EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/19/2011

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ABA   


New coach announced by Carolina Cougars - by Gianni Pascucci
The ABA Rocky Mount Carolina Cougars have hired a new coach. He is Eric Vaughn , a.k.a. The Geeker, who hails from Clarksdale, Mississippi, where his friends called him Howard Cosell as a child. Eric attended Michigan Christian College, a small school where he led the basketball team to a national championship. He was named M.V.P. and 1st Team All-American and went on to attend Indiana University/Purdue at Fort Wayne (IPFW), where he holds the single season record for Free Throw percentage. After attending IPFW, Vaughn started a coaching career and first job was as assistant coach at Indiana Institute of Technology for 3 years. Then, he coached in CBA, ah High School level and did color commentary for the National Basketball Association (NBA) D-League team, the Fort Wayne Mad Ants.
According to Tommy Stevenson, President of Basketball Operations of the Cougars, 'Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position. He has coached at all levels of basketball from AAU to professional and has been successful at each stop. We look for that trend to continue with the Cougars in an area starving for some positive family friendly, fast paced, exciting entertainment.'

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Interview: Vedran Bosnic - coach of the year in Sweden - by Sead Buljina
- How do you feel as the receipient of the best coach award in Sweden?

I would lie if I said that it does not flatter me. However, what makes me really happy is the way my team played last season. I am happy with individual development of all my players who accepted hard work and always gave maximum. Thus, we achieved good results past season. The award is just an encouragement for us to work even harder and achieve even better results.

-You have a lot of international experience since you played in 9 different countries. How much has your playing experience helped you in your coaching career?

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

- What is the difference between Swedish and basketball in other European countries?

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

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

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

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

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



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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Mozambique.1-0
2. Nigeria1-0
3. Madagascar.0-1
4. Mali0-1
Group B
1. Senegal1-0
2. Angola1-0
3. Chad0-1
4. Morocco0-1
Group C
1. Cameroon1-0
2. Ivory Coas.1-0
3. S.Africa0-1
4. Egypt0-1
Group D
1. C.Africa1-0
2. Tunisia1-0
3. Rwanda0-1
4. Togo0-1


26th Afrobasket: Mobile Tunisia down Togo 103-56 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Tunisia make mince meat of Togo in its group-D opening game Thursday at the Day-2 of the 26th edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket with a 103-56 points victory.

The 2009 third place finisher showed its determination to be counted among Africa basketball power-house from the jump-ball winning in all four quarters by 28-11, 30-16, 25-13 and 20-16 to put paid to the ambition of the Togolese side of creating an upset.

Tunisia Macram Ben Romdhave led his team with 20 points 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and one block-shot, Mourad El-Mabrouk added 12 points while Salah Mijri contributed 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 block.

Togo shooting guard, Jimmy Williams led the floor with 25 points but the effort was not good enough to see his side go down by 47 points.


Rwanda National Team Roster 2011 - by Kristian Santiago
These 12 players are competing in Madagascar:

4 Aboubakar Barame (181-G-84)
5 Aristide Mugabe (88)
6 Jean Habineza
7 Ellis Kayijuka (186-G-81, college: Robert Morris)
8 Brad Cameron (193-G)
9 Olivier Muhizi (88)
10 Hamza Ruhezamihigo (191-G-85)
11 Robert Thomson (208-C-82, college: Fairfield)
12 Kenny Wilson (193-G-84, college: Boise St.)
13 Serge Kabange (F/C-83)
14 Matt Miller (182-G-82, college: Bellarmine)
15 Daniel Rugamba (87)

Coach: Veceslav Kavedzija


26th Afrobasket: Central Africa decision Rwanda 89-61 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Central Africa Republic Thursday handed down an 89-61 points defeat to Rwanda in a group-D preliminary round of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

The Central African side who was without Roman Sato won the first three quarters by 26-11, 26-20 and 21-14 points but shared the last quarter by 16 points apiece with Rwanda controlled the game from the jump-ball to the buzzer thus opening a group leadership race with Tunisia who earlier in the day defeated Togo by 103-56 points.

Central Africa James Mays led the floor with 24 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assist, Regis Koundia recorded 13 points and 5 rebounds while the duo of Lionel Bomayako and Max Martial Kounguere added 12 points and 10 points 5 rebounds and 2 steals for their side victory.


Day One in Antananarivo (with stats) - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Madagascar - Mozambique 67-77
Support by a large turn-out of supporters host of 26th FIBA Afria Championship for Men Madagascar failed to appreciate its supporters as it fell to more determined Mozambican side by 67-77 points in a group-A pairing. The madagascan surrender in the first and second quarters by 12-18 and 14-18 points to trail by ten points at the break 26-36 points. The Coach Angel Manzano Polo tutored however came into the third quarter with a mind-set to upturn the table against the Mozambican, their effort paid off when they won the quarter by 23-18 points to reduce the margin to just five points going into the last quarter 49-54 but determination saw the Mozambican side through as they mount ceaseless pressure on the Madagascar side forcing they to drop the last quarter by 18-23 points. Mozambique Stelio Nuaila (196-F-85) led his side with 15 points, 4 steals and 3 rebounds, David Canivete (193-F-89) and Fernando Mandlate (191-G-85) added 12 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 12 points 4 rebounds 4 steals and 2 assists for their side vital win of the opening day. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

Nigeria - Mali 84-59
Nigeria made a bold statement in group-A of the 26th edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men tagged; Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket with an 84-59 points win over Mali. The Nigerian side coached by Ayo Bakare rose from a 20-22 points deficit in the first quarter to put paid to the ambition of the Malian from the second quarter through the last winning by 18-05, 18-14 and 28-18 points. Nigeria dominated the Malian on the board with a total of 42 rebounds to Mali 23 while the Malian recorded 22 turn-over with Nigeria 16. Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) led the Nigerian challenge with 15 points and 4 rebounds, Oyedeji Olumide (208-C/F-81) showed great presence with 11 points and 8 rebounds, point guard Michael Umeh (188-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: UNLV) contributed 11 points 5 rebounds and 3 asists just as Ime Udoka added 10 points and 4 rebounds to give Nigeria a well deserved victory. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

Group C
Ivory Coast - South Africa 105-53
Cote dIvoire open its Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket campaign with a 105-53 points win over South Africa in group-C opener. The 2009 edition runner-up won three of the four quarters by 27-08, 33-10, 29-19 while it drew level with the South African in the last quarter by 16 points apiece for a cumulative scoreline of 105-53 points to send a warning that its 2009 second placement was not a fluke. Cote dIvoire energetic shooting guard/small forward Guy Edi (196-G/F-88) was the star-man of the Ivorian side netting 19 points points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists, Mamadi Diane (196-G/F-86, college: Virginia) added 17 points, 4 rebounds amd 2 steal, Didier Eric Tape had 14 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds while Errick Craven (188-G-83, college: USC) contributed 10 points and 3 steals for the Mdagascar 2011 Afrobasket opening game win for Cote dIvoire. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

Cameroon - Egypt 96-81
Indomitable Lions of Cameroon Wednesday night stopped the foray of five-time African cup of Nations champion, Egypt with a 96-81 points victory in its group-C opening game. Cameroon took the first two quarters in grand style by 27-11 and 25-24 points to take a 52-35 points lead at half-time, though the Lazarus Adingono coached Lions gave up the third quarter by 24-28 points but rose to the challenge in the last quarter making a loud statement in a group that conprises 2009 eunner-up, Cote dIvoire winning by a slim margin of 20-18 points for a final score-line of 96-81 points. Cameroon Parfait Bitee (188-G-85) recorded a championship high of 29 points, 7 assists and 3 rebounds, he was joined by teammates Cyrille Makanda (195-G-80) with 18 points and 4 steals, Franck Ndongo (198-F-88) 15 points and 3 rebounds and Gaston Essengue (203-F-83, college: UNLV) 12 points and 5 rebounds. Lions coach, Adingono declared after the game that the best is yet to be seen of his side, Yes we won confortably against Egypt but I want to assure our fans and lovers of the game across Africa that the best is yet to be seen of the Cameroon side. The Olympic slot is our target and we are determined to fight for it, the Cameroon coach concluded. *By Olusegun Ikuesan



Central African Republic National Team Roster 2011 - by Kristian Santiago
This si the team going against Rwanda today:

Michael Mokongo (180-PG-86)
Neil Wilfried Londoumon (190-F-93)
Antonio Kouloumba (182-PG)
Guy Joseph Kodjo-Sitchi (191-F-85)
Yannick Zachee (194-F-86)
Max Kouguere (198-F-87)
Lionel Bomayako (196-G-78, agency: Court Side, college: Fairleigh Dickinson)
Regis Koundjia-Sindo (203-F-83, college: George Washington)
William Kossangue-Toro (198-F-86)
Jimmy Djimrabaye (203-F-92)
James Mays (206-F-86, college: Clemson)
Maxime Zianveni (198-F-79)
Lionel Pehoua (196-F-82)



26th Afrobasket: Morocco bow to determined Senegal 65-79 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
With defeat steering them in the face Senegal rose to the challenege to subdue Morocco in the last quarter of its group-D tie of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men.

The high tempo game began with both side matching each other wit for wit as the first quarter ended 18 points apiece but it was Morocco who took the initiative in the second quarter with a 25-11 points win to go into the break with a 43-29 points lead.

Moroccos effort at sustaining the tempo was meet with stiff opposition from the Senegalese who knows the importance of winning a first group game, Morocco lost the quarter by 11-24 points as Senegal narrow the margin to just one point going into the last quarter.

The strong determination of the Senegalese side coached by Alain Weisz came to the fore when El-Hadji Ndoye took a three pointer in the opening seconds of the last quarter to put the Lions ahead for the first time in the game, the lead was all they needed as motivation as they never looked back through the buzzer claiming the quarter by 11-26 points for a final score-line of 65-79 points.

Ndoye led the floor with 23 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists, Mouhammad Faye added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists with Malick Badiane grabbing a double double of 14 points and 11 rebounds.
Maleye NDoye (203-F-80, college: Furman)

Togo National Team Roster 2011 - by Kristian Santiago
This is the suqad of coach Guy Arnaud playing against Tunisia:

4 Rachid Souleymana
5 Bouatiganle Damtare (83)
6 Yao Midodji (87)
7 Sarahbil Boucari (188-G-85, agency: Court Side)
8 Comlan Pinheiro (81)
9 Komi Ayayi (86)
10 Messan Doe-Bruce (86)
11 Komi Kouigan (84)
12 Jimmy Williams (196-G-86, college: Alders.-Broad.)
13 Hassane Fofana (208-C-83, agency: Promotex)
14 Fofana Saibou (86)
15 Mouctar Diaby (206-C-85, college: McMaster)


Tunisia National Team Roster 2011 - by Kristian Santiago
This guys are currently into action against Togo:

4 Radhouane Slimane (205-C-80)
5 Marouan Laghnej (190-G-86)
6 Amine Maghrebi (192-G/F-84)
7 Mourad El Mabrouk (190-G-86)
8 Marouana Kechrid (178-PG-81)
9 Mohamed Hadidane (206-F-86)<
10 Lassaad Chouaya
11 Mohamed Ghyaza (204-C-86)
12 Macram Romdhane (198-F-89)
13 Amine Rzig (199-G-80)
14 Zied Toumi (186-PG-85)
15 Salah Mejri (216-C-86)

Coach: Adel Tlatli



26th Afrobasket: Angola romp past Chad 115-56 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Defending champion of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men Angola opened its title defense with a clinical finish over Tchad in its group-B opening game Thursday night.

The Ten-time champion won in all four quarters by 35-17, 33-07, 21-13 and 26-19 points for a cumulative score-line of 115-56 points to announce its preparedness to defend the title it has held ten times in the last eleven championship in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Angolan Carlos Morais led in scoring with 25 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals, reigning most valuable player Joaquim Gomes had 15 points and 7 rebounds just as the duo of Simao Santos and Milton Barros contributed 12 points each

Action continue Friday with games in group-A and group-C


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  ALBANIA   


Albanian National Team 2011 - by Greg
Starting five
#s#
Red Vogli
Vogli
Franko Bushati
Bushati
Ermal Kuqo
Kuqo
Gerti Shima
Shima
Eni Cuka
Cuka
#e#5
5 Red Vogli 195-G-87 Studenti Albania
6 Vildan Mitku 200-F-83 Bonn-MTuS Germany
7 Franko Bushati 188-G-85 Centrale Latte Italy
8 Marsel Aliaj 198-F-88 Teuta Durres Albania
9 Eni Llazani 186-G-89 U.A.T. Albania
11 Genti Lasku 194-G-85 Studenti Albania
12 Ermal Kuqo 208-C-80 Anadolu Efes Turkey
14 Algert Gjonaj 200-F-87 SK Tirana Albania
15 Gerti Shima 205-F/C-86 SK Tirana Albania
20 Marlin Sukaj 202-C-83 U.A.T. Albania
23 Eni Cuka 188-G-86 N.Florida USA
31 Juxhin Talelli 194-G-86 SK Tirana Albania



Romania escaped a narrow win over Albania - by Eurobasket News
Romania-Albania 79:78

Romania escaped a 79:78 narrow win over Albania at the European Championship in Division B. The home side grabbed the valuable victory in Bucharest and improved to 4-2 record.
Franko Bushati (188-G-85) and Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) exchanged the early baskets in the game and Tudor nailed three for 13:10. Eni Cuka (188-G-86) closed the period at 20:16, while Andrei Capusan (201-F-83, agency: Court Side, college: Lafayette) scored for 31:23. Eni Cuka reduced later for 37:35 and Kuqo tied the game at 39:39. Andrei Capusan made two free throws at the end of the half for 41:39 for the home side. Romania improved to 5 more points entering the last period after 23-18 in the third quarter. Aliaj however gave the guests 70:69 lead and Kuqo scored for 78:77. Only two free throws from Andrei Capusan brought the victory for Romania.
Andrei Capusan paced all the winners with 18 points, while Mihail-Octavian Paul (192-G-82) and Ionut Dragusin netted 12 each. Mihai Silvasan (200-F-85, agency: Court Side) followed them with 10 points each. Franko Bushati replied with 24 points in the losing effort as Albania fell at 0-7 record. Kuqo netted 20, whilst Eni Cuka delivered 12.

Romania: Andrei Capusan 18, Mihail-Octavian Paul 12, Ionut Dragusin 12, Mihai Silvasan 10
Albania: Franko Bushati 24, Kuqo 20, Eni Cuka 12


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  ANGOLA   


26th Afrobasket: Angola romp past Chad 115-56 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Defending champion of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men Angola opened its title defense with a clinical finish over Tchad in its group-B opening game Thursday night.

The Ten-time champion won in all four quarters by 35-17, 33-07, 21-13 and 26-19 points for a cumulative score-line of 115-56 points to announce its preparedness to defend the title it has held ten times in the last eleven championship in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Angolan Carlos Morais led in scoring with 25 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals, reigning most valuable player Joaquim Gomes had 15 points and 7 rebounds just as the duo of Simao Santos and Milton Barros contributed 12 points each

Action continue Friday with games in group-A and group-C


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  AUSTRALIA   


Australia hand first loss to Croatia in London - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Croatia 78:66

Australia registered the second win at the London Invitational Tournament. The Boomers held off previously undefeated Croatia to catch up with their opponents at 2-1 record. Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) scored 22 points to pace the Aussies.
Croatia got to a perfect start. They held Australia to just 9 points in the opening frame to post a 5-point lead. But the Boomers turned things around in the second frame. Australia outscored their opponents 22:5 to gain a 31:19 halftime lead. Australia ensured a 40:19 advantage midway through the third period. Croatia exploded with a barrage of three-pointers to cut the distance to 10 points with ten minutes remaining 44:54. However Brad Newley (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) notched 11 points in the fourth frame as the Boomers cruised to the victory at the end. Brad Newley and Matthew Dellavedova (193-G-90) delivered 11 points each for the winners. Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) responded with 18 points for Croatia. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, college: S.Idaho JC) had 15 points, 5 boards and 5 assists in the loss.

Australia: Patrick Mills 22, Brad Newley 11, Matthew Dellavedova 11
Croatia: Luka Zoric 18, Marko Popovic 15


France prevail against Australia in London - by Eurobasket News
France - Australia 71:67

France registered the second straight win at the London Invitational Tournament. They overcame Australia for 2-0 record. Tony Parker (183-PG-80) scored 27 points to lead Les Bleus. Australia fell at 1-1 record after the loss.
France limited their opponents to just 11 points in the opening frame to take a 4-point lead. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the second term as France earned just a five-point lead at halftime 37:32. Les Bleus used a 9:0 run midway through the third term to clear off to a 46:34 distance. Australia trimmed the deficit to 7 points at the final intermission 49:56. Dellavedova and Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) cut the distance to a single point in the fourth quarter. However Pietrus, Noah and Tony Parker quickly regained a 7-point buffer for France. The Boomers did not surrender and got within a single point 67:68 with 11 seconds remaining. Tony Parker stepped up Les Bleus in the dying seconds converting three free throws and sealing the victory at the end. Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) had 16 points and 6 rebounds, while Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) contributed 10 points in the win. Patrick Mills replied with 20 points for Australia. Brad Newley (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) finished with 11 points in the loss.

France: Tony Parker 27, Nicolas Batum 16, Boris Diaw 10
Australia: Patrick Mills 20, Brad Newley 11


2011 Universiade. Turkey stun Australia - by Eurobasket News
Turkey - Australia 82:74

Turkey registered the second win at World University Games. They overcame Australia leaving those with no chance of qualifying into the quarterfinals. Both teams are now tied at 2-2 record in Group B. Ibrahim Yildirim (190-G-90) came up with 22 points to pace the winners.
Australia posted a narrow 20:19 lead ten minutes into the game. They maintained the advantage for some time in the second quarter but Turkey surged ahead late in the first half. They rallied to a 42:33 halftime advantage. Turkey stayed confident throughout the third frame posting a 60:53 lead with ten minutes to go. They stretched the margin in the fourth frame and shielded off the lead till the final buzzer. Can Ozcan (202-F-89) posted 16 points, wjhile Melih Mahmutoglu (193-G-90) and Birkan Batuk (198-F-90) notched 10 points each in the victory. Triantafillos Iliadis (190-G-89) and Ryan Broekhoff (198-F/G-90) responded with 16 points apiece for Australia. Corey Maynard (190-G-91) netted 14 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in the loss.

Turkey: Ibrahim Yildirim 22, Can Ozcan 16, Melih Mahmutoglu 10, Birkan Batuk 10
Australia: Triantafillos Iliadis 16, Ryan Broekhoff 16, Corey Maynard 14


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  AUSTRIA   


Oberwart Gunners lands Drake Reed - by Greg
Oberwart Gunners added to their roster 24-year old American forward Drake Reed (196-F-87, college: Austin Peay St.). Reed has graduated from Austin Peay State University in 2009. In his last season he averaged 21.9ppg, 7.5rpg, 2.4apg and was also picked to the NABC Division I All-District 19 First Team. Then he started his professional basketball career in Australia. Playing for Ballarat Miners his stats were: 21.4ppg and 8.7rpg. Last season Drake played at ALM Evreux Basket (France). While playing 26 games he averaged 14.2ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.0apg and 1.3spg.

BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers sign Jeff Robinson - by Greg
BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers signed American forward Jeff Robinson (198-F, college: Seton Hall) who decided to start his proffesional career in Europe. Robinson has just graduated from Seton Hall University. While playing 31 games last season he averaged 12.1ppg and 6.4rpg.

Austria lost to Estonia at Eurobasket Division B in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
Estonia-Austria 73:56

Austria lost to Estonia at Eurobasket Division B in Tallinn. The home side celebrated 73:56 victory in the capital and improved to 2-2 record. Estonians revenged for an unexpected 90:93 loss in Vienna a year ago.
Rain Veideman (192-G-91) came in and made 7 point in a row, putting Estonia ahead 18:9. Kristo Saage added a three-pointer to close the 1st quarter 21:9. The lead was 25:9 in 12th minute, already, but then the game became even as both teams struggled in offence in 2nd and 3rd quarter. The hosts could not stop Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) under the basket as the youngster had 9 rebounds in first half, already. Janar Talts (206-C-83) made his 4th foul in 22nd minute of the game, making the task against Rasid Mahalbasic even more difficult. Still Estonia won the first half 33:22 and led 55:43 with a quarter to play. Dorbek nailed three for 58:44 and Kristjan Kangur (202-F-82) scored for 65:46. After 18-13 in the quarter the hosts won the game.
Janar Talts stepped up with 15 points, while Rain Veideman nailed 14. Kristjan Kangur collected 10 points and 8rebounds, while Kristo Saage (184-G-85) added 9. Rasid Mahalbasic ended up with 19 points and 19 rebounds in defeat. Jason Detrick (198-G-80, college: Oklahoma) posted 10, while Anton Maresch (192-G-91) netted 9.

Estonia: Janar Talts 15, Rain Veideman 14, Kristjan Kangur 10+8rebs, Kristo Saage 9
Austria: Rasid Mahalbasic 19+19, Jason Detrick 10, Anton Maresch 9


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  AZERBAIJAN   


Belarus outplayed Azerbaijan in Minsk - by Eurobasket News
Belarus- Azerbaijan 87:74

Belarus outplayed Azerbaijan at the European Championship in Division B. The team won over the opponents 87:74 in Minsk.
Trastsinetski opened the game with a three-pointer and Charykau scored for 9:4. Korzh closed the period also from the perimeter for 29:23. Aliakseyeu increased the lead for the hosts to 35:25 and later Belarus erupted with 16-0 run for 47:25. Bakhshiyev was the last to score in the half at 50:31. Azerbaijan looked great in the third period and after 23-12 reduced to 62:54. The hosts however did not allow them to catch up and won the game.
Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) led the way with 17 points, while Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) and Mikita Meshcharakou (202-F-88) scored 14 points each. Aliakseyeu followed them with 12 points in a win. Spencer Nelson (203-F-80, college: Utah St.) replied with 22 points and 11 boards, while Aleksandr Rindin (225-C-85, agency: Interperformances) collected 19 points and 10 rebounds.

Belarus: Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 17, Artsiom Parakhouski 14, Mikita Meshcharakou 14, Aliakseyeu 12
Azerbaijan: Spencer Nelson 22+11 rebs, Aleksandr Rindin 19+10 rebs, Rasim Bashak (202-F-80, agency: Court Side) 13


Azerbaijan National Team 2011 - by Greg
Starting five
#s#
Zaur Pashayev
Pashayev
Fuad Niftaliyev
Niftaliyev
Aleksandr Rindin
Rindin
Rasim Bashak
Bashak
Spencer Nelson
Nelson
#e#5
4 Renat Urazayev 188-PG-94
5 Amil Hamzayev 200-C-90 Gala BC Azerbaijan
6 Zaur Pashayev 186-G-83 NTD Tbilisi Georgia
7 Anar Sariyev 193-G/F-81 Araz-NDT Azerbaijan
8 Fuad Niftaliyev 183-G-80 Gala BC Azerbaijan
9 Aleksandr Rindin 225-C-85 Genc Telekom Turkey
10 Anar Hajiyev 198-F-88 Araz-NDT Azerbaijan
11 Rasim Bashak 202-F-80 Antalya Turkey
12 Bakhtiyar Alakbarov 206-C-92
13 Aleksey Kitayev 197-F/G-84 Gala BC Azerbaijan
14 Spencer Nelson 203-F-80 Gran Canaria Spain
15 Tahir Bakhshiyev 200-F-82 Araz-NDT Azerbaijan



*****************************************************
  BALKAN LEAGUE   


From France to Israel - Joseph Jones joins Galil/Gilboa - by David Pick
Posted: August 18, 2011, 12:37 PM

Israeli finalist Galil/Gilboa seems to be finalizing their roster for the upcoming season. After securing team star swingman Courtney Fells for a second year, adding the recent Akron Ohio Hall of Fame big man Romeo Travis, in addition to the European rookie guard Chaisson Allen, Hapoel agreed terms with American center Joseph Jones.

A successful Texas A&M graduate got Jones a shot at a few NBA workouts with the Kings and Rockets, though he signed in Turkey for the 2008-09 season. Coming off back-to-back years in France with Le Havre recording averages of 12.5ppg, 7.7rpg and 1.3apg, the 25-year-old Jones also had eight double-doubles during the season, bringing depth and size to the northern Israeli's team roster.

Galil/Gilboa and second division's Hapoel Tel-Aviv officially joined the Balkan League competition for the 2011-12 season.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

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  BELARUS   


Belarus outplayed Azerbaijan in Minsk - by Eurobasket News
Belarus- Azerbaijan 87:74

Belarus outplayed Azerbaijan at the European Championship in Division B. The team won over the opponents 87:74 in Minsk.
Trastsinetski opened the game with a three-pointer and Charykau scored for 9:4. Korzh closed the period also from the perimeter for 29:23. Aliakseyeu increased the lead for the hosts to 35:25 and later Belarus erupted with 16-0 run for 47:25. Bakhshiyev was the last to score in the half at 50:31. Azerbaijan looked great in the third period and after 23-12 reduced to 62:54. The hosts however did not allow them to catch up and won the game.
Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) led the way with 17 points, while Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) and Mikita Meshcharakou (202-F-88) scored 14 points each. Aliakseyeu followed them with 12 points in a win. Spencer Nelson (203-F-80, college: Utah St.) replied with 22 points and 11 boards, while Aleksandr Rindin (225-C-85, agency: Interperformances) collected 19 points and 10 rebounds.

Belarus: Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 17, Artsiom Parakhouski 14, Mikita Meshcharakou 14, Aliakseyeu 12
Azerbaijan: Spencer Nelson 22+11 rebs, Aleksandr Rindin 19+10 rebs, Rasim Bashak (202-F-80, agency: Court Side) 13


*****************************************************
  BELGIUM   


Verviers Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Another day another played signed by VOO Verviers-Pepinster, Ollie Bailey (201-F-85, college: Oklahoma City) is the final player on the Verviers roster for 2011-2012.
Bailey had a great start to his college career at Rutgers where as freshman he averaged 9.7 ppg and 4.4 rpg. That also earned him Big East all Rookie honors in 2005.
From there his playing time and stats at Rutgers went down gradually till he transferred to NAIA powerhouse Oklahoma City for his senior year. He led his team to the NAIA championship with 18.7 ppg and 8.3 rpg. That year he also earned NAIA Frist team honors and last but not least NAIA D1 Player of the Year.
His first year ouf of college (2008-2009) he played in 3 countries, starting with Uruguay (Joinville), he then went to Switserland to play for Massagno and ended up playing in the Czech Republic for Pardubice. The last 2 years he played in all kinds of South American Championships with among others Uruguay, Venezuela (Lanceros de Cojedes) and the Dominican Republic in 2011.



*****************************************************
  BOSNIA   


Igokea brings in Nenad Sulovic - by Eurobasket News
Nenad Sulovic (202-F/C-85) will continue his career in Bosnia. The 25-year-old big guy penned a deal with Igokea. Sulovic arrives to his new club from Radnicki Kragujevac, where he finished last season. He joined them in March averaging 10.4 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists for 17 games in Serbian league. They reached Semifinals. Sulovic started last season with Napredak Rubin Krusevac. He shined there with 16 ppg, 6.3 rpg and 2.5 apg for 26 games. Nenad Sulovic split 2009/10 season between Romanian Otopeni and OKK Beograd. He also played for Slovakian Komarno and Polish Polpak Swiecie in the past. Ikogea extended deal Milan Dozet last month.

KSBIH calls Ermin Jazvin, Hodzic left the NT - by Nedzad Kladusak
It seems that EC in Lithuania will be an agony experience for the BIH NT. Sabit Hadzic made some very strange decisions that lead to a massive disorder within the team.
It is hard to explain how Kikanovic after one year of absence from professional basketball gets a spot in the starting five leaving aside Ratko Varda who played in EL during the season. It can t be explained that a Milan Milosevic who didn t play basketball since October gets an invitation but Vedran Princ or Ermin Jazvin (210-C-80, agency: Alti Sport) who achieved great results have been left home. Hence it is no surprise that Adnan Hodzic (203-F-88, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Lipscomb) left the camp after not getting even a single minute to prove that he can help the team.

Only 13 days before the EC starts Harun Mahmutovic called Ermin Jazvin asking him whether he would join the NT. Ermin Jazvin proved many times that he is completely devoted to the BIH NT despite being only needed for his tough defence and his help for his guard who struggle to get rid of their defender not for his powerful post-up moves. Having seen the last appearances of the BIH NT it is exactly what the team needs but as far as Sabit Hadzic doesn t have any idea of the basketball he wants to be played and unless he frees himself of the strong ties to basketball managers surrounding the team and the puppets helping them to sell their players through NT caps it is highly doubtful whether he will risk his reputation in such a kamikaze action.

And yes why should a player like Sinanovic, Begic, Rizvic, Preldzic, Nedim Djedovic should play for a private basketball team as long as the coach and the whole staff of KSBIH don t have the same pro level they have in countries like Slovenia, Germany, Spain, Turkey?

Interview: Vedran Bosnic - coach of the year in Sweden - by Sead Buljina
- How do you feel as the receipient of the best coach award in Sweden?

I would lie if I said that it does not flatter me. However, what makes me really happy is the way my team played last season. I am happy with individual development of all my players who accepted hard work and always gave maximum. Thus, we achieved good results past season. The award is just an encouragement for us to work even harder and achieve even better results.

-You have a lot of international experience since you played in 9 different countries. How much has your playing experience helped you in your coaching career?

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

- What is the difference between Swedish and basketball in other European countries?

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

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

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

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

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



*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   


2011 Universiade. Czech Republic defeat Brazil in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Czech Republic 69:85

Czech Republic overcame Brazil on the final day of preliminary round at World University Games in Shenzhen. Petr Dokoupil (191-G-88) stepped up with 22 points to lead the European side. Both teams are now locked at 3-2 record in Group A ladder.
Czech Republic set the tone early in the game. They held Brazil to 10 points in the opening frame to post an 8-point lead 18:10. The Czech team stretched the margin to 14 points midway through the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 12 points 44:32. Brazil trimmed the deficit but still trailed by as many as 7 points at the final intermission 45:52. Czech Republic quickly boosted the gap to double figures in the fourth term and never looked back en route to the victory. Vojtech Hruban (200-F-89) accounted for 19 points, while Tomas Macela (179-G-88) finished with 13 points in the win. Ralfi Ansaloni (211-C-87) answered with 21 points for Brazil. Michael Machado (185-G-90) posted 20 points in defeat.

