where we want to be for the start of the BBL season. Every signature is a step closer for us in establishing a team that can compete for Silverware this season. Wedemire brings with him a solid 6'6' frame as well as a certified inside/outside game. His agility on the court is sure to be an asset and we are hoping that his size will pose match-up problems for our opponents'.

The Rocks tip-off their BBL Trophy season on the road as they travel to Newcastle on Friday 30th September. Their first Home Game of 2011/12 is to be held on Sunday 9th October at 5:00pm in Kelvin Hall against the Durham Wildcats.



UK team entices Ron Artest - by Eurobasket News
The Cheshire Jets are offering to help Ron Artest (6'7''-G/F-79, college: St.John's) grow his off-court profile in the United Kingdom as a means of enticing the Los Angeles Lakers' swingman to play with the British Basketball League club this fall in the event of an extended NBA lockout.

Jets director Peter Hawkins told ESPN.com Thursday that his team, in an attempt to offset the monetary limitations it faces compared to clubs from bigger leagues in Europe, will try to get Artest prominent TV work in England, should he agree to join the Jets.

'You'll appreciate that we haven't got the means to entice someone of Ron's standing on financial grounds,' Hawkins said. 'Our commitment is to help raise Ron's profile in the UK in order to help him develop his music and movie career over here while playing basketball.'

One possibility, according to a source with knowledge of the Jets' plans, is trying to find Artest a role on a British soap opera.

Artest's publicist, Courtney Barnes, said that Artest will be in the United Kingdom Aug. 18-23 and is scheduled to meet with the Jets during his stay to discuss options outside of basketball available to him.

'Ron is just going to the UK to take a meeting,' Barnes said in a phone interview with ESPNLosAngeles.com Thursday. 'That's it.

'There's no deal in place for him to play. ... He is just going to see the lay of the land.'

It became clear Tuesday that Artest is giving serious consideration to playing in England this fall, despite the BBL's modest standing in terms of world basketball, when he posted the following message via his Twitter feed: 'Go Jets!!!!! Uk , here we come!!! Jets are the best!!! Jets are the best!!! New chant!!!!!!!!!'

On the team's website, Hawkins said: 'We are honored that Ron has even mentioned the prospect of joining the Jets. Financially we have nothing to offer him, but it would be so significant for UK basketball, we have offered him a stake in the club and all the love in the world!'

According to FIBA rules announced in late July, Artest would have to make a signed declaration to return to the Lakers as soon the NBA lockout ends if he indeed signs with Cheshire.

The 31-year-old averaged 8.5 points per game last season while appearing in all 82 games for the Lakers. Artest has three years and $21 million left on his contract.

Courtesy of ESPN

British Daniel Clark stays with Asefa Estudiantes - by Eurobasket News
British Daniel Clark (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) stays with Asefa Estudiantes for 2011/2012 season. The player remains with the team since year 2005.
In 2005-2006 Daniel Clark joined Adecco Estudiantes Madrid 2nd Team (Spain-EBA) and then in 2006-2007 played also at Adecco Estudiantes Madrid 2nd Team (EBA). In 7 games he averaged 13.9ppg, 8.1rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 54.0%, 3FGP: 33.0%, FT: 75.0%. In 2007-2008 started for MMT Estudiantes Madrid (Spain-ACB) and in 4 games had 1.8ppg, but in Dec.'07 was loaned to Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five). In 25 games his stats read 5.8ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 70.0%.
The season 2008-2009 also started for MMT Estudiantes Madrid and in Feb.'09 was loaned to Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five). In 2009-2010 for MMT Estudiantes Madrid (Spain-ACB) played in 23 games showing 4.3ppg, 1.8rpg. Last season played in EuroCup and in 13 games had 7.9ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 70.4%. In Spanish League his stats read 5.8ppg, 2.5rpg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 80.0%.


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


Uzbekistan edge Turkmenistan to advance into Fiba Asia Championship - by Eurobasket News
Uzbekistan - Turkmenistan 82:59

Uzbekistan earned a crucial win over Turkmenistan to advance into the Fiba Asia Championship in Wuhan, China. These were the only two teams participating in Stan division qualifying tournament. Aleksandr Kozlov (202-F-82) scored 23 points and Uzbekistan sealed the winning outcome in Navoi.
The hosts led by as many as 9 points at the first break 22:13. Uzbekistan maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 13 points 44:31. Uzbekistan held their opponents to just 11 points in the third term to boost the lead. They never looked back en route to the victory afterwards. Aleksandr Yahin (206-C-89) provided 14 points, while Hurmatjon Nuraliev (201-F-81) and Samender Juginisov (202-F-87) accounted for 10 points each in the win. Aleksandr Pashkov (191-G-85) responded with 14 points for Turkmenistan. Maksim Otbozin (211-C-80) netted 12 points in defeat.

Uzbekistan: Aleksandr Kozlov 23, Aleksandr Yahin 14, Hurmatjon Nuraliev 10, Samender Juginisov 10
Turkmenistan: Aleksandr Pashkov 14, Maksim Otbozin 12



*****************************************************
  WILLIAM JONES CUP   


Preliminary Round ends in New Taipei City - by Eurobasket News
Malaysia - UAE 100:89
Malaysia recorded the initial win at the William Jones Cup. They held off UAE to improve at 1-6 record. Yoong Jing Kwaan (200-C-90) knocked down 24 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to pace the effort. UAE fell at 0-7 record and finished at the bottom of the ladder.
The teams stayed closer throughout the opening quarter. Malaysia and UAE entered the second term tied at 23. UAE pulled ahead for a one-point lead 44:43 halftime lead. Malaysia erased the deficit as the teams arrived at the final intermission tied at 67. Malaysia unleashed 33 points in the fourth quarter and pulled ahead for the victory at the end. Ban Sin Ooi (180-G/F-83) notched 19 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, while Li Wei Chee (186-F-85) delivered 17 points in the victory. Omar Alameri responded with 20 points for UAE. Rashed Al Zaabi (188-G-88) accounted for 19 points in the loss.

Malaysia: Yoong Jing Kwaan 24, Ban Sin Ooi 19, Li Wei Chee 17
UAE: Omar Alameri 20, Rashed Al Zaabi 19

Iran - Jordan 68:67
Iran nipped Jordan on the final day of preliminary round at William Jones Cup. Iran thus improved at 5-2 record and occupied the third position. They will now take on Philippines in the semis. Jordan will play for the fifth place at the tournament.
Jordan led 15:11 after ten minutes of action. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the second term. Jordan ensured a 4-point lead at halftime 32:28. Iran however erased the deficit in the third quarter. The teams entered the fourth term tied at 45. Iran scored 23 points and eked out a narrow victory at the end. Hamed Haddadi (218-C-85) tallied 13 points, 13 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 blocks for Iran. Saman Veisi (189-G-82) netted 12 points in the victory. Alkhas Naim (201-F-76) responded with 17 points for Jordan. Rasheim Wright (194-G-81, college: District of Col.) posted 15 points in the loss.

Iran: Hamed Haddadi 13+13 boards, Saman Veisi 12, Saeid Davarpanah (190-G-87) 11
Jordan: Alkhas Naim 17, Rasheim Wright 15

Philippines - Japan 94:78
Philippines recorded the fifth win at the William Jones Cup. They stormed past Japan to earn the second place at the end of preliminary round. Philippines will now take on Iran in the semis tomorrow. Jordan fell at 4-3 record after the defeat and would play against Malaysia in the classification round.
Philippines and Japan stayed competitive in the opening frame. Philippines eked out a 24:20 lead after ten minutes. Japan unloaded 29 points in the second term to pull ahead 49:44 at halftime. Philippines narrowed the gap in the third stanza. They arrived at the final intermission trailing by 3 points. Philippines fired 29 points in the fourth frame and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) scored 32 points to lead the effort. Donaldo Hontiveros (188-G-77) netted 14 points in the winning case. Keijuro Matsui (188-G-85, college: Columbia) responded with 27 points for Japan. Fumio Nishimura (177-G-86) accounted for 11 points in defeat.

