EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/17/2011

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Men News

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  ABA   


Veteran Guard MaJic Dorsey Inks Deal with Halcones UV Xalapa - by Surujh Roopnarine
Majic Dorsey (6'1''-G-81, college: S.Indiana), formerly of the NBA D-League's Reno Big Horns, has signed with Mexican powerhouse Halcones UV Xalapa for the 2011-12 LNBP season. A 30-year old guard from Baltimore, Maryland, Dorsey is no stranger to Mexico and Latin America, having been the LNBPs leading scorer (35.4ppg) in 2006 while a member of Mayas de Yucatan. Xalapa are coming off a 2010-11 season which saw them fall in the semi-finals of the playoffs to eventual champions Toros Nuevo Laredo. Under new Head Coach Andy Stoglin , Xalapa will utilize the dynamic Dorsey at both the point and off-guard positions in a fast, up-tempo system which suits the veteran just fine. I have always wanted to play for this team, they have a very NBA-style organization, very professional I came to this city because I want to give them another championship Dorsey said about his signing in Xalapa. Dorsey made a name for himself coming up out of Brevard Community College, earning American Basketball Association (ABA) Rookie of the Year Honors in his first professional season after college, along with touring with the And 1 Streetball Tour. While the D-League had been the place where MaJic tuned his skills against NBA-caliber opponents on a nightly-basis, the showman, the star, always shined its brightest in Mexico. He has spent the last two seasons playing with Meteoros de Yucatan-Merida in addition to an exhibition tour in China.
Dorsey has played in 147 career D-League games over five seasons, with career averages of 9.1 points, 1.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting 43.2% from the field and 83.0% from the free-throw line.
A re-vamped Xalapa roster featuring Dorsey is sure to be one of the favorites to capture the LNPB crown this season, and for the man they call MaJic, the spotlight and big stage is his place to shine.


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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Crvena Zvezda Beograd (former FMP Zeleznik) keeps Mile Ilic - by Eurobasket News
Mile Ilic (215-C-84, agency: Beo Basket) signed a one-year deal with Crvena Zvezda Beograd. That it actually his former team FMP Zeleznik, which will continue with the new name and at the same time they got all of Crvena Zvezda players. Crvena Zvezda will be compensated for giving their name and all the players to FMP, actually to new club Crvena Zvezda Beograd. Mile Ilic appeared 42 times with FMP in Serbian league 2010/11 averaging 10.7 points, 5 rebounds and 1.2 blocks. Season 2010/11, Mile Ilic spent with Metalac Valjevo. He joined them in March for the Superleague averaging 10.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1 block in 16 games. Before Metalac, he spent one year with Cajasol Seville. Ilic also has experience from Bilbao and D-Legaue team Colorado 14ers. In 2006/07 season Ilic appeared five times in NBA with the New Jersey Nets, but he had very limited playing time. He played for FMP couple of years in the past. Mile Ilic participated at the Serbian NT camp, but he was one of the first cuts this summer.

Olimpija brings back Varda - by Zeljko Zule
Union Olimpija brought a familiar face back and announced a new player with the signing of Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79, agency: Alti Sport) who played zhe 2002-03 season with the club. He arrives from Asseco Prokom where he averaged 13.3 point and 4.5 rebounds in Euroleague last season, 9.8 points, 5.4 boards and 1.9 steals per game in Polish League and 7.7 points and 4.0 rebounds in VTB League per appearance.

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Indomitable Lions arrived in Antananarivo - by Kristian Santiago
Under the guidance of head coach Lazare Adingono , the Indomitable Lions arrived in Madagascar to compete for the African crown.
No Luc Mbah a Moute (200-G/F-86, college: UCLA), Brice Vounang (202-F/C-82, college: San Diego), Harding NaNa (203-F-81, college: Delaware) or Ruben Boumtje (212-C-78, college: Georgetown) for the ambitioned country, still the Central African nation should be counted in for the top three spots in this year's edition.

The roster:

Parfait Bitee (188-G-85)
Cyrille Makanda (195-G-80)
Brice Nengsu (190-G-83, college: Angelo St.)
Christian Bayang (193-G-87)
Franck Ndongo (198-F-88)
Chris Rodgers (196-G-84, college: Arizona)
Georges Manyaka (F/C)
Gaston Essengue (203-F-83, college: UNLV)
Alfred Aboya (206-F/C-85, college: UCLA)
Alexis Wangmene (200-F/C-89)
Benoit Owona (188-G/F-89)
Aldo Curti (180-G-87)



Moroccans en route to the African Championships - by Kristian Santiago
Head coach Hassane Hachad won't be able to use Younes Idrissi (204-F/C-84, college: Iona) in Antananarivo, but his son Mohammed Hachad will be on board to lead the Lions of the Atlas into the tournament.



The following players will be making the trip:

Zakaria El Masbahi (191-G-79) (AS Sale)
Abdelhakim Zouita (201-F-86) (AS Sale)
Abderrahim Najah (198-F/C-84) (AS Sale)
Reda Rhalimi (213-C-82, college: St.Mary's, CA) (AS Sale)
Soufiane Kourdou (211-C-85) (AS Sale)
Omar Lahnani (Plazza Casablanca Sport)
Mohamed Hachad (194-G-83, college: Northwestern) (Fos Ouest Provence Basket)
Soufiane Rafii (Widad Safrou AC de Casablanca)
Mustapha Khalfi (173-PG-80) (Plazza Casablanca Sport)
Hicham Amrallah (186-PG-78) (Raja de Casablanca)
Reda Ali Harras (Widad Safrou AC de Casablanca)
Mohammed Houari Bassim (Maghreb de Fes)



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  ALBANIA   


Belarus tame Albania in Tirana - by Eurobasket News
Albania - Belarus 71:77

Belarus earned the second win at the 2011 European Championship in Division B Qualifying Round. The victory propelled Belarus to 2-4 record in Group B. Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79) scored 14 points to lead the effort. Albania fell at 0-6 record in the ladder.
It was never an easy battle for Belarus. The hosts stayed in charge throughout the first half. Albania posted a 26:23 lead at the first break. Albania used a 12:0 run midway through the second quarter to ensure a 40:28 advantage. Belarus cut the deficit but still trailed by 4 points at the interval 43:47. Albania did not slow down keeping the visitors at distance throughout the third term. The hosts entered the fourth frame up by 8 points 58:50. Belarus needed a 10:1 run midway through the fourth period to surge ahead 66:65. The lead then changed hands for several times before Paliaschuk, Charykau and Lashkevich sealed the winning outcome for Belarus. Dzianis Korshuk (201-F-78, agency: Agency No 10) delivered 13 points, while Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) accounted for 12 in the victory. Ermal Kurtoglu (208-C-80, agency: Beo Basket) answered with game-high 20 points and 8 rebounds for Belarus. Franko Bushati (188-G-85) netted 19 points and issued 5 assists in the loss.

Albania: Ermal Kurtoglu 20, Franko Bushati 19
Belarus: Pavel Ulyanko 14, Dzianis Korshuk 13, Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 12


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  AUSTRALIA   


2011 Univeriade. Australia post first win, romp past Hong Kong - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Hong Kong 103:51

Australia registered the first win at 2011 World University Games in Shenzhen. The Aussies rallied past Hong Kong for 1-1 record in Group B. Ryan Broekhoff (198-F/G-90) and Benjamin Dowdell (200-F-88) knocked down 19 points each to lead the winners. Hong Kong fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Australia stunned their opponents in the opening quarter. They exploded with 29 points to take an 18-point lead into the second frame. Australia stayed on fire in the second stanza. They recorded a massive 60:26 halftime advantage. The gap grew at 50-point mark in the third frame and Australia did not look back en route to the victory then. Corey Maynard (190-G-91) nailed 15 points, while Matthew Hodgson (211-C-91) and Cameron Gliddon (196-G/F-89, college: Concordia Irvine) had 10 points each in the win. Lee Ki (177-PG-87) answered with 14 points for Hong Kong. Chan Yik Lun (190-G-87) posted 11 points in the loss.

Australia: Ryan Broekhoff 19, Benjamin Dowdell 19, Corey Maynard 15
Hong Kong: Lee Ki 14, Chan Yik Lun 11



Australia edge China in London - by Eurobasket News
Australia - China 71:43

Australia opened London Invitational Tournament with victory. They outscored China in the opener. Peter Crawford (193-G-79) knocked down 15 points to lead the effort.
The Boomers secured a 17:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Australia limited China to just five points in the second quarter and established a 32:19 halftime advantage. The Boomers maintained the lead throughout the third frame. They knocked down 21 points in the period to lead by as many as 21 points with ten minutes remaining. China managed only 11 points in the fourth stanza and had to surrender at the end. David Barlow (205-F-83, college: Metro St.) provided 14 points, while Andrew James Ogilvy (211-C-88, college: Vanderbilt) added 11 points in the winning case. Zhang Bo (200-G/F-89) responded with 13 points for China. Jianlian Yi (212-C/F-87) had 7 points in the loss. China will face Serbia, while Australia will take on France tomorrow.

Australia: Peter Crawford 15, David Barlow 14, Andrew James Ogilvy 11
China: Zhang Bo 13, Jianlian Yi 7


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  BELARUS   


Belarus tame Albania in Tirana - by Eurobasket News
Albania - Belarus 71:77

Belarus earned the second win at the 2011 European Championship in Division B Qualifying Round. The victory propelled Belarus to 2-4 record in Group B. Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79) scored 14 points to lead the effort. Albania fell at 0-6 record in the ladder.
It was never an easy battle for Belarus. The hosts stayed in charge throughout the first half. Albania posted a 26:23 lead at the first break. Albania used a 12:0 run midway through the second quarter to ensure a 40:28 advantage. Belarus cut the deficit but still trailed by 4 points at the interval 43:47. Albania did not slow down keeping the visitors at distance throughout the third term. The hosts entered the fourth frame up by 8 points 58:50. Belarus needed a 10:1 run midway through the fourth period to surge ahead 66:65. The lead then changed hands for several times before Paliaschuk, Charykau and Lashkevich sealed the winning outcome for Belarus. Dzianis Korshuk (201-F-78, agency: Agency No 10) delivered 13 points, while Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) accounted for 12 in the victory. Ermal Kurtoglu (208-C-80, agency: Beo Basket) answered with game-high 20 points and 8 rebounds for Belarus. Franko Bushati (188-G-85) netted 19 points and issued 5 assists in the loss.

Albania: Ermal Kurtoglu 20, Franko Bushati 19
Belarus: Pavel Ulyanko 14, Dzianis Korshuk 13, Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 12


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  BOSNIA   


Edin Bavcic signs with Vanoli Braga Cremona - by Eurobasket News
Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Italy. The Bosnian power forward signed a one-year deal with Vanoli Braga Cremona. Bavcic is not a new face in SerieA as he started last season with Enel Brindisi. However, he appeared just four times with Brindisi before getting a deal with Khimik-OPZ Yuzny in Ukraine. There Bavcic averaged 9.3 points and 5.2 rebounds for 22 games in Superleague. He also added 10.2 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 5 games in EuroChallenge. In March this year Edin Bavcic moved to Greece. He played 16 games for Aris Thessaloniki registering 10.1 ppg and 6.2 rpg. Bavcic was awarded with Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Bosmans Team -11. In the past, he played for Union Olimpija, Kepez and Bosna ASA BHT. Edin Bavcic is active member of the Bosnian National Team since 2005.

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  BRAZIL   


Sorocaba waived Andy Gebru and replace him with Matao - by Paulo Freire
The American Andy Gebru (193-G-87, college: Fayetteville St.) was released by Sorocaba Basketball Team (LSB) and is going back to the United States to recover from knee injury which ruled him out of the last match against Americana.

Mateus Rossi, a physiotherapist from the team, has found that Andy's knee injury was more serious and it was affecting the performance of the athlete, so since the recovery time for Andy is very large, they decided to released him to treat in USA.

The Sorocaba team has announced on Monday (15), the signing of Luciano Junior (201-F-86, college: Idaho), more knowing as Matao. the former Assis Basket will replace Andy Gebru. Matao already start training this week.

Head Coach Rinaldo Rodrigues, said the player has good fundamentals. 'He has good three-point shooter and can help us greatly in this bad start on the Paulista thay our team is, I he can also fit well in the replace of Andy who returned to the U.S. to treat his injury,' Rinaldo said.



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  BULGARIA   


Branko Mirkovic return to Rilski Sportist - by Eurobasket Center
Rilski Sportist Samokov signed 29-year old Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (185-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza). This will be his second campaign in Rilski where he spent two years. In 2009 they won toghther Balkan League. Mirkovic played most recently at BC Igokea Aleksandrovac (Bosnia). While playing Adriatic League for Igokea last season his stats were: 9 games: 2.8ppg and 1.3apg

Spain cruise past Bulgaria in Guadalajara - by Eurobasket News
Spain NT-Bulgaria NT 96:59

Spain cruise past Bulgaria in Guadalajara in the friendly encounter to prepare better for Eurobasket 2011. The hosts easily won another friendly game winning 96:59.
It was a quick start for the home side that went on a lead from the very beginning. Spain had 16:7 midway through the quarter and reached 27:10 at the end of the first period. Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky) and his team however opened the second frame with 7-2 run, while the board showed 32:19 later in the quarter. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) took the control for his side and brought 55:27 at the halftime scoring 5 three-pointers at that time. The third quarter was the most productive for Bulgaria that played tough. Spain managed to add 17-16 in the third frame for 72:43. Another 24-16 in the last quarter brought more comfortable victory for the favorites.
Juan Carlos Navarro stepped up with 19 points, while Sergio Llull (190-PG-87) notched 17. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) scored 15, whilst Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) delivered 8. Filip Videnov replied with 15 points in defeat and Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) netted 9.

Spain NT: Juan Carlos Navarro 19, Sergio Llull 17, Pau Gasol 15, Felipe Reyes 8
Bulgaria NT: Filip Videnov 15, Earl Rowland 9


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  CAMEROON   


Indomitable Lions arrived in Antananarivo - by Kristian Santiago
Under the guidance of head coach Lazare Adingono , the Indomitable Lions arrived in Madagascar to compete for the African crown.
No Luc Mbah a Moute (200-G/F-86, college: UCLA), Brice Vounang (202-F/C-82, college: San Diego), Harding NaNa (203-F-81, college: Delaware) or Ruben Boumtje (212-C-78, college: Georgetown) for the ambitioned country, still the Central African nation should be counted in for the top three spots in this year's edition.

The roster:

Parfait Bitee (188-G-85)
Cyrille Makanda (195-G-80)
Brice Nengsu (190-G-83, college: Angelo St.)
Christian Bayang (193-G-87)
Franck Ndongo (198-F-88)
Chris Rodgers (196-G-84, college: Arizona)
Georges Manyaka (F/C)
Gaston Essengue (203-F-83, college: UNLV)
Alfred Aboya (206-F/C-85, college: UCLA)
Alexis Wangmene (200-F/C-89)
Benoit Owona (188-G/F-89)
Aldo Curti (180-G-87)



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  CANADA   


Canada to open 7-team pro basketball league - by Eurobasket News
A new professional basketball league in Canada plans to open in November with seven teams and a 36-game schedule.

The National Basketball League of Canada announced Thursday that Moncton, New Brunswick, will become the seventh franchise for the 2011-12 season. The city joins teams in Halifax, Nova Scotia; Quebec City; Saint John, New Brunswick; and London and Oshawa in Ontario. Another team will be in Prince Edward Island, although the city is not set.

The league plans a two-day draft Aug. 20-21 in Toronto. The first day will involve players from outside the country. The second day will be for Canadian players.

Courtesy of www.seattlepi.com

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  CHINA   


Whampoa and Jiangsu won NBL Semi-Final openers - by Eurobasket News
Sichuan - Whampoa 98-106

Sichuan was ahead by 7 points after three quarters before a 36-21 charge of Whampoa, which allowed them to win the game. Sichuan was plagued by 32 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Alan Wiggins (206-85, college: USF) nailed a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!) and 24 rebounds for the winning side and guard SongWei Wu (192-79) accounted for 11 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. American guard T.J. Bannister (180-84, college: Liberty) came up with a double-double by scoring 32 points, 8 rebounds and 13 assists and the other American import forward Alexander McLean (203-85, agency: Strategic Sports) added 27 points and 13 rebounds respectively for Sichuan in the defeat. Five Whampoa and four Sichuan players scored in double figures. Sichuan's coach Joseph Stiebing rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Sichuan: B.T.J. 32+8reb+13ast, M.Alexander 27+13reb+1ast, C.Ma 13+5reb+1ast, J.QiZhen 11+7reb+1ast, H.XiaoBin 7+3reb, S.TianNong 5+4reb+2ast
Whampoa: W.Alan 33+24reb+3ast, Y.ZhiYong 16+1reb, Y.Ning 15+1reb+2ast, H.Eric 12+8reb+1ast, W.SongWei 11+5reb+5ast, W.Jing 10+6reb
gschID: 133746


Jiangsu - Changan Group 94-81

The game was mostly controlled by Jiangsu. Changan Group managed to win second period 21-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Changan Group 47-33 including 22 on the offensive glass. U.S. Virgin Isl.-Antiguan guard Julius Hodge (201-83, college: N.Carolina St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 15 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners and American forward Vincent Hunter (208-84, college: Arkansas) chipped in 20 points and 8 rebounds. At the losing side American guard Nick Stallings (190-83, college: Centenary) responded with 21 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists and the other American import center Darnell Cox (211-85, college: Miss.Valley St., agency: Court Side) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds. Five Changan Group players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Changan Group: S.Nick 21+8reb+7ast, S.Lei 14+2reb, C.Darnell 14+13reb+1ast, R.XiaTi 11+5reb+1ast, L.Peng 10+1reb+1ast, S.Jian 9+1reb+1ast
Jiangsu: H.Vincent 20+8reb, H.Julius 20+15reb+8ast, F.Xin 15+5reb+3ast, S.XianLing 10+2reb, Z.YanXi 10+1reb, F.Hui 7+4reb+2ast
gschID: 133745




China Blown Out By Australia 71-43 - by Arthur Volbert
China lost to Australia 71-43 in its first game in the London Basketball Invitational, a tournament held in preparation for the 2012 Olympics.

Wang ShiPeng (197-G/F-83) suffered an injury to his forearm, perhaps a broken bone, after 5 minutes of play. Wang Zhizhi, Zhou Peng, Ding Jinhui and Liu Wei were also absent because of injury. Mo Ke has been dropped from the team. Zhang Bo was China's best player today with with 13 points on 5 of 7 shooting in 31 minutes. Yi Jianlian had 7 points and 4 rebounds in 26 minutes but hit only 2 of 11 shots. The quickly-injured Wang ShiPeng was China's next high scorer with 6. Zhang Zhaoxu led the team with 6 rebounds in 15 minutes but scored only 1 point.



China hit 8 of 31 two-point shots, 6 of 14 three-pointers, and an abominable 9 of 27 free throws. Austalia outrebounded China 43-26 and hit 47 percent of its shots. China and Australia each had 14 turnovers, one aspect of the game which China played acceptably.

Peter Crawford led Australia with 15 points and Dave Barlow had 14 points. AJ Ogilvy scored 11. Several of Australia's best players sat out the game, such as Patty Mills, Brad Newley, Joe Ingles and Aleks Maric. Australia led 17-14 after one quarter, then outscored China 15-5 in the second quarter, 21-13 in the third and 18-11 in the fourth. China is not going to win the Asian Championship or even qualify for the Olympic play-in tournament unless it vastly improves on today's performance.

Link to box score:
http://london2012.fiba.com/pages/eng/fe/12/olym/p/gid/1/grid/A/rid/8549/sid/8509/game.html




Australia edge China in London - by Eurobasket News
Australia - China 71:43

Australia opened London Invitational Tournament with victory. They outscored China in the opener. Peter Crawford (193-G-79) knocked down 15 points to lead the effort.
The Boomers secured a 17:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Australia limited China to just five points in the second quarter and established a 32:19 halftime advantage. The Boomers maintained the lead throughout the third frame. They knocked down 21 points in the period to lead by as many as 21 points with ten minutes remaining. China managed only 11 points in the fourth stanza and had to surrender at the end. David Barlow (205-F-83, college: Metro St.) provided 14 points, while Andrew James Ogilvy (211-C-88, college: Vanderbilt) added 11 points in the winning case. Zhang Bo (200-G/F-89) responded with 13 points for China. Jianlian Yi (212-C/F-87) had 7 points in the loss. China will face Serbia, while Australia will take on France tomorrow.

Australia: Peter Crawford 15, David Barlow 14, Andrew James Ogilvy 11
China: Zhang Bo 13, Jianlian Yi 7


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  CROATIA   


Croatia prevail against Serbia at London Invitational Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Croatia - Serbia 83:71

Croatia opened London Invitational Tournament with victory. They held off Serbia behind 17 points from Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85). Croatia will face Great Britain, while Serbia will play against China tomorrow.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Croatia snatched a narrow 20:19 lead after ten minutes. Croatia stretched the lead in the second term. They fired 24 points to post a 44:36 halftime advantage. Croatia kept their opponents at bay throughout the third term. They ensured a 10-point lead into the fourth period. Croatia outscored Serbia in the fourth quarter and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) notched 12 points, while Ante Tomic (217-C-87) added 11 points for the winners. Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) replied with 18 points, 5 boards and 4 assists for Serbia. Nenad Krstic (214-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) and Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) accounted for 10 points each in the loss.