Brazil: Petr Dokoupil 22, Vojtech Hruban 19, Tomas Macela 13
Czech Republic: Ralfi Ansaloni 21, Michael Machado 20


Leandrinho Barbosa agreed with Flamengo and is back in Brazil - by Paulo Freire
In the biggest move of brazilian basketball so far, Leandrinho Barbosa (190-PG-82) is the further strengthening of Flamengo basketball.

In late July, the FIBA allowed players under contract with the NBA to play in any team during the lockout of the American League. When the NBA strike ends, Leandrinho Barbosa will return to play for the Toronto Raptors.

The contract has not been signed yet, but a meeting on Thursday will formalize the partnership. The deal was reached late this Wednesday. The date of the official presentation of Leandro in the club is not defined yet.

*****************************************************
  CANADA   


2011 Universiade. Canada drop Hong Kong, top Group B - by Eurobasket News
Canada - Hong Kong 83:50

Canada registered the third win at World University Games in China. They overcame Hong Kong to clinch the top position in Group B. Warren Ward (196-G-89) accounted for 17 points to lead the effort. Hong Kong suffered the fourth straight defeat at the tournament.
Honk Kong came up with arguably their best performance at the tournament when they stayed in charge against Canada in the first period. Canada eventually denied the deficit and levelled things up at 14 after ten minutes. But the North American side shook off sloppiness and erupted for an 18:4 run at the start of the second period. Canada built a 40:22 lead at the interval. They dominated in the third term recording a 60:34 advantage into the fourth period. Canada never slowed down and rolled to a confident win at the end. Jahmal Jones (183-PG-91) and Cole Hobin (198-G-89) delivered 12 points each in the victory. Mok Ka Chun (203-C-88) and Chan Yik Lun (190-G-87) answered with 8 points apiece in the loss.

Canada: Warren Ward 17, Jahmal Jones 12, Cole Hobin 12
Hong Kong: Mok Ka Chun 8, Chan Yik Lun 8


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  CENTRAL AFRICA   


26th Afrobasket: Central Africa decision Rwanda 89-61 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Central Africa Republic Thursday handed down an 89-61 points defeat to Rwanda in a group-D preliminary round of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

The Central African side who was without Roman Sato won the first three quarters by 26-11, 26-20 and 21-14 points but shared the last quarter by 16 points apiece with Rwanda controlled the game from the jump-ball to the buzzer thus opening a group leadership race with Tunisia who earlier in the day defeated Togo by 103-56 points.

Central Africa James Mays led the floor with 24 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assist, Regis Koundia recorded 13 points and 5 rebounds while the duo of Lionel Bomayako and Max Martial Kounguere added 12 points and 10 points 5 rebounds and 2 steals for their side victory.


Central African Republic National Team Roster 2011 - by Kristian Santiago
This si the team going against Rwanda today:

Michael Mokongo (180-PG-86)
Neil Wilfried Londoumon (190-F-93)
Antonio Kouloumba (182-PG)
Guy Joseph Kodjo-Sitchi (191-F-85)
Yannick Zachee (194-F-86)
Max Kouguere (198-F-87)
Lionel Bomayako (196-G-78, agency: Court Side, college: Fairleigh Dickinson)
Regis Koundjia-Sindo (203-F-83, college: George Washington)
William Kossangue-Toro (198-F-86)
Jimmy Djimrabaye (203-F-92)
James Mays (206-F-86, college: Clemson)
Maxime Zianveni (198-F-79)
Lionel Pehoua (196-F-82)



*****************************************************
  CHINA   


2011 Universiade. Germany beat China to remain undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Germany - China 75:51

Germany stayed perfect at World University Games in Shenzhen. They overwhelmed China tonight to clinch 5-0 record on top of Group A advancing into quarterfinal round. Johannes Lischka (203-F/C-87) stepped up with 15 points for Germany. China in the meantime fell at 1-4 record in the fourth place in the ladder.
China managed to pull in front and maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter. The hosts secured an 18:16 lead at the first break. But Germany opened the second term on a 10:1 run to spur in front. The visitors established a 33:28 halftime advantage. Germany capped the third term on a 12:2 run to clear off to a 21-point distance. Germany stayed comfortable in charge throughout the fourth frame and drove to the victory at the end. Jonas Wohlfarth-Bottermann (207-C-90, agency: Court Side) and Karsten Tadda (189-G-88, agency: Pro One Sports) posted 11 points apiece for the winners. Li Yuanyu (206-C-91) responded with 15 points for China. Shi Hongfei (180-PG-93) had 8 points in the losing effort.

Germany: Johannes Lischka 15, Jonas Wohlfarth-Bottermann 11, Karsten Tadda 11
China: Li Yuanyu 15, Shi Hongfei 8



China Loses to Duke 78-66 - by Arthur Volbert
Duke defeated China's youth team today 78-66. Duke led 15-10 after one quarter, 36-30 at the half and 56-47 after three quarters.

But China was always in the game whereas in previous years young China teams tended to fall apart against quality competition. I saw the game on ESPNU but do not have access to a box score. Wang Zhelin (213-C-94) was again impressive, though his free throw shooting reminds one of Shaq and Wilt even moreso than the rest of his game.

Wang is certainly more promising than Su Wei or Zhang Zhaoxu and even if he was born earlier than his listed 1994 is still impressive. Li Muhao also impressed. He is putting on some muscle and could be as good as Wang if he continues to develop. Li and Wang were able to play effectively together for stretches as center and power forward, which also augers well for the future.

Sui Ran and Meng Duo both played effectively as a guard combo. Ju Mingxin also impressed though he was more likely born in 1990 than his listed 1993. The third game between Duke and China will be broadcast at 8 am Monday August 22 on ESPNU.

In a related development, a touring Georgetown University team walked off the floor in a game against Bayi. This happened after a brawl with about 9 minutes left in the fourth quarter. The Washington Post reported that Georgetown and Bayi players tackled and threw punches at each another. Chairs and water bottles were tossed as Georgetown headed to the locker room with the score 64-all in a foul-plagued matchup.



France earn third win in London, rally past China - by Eurobasket News
France - China 76:59

France registered the third straight win at the London Invitational Tournament. Les Bleus cruised past China to stay undefeated. Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) stepped up with 15 points to lead the effort. China suffered the third loss in a row.
France stunned their opponents in the opening frame. They limited China to just 7 points in the quarter to establish a 15-point lead. China stopped the rot in the second period. They outscored France to trail by 14 points at halftime 22:36. But France took over again in the third period. Les Bleus arrived at the final intermission up by 17 points 54:37. The teams exchanged the baskets throughout the fourth frame as France kept China at distance cruising to the victory. Nando De Colo (202-G-87) and Kevin Seraphin (205-F/C-89) posted 14 points each in the win. Jianlian Yi (212-C/F-87) answered with 20 points for China. Yi Li (203-F/G-85) had 14 points in the losing effort.

France: Nicolas Batum 15, Nando De Colo 14, Kevin Seraphin 14
China: Jianlian Yi 20, Yi Li 14


China Loses to France 76-59 - by Arthur Volbert
China lost to France 76-59 in the London Basketball Invitational but, after falling behind 22-7 at the end of the first quarter, it played even with France the rest of the game.

China shot 20 for 45, which is accpeptable against a team playing with Joachim Noah, Nicholas Batum, Boris Diaw and Kevin Seraphin. It was even in turnovers 17-17. But it only pulled down 20 rebounds to 43 for France. China trailed 22-7 after one quarter, 36-22 at the half and 54-37 after three quarters.

Jianlian Yi (212-C/F-87) led China with 20 points on 7 of 13 shooting and 5 rebounds. Yi Li scored 14 points on 5 of 8 shooting. Sun Yue had 9 points, hitting 3 of 5 shots. No one else scored more than 4. Zhang Bo played 37 minutes, with 2 rebounds and 2 assists, but missing all 5 shots he took. Zhu Fangyu played 6 minutes and Wang Zhizhi played 4, indicating both would be recovered from their current injuries by the Asian Championship.

Batum led France with 15 points and Seraphin had 14. Nando De Colo had 14 points and 7 rebounds. Noah had 7 points and 9 rebounds.

Link to box score:
http://london2012.fiba.com//pages/eng/fe/12/olym/p/eid/6232/gid/7/grid/A/rid/8549/sid/6232/game.html

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


Australia hand first loss to Croatia in London - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Croatia 78:66

Australia registered the second win at the London Invitational Tournament. The Boomers held off previously undefeated Croatia to catch up with their opponents at 2-1 record. Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) scored 22 points to pace the Aussies.
Croatia got to a perfect start. They held Australia to just 9 points in the opening frame to post a 5-point lead. But the Boomers turned things around in the second frame. Australia outscored their opponents 22:5 to gain a 31:19 halftime lead. Australia ensured a 40:19 advantage midway through the third period. Croatia exploded with a barrage of three-pointers to cut the distance to 10 points with ten minutes remaining 44:54. However Brad Newley (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) notched 11 points in the fourth frame as the Boomers cruised to the victory at the end. Brad Newley and Matthew Dellavedova (193-G-90) delivered 11 points each for the winners. Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) responded with 18 points for Croatia. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, college: S.Idaho JC) had 15 points, 5 boards and 5 assists in the loss.

Australia: Patrick Mills 22, Brad Newley 11, Matthew Dellavedova 11
Croatia: Luka Zoric 18, Marko Popovic 15


Gamma came back to Darda! - by Dani Erceg
Vrijednosnice OS Darda signed Kamaldin Gamma (205-F/C-80). He started last season with Darda, played 7 games averaging 13.6ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.9spg, but in November he moved to MBK Handlova (Slovakia-Extraliga), played 11 games there averaging 9.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2apg. Few weeks ago Darda also signed Rudolf Jugo and Ivan Milenkovic.

Croatia post second straight win in London - by Eurobasket News
Croatia - Great Britain 75:70

Croatia registered the second consecutive victory at London Invitational Tournament. They fired past Great Britain behind 16 points from Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85). Great Britain suffered the second loss in a row.
The hosts got to a confident start. They posted an 18:12 lead at the first break. But Croatia turned things upside down in the second frame. They limited Great Britain to only 5 points in the quarter building a 35:23 halftime lead. Croatia erupted for 28 points in the third frame to boost the gap at 16-point mark at the final intermission. Great Britain cut the deficit to just three points midway through the fourth frame 66:69. But Ante Tomic (217-C-87), Andic and Krunoslav Simon sealed the victory for Croatia at the end. Ante Tomic knocked down 12 points, while Marko Tomas (201-G-85) added 9 points in the victory. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) responded with 22 points and 9 rebounds for Great Britain. Andrew Lawrence (185-G-90) and Daniel Clark (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) had 10 points each in the loss.

Croatia: Krunoslav Simon 16, Ante Tomic 12, Marko Tomas 9
Great Britain: Joel Freeland 22, Andrew Lawrence 10, Daniel Clark 10


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


2011 Universiade. Czech Republic defeat Brazil in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Czech Republic 69:85

Czech Republic overcame Brazil on the final day of preliminary round at World University Games in Shenzhen. Petr Dokoupil (191-G-88) stepped up with 22 points to lead the European side. Both teams are now locked at 3-2 record in Group A ladder.
Czech Republic set the tone early in the game. They held Brazil to 10 points in the opening frame to post an 8-point lead 18:10. The Czech team stretched the margin to 14 points midway through the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 12 points 44:32. Brazil trimmed the deficit but still trailed by as many as 7 points at the final intermission 45:52. Czech Republic quickly boosted the gap to double figures in the fourth term and never looked back en route to the victory. Vojtech Hruban (200-F-89) accounted for 19 points, while Tomas Macela (179-G-88) finished with 13 points in the win. Ralfi Ansaloni (211-C-87) answered with 21 points for Brazil. Michael Machado (185-G-90) posted 20 points in defeat.

Brazil: Petr Dokoupil 22, Vojtech Hruban 19, Tomas Macela 13
Czech Republic: Ralfi Ansaloni 21, Michael Machado 20


Czech Republic won over Slovak Republic in Decin - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic Slovak Republic 76:69

Czech Republic remained undefeated at the European Championship in Division B. The team improved to 4-0 record after 76:69 win over Slovak Republic.
Slovak Republic took the early lead while Pavel Houska (201-F-84) tied the game at 7:7. Tomas Pomikalek (200-F-89) scored for 16:13 and Kotas closed the first frame from the perimeter for 23:15. Pavel Houska later brought 27:19 and Kotas added two fro 32:22. The hosts produced 21-16 in the second frame and had 44:31 halftime advantage. Nothing had changed in the third quarter as Czech Republic continued their dominance in the court. Jakub Kudlacek (193-G-90) and Vojtek exchanged the baskets late in the third for 66:49 on the board. Slovak Republic made the final push in the last stanza and after 20-10 record to 7 points at the end.
Lubos Barton (202-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso) stepped up with 13 points for the winners and Jakub Kudlacek netted 12. Pavel Houska delivered 11, while Tomas Pomikalek posted 10. Dusan Pandula (196-F-84) ended up with 13 points, whilst Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports), Roman Marko (195-G-86) and Peter Sedmak (203-C-85) netted 12 apiece.

Czech Republic: Lubos Barton 13, Jakub Kudlacek 12, Pavel Houska 11, Tomas Pomikalek 10
Slovak Republic: Dusan Pandula 13, Anton Gavel 12, Roman Marko 12, Peter Sedmak 12


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Dominican Republic Sweeps The UK Pros 91-86 - by Basket Dominicano
John Calipari seems to be the master coach. He had his Dominican Republic team ready both nights.

At the YUM! Center in Louisville Tuesday night, the Dominicans completed the sweep of the Kentucky Pros with a 91-86 win.

After trailing by 13 points at the half, the Pros cut the lead to one with just three minutes to go, but that was against the Dominican Republic's second stringers.

John Wall (193-PG-90) led the Pros with 26 points, but had a poor shooting night. In fact, the whole team did. The Pros went 1-19 from the three point line.

'In the middle of August, over 40,000 people came and watched basketball over two nights. Only the University of Kentucky could do that,' said Calipari after the game.

*****************************************************
  ECUADOR   


Broken Rims & Good Food! - by Bayo Arigbon
Whats up yall? This is my 2nd entry Bayo Arigbon from the wonderful country of ECUADOR. So far Ive played in 3 games. I know I know your probably thinking How can you play in of a game? Well in the last game in the 3rd quarter, it was postponed! A powerful jam by Quentin Smith (205-C-77, college: Mississippi St.) broke the rim and that was all she wrote! Lol (The Dunk is in this weeks blog video so check it out!) (www.hoopdreamdiaries.tumblr.com) So this week I wanted to focus on the wonder food that Ecuador has to offer. Although I havent tried everything, Ive ventured out and tried a few new things, but in the video I just wanted to show what the Norm is for Ecuadorian food. As far as Basketball I can say that God has allowed me to excel here and Im very thankful for that opportunity. I was recently alerted that I was the leading scorer thus far (4 games) in Ecuadors FEB league. I am so thankful but at the same time, its only the beginning and lots of season left to go. Im also pleased to Marcus Sikes (203-F-84, college: Cincinnati) and I are starting to establish chemistry with each other, and our teammates, and that always makes things easier. Thats it for now make sure u check out my blog site and ill holla at yall in a week or so.

link to only video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWcf3ZOOF4E

*****************************************************
  EGYPT   


Cameroon defeats Egypt in Antananarivo, 96-81 - by Eurobasket News
Cameroon - Egypt 96-81
Indomitable Lions of Cameroon Wednesday night stopped the foray of five-time African cup of Nations champion, Egypt with a 96-81 points victory in its group-C opening game. Cameroon took the first two quarters in grand style by 27-11 and 25-24 points to take a 52-35 points lead at half-time, though the Lazarus Adingono coached Lions gave up the third quarter by 24-28 points but rose to the challenge in the last quarter making a loud statement in a group that conprises 2009 eunner-up, Cote dIvoire winning by a slim margin of 20-18 points for a final score-line of 96-81 points. Cameroon Parfait Bitee (188-G-85) recorded a championship high of 29 points, 7 assists and 3 rebounds, he was joined by teammates Cyrille Makanda (195-G-80) with 18 points and 4 steals, Franck Ndongo (198-F-88) 15 points and 3 rebounds and Gaston Essengue (203-F-83, college: UNLV) 12 points and 5 rebounds. Lions coach, Adingono declared after the game that the best is yet to be seen of his side, Yes we won confortably against Egypt but I want to assure our fans and lovers of the game across Africa that the best is yet to be seen of the Cameroon side. The Olympic slot is our target and we are determined to fight for it, the Cameroon coach concluded. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

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


Division B: Estonia - Austria 73:56 - by Janar
Estonia started the 2nd round of Eurobasket Division B group games with a firm 73:56 victory against Austria and moved to the 2nd place in Group A with 2 wins in 4 games. Estonians revenged for an unexpected 90:93 loss in Vienna a year ago.
In Saku Suurhall, Tallinn, Estonian team never trailed. The guests missed first 8 shots and made 3 turnovers in six minutes, allowing the hosts move up 9:4. After 2+1 by Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90), Rain Veideman (192-G-91) came in and made 7 point in a row, putting Estonia ahead 18:9. Kristo Saade added a three-pointer to close the 1st quarter 21:9. The lead was 25:9 in 12th minute, already, but then the game became even as both teams struggled in offence in 2nd and 3rd quarter. The hosts could not stop Rasid Mahalbasic under the basket as the youngster had 9 rebounds in first half, already. Janar Talts (206-C-83) made his 4th foul in 22nd minute of the game, making the task against Rasid Mahalbasic even more difficult. Still Estonia won the first half 33:22 and led 55:43 with a quarter to play.
In the last quarter the picture became clear since the 4th minute. Janar Talts' 2+1 started Estonians decisive 12:4 run and with 1:31 to play, it was 70:50.

The scorers
Estonia: Janar Talts 15, Rain Veideman 14, Kangur 10+8rb, Saage 9, Arbet 8, Toome6, Dorbek 6
Austria (FG 32%): Rasid Mahalbasic 19+19, Detrick 10 (fg 2/14), Maresch 9

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


Buducnost locks Vladimir Mihailovic until 2014 - by Eurobasket News
Buducnost announced signing of a three-year contract extension with Vladimir Mihailovic (193-G-90). It means that the promising guard will stay with the Montenegrin powerhouse until the end of the 2013/14 season. Mihailovic joined Buducnost last year from Mornar Bar. He appeared 23 times in Adriatic league averaging 5.6 points and 1.4 rebounds. Mihailovic also added 2.5 ppg for two games in Euroleague Qualifying Round. Before Buducnost, he played several years for Mornar Bar. Vladimir Mihailovic is active member of the Montenegrin National Team. He appeared 7 times for them in Qualifications to European Championships 2011 averaging less than point. Mihailovic played for U20 and U18 Montenegro in the past. Last summer he was one of the best players at the European Championships U20 in Croatia. He shined with 16.9 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.6 apg for 9 games at this event.

Maccabi T.A. Will Play In French Tournament - by David Pick
Posted: August 18, 2011, 16:01 PM

Euroleague finalist and Israeli champion Maccabi Tel-Aviv will travel to France come September 18th 23rd, in order to participate in an exhibition tournament for the upcoming season, where Head Coach David Blatt will get a chance to mesh and gel his guys together for an hectic three league season.

Participating teams other then M.T.A all come from the French top 'ProA' league, including ASVEL, Le Mans, Gravelines and Cholet Basket.

The French media networks have already begun it's hype around the leading Israeli organization, marketing the tourney by using Maccabi's newly acquired stars including two-time NBA champion guard Jordan Farmar, European legend Thodoros Papaloukas and even the first Israeli to ever play in the NBA but has yet to sign an official contract with Maccabi, Omri Casspi.

ASVEL has also made an NBA recruit during the summer, adding American power forward Hilton Armstrong, coming from the Atlanta Hawks. Former Hapoel Jerusalem small forward Dijon Thompson is familiar with M.T.A from his days in Israel and also joined ASVEL, will be playing in the tourney.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd



*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Standings Div.B (Men)
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Holland3-0
2. Austria2-2
3. Estonia2-2
4. Luxembourg.0-3
Group B
1. Sweden5-1
2. Azerbaijan.4-2
3. Romania4-2
4. Belarus3-4
5. Albania0-7
Group C
1. Czech Rep.4-0
2. Slovakia2-2
3. Switzerlan.1-2
4. Cyprus0-3


Standings Div.A (Men)
Standings
Group A
1. U.Kingdom0-0
2. Spain0-0
3. Lithuania0-0
4. Poland0-0
5. Turkey0-0
Group B
1. France0-0
2. Germany0-0
3. Israel0-0
4. Italy0-0
5. Latvia0-0
6. Serbia0-0
Group C
1. Bosnia0-0
2. Croatia0-0
3. Greece0-0
4. FYR Macedo.0-0
5. Montenegro.0-0
Group D
1. Belgium0-0
2. Bulgaria0-0
3. Georgia0-0
4. Russia0-0
5. Slovenia0-0
6. Ukraine0-0
Group Qualification
1. Finland2-0
2. Portugal2-1
3. Hungary0-3


Adnan Hodzic leaves Bosnian National Team - by Eurobasket News
Adnan Hodzic (203-F-88, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Lipscomb) will skip the upcoming EuroBasket in Poland. The Bosnian big guy left National Team camp to join preparations of his German team Walter Tigers Tuebingen. He is the second center who left Bosnian NT in just few days. Ratko Varda decided to leave last week.
Adnan Hodzic is a product of the David Lipscomb University, where he graduated few months ago. He appeared 30 times for his school as a senior averaging 17.7 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1 assist. Hodzic had even better season as a junior. At that time he registered 22.7 ppg and 9.1 rpg for 30 games. This summer Adnan Hodzic penned a one-year deal with Walter Tigers Tuebingen. It will be his first season as a pro.

Miha Zupan to miss EuroBasket in Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Bad news for the Slovenian National Team. Miha Zupan (205-F/C-82) still struggles with back injury and he will have to receive treatment which will keep him out of the court between 2-3 weeks. Thus coach Bodizar Maljkovic will not be able to count on him in Lithuania. Miha Zupan is active member of the Slovenian National team since 2006. At the latest World Championship in Turkey he had 6.2 ppg and 3.1 rpg for 9 games. Miha Zupan spent last season with Spartak St.Petersburg and he will play there in 2011/12 as well. He appeared 32 times in Russian league averaging 8.6 points and 4.2 rebounds. In EuroChallenge, Zupan added 9.7 ppg and 4.9 rpg for 15 games. Before Spartak, he spent one year with Greek Trikalla. There Zupan had 13.6 ppg and 5.1 rpg in 24 games. In Slovenia, Miha Zupan played for Union Olimpija and Geoplin Slovan.

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


2011 Universiade. Finland top Mexico, enter quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
Finland - Mexico 73:62

Finland advanced into the World University Games quarterfinals. They held off Mexico in the crucial encounter in Group D to clinch the second position. Antti Kanervo (193-G/F-89) stepped up with 20 points to lead the charge. Mexico fell at the third spot in the ladder.
Mexico stormed into the game. They led 12:3 midway through the opening quarter. Mexico secured a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. But Finland gradually picked up the tempo. The European team erased the deficit and levelled things up at 40 after twenty minutes. Finland pulled in front early in the third frame. They registered a 52:45 lead in the third term. But Mexico capped the quarter on a 10:3 run to draw things level. The teams stayed knotted at 61 midway through the fourth period. But then Finland triggered a 12:1 surge and raced to the victory at the end. Matti Nuutinen (200-F-90) posted 12 points and 16 rebounds, while Antto Nikkarinen (185-PG-91) and Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) added 11 points each in the win. Gabriel Giron (192-F-88) answered with 19 points for Mexico. Cesar Del Campo (194-F-87) and Francisco Cruz (191-G-89) had 13 points each in the loss.

Finland: Antti Kanervo 20, Matti Nuutinen 12+16 boards, Antto Nikkarinen 11, Carl Lindbom 11
Mexico: Gabriel Giron 19, Cesar Del Campo 13, Francisco Cruz 13


KORISLIIGA: Ryan Brooks signed with YMCA Lahti - by Rauno Hurmalainen
YMCA Lahti and Team's new Head Coach Kimmo Kujansivu have found and signed the first American player for coming 2011-12 season. Ryan Brooks (193-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Temple) will be on Team roster as the new season will start at the end of September. Brooks played last season in Germany Bundesliga (Giessen), where he averaged 9,1 ppg, 2,9 rpg and 1,4 apg. YMCA Lahti has now eight players signed.
The Bisons (Loimaa), newcomer of the Top League, will play a practise game on September 9 vs last season Finnish Champion Pyrinto (Tampere). In this contest there will be a special guest star on Loimaa roster: Ron Artest (201-G/F-79, college: St.John's) (Los Angeles Lakers).

EUROBASKET: Hungary is out - by Rauno Hurmalainen
EuroBasket: Additional Qualifying Round, Szolnok, Hungary: Hungary vs Portugal 57-66 (28-45). Quarters: 19-20, 9-25, 17-10, 12-11. Hungary suffered the third loss in a row and is out of European Championship Games (in Lithuania 31.8.-18.9.2011). Portugal and Finland instead will participate Lithuanian Games. Portugal 19-3 run in eight minutes during the second quarter made the spectators (attendance 2000) quiet. Portugal led during the half time already by 17 points: 28-45. Hungary came back to the game during the third quarter (45-52), but Portugal 11-0 run during the fourth quarter was then too much for the hosts. Hungary: Akos Keller (206-F/C-89, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) 12, Marton Fodor 10, Adam Hanga 9/7/5a, Marton Bader 8/11, Akos Horvath 8. 1 - 69,0% (20/29), 2 - 20,8% (5/24), 3 - 30,0% (9/30). R: 25+13=38. TO: 13. Portugal: Joao Santos (205-C-79, college: Nevada) 16, Jose Costa 10, Miguel Miranda 8, Carlos Andrade 6/11, Antonio Tavares 6. 1 - 72,7% (8/11), 2 - 38,9% (14/36), 3 - 33,3% (10/30). R: 30+16=46. TO: 13.
Standings: Portugal 2-1, Finland 2-0, Hungary 0-3. The last games: 21.8. Finland vs Hungary, 24.8. Portugal vs Finland.



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


Tony Parker may play for ASVEL if lockout is not settled soon - by Eurobasket News
San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-80) may play in France if the NBA lockout takes longer than expected.

According to BasketUSA , Parker said that if the season dont resume by December or January and the NBA is talking about the possibility of cancelling then season, then he would return to France and play for ASVEL.

He played four seasons in the French league before coming to the NBA, and he is part owner of a team.

While there is a lot of talk of NBA players going overseas, it appears to be most of them are on a wait and see mode.

Nonetheless, if the 2011-2012 season is totally wiped out, then these NBA stars might just go abroad to look for possible teams that will have interest in taking their talents.

At least one big name NBA player has already gone overseas. Deron Williams has already signed a contract with a Turkish team Besiktas in Istanbul, with an opt out option that will allow him to return to the NBA once the season resumes.

However, it is more likely that the big clubs in Europe will target second and third tier NBA players to bolster their lineup rather than going for a superstar that might leave them in the middle of an ongoing tournament.

The reason for this is because a lot of teams in Europe already have good rosters filled with well paid players, if they can add one or two quality players that will commit for a full season, then it will be for their best interest.

For example, former Spurs backup point guard Chris Quinn has already signed a one year contract with BC Khimki, to play in Russia.

But lets not get ahead of ourselves yet, most international players that are currently under contract with an NBA team, are now focused on helping their respective countries at the Olympic qualifiers.

With their insurance already secured, Parker, together with Nicolas Batum and Joakim Noah will play for the French national team next month at the EuroBasket, as France tries to get a seat for the London Olympics in 2012.

Courtesy of http://spursworld.wordpress.com

France earn third win in London, rally past China - by Eurobasket News
France - China 76:59

France registered the third straight win at the London Invitational Tournament. Les Bleus cruised past China to stay undefeated. Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) stepped up with 15 points to lead the effort. China suffered the third loss in a row.
France stunned their opponents in the opening frame. They limited China to just 7 points in the quarter to establish a 15-point lead. China stopped the rot in the second period. They outscored France to trail by 14 points at halftime 22:36. But France took over again in the third period. Les Bleus arrived at the final intermission up by 17 points 54:37. The teams exchanged the baskets throughout the fourth frame as France kept China at distance cruising to the victory. Nando De Colo (202-G-87) and Kevin Seraphin (205-F/C-89) posted 14 points each in the win. Jianlian Yi (212-C/F-87) answered with 20 points for China. Yi Li (203-F/G-85) had 14 points in the losing effort.

France: Nicolas Batum 15, Nando De Colo 14, Kevin Seraphin 14
China: Jianlian Yi 20, Yi Li 14


France prevail against Australia in London - by Eurobasket News
France - Australia 71:67

France registered the second straight win at the London Invitational Tournament. They overcame Australia for 2-0 record. Tony Parker (183-PG-80) scored 27 points to lead Les Bleus. Australia fell at 1-1 record after the loss.
France limited their opponents to just 11 points in the opening frame to take a 4-point lead. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the second term as France earned just a five-point lead at halftime 37:32. Les Bleus used a 9:0 run midway through the third term to clear off to a 46:34 distance. Australia trimmed the deficit to 7 points at the final intermission 49:56. Dellavedova and Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) cut the distance to a single point in the fourth quarter. However Pietrus, Noah and Tony Parker quickly regained a 7-point buffer for France. The Boomers did not surrender and got within a single point 67:68 with 11 seconds remaining. Tony Parker stepped up Les Bleus in the dying seconds converting three free throws and sealing the victory at the end. Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) had 16 points and 6 rebounds, while Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) contributed 10 points in the win. Patrick Mills replied with 20 points for Australia. Brad Newley (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) finished with 11 points in the loss.