Philippines: Marcus Douthit 32, Donaldo Hontiveros 14, Christopher Tiu (178-PG-85) 11
Japan: Keijuro Matsui 27, Fumio Nishimura 11

South Korea - Taiwan 110:68
South Korea earned the sixth victory at the William Jones Cup. They stormed past Taiwan to clinch 6-1 record. South Korea claimed the top position after the preliminary round. The teams are scheduled to meet again tomorrow in the semis as Taiwan finished in the fourth spot. Cho Sung-Min (189-F-83) provided 24 points to lead the winners.
South Korea led by just three points after ten minutes 19:16. But they erupted for 30 points in the second frame to earn a 49:33 halftime lead. South Korea maintained the lead throughout the third stanza. They arrived at the final break up by 26 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Kim Yong-Hwan (195-F-84) contributed 17 points, while Yang Hee-Jong (194-F-84) netted 15 points for South Korea. Chien Chia-Hung (197-F-87) replied with 29 points for Taiwan. Tsung-Hsien Chang (192-G-88) and Creighton Douglas (195-F-85) accounted for 11 points each in the loss.

South Korea: Cho Sung-Min 24, Kim Yong-Hwan 17, Yang Hee-Jong 15
Taiwan: Chien Chia-Hung 29, Tsung-Hsien Chang 11, Creighton Douglas 11


Standings
Standings
1. S.Korea6-1
2. Philippines5-2
3. Iran5-2
4. Taiwan4-3
5. Jordan4-3
6. Japan3-4
7. UAE1-6
8. S.Africa0-0
9. Malaysia0-7




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Women News

*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Deanna Smith returns to her home town to reignite WNBL career - by Eurobasket News
Deanna Smith (179-G-80) is returning to her childhood home to rejuvenate her WNBL career.

The in-form Geelong Lady Supercats star has agreed to join the Bendigo Spirit this summer, the sixth WNBL club she will have suited up for over her career.

Smith grew up in Bendigo and her parents, Robert and Sue, still live in the central Victorian city. The 30-year-old said she was excited about joining a side which went within one game of playing off for last season's WNBL title.

Want to congratulate Deanna on securing a new WNBL contract. Have your say on the feedback form below
'It was definitely the right decision for me and, looking at the team and who they've signed and who's coming back from last year, it's definitely going to be a really good opportunity for me,' Smith said yesterday.

'I really wanted to stay in Victoria. I've loved being in Geelong (this SEABL season) and being able to go back and play WNBL in my town is exciting.'

Smith said she was thrilled by the deal worked out between the Spirit and her managers Stephen Kallis and Jye Watson.

Your Say
'Deanna is a tenacious little champion and despite everything she has gone thru over the years she just keeps coming back !!!!! Well done'
Kel & Docka

'I can't speak highly enough of work they've done,' Smith said of her management team.

'The club have really enjoyed their dealings with him (Kallis) and he's performed above and beyond helping make the deal happen.'

Smith has been a shining light for the Lady Supercats this season and is in contention for the league's overall MVP award.

She's averaging 20.6 points a game and hasn't scored under 20 points in the last six matches.

The 30-year-old guard/forward has not given up on her international career and hopes a strong season on the court with Bendigo will again put her name in front of Australian Opals coach Carrie Graf ahead of next year's London Olympics.

' (But) right now I'm just looking at getting myself in the best shape I can be and playing for the Spirit.'

Smith will join her new teammates as soon as Geelong's SEABL season comes to an end. Smith has played more than 200 WNBL games with the AIS, Canberra, Adelaide, Perth and Sydney.

' (Deanna) is certainly a player that is highly regarded in this league that can make an impact with our team,' Bendigo coach Bernie Harrower said.
Courtesy of: geelongadvertiser.com.au

*****************************************************
  BELGIUM - Women  


Emma Meesseman lifts U18 Belgium to Semifinals in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 BELGIUM - U18 TURKEY 60-58

Belgium is in the Semifinals of U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. They eliminated Turkey in the QFinals 60-58 thanks to winning jump shot by Emma Meesseman (192-C-93) with 12 seconds to. Belgium will take on Spain at the next stage. Turkey will continue in Classification Games from 5th to 8th place. Their first rival will be Holland. Emma Meesseman was a key player for the winners with 24 points and 14 rebounds. She reached valuation 32. Antonia Delaere (174-G-94) scored 15 points and was the last one with double-digits in Belgium. On the other side, Turkey got 20 points and 6 boards from Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93). Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) added 18 pts and 10 rebs. Quarters: 19-12, 13-15, 7-17, 21-14. Championship continues today.

Belgium: Emma Meesseman 24+14 boards, Antonia Delaere 15
Turkey: Ayse Cora 20+6 boards, Olcay Cakir 18+10 boards

Belgian U16 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Starting five
#s#
Julie Allemand
Allemand
An-Katrien Nauwelaers
Nauwelaers
Aline Verelst
Verelst
Hind Ben Abdelkader
Ben Abdelkader
Axelle Bernard
Bernard
#e#5
4 Margo De Korte 168-G-95 Ieper Belgium
5 Julie Allemand 173-PG-96
6 Anneleen Da Baets 157-PG-95
7 An-Katrien Nauwelaers 178-F-95 Sint Kateline Belgium
8 Celine Lemmens 180-F-95 Ieper Belgium
9 Aline Verelst 171-G-96 Sint Kateline Belgium
10 Hind Ben Abdelkader 170-G/F-95 Waregem Belgium
11 Axelle Bernard 183-C-95 Point Chaud Belgium
12 Laeticia Mpoyi 179-C-96
13 Kyara Linskens 189-C-96
14 Isabelle Medjo 181-C-95
15 Marlon Delrue 178-F-96

Arvid Diels Head Coach Sint Kateline Belgium
Pierre Cornia Assistant


*****************************************************
  BULGARIA - Women  


Dunav 8806 bring Diana Voynova and Stefan Stefanov - by Eurobasket News
Dunav 8806 bring Diana Voynova (190-F) and Stefan Stefanov for 2011/2012 season.
Diana Voynova is a Bulgarian Player who in 2005-2006 played for Paws London Capitals (U.Kingdom-EBL). In 2007-2008 she moved to Jefferson CC (JUCO) and stayed there for two seasons. In 2009-2010 Diana moved to Duquesne (NCAA) and in 32 games averaged 1.9ppg, 2.7rpg. In 2010-2011 for Duquesne (NCAA) after 30 games her stats read 1.5ppg, 2.3rpg. For her Awards/Achievements it is a must to mention NJCAA Finalist -09.
Stefan Stefanov meanwhile worked with Dunav before. In 2005/2006 the Bulgarian specialist was a Coach Assistant of the team. The three seasons after he worked as a Head Coach of Dunav Rouse (A1) women team. He reached Bulgarian League Semifinals -07, Bulgarian Cup Semifinals -07, became Bulgarian Cup Finalist -08, 09. In 2008 Stefan Stefanov became Bulgarian League Champion and Bulgarian League Regular Season Champion. Recently he was also the Head Coach of the Bulgarian Women U18 National Team -10.



Beroe 07 lands center Lyubov Alyoshkina - by Eurobasket News
Lyubov Alyoshkina (202-C-81) will continue her career in Bulgaria. The Ukrainian National Team center signed a one-year deal with Beroe 07. They will compete in Bulgarian top division. Alyoshkina started last season with Belarusian Sozh Gomel and later moved to Orlan Simferopol. For 7 games in UPBL Alyoshkina had 14.9 ppg, 9.9 rpg and 3.3 bpg. Season 2009/10 Lyubov Alyoshkina spent in Turkey. She was a member of Samsun registering 7.2 ppg and 7.9 rpg for them in 22 Turkish league games. Alyoshkina also added 5.5 ppg and 9.3 rpg for 6 games in EuroCup. In the past, she played for MBK Ruzomberok, Arvi Marijampole, Dynamo Kursk and Kozachka-Zalk Zaporozhye. Lyubov Alyoshkina is active member of the Ukrainian National Team since 2003.