Croatia: Krunoslav Simon 17, Dontaye Draper 12, Ante Tomic 11
Serbia: Milos Teodosic 18, Nenad Krstic 10, Milan Macvan 10


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Ostrava Fills Out Roster for 2011-12 NBL Season - by Surujh Roopnarine
BK NH Ostrava has added much-needed reinforcements for the upcoming NBL season as the team begins their training regimen in the Beskydy Mountains. After seeing promising young forward Lukas Palyza move to Nymburk the club also decided to not bring back any of the five foreigners who were with the club last season. They were interested in re-signing Canadian forward Andrew Spagrud, but he decided to return home to pursue other opportunities. What it means for Ostrava is that five of their top six scorers, including the top four, from last season are gone. Knowing that re-tooling efficiently would be key if they hoped to repeat last seasons fifth-place finish in the regular season, the club has brought in a pair of Americans and a Greek as imports for this season. First up is Semaj Inge (193-G-87, college: Temple), a 6-4 combo-guard out of Temple University. The third-year pro spent the last two seasons in Iceland. This past year with Haukar he appeared in 25 games and was third in the league in scoring at 21.8 points per game, while also averaging 7.6 points, 5.2 assists, 3.2 steals and even 1.4 blocks while shooting 56.8% from the field. More of a driver and penetrator, Inge is able to create offense for himself as well as teammates, but will need to improve his outside shot to be truly effective in the NBL (12-59 3PT field goals last season). The next signing is 6-5 guard/forward Riley Luettgerodt (196-G/F-85, college: Hawaii), who hails from Oregon and spent the 2010-11 season in Portugal with Sampaense Basket. There he earned Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese League 1st Team Honors as well as Newcomer of the Year after averaging 21.0 points (1st in the league), 5.0 rebounds and 2.6 rebounds in 21 games. Luettgerodt completed his collegiate career at the University of Hawaii in 2008, and at 26, with good size and a solid shooting stroke, should provide some of the output similar to what Palyza gave Ostrava last season.
The final addition is 6-10 big man Savvas Manousos (208-F/C-85). Manousos, with his impressive size has been an intriguing prospect the past several years, but his production, at relatively low-levels of competition has not equaled the potential. A member of the Greece U16 National Team in 2001, Manousos spent this past season with AMS Anagennisi Floga in Greeces third division. In 2009-10 he saw limited action with Proteas EKA AEL Limassol of Cyprus, where he appeared in 5 EuroChallnge contests, averaging 3.2 points and 2.6 rebounds. While his size will help fill the void of the departures of Dwight Burke and Cezary Trybanski, his raw, under-developed skill set will be put to the test by some of the leagues better front courts.


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  D-LEAGUE   


Veteran Guard MaJic Dorsey Inks Deal with Halcones UV Xalapa - by Surujh Roopnarine
Majic Dorsey (6'1''-G-81, college: S.Indiana), formerly of the NBA D-League's Reno Big Horns, has signed with Mexican powerhouse Halcones UV Xalapa for the 2011-12 LNBP season. A 30-year old guard from Baltimore, Maryland, Dorsey is no stranger to Mexico and Latin America, having been the LNBPs leading scorer (35.4ppg) in 2006 while a member of Mayas de Yucatan. Xalapa are coming off a 2010-11 season which saw them fall in the semi-finals of the playoffs to eventual champions Toros Nuevo Laredo. Under new Head Coach Andy Stoglin , Xalapa will utilize the dynamic Dorsey at both the point and off-guard positions in a fast, up-tempo system which suits the veteran just fine. I have always wanted to play for this team, they have a very NBA-style organization, very professional I came to this city because I want to give them another championship Dorsey said about his signing in Xalapa. Dorsey made a name for himself coming up out of Brevard Community College, earning American Basketball Association (ABA) Rookie of the Year Honors in his first professional season after college, along with touring with the And 1 Streetball Tour. While the D-League had been the place where MaJic tuned his skills against NBA-caliber opponents on a nightly-basis, the showman, the star, always shined its brightest in Mexico. He has spent the last two seasons playing with Meteoros de Yucatan-Merida in addition to an exhibition tour in China.
Dorsey has played in 147 career D-League games over five seasons, with career averages of 9.1 points, 1.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting 43.2% from the field and 83.0% from the free-throw line.
A re-vamped Xalapa roster featuring Dorsey is sure to be one of the favorites to capture the LNPB crown this season, and for the man they call MaJic, the spotlight and big stage is his place to shine.


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  EUROCUP   


Le Mans bring in Marcellus Sommerville - by Eurobasket News
Le Mans strengthened their frontcourt. They landed Marcellus Sommerville (200-F-82, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Bradley). The forward spent the previous season in Paris-Levallois. He averaged 13.5 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.0 assist per game in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round. In ProA the forward posted 12.8 points, 6.3 boards, 2.0 assists and 1.5 steals per appearance. Previously Marcellus Sommerville had stints with Chalons, Cholet, Dexia Mons-Hainaut, Roanne, Le Havre, Angers, Atomeromu.



Jerusalem Close to Getting D.J. Strawberry, Agreed Terms with Nate Miller - by David Pick
Posted: August 17, 2011, 03:58 AM

Amidst all the hype regarding ex-sharp shooter Roger Mason re-joining Hapoel Jerusalem, it seems like head coach Oded Katash is surprisingly finalizing his roster with a few last touches. Hapoel is currently negotiating contract terms with American scorer D.J. Strawberry, and agreed on terms with the talented swingman -- Nate Miller.

According to Eurobasket's reports nearly a month ago, 6-foot-5 Strawberry is likely to become the newest member of Hapoel. Strawberry was scouted in Israel early on both by Maccabi T.A. and Hapoel J-M. After the Euroleague finalist decided to go with Greek point guard Theodoros Papaloukas, Strawberry made it his primary goal to prove Maccabi's move was wrong, and close a deal with J-M. The team's offer is already on the table and its up to the player's representative's to seal the deal. 'Looks like the deal will be closed soon,' a source with knowledge of the situation said.

An ACC All-Defensive team, dynamic and versatile playmaker is what stands out when thinking of Strawberry. Last summer, the 26-year-old Maryland graduate played for the Los Angeles Lakers in Vegas, averaging 13 points in 26 minutes, resulting in J-M giving him a serious look before eventually deciding to go with Will Solomon. In 2010, Strawberry was signed by the New Orleans Hornets to a non-guaranteed deal before finishing the season with Rytas Vilnius, playing in the Euroleague, VTB United league, Baltic and domestic Lithuanian competition.

 Nate Miller Waiting For Team's Decision

Eurobasket reveals that Miller, whose rights were owned by Maccabi Tel Aviv until July 1st, and recently signed with Be'er Yaakov from division two, has a free opt out clause in his contract, once he receives a firm offer from any division one team.

Discussions between Miller and J-M began over a week ago, as the player agreed to join as the fifth American, mostly hooping in Europe and altering every couple of games in local play. The team's decision isnt final yet, but they're expected to inform the agent and his player what the verdict is within the next 48 hours, after already agreeing on the yearly salary. At first, Jerusalem was interested in signing Miller for three years and sending him overseas for the upcoming season, however, the two sides seemed to agree on a two-year deal that will be closed shortly.

Last year the 6-foot-4 Ohio native played in second division for Hapoel Yokneam/Megido and help lead the team to the domestic semi-finals, recording impressive averages of 22.0 ppg, 7.5 rpg and 3.4 apg. In addition, Miller also led the league in steals with 3.1 per game. His recent awards were Eurobasket.com All-Israeli National League Defensive Player of the Year, and Eurobasket.com All-Israeli National League 1st Team member.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Ratko Varda joins Union Olimpija - by Eurobasket News
Union Olimpija seriously bolstered their frontcourt for the upcoming season. They agreed on terms of contract with Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79, agency: Alti Sport). The deal is meant for one season. The centre played for Asseco Prokom last season. Ratko Varda posted 9.8 points, 5.4 boards and 1.9 steals per game in PLK. In VTB League his stats read 7.7 points and 4.0 rebounds per appearance. Ratko Varda also posted 13.3 points and 4.5 rebounds per game in Euroleague. The centre participated at PLK All-Star Game. He was named into All-Polish League 2nd Team by Eurobasket.com. Our site also trumped Ratko Varda All-Polish League Bosman Player of the Year. The centre is the member of Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team.



Remember Me? Doron Perkins is Back - by David Pick
Posted: August 16, 2011, 16:53

March 29th, 2011 - was the date that changed Doron Perkins' basketball career forever. It was a night that Maccabi won, but 'Perk' lost, as he went down tearing his meniscus and many ligaments in his knee, watching his Euroleague breakthrough season fly out the window. Now, in the midst of Maccabi's player signings, and opt-outs situation, Doron forgets about the past and focuses on his future.

'Maccabi would definitely be the most comfortable fit for me next season; however, they didn't present any offer yet,' revealed Perkins in his first summer interview since leaving Israel. Maccabi is currently looking for another guard and Perkins knows he may be the missing piece 'I have other European offers but the history I share with Maccabi and the fans brings back good memories. They know most about my condition and physical history and could treat me the best way possible. I definitely will give them first priority but
there are other things in the mix that I need to consider as well. Still, basketball is a business and sometimes you need to step out of your comfort zone to be successful.'

Looks like Maccabi moved on, do you feel forgotten?

'Not at all. I havent spoken with Coach Blatt but I talk with the physiotherapist Rafael Virshuvski and update him about my progress. There's talk with Maccabi but no offer on the table. Basketball is a business and sometimes you have to move on. I'm working hard and improving every day, so we'll see what happens.'

A definite Euroleague Defensive Player of The Year nominee, Perkins success was stopped when told he'd sit out until December. Nowadays, Perk's been training in Las Vegas for the past few weeks with German specialist Wiebke Redlin who is dedicated to the player full time. A demanding daily, five hour schedule of diverse training methods, keeps Doron's hopes of a full forced recovery, very much alive.

'I'm just focusing on getting better as quickly as possible. Training is tough but I'm willing to put the effort into it. I feel great but I'm not there just yet. I can jump, run and even play with a basketball but now we're concentrating on speed, quickness and strength. My goal is to get back into the shape I was in before the injury.'

What are your thoughts about the situation with Jeremy Pargo?

'I'm not surprised; Jeremy always wanted to play in the NBA. Everyone knows that it's his dream. He is a championship caliber player who was a great teammate, and there's no doubt in my mind he will be very successful in the NBA.'

Who will Blatt's first point guard be, Farmar or Papaloukas?

'Maccabi brought in Farmar and Papaloukas because they had to replace Jeremy and I. Blatt is a great coach and I'm sure that whatever he does, he knows how to make the best situation and bring out of good in his players at all times, on and off the court.

Do you think the NBA lockout is good for European basketball?

'Yes I do. It brings the European basketball closer to the NBA in terms of level of competition. The Euroleague has some great players and it's being played at a very high level. I'm sure there are players that think to themselves that their coming to Europe and will dominate, but their wrong and will be surprised by the difficulties they'll have because of the European talent.'

Did you get a chance to congratulate Derrick Sharp on becoming an assists coach?

'No not yet, I need to call him. I know for a fact that Derek wanted to keep playing the game. Even more so, I know he could still play at a high level. His work ethic is amazing and he is in great shape and takes care of his body. But at the same time he wanted to get into coaching so I guess he found the best situation.'

Watch Doron Perkins' training - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K54QRxTbrzU

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd



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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Georgia Gets Revenge With 97:91 Over Israel - by David Pick
Posted: August 16, 2011, 19:06 PM

Georgia vs. Israel 97:91

Israeli forward Guy Pnini had a monstrous 31 point game leading all scorers, however, Georgia, would be the one to prevail with a close 97:91, defenseless game 'W', sending Israeli coach Arik Shivek home with a lot of homework.

Pnini came out red hot hitting two threes in the first period, but Georgia still took a 25:24 lead. Arik Shivek picked up a technical foul and Israel dug itself a 36:32, hole before heading to the locker rooms down by a bucket, 45:43. Vladimir Boisa led a Georgian third quarter 10:4 run, making it 55:47. Benetton Treviso's new point guard Gal Mekel made some good plays, including jumpers by David Blu, pulled Israel back in it with a minimal 69:66, deficit beginning the fourth. Pnini kept getting buckets but Lior Eliyahu missed a pair of free throws and sealed the game.

Lior Eliyahu, Tal Burstein and David Blu each had 14. Gal Mekel and Yaniv Green added 10 and 6 respectively for Israel. Zaza Pachulia led the hosts with 18 points.

Israel's record would drop to a negative 5-2, yet, all seven games were played without NBA star Omri Casspi who hopes to return before August 31st, when Israeli lays its opening EuroBasket game in Lithuania against Germany and NBA champion Dirk Nowitzki. .

Israel as recalled was pooled to Group B, one of the toughest groups in the EuroBasket games, along with Italy, Serbia, France, Germany and Latvia. Georgia is in Group D with Belgium, Bulgaria, Russia, Slovenia and Ukraine.

During August 22-24, Israel will host its final European competition games before heading to Lithuania, playing both national teams from Russia and Poland.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

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. Sweden5-1
2. Azerbaijan.4-1
3. Romania3-2
4. Belarus2-4
5. Albania0-6
Group C
1. Czech Rep.3-0
2. Slovakia2-1
3. Switzerlan.1-2
4. Cyprus0-3


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Peter LORANT
  HUN
  (207-F/C-85)
  Avg: 14
 1. Lorant, HUN14.0 
 2. Miranda, POR12.5 
 3. Trotter, HUN11.5 
 4. Horvath, HUN11.5 
 5. Huff, FIN11.0 
 6. Rannikko, FIN11.0 
 7. Kotti, FIN11.0 
 8. Andrade, POR11.0 
 9. Lee, FIN10.5 
 10. Hanga, HUN10.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Paulo CUNHA
  (199-G/F-80)
  Avg: 8
 1. Cunha, POR8.0 
 2. Andrade, POR7.0 
 3. Kotti, FIN6.0 
 4. Huff, FIN6.0 
 5. Salin, FIN6.0 
 6. Hanga, HUN5.5 
 7. Lorant, HUN5.0 
 8. Trotter, HUN5.0 
 9. Keller, HUN4.5 
 10. Bader, HUN4.5 
Assists Per Game
 Filipe DA SILVA
  (185-F-86)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Da Silva, POR4.5 
 2. Koponen, FIN4.5 
 3. Rannikko, FIN4.0 
 4. Hanga, HUN3.5 
 5. Lorant, HUN3.0 
 6. Costa, POR2.5 
 7. Horvath, HUN2.5 
 8. Huff, FIN2.5 
 9. Trotter, HUN2.0 
 10. Santos, POR1.5 
Steals Per Game
 Obie TROTTER
  USA
  (186-G-84)
  Avg: 4
 1. Trotter, HUN4.0 
 2. Hanga, HUN3.0 
 3. Kotti, FIN2.5 
 4. Andrade, POR1.5 
 5. Miranda, POR1.5 
 6. Horvath, HUN1.0 
 7. Rannikko, FIN1.0 
 8. Santos, POR1.0 
 9. Huff, FIN1.0 
 10. Cunha, POR1.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Elvis EVORA
  CPV
  (205-C-78)
  Avg: 1
 1. Evora, POR1.0 
 2. Keller, HUN1.0 
 3. Rannikko, FIN0.5 
 4. Salin, FIN0.5 
 5. Trotter, HUN0.5 
 6. Muurinen, FIN0.5 
 7. Lee, FIN0.5 
 8. Kotti, FIN0.5 
 9. Huff, FIN0.0 
 10. Fodor, HUN0.0 


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  FINLAND   


Aanekosken Huima adds Viertola to their roster - by Greg
Justice Graham , the head coach of Aanekosken Huima, has just made another big step and signed 21-year old forward Tuomas Viertola (197-F-90). Tuomas played most recently at Forssan Koripojat (1st Division). While playing 25 games for FoKoPo last season he averaged 8.4ppg, 2.8rpg and 2.4apg.

Viertola was a member of Finnish U18 and U20 National Teams.

Coach Graham has said 'We really wanted to have a player like this and I am looking for Tuomas to be a big part of the team. We are working hard in the practices to make our team better and I am sure that we will fight for the best result till the end of the season'



KORISLIIGA: KTP inked with Bennet Davis - by Rauno Hurmalainen
KTP (Kotka) new Head Coach Lars Ekstrom (agency: Edge Sports ) has found all three foreigner players for his roster for 2011-12 season. KTP signed already earlier with American G-F Terrell Bell (198-G/F-89, college: Virginia Tech) and American F-C Gregory Washington (208-F-84, college: Hofstra) and now KTP inked with Bahamian F Bennet Davis (206-F-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Northeastern). Davis has played a few seasons in NBA D-league averaging last season 8,6 ppg and 6,1 rpg on Utah Flash roster. Ekstrom thinks these players will fit very well among team's Finnish players.

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  FRANCE   


Le Mans bring in Marcellus Sommerville - by Eurobasket News
Le Mans strengthened their frontcourt. They landed Marcellus Sommerville (200-F-82, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Bradley). The forward spent the previous season in Paris-Levallois. He averaged 13.5 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.0 assist per game in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round. In ProA the forward posted 12.8 points, 6.3 boards, 2.0 assists and 1.5 steals per appearance. Previously Marcellus Sommerville had stints with Chalons, Cholet, Dexia Mons-Hainaut, Roanne, Le Havre, Angers, Atomeromu.



Justin Harper joins Strasbourg - by Eurobasket News
Strasbourg have secured the services of Justin Harper (208-F-89) for the next season. The 21-year-old forward will start his pro career in France. Justin Harper graduated from the University of Richmond in 2011. He averaged 17.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.2 blocks per game in his senior season. Justin Harper was named into All-Atlantic 10 1st Team. The forward also made it into NABC Division I All-District 4 1st Team. He was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers and sent immediately to the Orlando Magic this summer.



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  GERMANY   


Alba Berlin Add Alexander Blessing, Can-Jonathan Kleiner and Kevin Bright For The China Trip - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Alba Berlin depart for the far east tomorrow to China as they will get ready for the upcoming season with a two week training camp. The 8 time Beko BBL team will also take part in the Continental Basketball Club Championships from August 23-28. The club will have heavy competition as the following teams Cairns Taipans (Australia), Xinjiang Flying Tigers (China), Kentucky Bisons (USA), Dongbu Promy (Korea),and Beijing Jinyu Ducks (China). The trip will be an amazing experience for the players and a great opportunity for the team to get to know each other. 'We are look forward to this unique trip. We are also looking forward to the great traning facilities, tournament and the cultural experiences that we will gather', stressed Alba Berlin coach Gordon Herbert. Since German national players Heiko Schaffartzik, Lucca Staiger and Sven Schultze are still occupied with the preparation for the European chmapionships, Alba Berlin will take three youngsters on the trip Alexander Blessing, Can-Jonathan Kleiner and Kevin Bright (198-F/G-92) will accompany the team. Blessing is a 17 year old 185 cm guard that played last season for FC Bayern Muenchen (ProA): 4 games: 1.5ppg, has the licence to play in FC Bayern Muenchen II (2.Regionalliga). Blessing will play this season for the Alba Berlin Pro B team and NBBL team. Can-Jonathan Kleiner (198-F-92) is an 18 year old 198cm forward that played for ALBA Berlin II (ProB) last season playing 11 games: 4.5ppg, 2.1rpg. The last player that will make the trip is Kevin Bright who is an 18 year old 198cm shooting guard/small forward that has played for Erdgas Ehingen/Urspringschule (ProB) since 2007 and made his debut in the PRO B as a 15 year old and has already played 48 PRO B games. He travels to China and support the partnership with the team Alba/Urspring.

Source: Alba Berlin

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  GREECE   


Aris tab Sam Muldrow - by Eurobasket News
Aris announced another signing. They agreed on terms of contract with Sam Muldrow (205-F, agency: Impact Basketball). The forward will start his pro career in Greece. Sam Muldrow graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2011. He tallied 11.4 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.4 blocks per game in the senior season. The forward was named All-SEC Defensive Player of the Year. Sam Muldrow participated at Pre-NBA Draft Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. His stats read 7.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.7 blocks and 1.3 assists per appearance at the tourney.



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  HOLLAND   


EiffelTowers head-coach Raoul Korner, "A hungry team, ready to take the next step" - by Fred Roggen
Before the basketball season got under way, I had a chance to speak with the sympathetic head-coach Raoul Korner of EiffelTowers Den Bosch
about the previous and the upcoming season. His thoughts about some of his players and his philosophy .

Talk about last season, review it. How did everything go?
Overall it was a very good season. If you had told me before the season, that we would lose Skip Mills before the Playoffs and still make it to game 5 against Groningen in the Semis, I would have taken that right away. Nevertheless, more important than the end result in my opinion was, that we brought the enthusiasm for basketball back to Den Bosch. I think the fans appreciated last year's team, the way it played and the way it interacted with the fans. That was probably the biggest and most important achievement of last season.

In hindsight is there anything you would have done differently in the semi-final games against GasTerra Flames?
In retrospective, we probably lost this series, because we couldn't finsh game 1, where we were dominant for 37 minutes and then litterally threw the game away.
This has a lot to do with experience and mental toughness. That was the only road game in the whole series, where a team had a chance to steal homecourt advantage and we didn't do that.
Also, throughout the whole series we got outmuscled under the baskets. The only chance we had was trying to confuse them with our zone defense and I think it worked out pretty good. In the last game we ran out of gas and just couldn't compete anymore. I think we have done everything possible, considering the personnel situation.
Besides game 5 I think it was a very good series with the deeper team winnning it all.

How influential do you consider your coaching style to be on the teams mentality?
I believe that you have to see the handwriting of a coach when you watch the team play, otherwise you are not doing your job well. That needs to be accomplished in daily practice. If I am sloppy, so will be my players. Only if I have high standards for myself, I can demand the same from my players.

During the games, I just try to give the team what it needs each particular night. If it is being loud, I will be loud, if it is being calm, I will try to be that.
In my opinion, teams should never be over-coached and under-trained!