France: Tony Parker 27, Nicolas Batum 16, Boris Diaw 10
Australia: Patrick Mills 20, Brad Newley 11


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


The Fraport Skyliners reward Carl Lindbom With Contract Extension - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The Fraport Skyliners announced today that they will keep Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) until at least the end of October 2011. Lindbom is a 19 year old 206cm forward from Finland that split his time last season in Frankfurt with the first team and PRO B team. Last season he played 9 games in the Beko BBL 1.1ppg; EuroChallenge: 2 games: 1.5ppg, 1.0apg, and 14 games in the PRO B averaging 7.5ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 84.6%. He recently played at the European Championships U20 Division B in Sarajevo (Bosnia) -11: 9 games: 13.2ppg, 8.7rpg, FGP: 41.3%, 3PT: 22.6%, FT: 57.9%. 'Calle wants to stay which we like. He wants to fight for a spot in our roster. That is why we first have decided on extending his contract until the end of October. Then we will sit down, analyze the situation and decide what we wil be the best step for him in his development', stressed Skyliner sport director KamilNovak. 'It is an honour to continue to play for the Fraport Skyliners. I am looking forward to working together with Muli Katzurin and Klaus Perwass. I will do everything for the team and work hard', stressed Carl Linsbom.

Source: DB SKYLINERS Frankfurt e.V.

BG Goettingen Complete Roster With Raymond Sykes - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
BG Goettingen have goten their wish player to complete their roster for the upcoming season with Raymond Sykes (206-F/C-86, college: Clemson). Sykes is a 24 year old 206cm power forward/center from Jacksonville, Florida that will be starting his thrid professional basketball season and first in Europe. Last season, he played for Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League, starting five): 48 games: 14.1ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.0apg, 1.8bpg, FGP: 51.7%, FT: 72.2%. 'Raymond Sykes (206-F/C-86, college: Clemson) is exactly the missing puzzle piece that we had been looking for that had been missing. He fits exactly to our style with his unbelivebale athletic ability and defensive orientated game. He also doesnt't have to hide himself in the offense. He can play at the hoop and from the middle distance. He is a good rebounder and absolute team player', stressed BG Goettingen head coach Stefan Mienack. Sykes started his basketball career in 2005 with Clemson (NCAA) where he played until 2009. In his senior year, he played 32 games: 7.9ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 57.8%, FT: 55.7%. He turned professional in 2009 and was drafted by the Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League,1rd (13) and in his rookie season played 49 games: 10.2ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 57.9%, FT: 71.4%. In 2010, he also played for Bameso (Dominican Rep.-District National D2, starting five): 8.4ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP:41%, FT: 48%. He also played NBA Summer League in Las Vegas (Miami Heat) in 2010. Awards/Achievements in his career have been ACC Tournament Finalist -08, and NIT Finalist -07.

Source: BG Goettingen

2011 Universiade. Germany beat China to remain undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Germany - China 75:51

Germany stayed perfect at World University Games in Shenzhen. They overwhelmed China tonight to clinch 5-0 record on top of Group A advancing into quarterfinal round. Johannes Lischka (203-F/C-87) stepped up with 15 points for Germany. China in the meantime fell at 1-4 record in the fourth place in the ladder.
China managed to pull in front and maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter. The hosts secured an 18:16 lead at the first break. But Germany opened the second term on a 10:1 run to spur in front. The visitors established a 33:28 halftime advantage. Germany capped the third term on a 12:2 run to clear off to a 21-point distance. Germany stayed comfortable in charge throughout the fourth frame and drove to the victory at the end. Jonas Wohlfarth-Bottermann (207-C-90, agency: Court Side) and Karsten Tadda (189-G-88, agency: Pro One Sports) posted 11 points apiece for the winners. Li Yuanyu (206-C-91) responded with 15 points for China. Shi Hongfei (180-PG-93) had 8 points in the losing effort.

Germany: Johannes Lischka 15, Jonas Wohlfarth-Bottermann 11, Karsten Tadda 11
China: Li Yuanyu 15, Shi Hongfei 8



Harley Fuller Signs With BG Illertal - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
BG Illertal made it official today signing Harley Fuller (185-G-88, college: Molloy) who will make his debut in the German PRO B this season. Fuller is a 22 year old 185cm point guard from Gloversville, New York. Last season, he played his rookie season as a professional for TuS Treis-Karden (Germany-Regionalliga): 16.3ppg, 6prg, Assists-1 (6apg), FGP: 56.0%, 3Pts: 40.0%. 'He had consistent stats last season.He has shown with his former teams that he can lead teams. He wont be the big superstar that will shine with big plays in each game. More important is that he is hungry and wnats to take the next step', stressed BG Illertal head coach Rainer Bauer. Fuller played at three different colleges gaining experience at Cobleskill Junior College, Florida Intern. (NCAA): 23 games: 1.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 41.0%, 3Pts: 32.0% and in his senior year transfered to Molloy (NCAA2): 30 games: 8.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 6.0apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3Pts: 28.8%, FT: 74.6%. Two fo his former coaches gave Fuller the total thumbs up and he delivered in the German regionaliga and will now attempt the next step in the German PRO B. 'Harley is a crafty point guard with the ability to create for teammates and score in a variety of different ways. He is an above average three point shooter and has a high basketball IQ. He really takes pride in getting others involved but also can score in bunches. He works very well off the of pick and roll and makes intelligent decision on the fast break. An excellent reounder and floor general who has strong knowledge of the game and how to run a winning team. He's a proven winner', stated Molloy College Men's Basketball Coach Charles Marquardt. ' Harley is a true point guard, He knows how to run a team without turning the ball over. He is a leader who comes from huge winning numbers. We are very fortunate to get him', expressed Florida International University Men's Basketball Coach Sergio Rouco. Awards/Achievements in his career have been HS: Player of the Year -03, MVP of the Las Vegas Prep Classic -03, All Mountain Valley, Conference Selection -04, 05, All Region 3 Selection -04, 05, 07, All Mountain Valley Conference Selection -06, 07, NJCAA Region 3 Chanmpion -07, Top 15 in NCAA Division 2 in Assists Per game -10, and Spalding BVRP Cup Winner -11 (MVP). 'I am happy with my first season in Germany. I was able to get used to the European basketball style. I will give everything so we will land in the playoffs', stressed Harley Fuller (185-G-88, college: Molloy).

Source: BG Illertal


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


DASH Peristeri GS Athens sign Robert Troha - by Eurobasket Center
DASH Peristeri GS Athens signed 34-year old Croatian swingman Robert Troha (194-G/F-77, agency: Court Side). The experienced Croatian player spent last season with KK KK Cedevita Zagreb averaging 5.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.2spg in Adriatic League, 2.9ppg in the Croatian League and 5.1ppg, 1.6rpg in Eurocup.

Courtesy of Sportando.net



*****************************************************
  HONG KONG   


2011 Universiade. Canada drop Hong Kong, top Group B - by Eurobasket News
Canada - Hong Kong 83:50

Canada registered the third win at World University Games in China. They overcame Hong Kong to clinch the top position in Group B. Warren Ward (196-G-89) accounted for 17 points to lead the effort. Hong Kong suffered the fourth straight defeat at the tournament.
Honk Kong came up with arguably their best performance at the tournament when they stayed in charge against Canada in the first period. Canada eventually denied the deficit and levelled things up at 14 after ten minutes. But the North American side shook off sloppiness and erupted for an 18:4 run at the start of the second period. Canada built a 40:22 lead at the interval. They dominated in the third term recording a 60:34 advantage into the fourth period. Canada never slowed down and rolled to a confident win at the end. Jahmal Jones (183-PG-91) and Cole Hobin (198-G-89) delivered 12 points each in the victory. Mok Ka Chun (203-C-88) and Chan Yik Lun (190-G-87) answered with 8 points apiece in the loss.

Canada: Warren Ward 17, Jahmal Jones 12, Cole Hobin 12
Hong Kong: Mok Ka Chun 8, Chan Yik Lun 8


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


Peter Lorant joins Lagun Aro GBC - by Interperformances
The Hungarian power forward Peter Lorant (207-F/C-85) signed yesterday a deal with the Spanish first league team Lagun Aro for the next season. Peter is coming from another Spanish team, Ford Burgos, which he joined back in 2007. In four seasons Peter became one of the best players of the LEB Gold League in his position. Last year he led his team to the playoffs for the promotion, averaging 11.4ppg and 5.4rpg in 27 minutes.
Peter is a member of the Hungarian National Team with which he recently played in the European Championships.

Portugal edge Hungary in Szolnok, book EuroBasket ticket - by Eurobasket News
Hungary - Portugal 57:66

Portugal will play at 2011 EuroBasket. They overcame Hungary in Szolnok tonight to seal their European Championship birth. Hungary suffered the third loss in a row at EuroBasket Additional Qualifying Tournament and lost any chances of reaching Lithuania.
The teams exchanged baskets throughout the opening frame. Portugal ensured a narrow 20:19 lead at the first break. The visitors opened the second period on a 10:0 run to open an 11-point lead. Soon Portugal ignited a 9:0 rally to take a 39:22 advantage. Portugal established a 45:28 halftime lead. But Hungary did not surrender. They went on a desperate rescue rally with their backs against the wall. Hungary capped the third frame on a 12:3 run to get within 10 points 45:55. Akos Keller (206-F/C-89, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) drained a three-pointer as the hosts cut the deficit at 7 points early in the fourth frame 48:55. But Joao Santos (205-C-79, college: Nevada) answered with 9 points in a row and Portugal never looked back en route to the victory. Joao Santos provided 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Jose Costa (187-G-73) added 10 points for Portugal. Akos Keller replied with 12 points for Hungary. Marton Fodor (191-G-81, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) had 10 points in defeat.

Hungary: Akos Keller 12, Marton Fodor 10
Portugal: Joao Santos 16, Jose Costa 10, Miguel Miranda (205-F-78) 8


2011 Universiade. South Korea end preliminary round with victory - by Eurobasket News
South Korea - Hungary 77:73

South Korea registered the second win at World University Games in China. They toppled Hungary to improve at 2-3 record in Group D. Jang Jaeseok (205-C-91) scored 21 points and pulled down 7 rebounds to pace the winners. Hungary in the meantime suffered the fifth loss in a row.
South Korea posted a 23:17 lead ten minutes into the game. They controlled the tempo in the second quarter. The Asian team established a 42:31 halftime advantage. The margin just kept on growing throughout the third period. South Korea piled up a 14-point lead at the final break 61:47. Hungary went on a desperate comeback rally in the fourth quarter. They nearly succeeded cutting the deficit but ran out of time at the end. Lee Jung-Hyun (190-F-87) delivered 20 points, while Park Jae-Hyun (187-G-91) and Choi Bu Kyung (200-F-89) posted 10 points apiece in the win. Ferdinand Morgen (206-F/C-90) answered with 22 points and 17 rebounds for Hungary. Peter Szabo (183-G-89) finished with 12 points in the loss.

South Korea: Jang Jaeseok 21, Lee Jung-Hyun 20, Park Jae-Hyun 10, Choi Bu Kyung 10+11 boards
Hungary: Ferdinand Morgen 22+17 boards, Peter Szabo 12


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


From France to Israel - Joseph Jones joins Galil/Gilboa - by David Pick
Posted: August 18, 2011, 12:37 PM

Israeli finalist Galil/Gilboa seems to be finalizing their roster for the upcoming season. After securing team star swingman Courtney Fells for a second year, adding the recent Akron Ohio Hall of Fame big man Romeo Travis, in addition to the European rookie guard Chaisson Allen, Hapoel agreed terms with American center Joseph Jones.

A successful Texas A&M graduate got Jones a shot at a few NBA workouts with the Kings and Rockets, though he signed in Turkey for the 2008-09 season. Coming off back-to-back years in France with Le Havre recording averages of 12.5ppg, 7.7rpg and 1.3apg, the 25-year-old Jones also had eight double-doubles during the season, bringing depth and size to the northern Israeli's team roster.

Galil/Gilboa and second division's Hapoel Tel-Aviv officially joined the Balkan League competition for the 2011-12 season.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

Dwight Howard's Orlando Magic to Play Maccabi Haifa in Preseason Game - by David Pick
Posted: August 18, 2011, 20:43 PM

The 2009 NBA finalist Orlando Magic, will host Israel's Maccabi Haifa in a 2011 preseason game on Sunday, October 23rd at 6:00 p.m. at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida.
Haifa's American businessman owner and Fla. resident, Jeffrey Rosen, is clearly establishing a partnership between Haifa and the NBA. Last season, Maccabi traveled to the United States for the first time to play the New Jersey Nets, attracting thousands of American Jewish residents to the arena.

We are looking forward to having Maccabi Haifa visit Orlando and the Amway Center this preseason. We are proud to be their host in what should be a very entertaining game, said Magic President Alex Martins.

We are excited to have Maccabi Haifa play such a prestigious team such as the Orlando Magic, said Jeffrey Rosen. Haifa continues to build its brand globally and games against high quality NBA opponents broaden our exposure.

Haifa recently completed its impressive 2011-12 roster adding former NBA high flying center Sean Williams. Jeremy Wise, Carlos Powell and Tyler Wilkerson will complete Haifa's foreign squad in addition to American/Israeli citizen Sylvan Landesberg, Haifa is expected to qualify to Israeli Final-Four after failing to do so last season.

The Magic's roster shows NBA All-Star and high caliber names such as center Dwight Howard, Hedo Turkoglu, Quentin Richardson, J.J. Redick, Jameer Nelson, Chris Duhon, Earl Clark, Gilbert Arenas, Malik Allen and Ryan Anderson.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd



2011 Universiade. Israel put up decent fight against USA, lose at the end - by Eurobasket News
USA - Israel 94:84

USA earned the fifth straight win at World University Games in Shenzhen. They prevailed against Israel in a tough battle on the final day of preliminary round action. Jamychal Green (6'9''-F-90) stepped up with 16 points to pace the winners. Israel fell at 2-3 record in the fourth position in Group D.
USA stayed in charge throughout the opening frame. They recorded a 27:23 lead after ten minutes. But Israel denied the deficit. They pulled in front for a 43:41 halftime advantage. Israel stayed in front for some time in the third term. However the North American team stepped on the gas and snatched a 70:62 lead with one quarter remaining. They cleared off to a double-digit lead midway through the fourth quarter. Israel tried hard to erase the deficit but the USA hung on to celebrate yet another win at the tournament. Marcus Denmon (6'3''-G-90) posted 13 points, while John Jenkins (6'4''-G-91) and Trevor Mbakwe (6'8''-F-89) had 12 points apiece for the USA. Anton Shoutvin (6'9''-C/F-89) answered with 20 points for Israel. Jared Mintz (6'9''-F-88, college: Lafayette) delivered 19 points in the losing case.

USA: Jamychal Green 16, Marcus Denmon 13, John Jenkins 12, Trevor Mbakwe 12+13 boards
Israel: Anton Shoutvin 20, Jared Mintz 19


Maccabi T.A. Will Play In French Tournament - by David Pick
Posted: August 18, 2011, 16:01 PM

Euroleague finalist and Israeli champion Maccabi Tel-Aviv will travel to France come September 18th 23rd, in order to participate in an exhibition tournament for the upcoming season, where Head Coach David Blatt will get a chance to mesh and gel his guys together for an hectic three league season.

Participating teams other then M.T.A all come from the French top 'ProA' league, including ASVEL, Le Mans, Gravelines and Cholet Basket.

The French media networks have already begun it's hype around the leading Israeli organization, marketing the tourney by using Maccabi's newly acquired stars including two-time NBA champion guard Jordan Farmar, European legend Thodoros Papaloukas and even the first Israeli to ever play in the NBA but has yet to sign an official contract with Maccabi, Omri Casspi.

ASVEL has also made an NBA recruit during the summer, adding American power forward Hilton Armstrong, coming from the Atlanta Hawks. Former Hapoel Jerusalem small forward Dijon Thompson is familiar with M.T.A from his days in Israel and also joined ASVEL, will be playing in the tourney.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd



Standings - National League
National League Standings
 1. Hapoel T-A 23-3 
 2. B.C. Habikaa 19-7 
 3. Elitzur Yavne 17-9 
 4. Megido/Yokneam 15-11 
 5. Beer Yaakov 13-13 
 6. Elitzur Ramla 13-13 
 7. Lev Hasharon 12-14 
 8. Hapoel Tivon 12-14 
 9. Kohav Yair 12-14 
 10. Hapoel Afula 11-15 
 11. Ironi Ramat Gan 11-15 
 12. Hapoel Beeri 9-17 
 13. Hod Hasharon 9-17 
 14. Ironi Nahariya 6-20 


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


Keith Benson joins Dinamo Sassari - by Antonello Varallo
Banco di Sardegna Sassari announced the agreement with Keith Benson (210-C-88), a big man who impressed a lot during his college career, spent with Oakland.
Benson, who has been drafted by Atlanta Hawks (number 48 of second round) averaged 17.9 ppg and 10.1 rpd during his senior year (17.3 ppg and 10.5 rpg during the third college year). Benson is also an incredible shot blocker. His nickname is 'Kito'. This deal increases the ambition of Dinamo Sassari and is an interesting addition for Italian Serie A

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


2011 Universiade. Japan leave no chance for Philippines - by Eurobasket News
Japan - Philippines 112:44

Japan dismantled Philippines on the final day of preliminary round at World University Games. The victory propelled Japan to 2-3 record in Group C. Philippines on the other hand suffered the fifth loss in a row. Japan started the game aggressively and ensured a 15:3 lead midway through the opening quarter. They posted a 28:11 lead at the first intermission. Japan fired 32 points in the second term to boost the gap to as many as 37 points 60:23. Japan tipped off the third quarter on a 20:5 rally to aggravate the damage. They entered the fourth frame leading by 54 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Daiki Tanaka (191-F-91) posted 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for Japan. Daisuke Kobayashi (188-G-87) and Ruymo Ono (197-F/C-88) notched 14 points each in the win. June Mar Fajardo (196-C-89) and Arvin Kim Gomez (183-F-91) replied with 12 points each for Philippines.

Japan: Daiki Tanaka 21, Daisuke Kobayashi 14, Ruymo Ono 14
Philippines: June Mar Fajardo 12, Arvin Kim Gomez 12


*****************************************************
  KUWAIT   


Interview with Coach Oliver Vidin - by Corey Washington
Eurobasket got a tip on a promising young Serbian Head basketball Coach from Kevin Wilson the Director of International Scouting for the (NBA) New York Knicks. Whos responsible for their pick of Danilo Gallinari, lives in Barcelona and the Regal Barcelona team is his hometown club... He covers the burgeoning international basketball world, with special emphasis on the European scene. He joined the Knicks after four seasons in a similar capacity with (NBA) Utah Jazz... Prior to joining the Jazz, had a five-year career in European pro basketball, including management and individual player development... Native of Colorado raised in Southern California and attended Cal State Fullerton...

Kevin insisted that we do an interview with his close friend and successful Serbian Coach Oliver Vidin . While Coach Vidin prepares for his debut in the Middle East, Eurobasket spoke with him about his past success and future goals.

Eurobasket: Coach Oliver Vidin Thanks for taking the time out to speak with Eurobasket. After speaking with Kevin Wilson and hearing him express his support for you, I had to bring the spotlight on your career as a young experienced basketball coach. You are 34 years old, and have been coaching since 1996? Spent the first 10 years coaching in the Serbian League. Tell us a little about your career early on?

Coach Vidin: First of all, I want to thank eurobasket for contacting me, and Thank Kevin for the kind gesture Its an honor to be doing this interview today. Yes Its true; I have been a licensed basketball coach in many organizations in Yugoslavia since 1996. In that year I started as an assistant coach with the cadet mens U14team, in B.C. Red Star Belgrade. Soon after, I got an offer from B.C. Radivoje Korac and I started my first Head Coaching position with the mens U11-U12 team. In 1998 I got an invitation from the National Team Basketball Campthat is my first contact with National Team selections.
As the assistant coach of that National Team I gained many valuable skills that I use today while coaching youth categories on the highest levels. We won a gold medal in the European Championships for cadets in Slovenia in 1999. That year I got an offer from one of the best clubs in Yugoslavia with a team full of young and talented players B.C. Zemun Drvomarket, and coaching the junior team mens U18. Two years after that, I got an offer to be the Head Coach of the senior team in B.C. Zemun Drvomarket. I figured I this was my chance to show my best and prove myself as a great Mens senior basketball Head Coach. Along the way, became assistant coach for the Junior National Team of Yugoslavi in 2000. We won the gold medal in the unofficial World Championship in Manheim-Germany which was one of my biggest achievements at that time. A few years after, we won a gold medal in 2007 with the Junior National Team of Serbia during the European Championships for juniors in Madrid-Spain. In 2007/2008 I signed for B.C.Vizura as a first assistant coach and we finished 2nd in the Serbian league Div 1 and qualified for the Serbian Super league with the youngest team in the country. After a successful season I got an offer to go abroad and sign in Slovakian Extra league as a Head Coach in B.C. Dolny Kubin after a successful year I got an offer from the famous club in Slovakia Inter Bratislava where I stayed for two seasons.

Eurobasket: You seemed to have had a lot of success with younger players So the last two seasons you coached B.C Inter Bratislava? Was this a young club as well? What were the major factors in your season results?


Coach Vidin: Yes, B.C.Inter Bratislava was the youngest team in the league and we met all goals in the first season. Seven out of twelve players got invitations to play for the National Teams U-20 and U-18

Eurobasket: As Head Coach of the U-20 National team in Slovakia. How were you selected as the National Team Coach? And how did you find the challenge coaching young players in Slovakia?


Coach Vidin: In 2010 I was honored as Coach of the Year in the Slovakian Extra league because of the level of play from my players in the playoffs. I think thats the reason why I got the invitation from National Federation of Slovakia to be the Head Coach of U-20 Men National Team. Slovakian young players are not the same level as Serbian players. But they are very talented players and all they only need hard work for gain big success. My biggest challenge was to raise their level of play for the young players and to try to develop their individual skills on a higher level. I believe I succeeded in that because one of the players Tomas Mrvis from U-20 became a starter for the Senior National Team in the same season.

Eurobasket: So you had a successful introduction in Serbia, and decided to take your talents elsewhere Gained a wealth of knowledge and success in Slovakia with a short stop in Finland, tell us about your experience in Finland, and was it hard for you to make the transition?


Coach Vidin: In Finland I was the main lecture at the Basketball Clinic for Coaches in Tampere 2008 and 2009. I had a great experience with Finnish basketball players and coaches, because they are willing to learn. It is not hard for me to be outside of my country Actually I love to meet new people, new nations and new cultures. First goal when I got to Slovakia was to learn Slovakian language. I was lucky because I also speak Macedonian and they have many similarities.

Eurobasket: You have expressed your interest in coaching in the GCC, and currently negotiating with a few Arab clubs. What could you bring to locations like Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Saudi to name a few? Do you have any experience in the Middle East?


Coach Vidin: Actually, I already feel like I am working in Middle East countries, because a very good friend of mine was the National Team Coach of Iran (took Iran to Olympic games) and Philippines Rajko Toroman and six years National Coach of Kuwait Zoran Kreckovic told me very good things about the native people and only good things about Middle East. This is why I am so sure that I have very good chance to promote myself in the best way and that is by winning games and taking the best performances from local players in cooperation with few import players. Also my goals will be to raise the level of play with my club to the highest level to compete for the league championship.

Eurobasket: You have your own training service Vidin professional training service where you develop and implement techniques and skills programs for professional basketball players. I know you worked with many professionals to provide this service, to include Nenad Krstic when he was with the New Jersey Nets (NBA). Can you tell Eurobasket a little about this training you provide, and how you were able to get the likes of Nenard Krstic Boston Celtics NBA, Aleksandar Capin Union Olimpija (Euroleague) and Marko Jovanovic (Pistons NBA Summer League) involved?


Coach Vidin: Yes, thats true. Throughout the summer I worked with high level players and every year there are different players. The players I work with are mostly from the NBA level and Euroleague level. I worked with Nenad Krsticon the Junior National Team, and after that many summers we worked to improve individual techniques and skills. The same story is with Aleksandar Capin, I worked with him one summer and that season he was the best three point shooter in first A1 Italian league. This is very important because I know that this same way of training can be used in Middle East countries because we have an excellent example with the way Rajko Toroman took a very good Iranian player Hamed Haddadi a made him into a very good NBA player .

Eurobasket: How could a club utilize your training, and experience in the Middle East? Would you be able to incorporate your training into everyday practice for your club?


Coach Vidin: Thats for sure. All you need as a good coach is to believe in players who have talent and great willing to become a player on the highest level. Serbian coaches have specific schools and ways to incorporate training on any level of players, thats why we have so many Serbian coaches in the Middle East with big success.

Eurobasket: Do you speak or understand Arabic? How would this help or decrease your chances of success?


Coach Vidin: I am willing to learn. Off course that will increase my chance to succeed and it will be much easier to communicate with players and people on and off of court.

Eurobasket: Thanks for speaking with us on your career, and hopefully we get a chance to interview you after your first year of Middle East Basketball. Is there anything you would like Clubs and players to know about Oliver Vidin ?


Coach Vidin: Well, I dont like to talk too much about myself. My results will speak for themselves. I believe that I will have a good time in Middle East countries and will help to put Arabic basketball on a higher level. If anyone is interested and are basketball friends, and want to ask me anything related to basketball training, they can contact me on: olivervidin@gmail.com Thank you for your interview, and I hope we will stay in contact.
Best regards to Eurobasket.
Coach, Oliver Vidin



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


Watkins with the national team - by Maarouf Mawloud
The Lebanese Basketball Federation is planning to sign Darryl Watkins (211-C-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Syracuse) . Watkins a 6'11 Center who has a huge basketball Profile.
Last season he played in the Lebanese League with Sagesse club and had an average of 15.5ppg, 10.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.9spg, Blocks 1.4 per game.
On the other hands,Lebanon lost today his second game against Ukraine in the friendly camp hold in Turkey.
The first game was against Algeria,and Lebanon grabbed an easy win in it.

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


Nevezis Kedainiai adds Hicks to their roster - by Greg
Nevezis Kedainiai has just announced the signing of 26-year old Canadian former international center Russell Hicks (213-C-85, college: FIU). Hicks played most recently at BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers (Austria). In 22 games for Furstenfeld last season he recorded 9.7ppg, 5.1rpg and 1.7bpg ( league's leader). He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Austrian League Honorable Mention.

2011 Universiade. Russia knock off Lithuania, stay perfect - by Eurobasket News
Russia - Lithuania 77:62

Russia kept their record spotless at the end of preliminary round of World University Games. They held off Lithuania to secure 5-0 record on top of Group C. Ivan Nelyubov (207-C-88) posted 18 points and 10 rebounds to lead the winners. Lithuania fell at 4-1 record after the loss and occupied the second position in the standings.
Russia stayed in front throughout the starting quarter. They recorded a 17:12 lead at the first break. Lithuania opened the second term on a 10:4 run to put their noses in front. The lead changed hands before Russia ensured a 34:30 halftime advantage. The seesaw action continued throughout the third period. Russia managed to post a 51:45 lead at the final break. They stretched the gap to 10 points midway through the fourth frame and never looked back again. Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) posted 16 points, while Andrey Mateyunas (180-PG-88) added 13 points in the win. Gediminas Zyle (209-C-88) answered with 22 points for Lithuania. Marius Valukonis (198-F-88) netted 15 points in the losing case.

Russia: Ivan Nelyubov 18+10 boards, Petr Gubanov 16, Andrey Mateyunas 13
Lithuania: Gediminas Zyle 22, Marius Valukonis 15


*****************************************************
  MADAGASCAR   


AfroBasket: Mozambique beats Madagascar 77-67 in Day One - by Eurobasket News
Madagascar - Mozambique 67-77
Support by a large turn-out of supporters host of 26th FIBA Afria Championship for Men Madagascar failed to appreciate its supporters as it fell to more determined Mozambican side by 67-77 points in a group-A pairing. The madagascan surrender in the first and second quarters by 12-18 and 14-18 points to trail by ten points at the break 26-36 points. The Coach Angel Manzano Polo tutored however came into the third quarter with a mind-set to upturn the table against the Mozambican, their effort paid off when they won the quarter by 23-18 points to reduce the margin to just five points going into the last quarter 49-54 but determination saw the Mozambican side through as they mount ceaseless pressure on the Madagascar side forcing they to drop the last quarter by 18-23 points. Mozambique Stelio Nuaila (196-F-85) led his side with 15 points, 4 steals and 3 rebounds, David Canivete (193-F-89) and Fernando Mandlate (191-G-85) added 12 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 12 points 4 rebounds 4 steals and 2 assists for their side vital win of the opening day. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

*****************************************************
  MALI   


Mali fails to Nigeria 59-84 in Day One in Antananarivo - by Eurobasket News
Nigeria - Mali 84-59
Nigeria made a bold statement in group-A of the 26th edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men tagged; Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket with an 84-59 points win over Mali. The Nigerian side coached by Ayo Bakare rose from a 20-22 points deficit in the first quarter to put paid to the ambition of the Malian from the second quarter through the last winning by 18-05, 18-14 and 28-18 points. Nigeria dominated the Malian on the board with a total of 42 rebounds to Mali 23 while the Malian recorded 22 turn-over with Nigeria 16. Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) led the Nigerian challenge with 15 points and 4 rebounds, Oyedeji Olumide (208-C/F-81) showed great presence with 11 points and 8 rebounds, point guard Michael Umeh (188-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: UNLV) contributed 11 points 5 rebounds and 3 asists just as Ime Udoka added 10 points and 4 rebounds to give Nigeria a well deserved victory. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

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


2011 Universiade. Finland top Mexico, enter quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
Finland - Mexico 73:62

Finland advanced into the World University Games quarterfinals. They held off Mexico in the crucial encounter in Group D to clinch the second position. Antti Kanervo (193-G/F-89) stepped up with 20 points to lead the charge. Mexico fell at the third spot in the ladder.
Mexico stormed into the game. They led 12:3 midway through the opening quarter. Mexico secured a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. But Finland gradually picked up the tempo. The European team erased the deficit and levelled things up at 40 after twenty minutes. Finland pulled in front early in the third frame. They registered a 52:45 lead in the third term. But Mexico capped the quarter on a 10:3 run to draw things level. The teams stayed knotted at 61 midway through the fourth period. But then Finland triggered a 12:1 surge and raced to the victory at the end. Matti Nuutinen (200-F-90) posted 12 points and 16 rebounds, while Antto Nikkarinen (185-PG-91) and Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) added 11 points each in the win. Gabriel Giron (192-F-88) answered with 19 points for Mexico. Cesar Del Campo (194-F-87) and Francisco Cruz (191-G-89) had 13 points each in the loss.