Beroe 07 announced Catherine Cain - by Eurobasket News
Beroe 07 announced Catherine Cain (180-F, college: USC Aiken) for the next season. The team that recently added Ukrainian Lyubov Alyoshkina for the roster, signed an American player as well.
In 2006-2007 Catherine Cain started for Ohio (NCAA) and in 9 games scored 8 points. In her last year there she improved to 1.7ppg, 1.4rpg. In 2009-2010 moved to S.Carol.-Aiken (NCAA2) and showed 12.4ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 43.0%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 80.0%. In March 2010 signed at Columbus Hidden Gems (WBCBL, starting five) and had 9.2ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, 55%FG, 38%3pt, 84%FT.
She was named MAC Tournament Finalist -08, All Conference 1st Team -10, All American Honorable Mention -10, WBCBL North East Division Champion -10, WBCBL North East Regional Runner-Up -10, WBCBL National Tournament Elite 8 -10 and WBCBL #1 National Ranking -10.
Last season Beroe lost the Finals to Dunav. It was third crucial game of the Playoff Quarterfinals and allowed Dunav to enter the semis.


*****************************************************
  CROATIA - Women  


Croatian U16 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Starting five
#s#
Inja Butina
Butina
Ivana Dujic
Dujic
Ivana Matic
Matic
Antonija Chiabov
Chiabov
Dana Saric
Saric
#e#5
4 Ana Tomicic 188-C-95
5 Inja Butina 170-PG-95
6 Ivana Dujic 170-PG-95
7 Lana Racki 167-PG-96
8 Ivana Matic 181-F-95
9 Antonija Chiabov 190-C-95 Jolly Croatia
10 Dana Saric 174-F-95
11 Antonela Bodrozic 180-F-95
12 Dragica Drmic 182-F-95
13 Klaudia Perisa 177-G-96
14 Anamaria Cutura 182-F-95
15 Patricia Bura 185-C-96

Linda Antic-Mrdalj Head Coach Montmontaza Croatia
Dean Nemec Assistant Tresnjevka Croatia


*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Czech Republic U16 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Starting five
#s#
Tereza Lancova
Lancova
Sarah Berankova
Berankova
Kamila Hoskova
Hoskova
Eliska Mircova
Mircova
Mariana Opocenska
Opocenska
#e#5
4 Tereza Lancova 172-G-95
5 Sarah Berankova 174-PG-96
6 Aneta Mainclova 191-C-96
7 Kamila Hoskova 174-F-95
8 Michaela Urbanova 178-G-95
9 Klara Krivankova 183-F-96
11 Michaela Kanukova 186-C-96
12 Michaela Praskova 174-G-96
13 Anna Hruskova 179-F-95
14 Eliska Mircova 176-PG-96
15 Mariana Opocenska 183-F-95

Richard Fousek Head Coach
Richard Klein Assistant Valosun Brno Czech Republic


U18 Czech Republic beats U18 Romania in OT, 75-71 - by Eurobasket News
U18 CZECH REPUBLIC - U18 ROMANIA 75-71 OT

Czech Republic grabbed 75-71 OT win against the host of U18 EuroBasket. It was a first game of the Classification Round from 9th to 12th place. In order to win position No.9 Czech Republic will have to beat Italy tomorrow. On the other side, Romania will play against Slovenia. The winner of that game will end as No.11. Michaela Vojtkova (177-F-93) stepped up for Czech Republic with 17 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Their second scorer was Monika Satoranska (183-F/C-93) with 15 points and she grabbed 9 rebounds beside that. Radka Brhelova (167-PG-93) helped with 14 pts in this meeting. Sonia Ursu (175-G/F-93) shined on the other side with 25 points and 14 rebounds. Alina Craciun (194-C-93) (8 rebs) and Ana Grigore (175-G-94) (6 rebs) netted 15 and 13 points respectively. Quarters: 21-15, 17-19, 16-14, 8-14, 13-9 OT.

Czech Republic: Michaela Vojtkova 17+10 boards+5 as, Monika Satoranska 15+9 boards, Radka Brhelova 14
Romania: Sonia Ursu 25+14 boards, Alina Craciun 15+8 boards, Ana Grigore 13

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16 - Women  


W-Standings - Div.A
Standings
Group A
1. Slovakia1-0
2. Sweden1-0
3. Belgium0-1
4. Poland0-1
Group B
1. Greece1-0
2. Russia1-0
3. Croatia0-1
4. Czech Rep.0-1
Group C
1. Spain1-0
2. Hungary1-0
3. Italy0-1
4. Finland0-1
Group D
1. Holland1-0
2. Turkey1-0
3. Serbia0-1
4. France0-1


Standings - Div.B - by Eurobasket News
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Portugal1-0
2. Ukraine1-0
3. Latvia0-1
4. Luxembourg.0-1
Group B
1. U.Kingdom1-0
2. Slovenia0-0
3. Belarus0-0
4. Estonia0-1
Group C
1. Bulgaria1-0
2. Lithuania1-0
3. Romania0-1
4. Israel0-1
Group D
1. Germany1-0
2. Switzerlan.1-0
3. Ireland0-1
4. Denmark0-1


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18 - Women  


Div.A Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Amanda ZAHUI
  (191-C-93)
  Avg: 16.4
 1. Zahui, SWE16.4 
 2. Kovacevic, SRB15.7 
 3. Meesseman, BEL15.1 
 4. Cakir, TUR14.1 
 5. Vanloo, BEL13.6 
 6. Kavurmaciogl., TUR13.3 
 7. Slamova, SVK13.3 
 8. Vyoralova, CZE13.1 
 9. Naumenko, UKR13.1 
 10. Chek, UKR13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Emma MEESSEMAN
  (192-C-93)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Meesseman, BEL10.9 
 2. Ursu, ROM9.7 
 3. Preskienyte, LTU9.7 
 4. Zahui, SWE9.3 
 5. Kavurmaciogl., TUR9.0 
 6. Naumenko, UKR8.7 
 7. Oroszova, SVK8.7 
 8. Tikhonenko, RUS8.3 
 9. Davydova, RUS8.0 
 10. Ndour, ESP8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Aleksandra STANACEV
  (167-PG-94)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Stanacev, SRB4.9 
 2. Vanloo, BEL4.0 
 3. Nystrom, SWE3.4 
 4. Slamova, SVK3.3 
 5. Juodeikyte, LTU3.3 
 6. Bernies, FRA2.7 
 7. Cakir, TUR2.6 
 8. Fontaine, SWE2.6 
 9. Vilaro, ESP2.6 
 10. Krayevska, UKR2.4 
Steals Per Game
 Emma MEESSEMAN
  (192-C-93)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Meesseman, BEL3.6 
 2. Ursu, ROM3.3 
 3. Krayevska, UKR3.3 
 4. Vyoralova, CZE3.0 
 5. Diaz, ESP3.0 
 6. Balintova, SVK2.9 
 7. Gabrovsek, SLO2.9 
 8. Abramovic, SLO2.9 
 9. Zanoguera, ESP2.4 
 10. Stanacev, SRB2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Emma MEESSEMAN
  (192-C-93)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Meesseman, BEL2.6 
 2. Ndour, ESP2.4 
 3. Salacova, CZE2.3 
 4. Tikhonenko, RUS2.0 
 5. Preskienyte, LTU2.0 
 6. Zahui, SWE1.6 
 7. Ruban, UKR1.4 
 8. Cornelie, FRA1.1 
 9. Chek, UKR1.1 
 10. Van Der Keij., NED1.1 