Raoul what is this years philosophy going to be?
Defensively will not change much. I still see as a defensive team. Throughout last season we developed some kind of collective pride of our team defense, and that really helped us.
It got lost a little bit when we lost Mills and when we had a shorter rotation. Gonzalvez will help us a lot to get there again.
On the offensive end, we still want to move the ball, control tempo, execute with discipline to create good shots, but I expect us to have more inside-outside-balance this season.

How does this years team compare to last years?
After last season we analyzed our team and it didn't take long to realize, that we lacked inside presence - back to the basket scoring and rebounding.
That's were we decided to make changes and bring in Peter van Paassen and Tai Wesley. Both are capable scorers and should provide us with quality under the basket on both ends. So while we were very guard oriented last season, I expect us to have much more inside presence in the season to come.
David Gonzalvez will also add athleticism, energy and a lot of quality to our back court. Something Skip Mills did for us last season until he got hurt.

Could you talk about Frank Turner and what you expect from him this season?
Frank had a very good rookie season last year and I expect him to play even better - especially more consistant - this season.
He worked out very hard this summer and came back in top shape. He already set the tone for all the other guys at the first physical tests and instantly showed that he is willing to lead by example. That's what you want from your point guard! If he continues to work that hard, he/we will have a very good season.

On Peter van Paassen and his return.
Having Peter on our team is very beneficial for multiple reasons: One, he gives us senior leadership on and off the court and two, he is a quality big man, who understands the game well. Him being healthy this season will be key for us!

On Jeroen van der List and his development.
Jeroen showed many times last season, why he is considered a big talent. But he has also showed in spurts why he is still considered a big talent and not a big player yet.
He needs to get more consistant, not only in the games, but even more in practices, and understand how he can be helpful for his team, especially when his shots don't drop.
He has all the support, but at the end of the day it will be up to him to make the transition from the talent to the player!

What is the key defensively of how you get that done?
We will have to get back to what I call 'collective defensive pride'. It's easy to motivate players to play offense, but if your team really wants to play defense, you have a good chance to win games. If we then improve our rebounding this season, we should be a good defensive team.

On the offense?
The style we played last season was already going into the right direction: ball movement, tempo control, discipline in execution.
We need to get better at executing against physical pressure and involve our post players more. 'Inside-outside-balanced attack' is what my players will hear a lot in the next months. Consistancy should help us to find 'our style' sooner this season.

What are you going to have to do to prevent the team from getting down?
During a long season you have your ups and downs. Inportant is to have the downs at the right time and to recover from those bad periods properly.
This is why team chemistry is so important. Championship teams don't look for excuses, but for solutions! You never know what a team is really made of until you hit adversity. This is where you can see the difference between an average team and a championship team. So it is not about preventing to get down, it is about making sure to get up immediately!

What do you think about the depth of the roster right now?
I am happy with our roster. It has a good balance between experienced and young players. If everybody stays healthy, we definitely have enough depth. If a key player gets hurt (like it was last season), we might have a problem compensating this for a longer period.

What can we expect from the EiffelTowers when they take the floor in the 11-12?
A hungry team, ready to take the next step!

What one or two things are most important for the EiffelTowers to do well to have success in the upcoming season?
Develop chemistry and stay healthy!

Is this team getting close to what you would consider the ideal team?
For right now I like the setup of our team a lot. I think we made good adjustments from last season. We also kept the core of the team from last season, which gives us continuity.
If we are the 'ideal team'? ... I will let you know next June...

Thanks for the time Raoul, wishing you and the team a successful season


Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen adds Acker to their roster - by Greg
Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen added to their roster 24-year old American guard Maurice Acker (173-G-87, college: Marquette, agency: Edge Sports). Acker started last season at Bakersfield Jam, but he left before the beginning of the season. Then he signed with Quebec Kebs (Canada). While playing 18 games for Quebec K. last season he averaged 8.5ppg, 2.2rpg and 3.7apg.

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  HONG KONG   


2011 Univeriade. Australia post first win, romp past Hong Kong - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Hong Kong 103:51

Australia registered the first win at 2011 World University Games in Shenzhen. The Aussies rallied past Hong Kong for 1-1 record in Group B. Ryan Broekhoff (198-F/G-90) and Benjamin Dowdell (200-F-88) knocked down 19 points each to lead the winners. Hong Kong fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Australia stunned their opponents in the opening quarter. They exploded with 29 points to take an 18-point lead into the second frame. Australia stayed on fire in the second stanza. They recorded a massive 60:26 halftime advantage. The gap grew at 50-point mark in the third frame and Australia did not look back en route to the victory then. Corey Maynard (190-G-91) nailed 15 points, while Matthew Hodgson (211-C-91) and Cameron Gliddon (196-G/F-89, college: Concordia Irvine) had 10 points each in the win. Lee Ki (177-PG-87) answered with 14 points for Hong Kong. Chan Yik Lun (190-G-87) posted 11 points in the loss.

Australia: Ryan Broekhoff 19, Benjamin Dowdell 19, Corey Maynard 15
Hong Kong: Lee Ki 14, Chan Yik Lun 11



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  ISRAEL   


Elitzur "Barak" Netanya inks Jerome Randle - by Netanel Dahan
The small PG Jerome Randle (178-G-87, college: California) has signed todey a one-year contract with Elitzur Netanya.

Randle is a scoring PG, with great speed, he graduated from the University of California and he is their All-Time scoring leader.
Jerome played last season in Turkey first he signed with Aliaga Petkim with them he averaged 17.5ppg,3.9 apg with 4 TO, but than in in January he moved to Turk Telekom Ankara in Ankara he averaged 12.8ppg, 2.5rpg,3.7 with 3 TO.

He is joining to another scoring mental player Adrian Banks who was 3rd in scoring in the Israeli league last season and it will be interesting to see the combination of both very offensive minded players playing together.

Jerusalem Close to Getting D.J. Strawberry, Agreed Terms with Nate Miller - by David Pick
Posted: August 17, 2011, 03:58 AM

Amidst all the hype regarding ex-sharp shooter Roger Mason re-joining Hapoel Jerusalem, it seems like head coach Oded Katash is surprisingly finalizing his roster with a few last touches. Hapoel is currently negotiating contract terms with American scorer D.J. Strawberry, and agreed on terms with the talented swingman -- Nate Miller.

According to Eurobasket's reports nearly a month ago, 6-foot-5 Strawberry is likely to become the newest member of Hapoel. Strawberry was scouted in Israel early on both by Maccabi T.A. and Hapoel J-M. After the Euroleague finalist decided to go with Greek point guard Theodoros Papaloukas, Strawberry made it his primary goal to prove Maccabi's move was wrong, and close a deal with J-M. The team's offer is already on the table and its up to the player's representative's to seal the deal. 'Looks like the deal will be closed soon,' a source with knowledge of the situation said.

An ACC All-Defensive team, dynamic and versatile playmaker is what stands out when thinking of Strawberry. Last summer, the 26-year-old Maryland graduate played for the Los Angeles Lakers in Vegas, averaging 13 points in 26 minutes, resulting in J-M giving him a serious look before eventually deciding to go with Will Solomon. In 2010, Strawberry was signed by the New Orleans Hornets to a non-guaranteed deal before finishing the season with Rytas Vilnius, playing in the Euroleague, VTB United league, Baltic and domestic Lithuanian competition.

 Nate Miller Waiting For Team's Decision

Eurobasket reveals that Miller, whose rights were owned by Maccabi Tel Aviv until July 1st, and recently signed with Be'er Yaakov from division two, has a free opt out clause in his contract, once he receives a firm offer from any division one team.

Discussions between Miller and J-M began over a week ago, as the player agreed to join as the fifth American, mostly hooping in Europe and altering every couple of games in local play. The team's decision isnt final yet, but they're expected to inform the agent and his player what the verdict is within the next 48 hours, after already agreeing on the yearly salary. At first, Jerusalem was interested in signing Miller for three years and sending him overseas for the upcoming season, however, the two sides seemed to agree on a two-year deal that will be closed shortly.

Last year the 6-foot-4 Ohio native played in second division for Hapoel Yokneam/Megido and help lead the team to the domestic semi-finals, recording impressive averages of 22.0 ppg, 7.5 rpg and 3.4 apg. In addition, Miller also led the league in steals with 3.1 per game. His recent awards were Eurobasket.com All-Israeli National League Defensive Player of the Year, and Eurobasket.com All-Israeli National League 1st Team member.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd


Georgia Gets Revenge With 97:91 Over Israel - by David Pick
Posted: August 16, 2011, 19:06 PM

Georgia vs. Israel 97:91

Israeli forward Guy Pnini had a monstrous 26 point game leading all scorers, however, Georgia, would be the one to prevail with a close 97:91, defenseless game 'W', sending Israeli coach Arik Shivek home with a lot of homework.

Pnini came out red hot hitting two threes in the first period, but Georgia still took a 25:24 lead. Arik Shivek picked up a technical foul and Israel dug itself a 36:32, hole before heading to the locker rooms down by a bucket, 45:43. Vladimir Boisa led a Georgian third quarter 10:4 run, making it 55:47. Benetton Treviso's new point guard Gal Mekel made some good plays, including jumpers by David Blu, pulled Israel back in it with a minimal 69:66, deficit beginning the fourth. Pnini kept getting buckets but Lior Eliyahu missed a pair of free throws and sealed the game.

Lior Eliyahu, Tal Burstein and David Blu each had 14. Gal Mekel and Yaniv Green added 10 and 6 respectively for Israel. Zaza Pachulia led the hosts with 18 points.

Israel's record would drop to a negative 5-2, yet, all seven games were played without NBA star Omri Casspi who hopes to return before August 31st, when Israeli lays its opening EuroBasket game in Lithuania against Germany and NBA champion Dirk Nowitzki. .

Israel as recalled was pooled to Group B, one of the toughest groups in the EuroBasket games, along with Italy, Serbia, France, Germany and Latvia. Georgia is in Group D with Belgium, Bulgaria, Russia, Slovenia and Ukraine.

During August 22-24, Israel will host its final European competition games before heading to Lithuania, playing both national teams from Russia and Poland.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

Remember Me? Doron Perkins is Back - by David Pick
Posted: August 16, 2011, 16:53

March 29th, 2011 - was the date that changed Doron Perkins' basketball career forever. It was a night that Maccabi won, but 'Perk' lost, as he went down tearing his meniscus and many ligaments in his knee, watching his Euroleague breakthrough season fly out the window. Now, in the midst of Maccabi's player signings, and opt-outs situation, Doron forgets about the past and focuses on his future.

'Maccabi would definitely be the most comfortable fit for me next season; however, they didn't present any offer yet,' revealed Perkins in his first summer interview since leaving Israel. Maccabi is currently looking for another guard and Perkins knows he may be the missing piece 'I have other European offers but the history I share with Maccabi and the fans brings back good memories. They know most about my condition and physical history and could treat me the best way possible. I definitely will give them first priority but
there are other things in the mix that I need to consider as well. Still, basketball is a business and sometimes you need to step out of your comfort zone to be successful.'

Looks like Maccabi moved on, do you feel forgotten?

'Not at all. I havent spoken with Coach Blatt but I talk with the physiotherapist Rafael Virshuvski and update him about my progress. There's talk with Maccabi but no offer on the table. Basketball is a business and sometimes you have to move on. I'm working hard and improving every day, so we'll see what happens.'

A definite Euroleague Defensive Player of The Year nominee, Perkins success was stopped when told he'd sit out until December. Nowadays, Perk's been training in Las Vegas for the past few weeks with German specialist Wiebke Redlin who is dedicated to the player full time. A demanding daily, five hour schedule of diverse training methods, keeps Doron's hopes of a full forced recovery, very much alive.

'I'm just focusing on getting better as quickly as possible. Training is tough but I'm willing to put the effort into it. I feel great but I'm not there just yet. I can jump, run and even play with a basketball but now we're concentrating on speed, quickness and strength. My goal is to get back into the shape I was in before the injury.'

What are your thoughts about the situation with Jeremy Pargo?

'I'm not surprised; Jeremy always wanted to play in the NBA. Everyone knows that it's his dream. He is a championship caliber player who was a great teammate, and there's no doubt in my mind he will be very successful in the NBA.'

Who will Blatt's first point guard be, Farmar or Papaloukas?

'Maccabi brought in Farmar and Papaloukas because they had to replace Jeremy and I. Blatt is a great coach and I'm sure that whatever he does, he knows how to make the best situation and bring out of good in his players at all times, on and off the court.

Do you think the NBA lockout is good for European basketball?

'Yes I do. It brings the European basketball closer to the NBA in terms of level of competition. The Euroleague has some great players and it's being played at a very high level. I'm sure there are players that think to themselves that their coming to Europe and will dominate, but their wrong and will be surprised by the difficulties they'll have because of the European talent.'

Did you get a chance to congratulate Derrick Sharp on becoming an assists coach?

'No not yet, I need to call him. I know for a fact that Derek wanted to keep playing the game. Even more so, I know he could still play at a high level. His work ethic is amazing and he is in great shape and takes care of his body. But at the same time he wanted to get into coaching so I guess he found the best situation.'

Watch Doron Perkins' training - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K54QRxTbrzU

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd



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


2011 Univeriade. Russia bruise Japan - by Eurobasket News
Russia - Japan 91:73

Russia earned the third straight win at the 2011 World University Games. They remained on top of Group C with perfect 3-0 record. Dmitry Golovin (193-G-88) nailed 18 points and pulled down 10 rebounds to lead the charge. Japan fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
Japan managed to post a 27:25 lead at the first break. The teams stayed close early in the second term but Russia capped the half on a 12:4 run to build a 43:35 advantage. Russia maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final break leading by 12 points 68:56. Japan narrowed the gap at just 6-point mark midway through the final stanza but Russia triggered a 17:5 rally to seal the victory. Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) accounted for 13 points, while Ivan Nelyubov (207-C-88) produced 12 points in the win. Takatoshi Furukawa (190-G/F-87) answered with 18 points for Japan. Daisuke Kobayashi (188-G-87) netted 14 points in the loss.

Russia: Dmitry Golovin 18+10 boards, Petr Gubanov 13, Ivan Nelyubov 12
Japan: Takatoshi Furukawa 18, Daisuke Kobayashi 14


*****************************************************
  LEBANON   


Lebanon to face Qatar,Ukraine & Algeria in Turkey Camp - by Asia-Basket Lebanon
The Lebanese National is in Turkey undergoing a training camp in which 3 games will be played against Algeria, Ukraine and Qatar.
The Lebanese New National Team is under the command of Coach Ghassan Sarkis with a target to build a new strong team for the 2013 FIBA ASIA Championship.
The new Lebanese National Team is expected to face very difficult games in the FIBA Asia Championship facing big teams like Iran, Korea, Qatar and Taiwan ,
Lebanon was always in the Final 4 in the FIBA Asia Championships for the past 5 championships: 2001 (2nd), 2003 (4th), 2005 (2nd), 2007 (2nd), 2009 (4th).

The players who are in the camp:
Jean Abedl El Nour
Elie Stephan
Elie Rustom
Rodrigue Akl
Miguel Martinez
Mohamad Ibrahim
Ghaleb Reda
Ali Kanaan
Roy Samaha
Bassel Bouji
Charles Tabet
Paul Iskandar
Aboudi Farakh
Thomas Coleman

After this camp Lebanon will move to Qatar to participate in a tournament with Qatar, Syria and the Philippines.
Lebanon also will have 2 games against Syrian in September before heading to China.


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


2011 Univeriade. Marius Valukonis leads Lithuania past New Zealand - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - New Zealand 88:79

Lithuania registered the third straight win at 2011 World University Games. They overcame New Zealand to stay perfect 3-0 on top of Group C. Marius Valukonis (198-F-88) stepped up with 27 points and 9 rebounds to pace the Baltic team.
Lithuania jumped to an early lead 15:10 but the Kiwis managed to bounce back. They stormed to a 25:17 advantage at the first break. New Zealand stretched the margin in the second quarter. They enjoyed a 14-point advantage before Lithuania cut it back to 11 points at halftime 35:46. New Zealand stayed in charge throughout the third frame. They entered the final stanza up by 10 points 63:53. New Zealand still led by 7 points with five minutes left in regulation. However Lithuania burst out with a 20:4 run late in the game to snatch a difficult victory at the end. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-PG-87) accounted for 16 points, while Gediminas Orelikas (200-G/F-90) added 13 points in the win. Dion Prewster (195-G/F-91, college: Stephen F. Austin) replied with 19 points for the Kiwis. Joshua Bloxham (192-G-90) netted 14 points in defeat.

Lithuania: Marius Valukonis 27, Ernestas Ezerskis 16, Gediminas Orelikas 13
New Zealand: Dion Prewster 19, Joshua Bloxham 14


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


Spencer "Juice" Johnson signs with Etzella - by John Thomas
Spencer Johnson (198-F-87), a 23 year old forward out of the University of Missouri Kansas City fills the foreigner spot for the 2011 Cup Champions Etzella Ettelbruck. The 1.98m forward averaged 11.7 points and a team-high 9.4 rebounds last season. The 6'6, 215 lb. Johnson hails from Champaign, Illinois. Last season for the Kangaroos, Johnson shot .444 from the field, .346 from three-point range and .648 from the free throw line... recorded 24 assists, 13 blocks and 26 steals... 283 rebounds are a UMKC single-season record, while 9.4 rebounds per game are second most in school history. He was an honorable Mention all-Summit League Selection, setting the school records for career rebounds (710) and games (121) and ranks 10th in UMKC history in scoring with 993 points. Spencer was born on Dec. 2, 1987 and is the son of Jean Sago. For a look at the rest of his bio, see the following website: http://www.umkckangaroos.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=89994&SPID=10799&DB_OEM_ID=18300&ATCLID=1263934&Q_SEASON=2010


*****************************************************
  MEXICO   


Durango wins CIBANE title - by Eurobasket News
Durango is the winner of CIBANE championship 2011. They swept Fresnillo with perfect 4-0 in the Finals. Durango opened final series with 107-97 home win. They grabbed 86-84 victory in Game Two and the Fresnillo was the host in their next two meetings. Duravgo celebrated 87-90 win in Game Three and finally won the title after 88-91 victory in the fourth game.
Durango reached the Finals after they eliminated Saltillo Caktus in the Semis. It was another perfect run for Durango, who blasted Saltillo with 3-0. On the other side, Fresnillo also was perfect in the Semifinals (3-0). They eliminated UAZ Tuzos.
Durango was the regular season champion of CIBACOPA. They had 18-2 record.


Finals - Round 1
Aug. 9, 2011 Durango M.-Fresnillo M. 107-97

Finals - Round 2
Aug. 10, 2011 Durango M.-Fresnillo M. 86-84

Finals - Round 3
Aug. 12, 2011 Fresnillo M.-Durango M. 87-90

Finals - Round 4
Aug. 13, 2011 Fresnillo M.-Durango M. 88-91


Semi-Finals - Round 1
Aug. 1, 2011 Durango M.-Saltillo Caktus 107-82
Aug. 2, 2011 Fresnillo M.-UAZ Tuzos 88-74

Semi-Finals - Round 2
Aug. 2, 2011 Durango M.-Saltillo Caktus 112-85
Aug. 3, 2011 Fresnillo M.-UAZ Tuzos 102-97

Semi-Finals - Round 3
Aug. 4, 2011 Saltillo Caktus-Durango M. 70-72
Aug. 5, 2011 UAZ Tuzos-Fresnillo M. 88-97



Halcones UV Xalapa Find Their MaJic - by Surujh Roopnarine
Daryl 'Majic' Dorsey (185-G-81, college: S.Indiana), formerly of the NBA D-Leagues Reno Big Horns, has signed with Mexican powerhouse Halcones UV Xalapa for the 2011-12 LNBP season. A 30-year old guard from Baltimore, Maryland, Dorsey is no stranger to Mexico and Latin America, having been the LNBPs leading scorer (35.4ppg) in 2006 while a member of Mayas de Yucatan. Xalapa are coming off a 2010-11 season which saw them fall in the semi-finals of the playoffs to eventual champions Toros Nuevo Laredo. Under new Head Coah Andy Stoglin, Xalapa will utilize the dynamic Dorsey at both the point and off-guard positions in a fast, up-tempo system which suits the veteran just fine. I have always wanted to play for this team, they have a very NBA-style organization, very professional I came to this city because I want to give them another championship Dorsey said about his signing in Xalapa. Dorsey made a name for himself coming up out of Brevard Community College, earning American Basketball Association (ABA) Rookie of the Year Honors in his first professional season after college, along with touring with the And 1 Streetball Tour. While the D-League had been the place where MaJic tuned his skills against NBA-caliber opponents on a nightly-basis, the showman, the star, always shined its brightest in Mexico. He has spent the last two seasons playing with Meteoros de Yucatan-Merida in addition to an exhibition tour in China.
Dorsey has played in 147 career D-League games over five seasons, with career averages of 9.1 points, 1.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting 43.2% from the field and 83.0% from the free-throw line.
A re-vamped Xalapa roster featuring Dorsey is sure to be one of the favorites to capture the LNPB crown this season, and for the man they call MaJic, the spotlight and big stage is his place to shine.


*****************************************************
  MOROCCO   


Moroccans en route to the African Championships - by Kristian Santiago
Head coach Hassane Hachad won't be able to use Younes Idrissi (204-F/C-84, college: Iona) in Antananarivo, but his son Mohammed Hachad will be on board to lead the Lions of the Atlas into the tournament.