Finland: Antti Kanervo 20, Matti Nuutinen 12+16 boards, Antto Nikkarinen 11, Carl Lindbom 11
Mexico: Gabriel Giron 19, Cesar Del Campo 13, Francisco Cruz 13


Jermaine Watson is a newcomer at Pilares del Districto Federal - by Greg
Pilares del Districto Federal (LNBP) strengthened their roster with addition of 30-year old Canadian guard Jermaine Watson (193-G-81, college: Boston Coll., agency: KMG Sports Management). Watson played most recently at Tijuana Zonkeys (CIBACOPA). While playing 37 games for Tijuana last season he averaged 20.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 5.7apg (3rd best in the league) and 1.7bpg. During his basketball career Watson played also in Argentina, Uruguay, Venezuela, Kuwait and Lebanon.

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


Tepavcevic inks for Zrinjski - by Dragan Scepanovic
Basketball Club Zrinjski from Mostar member of BiH Premier and BBL and DELFI SMG Basketball announced that ex basketball player of Basketball Club Ulcinj Sinisa Tepavcevic (201-F-84) singed two years contract whit Basketball Club Zrinjski.Before Basketball Club Zrinski Sinisa Tepavcevic play for Monetegrin Basketball Clubs Ulcinj, Primorje,Mogren and Niskic.Last season in Balkan League Tepavcevic score in 11 games: 10.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 69.0%


Buducnost locks Vladimir Mihailovic until 2014 - by Eurobasket News
Buducnost announced signing of a three-year contract extension with Vladimir Mihailovic (193-G-90). It means that the promising guard will stay with the Montenegrin powerhouse until the end of the 2013/14 season. Mihailovic joined Buducnost last year from Mornar Bar. He appeared 23 times in Adriatic league averaging 5.6 points and 1.4 rebounds. Mihailovic also added 2.5 ppg for two games in Euroleague Qualifying Round. Before Buducnost, he played several years for Mornar Bar. Vladimir Mihailovic is active member of the Montenegrin National Team. He appeared 7 times for them in Qualifications to European Championships 2011 averaging less than point. Mihailovic played for U20 and U18 Montenegro in the past. Last summer he was one of the best players at the European Championships U20 in Croatia. He shined with 16.9 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.6 apg for 9 games at this event.

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


Report: Durant has $1 million/month Russian offer - by Eurobasket News
Kevin Durant (206-G/F-88, college: Texas) got some options right now. His agent recently said the Thunder superstar was exploring situations in Spain, Turkey and Russia.

Well, the Russia thing just got a bit more interesting. Because we have an offer. According to Championat.com, via HoopsHype, Russian superpower CSKA Moscow is in talks with Durant's representation for a deal worth around $1 million per month. Not too bad.

If you recall, Kobe's reported offer from China is for something like $1.5 million. So Durant obviously is carrying a similar global reputation. Deron Williams' Turkish deal was only for $250,000 a month.

CSKA Moscow is a team that certainly has big Bucks to throw around as it was formerly owned by current Nets chairman Mikhail Prokhorov. The team has sat atop the Russian league in both money and success for a good number of years.

But it seems like a pretty unlikely end game for Durant. He said recently he was 50-50 on going overseas with a deadline for his decision to be Oct. 1. He doesn't really sound or seem like a player that eager to take his talents across the pond. He's been ripping up every pro-am there is coast-to-coast but eventually he's got to find some real games. Some real competition. There are worse options than Russia, but I'm pretty sure Durant's not going to be stoked about it. He wants to play in the NBA.

What we're seeing with a lot of these rumored deals is that it's posturing from both sides. The team is looking to raise its profile by being 'in talks' with an NBA superstar. Immediately people assume the organization has a bunch of money and credibility to be able to land a player like that. And on the other end, it's a solid bargaining chip for the players to throw in the owners' faces. Really, the only people coming out on the short end of this stuff are fans of the NBA. Awesome for us.

It's a developing situation with Durant. More stuff about it seems to be making the rounds and while I still think it's an unlikely scenario, it's at least a possibility. And getting paid $1 million a month to ball instead of squat to just hoop on a blacktop isn't too bad a Plan B.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Kobe Bryant has 43 in summer game - by Eurobasket News
Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) made his first appearance this summer Tuesday at South Los Angeles' famed Drew League, and he wasted no time grabbing the headlines.

The Los Angeles Lakers guard scored 43 points, including a game-winning buzzer-beater while matched up against Oklahoma City Thunder guard (and L.A. native) James Harden.

Drew League commissioner Dino Smiley disputed various Internet and Twitter accounts that said Bryant scored 45.

As one would deduce from the numbers, Bryant -- who underwent an offseason platelet-rich plasma therapy procedure on his troublesome right knee -- looked good on the court.

'He was fresh,' Smiley said. 'His spring, his jump shot was nice. Getting to the basket. His jab steps and his footwork. Everything was very good.'

Smiley kept the possibility of an appearance by Bryant under wraps, but once the superstar showed up, the news immediately hit cyberspace.

'That's when the line went about 75 yards out the door,' Smiley said. 'We had to have a sheriff at the door to keep crowd control. We knew it was going to be an unusual amount of people there.'

The fans, who'd been chanting 'Kobe' as Bryant dribbled the ball up the floor for the final play, stormed the court to mob the 13-time All-Star. To Smiley's recollection, that reaction was a Drew League first.

'We've had guys hit game-winners where their teammates run on the floor. Some of their friends may run on the floor,' he said. 'But that right there was mind-boggling. That trumped everything.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Tony Parker may play for ASVEL if lockout is not settled soon - by Eurobasket News
San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-80) may play in France if the NBA lockout takes longer than expected.

According to BasketUSA , Parker said that if the season dont resume by December or January and the NBA is talking about the possibility of cancelling then season, then he would return to France and play for ASVEL.

He played four seasons in the French league before coming to the NBA, and he is part owner of a team.

While there is a lot of talk of NBA players going overseas, it appears to be most of them are on a wait and see mode.

Nonetheless, if the 2011-2012 season is totally wiped out, then these NBA stars might just go abroad to look for possible teams that will have interest in taking their talents.

At least one big name NBA player has already gone overseas. Deron Williams has already signed a contract with a Turkish team Besiktas in Istanbul, with an opt out option that will allow him to return to the NBA once the season resumes.

However, it is more likely that the big clubs in Europe will target second and third tier NBA players to bolster their lineup rather than going for a superstar that might leave them in the middle of an ongoing tournament.

The reason for this is because a lot of teams in Europe already have good rosters filled with well paid players, if they can add one or two quality players that will commit for a full season, then it will be for their best interest.

For example, former Spurs backup point guard Chris Quinn has already signed a one year contract with BC Khimki, to play in Russia.

But lets not get ahead of ourselves yet, most international players that are currently under contract with an NBA team, are now focused on helping their respective countries at the Olympic qualifiers.

With their insurance already secured, Parker, together with Nicolas Batum and Joakim Noah will play for the French national team next month at the EuroBasket, as France tries to get a seat for the London Olympics in 2012.

Courtesy of http://spursworld.wordpress.com

The List Keeps Growing - by Eddie King
The list continue to grow with the number of NBA player to have signed with teams overseas, or are considering it. The national media coverage of this isn't as bi right now because none of the top 5-10 faces have signed any deals, but once one of them do, it's going to be a snowball effect. Other Players will follow and the NBA owners are not going to look so good with the majority of their product making money somewhere else because of a NBA lockout!

There's over 60 NBA players already signed to play overseas!

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


2011 Universiade. Israel put up decent fight against USA, lose at the end - by Eurobasket News
USA - Israel 94:84

USA earned the fifth straight win at World University Games in Shenzhen. They prevailed against Israel in a tough battle on the final day of preliminary round action. Jamychal Green (6'9''-F-90) stepped up with 16 points to pace the winners. Israel fell at 2-3 record in the fourth position in Group D.
USA stayed in charge throughout the opening frame. They recorded a 27:23 lead after ten minutes. But Israel denied the deficit. They pulled in front for a 43:41 halftime advantage. Israel stayed in front for some time in the third term. However the North American team stepped on the gas and snatched a 70:62 lead with one quarter remaining. They cleared off to a double-digit lead midway through the fourth quarter. Israel tried hard to erase the deficit but the USA hung on to celebrate yet another win at the tournament. Marcus Denmon (6'3''-G-90) posted 13 points, while John Jenkins (6'4''-G-91) and Trevor Mbakwe (6'8''-F-89) had 12 points apiece for the USA. Anton Shoutvin (6'9''-C/F-89) answered with 20 points for Israel. Jared Mintz (6'9''-F-88, college: Lafayette) delivered 19 points in the losing case.

USA: Jamychal Green 16, Marcus Denmon 13, John Jenkins 12, Trevor Mbakwe 12+13 boards
Israel: Anton Shoutvin 20, Jared Mintz 19


Mega Vizura inks guard Jeremiah Rivers - by Eurobasket News
Jeremiah Rivers (195-G-87) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American guard penned a deal with Serbian outfit Mega Vizura. The 24-year-old player graduated at the University of Indiana few months ago. He had 3.8 ppg, 3 rpg and 1.7 apg for his school as a senior. Rivers participated at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) after that. He appeared 3 times at this event registering 5.7 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.7 apg. In 2009/10 season, Jeremiah Rivers had 6 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 3.4 apg for Indiana. University of Indiana reached the NCAA Final Four in 2007. They also were Big East Tournament winners that year. In 2008, Indiana was the Big East regular season champion and reached Tournament Finals after that.

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


2011 Universiade. Ukraine coast past New Zealand - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine - New Zealand 84:64

Ukraine celebrated the third win at the World University Games in China. They toppled New Zealand but still could not make it into quarterfinals. Ukraine improved 3-2 record and occupied the third spot in the standings. New Zealand fell at 1-4 record in the fifth position in Group C. Igor Zaitsev (211-F/C-89) stepped up with 19 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners.
Ukraine opened the game on a 10:2 run. They established an 18:12 lead after ten minutes. Ukraine stunned the Kiwis with a 13:0 run at the start of the second quarter to clear off. Ukraine established a 43:29 halftime advantage. The European team maintained the lead throughout the third term. Ukraine entered the fourth frame up by 22 points 64:42. New Zealand never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Dmytro Khodov (201-F-87) posted 13 points, while Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) added 12 points in the win. Justin Richard Edwards (197-F-90) answered with 20 points for New Zealand. Dion Prewster (195-G/F-91, college: Stephen F. Austin) posted 17 points in the losing effort.

Ukraine: Igor Zaitsev 19, Dmytro Khodov 13, Maksym Kornienko 12
New Zealand: Justin Richard Edwards 20, Dion Prewster 17



*****************************************************
  PARAGUAY   


National League Standings. 1ST ROUND.
National League Standings
 1. Felix Perez 0-0 
 2. Libertad 0-0 
 3. San Jose 0-0 
 4. Sol de Amer. 0-0 


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


PBA Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Arizona REID
  Rain or Shine
  (196-F-86)
  Avg: 29.6
 1. Reid, Rain or Shine29.6 
 2. Oguchi, Meralco Bo.25.4 
 3. Forte, Alaska Aces24.9 
 4. Grundy, Petron B.23.8 
 5. Sloan, Ginebra Kin.22.8 
 6. Porter, Powerade.22.5 
 7. Yap, B-Meg Llam.22.2 
 8. Bangura, Air21 E.21.0 
 9. Caguioa, Ginebra20.2 
 10. Mercado, Meralco19.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chris PORTER
  Powerade.
  (201-F-78)
  Avg: 15.8
 1. Porter, Powerade.15.8 
 2. Reid, Rain or Shine15.7 
 3. Forte, Alaska Aces15.0 
 4. Santos, Petron B.13.8 
 5. Taulava, Meralco11.2 
 6. Pingris, B-Meg L.10.4 
 7. Oguchi, Meralco Bo.10.0 
 8. Thoss, Alaska Aces9.7 
 9. Devance, B-Meg L.9.2 
 10. Espinas, Meralco9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Anthony GRUNDY
  Petron B.
  (189-G-79)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Grundy, Petron B.6.9 
 2. Cabagnot, Petron6.3 
 3. Mercado, Meralco6.3 
 4. Sloan, Ginebra Kin.5.5 
 5. Castro, Talk N Te.5.1 
 6. Cruz, Powerade T.4.7 
 7. Alapag, Talk N Te.4.7 
 8. Tenorio, Alaska A.4.5 
 9. Reynolds, Talk N.4.5 
 10. Bangura, Air21 E.4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PORTER
  Powerade.
  (201-F-78)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Porter, Powerade.2.5 
 2. Grundy, Petron B.2.1 
 3. Bangura, Air21 E.2.0 
 4. Hontiveros, Air211.8 
 5. Yap, B-Meg Llam.1.7 
 6. Reynolds, Talk N.1.7 
 7. Tenorio, Alaska A.1.7 
 8. Reyes, Talk N Text1.5 
 9. Arboleda, Air21 E.1.4 
 10. Allen, B-Meg Llam.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Joachim THOSS
  Alaska Aces
  (203-C-81)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Thoss, Alaska Aces1.6 
 2. Seigle, Air21 Expr.1.6 
 3. Santos, Petron B.1.6 
 4. Pingris, B-Meg L.1.3 
 5. Rodriguez, Rain o.1.1 
 6. Peek, Talk N Text1.1 
 7. Devance, B-Meg L.1.1 
 8. Forte, Alaska Aces0.8 
 9. Hontiveros, Air210.8 
 10. Grundy, Petron B.0.7 


2011 Universiade. Japan leave no chance for Philippines - by Eurobasket News
Japan - Philippines 112:44

Japan dismantled Philippines on the final day of preliminary round at World University Games. The victory propelled Japan to 2-3 record in Group C. Philippines on the other hand suffered the fifth loss in a row. Japan started the game aggressively and ensured a 15:3 lead midway through the opening quarter. They posted a 28:11 lead at the first intermission. Japan fired 32 points in the second term to boost the gap to as many as 37 points 60:23. Japan tipped off the third quarter on a 20:5 rally to aggravate the damage. They entered the fourth frame leading by 54 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Daiki Tanaka (191-F-91) posted 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for Japan. Daisuke Kobayashi (188-G-87) and Ruymo Ono (197-F/C-88) notched 14 points each in the win. June Mar Fajardo (196-C-89) and Arvin Kim Gomez (183-F-91) replied with 12 points each for Philippines.

Japan: Daiki Tanaka 21, Daisuke Kobayashi 14, Ruymo Ono 14
Philippines: June Mar Fajardo 12, Arvin Kim Gomez 12


Petron beats Talk 'N Text, takes 3-2 series lead - by Eurobasket News
Talk N Text - Petron Blaze 80-93
Petron went on another blazing start and then held off Talk 'N Text's mini-rally in the stretch for a 93-80 win Wednesday night to move on the verge of bagging the PBA Governor's Cup championship. Arwind Santos (193-F-81) had another import-like game with 20 points and 14 rebounds, while Anthony Grundy (189-G-79, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) played like a true reinforcement with 26 markers, 11 boards and six assists in the emphatic Game 5 victory that gave the injury-plagued Blaze Boosters a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven Finals at the Araneta Coliseum. Petron can wrap up the title series with another win in Friday's Game 6, also at the Big Dome, as it seeks the franchise's 19th championship overall, and perhaps pulling off one the greatest upsets in the league's 36-year history. 'We must grab this opportunity, we're ahead in the series,' Petron coach Ato Agustin said after the Blaze Boosters moved ahead in the series for the second time even without key players Jay Washington (206-C-81, college: Eckerd), Joseph Yeo, Lordy Tugade and Rookie of the Year Rabah Al-Hussaini. Talk 'N Text played minus leading scorer Jason Castro (173-G-86), whom the Tropang Texters coaching staff decided to sit out after the 5-foot-9 playmaker complained of pains in his right knee. Without Castro, who averaged 17.7 in the first four games of the Finals, the Grand Slam-seeking franchise heavily favored to win this series struggled for the second straight game and trailed by 18 points (70-52) late in the third period. The Tropang Texters managed to cut the deficit to single digits, the last at 81-73 on a Ryan Reyes lay up with six minutes to go. But Petron, behind Danny Ildefonso and Alex Cabagnot, went on an 8-1 spurt in the final five minutes to hike the lead back to 88-75 in the final 61 seconds. The Tropang Texters ended up shooting 28-of-84 from the field (33 percent) with Ryan Reyes scoring 14 points. The Blaze Boosters raced to several 11-point leads in the first half, including one following a Grundy three-pointer. Petron led 48-37 at the break. Petron trailed in the first few minutes at 5-1, but then reversed the tide by scoring the next 10 points to take the lead (10-5). Santos' two-handed slam and two free throws by Ildefonso, off an advantage foul by Alapag, gave the Boosters their first sizeable lead, 18-9, 40 seconds left in the opening quarter. The period ended with the Petron on top by 10 (19-9) as they held the Tropang Texters to a single digit output after 12 minutes of play. - JVP, GMA News *Courtesy of www.pba-online.net



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


Portugal edge Hungary in Szolnok, book EuroBasket ticket - by Eurobasket News
Hungary - Portugal 57:66

Portugal will play at 2011 EuroBasket. They overcame Hungary in Szolnok tonight to seal their European Championship birth. Hungary suffered the third loss in a row at EuroBasket Additional Qualifying Tournament and lost any chances of reaching Lithuania.
The teams exchanged baskets throughout the opening frame. Portugal ensured a narrow 20:19 lead at the first break. The visitors opened the second period on a 10:0 run to open an 11-point lead. Soon Portugal ignited a 9:0 rally to take a 39:22 advantage. Portugal established a 45:28 halftime lead. But Hungary did not surrender. They went on a desperate rescue rally with their backs against the wall. Hungary capped the third frame on a 12:3 run to get within 10 points 45:55. Akos Keller (206-F/C-89, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) drained a three-pointer as the hosts cut the deficit at 7 points early in the fourth frame 48:55. But Joao Santos (205-C-79, college: Nevada) answered with 9 points in a row and Portugal never looked back en route to the victory. Joao Santos provided 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Jose Costa (187-G-73) added 10 points for Portugal. Akos Keller replied with 12 points for Hungary. Marton Fodor (191-G-81, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) had 10 points in defeat.

Hungary: Akos Keller 12, Marton Fodor 10
Portugal: Joao Santos 16, Jose Costa 10, Miguel Miranda (205-F-78) 8


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  ROMANIA   


2011 Universiade. Romania thump UAE, enter quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
Romania - UAE 68:37

Romania earned a key victory at World University Games in Shenzhen. They defeated UAE on the final day of the preliminary round to book their spot in quarterfinals. Romania improved at 3-2 record and occupied the second position in Group A. Vlad Moldoveanu (207-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances, college: American) stepped up with impressive 20 points and 18 rebounds to pace the winners. UAE suffered the fifth loss in a row and remained at the bottom of the ladder.
Romania surged ahead early in the encounter and piled up a 22:13 lead at the first intermission. UAE cut the deficit to just six points in the second term but the European team recovered and registered a 31:20 halftime buffer. Romania tipped off the second half on a 12:2 run to take a 21-point advantage. They never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Titus Nicoara (202-F-88, agency: Interperformances) produced 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Andrei Mandache (189-G-87, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 13 points in the winning effort. Omar Alameri (200-F-91) and Jasim Abdalla (202-C-88) replied with 10 points apiece for UAE.

Romania: Vlad Moldoveanu 20+18 boards, Titus Nicoara 17+13 boards, Andrei Mandache 13
UAE: Omar Alameri 10, Jasim Abdalla 10


Romania escaped a narrow win over Albania - by Eurobasket News
Romania-Albania 79:78

Romania escaped a 79:78 narrow win over Albania at the European Championship in Division B. The home side grabbed the valuable victory in Bucharest and improved to 4-2 record.
Franko Bushati (188-G-85) and Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) exchanged the early baskets in the game and Tudor nailed three for 13:10. Eni Cuka (188-G-86) closed the period at 20:16, while Andrei Capusan (201-F-83, agency: Court Side, college: Lafayette) scored for 31:23. Eni Cuka reduced later for 37:35 and Kuqo tied the game at 39:39. Andrei Capusan made two free throws at the end of the half for 41:39 for the home side. Romania improved to 5 more points entering the last period after 23-18 in the third quarter. Aliaj however gave the guests 70:69 lead and Kuqo scored for 78:77. Only two free throws from Andrei Capusan brought the victory for Romania.
Andrei Capusan paced all the winners with 18 points, while Mihail-Octavian Paul (192-G-82) and Ionut Dragusin netted 12 each. Mihai Silvasan (200-F-85, agency: Court Side) followed them with 10 points each. Franko Bushati replied with 24 points in the losing effort as Albania fell at 0-7 record. Kuqo netted 20, whilst Eni Cuka delivered 12.

Romania: Andrei Capusan 18, Mihail-Octavian Paul 12, Ionut Dragusin 12, Mihai Silvasan 10
Albania: Franko Bushati 24, Kuqo 20, Eni Cuka 12


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


2011 Universiade. Russia knock off Lithuania, stay perfect - by Eurobasket News
Russia - Lithuania 77:62

Russia kept their record spotless at the end of preliminary round of World University Games. They held off Lithuania to secure 5-0 record on top of Group C. Ivan Nelyubov (207-C-88) posted 18 points and 10 rebounds to lead the winners. Lithuania fell at 4-1 record after the loss and occupied the second position in the standings.
Russia stayed in front throughout the starting quarter. They recorded a 17:12 lead at the first break. Lithuania opened the second term on a 10:4 run to put their noses in front. The lead changed hands before Russia ensured a 34:30 halftime advantage. The seesaw action continued throughout the third period. Russia managed to post a 51:45 lead at the final break. They stretched the gap to 10 points midway through the fourth frame and never looked back again. Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) posted 16 points, while Andrey Mateyunas (180-PG-88) added 13 points in the win. Gediminas Zyle (209-C-88) answered with 22 points for Lithuania. Marius Valukonis (198-F-88) netted 15 points in the losing case.

Russia: Ivan Nelyubov 18+10 boards, Petr Gubanov 16, Andrey Mateyunas 13
Lithuania: Gediminas Zyle 22, Marius Valukonis 15


Report: Durant has $1 million/month Russian offer - by Eurobasket News
Kevin Durant (206-G/F-88, college: Texas) got some options right now. His agent recently said the Thunder superstar was exploring situations in Spain, Turkey and Russia.

Well, the Russia thing just got a bit more interesting. Because we have an offer. According to Championat.com, via HoopsHype, Russian superpower CSKA Moscow is in talks with Durant's representation for a deal worth around $1 million per month. Not too bad.

If you recall, Kobe's reported offer from China is for something like $1.5 million. So Durant obviously is carrying a similar global reputation. Deron Williams' Turkish deal was only for $250,000 a month.

CSKA Moscow is a team that certainly has big Bucks to throw around as it was formerly owned by current Nets chairman Mikhail Prokhorov. The team has sat atop the Russian league in both money and success for a good number of years.

But it seems like a pretty unlikely end game for Durant. He said recently he was 50-50 on going overseas with a deadline for his decision to be Oct. 1. He doesn't really sound or seem like a player that eager to take his talents across the pond. He's been ripping up every pro-am there is coast-to-coast but eventually he's got to find some real games. Some real competition. There are worse options than Russia, but I'm pretty sure Durant's not going to be stoked about it. He wants to play in the NBA.

What we're seeing with a lot of these rumored deals is that it's posturing from both sides. The team is looking to raise its profile by being 'in talks' with an NBA superstar. Immediately people assume the organization has a bunch of money and credibility to be able to land a player like that. And on the other end, it's a solid bargaining chip for the players to throw in the owners' faces. Really, the only people coming out on the short end of this stuff are fans of the NBA. Awesome for us.

It's a developing situation with Durant. More stuff about it seems to be making the rounds and while I still think it's an unlikely scenario, it's at least a possibility. And getting paid $1 million a month to ball instead of squat to just hoop on a blacktop isn't too bad a Plan B.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

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  RWANDA   


Rwanda National Team Roster 2011 - by Kristian Santiago
These 12 players are competing in Madagascar:

4 Aboubakar Barame (181-G-84)
5 Aristide Mugabe (88)
6 Jean Habineza
7 Ellis Kayijuka (186-G-81, college: Robert Morris)
8 Brad Cameron (193-G)
9 Olivier Muhizi (88)
10 Hamza Ruhezamihigo (191-G-85)
11 Robert Thomson (208-C-82, college: Fairfield)
12 Kenny Wilson (193-G-84, college: Boise St.)
13 Serge Kabange (F/C-83)
14 Matt Miller (182-G-82, college: Bellarmine)
15 Daniel Rugamba (87)

Coach: Veceslav Kavedzija


*****************************************************
  SENEGAL   


26th Afrobasket: Morocco bow to determined Senegal 65-79 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
With defeat steering them in the face Senegal rose to the challenege to subdue Morocco in the last quarter of its group-D tie of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men.

The high tempo game began with both side matching each other wit for wit as the first quarter ended 18 points apiece but it was Morocco who took the initiative in the second quarter with a 25-11 points win to go into the break with a 43-29 points lead.

Moroccos effort at sustaining the tempo was meet with stiff opposition from the Senegalese who knows the importance of winning a first group game, Morocco lost the quarter by 11-24 points as Senegal narrow the margin to just one point going into the last quarter.

The strong determination of the Senegalese side coached by Alain Weisz came to the fore when El-Hadji Ndoye took a three pointer in the opening seconds of the last quarter to put the Lions ahead for the first time in the game, the lead was all they needed as motivation as they never looked back through the buzzer claiming the quarter by 11-26 points for a final score-line of 65-79 points.

Ndoye led the floor with 23 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists, Mouhammad Faye added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists with Malick Badiane grabbing a double double of 14 points and 11 rebounds.
Maleye NDoye (203-F-80, college: Furman)

Sitapha Savane stays with Granca - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria announced signing of a one-year contract extension with Sitapha Savane (202-F-78, college: Navy). The Senegalese/Spanish forward will play his eighth straight season with Granca. In the latest one Savane had 7.4 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 1.1 bpg for 20 games in ACB. He also added 7.9 ppg and 2.6 rpg for 11 EuroCup games. In 2010, Sitapha Savane helped Granca to reach the EuroCup Quarterfinals. He had 6.9 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 1.6 apg in 14 games that season. Savane joined Gran Canaria in 2004 from Tenerife. He also has experience from Menorca, where he played in the past. Sitapha Savane played for the Senegalese NT at the World Championship 2006 in Japan. He ahd 8.6 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 5 games.

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  SERBIA   


Mega Vizura inks guard Jeremiah Rivers - by Eurobasket News
Jeremiah Rivers (195-G-87) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American guard penned a deal with Serbian outfit Mega Vizura. The 24-year-old player graduated at the University of Indiana few months ago. He had 3.8 ppg, 3 rpg and 1.7 apg for his school as a senior. Rivers participated at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) after that. He appeared 3 times at this event registering 5.7 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.7 apg. In 2009/10 season, Jeremiah Rivers had 6 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 3.4 apg for Indiana. University of Indiana reached the NCAA Final Four in 2007. They also were Big East Tournament winners that year. In 2008, Indiana was the Big East regular season champion and reached Tournament Finals after that.

Igokea brings in Nenad Sulovic - by Eurobasket News
Nenad Sulovic (202-F/C-85) will continue his career in Bosnia. The 25-year-old big guy penned a deal with Igokea. Sulovic arrives to his new club from Radnicki Kragujevac, where he finished last season. He joined them in March averaging 10.4 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists for 17 games in Serbian league. They reached Semifinals. Sulovic started last season with Napredak Rubin Krusevac. He shined there with 16 ppg, 6.3 rpg and 2.5 apg for 26 games. Nenad Sulovic split 2009/10 season between Romanian Otopeni and OKK Beograd. He also played for Slovakian Komarno and Polish Polpak Swiecie in the past. Ikogea extended deal Milan Dozet last month.

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  SLOVAKIA   


Czech Republic won over Slovak Republic in Decin - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic Slovak Republic 76:69

Czech Republic remained undefeated at the European Championship in Division B. The team improved to 4-0 record after 76:69 win over Slovak Republic.
Slovak Republic took the early lead while Pavel Houska (201-F-84) tied the game at 7:7. Tomas Pomikalek (200-F-89) scored for 16:13 and Kotas closed the first frame from the perimeter for 23:15. Pavel Houska later brought 27:19 and Kotas added two fro 32:22. The hosts produced 21-16 in the second frame and had 44:31 halftime advantage. Nothing had changed in the third quarter as Czech Republic continued their dominance in the court. Jakub Kudlacek (193-G-90) and Vojtek exchanged the baskets late in the third for 66:49 on the board. Slovak Republic made the final push in the last stanza and after 20-10 record to 7 points at the end.
Lubos Barton (202-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso) stepped up with 13 points for the winners and Jakub Kudlacek netted 12. Pavel Houska delivered 11, while Tomas Pomikalek posted 10. Dusan Pandula (196-F-84) ended up with 13 points, whilst Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports), Roman Marko (195-G-86) and Peter Sedmak (203-C-85) netted 12 apiece.