Div.B Stats Leaders - by Greg
Points Per Game
 Lena HETTO
  (184-F-93)
  Avg: 22.8
 1. Hetto, LUX22.8 
 2. Spanou, GRE18.7 
 3. Iiskola, FIN17.7 
 4. Tikvic, CRO17.4 
 5. Austgulen, NOR17.3 
 6. Holopainen, FIN17.0 
 7. Jesus, POR15.1 
 8. Szamosi, HUN15.0 
 9. Juvonen, FIN15.0 
 10. Szabo, HUN14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Julie MCCARTHY
  (186-C-93)
  Avg: 11.7
 1. McCarthy, NOR11.7 
 2. Gaskin, ENG11.5 
 3. Tikvic, CRO10.8 
 4. Spanou, GRE10.7 
 5. Lagzdina, LAT10.5 
 6. Papova, BLR8.8 
 7. Hetto, LUX8.0 
 8. Tyutyundzhie., BUL7.7 
 9. Holopainen, FIN7.4 
 10. Jespersen, DEN7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Anette JUVONEN
  (170-G-93)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Juvonen, FIN3.5 
 2. Szabo, HUN2.8 
 3. Dayan, ISR2.8 
 4. Zderadicka, AUT2.8 
 5. Levi, ISR2.7 
 6. Almeida, POR2.7 
 7. Czirjak, HUN2.3 
 8. Kedem, ISR2.3 
 9. Sikiric, CRO2.2 
 10. Szittya, GER2.2 
Steals Per Game
 Fanni SZABO
  (181-G-94)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Szabo, HUN3.5 
 2. Chatzigiakou., GRE3.2 
 3. Almeida, POR3.0 
 4. Tikvic, CRO2.8 
 5. Reine, LAT2.7 
 6. Lipinskaya, BLR2.5 
 7. Bedretdin, FIN2.3 
 8. Cigic, CRO2.3 
 9. Jesus, POR2.3 
 10. Weisbort, ISR2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Christina GASKIN
  (188-F/C-93)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Gaskin, ENG2.5 
 2. Chatzigiakou., GRE2.2 
 3. Tikvic, CRO2.2 
 4. Kalenta, BLR1.5 
 5. Breivik, NOR1.5 
 6. Tyutyundzhie., BUL1.3 
 7. Sagerer, AUT1.0 
 8. Dimitrova, BUL1.0 
 9. Fouraki, GRE1.0 
 10. Judit, HUN1.0 


Division A: Spain, Belgium, France and Sweden advance to Semifinals - by Eurobasket News
Quarterfinals

Sweden - Serbia 66-65
Sweden grabbed 66-65 thriller win against Serbia to reach the Semifinals of U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. It was a very exciting meeting, but Sweden was more focused in the finish and celebrated thanks to free throws by Abigail Asoro (178-F-93). Serbia had a chance after that, but Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) scored just one FT. Serbia grabbed an offensive rebound, but they missed for 3-pts at the buzzer. Sweden will meet France in the Semifinals. Serbia will fight for the fifth place at this event and their first rival will be Poland. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) led the winners with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Ellen Nystrom (180-G-93) and Abigail Asoro scored 11 and 10 points respectively. Natasa Kovacevic responded with 21 points and 8 boards on the other side. Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) had 13 pts and 9 rebs, while Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) added 10 points and 6 boards. Quarters: 16-28, 11-10, 20-10, 19-17. Championship continues today.

Belgium - Turkey 60-58
Belgium is in the Semifinals of U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. They eliminated Turkey in the QFinals 60-58 thanks to winning jump shot by Emma Meesseman (192-C-93) with 12 seconds to. Belgium will take on Spain at the next stage. Turkey will continue in Classification Games from 5th to 8th place. Their first rival will be Holland. Emma Meesseman was a key player for the winners with 24 points and 14 rebounds. She reached valuation 32. Antonia Delaere (174-G-94) scored 15 points and was the last one with double-digits in Belgium. On the other side, Turkey got 20 points and 6 boards from Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93). Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) added 18 pts and 10 rebs. Quarters: 19-12, 13-15, 7-17, 21-14. Championship continues today.

Spain - Holland 88-50
Spain extended their winning streak to seven. They blasted Holland 88-50 in the Quarterfinals of U18 EuroBasket and will meet Belgium in the Semis. On the other side, Holland will continue in Classification Games from 5th to 8th place. Their first rival will be Turkey. Astou Ndour (196-C-94) and Sara Rodriguez (185-C-93) led the scorers in victory with 13 points each. Elena De Alfredo (170-F-94) followed them with one less. In the loosing squad, Loyce Bettonvil (185-F-93) was better than the others with 12 points and 5 boards. Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) stopped to 11 pts in this meeting. Spain took control on Holland from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 22-11, 22-12, 26-9, 18-18. Championship continues today.

France - Poland 81-54
France advanced to the Semifinals of U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. They destroyed Poland 81-54 in the QFinals and will meet Sweden at the next stage. Poland is eliminated and will continue in Classification Games from 5th to 8th place. They will play against Serbia in the first meeting. Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) stepped up for the winners with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Jodie Cornelie (193-F-93) also scored 14 points, while Margaux Galliou (184-F-93) added three less. In Poland, Dominika Owczarzak (166-G-94) led the scorers with 14 points. Monika Skrzecz (162-PG-94) and Magdalena Wojdalska (187-G-94) had 11 and 10 pts respectively. France was dominating from the beginning having no troubles to register comfortable win. Quarters: 29-16, 20-13, 20-13, 12-12. Championship continues today.

Places 9-12
Slovenia - Italy 57-62
ItalItaly made a first step forward to ninth place in Oradea. They outplayed Slovenia 62-57 yesterday thanks to nice second and third quarter. In they want to end as No.9 Italy will have to beat Czech Republic tomorrow. On the other side, Slovenia will meet Romania. The winner of that game will finish as No.11. Caterina Dotto (170-PG-93) and Alessandra Formica (186-G-93) led Italy with 10 points and 6 rebounds each. Dotto handed out 6 assists beside that. In Slovenia, Rebeka Abramovic (170-PG-93) shined with 17 points and 7 boards. Ziva Macura (187-F/C-95) had double-double of 11 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 18-18, 10-20, 12-17, 17-7. Both teams will take a rest today.

Czech Republic - Romania 75-71 OT
Czech Republic grabbed 75-71 OT win against the host of U18 EuroBasket. It was a first game of the Classification Round from 9th to 12th place. In order to win position No.9 Czech Republic will have to beat Italy tomorrow. On the other side, Romania will play against Slovenia. The winner of that game will end as No.11. Michaela Vojtkova (177-F-93) stepped up for Czech Republic with 17 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Their second scorer was Monika Satoranska (183-F/C-93) with 15 points and she grabbed 9 rebounds beside that. Radka Brhelova (167-PG-93) helped with 14 pts in this meeting. Sonia Ursu (175-G/F-93) shined on the other side with 25 points and 14 rebounds. Alina Craciun (194-C-93) (8 rebs) and Ana Grigore (175-G-94) (6 rebs) netted 15 and 13 points respectively. Quarters: 21-15, 17-19, 16-14, 8-14, 13-9 OT.

Places 13-16
Ukraine - Lithuania 63-68
Lithuania outplayed Ukraine 68-63 registering the firs victory in Group G in Oradea. Both teams still have a chance to survive in U18 EuroBasket Division A, but they are not good situation at this moment. Lithuania and Ukraine have 1-3 record, while Russia and Slovakia are on 3-1 in this pool. Ieva Kazlauskaite (178-F-94) shined for the winners with 17 points, while Ieva Preskienyte (193-C-93) also was great adding 16 points and 8 boards. Monika Aleksaite (178-F-93) helped with 14 pts in this meeting. On the other side, Ukraine got 19 points and 7 rebounds from Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93). Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93) (8 rebs) and Miriam Uro-Nile (190-C-94) added 16 and 15 points respectively. Quarters: 17-15, 7-24, 19-16, 20-13. In the next game, Lithuania will meet Slovakia. Ukraine will take on Russia.

Slovakia - Russia 57-79
Russia handed first loss to Slovakia in Group G. Russia celebrated 79-57 win so both teams have 3-1 record now. They have a nice chance to survive in U18 EuroBasket Divission A. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: RIZO) exploded with 24 points and 13 rebounds in this victory. Mariya Davydova (189-F/C-93) had 17 points and 9 boards, while Galina Kiseleva (182-F-93) added 13 pts, 12 boards and 5 assists. In the loosing squad, Barbora Balintova (173-PG-94) was better than the others with 17 pts. Angelika Slamova (173-G-94) and Sabina Oroszova (187-F-93) netted 15 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 24-19, 18-20, 7-20, 8-20. Russia will meet Ukraine today. Slovakia will play against Lithuania.