The following players will be making the trip:

Zakaria El Masbahi (191-G-79) (AS Sale)
Abdelhakim Zouita (201-F-86) (AS Sale)
Abderrahim Najah (198-F/C-84) (AS Sale)
Reda Rhalimi (213-C-82, college: St.Mary's, CA) (AS Sale)
Soufiane Kourdou (211-C-85) (AS Sale)
Omar Lahnani (Plazza Casablanca Sport)
Mohamed Hachad (194-G-83, college: Northwestern) (Fos Ouest Provence Basket)
Soufiane Rafii (Widad Safrou AC de Casablanca)
Mustapha Khalfi (173-PG-80) (Plazza Casablanca Sport)
Hicham Amrallah (186-PG-78) (Raja de Casablanca)
Reda Ali Harras (Widad Safrou AC de Casablanca)
Mohammed Houari Bassim (Maghreb de Fes)



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


Bucks add Sidney Moncrief as coach - by Eurobasket News
Bucks coach Scott Skiles said he learned more when he was a rookie in Milwaukee than he did in any other season when he played in the NBA. That was Moncrief Sidney's team, and now the former teammates are together again on Skiles' coaching staff.

'Sidney was the leader of that group. It felt like the right time,' Skiles said Monday. 'Obviously, he's had NBA experience as a player, he's had NBA experience as a coach. He's been around our team, knows some of the things we do. It was just a good fit right now.'

The 53-year-old Moncrief was hired as an assistant in a move that had been widely expected for weeks. Moncrief was an NBA assistant with Dallas (2000-03) and Golden State (2007-09), along with a stint as head coach of the Fort Worth Flyers in the D-League in 2006-07. He also spent one year coaching at the University of Arkansas-Little Rock.

In recent years, he's also has been running a basketball skills academy that focuses on fundamentals.

'Milwaukee was one of the very few places I wanted to coach, first of all. And I only want to coach for people I respect as coaches, and Scott Skiles certainly has those credentials,' Moncrief said. 'I've always worked for myself and if I worked for anyone, I'd have to like them, like the city. Milwaukee certainly fits those criteria.'

The five-time NBA All-Star played for 10 years in Milwaukee after becoming the fifth overall pick in the 1979 draft. He won the league's first two Defensive Player of the Year awards (1983-84) and is among the Bucks' leaders in points (11,594, third), games (695, second), free throws (3,505, first), rebounds (3,447, seventh), assists (2,689, second) and steals (874, third).

'I just want to make a contribution,' Moncrief said. 'We want the Bucks to be at a level that they we recall years ago. I'm here to assist Scott Skiles and the rest of the coaching staff in reaching that level. I think the timing is right.'

The Little Rock, Ark., native replaces Kelvin Sampson, who took a coaching position with the Houston Rockets. Sampson was extremely close with 21-year-old point guard Brandon Jennings, who went from prep to overseas professional before being drafted 10th in the 2009 draft.

Skiles couldn't talk about Moncrief's responsibilities directly because of the ongoing NBA lockout, but said Moncrief would fit well with his staff that includes Jim Boylan, Joe Wolf, Bill Peterson and Anthony Goldwire.

I'm really excited,' Moncrief said. 'Milwaukee is very special to me ... It's a no-brainer being back.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Carlos Boozer: 'I plan to play overseas during lockout' - by Eurobasket News
Carlos Boozer (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Duke) is the latest All-Star to plan an overseas move.

The Chicago Bulls forward told ESPN.com he'll seriously consider playing for a foreign team if the NBA lockout isn't resolved in time for the season.

Boozer cited his experience in China with the U.S. Olympic team as one of the main motivating factors.

'If the NBA season gets delayed or postponed, I plan on using those months to experience something similar to what I did in the summer of 2008,' he said. 'That's why, if the lockout continues, I definitely plan on playing overseas.'

Boozer, 29, is coming off an injury-filled first season with the Bulls. He averaged 17.5 points per game and 9.6 rebounds while missing 23 regular-season games but struggled with inconsistency in the postseason. Chicago was swept by the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference finals after earning the No. 1 seed.

Boozer joins Dwyane Wade and Kevin Durant as former All-Stars who, in the last week, have stated their desires to latch on with a foreign team.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

PG Ty Lawson heads to Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Ty Lawson (5'11''-PG-87, college: N.Carolina) is another player who moved overseas this summer. The NBA point guard signed a deal with Lithuanian powerhouse Zalgiris Kaunas. The deal is valid until the end of the NBA lockout. Lawson spent last two seasons with Denver Nuggets. In the latest one he had 11.9 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 4.7 apg for 85 games. In 2009/10, Lawson registered 8.3 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 3.1 apg for 71 games. He led Denver to NBA Northwest Division title. Ty Lawson graduated at the North Carolina University in 2009. He had 16.6 ppg, 3 rpg and 6.6 apg for his school as a senior. Lawson was a member of the USA U18 National Team in 2005.

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


2011 Univeriade. Marius Valukonis leads Lithuania past New Zealand - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - New Zealand 88:79

Lithuania registered the third straight win at 2011 World University Games. They overcame New Zealand to stay perfect 3-0 on top of Group C. Marius Valukonis (198-F-88) stepped up with 27 points and 9 rebounds to pace the Baltic team.
Lithuania jumped to an early lead 15:10 but the Kiwis managed to bounce back. They stormed to a 25:17 advantage at the first break. New Zealand stretched the margin in the second quarter. They enjoyed a 14-point advantage before Lithuania cut it back to 11 points at halftime 35:46. New Zealand stayed in charge throughout the third frame. They entered the final stanza up by 10 points 63:53. New Zealand still led by 7 points with five minutes left in regulation. However Lithuania burst out with a 20:4 run late in the game to snatch a difficult victory at the end. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-PG-87) accounted for 16 points, while Gediminas Orelikas (200-G/F-90) added 13 points in the win. Dion Prewster (195-G/F-91, college: Stephen F. Austin) replied with 19 points for the Kiwis. Joshua Bloxham (192-G-90) netted 14 points in defeat.

Lithuania: Marius Valukonis 27, Ernestas Ezerskis 16, Gediminas Orelikas 13
New Zealand: Dion Prewster 19, Joshua Bloxham 14


*****************************************************
  NIGERIA   


Scorer Ebi Ere heads to Spain - by Eurobasket News
Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) will continue his career in Spain. The Nigerian scoring machine penned a one-year deal with Obradoiro. They will compete in Spanish top division. Ere spent last two years in Italy as a member of Pepsi JuveCaserta. In the last one he had 14.1 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.6 apg in SerieA. Caserta also competed in EuroCup, where Ere collected 13.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 1.2 spg in 14 games. Ebi Ere was one of the best Caserta players in 2009/10 as well. That season he had 15.1 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.3 rpg for the club in 38 SerieA games. Before Caserta, he played in Puerto Rico and Australia. Ere also has experience from Germany. Ebi Ere played for the Nigerian National Team at the World Championship 2006 in Japan and also at the AfroBasket 2007 and 2009 in Angola and Libya, respectively.

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


Standings - Superior
Superior Standings
 1. Regatas 21-2 
 2. Real Club 21-3 
 3. Escuela Fap 19-5 
 4. El Bosque 16-10 
 5. Inmaculada 14-11 
 6. Centro Naval 11-14 
 7. Ejercito 10-15 
 8. San Augustin 8-19 
 9. San Marcos 3-22 
 10. Universitario 1-23 


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


Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference
PBA Standings
 1. Talk N Text 9-4 
 2. Petron Blaze 8-5 
 3. Alaska Aces 8-5 
 4. Ginebra Kings 8-5 
 5. Rain or Shine 6-7 
 6. B-Meg Llam. 5-8 
 7. Powerade T. 4-4 
 8. Meralco Bolts 3-5 
 9. Air21 Express 0-8 


PBA Governor's Cup Finals: Petron mow down TNT, Finals series tied at 2-2 - by Eurobasket News
Petron banked on a scorching third quarter run to mow down Talk 'N Text, 105-83, and even the PBA Governor's Cup Finals in Sunday night's Game 4 at the Araneta Coliseum.

Import Anthony Grundy (189-G-79, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) teamed up with Arwind Santos (193-F-81), Dennis Miranda (180-G-82) and Alex Cabagnot (183-G-82, college: Hawaii-Hilo) during that mighty offensive blast by the Boosters, when they outscored the Tropang Texters in that stretch, 33-12.

By the time they were through with the run, Petron's slim three-point lead at the break had suddenly ballooned to 86-62 entering the final 12 minutes of play.

Santos, who earlier lost to Jimmy Alapag in the fight for the league's Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, was back in his usual self for the Boosters after held to just three points in Game 3. The lanky power forward finished with 20 points on 9-of-14 shooting from the field and grabbed 14 rebounds.

Miranda played his best game of the best-of-seven series with 19 (7-of-14), while Grundy and Cabagnot had 16 each. Grundy accounted for 11 points when the Boosters ripped the game apart in the third period.

The title series is now tied at 2-game apiece, with the crucial Game 5 set on Wednesday also at the Big Dome.

Turnovers did the Tropang Texters as they committed 18 to the 13 of the Boosters, although seven of those came at a time when Petron was in the midst of its huge second half run.

Jason Castro (173-G-86) showed the way for Talk 'N Text with 17 points, Ryan Reyes (188-G-83, college: Cerritos JC) with 16 and import Scottie Grundy 12.

But a big letdown was Alapag, the season MVP, who was held to only two points in the first three quarters of play. The Talk 'N Text starting point guard finished with eight. -- OMG, GMA News


The scores:

PETRON 105 - Santos 20, Miranda 19, Grundy 16, Cabagnot 16, Ildefonso 10, Guevarra 6, Duncil 5, Pennisi 5, Hubalde 4, Salvacion 4.

TALK N' TEXT 83 - Castro 17, Reyes 16, Reynolds 12, Carey 9, De Ocampo 8, Alapag 8, Williams 7, Fonacier 5, Aban 1, Dillinger 0, Peek 0.

Quarters: 23-29, 53-50, 86-62, 105-83

Courtesy of www.pba-online.net



Alapag bags MVP honors, Al-Hussaini is Rookie of the Year - by Eurobasket News
One of the smallest men in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) proved to be the biggest for this season.

Talk 'N Text playmaker Jimmy Alapag (178-G-77, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) had his crowning glory Sunday night when he was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of Asia's pioneering pro league during the annual Leo Awards at the Araneta Coliseum, besting Petron's Arwind Santos and the popular Mark Caguioa of Barangay Ginebra.

Considered as the heart-and-soul of the Tropang Texters, Alapag played a key role in getting the telecommunication franchise to where it is at the moment a title removed from completing a historic Grand Slam.

And while his team may be on track to achieving the rare honor, Alapag already basked in the glory ahead of the rest of the Tropang Texters.

Only the fifth point guard to win the MVP trophy, Alapag said he never once thought of bagging the award ever since he learned the rudiments of the sport.

'Ever since I've been playing basketball, I've never gone before the start of the season working hard to win an MVP,' said the player known as the 'Mighty Mouse'. 'It's always about winning championships. If I ever was blessed, it was a huge honor.

'It's been a special year. The journey isn't quite done yet.'

Commissioner Chito Salud and chairman Rene Pardo awarded the MVP trophy to Alapag, who followed Robert Jaworski Sr, Ricky Brown, Johnny Abarrientos and Jay-Jay Helterbrand as only the fifth playmaker to win the award.

The Talk 'N Text veteran offered the award in behalf of his team's coaching staff, teammates, family and wife, actress LJ Moreno.

Alapag compiled 1,888 points to bag the league's highest individual title, winning over Santos, the Best Player of the Governors Cup (1,687) and Caguioa (1,317).

The three of them also comprised the Mythical team together with Alaska's Sonny Thoss and Alapag's Talk 'N Text teammate Kelly Williams.

Another Talk 'N Text stalwart in Jason Castro leads the second Mythical Team, along with teammate Ali Peek, B-Meg's James Yap and Joe Devance, and Jay Washington, the Best Player of the Conference in the Philippine Cup, of Petron.

As expected, Rabeh Al-Hussaini (199-F/C-88) was the hands down choice as the Rookie of the Year.

Santos led the All-Defensive unit along with Marc Pingris of B-Meg and Ryan Reyes of Talk 'N Text. But the selection of Ginebra's Willie Wilson and John Wilson surprised a lot of people as the two beat out perennial All-Defensive members Williams and Thoss.

Meanwhile, Thoss took the Sportsmanship award, while Castro was deservedly named the Most Improved Player. -- OMG, GMA News

Courtesy of www.pba-online.net

2011 Univeriade. Ukraine back to winning ways with rout of Philippines - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine - Philippines 102:46

Ukraine bounced back after the loss to Lithuania in the second round and cruised past Philippines at 2011 World University Games Group C. The victory helped Ukraine to 2-1 record in the standings. Philippines on the other hand suffered the third straight loss. Seven Ukrainian players scored in double figures. Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) stepped up with 18 points and 13 rebounds to lead the effort.
Ukraine earned a 21:13 lead after ten minutes of action. They stormed into the second quarter on an 11:3 run to boost the gap. Ukraine secured a 37:24 lead at the interval. The European team increased the tempo and cleared off to a comfortable 32-point advantage at the final intermission. Ukraine stayed in charge throughout the fourth period posting a well-deserved win at the end. Pavlo Burenko (186-PG-90) tallied 15 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, while Dmytro Khodov (201-F-87) added 12 points for the winners. Kelvin Juliane (173-PG-88) answered with 13 points for Philippines. Francis Luigi Bercede (175-PG-89) chipped in 10 points in the loss.

Ukraine: Maksym Kornienko 18+13 boards, Pavlo Burenko 15, Dmytro Khodov 12
Philippines: Kelvin Juliane 13, Francis Luigi Bercede 10


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


Zastal Zielona Gora add Jeff Foote - by Eurobasket News
Zastal ZG landed Jeff Foote (212-C-88, college: Cornell). The 23-year-old centre started the previous season in Maccabi Tel-Aviv. He was sent to Mellila Baloncesto on loan shortly after the start of the season. Jeff Foote posted 7.7 points, 6.6 boards and 2.0 blocks per game in LEB Gold. It was the first pro season for the centre. Jeff Foote graduated from the Cornell University in 2010. He was named All-Ivy league Defensive Player of the Year in 2010.



Billy White is close to Slask Wroclaw - by Greg
According to polskikosz.pl, 22-year forward Billy White (203-F-89) is close to sign his first professional contract with WKS Slask Wroclaw. He could be the first American player in the roster for the upcoming season.

White has just graduated from San Diego State University. As a sernior he was averaging 10.2ppg (FGP: 56.2%), 4.4rpg, 1.6apg and 1.1spg.

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


2011 Univeriade. Russia bruise Japan - by Eurobasket News
Russia - Japan 91:73

Russia earned the third straight win at the 2011 World University Games. They remained on top of Group C with perfect 3-0 record. Dmitry Golovin (193-G-88) nailed 18 points and pulled down 10 rebounds to lead the charge. Japan fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
Japan managed to post a 27:25 lead at the first break. The teams stayed close early in the second term but Russia capped the half on a 12:4 run to build a 43:35 advantage. Russia maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final break leading by 12 points 68:56. Japan narrowed the gap at just 6-point mark midway through the final stanza but Russia triggered a 17:5 rally to seal the victory. Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) accounted for 13 points, while Ivan Nelyubov (207-C-88) produced 12 points in the win. Takatoshi Furukawa (190-G/F-87) answered with 18 points for Japan. Daisuke Kobayashi (188-G-87) netted 14 points in the loss.

Russia: Dmitry Golovin 18+10 boards, Petr Gubanov 13, Ivan Nelyubov 12
Japan: Takatoshi Furukawa 18, Daisuke Kobayashi 14


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  SERBIA   


2011 Univeriade. Serbia thrash Turkey in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Serbia - Turkey 84:36

Serbia posted a comfortable victory on the fourth day of action at 2011 World University Games in China. They dismantled Turkey to improve at 2-1 record in Group B. Stefan Bircevic (209-F/C-89) tallied 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort. Turkey fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
Serbia limited their opponents to 8 points in the opening period to post an 18-point lead. Serbia started the second frame on a 9:1 run to enlarge the advantage. They ensured a 45:14 halftime lead. Turkey struggled to recover in the second half. Serbia eased to a 63:29 lead at the final break and coasted to the victory at the end. Nikola Dragovic (206-F-87, college: UCLA) and Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88, agency: Interperformances) netted 14 points apiece in the winning case. Bora Pacun (210-F-87) answered with 9 points for Turkey. Ibrahim Yildirim (190-G-90) and Yigitcan Turna (187-PG-87) had 8 points apiece in the loss.

Serbia: Stefan Bircevic 16+11 boards, Nikola Dragovic 14, Mladen Jeremic 14
Turkey: Bora Pacun 9, Ibrahim Yildirim 8, Yigitcan Turna 8


Crvena Zvezda Beograd (former FMP Zeleznik) keeps Mile Ilic - by Eurobasket News
Mile Ilic (215-C-84, agency: Beo Basket) signed a one-year deal with Crvena Zvezda Beograd. That it actually his former team FMP Zeleznik, which will continue with the new name and at the same time they got all of Crvena Zvezda players. Crvena Zvezda will be compensated for giving their name and all the players to FMP, actually to new club Crvena Zvezda Beograd. Mile Ilic appeared 42 times with FMP in Serbian league 2010/11 averaging 10.7 points, 5 rebounds and 1.2 blocks. Season 2010/11, Mile Ilic spent with Metalac Valjevo. He joined them in March for the Superleague averaging 10.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1 block in 16 games. Before Metalac, he spent one year with Cajasol Seville. Ilic also has experience from Bilbao and D-Legaue team Colorado 14ers. In 2006/07 season Ilic appeared five times in NBA with the New Jersey Nets, but he had very limited playing time. He played for FMP couple of years in the past. Mile Ilic participated at the Serbian NT camp, but he was one of the first cuts this summer.

Croatia prevail against Serbia at London Invitational Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Croatia - Serbia 83:71

Croatia opened London Invitational Tournament with victory. They held off Serbia behind 17 points from Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85). Croatia will face Great Britain, while Serbia will play against China tomorrow.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Croatia snatched a narrow 20:19 lead after ten minutes. Croatia stretched the lead in the second term. They fired 24 points to post a 44:36 halftime advantage. Croatia kept their opponents at bay throughout the third term. They ensured a 10-point lead into the fourth period. Croatia outscored Serbia in the fourth quarter and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) notched 12 points, while Ante Tomic (217-C-87) added 11 points for the winners. Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) replied with 18 points, 5 boards and 4 assists for Serbia. Nenad Krstic (214-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) and Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) accounted for 10 points each in the loss.

Croatia: Krunoslav Simon 17, Dontaye Draper 12, Ante Tomic 11
Serbia: Milos Teodosic 18, Nenad Krstic 10, Milan Macvan 10


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  SLOVENIA   


Olimpija brings back Varda - by Zeljko Zule
Union Olimpija brought a familiar face back and announced a new player with the signing of Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79, agency: Alti Sport) who played zhe 2002-03 season with the club. He arrives from Asseco Prokom where he averaged 13.3 point and 4.5 rebounds in Euroleague last season, 9.8 points, 5.4 boards and 1.9 steals per game in Polish League and 7.7 points and 4.0 rebounds in VTB League per appearance.

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  SPAIN   


Alvaro Munoz joins Baloncesto Fuenlabrada - by Eurobasket News
Alvaro Munoz (195-F-90) joins Baloncesto Fuenlabrada where he also played for a bit last season. The Spanish Forward will arrive from CB Illescas Urban CLM.
In 2008-2009 he started for Zarzuela Maristas Boecillo (EBA, starting five) and in 27 games averaged 10.4ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 50.0%, 3FGP: 39.0%, FT: 74.0%. In 2009-2010 moved to CB Illescas Urban CLM (LEB Silver, starting five) and in 28 games averaged 6.1ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 68.6%. The last season he started for CB Illescas Urban CLM (LEB Silver, starting five) showing 12.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 39.1%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 66.0%. He recorded 23 points twice during the last season. Alvaro however also played also at Baloncesto Fuenlabrada (ACB): 6 games: 3.8ppg, 1.0rpg where he will head now.
Last year Alvaro Munoz was a Spanish U20 National Team member. At the European Championships U20 in Croatia -10 Spain took Bronze. After 9 games he averaged 9.6ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 81.8%.


Spain cruise past Bulgaria in Guadalajara - by Eurobasket News
Spain NT-Bulgaria NT 96:59

Spain cruise past Bulgaria in Guadalajara in the friendly encounter to prepare better for Eurobasket 2011. The hosts easily won another friendly game winning 96:59.
It was a quick start for the home side that went on a lead from the very beginning. Spain had 16:7 midway through the quarter and reached 27:10 at the end of the first period. Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky) and his team however opened the second frame with 7-2 run, while the board showed 32:19 later in the quarter. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) took the control for his side and brought 55:27 at the halftime scoring 5 three-pointers at that time. The third quarter was the most productive for Bulgaria that played tough. Spain managed to add 17-16 in the third frame for 72:43. Another 24-16 in the last quarter brought more comfortable victory for the favorites.
Juan Carlos Navarro stepped up with 19 points, while Sergio Llull (190-PG-87) notched 17. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) scored 15, whilst Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) delivered 8. Filip Videnov replied with 15 points in defeat and Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) netted 9.

Spain NT: Juan Carlos Navarro 19, Sergio Llull 17, Pau Gasol 15, Felipe Reyes 8
Bulgaria NT: Filip Videnov 15, Earl Rowland 9


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  SWITZERLAND   


Ronald Yates joins Benetton Fribourg - by Eurobasket News
Benetton Fribourg have ensured the services of Ronald Yates (201-F-83, college: St.Peter's) for the next season. The 28-year-old forward started the previous season with Starwings. He averaged 18.6 points, 10.0 boards, 2.4 assists and 1.3 steals per game in LNA. In December Ronald Yates moved to BBC Monthey. His stats read 17.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.1 steals per appearance with the team. Eurobasket.com named Ronald Yates into All-Swiss LNA 2nd Team. Ronald Yates is not new to Benetton Fribourg. He played two games for the team at the start of 2009/10 season. The forward later joined Boulogne in France. Ronald Yates also had stints in Finland, Puerto Rico and Sweden.