Czech Republic: Lubos Barton 13, Jakub Kudlacek 12, Pavel Houska 11, Tomas Pomikalek 10
Slovak Republic: Dusan Pandula 13, Anton Gavel 12, Roman Marko 12, Peter Sedmak 12


BC Prievidza announced Roijakkers - by Martin Bosko
The young coach Johan Roijakkers (agency: Prossin Sports Management ) will be the Head Coach of Prievidza in next season. He has six years experience like Coach Assistant from Belgium - Euphony Bree and Dexia Mons-Hainaut. He moved in Prievidza from NBA D-League, where he has cooperated with Chris Finch in Houston Rockets team. Over summer he coached Holland national team U18 in Varna. Prievidza will play this season with young players therefore this club signed Roijakkers

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


Miha Zupan to miss EuroBasket in Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Bad news for the Slovenian National Team. Miha Zupan (205-F/C-82) still struggles with back injury and he will have to receive treatment which will keep him out of the court between 2-3 weeks. Thus coach Bodizar Maljkovic will not be able to count on him in Lithuania. Miha Zupan is active member of the Slovenian National team since 2006. At the latest World Championship in Turkey he had 6.2 ppg and 3.1 rpg for 9 games. Miha Zupan spent last season with Spartak St.Petersburg and he will play there in 2011/12 as well. He appeared 32 times in Russian league averaging 8.6 points and 4.2 rebounds. In EuroChallenge, Zupan added 9.7 ppg and 4.9 rpg for 15 games. Before Spartak, he spent one year with Greek Trikalla. There Zupan had 13.6 ppg and 5.1 rpg in 24 games. In Slovenia, Miha Zupan played for Union Olimpija and Geoplin Slovan.

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  SOUTH AFRICA   


Huge loss for South Africa in Day One of AfroBasket 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Ivory Coast - South Africa 105-53
Cote d'Ivoire open its Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket campaign with a 105-53 points win over South Africa in group-C opener. The 2009 edition runner-up won three of the four quarters by 27-08, 33-10, 29-19 while it drew level with the South African in the last quarter by 16 points apiece for a cumulative scoreline of 105-53 points to send a warning that its 2009 second placement was not a fluke. Cote dIvoire energetic shooting guard/small forward Guy Edi (196-G/F-88) was the star-man of the Ivorian side netting 19 points points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists, Mamadi Diane (196-G/F-86, college: Virginia) added 17 points, 4 rebounds amd 2 steal, Didier Eric Tape had 14 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds while Errick Craven (188-G-83, college: USC) contributed 10 points and 3 steals for the Mdagascar 2011 Afrobasket opening game win for Cote dIvoire. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

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  SOUTH AMERICAN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS  


Street-ball Tour 2011 back in Venezuela - by Wolfgang Lucena
Thanks to former professional basketball player Richard Medina , his company and assistance of the Ministry of Sports, AND1 event becomes a reality, and RM2000 productions is pleased to announce the event that will revolutionize the sport in 2011.Street-basketball returns to Venezuela along with its USA Street basketball stars. This big basketball show will be held in 5 cities of Venezuela's Bolivarian Republic where they will be sharing court time with local amateurs Venezuelan Basketball players. Try Out for street events were held nation wide.
The first event will be host this upcoming September 28th in the Jose Maria Vargas Dome, La Guaira. For further information feel free to contact with Head of Media Geisha Torres doblemarcaje@hotmail.com twitter @geishatorres

source: GEISHA TORRES

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


2011 Universiade. South Korea end preliminary round with victory - by Eurobasket News
South Korea - Hungary 77:73

South Korea registered the second win at World University Games in China. They toppled Hungary to improve at 2-3 record in Group D. Jang Jaeseok (205-C-91) scored 21 points and pulled down 7 rebounds to pace the winners. Hungary in the meantime suffered the fifth loss in a row.
South Korea posted a 23:17 lead ten minutes into the game. They controlled the tempo in the second quarter. The Asian team established a 42:31 halftime advantage. The margin just kept on growing throughout the third period. South Korea piled up a 14-point lead at the final break 61:47. Hungary went on a desperate comeback rally in the fourth quarter. They nearly succeeded cutting the deficit but ran out of time at the end. Lee Jung-Hyun (190-F-87) delivered 20 points, while Park Jae-Hyun (187-G-91) and Choi Bu Kyung (200-F-89) posted 10 points apiece in the win. Ferdinand Morgen (206-F/C-90) answered with 22 points and 17 rebounds for Hungary. Peter Szabo (183-G-89) finished with 12 points in the loss.

South Korea: Jang Jaeseok 21, Lee Jung-Hyun 20, Park Jae-Hyun 10, Choi Bu Kyung 10+11 boards
Hungary: Ferdinand Morgen 22+17 boards, Peter Szabo 12


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


Sitapha Savane stays with Granca - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria announced signing of a one-year contract extension with Sitapha Savane (202-F-78, college: Navy). The Senegalese/Spanish forward will play his eighth straight season with Granca. In the latest one Savane had 7.4 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 1.1 bpg for 20 games in ACB. He also added 7.9 ppg and 2.6 rpg for 11 EuroCup games. In 2010, Sitapha Savane helped Granca to reach the EuroCup Quarterfinals. He had 6.9 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 1.6 apg in 14 games that season. Savane joined Gran Canaria in 2004 from Tenerife. He also has experience from Menorca, where he played in the past. Sitapha Savane played for the Senegalese NT at the World Championship 2006 in Japan. He ahd 8.6 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 5 games.

Oriol Junyent continue with Obradoiro CAB - by Eurobasket News
Oriol Junyent (207-C-76) continue with Obradoiro CAB for the next season. The Spanish Center resigned with the team where he spent the last season.
In 2010/2011for Obradoiro CAB (LEB Gold, starting five) after 45 games he averaged 13.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 72.1%. The season 2009/2010 he spent in two teams.
Last year the 34-year-old centre started the season in Valladolid. In December Oriol Junyent signed for Xacobeo BluSens. He appeared in three ACB games tallying 1.3 points and 0.3 boards per game. In 2007/08 season Oriol Junyent played for Cuidad de Huelva. In LEB he averaged 15.0 points, 9.7 boards and 2.3 assists.
In Round 3 Oriol Junyent put on an amazing game for Obradoiro CAB and received a Eurobasket.com LEB Gold Player of the Week award for round 3. He had a double-double of 20 points and 14 rebounds, while his team outclassed, the league's worst team Huesca with 30-point margin 94-64.


Eduardo Ruiz is confirmed by CB Granada - by Eurobasket News
Eduardo Ruiz (205-F/C-83) is confirmed by CB Granada for 2011/2012 season. The Spanish 205 cm player arrives from Blancos de Rueda Valladolid.
In 2001-2002 he joined Estudiantes Madrid U20 team and after three seasons moved to Rayet Guadalajara (LEB2, starting five). In 35 games there he averaged 7.6ppg, 4.4rpg, 2FGP: 51.0%, 3FGP: 33.3%. After few seasons with Bruesa-Guipuzcoa BC (LEB), C.B.Tarragona (LEB) and AB Pas Pielagos in Dec.'08 moved to Alerta Cantabria Lobos (LEB Bronze) and in 18 games had 6.4ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 57.9%, FT: 73.7%. In 2009-2010 headed to Iraurgi Saski Baloia Lan Mobel (EBA, starting five) and in 39 games averaged 8.4ppg, 7.2rpg, 0.9spg, 0.6bpg, 2FGP: 57%, 3PT: 20%, FT: 67%, also practiced with Lagun Aro (ACB). The last season started for Blancos de Rueda Valladolid (ACB) and in 14 games averaged 1.4ppg.
Three times per season Eduardo Ruiz recorded 5 points for the team. In the last time it happened at the Regular Season Round 33. Baloncesto Fuenlabrada lost to Blancos de Rueda in a road game 68-72. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Baloncesto Fuenlabrada. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 72-68.


Josep Franch moves to Murcia - by Eurobasket News
Murcia managed to get Josep Franch (194-PG-91). They signed him to qualifying offer earlier this summer, but DKV Joventut matched it to keep the player. However, it seems that Franchs desire to join Murcia was strong and two clubs agreed a deal to make this transfer. Finally, Franch will play for Murcia next season. The Spanish point guard is a product of Joventut, where he started as a teenager. He appeared 33 times in ACB last season averaging 5.7 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists. Josep Franch led U20 Spain to Gold medal at the latest European Championships U20 in Bilbao. He shined with 11 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 5.1 apg for 9 games at this event. Franch finished as No.1 in assists. Last summer he won the Bronze with Spain at the European Championships U20 in Croatia. At this event Franch registered 13.2 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 3.7 apg.

Peter Lorant joins Lagun Aro GBC - by Interperformances
The Hungarian power forward Peter Lorant (207-F/C-85) signed yesterday a deal with the Spanish first league team Lagun Aro for the next season. Peter is coming from another Spanish team, Ford Burgos, which he joined back in 2007. In four seasons Peter became one of the best players of the LEB Gold League in his position. Last year he led his team to the playoffs for the promotion, averaging 11.4ppg and 5.4rpg in 27 minutes.
Peter is a member of the Hungarian National Team with which he recently played in the European Championships.

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  TOGO   


Togo National Team Roster 2011 - by Kristian Santiago
This is the suqad of coach Guy Arnaud playing against Tunisia:

4 Rachid Souleymana
5 Bouatiganle Damtare (83)
6 Yao Midodji (87)
7 Sarahbil Boucari (188-G-85, agency: Court Side)
8 Comlan Pinheiro (81)
9 Komi Ayayi (86)
10 Messan Doe-Bruce (86)
11 Komi Kouigan (84)
12 Jimmy Williams (196-G-86, college: Alders.-Broad.)
13 Hassane Fofana (208-C-83, agency: Promotex)
14 Fofana Saibou (86)
15 Mouctar Diaby (206-C-85, college: McMaster)


*****************************************************
  TUNISIA   


Tunisia National Team Roster 2011 - by Kristian Santiago
This guys are currently into action against Togo:

4 Radhouane Slimane (205-C-80)
5 Marouan Laghnej (190-G-86)
6 Amine Maghrebi (192-G/F-84)
7 Mourad El Mabrouk (190-G-86)
8 Marouana Kechrid (178-PG-81)
9 Mohamed Hadidane (206-F-86)<
10 Lassaad Chouaya
11 Mohamed Ghyaza (204-C-86)
12 Macram Romdhane (198-F-89)
13 Amine Rzig (199-G-80)
14 Zied Toumi (186-PG-85)
15 Salah Mejri (216-C-86)

Coach: Adel Tlatli



26th Afrobasket: Mobile Tunisia down Togo 103-56 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Tunisia make mince meat of Togo in its group-D opening game Thursday at the Day-2 of the 26th edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket with a 103-56 points victory.

The 2009 third place finisher showed its determination to be counted among Africa basketball power-house from the jump-ball winning in all four quarters by 28-11, 30-16, 25-13 and 20-16 to put paid to the ambition of the Togolese side of creating an upset.

Tunisia Macram Ben Romdhave led his team with 20 points 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and one block-shot, Mourad El-Mabrouk added 12 points while Salah Mijri contributed 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 block.

Togo shooting guard, Jimmy Williams led the floor with 25 points but the effort was not good enough to see his side go down by 47 points.


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  TURKEY   


2011 Universiade. Turkey stun Australia - by Eurobasket News
Turkey - Australia 82:74

Turkey registered the second win at World University Games. They overcame Australia leaving those with no chance of qualifying into the quarterfinals. Both teams are now tied at 2-2 record in Group B. Ibrahim Yildirim (190-G-90) came up with 22 points to pace the winners.
Australia posted a narrow 20:19 lead ten minutes into the game. They maintained the advantage for some time in the second quarter but Turkey surged ahead late in the first half. They rallied to a 42:33 halftime advantage. Turkey stayed confident throughout the third frame posting a 60:53 lead with ten minutes to go. They stretched the margin in the fourth frame and shielded off the lead till the final buzzer. Can Ozcan (202-F-89) posted 16 points, wjhile Melih Mahmutoglu (193-G-90) and Birkan Batuk (198-F-90) notched 10 points each in the victory. Triantafillos Iliadis (190-G-89) and Ryan Broekhoff (198-F/G-90) responded with 16 points apiece for Australia. Corey Maynard (190-G-91) netted 14 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in the loss.

Turkey: Ibrahim Yildirim 22, Can Ozcan 16, Melih Mahmutoglu 10, Birkan Batuk 10
Australia: Triantafillos Iliadis 16, Ryan Broekhoff 16, Corey Maynard 14


Trabzon adds three players - by Eurobasket News
Trabzon announced signing of Levent Bilgin (206-C-82, agency: EM-PA), Erkan Inan (192-G-89) and Kerem Ozkan (201-F-88, agency: 1x1 Sports) for the next season.
Levent Bilgin heads to his new club from Aliaga, where he spent 2010/11. He appeared 29 times in TBL averaging 4.3 points and 2.7 rebounds. From 2008 to 2010 Bilgin was a member of Kepez. In the past, he played for Beykoz, Besiktas, Fenerbahce and ITU.
Erkan Inan spent last season with Beykoz. He had 15.9 ppg, 4.2 rpg and 2.5 apg for 17 games in TB2L. He also has experience from Banvit and Genc Banvit.
Kerem Ozkan heads to Trabzon from Oyak Renault. He had 7.3 ppg and 3.4 rpg for them last season. In 2009/10, Ozkan played for Besiktas.

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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Hoyas Win NBBA Title - by David Edole
By Dave Davis August 18, 2011

Darnell Hendrickson (188-F) took MVP honors as the Hoyas reclaimed the NBBA Summer Basketball League championship trophy with a well-orchestrated dismantling of defending champions Guidance, 80-68.

Coach Sammie Lee had promised fans a different Hoyas team for game five, after losing game four on Monday, and he delivered with a game plan that appeared to catch Guidance off guard. That game plan apparently was to run the ball, and that they did until they ran Guidance into submission in the fourth quarter.

Guidance, the defending champs, had their moments with a few mini runs, but they just could not sustain any for long. The victory gave the Hoyas their fifth championship in six years and took back the crown they loaned to Guidance in 2010.

The largest crowd of the season turned up Wednesday to watch Virgin Islands basketball at its best. The crowd grew so large the fre department ordered the doors closed because the gym had reached it maximum capacity. No one else was allowed to enter from that point.

Those lucky enough to gain entrance were treated to an atmosphere reminiscent of March Madness, with a packed venue and loud, boisterous fans loyally covered in their teams colors and proudly displaying their banners. Many were on their feet for the entire contest.

Guidance controlled the opening tip, but the quarter belonged to the Hoyas as they made their intention known from their first possession, pushing the ball up the court. They would outscore the defending champs 18-14 in that opening stanza behind eight points from Burger.

Joelfry Polanco came alive in the second period for Guidance with three long three-pointers, but his efforts were negated by a balanced attack from the Hoyas who took the quarter 25-19 for a 10 point lead at the half, 43-33.

It was also a different Burger that the Hoyas fans were seeing as well. He was basically shutdown by the defense of Eric McBean in game four, but Wednesday was a different night and McBean could not keep up.

A 21-16 third period led by the smoking hot hands of Hendrickson, who finished with nine points in the quarter, saw the Hoyas enjoying their biggest lead of the game, 15 points, at 64-49 heading into the final frame.

Showing the heart of a champion, Guidance refused to quit, and after a two-point basket by Kitwana Rhymer (208-C-78, college: Massachusetts) and back-to-back three-pointers by McBean, they were back in the game, down by just seven.

But they would get no closer. The Hoyas quickly righted the ship and restored order. Guidance did take the closing quarter 19-16 but it not nearly enough. Rhymer tried to do it all by himself with 10 points in the period, but he was visibly gassed in the final couple of minutes.

Hendrickson led all scorers with a game-high 27 points for the winners. He was ably supported by twin brothers Karl and Kurt John. Kurt finished with 15 points and 16 rebounds and Karl had 14 points and 11 boards. Quinton Q Guirty, who made a huge difference defensively for the Hoyas, finished with 13 points. Rhymer led three Guidance players in double figures with 25 points. McBean finished with 14 and Polanco netted 13.



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  UKRAINE   


Ukraine national team defeat Lebanon - by Alexei Revenko
Ukrainian National Team basketball office report that today in Turkey Ukrainian National Team national team played a friendly game against Lebanon. In this game the statistics were not conducted. First half Ukraine win 39:18. After that second half teams start played with score 0-0. Ukraine win this half 35-33. Total score of this game 74-51.
Ukrainian National Team national team continue prepare for the Euro championship. One of the leader of the national team Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) came back after injury.

2011 Universiade. Ukraine coast past New Zealand - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine - New Zealand 84:64

Ukraine celebrated the third win at the World University Games in China. They toppled New Zealand but still could not make it into quarterfinals. Ukraine improved 3-2 record and occupied the third spot in the standings. New Zealand fell at 1-4 record in the fifth position in Group C. Igor Zaitsev (211-F/C-89) stepped up with 19 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners.
Ukraine opened the game on a 10:2 run. They established an 18:12 lead after ten minutes. Ukraine stunned the Kiwis with a 13:0 run at the start of the second quarter to clear off. Ukraine established a 43:29 halftime advantage. The European team maintained the lead throughout the third term. Ukraine entered the fourth frame up by 22 points 64:42. New Zealand never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Dmytro Khodov (201-F-87) posted 13 points, while Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) added 12 points in the win. Justin Richard Edwards (197-F-90) answered with 20 points for New Zealand. Dion Prewster (195-G/F-91, college: Stephen F. Austin) posted 17 points in the losing effort.

Ukraine: Igor Zaitsev 19, Dmytro Khodov 13, Maksym Kornienko 12
New Zealand: Justin Richard Edwards 20, Dion Prewster 17



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  UNITED ARAB EMIRATES   


2011 Universiade. Romania thump UAE, enter quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
Romania - UAE 68:37

Romania earned a key victory at World University Games in Shenzhen. They defeated UAE on the final day of the preliminary round to book their spot in quarterfinals. Romania improved at 3-2 record and occupied the second position in Group A. Vlad Moldoveanu (207-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances, college: American) stepped up with impressive 20 points and 18 rebounds to pace the winners. UAE suffered the fifth loss in a row and remained at the bottom of the ladder.
Romania surged ahead early in the encounter and piled up a 22:13 lead at the first intermission. UAE cut the deficit to just six points in the second term but the European team recovered and registered a 31:20 halftime buffer. Romania tipped off the second half on a 12:2 run to take a 21-point advantage. They never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Titus Nicoara (202-F-88, agency: Interperformances) produced 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Andrei Mandache (189-G-87, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 13 points in the winning effort. Omar Alameri (200-F-91) and Jasim Abdalla (202-C-88) replied with 10 points apiece for UAE.

Romania: Vlad Moldoveanu 20+18 boards, Titus Nicoara 17+13 boards, Andrei Mandache 13
UAE: Omar Alameri 10, Jasim Abdalla 10


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


Croatia post second straight win in London - by Eurobasket News
Croatia - Great Britain 75:70

Croatia registered the second consecutive victory at London Invitational Tournament. They fired past Great Britain behind 16 points from Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85). Great Britain suffered the second loss in a row.
The hosts got to a confident start. They posted an 18:12 lead at the first break. But Croatia turned things upside down in the second frame. They limited Great Britain to only 5 points in the quarter building a 35:23 halftime lead. Croatia erupted for 28 points in the third frame to boost the gap at 16-point mark at the final intermission. Great Britain cut the deficit to just three points midway through the fourth frame 66:69. But Ante Tomic (217-C-87), Andic and Krunoslav Simon sealed the victory for Croatia at the end. Ante Tomic knocked down 12 points, while Marko Tomas (201-G-85) added 9 points in the victory. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) responded with 22 points and 9 rebounds for Great Britain. Andrew Lawrence (185-G-90) and Daniel Clark (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) had 10 points each in the loss.

Croatia: Krunoslav Simon 16, Ante Tomic 12, Marko Tomas 9
Great Britain: Joel Freeland 22, Andrew Lawrence 10, Daniel Clark 10


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  VENEZUELA   


Street-ball Tour 2011 back in Venezuela - by Wolfgang Lucena
Thanks to former professional basketball player Richard Medina , his company and assistance of the Ministry of Sports, AND1 event becomes a reality, and RM2000 productions is pleased to announce the event that will revolutionize the sport in 2011.Street-basketball returns to Venezuela along with its USA Street basketball stars. This big basketball show will be held in 5 cities of Venezuela's Bolivarian Republic where they will be sharing court time with local amateurs Venezuelan Basketball players. Try Out for street events were held nation wide.
The first event will be host this upcoming September 28th in the Jose Maria Vargas Dome, La Guaira. For further information feel free to contact with Head of Media Geisha Torres doblemarcaje@hotmail.com twitter @geishatorres

source: GEISHA TORRES

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  WORLD UNIVERSITY GAMES   


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Germany5-0
2. Romania3-2
3. Czech Rep.3-2
4. Brazil3-2
5. China1-4
6. UAE0-5
Group B
1. Canada3-1
2. Serbia3-1
3. Turkey2-2
4. Australia2-2
5. Hong Kong0-4
Group C
1. Russia5-0
2. Lithuania4-1
3. Ukraine3-2
4. Japan2-3
5. N.Zealand1-4
6. Philippines0-5
Group D
1. USA5-0
2. Finland3-2
3. Mexico3-2
4. Israel2-3
5. S.Korea2-3
6. Hungary0-5


Preliminary Round ends in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Group A
United Arab Emirates - Romania 37-68
Romania earned a key victory at World University Games in Shenzhen. They defeated UAE on the final day of the preliminary round to book their spot in quarterfinals. Romania improved at 3-2 record and occupied the second position in Group A. Vlad Moldoveanu (207-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances, college: American) stepped up with impressive 20 points and 18 rebounds to pace the winners. UAE suffered the fifth loss in a row and remained at the bottom of the ladder. Romania surged ahead early in the encounter and piled up a 22:13 lead at the first intermission. UAE cut the deficit to just six points in the second term but the European team recovered and registered a 31:20 halftime buffer. Romania tipped off the second half on a 12:2 run to take a 21-point advantage. They never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Titus Nicoara (202-F-88, agency: Interperformances) produced 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Andrei Mandache (189-G-87, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 13 points in the winning effort. Omar Alameri (200-F-91) and Jasim Abdalla (202-C-88) replied with 10 points apiece for UAE.

Brazil - Czech Republic 69-85
Czech Republic overcame Brazil on the final day of preliminary round at World University Games in Shenzhen. Petr Dokoupil (191-G-88) stepped up with 22 points to lead the European side. Both teams are now locked at 3-2 record in Group A ladder. Czech Republic set the tone early in the game. They held Brazil to 10 points in the opening frame to post an 8-point lead 18:10. The Czech team stretched the margin to 14 points midway through the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 12 points 44:32. Brazil trimmed the deficit but still trailed by as many as 7 points at the final intermission 45:52. Czech Republic quickly boosted the gap to double figures in the fourth term and never looked back en route to the victory. Vojtech Hruban (200-F-89) accounted for 19 points, while Tomas Macela (179-G-88) finished with 13 points in the win. Ralfi Ansaloni (211-C-87) answered with 21 points for Brazil. Michael Machado (185-G-90) posted 20 points in defeat.

China - Germany 51-75
Germany stayed perfect at World University Games in Shenzhen. They overwhelmed China tonight to clinch 5-0 record on top of Group A advancing into quarterfinal round. Johannes Lischka (203-F/C-87) stepped up with 15 points for Germany. China in the meantime fell at 1-4 record in the fourth place in the ladder. China managed to pull in front and maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter. The hosts secured an 18:16 lead at the first break. But Germany opened the second term on a 10:1 run to spur in front. The visitors established a 33:28 halftime advantage. Germany capped the third term on a 12:2 run to clear off to a 21-point distance. Germany stayed comfortable in charge throughout the fourth frame and drove to the victory at the end. Jonas Wohlfarth-Bottermann (207-C-90, agency: Court Side) and Karsten Tadda (189-G-88, agency: Pro One Sports) posted 11 points apiece for the winners. Li Yuanyu (206-C-91) responded with 15 points for China. Shi Hongfei (180-PG-93) had 8 points in the losing effort.

Group B
Turkey - Australia 82-74
Turkey registered the second win at World University Games. They overcame Australia leaving those with no chance of qualifying into the quarterfinals. Both teams are now tied at 2-2 record in Group B. Ibrahim Yildirim (190-G-90) came up with 22 points to pace the winners. Australia posted a narrow 20:19 lead ten minutes into the game. They maintained the advantage for some time in the second quarter but Turkey surged ahead late in the first half. They rallied to a 42:33 halftime advantage. Turkey stayed confident throughout the third frame posting a 60:53 lead with ten minutes to go. They stretched the margin in the fourth frame and shielded off the lead till the final buzzer. Can Ozcan posted 16 points, wjhile Melih Mahmutoglu (193-G-90) and Birkan Batuk (198-F-90) notched 10 points each in the victory. Triantafillos Iliadis (190-G-89) and Ryan Broekhoff (198-F/G-90) responded with 16 points apiece for Australia. Corey Maynard (190-G-91) netted 14 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in the loss.

Canada - Hong Kong 83-50
Canada registered the third win at World University Games in China. They overcame Hong Kong to clinch the top position in Group B. Warren Ward (196-G-89) accounted for 17 points to lead the effort. Hong Kong suffered the fourth straight defeat at the tournament. Honk Kong came up with arguably their best performance at the tournament when they stayed in charge against Canada in the first period. Canada eventually denied the deficit and levelled things up at 14 after ten minutes. But the North American side shook off sloppiness and erupted for an 18:4 run at the start of the second period. Canada built a 40:22 lead at the interval. They dominated in the third term recording a 60:34 advantage into the fourth period. Canada never slowed down and rolled to a confident win at the end. Jahmal Jones (183-PG-91) and Cole Hobin (198-G-89) delivered 12 points each in the victory. Mok Ka Chun (203-C-88) and Chan Yik Lun (190-G-87) answered with 8 points apiece in the loss.

Group C
Japan - Philippines 112-44
Japan dismantled Philippines on the final day of preliminary round at World University Games. The victory propelled Japan to 2-3 record in Group C. Philippines on the other hand suffered the fifth loss in a row. Japan started the game aggressively and ensured a 15:3 lead midway through the opening quarter. They posted a 28:11 lead at the first intermission. Japan fired 32 points in the second term to boost the gap to as many as 37 points 60:23. Japan tipped off the third quarter on a 20:5 rally to aggravate the damage. They entered the fourth frame leading by 54 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Daiki Tanaka (191-F-91) posted 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for Japan. Daisuke Kobayashi (188-G-87) and Ruymo Ono (197-F/C-88) notched 14 points each in the win. June Mar Fajardo (196-C-89) and Arvin Kim Gomez (183-F-91) replied with 12 points each for Philippines.

New Zealand - Ukraine 64-84
Ukraine celebrated the third win at the World University Games in China. They toppled New Zealand but still could not make it into quarterfinals. Ukraine improved 3-2 record and occupied the third spot in the standings. New Zealand fell at 1-4 record in the fifth position in Group C. Igor Zaitsev (211-F/C-89) stepped up with 19 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners. Ukraine opened the game on a 10:2 run. They established an 18:12 lead after ten minutes. Ukraine stunned the Kiwis with a 13:0 run at the start of the second quarter to clear off. Ukraine established a 43:29 halftime advantage. The European team maintained the lead throughout the third term. Ukraine entered the fourth frame up by 22 points 64:42. New Zealand never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Dmytro Khodov (201-F-87) posted 13 points, while Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) added 12 points in the win. Justin Richard Edwards (197-F-90) answered with 20 points for New Zealand. Dion Prewster (195-G/F-91, college: Stephen F. Austin) posted 17 points in the losing effort.

Russia - Lithuania 77-62
Russia kept their record spotless at the end of preliminary round of World University Games. They held off Lithuania to secure 5-0 record on top of Group C. Ivan Nelyubov (207-C-88) posted 18 points and 10 rebounds to lead the winners. Lithuania fell at 4-1 record after the loss and occupied the second position in the standings. Russia stayed in front throughout the starting quarter. They recorded a 17:12 lead at the first break. Lithuania opened the second term on a 10:4 run to put their noses in front. The lead changed hands before Russia ensured a 34:30 halftime advantage. The seesaw action continued throughout the third period. Russia managed to post a 51:45 lead at the final break. They stretched the gap to 10 points midway through the fourth frame and never looked back again. Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) posted 16 points, while Andrey Mateyunas (180-PG-88) added 13 points in the win. Gediminas Zyle (209-C-88) answered with 22 points for Lithuania. Marius Valukonis (198-F-88) netted 15 points in the losing case.

Group D
Mexico - Finland 62-73
Finland advanced into the World University Games quarterfinals. They held off Mexico in the crucial encounter in Group D to clinch the second position. Antti Kanervo (193-G/F-89) stepped up with 20 points to lead the charge. Mexico fell at the third spot in the ladder. Mexico stormed into the game. They led 12:3 midway through the opening quarter. Mexico secured a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. But Finland gradually picked up the tempo. The European team erased the deficit and levelled things up at 40 after twenty minutes. Finland pulled in front early in the third frame. They registered a 52:45 lead in the third term. But Mexico capped the quarter on a 10:3 run to draw things level. The teams stayed knotted at 61 midway through the fourth period. But then Finland triggered a 12:1 surge and raced to the victory at the end. Matti Nuutinen (200-F-90) posted 12 points and 16 rebounds, while Antto Nikkarinen (185-PG-91) and Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) added 11 points each in the win. Gabriel Giron (192-F-88) answered with 19 points for Mexico. Cesar Del Campo (194-F-87) and Francisco Cruz (191-G-89) had 13 points each in the loss.