W-Standings - Group A
Standings
Group E
1. Spain5-0
2. Sweden4-1
3. Turkey3-2
4. Poland2-3
5. Slovenia1-4
6. Romania0-5
Group F
1. France5-0
2. Belgium4-1
3. Serbia3-2
4. Holland2-3
5. Czech Rep.1-4
6. Italy0-5
Group Places 13-16
1. Russia3-1
2. Slovakia3-1
3. Ukraine1-3
4. Lithuania1-3


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  FRANCE - Women  


U18 France heads to Semifinals in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 FRANCE - U18 POLAND 81-54

France advanced to the Semifinals of U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. They destroyed Poland 81-54 in the QFinals and will meet Sweden at the next stage. Poland is eliminated and will continue in Classification Games from 5th to 8th place. They will play against Serbia in the first meeting. Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) stepped up for the winners with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Jodie Cornelie (193-F-93) also scored 14 points, while Margaux Galliou (184-F-93) added three less. In Poland, Dominika Owczarzak (166-G-94) led the scorers with 14 points. Monika Skrzecz (162-PG-94) and Magdalena Wojdalska (187-G-94) had 11 and 10 pts respectively. France was dominating from the beginning having no troubles to register comfortable win. Quarters: 29-16, 20-13, 20-13, 12-12. Championship continues today.

France: Christelle Diallo 14+9 boards, Jodie Cornelie 14, Margaux Galliou 11
Poland: Dominika Owczarzak 14, Monika Skrzecz 11, Magdalena Wojdalska 10

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  GREECE - Women  


Greek U16 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Starting five
#s#
Anna Stamolamprou
Stamolamprou
Eleni Kyratzi
Kyratzi
Pinelopi Pavlopoulou
Pavlopoulou
Victoria Gounari
Gounari
Dimitra Tsavou
Tsavou
#e#5
4 Anna Stamolamprou 165-PG-95
5 Kyriaki Emmanouilidou 162-PG-95
6 Vasiliki Fouraki 183-F-95
7 Eleni Kyratzi 170-PG-95
8 Pinelopi Pavlopoulou 170-PG-96
9 Victoria Gounari 172-PG-95
10 Maria Logdanidou 184-F-95
11 Anastasia Koniali 180-F-95
12 Eleftheria Kalomitsini 95
13 Rafaella Angelidou 184-C-95
14 Aimilia Kollia 186-C-95
15 Dimitra Tsavou 182-F-96

Yorgos Velisarakos Head Coach Halkidas Greece
Kyriakos Arapis Assistant


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  HOLLAND - Women  


Dutch U16 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Starting five
#s#
Klaziena Guijt
Guijt
Lisanne de Jonge
de Jonge
Isabella Slim
Slim
Merlin Lammerink
Lammerink
Emese Hof
Hof
#e#5
4 Fleur Kuijt 174-G-96
5 Laura Cornelius 174-PG-96 Celeritas-Donar Holland
6 Janiek Van Veen 172-PG-95
7 Klaziena Guijt 173-G-95
8 Kinou Kanbier 175-F-95
9 Anke Rikhof 180-F-96
10 Lisanne de Jonge 181-F-95 Batouwe Holland
11 Isabella Slim 181-F-95 CTO Holland
12 Britt Zappeij 184-C-95 Batouwe Holland
13 Merlin Lammerink 186-C-95 Eurosped Holland
14 Emese Hof 188-C-96
15 Lanette Kempers 185-F-95

Rene van der Wielen Head Coach ProBuild Lions Holland
Marie-Jose Allers Assistant


U18 Spain blasts U18 Holland 88-50 in the Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
U18 SPAIN - U18 HOLLAND 88-50

Spain extended their winning streak to seven. They blasted Holland 88-50 in the Quarterfinals of U18 EuroBasket and will meet Belgium in the Semis. On the other side, Holland will continue in Classification Games from 5th to 8th place. Their first rival will be Turkey. Astou Ndour (196-C-94) and Sara Rodriguez (185-C-93) led the scorers in victory with 13 points each. Elena De Alfredo (170-F-94) followed them with one less. In the loosing squad, Loyce Bettonvil (185-F-93) was better than the others with 12 points and 5 boards. Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) stopped to 11 pts in this meeting. Spain took control on Holland from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 22-11, 22-12, 26-9, 18-18. Championship continues today.

Spain: Astou Ndour 13, Sara Rodriguez 13, Elena De Alfredo 12
Holland: Loyce Bettonvil 12+5 boards, Maxime Essenstam 11

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  HUNGARY - Women  


Hungarian U16 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Starting five
#s#
Dora Nagy
Nagy
Fanni Bodnar
Bodnar
Emoke Sikora
Sikora
Barbara Varga
Varga
Rebeka Mellar
Mellar
#e#5
4 Vivien Borondy 170-PG-95 UNIQA Eurol. Hungary
5 Agota Gocsman 182-F-95 Vasas-Csata Hungary
6 Dora Szabo 171-G-95
8 Dora Nagy 170-PG-95 SEAT-SZESE Hungary
9 Fanni Bodnar 178-F-95
11 Agnes Dobos 190-C-96
12 Brigitta Szabo 182-F-95
13 Dorina Kalocsai 171-G-95 Bajai NKK Hungary
14 Emoke Sikora 180-C-95
15 Barbara Varga 181-F-95
20 Rebeka Mellar 172-G-96
21 Gina Mojzes 182-C-95

Akos Peresztegi Nagy Head Coach Bajai NKK Hungary
Andras Antal Assistant


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  ITALY - Women  


U18 Italy hands 62-57 loss to U18 Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
U18 SLOVENIA - U18 ITALY 57-62

Italy made a first step forward to ninth place in Oradea. They outplayed Slovenia 62-57 yesterday thanks to nice second and third quarter. In they want to end as No.9 Italy will have to beat Czech Republic tomorrow. On the other side, Slovenia will meet Romania. The winner of that game will finish as No.11. Caterina Dotto (170-PG-93) and Alessandra Formica (186-G-93) led Italy with 10 points and 6 rebounds each. Dotto handed out 6 assists beside that. In Slovenia, Rebeka Abramovic (170-PG-93) shined with 17 points and 7 boards. Ziva Macura (187-F/C-95) had double-double of 11 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 18-18, 10-20, 12-17, 17-7. Both teams will take a rest today.

Slovenia: Rebeka Abramovic 17+7 boards, Ziva Macura 11+10 boards
Italy: Caterina Dotto 10+6 boards+6 as, Alessandra Formica 10+6 boards

Italian U16 National Team 2011 - by Karol
Starting five
#s#
Antonia Peresson
Peresson
Anna Djedjemel
Djedjemel
Sofia Marangoni
Marangoni
Cecilia Zandalasini
Zandalasini
Elisa Penna
Penna
#e#5
4 Antonia Peresson 183-PG-95
5 Anna Djedjemel 169-PG-95
6 Sara Crudo 192-F-95 T. La Spezia Italy
7 Martina Kacerik 179-F-96
8 Sofia Marangoni 174-PG-95
9 Cecilia Zandalasini 182-F-96
10 Cecilia Zagni 179-F-95
11 Marzia Tagliamento 179-F-96
12 Elisa Penna 185-F-95 College Italia Italy
13 Giulia Vanin 188-F-95 Umana Reyer Italy
14 Annalisa Vitari 183-F-96
15 Elisa Ercoli 190-C-95

Renato Nani Head Coach College Italia Italy
Pierangelo Rossi Assistant


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  LITHUANIA - Women  


U18 Lithuania grabs first win in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U18 UKRAINE - U18 LITHUANIA 63-68

Lithuania outplayed Ukraine 68-63 registering the firs victory in Group G in Oradea. Both teams still have a chance to survive in U18 EuroBasket Division A, but they are not good situation at this moment. Lithuania and Ukraine have 1-3 record, while Russia and Slovakia are on 3-1 in this pool. Ieva Kazlauskaite (178-F-94) shined for the winners with 17 points, while Ieva Preskienyte (193-C-93) also was great adding 16 points and 8 boards. Monika Aleksaite (178-F-93) helped with 14 pts in this meeting. On the other side, Ukraine got 19 points and 7 rebounds from Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93). Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93) (8 rebs) and Miriam Uro-Nile (190-C-94) added 16 and 15 points respectively. Quarters: 17-15, 7-24, 19-16, 20-13. In the next game, Lithuania will meet Slovakia. Ukraine will take on Russia.