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  TURKEY   


2011 Univeriade. Serbia thrash Turkey in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Serbia - Turkey 84:36

Serbia posted a comfortable victory on the fourth day of action at 2011 World University Games in China. They dismantled Turkey to improve at 2-1 record in Group B. Stefan Bircevic (209-F/C-89) tallied 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort. Turkey fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
Serbia limited their opponents to 8 points in the opening period to post an 18-point lead. Serbia started the second frame on a 9:1 run to enlarge the advantage. They ensured a 45:14 halftime lead. Turkey struggled to recover in the second half. Serbia eased to a 63:29 lead at the final break and coasted to the victory at the end. Nikola Dragovic (206-F-87, college: UCLA) and Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88, agency: Interperformances) netted 14 points apiece in the winning case. Bora Pacun (210-F-87) answered with 9 points for Turkey. Ibrahim Yildirim (190-G-90) and Yigitcan Turna (187-PG-87) had 8 points apiece in the loss.

Serbia: Stefan Bircevic 16+11 boards, Nikola Dragovic 14, Mladen Jeremic 14
Turkey: Bora Pacun 9, Ibrahim Yildirim 8, Yigitcan Turna 8


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  UKRAINE   


2011 Univeriade. Ukraine back to winning ways with rout of Philippines - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine - Philippines 102:46

Ukraine bounced back after the loss to Lithuania in the second round and cruised past Philippines at 2011 World University Games Group C. The victory helped Ukraine to 2-1 record in the standings. Philippines on the other hand suffered the third straight loss. Seven Ukrainian players scored in double figures. Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) stepped up with 18 points and 13 rebounds to lead the effort.
Ukraine earned a 21:13 lead after ten minutes of action. They stormed into the second quarter on an 11:3 run to boost the gap. Ukraine secured a 37:24 lead at the interval. The European team increased the tempo and cleared off to a comfortable 32-point advantage at the final intermission. Ukraine stayed in charge throughout the fourth period posting a well-deserved win at the end. Pavlo Burenko (186-PG-90) tallied 15 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, while Dmytro Khodov (201-F-87) added 12 points for the winners. Kelvin Juliane (173-PG-88) answered with 13 points for Philippines. Francis Luigi Bercede (175-PG-89) chipped in 10 points in the loss.

Ukraine: Maksym Kornienko 18+13 boards, Pavlo Burenko 15, Dmytro Khodov 12
Philippines: Kelvin Juliane 13, Francis Luigi Bercede 10


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


Janusauskas Makes It Six - by Paul Nilsen
The UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders have announced the signing of 7'0' Lithuanian centre Tomas Janusauskas (213-C-85, agency: Interperformances). He played last season for the Guildford Heat in the BBL, giving the Heat some valuable contributions over the course of the year.

He started playing in the BBL for London Capital and made a huge impact on the league averaging 18.4 points and 9.8 rebounds (2nd in the league). He then went to Guildford last season, where he averaged 5.3 points and 3.5 rebounds per game off the bench. He was named to the Eurobasket All Bosman team in 2010. Against Leicester last season, he had 14 points and 9 rebounds and followed that with an 11 point, 9 rebound performance against Newcastle.

Raiders Coach Gavin Love was pleased to have secured Janusauskas' signature. 'He's a very unique player in the BBL. At 7'0' he is very agile and athletic with a nice shooting touch, and I think he has more of a potential to be an impact player in the league.'

Janusauskas himself is looking forward to the challenge. 'Plymouth is great organisation. This is an exciting and great opportunity for me. I want this to be a successful season, to have a solid year and win a trophy with Plymouth.'

Janusauskas is the Raiders' sixth signing so far. Loves hopes to announce more names in the next couple of weeks. 'We now have all of our 2 US import players signed, and we're still working hard to get another European player or two as well.'


Sturt A Lion - by Paul Nilsen
6'10' forward, Adrien Sturt (209-C-86) has become Coach Mike New's fourth addition to his Prestige Homes MK Lions roster ahead of the 2011/12 season.

The GB U23 International will enter his second BBL season after Lions plucked him from Essex Pirates.

Sturt, 24, is a graduate of Snow University in the USA with whom he won the SWAC Conference Championships in 2007. Born in Adelaide Australia, Sturt's roots are in the UK hence his qualification to play with the GB U23's last summer. In the BBL with the Pirates, Sturt averaged 11 points and 6 rebounds per game, highly commendable for the lowest offensive team in the BBL, but coach Mike New saw many features in the young man's game, especially his season high 28 points against the Cheshire Jets and snaring 12 rebounds on two occasions.

With his experience in the US, the athletic forward also won ABA Championships in Australia in 2008 as well as the Australian NBL Championship in 2009 with the Melbourne Tigers.

Lions' Head Coach Mike New commented, 'I am very excited to have Adrien, he was highly sought after and with his size, versatility and athleticism it's no wonder why. Adrien caused match-up problems around the league last season and with better talent around him he should excel even more. He will fit into our squad with his rebounding ability, he is able to stroke the 3 pointer and he averaged more than 1 block per game to go along with his double digit scoring. He will fit into what we are doing nicely'.

Showing a great deal of excitement was Lions boss, Vince Macaulay who added 'We pencilled Adrien in even before the season ended last term. He is so versatile for a big man, he runs the floor extremely well and has a deadly eye from the three point line, we had a chance to see him numerous times and his attitude in a tough situation was exemplary, I think he will make a great Lion.'

Sturt joins a scintillating line up of Nuno Pedroso, Stefan Gill and Daniel Northern so far on the roster with more to be added very soon.


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  WORLD UNIVERSITY GAMES   


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Germany3-0
2. Brazil3-0
3. China1-2
4. Czech Rep.1-2
5. Romania1-2
6. United Ara.0-3
Group B
1. Canada2-0
2. Serbia2-1
3. Australia1-1
4. Turkey1-2
5. Hong Kong0-2
Group C
1. Lithuania3-0
2. Russia3-0
3. Ukraine2-1
4. Japan1-2
5. N.Zealand0-3
6. Philippine.0-3
Group D
1. USA3-0
2. Mexico2-1
3. Finland2-1
4. Israel1-2
5. S.Korea1-2
6. Hungary0-3


Results and Stats from Day 4 in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Group B
Australia - Hong Kong 103-51
Australia registered the first win at 2011 World University Games in Shenzhen. The Aussies rallied past Hong Kong for 1-1 record in Group B. Ryan Broekhoff (198-F/G-90) and Benjamin Dowdell (200-F-88) knocked down 19 points each to lead the winners. Hong Kong fell at 0-2 record after the loss. Australia stunned their opponents in the opening quarter. They exploded with 29 points to take an 18-point lead into the second frame. Australia stayed on fire in the second stanza. They recorded a massive 60:26 halftime advantage. The gap grew at 50-point mark in the third frame and Australia did not look back en route to the victory then. Corey Maynard (190-G-91) nailed 15 points, while Matthew Hodgson (211-C-91) and Cameron Gliddon (196-G/F-89, college: Concordia Irvine) had 10 points each in the win. Lee Ki (177-PG-87) answered with 14 points for Hong Kong. Chan Yik Lun (190-G-87) posted 11 points in the loss.

Serbia - Turkey 84-36
Serbia posted a comfortable victory on the fourth day of action at 2011 World University Games in China. They dismantled Turkey to improve at 2-1 record in Group B. Stefan Bircevic (209-F/C-89) tallied 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort. Turkey fell at 1-2 record after the loss. Serbia limited their opponents to 8 points in the opening period to post an 18-point lead. Serbia started the second frame on a 9:1 run to enlarge the advantage. They ensured a 45:14 halftime lead. Turkey struggled to recover in the second half. Serbia eased to a 63:29 lead at the final break and coasted to the victory at the end. Nikola Dragovic (206-F-87, college: UCLA) and Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88, agency: Interperformances) netted 14 points apiece in the winning case. Bora Pacun (210-F-87) answered with 9 points for Turkey. Ibrahim Yildirim (190-G-90) and Yigitcan Turna (187-PG-87) had 8 points apiece in the loss.

Group C
New Zealand - Lithuania 79-88
Lithuania registered the third straight win at 2011 World University Games. They overcame New Zealand to stay perfect 3-0 on top of Group C. Marius Valukonis (198-F-88) stepped up with 27 points and 9 rebounds to pace the Baltic team. Lithuania jumped to an early lead 15:10 but the Kiwis managed to bounce back. They stormed to a 25:17 advantage at the first break. New Zealand stretched the margin in the second quarter. They enjoyed a 14-point advantage before Lithuania cut it back to 11 points at halftime 35:46. New Zealand stayed in charge throughout the third frame. They entered the final stanza up by 10 points 63:53. New Zealand still led by 7 points with five minutes left in regulation. However Lithuania burst out with a 20:4 run late in the game to snatch a difficult victory at the end. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-PG-87) accounted for 16 points, while Gediminas Orelikas (200-G/F-90) added 13 points in the win. Dion Prewster (195-G/F-91, college: Stephen F. Austin) replied with 19 points for the Kiwis. Joshua Bloxham (192-G-90) netted 14 points in defeat.

Philippines - Ukraine 46-102
Ukraine bounced back after the loss to Lithuania in the second round and cruised past Philippines at 2011 World University Games Group C. The victory helped Ukraine to 2-1 record in the standings. Philippines on the other hand suffered the third straight loss. Seven Ukrainian players scored in double figures. Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) stepped up with 18 points and 13 rebounds to lead the effort. Ukraine earned a 21:13 lead after ten minutes of action. They stormed into the second quarter on an 11:3 run to boost the gap. Ukraine secured a 37:24 lead at the interval. The European team increased the tempo and cleared off to a comfortable 32-point advantage at the final intermission. Ukraine stayed in charge throughout the fourth period posting a well-deserved win at the end. Pavlo Burenko (186-PG-90) tallied 15 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, while Dmytro Khodov (201-F-87) added 12 points for the winners. Kelvin Juliane (173-PG-88) answered with 13 points for Philippines. Francis Luigi Bercede (175-PG-89) chipped in 10 points in the loss.

Russia - Japan 91-73
Russia earned the third straight win at the 2011 World University Games. They remained on top of Group C with perfect 3-0 record. Dmitry Golovin (193-G-88) nailed 18 points and pulled down 10 rebounds to lead the charge. Japan fell at 1-2 record after the loss. Japan managed to post a 27:25 lead at the first break. The teams stayed close early in the second term but Russia capped the half on a 12:4 run to build a 43:35 advantage. Russia maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final break leading by 12 points 68:56. Japan narrowed the gap at just 6-point mark midway through the final stanza but Russia triggered a 17:5 rally to seal the victory. Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) accounted for 13 points, while Ivan Nelyubov (207-C-88) produced 12 points in the win. Takatoshi Furukawa (190-G/F-87) answered with 18 points for Japan. Daisuke Kobayashi (188-G-87) netted 14 points in the loss.





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Women News

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


2011 Universiade. Australia stay perfect with win over Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Czech Republic 85:68

Australia posted the third straight win at World University Games. They held off Czech Republic to clinch top spot in Group D. Abby Bishop (189-C-88) delivered 25 points and 9 rebounds to pace the winners. Czech Republic fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
Australia knocked down 25 points in the opening term to secure an 8-point lead. The Aussies stretched the margin in the second quarter. They registered a 51:33 halftime advantage. Czech Republic opened the second half on a 9:2 run to narrow the deficit. The European side narrowed the gap to 8 points at the final break 53:61. But Australia quickly cleared off to a double-digit advantage in the fourth frame and never looked back en route to the victory. Katie Rae Ebzery (177-G-90) and Elyse Penaluna (193-C-88) finished with 11 points apiece in the win. Romana Hejdova (183-F-88) responded with 19 points and 11 rebounds for Czech Republic. Kamila Stepanova (192-C-88) netted 15 points in the loss.

Australia: Abby Bishop 25, Katie Rae Ebzery 11, Elyse Penaluna 11
Czech Republic: Romana Hejdova 19+11 boards, Kamila Stepanova 15


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  BELGIUM - Women  


U16 Belgium beats U16 Greece 55-37 in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 GREECE - U16 BELGIUM 37-55

Both teams had 1-1 record in Group E before this meeting. Belgium jumped to third place in this pool thanks to 55-37 victory yesterday. On the other side, Greece dropped to fourth place with 1-2. Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-G/F-95) was the leading player in victory with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Their second scorer was An-Katrien Nauwelaers (178-F-95) with 8 points and she grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. In Greece, Eleftheria Kalomitsini (95) top-scored with 10 points. Dimitra Tsavou (182-F-96) collected 9 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 8-14, 8-12, 6-23, 15-6. Today, Belgium will meet Russia. Greece will play against Sweden.

Greece: Eleftheria Kalomitsini 10, Dimitra Tsavou 9+10 boards
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 16+5 boards, An-Katrien Nauwelaers 8+5 boards

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  BRAZIL - Women  


2011 Universiade. Brazil and Slovakia opened Day 3 in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Slovakia-Brazil 44:65

Brazil and Slovakia opened Day 3 in Shenzhen at the World University Games. The Latin American team celebrated the second 65:44 win for 2-1 record in the group. Slovakia finished it with 0-3 record on the last spot.
Brazil needed a win for the Quarterfinal hope and will need USA to beat United Kingdom. Brazil started with 8:4 and had 14:12 at the end of the first frame. They held the opponents in the start of the second quarter and improved to 28:22 at the halftime. The lead continued to grow as the Latin American squad won the third and the last stanzas. After 21-15 in the third the board showed 49:37 and then Brazil added 16-7 in the last stanza.
Leila Zabani (180-G/F-91) stepped up with 13 points for the winners and Nadia Calhado (196-C-89) collected 12 points and 14 rebounds. Patricia Ribeiro (178-G/F-90) and Camila Lacerda (168-G/F-89) followed them with 8 points apiece. Diana Benuskova (167-PG-89) and Katarina Pindrochova (183-F-88) delivered 9 pojnts each in the losing effort.

Slovakia: Diana Benuskova 9+10 steals, Katarina Pindrochova 9
Brazil: Leila Zabani 13, Nadia Calhado 12+14 rebs, Patricia Ribeiro 8, Camila Lacerda 8


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  BULGARIA - Women  


U16 Germany keeps winning in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: BULGARIA - GERMANY 62-78

Germany jumped to 3-0 in Qualifying Group F and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. They outplayed Bulgaria yesterday 78-62. Bulgarians dropped to 0-3 after this game, but still have some chances to reach the next stage. Noemie Rouault (180-F-95) stepped up for the winners with 28 points and 17 rebounds (valuation 35!!). Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) also was amazing with 21 points, 9 rebs and 8 assists. Alina Hartmann (182-F-95) helped with 10 points and 7 boards. In the loosing squad, Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) was way better than the others with 25 points and 7 rebounds. Maria Kamburova (182-F-96) and Kalina Aksentieva (182-F-95) netted 8 points each. Quarters: 20-23, 17-14, 7-22, 18-19. Today, Germany will meet Romania. Bulgaria will play against also winless Switzerland.

Bulgaria: Borislava Hristova 25+7 boards, Maria Kamburova 8, Kalina Aksentieva 8
Germany: Noemie Rouault 28+17 boards, Emma lina Stach 21+9 boards+8 as, Alina Hartmann 10+7 boards

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  CHINA - Women  


2011 Universiade. Taiwan surprise China, stay undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Taiwan - China 77:70

Taiwan ensured the third straight win at 2011 World University Games. They shot down hosting China to clinch 3-0 record on top of Group A. Taiwan will now face Brazil in the quarterfinals on Thursday. China fell at 1-2 record in the third position in the ladder. Huang Fan-Shan (173-G-87) scored 19 points and grabbed 6 boards to lead the effort.
Taiwan surged ahead from the starting moments. They established a 26:12 lead at the first break. China cut the deficit but still trailed by as many as 8 points at halftime 36:44. The hosts narrowed the deficit at 5-point mark midway through the third frame but Taiwan secured an 8-point cushion heading into the fourth quarter. The visitors enlarged the gap to 11 points in the final frame and held on to seal the win at the end. Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) notched 18 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for Taiwan. Huang Fan-Shan YingLi (170-G-89) had 11 points in the win. Wu Siyang (182-G/F-91) answered with 19 points for China. Shao Ting (183-F-89) posted 17 points and 14 rebounds in the loss.

Taiwan: Huang Fan-Shan 19, Chen Yu-Chun 18, Huang Fan-Shan YingLi 11
China: Wu Siyang 19, Shao Ting 17+14 boards


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  CROATIA - Women  


U16 Croatia destroys U16 Finland 76-47 - by Eurobasket News
U16 CROATIA - U16 FINLAND 76-47

Croatia blasted Finland in their first game in Group G. It was a 76-47 victory for Croatia, who made a first step forward to survival in Division A. Finland has 0-1 now. Dana Saric (174-F-95) led Croatia with 18 points and 7 rebounds yesterday. Inja Butina (170-PG-95) had 14 points, 5 boards and 5 assists, while Ivana Matic (181-F-95) added 13 pts. In defeat, Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) and Jenni Rantanen (171-G-95) scored 10 points each. They did not have any other player with double-digits. Quarters: 14-14, 27-13, 18-7, 17-13. Croatia will meet Serbia today. Finland will take on Poland.

Croatia: Dana Saric 18+7 boards, Inja Butina 14+5 boards+5 as, Ivana Matic 13
Finland: Anni Jamsa 10, Jenni Rantanen 10

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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


U16 Sweden jumps to 3-0 in Qualifying Group E - by Eurobasket News
U16 CZECH REPUBLIC - U16 SWEDEN 50-53

Sweden already secured a ticket for the Quarterfinals in Cagliari. They grabbed 53-50 win against Czech Republic for perfect 3-0 record in Qualifying Group E. On the other side, Czech Republic dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Gabriella Hanson (180-G-95) led the winners with double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds. Emma Eriksson (164-PG-95) had 14 pts and Regan Magarity (187-F-96) added 10 points, plus 15 boards. In the loosing squad, Sarah Berankova (174-PG-96) delivered 13 points. Their second best player was Kamila Hoskova (174-F-95) with 9 pts and 8 rebs. Quarters: 16-10, 10-18, 14-11, 10-14. Sweden will meet Greece today. Czech Republic will take on also winless Slovakia.

Czech Republic: Sarah Berankova 13, Kamila Hoskova 9+8 boards
Sweden: Gabriella Hanson 15+13 boards, Emma Eriksson 14, Regan Magarity 10+15 boards

2011 Universiade. Australia stay perfect with win over Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Czech Republic 85:68

Australia posted the third straight win at World University Games. They held off Czech Republic to clinch top spot in Group D. Abby Bishop (189-C-88) delivered 25 points and 9 rebounds to pace the winners. Czech Republic fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
Australia knocked down 25 points in the opening term to secure an 8-point lead. The Aussies stretched the margin in the second quarter. They registered a 51:33 halftime advantage. Czech Republic opened the second half on a 9:2 run to narrow the deficit. The European side narrowed the gap to 8 points at the final break 53:61. But Australia quickly cleared off to a double-digit advantage in the fourth frame and never looked back en route to the victory. Katie Rae Ebzery (177-G-90) and Elyse Penaluna (193-C-88) finished with 11 points apiece in the win. Romana Hejdova (183-F-88) responded with 19 points and 11 rebounds for Czech Republic. Kamila Stepanova (192-C-88) netted 15 points in the loss.

Australia: Abby Bishop 25, Katie Rae Ebzery 11, Elyse Penaluna 11
Czech Republic: Romana Hejdova 19+11 boards, Kamila Stepanova 15


*****************************************************
  DENMARK - Women  


U16 Denmark extends winning streak in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: DENMARK - ROMANIA 61-56

Both teams had 1-1 record in Qualifying Group F before this meeting. Denmark outplayed the host of this event 61-56 jumping to third place 2-1 score. Romania dropped to fourth position. Kia Fisker (185-F/C-95) (6 rebs) and Frederikke Mollerup (177-G-95) led the winners with 15 points each. Sofie Preetzmann (180-G-95) had 12 points and 8 rebounds. In defeat, Simina Avram (190-C-95) came up with double-double of 22 points and 12 rebs. The second scorer in Romania was Cristina Gavrila (172-G-95) with 11 points. Quarters: 9-13, 10-14, 19-12, 23-17. Denmark will meet Lithuania today. Romania will take on Germany.

Denmark: Kia Fisker 15+6 boards, Frederikke Mollerup 15, Sofie Preetzmann 12+8 boards
Romania: Simina Avram 22+12 boards, Cristina Gavrila 11

*****************************************************
  ESTONIA - Women  


U16 Portugal jumps to 3-0 in Group E in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: ESTONIA - PORTUGAL 31-73

Portugal jumped to 3-0 in Qualifying Group E. They blasted Estonia 73-31 and already secured a spot for the Quarterfinals in Arad. On the other side, Estonia dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) led the winners with 17 points. Sofia Pinheiro (171-G-95) and Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) added 11 and 10 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Tatjana Razguliajeva (173-G-96) top-scored with just 7 points. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) stopped to 6 points and 8 rebounds. Quarters: 8-20, 4-11, 13-27, 6-15. In the next game Portugal will meet United Kingdom. Estonia will play against Ukraine.

Estonia: Tatjana Razguliajeva 7, Trine Kasemagi 6+8 boards
Portugal: Laura Ferreira 17, Sofia Pinheiro 11, Joana Soeiro 10

*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16 - Women  


Division B: Beginning of Qualifying Round in Arad - by Eurobasket News
Group E
Estonia - Portugal 31-73
Portugal jumped to 3-0 in Qualifying Group E. They blasted Estonia 73-31 and already secured a spot for the Quarterfinals in Arad. On the other side, Estonia dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) led the winners with 17 points. Sofia Pinheiro (171-G-95) and Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) added 11 and 10 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Tatjana Razguliajeva (173-G-96) top-scored with just 7 points. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) stopped to 6 points and 8 rebounds. Quarters: 8-20, 4-11, 13-27, 6-15. In the next game Portugal will meet United Kingdom. Estonia will play against Ukraine.