USA - Israel 94-84
USA earned the fifth straight win at World University Games in Shenzhen. They prevailed against Israel in a tough battle on the final day of preliminary round action. Jamychal Green (206-F-90) stepped up with 16 points to pace the winners. Israel fell at 2-3 record in the fourth position in Group D. USA stayed in charge throughout the opening frame. They recorded a 27:23 lead after ten minutes. But Israel denied the deficit. They pulled in front for a 43:41 halftime advantage. Israel stayed in front for some time in the third term. However the North American team stepped on the gas and snatched a 70:62 lead with one quarter remaining. They cleared off to a double-digit lead midway through the fourth quarter. Israel tried hard to erase the deficit but the USA hung on to celebrate yet another win at the tournament. Marcus Denmon (190-G-90) posted 13 points, while John Jenkins (193-G-91) and Trevor Mbakwe (203-F-89) had 12 points apiece for the USA. Anton Shoutvin (206-C/F-89) answered with 20 points for Israel. Jared Mintz (205-F-88, college: Lafayette) delivered 19 points in the losing case.



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  ZIMBABWE   


Heats big three walk the talk . - by Thomas Fink

Saturday, 23 July 2011 23:39 Sport

By Tinashe Kusema
MBARE Heat stand on the threshold of greatness! Having already conquered the country, the team from the high-density suburb of Mbare is only months away from their biggest test ever the Zone Six Basketball Club Championship qualifiers and more importantly an opportunity to silence all their critics.

In just one season the team has gone from being a mere basement outfit to collecting everything on offer and much of that success can easily be traced back to their big three. Eric Banda, Vitalis Chikoko and Tawanda Chitsinde form one of the most exciting and lethal offences in the countrys basketball history and their energy alongside coach Peter Mubandas expertise have given rise to a suffocating defence. However, it is not a coincidence that three of the most exciting local prospects all happen to play for the same team as this is their second year together.

The trio was part of the five players that subsequently jumped ship from former champions JBC to Mbare Heat. In fact, they were part of JBCs starting five alongside namesakes Simbarashe Murawa and Simbarashe Ngombe. At JBC all five attained more or less the same success but without as much fun and pomp.
This begs the question, why?

Well, there was no malice or controversy behind our move from JBC, but someone came to us with the promise of a better life, financially, and up to this juncture he has managed to keep the promises. Due to the fact that our financial needs are all catered for, we now have more time to concentrate on our game and the results speak for themselves, said Banda.
Lack of sponsorship within the league remains the sports biggest challenge and as such most teams, with the exception of one, have failed to reach their full potential. It is this reason that seems to bond the three musketeers on the road to glory that they find themselves on today which has been an arduous one full of many roadblocks.

Young playmaker Chitsindes story began in 2004 when he was introduced late into the sport while still at Churchill Boys High. He impressed Cameos Roderick Takawira so much, forcing him into a duel with other scouts for the 23-year-olds signature, a contest he eventually won.
At Cameo he played two seasons, winning two league titles and a national championship after which Chitsinde followed Takawira to Sigauke in 2006 though for three trophyless seasons. After cutting ties with

Sigauke he joined JBC, winning the league and another national championship title between 2009 and 2010.
Chikoko, on the other hand, has a less glamourous tale as the centre has one league and national title, which he won last year under JBC after spending most of his career at Nuggets and Raiderz.
The highlight of his career came during the 2009 Zone Six Club Championships where an impressive showing almost saw him whisked away to Angola where a couple of teams showed interest in acquiring his services, deals that failed to materialise.

Banda, who rounds off the big three, is probably the most experienced of the trio and is known in some quarters as the most travelled player in the leagues history.
A former national team skipper, Banda has played teams in three different provinces winning numerous league and national titles with Giants, JBC and Celtics.
To date, he has 11 MVP crowns and over 20 national team caps, with the highlight of his career being winning Mozambiques first-tier league title with Maxaquene.

To this day he holds the record for being the only player to win the national league four times in a row, albeit with different clubs.
That pretty much sums up their individual journeys from 2000-2010, bringing to their decision to dump JBC and join Mbare Heat.
The move has, however, tainted Bandas reputation but catapulted Chikoko and Chitsinde to the next level.

Chitsinde and Chikoko were the first to move along with two other players in January earlier this year but were joined by Banda the following month.
We were all offered different packages to join with most players jumping ship in January whereas I followed a month later.
We have no regrets about the move we made and given a second chance to do it again, we will make the same decision without a second thought. What most people dont understand is that this is the nearest we have gotten to being proper professionals and can concentrate on basketball knowing that everything else is catered for, said Chitsinde.

On paper this is the closest the country might get to a properly assembled and professional team that money can buy, as Mubanda currently has the cream of Zimbabwe Basketball blending both youth and experience.

In Chikoko, Heat have one of the most imposing players in the league today a triple threat player, great rebounder, good shooter and amongst the best blockers of the crop of upcoming players.
Some have likened him to NBA legend Kareem Abdul Jabbar due to his lanky physical demeanour and imposing game, while in Chitsinde Heat have a pair of the fastest legs in the game whose shooting skills are but a welcome bonus.

Banda, arguably the best of the three, has a resume a mile long and enemies to match. His rebounding and in-ring shooting make him an indispensable asset to any and all the teams he has ever played for.
Collectively, there have over 12 league titles, 10 national championships between them and confidence to match.

Our resumes speak for themselves as in one season not only did we win everything on offer but we only lost twice, namely to Raiderz and Mercenaries, teams we later on went to defeat when it mattered the most.

This is not a fly-by-night kind of thing, for we intend to take the HBA, National League and region by storm and be the best team in the region, said Banda.
Their bench comprises a couple of national team players like Murawa, Ngombe, future talents Nathan Warikanda and Farai Mupasiri who complement their star players.

With the 2011 season and all its success behind, Mbare Heat now have their eyes firmly fixed on the region where they have earned the right to represent the country at the Zone Six Club Championships.
We have been putting a lot of hours in the gym and plan to at least beat the Mozambicans and compete against the Angolans, said Banda.

We know its not going to happen overnight and from a players point of view, we believe the only piece of the puzzle missing is another experienced player or two.
The talent and self-belief is there in abundance which should see us cause an upset or two this edition but come back to conquer next year should we fail, said Chitsinde.
The only cloud on the horizon is whether Banda will stay at the club. Although he has reaffirmed his loyalty to Mbare Heat, he still has a year left in his contract with Mozambican giants Maxaquene.

At the moment I am totally and wholeheartedly committed to Mbare Heat, but that is not to say that I have closed the door on other options. My focus is on regaining my fitness to suit the levels of the Mozambican league where two to three games are played in one week. Should the time come that I can now compete, injuries aside, then I will reassess my future there, he said.-The Sunday Mail




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Women News

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


2011 Universiade. Australia advanced to the Final Four of the World University Games in China - by Eurobasket News
Australia-Canada 79:44

Australia advanced to the Final Four of the World University Games in China 2011. The team edged Canada 79:44 in the Quarterfinal clash on Thursday.
Canada opened the game with 5-0 run, but Australian side replied with 14-0 run. Pinske scored for 14:7, while the favorites never looked behind after. Ebzery closed the frame at 25:14 and Tess Madgen (180-G/F-90) added two in the start of the second. Both teams added 16 points each for their account in the second frame that brought 41:30 at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Australia erupted with 27-9 for 68:39 at the end of thirty minutes. Another 11-5 in the last stanza sent them to the Top 4 in China.
Tess Madgen and Cayla Francis (192-C-89) stepped up with 14 points for the winners. Abby Bishop (189-C-88) nailed 12, while Mia Newley (184-G-88) added 10. Kendel Ross (185-G/F-88, college: Dayton) ended up with 15 points in the losing effort, whilst Justine Colley (175-G-91) scored 10.

Australia: Tess Madgen 14, Cayla Francis 14, Abby Bishop 12, Mia Newley 10
Canada: Kendel Ross 15, Justine Colley 10


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  BELGIUM - Women  


U16 Belgium wins Group E in Cagliari, looks forward to Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
U16 CZECH REPUBLIC - U16 BELGIUM 59-75

Belgium won the Qualifying Group E in Cagliari with almost perfect 4-1 record and will meet France in the Quarterfinals. It was a 75-59 victory against Czech Republic, who dropped to 1-4 record and failed to reach the next stage. They will continue in Classification Round from 9-12 place. Czech Republic ended as No.5 of Group E. Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-G/F-95) led the winners in scoring with 22 points. An-Katrien Nauwelaers (178-F-95) followed her with 15 pts, while Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) added 8. In the loosing squad, Mariana Opocenska (183-F-95) was better than the others with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Sarah Berankova (174-PG-96) collected 8 points and 5 rebs. Quarters: 26-15, 13-21, 10-18, 10-21. Championship continues on Friday.

Czech Republic: Mariana Opocenska 14+7 boards, Sarah Berankova 8+5 boards
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 22, An-Katrien Nauwelaers 15, Julie Allemand 8

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  BRAZIL - Women  


Surprising Chinese Taipei reaches Semifinal Stage - by Eurobasket News
Chinese Taipei-Brazil 65:54

Surprising Chinese Taipei reaches Semifinal Stage at the World University Games in China 2011. The team edged Brazil to be the only representative from Asia in the Top 4.
It was a tough start and both teams paid too much attention to defense. The Asian team started with 6:4 and then increased to 19:10 after the first 10 minutes. In the second frame both teams nailed 8 points apiece for 27:18 at the halftime. Although Brazil cut it to 10 points midway through the third frame, Chinese Taipei grabbed 47:31 after thirty minutes. Brazil again came back to 9 points with 5 minutes to go, but could not come closer.
Huang Ping-Jen (178-F-89) poured in 21 points to lead the charge. Hsu Chien-Hui (171-G/F-89) and Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) followed her with 14 points each, while Huang Fan-Shan (173-G-87) scored 10. Nadia Calhado (196-C-89) answered with 24 points in the losing effort Leila Zabani (180-G/F-91) 9, Tassia Carcavalli (179-F-92) 9

Chinese Taipei: Huang Ping-Jen 21, Hsu Chien-Hui 14, Chen Yu-Chun 14, Huang Fan-Shan 10
Brazil: Nadia Calhado 24, Leila Zabani 9, Tassia Carcavalli 9


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  BULGARIA - Women  


U16 Bulgaria makes it in do-or-die game against U16 Denmark - by Eurobasket News
U16 DENMARK - U16 BULGARIA 57-67

U16 Bulgaria handed 67-57 loss to U16 Denmark in do-or-die game yesterday. Thanks to this win Bulgaria jumped to third place in Group F and reached the Quarterfinals. Their rival will be Portugal. Denmark also has 2-3 record, but they ended as No.5 and failed to reach the next stage. Denmark will continue in Classification round from 9-12 place. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) paced Bulgaria to victory with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Maria Kamburova (182-F-96) followed her with 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Iva Georgieva (172-F-96) added 9 pts. On the other side, Denmark got 17 points and 12 rebounds from Sofie Preetzmann (180-G-95). Kia Fisker (185-F/C-95) had 9 pts and 6 rebs. Quarters: 20-13, 9-17, 19-20, 9-17. Championship continues tomorrow.

Denmark: Sofie Preetzmann 17+12 boards, Kia Fisker 9+6 boards
Bulgaria: Borislava Hristova 21+8 boards, Maria Kamburova 14+11 boards, Iva Georgieva 9

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  CANADA - Women  


Mississippi Rebels defeat UFV Cascades, 85-69 - by Eurobasket News
ABBOTSFORD, B.C. - The University of Mississippi Rebels (SEC-NCAA) defeated the UFV Cascades (Canada West-CIS), 85-69, in preseason exhibition women's basketball game at Envision Athletic Centre. The Cascades preseason record stands at 0-1. They play the University of Louisville Cardinals (Big East-NCAA), August 14th, at 7:00PM. -

The Rebels jumped out to an early lead but the Cascades stayed with their NCAA opponents holding the Rebels to 20 first quarter points and trailed by only four points after the first quarter. In the second UFV held Old Miss to 17 points and went into the intermission down by only 4 points, 37-33. Aieisha Luyken, Mission, BC led all Cascades with 6 points at halftime. Tessa Klassen, Winnipeg, Manitoba led all Cascades with 4 total rebounds at the break.

In the second half, the Rebels outscored UFV by 12 points to earn the 16 point victory, 85-69.

Klassen led all Cascades with a team high 17 point performance, 6 total rebounds and 4 assists. Courtney Bartel (175-G), Chilliwack, BC added 13 points and Luyken 10 points in the loss to Mississippi. Klassen and Sarah Wierks (188-F), Chilliwack, BC led the Cascades with 6 total rebounds. The Rebels top scorer was Whitney Harneth, Dumas, Arkansas with a game high 21 points.

Mississippi 20 17 25 23 = 85
UFV 16 17 19 17 = 69

Top Scorer:
Mississippi: Harneth 21 points/ UFV: Klassen 17 points

Team Rebounds:
Mississippi: 15+23=38/ UFV: 7+23=30
Courtesy of: english.cis-sic.ca

2011 Universiade. Australia advanced to the Final Four of the World University Games in China - by Eurobasket News
Australia-Canada 79:44

Australia advanced to the Final Four of the World University Games in China 2011. The team edged Canada 79:44 in the Quarterfinal clash on Thursday.
Canada opened the game with 5-0 run, but Australian side replied with 14-0 run. Pinske scored for 14:7, while the favorites never looked behind after. Ebzery closed the frame at 25:14 and Tess Madgen (180-G/F-90) added two in the start of the second. Both teams added 16 points each for their account in the second frame that brought 41:30 at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Australia erupted with 27-9 for 68:39 at the end of thirty minutes. Another 11-5 in the last stanza sent them to the Top 4 in China.
Tess Madgen and Cayla Francis (192-C-89) stepped up with 14 points for the winners. Abby Bishop (189-C-88) nailed 12, while Mia Newley (184-G-88) added 10. Kendel Ross (185-G/F-88, college: Dayton) ended up with 15 points in the losing effort, whilst Justine Colley (175-G-91) scored 10.

Australia: Tess Madgen 14, Cayla Francis 14, Abby Bishop 12, Mia Newley 10
Canada: Kendel Ross 15, Justine Colley 10


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  CHINA - Women  


2011 Universiade. China overcame Slovak Republic at the Classification Round for 9-16 places - by Eurobasket News
China-Slovak Republic 75:53

China overcame Slovak Republic at the Classification Round for 9-16 places in the World University Games. The home side needed 75:53 and will play for 9-12 places.
Slovak Republic grabbed 6-2 in the opening tip, but lost the first frame 16:14. The hosts of the tournament led 25:20 after 15 minutes of the game and reached 37:31 at the halftime. They continued to dominate the court and increased to 48:37 midway through the third frame. After 18-16 in it China had 55:47 after thirty minutes in the court. Another defensive 20-6 in the last stanza brought the victory for the Asian team.
Wang Yajie (183-F-89) erupted with 27 points, while Shao Ting (183-F-89) notched 15. Zhai Huan (178-F-89) nailed 11, while Wang Miqi (185-F-89) posted 10. Katarina Tetemondova (187-F-88) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort and Eva Kmetova (188-C-87) added 10.

China: Wang Yajie 27, Shao Ting 15, Zhai Huan 11, Wang Miqi 10
Slovak Republic: Katarina Tetemondova 13, Eva Kmetova 10

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  CROATIA - Women  


UNB Obenasa Lacturale inks Amra Dapo - by Eurobasket News
Amra Dapo (184-G/F-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas) is a new member of UNB Obenasa Lacturale. The Croatian guard/small forward signed a deal for the next season. She spent last four years with Hondarribia-Irun. Dapo appeared 25 times in LFB last season averaging 7.5 points, 4 rebounds and 1.5 assists. Two years ago she had much better digits. For 26 games in 2009/10, Amra Dapo shined with 14.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1.6 apg. He joined Hondarribia-Irun in 2008 from Badajoz. In the past, Amra Dapo spent two years with MiZo Pecs. They won two Hungarian league titles and two Cups together. Dapo also has experience from Real Canoe, Perfumerias and Navarra.

U16 Croatia grabs 72-69 win against U16 Poland in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 POLAND - U16 CROATIA 69-72

Croatia made a step closer to survival in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They grabbed 72-69 win against Poland for 2-1 record in Group G. On the other side, Poland dropped to 1-2 after this loss but there are three more games to be played. Lana Racki (167-PG-96) led Croatia in scoring with 16 points. Inja Butina (170-PG-95) had 14 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists, while Ivana Matic (181-F-95) also helped with 14 pts. In Poland, Monika Buczak (166-PG-95) delivered 20 points. Their second scorer was Magdalena Pisera (176-G-95) with 10 points. Quarters: 23-15, 14-12, 16-13, 16-32. In the next game Croatia will meet Finland. Poland will take on unbeaten Serbia.

Poland: Monika Buczak 20, Magdalena Pisera 10
Croatia: Lana Racki 16, Inja Butina 14+6 boards+10 as, Ivana Matic 14

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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


U16 Belgium wins Group E in Cagliari, looks forward to Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
U16 CZECH REPUBLIC - U16 BELGIUM 59-75

Belgium won the Qualifying Group E in Cagliari with almost perfect 4-1 record and will meet France in the Quarterfinals. It was a 75-59 victory against Czech Republic, who dropped to 1-4 record and failed to reach the next stage. They will continue in Classification Round from 9-12 place. Czech Republic ended as No.5 of Group E. Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-G/F-95) led the winners in scoring with 22 points. An-Katrien Nauwelaers (178-F-95) followed her with 15 pts, while Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) added 8. In the loosing squad, Mariana Opocenska (183-F-95) was better than the others with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Sarah Berankova (174-PG-96) collected 8 points and 5 rebs. Quarters: 26-15, 13-21, 10-18, 10-21. Championship continues on Friday.

Czech Republic: Mariana Opocenska 14+7 boards, Sarah Berankova 8+5 boards
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 22, An-Katrien Nauwelaers 15, Julie Allemand 8

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  DENMARK - Women  


U16 Bulgaria makes it in do-or-die game against U16 Denmark - by Eurobasket News
U16 DENMARK - U16 BULGARIA 57-67

U16 Bulgaria handed 67-57 loss to U16 Denmark in do-or-die game yesterday. Thanks to this win Bulgaria jumped to third place in Group F and reached the Quarterfinals. Their rival will be Portugal. Denmark also has 2-3 record, but they ended as No.5 and failed to reach the next stage. Denmark will continue in Classification round from 9-12 place. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) paced Bulgaria to victory with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Maria Kamburova (182-F-96) followed her with 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Iva Georgieva (172-F-96) added 9 pts. On the other side, Denmark got 17 points and 12 rebounds from Sofie Preetzmann (180-G-95). Kia Fisker (185-F/C-95) had 9 pts and 6 rebs. Quarters: 20-13, 9-17, 19-20, 9-17. Championship continues tomorrow.

Denmark: Sofie Preetzmann 17+12 boards, Kia Fisker 9+6 boards
Bulgaria: Borislava Hristova 21+8 boards, Maria Kamburova 14+11 boards, Iva Georgieva 9

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  ESTONIA - Women  


U16 Latvia heads to Quarterfinals, U16 Estonia to Classification Round in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 LATVIA - U16 ESTONIA 59-67

Estonia crushed Latvia 67-59 for their first win in Qualifying Group E. However, it was not enough for them to avoid the last place in this pool with 1-4 record. On the other side, Latvia finished as No.3 with 2-3 score. They advanced to Quarterfinals where they will meet Lithuania. It will be a derby game between two Baltic countries. Estonia will continue in Classification Round. Tatjana Razguliajeva (173-G-96) led Estonia to their first win with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) had 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Jane Svilberg (180-F-95) helped with 12 points and also 11 rebs in this meeting. Latvia got the most from Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) - 17 points. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) followed her with three points less. Quarters: 17-22, 16-10, 14-19, 12-16. Championship continues tomorrow.

Latvia: Kate Kreslina 17, Kitija Laksa 14
Estonia: Tatjana Razguliajeva 18+6 boards, Trine Kasemagi 14+11 boards, Jane Svilberg 12+11 boards

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16 - Women  


Division B: Qualifying Round is over in Arad - by Eurobasket News
Group E
United Kingdom - Ukraine 52-38
United Kingdom is the winner of Qualifying Group E in Arad. They outplayed Ukraine 52-38 for 4-1 record in this pool, what was enough for the first place. UK will meet Romania in the Quarterfinals. Ukraine also advanced to the next stage, but as No.4 of this group with 2-3 record. Their rival will be Germany. Jay-Ann Bravo-Harriott (183-PG-95) led UK to victory with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Shequila Joseph (189-F-95) had 15 points and 6 boards, while Leah McDerment (180-PG-96) added 11 pts. In the loosing squad, Alina Popova (180-F-95) delivered 11 points. Their second scorer was Nataliya Skorbatyuk (183-F-95) with 9 pts. Quarters: 6-7, 14-12, 16-7, 16-12. Championship continues tomorrow.

Slovenia - Portugal 52-60
Portugal outplayed Slovenia 60-52 to take the second place in Qualifying Group E with almost perfect 4-1 record. Of course it is enough for the Quarterfinals, where Portugal will meet Bulgaria. Slovenia dropped to fifth place with 2-3 record and failed to reach the next stage. They will continue in Classification Round (9-12). Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) paced Portugal to victory with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) had 15 points and 7 boards, while Josephine Filipe (175-G-95) added 8 pts, plus 11 rebs. In the loosing squad, Alma Potocnik (169-PG-97) delivered 15 pts. Larisa Ocvirk (184-F-97) stopped to 9 points in this meeting. Quarters: 18-14, 7-15, 15-12, 12-19. All teams will take a rest today.

Latvia - Estonia 59-67
Estonia crushed Latvia 67-59 for their first win in Qualifying Group E. However, it was not enough for them to avoid the last place in this pool with 1-4 record. On the other side, Latvia finished as No.3 with 2-3 score. They advanced to Quarterfinals where they will meet Lithuania. It will be a derby game between two Baltic countries. Estonia will continue in Classification Round. Tatjana Razguliajeva (173-G-96) led Estonia to their first win with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) had 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Jane Svilberg (180-F-95) helped with 12 points and also 11 rebs in this meeting. Latvia got the most from Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) - 17 points. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) followed her with three points less. Quarters: 17-22, 16-10, 14-19, 12-16. Championship continues tomorrow.

Group F
Germany - Lithuania 62-51
It was a game for the first place in Qualifying Group F. Germany was better than Lithuania 62-51 to take this spot. Of course, both teams advanced to the Quarterfinals. Germany (5-0) will meet Ukraine at the next stage, while Lithuania will take on Latvia. Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) was the leading player in Germany yesterday with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Alina Hartmann (182-F-95) had 15 points and 6 boards, while Leonie Edringer (182-F-95) added 11 pts. In defeat, Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) shined with 22 points and 5 boards. Tura Savickaite (188-F-95) delivered 11 points in this defeat and was their last player with double-digits in scoring. Quarters: 16-19, 18-17, 12-9, 16-6. Championship continues tomorrow.

Denmark - Bulgaria 57-67
U16 Bulgaria handed 67-57 loss to U16 Denmark in do-or-die game yesterday. Thanks to this win Bulgaria jumped to third place in Group F and reached the Quarterfinals. Their rival will be Portugal. Denmark also has 2-3 record, but they ended as No.5 and failed to reach the next stage. Denmark will continue in Classification round from 9-12 place. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) paced Bulgaria to victory with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Maria Kamburova (182-F-96) followed her with 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Iva Georgieva (172-F-96) added 9 pts. On the other side, Denmark got 17 points and 12 rebounds from Sofie Preetzmann (180-G-95). Kia Fisker (185-F/C-95) had 9 pts and 6 rebs. Quarters: 20-13, 9-17, 19-20, 9-17. Championship continues tomorrow.

Romania - Switzerland 55-44
Romania advanced to the Quarterfinals in Arad. The host of U16 EuroBasket was better than Switzerland 55-44 jumping to fourth place in Qualifying Group F with 2-3 record. It is enough for the Quarterfinals, where Romania will meet United Kingdom. Switzerland ended as the last ranked team of this pool winless (0-5). They will continue in Classification Round from 9-12 place. Simina Avram (190-C-95) led the hosts with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Iulia Pasca (175-F-95) scored 10 points. In the loosing squad, Tiffanie Zali (182-F-95) had 11 points and 10 rebounds. Miryam Sohm (175-F-95) followed with 10 pts and 6 rebs. Quarters: 11-19, 19-10, 12-6, 13-9. Championship continues tomorrow.

Group G
Ireland - Luxembourg 54-70
Luxembourg registered first victory in Group G in Arad. They outplayed Ireland 70-54 for 1-1 record in this pool. Ireland dropped to 0-2. Mia Pauly (176-F-96) and Jessy Goergen (173-PG-97) led the winners with 14 points and 12 rebounds each. Lynn Reuter (180-F-96) helped with 12 pts and 5 rebs. In defeat, Allison Mcgrath (169-G-96) netted 13 points. Their second scorer was Jennifer Sheehan (170-PG-95) with one point less. Quarters: 12-20, 20-16, 12-13, 10-21. Luxembourg will meet Israel tomorrow. Ireland will take a rest until Saturday.

Division A: Quarterfinals are set in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
Group E
Russia - Sweden 62-56
Russia was better than Sweden 62-56, but despite this win Russia finished as No.3 of Group E, while Sweden is the second ranked team of this pool. Both teams have 4-1 record and both advanced to the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket. There, Sweden will meet Turkey. Russia will take on the host - Italy. Ekaterina Tsukanova (183-F-95) stepped up for Russia in this meeting with 17 points. Ekaterina Ilinova (178-G) had 13 points and 6 assists, while Elizaveta Komarova (170-PG-95) added 8 points and 6 rebs. In Sweden, Regan Magarity (187-F-96) shined with double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds. Veronika Mirkovic (183-C-95) had 14 pts and 6 boards. Quarters: 28-15, 11-17, 17-6, 6-18. Championship continues tomorrow.

Greece - Slovakia 76-69
Greece advanced to Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket in Cagliari. They outplayed Slovakia 76-69 for 2-3 record in Group E, what was enough for the position No.4. Greece will meet powerful Spain in the QFinals. On the other side, Slovakia (0-5) will continue in Classification Games from 9-12 place. Anna Stamolamprou (165-PG-95) was a key player in victory with 31 points. Dimitra Tsavou (182-F-96) also was great adding 19 points and 15 rebounds, while Pinelopi Pavlopoulou (170-PG-96) helped with 14 points and 7 rebs. In the loosing squad, Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) was way better than the others with 32 points and 6 rebounds. Terezia Palenikova (170-PG-95) scored 13 pts in this loss. Quarters: 13-19, 26-19, 21-16, 16-15. All teams will take a rest today.

Czech Republic - Belgium 59-75
Belgium won the Qualifying Group E in Cagliari with almost perfect 4-1 record and will meet France in the Quarterfinals. It was a 75-59 victory against Czech Republic, who dropped to 1-4 record and failed to reach the next stage. They will continue in Classification Round from 9-12 place. Czech Republic ended as No.5 of Group E. Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-G/F-95) led the winners in scoring with 22 points. An-Katrien Nauwelaers (178-F-95) followed her with 15 pts, while Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) added 8. In the loosing squad, Mariana Opocenska (183-F-95) was better than the others with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Sarah Berankova (174-PG-96) collected 8 points and 5 rebs. Quarters: 26-15, 13-21, 10-18, 10-21. Championship continues on Friday.

Group F
Turkey - Spain 35-83
Spain is the winner of Qualifying Group F with perfect 5-0 record. They will meet Greece in the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket in Cagliari. Turkey also advanced to the next stage, but as No.3 of this pool with 3-2 record. Their rival will be Sweden. Maria Jose Arroyo (6 rebs), Leticia Romero (174-F-95) and Alba Pena (177-F-95) scored 12 points each for the winners. Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) followed them with 11 pts. In the loosing squad, Busra Akbas (168-PG-95) delivered 9 points. Basak Altunbey and Ezgi Manlaci stopped to 6 points each. Quarters: 9-24, 7-21, 9-17, 10-21. Championship continues tomorrow.

France - Hungary 59-54
France grabbed crucial 59-54 victory against Hungary taking the fourth place in Qualifying Group F with 2-3 record. It is enough for the Quarterfinals, where France will meet Belgium. On the other side, Hungary ended as the last ranked team of this pool with no win (0-5). They will be transferred to Classification Round from 9-12 place. Berengere Dinga-Mbomi (174-G-95) led France in scoring with 13 points. Aby Gaye (195-C-95) had double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Lysa Millavet (186-F-95) added 10 points and 5 rebs. In the loosing squad, Dorina Kalocsai (171-G-95) delivered 14 points. Vivien Borondy (170-PG-95) (7 rebs) and Dora Nagy (170-PG-95) stopped to 10 pts each. Quarters: 13-17, 20-3, 12-17, 14-17. Championship continues on Friday.

Italy - Holland 52-57
Holland failed to reach the Quarterfinals in Cagliari despite this win. They outplayed Italy 57-52, but finished as No.5 of Group F with 2-3 record. Holland will be transferred to Classification Games from 9-12 place. On the other side, Italy dropped to 3-2 but still won the second place in this pool. Their rivals in the Quarterfinals will be Russia. Klaziena Guijt (173-G-95) led Holland in scoring with 18 points. Merlin Lammerink (186-C-95) had 14 points and 8 rebounds, while Laura Cornelius (174-PG-96) helped with 8 pts. In the loosing squad, Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) shined with 18 points. Their second scorer was Anna Djedjemel (169-PG-95) with 12 pts. Quarters: 14-25, 15-12, 15-13, 8-7. Championship continues tomorrow.

Group G
Poland - Croatia 69-72
Croatia made a step closer to survival in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They grabbed 72-69 win against Poland for 2-1 record in Group G. On the other side, Poland dropped to 1-2 after this loss but there are three more games to be played. Lana Racki (167-PG-96) led Croatia in scoring with 16 points. Inja Butina (170-PG-95) had 14 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists, while Ivana Matic (181-F-95) also helped with 14 pts. In Poland, Monika Buczak (166-PG-95) delivered 20 points. Their second scorer was Magdalena Pisera (176-G-95) with 10 points. Quarters: 23-15, 14-12, 16-13, 16-32. In the next game Croatia will meet Finland. Poland will take on unbeaten Serbia.