Ukraine: Lyudmyla Naumenko 19+7 boards, Oleksandra Chek 16+8 boards, Miriam Uro-Nile 15
Lithuania: Ieva Kazlauskaite 17, Ieva Preskienyte 16+8 boards, Monika Aleksaite 14

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  POLAND - Women  


Inna Kochubei signs with Odra Brzeg - by Eurobasket News
Inna Kochubei (174-G-82) will continue her career in Poland. The Ukrainian National Team member penned a deal with Odra Brzeg. Kochubei arrives to her new club from Tim-Scuf Kyiv, where she finished 2010/11 season. She appeared 8 times in UPBL averaging 14.8 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists. Kochubei helped them win UPBL title. She started last season Gorizont Minsk. Actually, Kochubei joined them in December and played just few games. In 2009/10 season she was a member of Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk. In the past, Inna Kochubei also played for AEL Limassol and couple of years for Team-Skuf Kyiv. She is active member of the Ukrainian NT since 2004.

U18 France heads to Semifinals in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 FRANCE - U18 POLAND 81-54

France advanced to the Semifinals of U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. They destroyed Poland 81-54 in the QFinals and will meet Sweden at the next stage. Poland is eliminated and will continue in Classification Games from 5th to 8th place. They will play against Serbia in the first meeting. Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) stepped up for the winners with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Jodie Cornelie (193-F-93) also scored 14 points, while Margaux Galliou (184-F-93) added three less. In Poland, Dominika Owczarzak (166-G-94) led the scorers with 14 points. Monika Skrzecz (162-PG-94) and Magdalena Wojdalska (187-G-94) had 11 and 10 pts respectively. France was dominating from the beginning having no troubles to register comfortable win. Quarters: 29-16, 20-13, 20-13, 12-12. Championship continues today.

France: Christelle Diallo 14+9 boards, Jodie Cornelie 14, Margaux Galliou 11
Poland: Dominika Owczarzak 14, Monika Skrzecz 11, Magdalena Wojdalska 10

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  ROMANIA - Women  


U18 Czech Republic beats U18 Romania in OT, 75-71 - by Eurobasket News
U18 CZECH REPUBLIC - U18 ROMANIA 75-71 OT

Czech Republic grabbed 75-71 OT win against the host of U18 EuroBasket. It was a first game of the Classification Round from 9th to 12th place. In order to win position No.9 Czech Republic will have to beat Italy tomorrow. On the other side, Romania will play against Slovenia. The winner of that game will end as No.11. Michaela Vojtkova (177-F-93) stepped up for Czech Republic with 17 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Their second scorer was Monika Satoranska (183-F/C-93) with 15 points and she grabbed 9 rebounds beside that. Radka Brhelova (167-PG-93) helped with 14 pts in this meeting. Sonia Ursu (175-G/F-93) shined on the other side with 25 points and 14 rebounds. Alina Craciun (194-C-93) (8 rebs) and Ana Grigore (175-G-94) (6 rebs) netted 15 and 13 points respectively. Quarters: 21-15, 17-19, 16-14, 8-14, 13-9 OT.

Czech Republic: Michaela Vojtkova 17+10 boards+5 as, Monika Satoranska 15+9 boards, Radka Brhelova 14
Romania: Sonia Ursu 25+14 boards, Alina Craciun 15+8 boards, Ana Grigore 13

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  RUSSIA - Women  


U18 Russia jumps to 3-1 in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U18 SLOVAKIA - U18 RUSSIA 57-79

Russia handed first loss to Slovakia in Group G. Russia celebrated 79-57 win so both teams have 3-1 record now. They have a nice chance to survive in U18 EuroBasket Divission A. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: RIZO) exploded with 24 points and 13 rebounds in this victory. Mariya Davydova (189-F/C-93) had 17 points and 9 boards, while Galina Kiseleva (182-F-93) added 13 pts, 12 boards and 5 assists. In the loosing squad, Barbora Balintova (173-PG-94) was better than the others with 17 pts. Angelika Slamova (173-G-94) and Sabina Oroszova (187-F-93) netted 15 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 24-19, 18-20, 7-20, 8-20. Russia will meet Ukraine today. Slovakia will play against Lithuania.

Slovakia: Barbora Balintova 17, Angelika Slamova 15, Sabina Oroszova 12
Russia: Ksenia Tikhonenko 24+13 boards, Mariya Davydova 17+9 boards, Galina Kiseleva 13+12 boards+5 as

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  SERBIA - Women  


U18 Sweden eliminates U18 Serbia in thriller, 66-65 - by Eurobasket News
U18 SWEDEN - U18 SERBIA 66-65

Sweden grabbed 66-65 thriller win against Serbia to reach the Semifinals of U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. It was a very exciting meeting, but Sweden was more focused in the finish and celebrated thanks to free throws by Abigail Asoro (178-F-93). Serbia had a chance after that, but Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) scored just one FT. Serbia grabbed an offensive rebound, but they missed for 3-pts at the buzzer. Sweden will meet France in the Semifinals. Serbia will fight for the fifth place at this event and their first rival will be Poland. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) led the winners with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Ellen Nystrom (180-G-93) and Abigail Asoro scored 11 and 10 points respectively. Natasa Kovacevic responded with 21 points and 8 boards on the other side. Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) had 13 pts and 9 rebs, while Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) added 10 points and 6 boards. Quarters: 16-28, 11-10, 20-10, 19-17. Championship continues today.

Sweden: Amanda Zahui 24+12 boards, Ellen Nystrom 11, Abigail Asoro 10
Serbia: Natasa Kovacevic 21+8 boards, Aleksandra Stanacev 13+9 boards, Ivana Brajkovic 10+6 boards

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


U18 Russia jumps to 3-1 in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U18 SLOVAKIA - U18 RUSSIA 57-79

Russia handed first loss to Slovakia in Group G. Russia celebrated 79-57 win so both teams have 3-1 record now. They have a nice chance to survive in U18 EuroBasket Divission A. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: RIZO) exploded with 24 points and 13 rebounds in this victory. Mariya Davydova (189-F/C-93) had 17 points and 9 boards, while Galina Kiseleva (182-F-93) added 13 pts, 12 boards and 5 assists. In the loosing squad, Barbora Balintova (173-PG-94) was better than the others with 17 pts. Angelika Slamova (173-G-94) and Sabina Oroszova (187-F-93) netted 15 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 24-19, 18-20, 7-20, 8-20. Russia will meet Ukraine today. Slovakia will play against Lithuania.

Slovakia: Barbora Balintova 17, Angelika Slamova 15, Sabina Oroszova 12
Russia: Ksenia Tikhonenko 24+13 boards, Mariya Davydova 17+9 boards, Galina Kiseleva 13+12 boards+5 as

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  SLOVENIA - Women  


U18 Italy hands 62-57 loss to U18 Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
U18 SLOVENIA - U18 ITALY 57-62

Italy made a first step forward to ninth place in Oradea. They outplayed Slovenia 62-57 yesterday thanks to nice second and third quarter. In they want to end as No.9 Italy will have to beat Czech Republic tomorrow. On the other side, Slovenia will meet Romania. The winner of that game will finish as No.11. Caterina Dotto (170-PG-93) and Alessandra Formica (186-G-93) led Italy with 10 points and 6 rebounds each. Dotto handed out 6 assists beside that. In Slovenia, Rebeka Abramovic (170-PG-93) shined with 17 points and 7 boards. Ziva Macura (187-F/C-95) had double-double of 11 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 18-18, 10-20, 12-17, 17-7. Both teams will take a rest today.

Slovenia: Rebeka Abramovic 17+7 boards, Ziva Macura 11+10 boards
Italy: Caterina Dotto 10+6 boards+6 as, Alessandra Formica 10+6 boards

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  SPAIN - Women  


U18 Spain blasts U18 Holland 88-50 in the Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
U18 SPAIN - U18 HOLLAND 88-50

Spain extended their winning streak to seven. They blasted Holland 88-50 in the Quarterfinals of U18 EuroBasket and will meet Belgium in the Semis. On the other side, Holland will continue in Classification Games from 5th to 8th place. Their first rival will be Turkey. Astou Ndour (196-C-94) and Sara Rodriguez (185-C-93) led the scorers in victory with 13 points each. Elena De Alfredo (170-F-94) followed them with one less. In the loosing squad, Loyce Bettonvil (185-F-93) was better than the others with 12 points and 5 boards. Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) stopped to 11 pts in this meeting. Spain took control on Holland from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 22-11, 22-12, 26-9, 18-18. Championship continues today.