United Kingdom - Latvia 61-55
United Kingdom celebrated valuable 61-55 win against Latvia yesterday. Thanks to this victory UK jumped to second place in Qualifying Group E with 2-1 record. On the other side, Latvia dropped to fourth place with 1-2. Janice Monakana (183-F-95) shined for the winners with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Cheridene Green (187-C-95) had 13 points and 10 boards, while Shequila Joseph (189-F-95) helped her team with 11 pts. In Latvia, Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) top-scored with 16 points. Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) followed her with 2 points less. Quarters: 19-10, 15-13, 7-13, 20-19. In the next game UK will play against Portugal. Latvia will take on Slovenia.

Ukraine - Slovenia 63-37
Ukraine destroyed Slovenia 63-37 for the first victory in Qualifying Group E in Arad. Ukraine has 1-2 record now and a chance to reach the Quarterfinals. Slovenia faced with the first loss and they have 2-1 score now. Oksana Batrakova (186-C-95) exploded for Ukraine with 27 points and 14 rebounds. She reached valuation 35 and was the MVP of this meeting. Tetyana Antonyuk (184-C-95) helped Ukraine with 8 points and 22 rebounds. In defeat, Zala Lesek (187-F-97) was the best scorer with only 6 points. Quarters: 17-9, 18-9, 10-9, 18-10. Today, Ukraine will play against Estonia. Slovenia will take on Latvia.
Group F
Denmark - Romania 61-56
Both teams had 1-1 record in Qualifying Group F before this meeting. Denmark outplayed the host of this event 61-56 jumping to third place 2-1 score. Romania dropped to fourth position. Kia Fisker (185-F/C-95) (6 rebs) and Frederikke Mollerup (177-G-95) led the winners with 15 points each. Sofie Preetzmann (180-G-95) had 12 points and 8 rebounds. In defeat, Simina Avram (190-C-95) came up with double-double of 22 points and 12 rebs. The second scorer in Romania was Cristina Gavrila (172-G-95) with 11 points. Quarters: 9-13, 10-14, 19-12, 23-17. Denmark will meet Lithuania today. Romania will take on Germany.

Bulgaria - Germany 62-78
Germany jumped to 3-0 in Qualifying Group F and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. They outplayed Bulgaria yesterday 78-62. Bulgarians dropped to 0-3 after this game, but still have some chances to reach the next stage. Noemie Rouault (180-F-95) stepped up for the winners with 28 points and 17 rebounds (valuation 35!!). Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) also was amazing with 21 points, 9 rebs and 8 assists. Alina Hartmann (182-F-95) helped with 10 points and 7 boards. In the loosing squad, Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) was way better than the others with 25 points and 7 rebounds. Maria Kamburova (182-F-96) and Kalina Aksentieva (182-F-95) netted 8 points each. Quarters: 20-23, 17-14, 7-22, 18-19. Today, Germany will meet Romania. Bulgaria will play against also winless Switzerland.

Switzerland - Lithuania 52-84
Lithuania already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals in Arad. They cruised past Switzerland yesterday 84-52 for perfect 3-0 record in Qualifying Group F. On the other side, Switzerland stays winless (0-3). Justina Kraujunaite (174-F-95) came up with 19 points for Lithuania and Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) added 15 points, plus 5 assists. Roberta Mizgeryte (188-F-95) followed them with 10 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Dijana Milenkovic (180-F-96) delivered 12 points. Their second scorer was Miryam Sohm (175-F-95) with 11 points and 8 rebs. Quarters: 11-23, 15-20, 13-19, 13-22. Today Lithuania will meet Denmark. Switzerland will play against Bulgaria.

Group G
Luxembourg - Israel 62-97
Israel made a first step forward to survival in Division A. They handed 97-62 loss to Luxembourg for 1-0 record in Group G. Luxembourg has 0-1 now. Ofir Banet (165-PG-96) led the winners with 24 points yesterday. Noa Zelivanski (168-PG-96) and Shahd Abboud (173-F-95) delivered 13 and 12 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Alexa Sanelli (174-F-95) was better than the others with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Charlie Bidinger (167-G-95) followed her with 10 pts. Quarters: 16-21, 13-26, 15-29, 18-21. Israel will play against Ireland today. Luxembourg has a day-off.

Division A, Qualifying Round: First games in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
Group E
Greece - Belgium 37-55
Both teams had 1-1 record in Group E before this meeting. Belgium jumped to third place in this pool thanks to 55-37 victory yesterday. On the other side, Greece dropped to fourth place with 1-2. Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-G/F-95) was the leading player in victory with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Their second scorer was An-Katrien Nauwelaers (178-F-95) with 8 points and she grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. In Greece, Eleftheria Kalomitsini (95) top-scored with 10 points. Dimitra Tsavou (182-F-96) collected 9 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 8-14, 8-12, 6-23, 15-6. Today, Belgium will meet Russia. Greece will play against Sweden.

Czech Republic - Sweden 50-53
Sweden already secured a ticket for the Quarterfinals in Cagliari. They grabbed 53-50 win against Czech Republic for perfect 3-0 record in Qualifying Group E. On the other side, Czech Republic dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Gabriella Hanson (180-G-95) (180-G-95) led the winners with double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds. Emma Eriksson (164-PG-95) had 14 pts and Regan Magarity (187-F-96) added 10 points, plus 15 boards. In the loosing squad, Sarah Berankova (174-PG-96) delivered 13 points. Their second best player was Kamila Hoskova (174-F-95) with 9 pts and 8 rebs. Quarters: 16-10, 10-18, 14-11, 10-14. Sweden will meet Greece today. Czech Republic will take on also winless Slovakia.

Russia - Slovakia 60-53
Russia jumped to 3-0 in Qualifying Group E in Miskolc. They handed 60-53 loss to Slovakia and already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals. On the other side Slovakia dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Ekaterina Ilinova (178-G) led the winners with 15 points. Yuliya Chaykovskaya (173-G-95) scored 12 points, while Ekaterina Tsukanova (183-F-95) added 11 pts and 9 boards. In the loosing squad, Nikola Dudasova (169-PG-95) collected 14 points and 6 boards. Terezia Palenikova (170-PG-95) and Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) (10 rebs) scored 13 and 10 points respectively. Quarters: 13-13, 17-13, 10-18, 20-9. In the next game Russia will meet Russia will meet Belgium. Slovakia will take on Czech Republic.

Group F
Holland - Spain 46-77
Spain registered another win in Cagliari. This time they blasted Holland 77-46 for perfect 3-0 in Qualifying Group F. At the same time, Holland dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Maria Arrojo (186-F-85) led Spain with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Carolina Del Santo (182-C-95) had 16 points and 6 boards, while Marina Lizarazu (172-F-95) had 11 points and 5 assists. In defeat, Klaziena Guijt (173-G-95) top-scored with 10 points. Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) stopped to one point less. Quarters: 9-16, 14-18, 8-20, 15-23. Spain will play against France today. Holland will meet Hungary.

Turkey - Hungary 51-42
Turkey outplayed Hungary 51-42 in Cagliari for 3-0 record in Qualifying Group F. Thanks to this win Turkey already secured a spot for the Quarterfinals. Hungary dropped to 0-3, but still has some chances to reach the next stage. Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) was a key player in victory with monster double-double of 23 points and 16 rebounds (valuation 32). Busra Akbas (168-PG-95) had 9 points and 5 rebounds, while Ezgi Manlaci (175-G-96) added 8 pts in this victory. In Hungary, Vivien Borondy (170-PG-95) was better than the others with 9 points. Dora Nagy (170-PG-95) had two less than her. Quarters: 13-15, 10-8, 19-10, 9-9. In the next game Turkey will meet Italy. Hungary will play against Holland.

France - Italy 51-70
France made a big step forward to Quarterfinals in Cagliari. They outplayed France 70-51 for 2-1 record in Qualifying Group F. On the other side, France dropped to 1-2 and still has a good chance to reach the next stage. Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) came up with 21 points and 6 rebounds in victory. Elisa Penna (185-F-95) had 17 points and 6 boards, while Sofia Marangoni (174-PG-95) added 16 pts and 5 assists. Assitan Kone (191-F-95) collected 13 points and 6 rebounds in defeat. Berengere Dinga-Mbomi (174-G-95) (5 rebs) and Mousdandy Djaldi-Tabdi (184-F-95) (6 rebs) scored 11 and 10 points respectively. Quarters: 16-17, 11-20, 14-16, 10-17. Italy will meet Turkey in the next game. France will play against Spain.

Group G
Poland - Serbia 54-69
Serbia made a first step forward to survival in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They handed 69-54 loss to Poland for 1-0 record in Group G. Poland has 0-1 now. Sanja Mandic (177-G-95) was the leading player in victory with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-C/F-96) also was great adding 14 points and 11 boards, while Mirjana Ristic (95) helped with 13 pts and 8 rebs. In the loosing squad, Angelika Stankiewicz (170-G-95) delivered 13 points. Their second scorer was Magdalena Pisera (176-G-95) with 11 points. Quarters: 15-18, 19-11, 12-19, 8-21. In the next game Serbia will meet Croatia. Poland will take on Finland.

Croatia - Finland 76-47
Croatia blasted Finland in their first game in Group G. It was a 76-47 victory for Croatia, who made a first step forward to survival in Division A. Finland has 0-1 now. Dana Saric (174-F-95) led Croatia with 18 points and 7 rebounds yesterday. Inja Butina (170-PG-95) had 14 points, 5 boards and 5 assists, while Ivana Matic (181-F-95) added 13 pts. In defeat, Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) and Jenni Rantanen (171-G-95) scored 10 points each. They did not have any other player with double-digits. Quarters: 14-14, 27-13, 18-7, 17-13. Croatia will meet Serbia today. Finland will take on Poland.

W-Standings - Div.A
Standings
Group E
1. Russia3-0
2. Sweden3-0
3. Belgium2-1
4. Greece1-2
5. Czech Rep.0-3
6. Slovakia0-3
Group F
1. Spain3-0
2. Turkey3-0
3. Italy2-1
4. France1-2
5. Hungary0-3
6. Holland0-3
Group G
1. Serbia1-0
2. Croatia1-0
3. Finland0-1
4. Poland0-1


Stats Leaders W - Group A
Points Per Game
 Antonija CHIABOV
  (190-C-95)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Chiabov, CRO18.5 
 2. Mandic, SRB16.3 
 3. Coklar, TUR16.0 
 4. Arrojo, ESP15.3 
 5. Zandalasini, ITA14.8 
 6. Hoskova, CZE14.8 
 7. Ben Abdelkad., BEL14.8 
 8. Djaldi-Tabdi, FRA13.5 
 9. Crvendakic, SRB13.3 
 10. Hruscakova, SVK13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Hulya COKLAR
  (188-C-95)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Coklar, TUR12.3 
 2. Hanson, SWE11.3 
 3. Szajtauer, POL11.0 
 4. Hruscakova, SVK10.0 
 5. Crvendakic, SRB9.3 
 6. Lammerink, NED9.0 
 7. Magarity, SWE8.5 
 8. Chiabov, CRO8.5 
 9. Gaye, FRA8.5 
 10. Dudasova, SVK8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Hind BEN ABDELKADER
  (170-G/F-95)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Ben Abdelkad., BEL4.8 
 2. Kyratzi, GRE4.0 
 3. Allemand, BEL4.0 
 4. Butina, CRO3.5 
 5. Mandic, SRB3.3 
 6. Akbas, TUR3.3 
 7. Matuskova, SVK3.3 
 8. Arrojo, ESP3.0 
 9. Romero, ESP2.8 
 10. Marangoni, ITA2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Leticia ROMERO
  (174-F-95)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Romero, ESP3.5 
 2. Hanson, SWE3.3 
 3. Butina, CRO3.3 
 4. Pujol, ESP2.8 
 5. Nagy, HUN2.7 
 6. Borondy, HUN2.5 
 7. Arrojo, ESP2.5 
 8. Trisic, SRB2.5 
 9. Rodriguez, ESP2.5 
 10. Chiabov, CRO2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Antonija CHIABOV
  (190-C-95)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Chiabov, CRO2.8 
 2. Zarevuckaa, SVK2.3 
 3. Crvendakic, SRB2.0 
 4. Pobozy, POL1.8 
 5. Gaye, FRA1.8 
 6. Magarity, SWE1.5 
 7. Shchetina, RUS1.3 
 8. Linskens, BEL1.3 
 9. Sulima, POL1.0 
 10. Szajtauer, POL1.0 


Standings - Div.B - by Eurobasket News
Standings Div.B
Group E
1. Portugal3-0
2. Slovenia2-1
3. U.Kingdom2-1
4. Latvia1-2
5. Ukraine1-2
6. Estonia0-3
Group F
1. Germany3-0
2. Lithuania3-0
3. Denmark2-1
4. Romania1-2
5. Switzerland0-3
6. Bulgaria0-3
Group G
1. Israel1-0
2. Belarus0-0
3. Ireland0-0
4. Luxembourg0-1


Div B. - by Greg
Points Per Game
 Noemie ROUAULT
  (180-F-95)
  Avg: 28
 1. Rouault, GER28.0 
 2. Batrakova, UKR27.0 
 3. Hristova, BUL25.0 
 4. Banet, ISR24.0 
 5. Avram, ROM22.0 
 6. Stach, GER21.0 
 7. Kraujunaite, LTU19.0 
 8. Monakana, ENG17.0 
 9. Ferreira, POR17.0 
 10. Laksa, LAT16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tetyana ANTONYUK
  (184-C-95)
  Avg: 22
 1. Antonyuk, UKR22.0 
 2. Rouault, GER17.0 
 3. Putramentait., LTU14.0 
 4. Batrakova, UKR14.0 
 5. Avram, ROM12.0 
 6. Monakana, ENG12.0 
 7. Jablonowski, LUX11.0 
 8. Ceponyte, LTU11.0 
 9. Green, ENG10.0 
 10. Popova, UKR9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Emma lina STACH
  (175-PG-96)
  Avg: 8
 1. Stach, GER8.0 
 2. Aha, GER6.0 
 3. Sirsinaityte, LTU5.0 
 4. Belickaite, LTU5.0 
 5. Fisker, DEN4.0 
 6. Radt, ISR4.0 
 7. Degbeon, GER4.0 
 8. Kreslina, LAT4.0 
 9. Hristova, BUL4.0 
 10. Ferreira, POR3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Dalia BELICKAITE
  (175-F-96)
  Avg: 9
 1. Belickaite, LTU9.0 
 2. Sirsinaityte, LTU9.0 
 3. Mollerup, DEN6.0 
 4. Banet, ISR6.0 
 5. Hafner, SLO5.0 
 6. Soeiro, POR5.0 
 7. Gavrila, ROM5.0 
 8. Preetzmann, DEN5.0 
 9. Abboud, ISR5.0 
 10. Radt, ISR4.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Bianca BLANARU
  (193-C-95)
  Avg: 8
 1. Blanaru, ROM8.0 
 2. Batrakova, UKR3.0 
 3. Avram, ROM3.0 
 4. Eneva, BUL2.0 
 5. Lugt, SUI2.0 
 6. Porat, ISR2.0 
 7. Antonyuk, UKR2.0 
 8. Balaisyte, LTU2.0 
 9. Lisec, SLO2.0 
 10. Hristova, BUL1.0 


*****************************************************
  FINLAND - Women  


U16 Croatia destroys U16 Finland 76-47 - by Eurobasket News
U16 CROATIA - U16 FINLAND 76-47

Croatia blasted Finland in their first game in Group G. It was a 76-47 victory for Croatia, who made a first step forward to survival in Division A. Finland has 0-1 now. Dana Saric (174-F-95) led Croatia with 18 points and 7 rebounds yesterday. Inja Butina (170-PG-95) had 14 points, 5 boards and 5 assists, while Ivana Matic (181-F-95) added 13 pts. In defeat, Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) and Jenni Rantanen (171-G-95) scored 10 points each. They did not have any other player with double-digits. Quarters: 14-14, 27-13, 18-7, 17-13. Croatia will meet Serbia today. Finland will take on Poland.

Croatia: Dana Saric 18+7 boards, Inja Butina 14+5 boards+5 as, Ivana Matic 13
Finland: Anni Jamsa 10, Jenni Rantanen 10

2011 Universiade. Finland nip Lithuania in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Finland - Lithuania 69:66

Finland posted the second win at World University Games in China. They narrowly defeated Lithuania to improve at 2-1 record in Group A. Finland will now face USA at the quarterfinal stage on Thursday. Linda-Lotta Lehtoranta (175-G-91) knocked down 19 points to lead the charge. Lithuania suffered the third loss in a row.
Lithuania opened the game on a 10:2 run but Finland managed to bounce back. They levelled things up at 16 after ten minutes. The lead changed hands throughout the second frame. Finland eventually eked out a 27:24 halftime lead. The Finnish team boosted the gap in the third quarter. They ensured a 51:43 advantage at the final break. Finland stretched the gap at 12-point mark midway through the fourth period and withheld a furious comeback effort from Lithuania to celebrate victory at the end. Krista Gross (183-G/F-90) posted 11 points and 8 rebounds, while Minna Sten (189-F-87) netted 10 points in the win. Lina Aglinskaite (182-F-87) responded with 17 points for Lithuania. Greta Sniokaite (180-G-91) produced 14 points in the loss.

Finland: Linda-Lotta Lehtoranta 19, Krista Gross 11, Minna Sten 10
Lithuania: Lina Aglinskaite 17, Greta Sniokaite 14


*****************************************************
  FRANCE - Women  


U16 Italy celebrates valuable 70-51 win against U16 France - by Eurobasket News
U16 FRANCE - U16 ITALY 51-70

France made a big step forward to Quarterfinals in Cagliari. They outplayed France 70-51 for 2-1 record in Qualifying Group F. On the other side, France dropped to 1-2 and still has a good chance to reach the next stage. Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) came up with 21 points and 6 rebounds in victory. Elisa Penna (185-F-95) had 17 points and 6 boards, while Sofia Marangoni (174-PG-95) added 16 pts and 5 assists. Assitan Kone (191-F-95) collected 13 points and 6 rebounds in defeat. Berengere Dinga-Mbomi (174-G-95) (5 rebs) and Mousdandy Djaldi-Tabdi (184-F-95) (6 rebs) scored 11 and 10 points respectively. Quarters: 16-17, 11-20, 14-16, 10-17. Italy will meet Turkey in the next game. France will play against Spain.

France: Assitan Kone 13+6 boards, Berengere Dinga-Mbomi 11+5 boards, Mousdandy Djaldi-Tabdi 10+6 boards
Italy: Cecilia Zandalasini 21+6 boards, Elisa Penna 17+6 boards, Sofia Marangoni 16+5 as

*****************************************************
  GERMANY - Women  


U16 Germany keeps winning in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: BULGARIA - GERMANY 62-78

Germany jumped to 3-0 in Qualifying Group F and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. They outplayed Bulgaria yesterday 78-62. Bulgarians dropped to 0-3 after this game, but still have some chances to reach the next stage. Noemie Rouault (180-F-95) stepped up for the winners with 28 points and 17 rebounds (valuation 35!!). Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) also was amazing with 21 points, 9 rebs and 8 assists. Alina Hartmann (182-F-95) helped with 10 points and 7 boards. In the loosing squad, Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) was way better than the others with 25 points and 7 rebounds. Maria Kamburova (182-F-96) and Kalina Aksentieva (182-F-95) netted 8 points each. Quarters: 20-23, 17-14, 7-22, 18-19. Today, Germany will meet Romania. Bulgaria will play against also winless Switzerland.

Bulgaria: Borislava Hristova 25+7 boards, Maria Kamburova 8, Kalina Aksentieva 8
Germany: Noemie Rouault 28+17 boards, Emma lina Stach 21+9 boards+8 as, Alina Hartmann 10+7 boards

Leonie Bleker and Ulrich Overhoff signs with Phoenix Ladies - by Eurobasket News
Leonie Bleker (189-C-90) signs with Phoenix Ladies for 2011/2012 season. The player spent last year with BG Dorsten (Germany-2.Bundesliga).
In 2009-2010 she appeared for evo New Basket Oberhausen (DBBL) and in 11 games averaged 1.3ppg, 1.1rpg junior team, then moved to evo New Basket Oberhausen (Germany-DBBL). In 2010-2011 joined BG Dorsten (Germany-2.Bundesliga, starting five) and in 19 games had 13.1ppg, 7.6rpg, 0.6apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 39.3%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 39.4%.
Ulrich Overhoff meanwhile became the head Coach of Phoenix Ladies. The German specialist was known for SV Hagen-Haspe 70 (Regionalliga) for three seasons and also when he came back to the team in 2006. He replaced Therese Schielke who was a Head Coach of the Phoenix Hagen Ladies (2.Bundesliga) women team. Overhoff is well-acquainted with TSV Hagen 1860. Last year he had already trained the Regional team and was also a successful coach of the U15 team, which was under his direction, German vice-champions for the girls.