Finland - Serbia 56-66
Serbia came just one step away from the survival in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They cruised past Finland 66-56 for perfect 3-0 record in Group G. On the other side, Finland dropped to 0-3 and they are in desperate situation now. Sanja Mandic (177-G-95) exploded for Serbia once again collecting 34 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists (valuation 35!!). Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-C/F-96) had 18 points and 11 rebounds, while all other Serbia players had 14 points in total. In Finland, Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) had 16 points and 5 rebs. Vilma Purhonen (183-F-95) registered double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds in this loss. Quarters: 18-18, 5-12, 12-11, 21-25. In the next game Serbia will meet Poland. Finland will take on Croatia.

W-Standings - Div.A
Standings
Group E
1. Belgium4-1
2. Sweden4-1
3. Russia4-1
4. Greece2-3
5. Czech Rep.1-4
6. Slovakia0-5
Group F
1. Spain5-0
2. Italy3-2
3. Turkey3-2
4. France2-3
5. Holland2-3
6. Hungary0-5
Group G
1. Serbia3-0
2. Croatia2-1
3. Poland1-2
4. Finland0-3


Stats Leaders W - Group A
Points Per Game
 Sanja MANDIC
  (177-G-95)
  Avg: 21.7
 1. Mandic, SRB21.7 
 2. Ben Abdelkad., BEL17.5 
 3. Chiabov, CRO16.2 
 4. Hruscakova, SVK16.0 
 5. Zandalasini, ITA15.0 
 6. Crvendakic, SRB15.0 
 7. Coklar, TUR14.8 
 8. Stamolamprou, GRE14.8 
 9. Arrojo, ESP14.5 
 10. Butina, CRO13.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Hulya COKLAR
  (188-C-95)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Coklar, TUR11.6 
 2. Szajtauer, POL11.4 
 3. Hruscakova, SVK10.2 
 4. Hanson, SWE9.3 
 5. Crvendakic, SRB9.2 
 6. Chiabov, CRO8.8 
 7. Gaye, FRA8.8 
 8. Lammerink, NED8.8 
 9. Magarity, SWE8.7 
 10. Opocenska, CZE8.5 
Assists Per Game
 Inja BUTINA
  (170-PG-95)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Butina, CRO4.5 
 2. Mandic, SRB4.0 
 3. Allemand, BEL3.5 
 4. Kyratzi, GRE3.3 
 5. Matuskova, SVK3.3 
 6. Akbas, TUR3.3 
 7. Ben Abdelkad., BEL3.3 
 8. Romero, ESP2.8 
 9. Arrojo, ESP2.7 
 10. Penna, ITA2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Leticia ROMERO
  (174-F-95)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Romero, ESP3.8 
 2. Jamsa, FIN3.2 
 3. Lizarazu, ESP3.0 
 4. Hanson, SWE3.0 
 5. Mandic, SRB2.8 
 6. Butina, CRO2.5 
 7. Pisera, POL2.4 
 8. Akbas, TUR2.3 
 9. Stankiewicz, POL2.2 
 10. Nagy, HUN2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Aleksandra CRVENDAKIC
  (187-C/F-96)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Crvendakic, SRB2.3 
 2. Zarevuckaa, SVK2.2 
 3. Chiabov, CRO2.0 
 4. Gaye, FRA1.7 
 5. Pobozy, POL1.5 
 6. Zandalasini, ITA1.2 
 7. Bernard, BEL1.2 
 8. Magarity, SWE1.2 
 9. Linskens, BEL1.2 
 10. Shchetina, RUS1.0 


Standings - Div.B - by Greg
Standings Div.B
Group E
1. U.Kingdom4-1
2. Portugal4-1
3. Latvia2-3
4. Ukraine2-3
5. Slovenia2-3
6. Estonia1-4
Group F
1. Germany5-0
2. Lithuania4-1
3. Bulgaria2-3
4. Romania2-3
5. Denmark2-3
6. Switzerland0-5
Group G
1. Israel2-0
2. Luxembourg1-1
3. Ireland0-2


Div B. - by Greg
Points Per Game
 Borislava HRISTOVA
  (180-F-96)
  Avg: 25
 1. Hristova, BUL25.0 
 2. Stach, GER19.0 
 3. Rouault, GER18.3 
 4. Belickaite, LTU17.0 
 5. Preetzmann, DEN17.0 
 6. Soeiro, POR16.7 
 7. Laksa, LAT16.7 
 8. Kreslina, LAT15.7 
 9. Kraujunaite, LTU15.7 
 10. Batrakova, UKR14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tetyana ANTONYUK
  (184-C-95)
  Avg: 16.7
 1. Antonyuk, UKR16.7 
 2. Rouault, GER16.3 
 3. Lisec, SLO12.0 
 4. Green, ENG10.7 
 5. Putramentait., LTU10.7 
 6. Monakana, ENG10.0 
 7. Pauly, LUX10.0 
 8. Batrakova, UKR10.0 
 9. Drosvit, ISR9.5 
 10. Kasemagi, EST9.3 
Assists Per Game
 Emma lina STACH
  (175-PG-96)
  Avg: 5
 1. Stach, GER5.0 
 2. Zhelyazkova, BUL4.0 
 3. Sirsinaityte, LTU4.0 
 4. Aha, GER4.0 
 5. Kreslina, LAT3.0 
 6. Bravo-H., ENG3.0 
 7. Sapir, ISR3.0 
 8. Bidinger, LUX3.0 
 9. Hristova, BUL3.0 
 10. Valchinova, BUL2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Cristina GAVRILA
  (172-G-95)
  Avg: 6
 1. Gavrila, ROM6.0 
 2. Belickaite, LTU5.0 
 3. Crowley, IRL4.5 
 4. Mollerup, DEN4.3 
 5. Sirsinaityte, LTU4.0 
 6. Abboud, ISR4.0 
 7. Preetzmann, DEN3.7 
 8. Banet, ISR3.5 
 9. Sapir, ISR3.5 
 10. Hristova, BUL3.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Bianca BLANARU
  (193-C-95)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Blanaru, ROM6.7 
 2. Batrakova, UKR3.3 
 3. Avram, ROM2.3 
 4. Eneva, BUL2.0 
 5. Skorbatyuk, UKR2.0 
 6. Antonyuk, UKR1.3 
 7. Mizgeryte, LTU1.3 
 8. Zali, SUI1.3 
 9. Zhelyazkova, BUL1.0 
 10. Balaisyte, LTU1.0 


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  FINLAND - Women  


U16 Serbia step away from survival in Division A - by Eurobasket News
U16 FINLAND - U16 SERBIA 56-66

Serbia came just one step away from the survival in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They cruised past Finland 66-56 for perfect 3-0 record in Group G. On the other side, Finland dropped to 0-3 and they are in desperate situation now. Sanja Mandic (177-G-95) exploded for Serbia once again collecting 34 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists (valuation 35!!). Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-C/F-96) had 18 points and 11 rebounds, while all other Serbia players had 14 points in total. In Finland, Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) had 16 points and 5 rebs. Vilma Purhonen (183-F-95) registered double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds in this loss. Quarters: 18-18, 5-12, 12-11, 21-25. In the next game Serbia will meet Poland. Finland will take on Croatia.

Finland: Anni Jamsa 16+5 boards, Vilma Purhonen 14+11 boards
Serbia: Sanja Mandic 34+10 boards+5 as, Aleksandra Crvendakic 18+11 boards

2011 Universiade. USA destroyed Finland to step closer to the tile defense - by Eurobasket News
USA-Finland 96:30

USA destroyed Finland to step closer to the tile defense at the World University Games in China 2011. The defending champions overwhelmed Finland 96:30 to advance to the semis.
USA erupted with 21-0 run at the very start and shocked the Scandinavian side. They reached 32:10 at the end of the first period and did not even think of slowing down. After 21-7 in the second period the board showed 53:17 at the halftime. Led by Elena Delle Donne (6'5''-G/F-89) and Devereaux Peters (6'2''-F-89), USA reached 57:20 after 25 minutes in the court and enjoyed 73:24 at the end of the third quarter. The task for the last period was to score three-digit number, however USA was satisfied with 98. Finland meanwhile could not score in the last 5 minutes.
Elena Delle Donne and Devereaux Peters top-scored for the winners with 17 points each, while Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2''-F-90) added 12. Jacqueline Gemelos (6'0''-G-88) and Chinenye Ogwumike (6'3''-F-92) followed them with 10 points apiece.

USA: Elena Delle Donne 17, Devereaux Peters 17, Nnemkadi Ogwumike 12, Jacqueline Gemelos 10, Chinenye Ogwumike 10
Finland: Hanna Vapamaa (5'11''-F-90) 6, Minna Sten (6'3''-F-87) 4, Linda-Lotta Lehtoranta (5'9''-G-91) 4


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  FRANCE - Women  


France reaches Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News
U16 FRANCE - U16 HUNGARY 59-54

France grabbed crucial 59-54 victory against Hungary taking the fourth place in Qualifying Group F with 2-3 record. It is enough for the Quarterfinals, where France will meet Belgium. On the other side, Hungary ended as the last ranked team of this pool with no win (0-5). They will be transferred to Classification Round from 9-12 place. Berengere Dinga-Mbomi (174-G-95) led France in scoring with 13 points. Aby Gaye (195-C-95) had double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Lysa Millavet (186-F-95) added 10 points and 5 rebs. In the loosing squad, Dorina Kalocsai (171-G-95) delivered 14 points. Vivien Borondy (170-PG-95) (7 rebs) and Dora Nagy (170-PG-95) stopped to 10 pts each. Quarters: 13-17, 20-3, 12-17, 14-17. Championship continues on Friday.

France: Berengere Dinga-Mbomi 13, Aby Gaye 12+12 boards, Lysa Millavet 10+5 boards
Hungary: Dorina Kalocsai 14, Vivien Borondy 10+7 boards, Dora Nagy 10

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  GERMANY - Women  


U16 Germany beats U16 Lithuania 62-51 to win Group F with perfect 5-0 - by Eurobasket News
U16 GERMANY - U16 LITHUANIA 62-51

It was a game for the first place in Qualifying Group F. Germany was better than Lithuania 62-51 to take this spot. Of course, both teams advanced to the Quarterfinals. Germany (5-0) will meet Ukraine at the next stage, while Lithuania will take on Latvia. Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) was the leading player in Germany yesterday with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Alina Hartmann (182-F-95) had 15 points and 6 boards, while Leonie Edringer (182-F-95) added 11 pts. In defeat, Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) shined with 22 points and 5 boards. Tura Savickaite (188-F-95) delivered 11 points in this defeat and was their last player with double-digits in scoring. Quarters: 16-19, 18-17, 12-9, 16-6. Championship continues tomorrow.

Germany: Emma lina Stach 17+8 boards, Alina Hartmann 15+6 boards, Leonie Edringer 11
Lithuania: Dalia Belickaite 22+5 boards, Tura Savickaite 11

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  GREECE - Women  


U16 Greece heads to Quarterfinals in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 GREECE - U16 SLOVAKIA 76-69

Greece advanced to Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket in Cagliari. They outplayed Slovakia 76-69 for 2-3 record in Group E, what was enough for the position No.4. Greece will meet powerful Spain in the QFinals. On the other side, Slovakia (0-5) will continue in Classification Games from 9-12 place. Anna Stamolamprou (165-PG-95) was a key player in victory with 31 points. Dimitra Tsavou (182-F-96) also was great adding 19 points and 15 rebounds, while Pinelopi Pavlopoulou (170-PG-96) helped with 14 points and 7 rebs. In the loosing squad, Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) was way better than the others with 32 points and 6 rebounds. Terezia Palenikova (170-PG-95) scored 13 pts in this loss. Quarters: 13-19, 26-19, 21-16, 16-15. All teams will take a rest today.

Greece: Anna Stamolamprou 31, Dimitra Tsavou 19+15 boards, Pinelopi Pavlopoulou 14+7 boards
Slovakia: Zofia Hruscakova 32+6 boards, Terezia Palenikova 13

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  HOLLAND - Women  


U16 Holland hands 57-52 loss to U16 Italy, fails to advance - by Eurobasket News
U16 ITALY - U16 HOLLAND 52-57

Holland failed to reach the Quarterfinals in Cagliari despite this win. They outplayed Italy 57-52, but finished as No.5 of Group F with 2-3 record. Holland will be transferred to Classification Games from 9-12 place. On the other side, Italy dropped to 3-2 but still won the second place in this pool. Their rivals in the Quarterfinals will be Russia. Klaziena Guijt (173-G-95) led Holland in scoring with 18 points. Merlin Lammerink (186-C-95) had 14 points and 8 rebounds, while Laura Cornelius (174-PG-96) helped with 8 pts. In the loosing squad, Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) shined with 18 points. Their second scorer was Anna Djedjemel (169-PG-95) with 12 pts. Quarters: 14-25, 15-12, 15-13, 8-7. Championship continues tomorrow.

Italy: Cecilia Zandalasini 18, Anna Djedjemel 12
Holland: Klaziena Guijt 18, Merlin Lammerink 14+8 boards, Laura Cornelius 8

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  HUNGARY - Women  


France reaches Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News
U16 FRANCE - U16 HUNGARY 59-54

France grabbed crucial 59-54 victory against Hungary taking the fourth place in Qualifying Group F with 2-3 record. It is enough for the Quarterfinals, where France will meet Belgium. On the other side, Hungary ended as the last ranked team of this pool with no win (0-5). They will be transferred to Classification Round from 9-12 place. Berengere Dinga-Mbomi (174-G-95) led France in scoring with 13 points. Aby Gaye (195-C-95) had double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Lysa Millavet (186-F-95) added 10 points and 5 rebs. In the loosing squad, Dorina Kalocsai (171-G-95) delivered 14 points. Vivien Borondy (170-PG-95) (7 rebs) and Dora Nagy (170-PG-95) stopped to 10 pts each. Quarters: 13-17, 20-3, 12-17, 14-17. Championship continues on Friday.

France: Berengere Dinga-Mbomi 13, Aby Gaye 12+12 boards, Lysa Millavet 10+5 boards
Hungary: Dorina Kalocsai 14, Vivien Borondy 10+7 boards, Dora Nagy 10

Standings - Women
A Standings
 1. Atomeromu 0-0 
 2. Bajai NKK 0-0 
 3. BEAC 0-0 
 4. BSE 0-0 
 5. Cegledi EKK 0-0 
 6. DKSK 0-0 
 7. Nanette FTC 0-0 
 8. Pecs 2010 0-0 
 9. SEAT-SZESE 0-0 
 10. UNIQA Eurol. 0-0 
 11. Vasas-Csata 0-0 
 12. ZTE 0-0 


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  INDONESIA - Women  


Indonesian National Team 2011 - by Karol
Indonesian National Team 2011
#s#
Wulan Ningrum
Ningrum
Fanny Kalumata
Kalumata
Hanum Fasya
Fasya
Maharani Adhipuspitasari
Adhipuspitasari
Yuni Anggraeni
Anggraeni
#e#5
4 Wulan Ningrum 174-G/F-85
5 Fanny Kalumata 175-F-89
6 Hanum Fasya 163-PG-90
7 Maharani Adhipuspitasari 172-G-86
8 Yuni Anggraeni 174-G-84
9 Jacklien Ibo 175-F-90
10 Catryn Clorissa 175-F-91
11 Atty Achmad 174-G-90
12 Marjorice Tsarine 167-PG-91
13 Yulinda Wati 174-F-87
14 Yunita Sugianto 167-PG-87
15 Gabriel Sophia 180-C-91

William McCammon Head Coach


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  IRELAND - Women  


U16 Luxembourg wins their first game in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U16 IRELAND - U16 LUXEMBOURG 54-70

Luxembourg registered first victory in Group G in Arad. They outplayed Ireland 70-54 for 1-1 record in this pool. Ireland dropped to 0-2. Mia Pauly (176-F-96) and Jessy Goergen (173-PG-97) led the winners with 14 points and 12 rebounds each. Lynn Reuter (180-F-96) helped with 12 pts and 5 rebs. In defeat, Allison Mcgrath (169-G-96) netted 13 points. Their second scorer was Jennifer Sheehan (170-PG-95) with one point less. Quarters: 12-20, 20-16, 12-13, 10-21. Luxembourg will meet Israel tomorrow. Ireland will take a rest until Saturday.

Ireland: Allison Mcgrath 13, Jennifer Sheehan 12
Luxembourg: Mia Pauly 14+12 boards, Jessy Goergen 14+12 boards, Lynn Reuter 12+5 boards

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  ITALY - Women  


U16 Holland hands 57-52 loss to U16 Italy, fails to advance - by Eurobasket News
U16 ITALY - U16 HOLLAND 52-57

Holland failed to reach the Quarterfinals in Cagliari despite this win. They outplayed Italy 57-52, but finished as No.5 of Group F with 2-3 record. Holland will be transferred to Classification Games from 9-12 place. On the other side, Italy dropped to 3-2 but still won the second place in this pool. Their rivals in the Quarterfinals will be Russia. Klaziena Guijt (173-G-95) led Holland in scoring with 18 points. Merlin Lammerink (186-C-95) had 14 points and 8 rebounds, while Laura Cornelius (174-PG-96) helped with 8 pts. In the loosing squad, Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) shined with 18 points. Their second scorer was Anna Djedjemel (169-PG-95) with 12 pts. Quarters: 14-25, 15-12, 15-13, 8-7. Championship continues tomorrow.

Italy: Cecilia Zandalasini 18, Anna Djedjemel 12
Holland: Klaziena Guijt 18, Merlin Lammerink 14+8 boards, Laura Cornelius 8

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  JAPAN - Women  


2011 Universiade. Japan outscored Poland in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Poland-Japan 66:73

Japan outscored Poland in Shenzhen at the Classification Round for 9-16 places in the World University Games. The Asian team needed a strong second quarter to win the game 73:66.
Poland started the game with 13:6 and reached 22:15 at the end of the first period. They led 30:25 midway through the second frame, but lost the first half. Japan had a strong half at the end of the frame to take 37:33 halftime advantage. Moreover they improved to 50:37 early in the third and enjoyed 56:46 after three quarters. Poland won however the last period 20-17 to reduce to 7 points at the end.
Mio Shinozaki (166-PG-91) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Azusa Sato (167-G-89) as well as Nao Sonoda (178-F-89) posted 14 each. Mika Kurihara (178-F-89) followed them with 12 points for the win. Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk (188-F/C-89) collected 23 points and 16 rebounds in defeat and Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) netted 19.

Poland: Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk 23+16 rebs, Agnieszka Skobel 19
Japan: Mio Shinozaki 19, Azusa Sato 14, Nao Sonoda 14, Mika Kurihara 12


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  KAZAKHSTAN - Women  


Kazakhstan National Team 2011 - by Karol
Kazakhstan National Team 2011
#s#
Anastassiya Alishauskaite
Alishauskaite
Yelena Dots
Dots
Tamara Seregina
Seregina
Rufina Gavriluk
Gavriluk
Zalina Kurazova
Kurazova
#e#5
4 Anastassiya Alishauskaite 170-G-88 Astana Tigers Kazakhstan
5 Yulia Korotkaya 175-G-77 Irtysh Kazakhstan
6 Annan Kucheryavykh 177-G-74 Irtysh Kazakhstan
7 Yelena Dots 177-G-89 Kustanay Kazakhstan
8 Tamara Seregina 182-F-90 BK Almaty Kazakhstan
9 Rufina Gavriluk 176-F-86 Astana Tigers Kazakhstan
10 Zalina Kurazova 184-F-85 Irtysh Kazakhstan
12 Anna Vinokurova 191-C-92 Irtysh Kazakhstan
13 Nadezhda Kondrakova 192-C-89 Irtysh Kazakhstan
14 Oxana Ivanova 190-C-90 Astana Tigers Kazakhstan
15 Mariya Protsenko 188-F-89 Astana Tigers Kazakhstan

Tatyana Kondius Head Coach


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  LATVIA - Women  


U16 Latvia heads to Quarterfinals, U16 Estonia to Classification Round in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 LATVIA - U16 ESTONIA 59-67

Estonia crushed Latvia 67-59 for their first win in Qualifying Group E. However, it was not enough for them to avoid the last place in this pool with 1-4 record. On the other side, Latvia finished as No.3 with 2-3 score. They advanced to Quarterfinals where they will meet Lithuania. It will be a derby game between two Baltic countries. Estonia will continue in Classification Round. Tatjana Razguliajeva (173-G-96) led Estonia to their first win with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) had 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Jane Svilberg (180-F-95) helped with 12 points and also 11 rebs in this meeting. Latvia got the most from Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) - 17 points. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) followed her with three points less. Quarters: 17-22, 16-10, 14-19, 12-16. Championship continues tomorrow.

Latvia: Kate Kreslina 17, Kitija Laksa 14
Estonia: Tatjana Razguliajeva 18+6 boards, Trine Kasemagi 14+11 boards, Jane Svilberg 12+11 boards

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  LEBANON - Women  


Lebanese National Team 2011 - by Maarouf Mawloud
Lebanese National Team 2011
#s#

Denson
Rebecca Akl
Akl
Chada Nasr
Nasr

Alamedine
Aida Bakhos
Bakhos
#e#5
4 Sabine Fakhoury 169-PG-85 Al Riyadi Lebanon
5 Rebecca Akl 169-F-92 Al Riyadi Lebanon
6 Marie Imad 180-F-82 Homentmen A. Lebanon
7 Narine Gyokchyan 186-F/C-93
8 Aida Bakhos 175-G-86 Al Riyadi Lebanon
9 Layla Fares 89
11 Nisrin Dandan 172-G-77 Antranik Lebanon
12 Nathalie Sevajian 170-G-88 Homentmen A. Lebanon
13 Chada Nasr 174-G-83 Antranik Lebanon
14 Tamara Khalil 185-F-86 Antranik Lebanon
15 Brittany Denson 192-C-87 Maccabi Ashdod Israel
10
Nayla Alameddine 175-F-82 Antranik Beirut Lebanon
Elie Nasr Coach Antranik Beirut Lebanon
 Head Coach Antranik Lebanon


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  LITHUANIA - Women  


2011 Universiade. The Baltic side edged United Kingdom in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
United Kingdom-Lithuania 69:79

The Baltic side edged United Kingdom in Shenzhen at the Classification Round for 9-16 places in the World University Games. Lithuania needed 79:69 victory to play for 9-12 places.
Lina Aglinskaite (182-F-87) opened the game from the perimeter and Mazionyte brought 12:8. The Baltic team finished the frame with 7-0 run as Sniokaite brought 23:12. Both teams scored 14 points apiece in the second frame that showed 37:26 at the halftime. Lithuania erupted with 22-14 in the third period and had 59:40 entering the last stanza. They led 14 points with 5 minutes to go, while the opponents managed to cut it to 10.
United Kingdom scored 36 points in the Paint and Lithuania 24.
Lina Aglinskaite stepped up with 21 points, while Gintare Mazionyte (186-F/C-91) followed her with 20. Chantelle Handy (191-F/C-87, college: Marshall) ended up with 19 points in the losing case and Rose Anderson (175-G-88) posted 10.

United Kingdom: Chantelle Handy 19, Rose Anderson 10
Lithuania: Lina Aglinskaite 21, Gintare Mazionyte 20


U16 Germany beats U16 Lithuania 62-51 to win Group F with perfect 5-0 - by Eurobasket News
U16 GERMANY - U16 LITHUANIA 62-51

It was a game for the first place in Qualifying Group F. Germany was better than Lithuania 62-51 to take this spot. Of course, both teams advanced to the Quarterfinals. Germany (5-0) will meet Ukraine at the next stage, while Lithuania will take on Latvia. Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) was the leading player in Germany yesterday with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Alina Hartmann (182-F-95) had 15 points and 6 boards, while Leonie Edringer (182-F-95) added 11 pts. In defeat, Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) shined with 22 points and 5 boards. Tura Savickaite (188-F-95) delivered 11 points in this defeat and was their last player with double-digits in scoring. Quarters: 16-19, 18-17, 12-9, 16-6. Championship continues tomorrow.

Germany: Emma lina Stach 17+8 boards, Alina Hartmann 15+6 boards, Leonie Edringer 11
Lithuania: Dalia Belickaite 22+5 boards, Tura Savickaite 11

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  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


U16 Luxembourg wins their first game in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U16 IRELAND - U16 LUXEMBOURG 54-70

Luxembourg registered first victory in Group G in Arad. They outplayed Ireland 70-54 for 1-1 record in this pool. Ireland dropped to 0-2. Mia Pauly (176-F-96) and Jessy Goergen (173-PG-97) led the winners with 14 points and 12 rebounds each. Lynn Reuter (180-F-96) helped with 12 pts and 5 rebs. In defeat, Allison Mcgrath (169-G-96) netted 13 points. Their second scorer was Jennifer Sheehan (170-PG-95) with one point less. Quarters: 12-20, 20-16, 12-13, 10-21. Luxembourg will meet Israel tomorrow. Ireland will take a rest until Saturday.

Ireland: Allison Mcgrath 13, Jennifer Sheehan 12
Luxembourg: Mia Pauly 14+12 boards, Jessy Goergen 14+12 boards, Lynn Reuter 12+5 boards

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  MALAYSIA - Women  


Malaysian National Team 2011 - by Karol
Malaysian National Team 2011
#s#
Wei Yin Saw
Saw
Woon Yuen Teo
Teo
Shin Min Yong
Yong
Siew Teng Ang
Ang
Nur Izzati Yaakob
Yaakob
#e#5
4 Wei Yin Saw 166-PG-92
5 Woon Yuen Teo 165-G-85
6 Shin Min Yong 174-F-87
7 Siew Teng Ang 174-87
8 Nur Izzati Yaakob 163-89
9 Hui Pin Pang 176-90
10 Hui Jing Chen 177-G/F-87
11 Suik May Kew 172-F-82
12 Kalaimathi Rajintiran 185-C-90
13 Beng Fong Goh 165-G-82
14 Shook Ying Hee 181-C-85
15 Ching Yee Yap 192-C-91

See Wah Tan Head Coach


*****************************************************
  NCAA1 - Women  


2011 Universiade. USA destroyed Finland to step closer to the tile defense - by Eurobasket News
USA-Finland 96:30

USA destroyed Finland to step closer to the tile defense at the World University Games in China 2011. The defending champions overwhelmed Finland 96:30 to advance to the semis.
USA erupted with 21-0 run at the very start and shocked the Scandinavian side. They reached 32:10 at the end of the first period and did not even think of slowing down. After 21-7 in the second period the board showed 53:17 at the halftime. Led by Elena Delle Donne (6'5''-G/F-89) and Devereaux Peters (6'2''-F-89), USA reached 57:20 after 25 minutes in the court and enjoyed 73:24 at the end of the third quarter. The task for the last period was to score three-digit number, however USA was satisfied with 98. Finland meanwhile could not score in the last 5 minutes.
Elena Delle Donne and Devereaux Peters top-scored for the winners with 17 points each, while Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2''-F-90) added 12. Jacqueline Gemelos (6'0''-G-88) and Chinenye Ogwumike (6'3''-F-92) followed them with 10 points apiece.

USA: Elena Delle Donne 17, Devereaux Peters 17, Nnemkadi Ogwumike 12, Jacqueline Gemelos 10, Chinenye Ogwumike 10
Finland: Hanna Vapamaa (5'11''-F-90) 6, Minna Sten (6'3''-F-87) 4, Linda-Lotta Lehtoranta (5'9''-G-91) 4


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  POLAND - Women  


ROW Rybnik grabs Magdalena Radwan - by Lukasz Lukaszewski
KK ROW Rybnik signed agreement with other polish player - Magdalena Radwan (180-G-82). She returns to KK ROW Rybnik after two years in Energa Torun. In her last season in Torun, she averaged 3,8 points per game in league. She also added 4,0 points per game in FIBA EuroCup . She helped the team to reach the Polish Cup Final and 1/8 EuroCup final.
She played in KK ROW Rybnik in 2008/2009 season. She averaged 7,3 points per game in 20 games. In the past she have been playing for TS Wisla Can-Pack Krakow for 4 seasons.


U16 Croatia grabs 72-69 win against U16 Poland in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 POLAND - U16 CROATIA 69-72

Croatia made a step closer to survival in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They grabbed 72-69 win against Poland for 2-1 record in Group G. On the other side, Poland dropped to 1-2 after this loss but there are three more games to be played. Lana Racki (167-PG-96) led Croatia in scoring with 16 points. Inja Butina (170-PG-95) had 14 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists, while Ivana Matic (181-F-95) also helped with 14 pts. In Poland, Monika Buczak (166-PG-95) delivered 20 points. Their second scorer was Magdalena Pisera (176-G-95) with 10 points. Quarters: 23-15, 14-12, 16-13, 16-32. In the next game Croatia will meet Finland. Poland will take on unbeaten Serbia.

Poland: Monika Buczak 20, Magdalena Pisera 10
Croatia: Lana Racki 16, Inja Butina 14+6 boards+10 as, Ivana Matic 14

2011 Universiade. Japan outscored Poland in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Poland-Japan 66:73

Japan outscored Poland in Shenzhen at the Classification Round for 9-16 places in the World University Games. The Asian team needed a strong second quarter to win the game 73:66.
Poland started the game with 13:6 and reached 22:15 at the end of the first period. They led 30:25 midway through the second frame, but lost the first half. Japan had a strong half at the end of the frame to take 37:33 halftime advantage. Moreover they improved to 50:37 early in the third and enjoyed 56:46 after three quarters. Poland won however the last period 20-17 to reduce to 7 points at the end.
Mio Shinozaki (166-PG-91) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Azusa Sato (167-G-89) as well as Nao Sonoda (178-F-89) posted 14 each. Mika Kurihara (178-F-89) followed them with 12 points for the win. Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk (188-F/C-89) collected 23 points and 16 rebounds in defeat and Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) netted 19.