Spain: Astou Ndour 13, Sara Rodriguez 13, Elena De Alfredo 12
Holland: Loyce Bettonvil 12+5 boards, Maxime Essenstam 11

Mariana signs Brittany Spears - by Eurobasket News
Brittany Spears (185-F-88, college: Colorado) is set to start her professional career. The American forward signed a one-year deal with Soller Joventud Mariana. She graduated at the University of Colorado few months ago. In 34 games as a senior Spears had 19.2 ppg, 8.1 rpg and 1.8 spg. She helped Colorado to reach NIT Elite Eight. Spears was named All-Big 12 1st Team -11. As a junior she averaged 17.7 points and 7.8 rebounds. Spears also had great digits as a sophomore: 18.3 ppg and 7.8 rpg. In her first season with Colorado, Spears helped them reach NIT Final Four. She had 13.9 ppg and 7.6 rpg that season.

Cajacanarias returns Patricia Berciano after one year - by Eurobasket News
Patricia Berciano (174-G-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) is back to Uni-Cajacanarias after one season. She spent it with the LFB team Cadi la Seu D'urgell. Berciano appeared 18 times in the league averaging 2.8 points and 1 rebounds. However, it seems that was not enough and they parted ways in February. Patricia Berciano played for Cajacanarias from 2007 until the last summer. In 2009/10 season she had 8.2 ppg, 2 rpg and 2.9 apg for 30 games in LF2. A year before that she shined with 12.5 ppg, 1.5 rpg and 1.9 apg for 28 games. Her numbers were lower in 2007/08. Patricia Berciano was a member of the Spanish U10 National Team two years ago. She helped them win the Silver at the European Championships U20 in Gdynia. Berciano had 2.9 ppg and 1 rpg for 8 games at this event.

Celta Vigo adds Maja Vucurovic for the next season - by Eurobasket News
Celta Vigo continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Serbian forward Maja Vucurovic (188-F-91). The 20-year-old prospect heads to Vigo from the Polish team TS Wisla Can-Pack Krakow, where she spent last two seasons. In the latest one she had 1.4 ppg and 1.1 rpg in 14 PLKK games. She had limited playing time in 2009/10 as well. Wisla was the PLKK champion this year. Vucurovic played for the Serbian team Radivoj Korac Beograd in 2008/09.
Maja Vucurovic is a member of the Serbian U20 National Team. She helped them reach Semifinals at the European Championships U20 in Novi Sad this summer. She had 7.6 ppg and 3.7 rpg for 9 games at this event. In 2009, Maja Vucurovic played for U18 Serbia. She registered 11 ppg and 6.9 rpg for 9 games at the European Championships U18 in Sodertalje. She also was a member of U16 Serbia in the past.

Gernika KESB lands rookie Tynikki Crook - by Eurobasket News
Gernika KESB continues with signings for the next season. The Spanish outfit penned a one-year deal with American forward Tynikki Crook (185-F-89). It will be first professional season for Crook. The 21-year-old player graduated few months ago at the Marshal University. She was one of their best players as a senior with 16.2 ppg, 9.2 rpg and 1.2 apg. In 2009/10 season Crook had slightly lower digits. At that time she had 13.4 ppg and 7.7 rpg. As a sophomore, Crook collected almost the same numbers. For her performance Tynikki Crook was named All-C-USA 3rd Team -09, 10. She also was awarded with C-USA All-Tournament Team -08, 09. Marshal University reached C-USA Tournament Semifinals twice.

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  SWEDEN - Women  


U18 Sweden eliminates U18 Serbia in thriller, 66-65 - by Eurobasket News
U18 SWEDEN - U18 SERBIA 66-65

Sweden grabbed 66-65 thriller win against Serbia to reach the Semifinals of U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. It was a very exciting meeting, but Sweden was more focused in the finish and celebrated thanks to free throws by Abigail Asoro (178-F-93). Serbia had a chance after that, but Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) scored just one FT. Serbia grabbed an offensive rebound, but they missed for 3-pts at the buzzer. Sweden will meet France in the Semifinals. Serbia will fight for the fifth place at this event and their first rival will be Poland. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) led the winners with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Ellen Nystrom (180-G-93) and Abigail Asoro scored 11 and 10 points respectively. Natasa Kovacevic responded with 21 points and 8 boards on the other side. Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) had 13 pts and 9 rebs, while Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) added 10 points and 6 boards. Quarters: 16-28, 11-10, 20-10, 19-17. Championship continues today.

Sweden: Amanda Zahui 24+12 boards, Ellen Nystrom 11, Abigail Asoro 10
Serbia: Natasa Kovacevic 21+8 boards, Aleksandra Stanacev 13+9 boards, Ivana Brajkovic 10+6 boards

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  TURKEY - Women  


Emma Meesseman lifts U18 Belgium to Semifinals in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 BELGIUM - U18 TURKEY 60-58

Belgium is in the Semifinals of U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. They eliminated Turkey in the QFinals 60-58 thanks to winning jump shot by Emma Meesseman (192-C-93) with 12 seconds to. Belgium will take on Spain at the next stage. Turkey will continue in Classification Games from 5th to 8th place. Their first rival will be Holland. Emma Meesseman was a key player for the winners with 24 points and 14 rebounds. She reached valuation 32. Antonia Delaere (174-G-94) scored 15 points and was the last one with double-digits in Belgium. On the other side, Turkey got 20 points and 6 boards from Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93). Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) added 18 pts and 10 rebs. Quarters: 19-12, 13-15, 7-17, 21-14. Championship continues today.

Belgium: Emma Meesseman 24+14 boards, Antonia Delaere 15
Turkey: Ayse Cora 20+6 boards, Olcay Cakir 18+10 boards

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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women  


All-CBC Championships Awards 2011 - WOMEN - by David Edole
Best Player: Natalie Day (182-G/F-90) (182-G/F-90) of U.S. Virgin Islands
Best Guard: Carmen Guzman (175-G-85) of Dominican Republic
Best Forward: Natalie Day (182-G/F-90) of U.S. Virgin Islands
Best Center: Marlen Cepeda (193-C-85) of Cuba

1st Team
G: Carmen Guzman (175-85) of Dominican Republic
G: Melissa Guerrero (180-83) of Trinidad and Tobago
F: Taimy Fernandez (183-82) of Cuba
G/F: Natalie Day (182-90) of U.S. Virgin Islands
C: Marlen Cepeda (193-85) of Cuba

2nd Team
G: Rhea Codio (165-8 of Trinidad and Tobago
G: Jowan Ortega (173-85) of Trinidad and Tobago
F/C: Sugeiry Monsac (186-81) of Dominican Republic
F/C: Vasha Adams (83) of Saint Vincent
C: Clenia Noblet (191-87) of Cuba



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  UKRAINE - Women  


Inna Kochubei signs with Odra Brzeg - by Eurobasket News
Inna Kochubei (174-G-82) will continue her career in Poland. The Ukrainian National Team member penned a deal with Odra Brzeg. Kochubei arrives to her new club from Tim-Scuf Kyiv, where she finished 2010/11 season. She appeared 8 times in UPBL averaging 14.8 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists. Kochubei helped them win UPBL title. She started last season Gorizont Minsk. Actually, Kochubei joined them in December and played just few games. In 2009/10 season she was a member of Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk. In the past, Inna Kochubei also played for AEL Limassol and couple of years for Team-Skuf Kyiv. She is active member of the Ukrainian NT since 2004.

U18 Lithuania grabs first win in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U18 UKRAINE - U18 LITHUANIA 63-68

Lithuania outplayed Ukraine 68-63 registering the firs victory in Group G in Oradea. Both teams still have a chance to survive in U18 EuroBasket Division A, but they are not good situation at this moment. Lithuania and Ukraine have 1-3 record, while Russia and Slovakia are on 3-1 in this pool. Ieva Kazlauskaite (178-F-94) shined for the winners with 17 points, while Ieva Preskienyte (193-C-93) also was great adding 16 points and 8 boards. Monika Aleksaite (178-F-93) helped with 14 pts in this meeting. On the other side, Ukraine got 19 points and 7 rebounds from Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93). Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93) (8 rebs) and Miriam Uro-Nile (190-C-94) added 16 and 15 points respectively. Quarters: 17-15, 7-24, 19-16, 20-13. In the next game, Lithuania will meet Slovakia. Ukraine will take on Russia.