SV Halle completes roster - by Juliane Hoehne
SV Halle Lions announced the signing of 24-year old Whitney Cunningham (191-C-87, college: Coppin St.). The American Center will join the team after a year abstinence on the basketball court. However, Head Coach Jaroslaw Zyskowski is sure Cunningham will be the missing piece in the puzzle. Cunningham completed her college career at Coppin State University, where she averaged her senior year 12.1ppg, 9.1rpg, and 2.0bpg, while shooting 54.5% from the floor. She was named to the All-MEAC 1st Team and MEAC Defensive Player of the Year 2009. After graduating, Cunningham played her first professional season for the San Juan Warriors, in the highest league in Puerto Rico. She averaged 11.8ppg, while grabbing impressive 12.6rpg, and blocking 3.1 shots. Exactly those qualities in the defensive area will be expected from her in her new team. Together with Tamara Tatham (187-F-85, college: Massachusetts), Laura Masek (187-F-92), and Anna Heise (190-C-93), the post positions are well staffed by the SV Halle Lions, and together with the other signies Michaela Abelova (183-G-85), Nadja Protzig (179-F-89) and the youngsters Laura Hebecker (181-F-93), Inken-Viktoria Henningsen (179-G-93), Julia Kohlmann (172-G-92), and Maria Uhlenhaut (176-F-93), SV Halle Lions is ready to beginn the new season.

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  GREECE - Women  


U16 Belgium beats U16 Greece 55-37 in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 GREECE - U16 BELGIUM 37-55

Both teams had 1-1 record in Group E before this meeting. Belgium jumped to third place in this pool thanks to 55-37 victory yesterday. On the other side, Greece dropped to fourth place with 1-2. Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-G/F-95) was the leading player in victory with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Their second scorer was An-Katrien Nauwelaers (178-F-95) with 8 points and she grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. In Greece, Eleftheria Kalomitsini (95) top-scored with 10 points. Dimitra Tsavou (182-F-96) collected 9 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 8-14, 8-12, 6-23, 15-6. Today, Belgium will meet Russia. Greece will play against Sweden.

Greece: Eleftheria Kalomitsini 10, Dimitra Tsavou 9+10 boards
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 16+5 boards, An-Katrien Nauwelaers 8+5 boards

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  HOLLAND - Women  


U16 Spain continues with victories in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 HOLLAND - U16 SPAIN 46-77

Spain registered another win in Cagliari. This time they blasted Holland 77-46 for perfect 3-0 in Qualifying Group F. At the same time, Holland dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Maria Arrojo (186-F-85) led Spain with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Carolina Del Santo (182-C-95) had 16 points and 6 boards, while Marina Lizarazu (172-F-95) had 11 points and 5 assists. In defeat, Klaziena Guijt (173-G-95) top-scored with 10 points. Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) stopped to one point less. Quarters: 9-16, 14-18, 8-20, 15-23. Spain will play against France today. Holland will meet Hungary.

Holland: Klaziena Guijt 10, Lisanne de Jonge 10
Spain: Maria Arrojo 21+8 boards, Carolina Del Santo 16+6 boards, Marina Lizarazu 11+5 as

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  HUNGARY - Women  


U16 Turkey hands 51-42 loss to U16 Hungary - by Eurobasket News
U16 TURKEY - U16 HUNGARY 51-42

Turkey outplayed Hungary 51-42 in Cagliari for 3-0 record in Qualifying Group F. Thanks to this win Turkey already secured a spot for the Quarterfinals. Hungary dropped to 0-3, but still has some chances to reach the next stage. Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) was a key player in victory with monster double-double of 23 points and 16 rebounds (valuation 32). Busra Akbas (168-PG-95) had 9 points and 5 rebounds, while Ezgi Manlaci (175-G-96) added 8 pts in this victory. In Hungary, Vivien Borondy (170-PG-95) was better than the others with 9 points. Dora Nagy (170-PG-95) had two less than her. Quarters: 13-15, 10-8, 19-10, 9-9. In the next game Turkey will meet Italy. Hungary will play against Holland.

Turkey: Hulya Coklar 23+16 boards, Busra Akbas 9+5 boards, Ezgi Manlaci 8
Hungary: Vivien Borondy 9, Dora Nagy 7

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  ISRAEL - Women  


U16 Israel starts with victory in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: LUXEMBOURG - ISRAEL 62-97

Israel made a first step forward to survival in Division A. They handed 97-62 loss to Luxembourg for 1-0 record in Group G. Luxembourg has 0-1 now. Ofir Banet (165-PG-96) led the winners with 24 points yesterday. Noa Zelivanski (168-PG-96) and Shahd Abboud (173-F-95) delivered 13 and 12 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Alexa Sanelli (174-F-95) was better than the others with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Charlie Bidinger (167-G-95) followed her with 10 pts. Quarters: 16-21, 13-26, 15-29, 18-21. Israel will play against Ireland today. Luxembourg has a day-off.

Luxembourg: Alexa Sanelli 15+5 boards, Charlie Bidinger 10
Israel: Ofir Banet 24, Noa Zelivanski 13, Shahd Abboud 12

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  ITALY - Women  


U16 Italy celebrates valuable 70-51 win against U16 France - by Eurobasket News
U16 FRANCE - U16 ITALY 51-70

France made a big step forward to Quarterfinals in Cagliari. They outplayed France 70-51 for 2-1 record in Qualifying Group F. On the other side, France dropped to 1-2 and still has a good chance to reach the next stage. Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) came up with 21 points and 6 rebounds in victory. Elisa Penna (185-F-95) had 17 points and 6 boards, while Sofia Marangoni (174-PG-95) added 16 pts and 5 assists. Assitan Kone (191-F-95) collected 13 points and 6 rebounds in defeat. Berengere Dinga-Mbomi (174-G-95) (5 rebs) and Mousdandy Djaldi-Tabdi (184-F-95) (6 rebs) scored 11 and 10 points respectively. Quarters: 16-17, 11-20, 14-16, 10-17. Italy will meet Turkey in the next game. France will play against Spain.

France: Assitan Kone 13+6 boards, Berengere Dinga-Mbomi 11+5 boards, Mousdandy Djaldi-Tabdi 10+6 boards
Italy: Cecilia Zandalasini 21+6 boards, Elisa Penna 17+6 boards, Sofia Marangoni 16+5 as

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  JAPAN - Women  


2011 Universiade. The Swedish Womens University team trounced Japan - by Eurobasket News
Japan-Sweden 73:108

The Swedish Womens University basketball team has trounced Japan in their third game of the 2011 Summer Universiade, running away with the 108:73 victory in Shenzhen.
Japan opened the game better but failed immediately in the first period. Sweden was unrelenting, dominating the game from the get-go, taking a 29:23 quarter time lead, thanks to the combined efforts of the team game. Another 28-13 in the second period brought them 57:36 at the halftime. Japan had the third quarter as the most productive as they managed to tie the quarter at 23-23. Sweden won the last stanza 28-14 and scored three digit number in the game.
Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) paced all the winners with 24 points and Kalis Loyd (185-G-89) collected 21 points and 12 boards. Elisabeth Egnell (185-F-87, college: Boston Coll.) notched 15, while Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) and Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) posted 14 each. Azusa Sato (167-G-89) replied with 19 points, while Mio Shinozaki (166-PG-91) added 16.

Japan: Azusa Sato 19, Mio Shinozaki 16
Sweden: Frida Eldebrink 24, Kalis Loyd 21+12 rebs, Elisabeth Egnell 15, Farhiya Abdi 14, Louice Halvarsson 14


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  LATVIA - Women  


U16 UK improves to 2-1 in Group E - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: UNITED KINGDOM - LATVIA 61-55

United Kingdom celebrated valuable 61-55 win against Latvia yesterday. Thanks to this victory UK jumped to second place in Qualifying Group E with 2-1 record. On the other side, Latvia dropped to fourth place with 1-2. Janice Monakana (183-F-95) shined for the winners with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Cheridene Green (187-C-95) had 13 points and 10 boards, while Shequila Joseph (189-F-95) helped her team with 11 pts. In Latvia, Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) top-scored with 16 points. Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) followed her with 2 points less. Quarters: 19-10, 15-13, 7-13, 20-19. In the next game UK will play against Portugal. Latvia will take on Slovenia.

United Kingdom: Janice Monakana 17+12 boards, Cheridene Green 13+10 boards, Shequila Joseph 11
Latvia: Kitija Laksa 16, Kate Kreslina 14

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  LITHUANIA - Women  


2011 Universiade. Finland nip Lithuania in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Finland - Lithuania 69:66

Finland posted the second win at World University Games in China. They narrowly defeated Lithuania to improve at 2-1 record in Group A. Finland will now face USA at the quarterfinal stage on Thursday. Linda-Lotta Lehtoranta (175-G-91) knocked down 19 points to lead the charge. Lithuania suffered the third loss in a row.
Lithuania opened the game on a 10:2 run but Finland managed to bounce back. They levelled things up at 16 after ten minutes. The lead changed hands throughout the second frame. Finland eventually eked out a 27:24 halftime lead. The Finnish team boosted the gap in the third quarter. They ensured a 51:43 advantage at the final break. Finland stretched the gap at 12-point mark midway through the fourth period and withheld a furious comeback effort from Lithuania to celebrate victory at the end. Krista Gross (183-G/F-90) posted 11 points and 8 rebounds, while Minna Sten (189-F-87) netted 10 points in the win. Lina Aglinskaite (182-F-87) responded with 17 points for Lithuania. Greta Sniokaite (180-G-91) produced 14 points in the loss.

Finland: Linda-Lotta Lehtoranta 19, Krista Gross 11, Minna Sten 10
Lithuania: Lina Aglinskaite 17, Greta Sniokaite 14


U16 Lithuania stays perfect in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: SWITZERLAND - LITHUANIA 52-84

Lithuania already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals in Arad. They cruised past Switzerland yesterday 84-52 for perfect 3-0 record in Qualifying Group F. On the other side, Switzerland stays winless (0-3). Justina Kraujunaite (174-F-95) came up with 19 points for Lithuania and Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) added 15 points, plus 5 assists. Roberta Mizgeryte (188-F-95) followed them with 10 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Dijana Milenkovic (180-F-96) delivered 12 points. Their second scorer was Miryam Sohm (175-F-95) with 11 points and 8 rebs. Quarters: 11-23, 15-20, 13-19, 13-22. Today Lithuania will meet Denmark. Switzerland will play against Bulgaria.

Switzerland: Dijana Milenkovic 12, Miryam Sohm 11+8 boards
Lithuania: Justina Kraujunaite 19, Dalia Belickaite 15+5 as, Roberta Mizgeryte 10+6 boards

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  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


U16 Israel starts with victory in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: LUXEMBOURG - ISRAEL 62-97

Israel made a first step forward to survival in Division A. They handed 97-62 loss to Luxembourg for 1-0 record in Group G. Luxembourg has 0-1 now. Ofir Banet (165-PG-96) led the winners with 24 points yesterday. Noa Zelivanski (168-PG-96) and Shahd Abboud (173-F-95) delivered 13 and 12 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Alexa Sanelli (174-F-95) was better than the others with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Charlie Bidinger (167-G-95) followed her with 10 pts. Quarters: 16-21, 13-26, 15-29, 18-21. Israel will play against Ireland today. Luxembourg has a day-off.

Luxembourg: Alexa Sanelli 15+5 boards, Charlie Bidinger 10
Israel: Ofir Banet 24, Noa Zelivanski 13, Shahd Abboud 12

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  NCAA1 - Women  


2011 Universiade. Great Britain unable to match USA - by Eurobasket News
USA - Great Britain 85:33

USA registered the third straight win at 2011 World University Games in China. They overwhelmed Great Britain in Group B. USA thus clinched the top position in group standings. Skylar Diggins (5'9''-G-90) knocked down 13 points and made 6 steals to pace the USA. Great Britain fell at 1-2 record in the loss.
USA started the game strongly. They registered a 23:11 lead at the first break. USA opened the second term on a 15:4 run to boost the margin. They registered a 53:17 halftime lead. The North American team maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They ensured a comfortable 67:24 lead heading into the fourth quarter. USA did not loosen the grasp in the final quarter and stormed to the victory at the end. Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2''-F-90) added 12 points, while Elena Delle Donne (6'5''-G/F-89) had 10 points in the victory. Aderonke Oyefuwa (6'6''-C-89) answered with 9 points for Great Britain. Dominique Allen (6'2''-C-89, college: ORU) and Rose Anderson (5'9''-G-88) finished with 6 points each in the loss.

USA: Skylar Diggins 13, Nnemkadi Ogwumike 12, Elena Delle Donne 10
Great Britain: Aderonke Oyefuwa 9, Dominique Allen 6, Rose Anderson 6


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  POLAND - Women  


U16 Serbia better than U16 Poland 69-54 in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U16 POLAND - U16 SERBIA 54-69

Serbia made a first step forward to survival in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They handed 69-54 loss to Poland for 1-0 record in Group G. Poland has 0-1 now. Sanja Mandic (177-G-95) was the leading player in victory with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-C/F-96) also was great adding 14 points and 11 boards, while Mirjana Ristic (95) helped with 13 pts and 8 rebs. In the loosing squad, Angelika Stankiewicz (170-G-95) delivered 13 points. Their second scorer was Magdalena Pisera (176-G-95) with 11 points. Quarters: 15-18, 19-11, 12-19, 8-21. In the next game Serbia will meet Croatia. Poland will take on Finland.

Poland: Angelika Stankiewicz 13, Magdalena Pisera 11
Serbia: Sanja Mandic 19+10 boards, Aleksandra Crvendakic 14+11 boards, Mirjana Ristic 13+8 boards

2011 Universiade. Russia hold off Poland - by Eurobasket News
Russia - Poland 53:45

Russia celebrated the second straight win at World University Games. Natalia Myasoedova (193-C-87) scored 11 points to lead Russia past Poland. The winners clinched the top position in Group C. They will now face Sweden in the quarterfinals. Poland fell at 0-2 record in the loss.
Russia limited their opponents to just 7 points in the starting quarter. They posted a 14:7 lead at the first break. Poland cut the deficit at just four points 25:29 at halftime. Poland got even closer in the third quarter. They narrowed the margin to just a single point 36:37 at the final break. Poland surged ahead midway through the fourth frame but could not capitalize. Russia pulled back in charge late in regulation and sealed the victory at the end. Maria Cherepanova (187-C-87) posted 10 points and 11 rebounds for Russia. Claudia Trebicka (175-G/F-90) and Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) replied with 11 points apiece for Poland. Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk (188-F/C-89) provided 9 points in the losing effort.

Russia: Natalia Myasoedova 11, Maria Cherepanova 10+11 boards, Tatiana Petrushina 6, Anastasiya Loginova 6
Poland: Claudia Trebicka 11, Agnieszka Skobel 11



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  PORTUGAL - Women  


U16 Portugal jumps to 3-0 in Group E in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: ESTONIA - PORTUGAL 31-73

Portugal jumped to 3-0 in Qualifying Group E. They blasted Estonia 73-31 and already secured a spot for the Quarterfinals in Arad. On the other side, Estonia dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) led the winners with 17 points. Sofia Pinheiro (171-G-95) and Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) added 11 and 10 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Tatjana Razguliajeva (173-G-96) top-scored with just 7 points. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) stopped to 6 points and 8 rebounds. Quarters: 8-20, 4-11, 13-27, 6-15. In the next game Portugal will meet United Kingdom. Estonia will play against Ukraine.

Estonia: Tatjana Razguliajeva 7, Trine Kasemagi 6+8 boards
Portugal: Laura Ferreira 17, Sofia Pinheiro 11, Joana Soeiro 10

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  ROMANIA - Women  


U16 Denmark extends winning streak in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: DENMARK - ROMANIA 61-56

Both teams had 1-1 record in Qualifying Group F before this meeting. Denmark outplayed the host of this event 61-56 jumping to third place 2-1 score. Romania dropped to fourth position. Kia Fisker (185-F/C-95) (6 rebs) and Frederikke Mollerup (177-G-95) led the winners with 15 points each. Sofie Preetzmann (180-G-95) had 12 points and 8 rebounds. In defeat, Simina Avram (190-C-95) came up with double-double of 22 points and 12 rebs. The second scorer in Romania was Cristina Gavrila (172-G-95) with 11 points. Quarters: 9-13, 10-14, 19-12, 23-17. Denmark will meet Lithuania today. Romania will take on Germany.

Denmark: Kia Fisker 15+6 boards, Frederikke Mollerup 15, Sofie Preetzmann 12+8 boards
Romania: Simina Avram 22+12 boards, Cristina Gavrila 11

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  RUSSIA - Women  


2011 Universiade. Russia hold off Poland - by Eurobasket News
Russia - Poland 53:45

Russia celebrated the second straight win at World University Games. Natalia Myasoedova (193-C-87) scored 11 points to lead Russia past Poland. The winners clinched the top position in Group C. They will now face Sweden in the quarterfinals. Poland fell at 0-2 record in the loss.
Russia limited their opponents to just 7 points in the starting quarter. They posted a 14:7 lead at the first break. Poland cut the deficit at just four points 25:29 at halftime. Poland got even closer in the third quarter. They narrowed the margin to just a single point 36:37 at the final break. Poland surged ahead midway through the fourth frame but could not capitalize. Russia pulled back in charge late in regulation and sealed the victory at the end. Maria Cherepanova (187-C-87) posted 10 points and 11 rebounds for Russia. Claudia Trebicka (175-G/F-90) and Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) replied with 11 points apiece for Poland. Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk (188-F/C-89) provided 9 points in the losing effort.

Russia: Natalia Myasoedova 11, Maria Cherepanova 10+11 boards, Tatiana Petrushina 6, Anastasiya Loginova 6
Poland: Claudia Trebicka 11, Agnieszka Skobel 11



U16 Russia extends winning streak in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 RUSSIA - U16 SLOVAKIA 60-53

Russia jumped to 3-0 in Qualifying Group E in Miskolc. They handed 60-53 loss to Slovakia and already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals. On the other side Slovakia dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Ekaterina Ilinova (178-G) led the winners with 15 points. Yuliya Chaykovskaya (173-G-95) scored 12 points, while Ekaterina Tsukanova (183-F-95) added 11 pts and 9 boards. In the loosing squad, Nikola Dudasova (169-PG-95) collected 14 points and 6 boards. Terezia Palenikova (170-PG-95) and Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) (10 rebs) scored 13 and 10 points respectively. Quarters: 13-13, 17-13, 10-18, 20-9. In the next game Russia will meet Russia will meet Belgium. Slovakia will take on Czech Republic.

Russia: Ekaterina Ilinova 15, Yuliya Chaykovskaya 12, Ekaterina Tsukanova 11+9 boards
Slovakia: Nikola Dudasova 14+6 boards, Terezia Palenikova 13, Zofia Hruscakova 13+10 boards

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  SERBIA - Women  


U16 Serbia better than U16 Poland 69-54 in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U16 POLAND - U16 SERBIA 54-69

Serbia made a first step forward to survival in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They handed 69-54 loss to Poland for 1-0 record in Group G. Poland has 0-1 now. Sanja Mandic (177-G-95) was the leading player in victory with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-C/F-96) also was great adding 14 points and 11 boards, while Mirjana Ristic (95) helped with 13 pts and 8 rebs. In the loosing squad, Angelika Stankiewicz (170-G-95) delivered 13 points. Their second scorer was Magdalena Pisera (176-G-95) with 11 points. Quarters: 15-18, 19-11, 12-19, 8-21. In the next game Serbia will meet Croatia. Poland will take on Finland.

Poland: Angelika Stankiewicz 13, Magdalena Pisera 11
Serbia: Sanja Mandic 19+10 boards, Aleksandra Crvendakic 14+11 boards, Mirjana Ristic 13+8 boards

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


U16 Russia extends winning streak in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 RUSSIA - U16 SLOVAKIA 60-53

Russia jumped to 3-0 in Qualifying Group E in Miskolc. They handed 60-53 loss to Slovakia and already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals. On the other side Slovakia dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Ekaterina Ilinova (178-G) led the winners with 15 points. Yuliya Chaykovskaya (173-G-95) scored 12 points, while Ekaterina Tsukanova (183-F-95) added 11 pts and 9 boards. In the loosing squad, Nikola Dudasova (169-PG-95) collected 14 points and 6 boards. Terezia Palenikova (170-PG-95) and Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) (10 rebs) scored 13 and 10 points respectively. Quarters: 13-13, 17-13, 10-18, 20-9. In the next game Russia will meet Russia will meet Belgium. Slovakia will take on Czech Republic.

Russia: Ekaterina Ilinova 15, Yuliya Chaykovskaya 12, Ekaterina Tsukanova 11+9 boards
Slovakia: Nikola Dudasova 14+6 boards, Terezia Palenikova 13, Zofia Hruscakova 13+10 boards

2011 Universiade. Brazil and Slovakia opened Day 3 in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Slovakia-Brazil 44:65

Brazil and Slovakia opened Day 3 in Shenzhen at the World University Games. The Latin American team celebrated the second 65:44 win for 2-1 record in the group. Slovakia finished it with 0-3 record on the last spot.
Brazil needed a win for the Quarterfinal hope and will need USA to beat United Kingdom. Brazil started with 8:4 and had 14:12 at the end of the first frame. They held the opponents in the start of the second quarter and improved to 28:22 at the halftime. The lead continued to grow as the Latin American squad won the third and the last stanzas. After 21-15 in the third the board showed 49:37 and then Brazil added 16-7 in the last stanza.
Leila Zabani (180-G/F-91) stepped up with 13 points for the winners and Nadia Calhado (196-C-89) collected 12 points and 14 rebounds. Patricia Ribeiro (178-G/F-90) and Camila Lacerda (168-G/F-89) followed them with 8 points apiece. Diana Benuskova (167-PG-89) and Katarina Pindrochova (183-F-88) delivered 9 pojnts each in the losing effort.