Ukraine: Lyudmyla Naumenko 19+7 boards, Oleksandra Chek 16+8 boards, Miriam Uro-Nile 15
Lithuania: Ieva Kazlauskaite 17, Ieva Preskienyte 16+8 boards, Monika Aleksaite 14

Beroe 07 lands center Lyubov Alyoshkina - by Eurobasket News
Lyubov Alyoshkina (202-C-81) will continue her career in Bulgaria. The Ukrainian National Team center signed a one-year deal with Beroe 07. They will compete in Bulgarian top division. Alyoshkina started last season with Belarusian Sozh Gomel and later moved to Orlan Simferopol. For 7 games in UPBL Alyoshkina had 14.9 ppg, 9.9 rpg and 3.3 bpg. Season 2009/10 Lyubov Alyoshkina spent in Turkey. She was a member of Samsun registering 7.2 ppg and 7.9 rpg for them in 22 Turkish league games. Alyoshkina also added 5.5 ppg and 9.3 rpg for 6 games in EuroCup. In the past, she played for MBK Ruzomberok, Arvi Marijampole, Dynamo Kursk and Kozachka-Zalk Zaporozhye. Lyubov Alyoshkina is active member of the Ukrainian National Team since 2003.

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  WNBA - Women  


Storm hand Shock 16th consecutive loss - by Eurobasket News
Camille Little (6'2''-F/G-85, college: N.Carolina) scored a season-high 19 points, and the Seattle Storm led from the start in a 77-63 win over Tulsa on Thursday night, handing the Shock their 16th consecutive loss.

Tanisha Wright (5'11''-G-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Penn St.) added 11 points to help the Storm (13-10) snap a two-game skid and improve to 9-1 at home. Seattle has won 26 of its last 27 regular-season home games dating back to last season.

Six-foot-eight rookie center Liz Cambage (6'8''-C-91) had a career-high 24 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, reaching double figures in scoring for the 16th time in 21 games, to lead the Shock (1-21). Tiffany Jackson (6'3''-F-85, college: Texas) scored 14 points and Andrea Riley added 10.

Tulsa moved one away from the league record for consecutive losses. The Atlanta Dream lost their first 17 games in 2008 during their inaugural season. The Shock's only victory this season was June 18 at home against Washington.

Seattle scored the first seven points and had a double-digit lead at 14-2 just 3 minutes into the game. Tulsa pulled to 28-22 early in the second quarter, but the Storm followed with a 15-0 run to go ahead by 21. The lead didn't dip below double digits the rest of the way.

The Shock were without interim head coach Teresa Edwards, who was in Springfield, Mass., where she will be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame on Friday night.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Bonner leads Mercury in 109-95 win over Dream - by Eurobasket News
DeWanna Bonner (6'4''-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Auburn) had a career-high 25 points and 13 rebounds to help the Phoenix Mercury hold off the Atlanta Dream 109-95 on Thursday night.

'She's really coming into her own,' Phoenix coach Corey Gaines said. 'She's a great player, I always knew that even when I first saw her. She's getting better and better.'

Candice Dupree (6'2''-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) had 22 points and Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) scored 21 to help Phoenix (13-9) win its second straight after losing five of six. Dupree also had six rebounds and Taurasi added five assists.

'We have great scorers,' Bonner said. 'Anybody on our team can go off on any given night. To have those numbers that's great. The pressure isn't on one person.'

Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville), second in the WNBA in scoring behind Taurasi, had 25 points, five rebounds and three assists to lead Atlanta (10-12), which lost for just the third time in 10 games.

'I thought we really fought hard,' Atlanta coach Marynell Meadors said. 'Phoenix is playing well right now and they have a lot of offensive weapons.'

Phoenix scored six consecutive points to pull away midway through the final period after Atlanta got to 90-84 with 6:46 left. The Dream had trailed by 21 in the first half and 14 in the third quarter.

Erika DeSouza had 17 points and six rebounds for the Dream, which has split the first two games in a stretch of seven of eight road games over 18 days.

Penny Taylor had 19 points and six assists for the Mercury, which had 21 fastbreak points and outrebounded taller Atlanta 40-35.

Dupree scored 12 points, all in the first 6 minutes to help Phoenix grab a 30-20 lead after the first quarter.

Bonner scored 11 points in the first 5 1/2 minutes of the second quarter as Phoenix opened up a 50-29 lead. However, McCoughtry had a 3-pointer and a pair of free throws to key a 17-5 run late in the half as Atlanta pulled to 59-48 at the break.

Taylor scored nine of her points in the third quarter but DeSouza had nine as well for Atlanta to keep the Dream within 87-76 going into the final period.

Courtesy ofwww.miamiherald.com

Hammon scores 18 in Silver Stars' win over Sun - by Eurobasket News
San Antonio has played some of the best teams in the WNBA on the road in recent games. Win a win at Connecticut, coach Dan Hughes believes his Silver Stars have proved they belong among the elite.

Becky Hammon (5'6''-G-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) scored 18 points and Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) added 15 as San Antonio beat the Sun 72-59 Thursday night.

It was the Silver Stars' fourth road game in their last five. They lost at defending champion Seattle on Aug. 2, and then at Minnesota, which has the league's best mark, two days later. After beating league-worst Tulsa at home on Saturday, San Antonio lost at Eastern Conference-leading Indiana on Tuesday before beating the second-place Sun.

'We've been on the road so much and this last swing, we've played good teams,' Hughes said. 'Our goal is to be a winning road team and we're 7-5. We've got a shot.'

Danielle Robinson (5'9''-G-89, college: Oklahoma) and Jia Perkins (5'8''-G-82, agency: Merit Sports, college: Texas Tech) added 12 points apiece for the Silver Stars (13-9), who led comfortably for most of the game. San Antonio, which shot 50 percent (30 for 60) from the field, had lost four of its previous five.

'We came off a hard loss at Indiana the other day. We were just battling,' said Hammon, who shot 7 for 11. 'We have a lot of respect for Connecticut.'

Robinson's layup with 6 seconds left in the third gave the Silver Stars their biggest lead at 57-36.

Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) had 16 points and 10 rebounds, Tan White scored 11 points and Kara Lawson had 10 for Connecticut (14-8), which didn't get closer than 13 in the second half. The Sun shot 35 percent (22 for 63).

'You all saw why San Antonio is pretty good,' Connecticut coach Mike Thibault said. 'I wish we had made it interesting. San Antonio is unselfish. They move the basketball.'

After trailing in the early minutes, the Silver Stars used a 19-4 run to take a 21-10 lead with 2:48 to go in the opening quarter. Hammon, who had 15 points in the first half, capped the spurt with a 3-pointer and a three-point play.

'Getting out to a good start was so important for us,' Hughes said. 'I thought it set a tone. Defensively, it was one of those games. Connecticut had a tough shooting night. They had some looks. We've had them too playing this much basketball.'

Perkins' layup in the opening minute of the second quarter extended the Silver Stars' lead to 27-12.

Hammon's 3 with 3 seconds remaining stretched the advantage to 40-23 lead.

Connecticut missed its last 10 shots of the first half. The Sun shot 23 percent (7-31), setting season low marks for field goals made and field goal percentage in a half.

'We just missed shots,' Jones said. 'You can't really blame fatigue on that. It just happens sometimes. We started off offensively OK, but we weren't getting stops on defense. And when you're not getting things done on offense, you have to get stops on defense, and we just didn't do that tonight.'

Hammon hit another 3 - her final points of the game - to give San Antonio a 19-point lead with 8:17 remaining in the third quarter.

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com

Standings
WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Indiana F. 16-7 
 2. Connecticut S. 14-8 
 3. New York L. 13-10 
 4. Atlanta D. 10-12 
 5. Chicago S. 10-14 
 6. Washington M. 5-15 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 17-5 
 2. S.Antonio SS 13-9 
 3. Phoenix M. 13-9 
 4. Seattle S. 13-10 
 5. L.Angeles S. 8-13 
 6. Tulsa S. 1-21