Slovakia: Diana Benuskova 9+10 steals, Katarina Pindrochova 9
Brazil: Leila Zabani 13, Nadia Calhado 12+14 rebs, Patricia Ribeiro 8, Camila Lacerda 8


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  SLOVENIA - Women  


U16 Ukraine destroys U16 Slovenia 63-37 in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: UKRAINE - SLOVENIA 63-37

Ukraine destroyed Slovenia 63-37 for the first victory in Qualifying Group E in Arad. Ukraine has 1-2 record now and a chance to reach the Quarterfinals. Slovenia faced with the first loss and they have 2-1 score now. Oksana Batrakova (186-C-95) exploded for Ukraine with 27 points and 14 rebounds. She reached valuation 35 and was the MVP of this meeting. Tetyana Antonyuk (184-C-95) helped Ukraine with 8 points and 22 rebounds. In defeat, Zala Lesek (187-F-97) was the best scorer with only 6 points. Quarters: 17-9, 18-9, 10-9, 18-10. Today, Ukraine will play against Estonia. Slovenia will take on Latvia.

Ukraine: Oksana Batrakova 27+14 boards, Tetyana Antonyuk 8+22 boards
Slovenia: Zala Lesek 6

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  SPAIN - Women  


U16 Spain continues with victories in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 HOLLAND - U16 SPAIN 46-77

Spain registered another win in Cagliari. This time they blasted Holland 77-46 for perfect 3-0 in Qualifying Group F. At the same time, Holland dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Maria Arrojo (186-F-85) led Spain with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Carolina Del Santo (182-C-95) had 16 points and 6 boards, while Marina Lizarazu (172-F-95) had 11 points and 5 assists. In defeat, Klaziena Guijt (173-G-95) top-scored with 10 points. Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) stopped to one point less. Quarters: 9-16, 14-18, 8-20, 15-23. Spain will play against France today. Holland will meet Hungary.

Holland: Klaziena Guijt 10, Lisanne de Jonge 10
Spain: Maria Arrojo 21+8 boards, Carolina Del Santo 16+6 boards, Marina Lizarazu 11+5 as

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  SWEDEN - Women  


Telge Basket announced Erica Prosser - by Eurobasket News
Telge Basket announced Erica Prosser (170-G) for the next season. The American Guard will debut in Europe in October.
In 2007-2008 she started for Lehigh (NCAA, starting five) and 31 games averaged 9.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 35.0%, 3Pts: 26.4%, FT: 73.3%. In 2008-2009 for Lehigh (NCAA, starting five) she improved to 14.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.4apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3Pts: 29.8%, FT: 84.3%. In
2009-2010 Erica showed 13.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 4.2apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 39.0%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 65.9%. The last season for Lehigh (NCAA, starting five) her stats read 14.2ppg, 2.3rpg, 5.8apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 68.9%.
Only last season she became Patriot League All-Tournament Team, All-Patriot League 1st Team, Patriot League Regular Season Co-Runner-Up , All-Patriot League Player of the Year, All-Patriot League Defensive Player of the Year and Patriot League All-Academic Team.
Erica Prosser became just the second womens basketball player in Patriot League history to eclipse 1,500 career points and 500 career assists. She finished her career third in Lehigh history with 1,676 points and second with 541 assists. Her 166 made three-pointers also stands third most.


Eos bring Helen Findley back to the roster - by Eurobasket News
Eos bring Helen Findley (183-F-89) back to the roster for the next season. The Swedish Forward played for a year with Norrkoping Dolphins and will be back now to Eos.
In 2007-2008 Helen Findley started for Sanda Basket (BasketEttan) and in 2009-2010 moved to IK Eos (Damligan, starting five). In 22 games: she averaged 11.0ppg, 6.5rpg, 2FGP: 33.6%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 67.4%. Last season she moved to Norrkoping Dolphins (Damligan, starting five) and in 29 games had 4.9ppg, 3.2rpg.
Helen Findley recorded 18 points at the Regular Season Round 1. Mark Basket opened the season with 55-67 away win against Norrkoping mostly owing to 23 points by Ashley Key, as well as 17 point effort from Rachel Maenpaa. For Norrkoping, Helen Findley and Fatima Maddox stood out with 18 and 15 points respectively.
Last year she was also Swedish National Team member. Her new team will open the season against Kvarnby.


2011 Universiade. The Swedish Womens University team trounced Japan - by Eurobasket News
Japan-Sweden 73:108

The Swedish Womens University basketball team has trounced Japan in their third game of the 2011 Summer Universiade, running away with the 108:73 victory in Shenzhen.
Japan opened the game better but failed immediately in the first period. Sweden was unrelenting, dominating the game from the get-go, taking a 29:23 quarter time lead, thanks to the combined efforts of the team game. Another 28-13 in the second period brought them 57:36 at the halftime. Japan had the third quarter as the most productive as they managed to tie the quarter at 23-23. Sweden won the last stanza 28-14 and scored three digit number in the game.
Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) paced all the winners with 24 points and Kalis Loyd (185-G-89) collected 21 points and 12 boards. Elisabeth Egnell (185-F-87, college: Boston Coll.) notched 15, while Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) and Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) posted 14 each. Azusa Sato (167-G-89) replied with 19 points, while Mio Shinozaki (166-PG-91) added 16.

Japan: Azusa Sato 19, Mio Shinozaki 16
Sweden: Frida Eldebrink 24, Kalis Loyd 21+12 rebs, Elisabeth Egnell 15, Farhiya Abdi 14, Louice Halvarsson 14


U16 Sweden jumps to 3-0 in Qualifying Group E - by Eurobasket News
U16 CZECH REPUBLIC - U16 SWEDEN 50-53

Sweden already secured a ticket for the Quarterfinals in Cagliari. They grabbed 53-50 win against Czech Republic for perfect 3-0 record in Qualifying Group E. On the other side, Czech Republic dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Gabriella Hanson (180-G-95) led the winners with double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds. Emma Eriksson (164-PG-95) had 14 pts and Regan Magarity (187-F-96) added 10 points, plus 15 boards. In the loosing squad, Sarah Berankova (174-PG-96) delivered 13 points. Their second best player was Kamila Hoskova (174-F-95) with 9 pts and 8 rebs. Quarters: 16-10, 10-18, 14-11, 10-14. Sweden will meet Greece today. Czech Republic will take on also winless Slovakia.

Czech Republic: Sarah Berankova 13, Kamila Hoskova 9+8 boards
Sweden: Gabriella Hanson 15+13 boards, Emma Eriksson 14, Regan Magarity 10+15 boards

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  SWITZERLAND - Women  


U16 Lithuania stays perfect in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: SWITZERLAND - LITHUANIA 52-84

Lithuania already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals in Arad. They cruised past Switzerland yesterday 84-52 for perfect 3-0 record in Qualifying Group F. On the other side, Switzerland stays winless (0-3). Justina Kraujunaite (174-F-95) came up with 19 points for Lithuania and Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) added 15 points, plus 5 assists. Roberta Mizgeryte (188-F-95) followed them with 10 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Dijana Milenkovic (180-F-96) delivered 12 points. Their second scorer was Miryam Sohm (175-F-95) with 11 points and 8 rebs. Quarters: 11-23, 15-20, 13-19, 13-22. Today Lithuania will meet Denmark. Switzerland will play against Bulgaria.

Switzerland: Dijana Milenkovic 12, Miryam Sohm 11+8 boards
Lithuania: Justina Kraujunaite 19, Dalia Belickaite 15+5 as, Roberta Mizgeryte 10+6 boards

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  TAIWAN - Women  


2011 Universiade. Taiwan surprise China, stay undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Taiwan - China 77:70

Taiwan ensured the third straight win at 2011 World University Games. They shot down hosting China to clinch 3-0 record on top of Group A. Taiwan will now face Brazil in the quarterfinals on Thursday. China fell at 1-2 record in the third position in the ladder. Huang Fan-Shan (173-G-87) scored 19 points and grabbed 6 boards to lead the effort.
Taiwan surged ahead from the starting moments. They established a 26:12 lead at the first break. China cut the deficit but still trailed by as many as 8 points at halftime 36:44. The hosts narrowed the deficit at 5-point mark midway through the third frame but Taiwan secured an 8-point cushion heading into the fourth quarter. The visitors enlarged the gap to 11 points in the final frame and held on to seal the win at the end. Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) notched 18 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for Taiwan. Huang Fan-Shan YingLi (170-G-89) had 11 points in the win. Wu Siyang (182-G/F-91) answered with 19 points for China. Shao Ting (183-F-89) posted 17 points and 14 rebounds in the loss.

Taiwan: Huang Fan-Shan 19, Chen Yu-Chun 18, Huang Fan-Shan YingLi 11
China: Wu Siyang 19, Shao Ting 17+14 boards


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  TURKEY - Women  


U16 Turkey hands 51-42 loss to U16 Hungary - by Eurobasket News
U16 TURKEY - U16 HUNGARY 51-42

Turkey outplayed Hungary 51-42 in Cagliari for 3-0 record in Qualifying Group F. Thanks to this win Turkey already secured a spot for the Quarterfinals. Hungary dropped to 0-3, but still has some chances to reach the next stage. Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) was a key player in victory with monster double-double of 23 points and 16 rebounds (valuation 32). Busra Akbas (168-PG-95) had 9 points and 5 rebounds, while Ezgi Manlaci (175-G-96) added 8 pts in this victory. In Hungary, Vivien Borondy (170-PG-95) was better than the others with 9 points. Dora Nagy (170-PG-95) had two less than her. Quarters: 13-15, 10-8, 19-10, 9-9. In the next game Turkey will meet Italy. Hungary will play against Holland.

Turkey: Hulya Coklar 23+16 boards, Busra Akbas 9+5 boards, Ezgi Manlaci 8
Hungary: Vivien Borondy 9, Dora Nagy 7

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  UKRAINE - Women  


U16 Ukraine destroys U16 Slovenia 63-37 in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: UKRAINE - SLOVENIA 63-37

Ukraine destroyed Slovenia 63-37 for the first victory in Qualifying Group E in Arad. Ukraine has 1-2 record now and a chance to reach the Quarterfinals. Slovenia faced with the first loss and they have 2-1 score now. Oksana Batrakova (186-C-95) exploded for Ukraine with 27 points and 14 rebounds. She reached valuation 35 and was the MVP of this meeting. Tetyana Antonyuk (184-C-95) helped Ukraine with 8 points and 22 rebounds. In defeat, Zala Lesek (187-F-97) was the best scorer with only 6 points. Quarters: 17-9, 18-9, 10-9, 18-10. Today, Ukraine will play against Estonia. Slovenia will take on Latvia.

Ukraine: Oksana Batrakova 27+14 boards, Tetyana Antonyuk 8+22 boards
Slovenia: Zala Lesek 6

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  UNITED KINGDOM - Women  


2011 Universiade. Great Britain unable to match USA - by Eurobasket News
USA - Great Britain 85:33

USA registered the third straight win at 2011 World University Games in China. They overwhelmed Great Britain in Group B. USA thus clinched the top position in group standings. Skylar Diggins (5'9''-G-90) knocked down 13 points and made 6 steals to pace the USA. Great Britain fell at 1-2 record in the loss.
USA started the game strongly. They registered a 23:11 lead at the first break. USA opened the second term on a 15:4 run to boost the margin. They registered a 53:17 halftime lead. The North American team maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They ensured a comfortable 67:24 lead heading into the fourth quarter. USA did not loosen the grasp in the final quarter and stormed to the victory at the end. Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2''-F-90) added 12 points, while Elena Delle Donne (6'5''-G/F-89) had 10 points in the victory. Aderonke Oyefuwa (6'6''-C-89) answered with 9 points for Great Britain. Dominique Allen (6'2''-C-89, college: ORU) and Rose Anderson (5'9''-G-88) finished with 6 points each in the loss.

USA: Skylar Diggins 13, Nnemkadi Ogwumike 12, Elena Delle Donne 10
Great Britain: Aderonke Oyefuwa 9, Dominique Allen 6, Rose Anderson 6


U16 UK improves to 2-1 in Group E - by Eurobasket News
U16 EuroBasket, Division B: UNITED KINGDOM - LATVIA 61-55

United Kingdom celebrated valuable 61-55 win against Latvia yesterday. Thanks to this victory UK jumped to second place in Qualifying Group E with 2-1 record. On the other side, Latvia dropped to fourth place with 1-2. Janice Monakana (183-F-95) shined for the winners with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Cheridene Green (187-C-95) had 13 points and 10 boards, while Shequila Joseph (189-F-95) helped her team with 11 pts. In Latvia, Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) top-scored with 16 points. Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) followed her with 2 points less. Quarters: 19-10, 15-13, 7-13, 20-19. In the next game UK will play against Portugal. Latvia will take on Slovenia.

United Kingdom: Janice Monakana 17+12 boards, Cheridene Green 13+10 boards, Shequila Joseph 11
Latvia: Kitija Laksa 16, Kate Kreslina 14

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  WNBA - Women  


Chicago's Fowles and Phoenix's Taurasi named Players of the Week - by Eurobasket News
Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) of the Chicago Sky and Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) of the Phoenix Mercury were named the WNBA's Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week, respectively, for regular season games played Monday, August 8 through Sunday, August 14.

Fowles's 13.7 rpg led the league by a wide margin (4.4 more than second-ranked Rebekkah Brunson of Minnesota) and her 25.0 ppg ranked second in the league behind only the 26.5 ppg of Indiana's Tamika Catchings. The Louisiana State University product also led the league in minutes played (37.0 mpg) and ranked second in shooting percentage (.659 on 29-of-44 from the field) as the Sky posted a 1-2 mark for the week.

Fowles, who registered three consecutive double-doubles, began the week with a 19-point, 11-rebound effort against the division rival Connecticut Sun and fellow center and league MVP candidate Tina Charles. The fourth-year pro then recorded 28 points and 13 boards in a 79-76 loss to the Minnesota Lynx. She closed out the week with another 28-point performance and a season-high 17 rebounds in an 85-73 win over the San Antonio Sivler Stars.

For the year, Fowles leads the WNBA in both field goal percentage (.584 on 192 of 329 from the field) and blocks (2.08 bpg), and ranks second in scoring (20.1 ppg), rebounds (10.0 rpg) and minutes played (34.8 mpg).

The Player of the Week award is the second of the year for Fowles and the fourth of her career.

Taurasi, meanwhile earned the 14th Player of the Week award of her career and her first such honor of 2011.

The former No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 WNBA Draft, Taurasi led all Western Conference players and ranked third in the league in scoring (22.7 ppg) as the Mercury posted a 2-1 record for the week. She also ranked among the conference's leaders in free throw percentage (.867 on 13-of-15 from the line) and assists (4.3 apg).

Taruasi's week began with a 26-point, six-rebound effort in an 85-80 win over Minnesota that was followed by a 21-point, five-assist outing in a 109-95 defeat of the defending Eastern Conference champion Atlanta Dream. The UConn product closed out the week by tallying 21 points and six assists in a road loss at Los Angeles.

On the season, the eighth-year pro leads the WNBA in scoring (20.9 ppg) and ranks 11th in assists (4.0 apg).

Other candidates for WNBA Players of the Week were Atlanta's Angel McCoughtry, Los Angeles' Ticha Penicheiro, Minnesota's Lindsay Whalen, New York's Cappie Pondexter, Phoenix's Penny Taylor, and Washington's Crystal Langhorne.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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  WORLD UNIVERSITY GAMES - Women  


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Taiwan3-0
2. Finland2-1
3. China1-2
4. Lithuania0-3
Group B
1. USA3-0
2. Brazil2-1
3. U.Kingdom1-2
4. Slovakia0-3
Group C
1. Russia2-0
2. Canada1-1
3. Poland0-2
Group D
1. Australia3-0
2. Sweden2-1
3. Czech Rep.1-2
4. Japan0-3


Results and Stats from Day 3 in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Finland - Lithuania 69-66
Finland posted the second win at World University Games in China. They narrowly defeated Lithuania to improve at 2-1 record in Group A. Finland will now face USA at the quarterfinal stage on Thursday. Linda-Lotta Lehtoranta knocked down 19 points to lead the charge. Lithuania suffered the third loss in a row. Lithuania opened the game on a 10:2 run but Finland managed to bounce back. They levelled things up at 16 after ten minutes. The lead changed hands throughout the second frame. Finland eventually eked out a 27:24 halftime lead. The Finnish team boosted the gap in the third quarter. They ensured a 51:43 advantage at the final break. Finland stretched the gap at 12-point mark midway through the fourth period and withheld a furious comeback effort from Lithuania to celebrate victory at the end. Krista Gross (183-G/F-90) posted 11 points and 8 rebounds, while Minna Sten (189-F-87) netted 10 points in the win. Lina Aglinskaite (182-F-87) responded with 17 points for Lithuania. Greta Sniokaite (180-G-91) produced 14 points in the loss.

China - Taiwan 70-77
Taiwan ensured the third straight win at 2011 World University Games. They shot down hosting China to clinch 3-0 record on top of Group A. Taiwan will now face Brazil in the quarterfinals on Thursday. China fell at 1-2 record in the third position in the ladder. Huang Fan-Shan (173-G-87) scored 19 points and grabbed 6 boards to lead the effort. Taiwan surged ahead from the starting moments. They established a 26:12 lead at the first break. China cut the deficit but still trailed by as many as 8 points at halftime 36:44. The hosts narrowed the deficit at 5-point mark midway through the third frame but Taiwan secured an 8-point cushion heading into the fourth quarter. The visitors enlarged the gap to 11 points in the final frame and held on to seal the win at the end. Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) notched 18 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for Taiwan. Huang Fan-Shan YingLi had 11 points in the win. Wu Siyang answered with 19 points for China. Shao Ting (183-F-89) posted 17 points and 14 rebounds in the loss.

Group B
Slovakia - Brazil 44-65
Brazil and Slovakia opened Day 3 in Shenzhen at the World University Games. The Latin American team celebrated the second 65:44 win for 2-1 record in the group. Slovakia finished it with 0-3 record on the last spot. Brazil needed a win for the Quarterfinal hope and will need USA to beat United Kingdom. Brazil started with 8:4 and had 14:12 at the end of the first frame. They held the opponents in the start of the second quarter and improved to 28:22 at the halftime. The lead continued to grow as the Latin American squad won the third and the last stanzas. After 21-15 in the third the board showed 49:37 and then Brazil added 16-7 in the last stanza. Leila Zabani (180-G/F-91) stepped up with 13 points for the winners and Nadia Calhado (196-C-89) collected 12 points and 14 rebounds. Patricia Ribeiro (178-G/F-90) and Camila Lacerda (168-G/F-89) followed them with 8 points apiece. Diana Benuskova (167-PG-89) and Katarina Pindrochova (183-F-88) delivered 9 pojnts each in the losing effort.

USA - United Kingdom 85-33
USA registered the third straight win at 2011 World University Games in China. They overwhelmed Great Britain in Group B. USA thus clinched the top position in group standings. Skylar Diggins knocked down 13 points and made 6 steals to pace the USA. Great Britain fell at 1-2 record in the loss. USA started the game strongly. They registered a 23:11 lead at the first break. USA opened the second term on a 15:4 run to boost the margin. They registered a 53:17 halftime lead. The North American team maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They ensured a comfortable 67:24 lead heading into the fourth quarter. USA did not loosen the grasp in the final quarter and stormed to the victory at the end. Nnemkadi Ogwumike (187-F-90) added 12 points, while Elena Delle Donne (195-G/F-89) had 10 points in the victory. Aderonke Oyefuwa (197-C-89) answered with 9 points for Great Britain. Dominique Allen (187-C-89, college: ORU) and Rose Anderson finished with 6 points each in the loss.

Group C
Russia - Poland 53-45
Russia celebrated the second straight win at World University Games. Natalia Myasoedova scored 11 points to lead Russia past Poland. The winners clinched the top position in Group C. They will now face Sweden in the quarterfinals. Poland fell at 0-2 record in the loss. Russia limited their opponents to just 7 points in the starting quarter. They posted a 14:7 lead at the first break. Poland cut the deficit at just four points 25:29 at halftime. Poland got even closer in the third quarter. They narrowed the margin to just a single point 36:37 at the final break. Poland surged ahead midway through the fourth frame but could not capitalize. Russia pulled back in charge late in regulation and sealed the victory at the end. Maria Cherepanova (187-C-87) posted 10 points and 11 rebounds for Russia. Claudia Trebicka (175-G/F-90) and Agnieszka Skobel replied with 11 points apiece for Poland. Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk provided 9 points in the losing effort.

Group D
Japan - Sweden 73-108
The Swedish Women's University basketball team has trounced Japan in their third game of the 2011 Summer Universiade, running away with the 108:73 victory in Shenzhen. Japan opened the game better but failed immediately in the first period. Sweden was unrelenting, dominating the game from the get-go, taking a 29:23 quarter time lead, thanks to the combined efforts of the team game. Another 28-13 in the second period brought them 57:36 at the halftime. Japan had the third quarter as the most productive as they managed to tie the quarter at 23-23. Sweden won the last stanza 28-14 and scored three digit number in the game. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) paced all the winners with 24 points and Kalis Loyd (185-G-89) collected 21 points and 12 boards. Egnell Elisabeth notched 15, while Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) and Halvarsson Louice posted 14 each. Sato Azusa replied with 19 points, while Mio Shinozaki (166-PG-91) added 16.

Australia - Czech Republic 85-68
Australia posted the third straight win at World University Games. They held off Czech Republic to clinch top spot in Group D. Abby Bishop (189-C-88) delivered 25 points and 9 rebounds to pace the winners. Czech Republic fell at 1-2 record after the loss. Australia knocked down 25 points in the opening term to secure an 8-point lead. The Aussies stretched the margin in the second quarter. They registered a 51:33 halftime advantage. Czech Republic opened the second half on a 9:2 run to narrow the deficit. The European side narrowed the gap to 8 points at the final break 53:61. But Australia quickly cleared off to a double-digit advantage in the fourth frame and never looked back en route to the victory. Katie Rae Ebzery and Elyse Penaluna (193-C-88) finished with 11 points apiece in the win. Romana Hejdova (183-F-88) responded with 19 points and 11 rebounds for Czech Republic. Kamila Stepanova (192-C-88) netted 15 points in the loss.