Poland: Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk 23+16 rebs, Agnieszka Skobel 19
Japan: Mio Shinozaki 19, Azusa Sato 14, Nao Sonoda 14, Mika Kurihara 12


*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL - Women  


U16 Portugal goes to QFinals in Arad, U16 Slovenia fails to advance - by Eurobasket News
U16 SLOVENIA - U16 PORTUGAL 52-60

Portugal outplayed Slovenia 60-52 to take the second place in Qualifying Group E with almost perfect 4-1 record. Of course it is enough for the Quarterfinals, where Portugal will meet Bulgaria. Slovenia dropped to fifth place with 2-3 record and failed to reach the next stage. They will continue in Classification Round (9-12). Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) paced Portugal to victory with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) had 15 points and 7 boards, while Josephine Filipe (175-G-95) added 8 pts, plus 11 rebs. In the loosing squad, Alma Potocnik (169-PG-97) delivered 15 pts. Larisa Ocvirk (184-F-97) stopped to 9 points in this meeting. Quarters: 18-14, 7-15, 15-12, 12-19. All teams will take a rest today.

Slovenia: Alma Potocnik 15, Larisa Ocvirk 9
Portugal: Laura Ferreira 18+7 boards, Joana Soeiro 15+7 boards, Josephine Filipe 8+11 boards

*****************************************************
  ROMANIA - Women  


U16 Romania heads to Quarterfinals in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 ROMANIA - U16 SWITZERLAND 55-44

Romania advanced to the Quarterfinals in Arad. The host of U16 EuroBasket was better than Switzerland 55-44 jumping to fourth place in Qualifying Group F with 2-3 record. It is enough for the Quarterfinals, where Romania will meet United Kingdom. Switzerland ended as the last ranked team of this pool winless (0-5). They will continue in Classification Round from 9-12 place. Simina Avram (190-C-95) led the hosts with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Iulia Pasca (175-F-95) scored 10 points. In the loosing squad, Tiffanie Zali (182-F-95) had 11 points and 10 rebounds. Miryam Sohm (175-F-95) followed with 10 pts and 6 rebs. Quarters: 11-19, 19-10, 12-6, 13-9. Championship continues tomorrow.

Romania: Simina Avram 15+9 boards, Iulia Pasca 10
Switzerland: Tiffanie Zali 11+10 boards, Miryam Sohm 10+6 boards

*****************************************************
  RUSSIA - Women  


2011 Universiade. Sweden makes the Semifinal appearance - by Eurobasket News
Russia-Sweden 60:68

Sweden makes the Semifinal appearance at the World University Games in China 2011. The Scandinavian team edged Russia 68:60 to advanced to Final Four.
Sweden started better and had 8:6 in the opening tip. They led to 14:10 at the end of the frame and enjoyed 19:15 in the middle of the second period. After another push Sweden grabbed 29:20 at the halftime. Russia bounced back with 23-18 in the third period and reduced to 47:43 after thirty minutes. Moreover Russia closed the gap at 56:55, but could not win the game.
Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) stepped up with 22 points for the winners and Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) netted 14. Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) followed them with 11 points each in a win. Tatiana Petrushina (185-F-90) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort. Natalia Myasoedova (193-C-87) notched 12, while Natalia Vieru (198-C-89) added 11.

Russia: Tatiana Petrushina 13, Natalia Myasoedova 12, Natalia Vieru 11
Sweden: Frida Eldebrink 22, Louice Halvarsson 14, Elin Eldebrink 11, Farhiya Abdi 11


U16 Russia beats U16 Sweden 62-56, both teams advance - by Eurobasket News
U16 RUSSIA - U16 SWEDEN 62-56

Russia was better than Sweden 62-56, but despite this win Russia finished as No.3 of Group E, while Sweden is the second ranked team of this pool. Both teams have 4-1 record and both advanced to the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket. There, Sweden will meet Turkey. Russia will take on the host - Italy. Ekaterina Tsukanova (183-F-95) stepped up for Russia in this meeting with 17 points. Ekaterina Ilinova (178-G) had 13 points and 6 assists, while Elizaveta Komarova (170-PG-95) added 8 points and 6 rebs. In Sweden, Regan Magarity (187-F-96) shined with double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds. Veronika Mirkovic (183-C-95) had 14 pts and 6 boards. Quarters: 28-15, 11-17, 17-6, 6-18. Championship continues tomorrow.

Russia: Ekaterina Tsukanova 17, Ekaterina Ilinova 13+6 as, Elizaveta Komarova 8+6 boards
Sweden: Regan Magarity 17+11 boards, Veronika Mirkovic 14+6 boards

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  SERBIA - Women  


U16 Serbia step away from survival in Division A - by Eurobasket News
U16 FINLAND - U16 SERBIA 56-66

Serbia came just one step away from the survival in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They cruised past Finland 66-56 for perfect 3-0 record in Group G. On the other side, Finland dropped to 0-3 and they are in desperate situation now. Sanja Mandic (177-G-95) exploded for Serbia once again collecting 34 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists (valuation 35!!). Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-C/F-96) had 18 points and 11 rebounds, while all other Serbia players had 14 points in total. In Finland, Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) had 16 points and 5 rebs. Vilma Purhonen (183-F-95) registered double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds in this loss. Quarters: 18-18, 5-12, 12-11, 21-25. In the next game Serbia will meet Poland. Finland will take on Croatia.

Finland: Anni Jamsa 16+5 boards, Vilma Purhonen 14+11 boards
Serbia: Sanja Mandic 34+10 boards+5 as, Aleksandra Crvendakic 18+11 boards

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  SINGAPORE - Women  


Singapore National Team 2011 - by Karol
Singapore National Team 2011
#s#
Ming Shi Lee
Lee
Juliana Ang
Ang
Jiamin Lim
Lim
Cynthia Sunarko
Sunarko
Sarah Tan
Tan
#e#5
4 Ming Shi Lee 160-PG-88
5 Ang Juliana 168-F-87
6 Lim Jiamin 167-PG-91
7 Sunarko Cynthia 163-PG-89
8 Tan Sarah 173-F-91
9 Lim Shi Hui 173-F-89
10 Lim Alanna 173-F-94
11 Koh Weibin 165-F-86
12 Tan Seow Hwee 178-G/F-91
13 Tan Janice 168-G-93
14 Sim Celine 175-F-89
15 Ting Tang Choy 173-F-93

Chiew Poh Leng Head Coach


*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA - Women  


U16 Greece heads to Quarterfinals in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 GREECE - U16 SLOVAKIA 76-69

Greece advanced to Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket in Cagliari. They outplayed Slovakia 76-69 for 2-3 record in Group E, what was enough for the position No.4. Greece will meet powerful Spain in the QFinals. On the other side, Slovakia (0-5) will continue in Classification Games from 9-12 place. Anna Stamolamprou (165-PG-95) was a key player in victory with 31 points. Dimitra Tsavou (182-F-96) also was great adding 19 points and 15 rebounds, while Pinelopi Pavlopoulou (170-PG-96) helped with 14 points and 7 rebs. In the loosing squad, Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) was way better than the others with 32 points and 6 rebounds. Terezia Palenikova (170-PG-95) scored 13 pts in this loss. Quarters: 13-19, 26-19, 21-16, 16-15. All teams will take a rest today.

Greece: Anna Stamolamprou 31, Dimitra Tsavou 19+15 boards, Pinelopi Pavlopoulou 14+7 boards
Slovakia: Zofia Hruscakova 32+6 boards, Terezia Palenikova 13

2011 Universiade. China overcame Slovak Republic at the Classification Round for 9-16 places - by Eurobasket News
China-Slovak Republic 75:53

China overcame Slovak Republic at the Classification Round for 9-16 places in the World University Games. The home side needed 75:53 and will play for 9-12 places.
Slovak Republic grabbed 6-2 in the opening tip, but lost the first frame 16:14. The hosts of the tournament led 25:20 after 15 minutes of the game and reached 37:31 at the halftime. They continued to dominate the court and increased to 48:37 midway through the third frame. After 18-16 in it China had 55:47 after thirty minutes in the court. Another defensive 20-6 in the last stanza brought the victory for the Asian team.
Wang Yajie (183-F-89) erupted with 27 points, while Shao Ting (183-F-89) notched 15. Zhai Huan (178-F-89) nailed 11, while Wang Miqi (185-F-89) posted 10. Katarina Tetemondova (187-F-88) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort and Eva Kmetova (188-C-87) added 10.

China: Wang Yajie 27, Shao Ting 15, Zhai Huan 11, Wang Miqi 10
Slovak Republic: Katarina Tetemondova 13, Eva Kmetova 10

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  SLOVENIA - Women  


U16 Portugal goes to QFinals in Arad, U16 Slovenia fails to advance - by Eurobasket News
U16 SLOVENIA - U16 PORTUGAL 52-60

Portugal outplayed Slovenia 60-52 to take the second place in Qualifying Group E with almost perfect 4-1 record. Of course it is enough for the Quarterfinals, where Portugal will meet Bulgaria. Slovenia dropped to fifth place with 2-3 record and failed to reach the next stage. They will continue in Classification Round (9-12). Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) paced Portugal to victory with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) had 15 points and 7 boards, while Josephine Filipe (175-G-95) added 8 pts, plus 11 rebs. In the loosing squad, Alma Potocnik (169-PG-97) delivered 15 pts. Larisa Ocvirk (184-F-97) stopped to 9 points in this meeting. Quarters: 18-14, 7-15, 15-12, 12-19. All teams will take a rest today.

Slovenia: Alma Potocnik 15, Larisa Ocvirk 9
Portugal: Laura Ferreira 18+7 boards, Joana Soeiro 15+7 boards, Josephine Filipe 8+11 boards

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


LFB2 Standings - by Karol
LF2 Standings
Group A
 1. ADBA 0-0 
 2. Aguere 0-0 
 3. Aros Leon 0-0 
 4. Arxil Pontev. 0-0 
 5. Bembibre 0-0 
 6. Caceres 0-0 
 7. Cajacanarias 0-0 
 8. Cod.Carmelitas 0-0 
 9. Cortegada 0-0 
 10. Ensino 0-0 
 11. Ferrol 0-0 
 12. Guadalajara 0-0 
 13. Ourense P. 0-0 
 14. Valladolid 0-0 
Group B
 1. Alcobendas 0-0 
 2. Casablanca 0-0 
 3. Conquero 0-0 
 4. Cravic Reus 0-0 
 5. Eivissa 0-0 
 6. Estudiantes 0-0 
 7. Gernika 0-0 
 8. Irlandesas 0-0 
 9. Las Gaunas 0-0 
 10. Las Rozas 0-0 
 11. Orion-GDKO 0-0 
 12. Pais Vasco 0-0 
 13. Palma 0-0 
 14. Real Canoe 0-0 
 15. Segle XXI 0-0 


UNB Obenasa Lacturale inks Amra Dapo - by Eurobasket News
Amra Dapo (184-G/F-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas) is a new member of UNB Obenasa Lacturale. The Croatian guard/small forward signed a deal for the next season. She spent last four years with Hondarribia-Irun. Dapo appeared 25 times in LFB last season averaging 7.5 points, 4 rebounds and 1.5 assists. Two years ago she had much better digits. For 26 games in 2009/10, Amra Dapo shined with 14.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1.6 apg. He joined Hondarribia-Irun in 2008 from Badajoz. In the past, Amra Dapo spent two years with MiZo Pecs. They won two Hungarian league titles and two Cups together. Dapo also has experience from Real Canoe, Perfumerias and Navarra.

Mann Filter grabs Maria Revuelto - by Eurobasket News
Mann Filter announced signing of their second new player for the next season. The team inked a one-year deal with Maria Revuelto (182-G-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas). The Spanish guard heads to her new team from Hondarribia-Irun. She played 25 games for them last season registering 5 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.9 apg. Revuelto also played for Hondarribia-Irun in 2009/10. At that time she had 6.9 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 1.6 spg for 12 games. From 2007 to 2009, Maria Revuelto was a member of Baloncesto San Jose Leon. She had 7.1 ppg, 3 rpg and 4.5 apg for 10 EuroCup games in their second season together. Maria Revuelto played for the Spanish National Team at the Olympic Games in Beijing three years ago. He appeared five times at this event averaging less than a point.

U16 Spain wins Qualifying Group F with perfect 5-0 - by Eurobasket News
U16 TURKEY - U16 SPAIN 35-83

Spain is the winner of Qualifying Group F with perfect 5-0 record. They will meet Greece in the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket in Cagliari. Turkey also advanced to the next stage, but as No.3 of this pool with 3-2 record. Their rival will be Sweden. Maria Jose Arroyo (6 rebs), Leticia Romero (174-F-95) and Alba Pena (177-F-95) scored 12 points each for the winners. Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) followed them with 11 pts. In the loosing squad, Busra Akbas (168-PG-95) delivered 9 points. Basak Altunbey and Ezgi Manlaci stopped to 6 points each. Quarters: 9-24, 7-21, 9-17, 10-21. Championship continues tomorrow.

Turkey: Ariadna Pujol 11, Busra Akbas 9
Spain: Maria Jose Arroyo 12+6 boards, Leticia Romero 12, Alba Pena 12

Maria Revuelto inks with Mann Filter - by Eurobasket News
Maria Revuelto (182-G-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) inks with Mann Filter for the next season. The Spanish Guard comes from Hondarribia-Irun.
Maria Revuelto started her professional career in 2006-2007 for Acis-Incosa Leon (LFB) and in EuroCup averaged 7.4ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.0apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 25.6%, 3FGP: 34.8%, FT: 80%. In Spanish League after 26 games her stats read 6.8ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 31.2%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 83.3%.
In 2007-2008 she played to Baloncesto San Jose Leon (LFB, starting five) and in EuroCup showed 8.8ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 75%, while in Spanish League after 31 games she had 6.9ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 32.0%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 83.0%.
In 2008-2009 for Baloncesto Feve San Jose Leon (LFB) her stats read 7.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.8apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 31.2%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 77.6% in Spanish League. In EuroCup after 10 games she had 7.1ppg, 3.0rpg, Assists-5 (4.5apg), 2.3spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 62.5%. In 2009-2010 moved to Hondarribia-Irun (LFB, starting five) and in 12 games showed 6.9ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 39.6%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 75.0%. Last season for Hondarribia-Irun (LFB) after 25 games she averaged 5.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.9apg, 1.3spg.
She recorded 14 points in her top game last season when Hondarribia-Irun beat at home Extrugasa 60-55. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Extrugasa won third quarter 13-11. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Hondarribia-Irun won last quarter 22-18. They made 27-of-32 charity shots (84.4 percent) during the game, while Extrugasa only scored nine points from the stripe. Hondarribia-Irun forced 20 Extrugasa turnovers. It was a very good performance for the former international guard Maria Revuelto who helped to win the game recording 14 points.


*****************************************************
  SWEDEN - Women  


2011 Universiade. Sweden makes the Semifinal appearance - by Eurobasket News
Russia-Sweden 60:68

Sweden makes the Semifinal appearance at the World University Games in China 2011. The Scandinavian team edged Russia 68:60 to advanced to Final Four.
Sweden started better and had 8:6 in the opening tip. They led to 14:10 at the end of the frame and enjoyed 19:15 in the middle of the second period. After another push Sweden grabbed 29:20 at the halftime. Russia bounced back with 23-18 in the third period and reduced to 47:43 after thirty minutes. Moreover Russia closed the gap at 56:55, but could not win the game.
Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) stepped up with 22 points for the winners and Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) netted 14. Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) followed them with 11 points each in a win. Tatiana Petrushina (185-F-90) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort. Natalia Myasoedova (193-C-87) notched 12, while Natalia Vieru (198-C-89) added 11.

Russia: Tatiana Petrushina 13, Natalia Myasoedova 12, Natalia Vieru 11
Sweden: Frida Eldebrink 22, Louice Halvarsson 14, Elin Eldebrink 11, Farhiya Abdi 11


U16 Russia beats U16 Sweden 62-56, both teams advance - by Eurobasket News
U16 RUSSIA - U16 SWEDEN 62-56

Russia was better than Sweden 62-56, but despite this win Russia finished as No.3 of Group E, while Sweden is the second ranked team of this pool. Both teams have 4-1 record and both advanced to the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket. There, Sweden will meet Turkey. Russia will take on the host - Italy. Ekaterina Tsukanova (183-F-95) stepped up for Russia in this meeting with 17 points. Ekaterina Ilinova (178-G) had 13 points and 6 assists, while Elizaveta Komarova (170-PG-95) added 8 points and 6 rebs. In Sweden, Regan Magarity (187-F-96) shined with double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds. Veronika Mirkovic (183-C-95) had 14 pts and 6 boards. Quarters: 28-15, 11-17, 17-6, 6-18. Championship continues tomorrow.

Russia: Ekaterina Tsukanova 17, Ekaterina Ilinova 13+6 as, Elizaveta Komarova 8+6 boards
Sweden: Regan Magarity 17+11 boards, Veronika Mirkovic 14+6 boards

*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND - Women  


U16 Romania heads to Quarterfinals in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 ROMANIA - U16 SWITZERLAND 55-44

Romania advanced to the Quarterfinals in Arad. The host of U16 EuroBasket was better than Switzerland 55-44 jumping to fourth place in Qualifying Group F with 2-3 record. It is enough for the Quarterfinals, where Romania will meet United Kingdom. Switzerland ended as the last ranked team of this pool winless (0-5). They will continue in Classification Round from 9-12 place. Simina Avram (190-C-95) led the hosts with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Iulia Pasca (175-F-95) scored 10 points. In the loosing squad, Tiffanie Zali (182-F-95) had 11 points and 10 rebounds. Miryam Sohm (175-F-95) followed with 10 pts and 6 rebs. Quarters: 11-19, 19-10, 12-6, 13-9. Championship continues tomorrow.

Romania: Simina Avram 15+9 boards, Iulia Pasca 10
Switzerland: Tiffanie Zali 11+10 boards, Miryam Sohm 10+6 boards

*****************************************************
  TAIWAN - Women  


Surprising Chinese Taipei reaches Semifinal Stage - by Eurobasket News
Chinese Taipei-Brazil 65:54

Surprising Chinese Taipei reaches Semifinal Stage at the World University Games in China 2011. The team edged Brazil to be the only representative from Asia in the Top 4.
It was a tough start and both teams paid too much attention to defense. The Asian team started with 6:4 and then increased to 19:10 after the first 10 minutes. In the second frame both teams nailed 8 points apiece for 27:18 at the halftime. Although Brazil cut it to 10 points midway through the third frame, Chinese Taipei grabbed 47:31 after thirty minutes. Brazil again came back to 9 points with 5 minutes to go, but could not come closer.
Huang Ping-Jen (178-F-89) poured in 21 points to lead the charge. Hsu Chien-Hui (171-G/F-89) and Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) followed her with 14 points each, while Huang Fan-Shan (173-G-87) scored 10. Nadia Calhado (196-C-89) answered with 24 points in the losing effort Leila Zabani (180-G/F-91) 9, Tassia Carcavalli (179-F-92) 9

Chinese Taipei: Huang Ping-Jen 21, Hsu Chien-Hui 14, Chen Yu-Chun 14, Huang Fan-Shan 10
Brazil: Nadia Calhado 24, Leila Zabani 9, Tassia Carcavalli 9


*****************************************************
  TURKEY - Women  


U16 Spain wins Qualifying Group F with perfect 5-0 - by Eurobasket News
U16 TURKEY - U16 SPAIN 35-83

Spain is the winner of Qualifying Group F with perfect 5-0 record. They will meet Greece in the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket in Cagliari. Turkey also advanced to the next stage, but as No.3 of this pool with 3-2 record. Their rival will be Sweden. Maria Jose Arroyo (6 rebs), Leticia Romero (174-F-95) and Alba Pena (177-F-95) scored 12 points each for the winners. Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) followed them with 11 pts. In the loosing squad, Busra Akbas (168-PG-95) delivered 9 points. Basak Altunbey and Ezgi Manlaci stopped to 6 points each. Quarters: 9-24, 7-21, 9-17, 10-21. Championship continues tomorrow.

Turkey: Ariadna Pujol 11, Busra Akbas 9
Spain: Maria Jose Arroyo 12+6 boards, Leticia Romero 12, Alba Pena 12

*****************************************************
  UKRAINE - Women  


U16 UK is the winner of Group E in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 UNITED KINGDOM - U16 UKRAINE 52-38

United Kingdom is the winner of Qualifying Group E in Arad. They outplayed Ukraine 52-38 for 4-1 record in this pool, what was enough for the first place. UK will meet Romania in the Quarterfinals. Ukraine also advanced to the next stage, but as No.4 of this group with 2-3 record. Their rival will be Germany. Jay-Ann Bravo-Harriott (183-PG-95) led UK to victory with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Shequila Joseph (189-F-95) had 15 points and 6 boards, while Leah McDerment (180-PG-96) added 11 pts. In the loosing squad, Alina Popova (180-F-95) delivered 11 points. Their second scorer was Nataliya Skorbatyuk (183-F-95) with 9 pts. Quarters: 6-7, 14-12, 16-7, 16-12. Championship continues tomorrow.

United Kingdom: Jay-Ann Bravo-Harriott 17+5 boards, Shequila Joseph 15+6 boards, Leah McDerment 1
Ukraine: Alina Popova 11, Nataliya Skorbatyuk 9

*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM - Women  


U16 UK is the winner of Group E in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 UNITED KINGDOM - U16 UKRAINE 52-38

United Kingdom is the winner of Qualifying Group E in Arad. They outplayed Ukraine 52-38 for 4-1 record in this pool, what was enough for the first place. UK will meet Romania in the Quarterfinals. Ukraine also advanced to the next stage, but as No.4 of this group with 2-3 record. Their rival will be Germany. Jay-Ann Bravo-Harriott (183-PG-95) led UK to victory with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Shequila Joseph (189-F-95) had 15 points and 6 boards, while Leah McDerment (180-PG-96) added 11 pts. In the loosing squad, Alina Popova (180-F-95) delivered 11 points. Their second scorer was Nataliya Skorbatyuk (183-F-95) with 9 pts. Quarters: 6-7, 14-12, 16-7, 16-12. Championship continues tomorrow.

United Kingdom: Jay-Ann Bravo-Harriott 17+5 boards, Shequila Joseph 15+6 boards, Leah McDerment 1
Ukraine: Alina Popova 11, Nataliya Skorbatyuk 9

2011 Universiade. The Baltic side edged United Kingdom in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
United Kingdom-Lithuania 69:79

The Baltic side edged United Kingdom in Shenzhen at the Classification Round for 9-16 places in the World University Games. Lithuania needed 79:69 victory to play for 9-12 places.
Lina Aglinskaite (182-F-87) opened the game from the perimeter and Mazionyte brought 12:8. The Baltic team finished the frame with 7-0 run as Sniokaite brought 23:12. Both teams scored 14 points apiece in the second frame that showed 37:26 at the halftime. Lithuania erupted with 22-14 in the third period and had 59:40 entering the last stanza. They led 14 points with 5 minutes to go, while the opponents managed to cut it to 10.
United Kingdom scored 36 points in the Paint and Lithuania 24.
Lina Aglinskaite stepped up with 21 points, while Gintare Mazionyte (186-F/C-91) followed her with 20. Chantelle Handy (191-F/C-87, college: Marshall) ended up with 19 points in the losing case and Rose Anderson (175-G-88) posted 10.

United Kingdom: Chantelle Handy 19, Rose Anderson 10
Lithuania: Lina Aglinskaite 21, Gintare Mazionyte 20


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


Arena previously booked dates forces WUSBA to adjust fall basketball schedule and teams - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga. (August 18, 2011) ---Final team site selections for the 2011 Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) inaugural season are now complete. Opening day is scheduled for Wednesday night September 14, 2011. The league will field eight teams. 'This is very exciting for us, we see us playing a significant role in the world of womens basketball', said WUSBA President and C.E.O, Duane Allen Jenkins. 'The United States is ready to support a second womens basketball league'. 'Originally we were going with sixteen venues who did agree to rent to us, however, we found out last week that some of our venues had a full fall schedule and subsequently we had to make some major adjustments. In the spring we will be back at full roster, starting with eight teams is better that not starting at all', said Jenkins. 'After numerous delays for one reason or another, we are now ready to play some basketball'.

The league was originally set to begin in the summer of this year. 'We found out that eight of our rented gyms did not have central air conditioning, subsequently we began to formulate a fall season in late May. In early August, we began to realize that all of our schools have many departments that hold precedent on the usage of the gymnasium, in most cases there is only one gym at the university and the students get first rights of usage', said Jenkins. 'Now we will take all necessary steps to perfect the season properly'.

The league prefers gymnasiums from colleges, universities and large high schools to house their teams. 'We have had all along home arenas under agreement in each team city; we will keep the gymnasiums currently under contract we already have. This will be our only fall season; we will formally play our league in the spring', said Jenkins

According to league sources the WUSBA will begin a spring campaign on April 11, 2012 and conclude the spring season on June 30, 2012. 'We are going to conduct free camps at the 2012 NCAA Womens National Championship in Denver, Colorado in the first week of April, we should be able to find Americas best talent at the show', said Jenkins.

The league schedule will change as well. Each team will play a twenty four game schedule. Selected players will report to team camps on September 1, 2011. The basketball season starts September 14, 2011 with the Feeding America Can Slam Games. 'We want all fans to bring four can goods to the game, those who do will get a single game ticket for half price and a chance to win a Golden Corral Buffet Restaurant gift card'. Each team will give away ten gift cards during the opening game.

The regular campaign begins September 14, 2011 and end November 5, 2011. There is an All Star Classic Game scheduled for November 12, 2011. The Championship game will be held on November 14, 2011. Both the All Star game and the Championship game will be held in Macon, Georgia. All teams will participate in the playoffs. The league will conduct single game elimination championship tournament. The Coralee Hunter Memorial Championship Trophy will be awarded to the top team.

The league has partnership with churches, civic groups and charitable organizations in each individual team city. The WUSBA offers support to local Churchs, the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Feeding America and the USMC Toys for Tots. The league is also extending a very special invitation to children in foster care each city and children housed in juvenile detention centers. The league has authorized each team to conduct educational contest between clubs to select children to be official ball girls and boys. 'We'll invite all groups who help children to contact the league and well issue complimentary tickets to these groups to our home games. The selected children to be the ball kids will receive $25.00 apiece per game for their services,' said Jenkins.

'Having a complete year to prepare, now its full steam ahead,' said WUSBA Executive Vice President, Kenneth Green. 'This is a prime opportunity for us to activate the league'. 'We now have an opportunity to properly prepare to present a quality product for the players, coaches and especially our fans. Our fans will have ample access to the coaches and players', said Green. An Open House, Job Fair and Individual tryouts for each team will be held on September 3 and September 10, 2011 in each team city. The league will begin its inaugural season with the following teams, Atlanta Platinum, the Birmingham Starz ,the Charlotte Blue Wave, the Columbia Breeze, the Augusta Raging River, the Chattanooga Royal, the Jacksonville Surf and the Savannah Seahawks

The leagues season ticket and game promotions packages are now available . The season ticket promotion is called the 2011 WUSBA Season Ticket Extravaganza; the promotion is available in each city. This season ticket promotion is a special event for the fans and is sponsored by the advertisers and sponsors of the WUSBA. The league made 1500 single season tickets available in each city for this promotion. 'This collaborated effort includes the WUSBA, the WUSBA Youth Outreach, Inc., and many of the leagues partners, sponsors and advertisers,' said Jenkins.

The league has set the price of $85.00 per season ticket. Each season ticket comes with admission to all twelve home games and twelve free single game tickets; this also includes admittance to all home playoff games. As a bonus, fans receive priority seating, complimentary concessions, a free game day program and a 24-inch x 36-inch full color poster with the basketball team or the dance team. (The total number of admittance per season ticket is 28, which breaks down to $3.32 per admittance). 'We designed the WUSBA basketball games to be family friendly, our promotions, our entertainment and our prices will fit right into anyones budget,' said Jenkins



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  UZBEKISTAN - Women  


Uzbekistan National Team 2011 - by Karol
Uzbekistan National Team 2011
#s#
Natalya Koneva
Koneva
Nigorakhon Ismailova
Ismailova
Marina Zakharova
Zakharova
Guzal Burieva
Burieva
Ekaterina Obechkina
Obechkina
#e#5
4 Natalya Koneva 170-G-89
5 Nigorakhon Ismailova 172-G-85
6 Marina Zakharova 170-G-86
7 Guzal Burieva 89
8 Ekaterina Obechkina 182-F-85
9 Yelena Khusnitdinova 85 NikaNMMC Belarus
10 Anastasiya Mikulenko 193-F/C-88
11 Irina Polunina 176-G-79 Okzhetpes Kazakhstan
12 Irina Averyanova 185-F-84 Barsy Atyr. Kazakhstan
13 Kamilla Sabirjanova 180-F/C-92
14 Lyudmila Komarova 190-C-93
15 Yuliya Kashuba 174-G-87 Okzhetpes Kazakhstan

Stepan Lebedev Head Coach


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  WORLD UNIVERSITY GAMES - Women  


Sweden, USA, Taiwan and Australia advanced to the Semifinals - by Eurobasket News
Quarterfinal
Taiwan - Brazil 65-54
Surprising Chinese Taipei reaches Semifinal Stage at the World University Games in China 2011. The team edged Brazil to be the only representative from Asia in the Top 4. It was a tough start and both teams paid too much attention to defense. The Asian team started with 6:4 and then increased to 19:10 after the first 10 minutes. In the second frame both teams nailed 8 points apiece for 27:18 at the halftime. Although Brazil cut it to 10 points midway through the third frame, Chinese Taipei grabbed 47:31 after thirty minutes. Brazil again came back to 9 points with 5 minutes to go, but could not come closer. Huang Ping-Jen (178-F-89) poured in 21 points to lead the charge. Hsu Chien-Hui (171-G/F-89) and Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) followed her with 14 points each, while Huang Fan-Shan scored 10. Nadia Calhado (196-C-89) answered with 24 points in the losing effort Zabani Leila 9, Carcavalli Tassia 9

USA - Finland 96-30
USA destroyed Finland to step closer to the tile defense at the World University Games in China 2011. The defending champions overwhelmed Finland 96:30 to advance to the semis. USA erupted with 21-0 run at the very start and shocked the Scandinavian side. They reached 32:10 at the end of the first period and did not even think of slowing down. After 21-7 in the second period the board showed 53:17 at the halftime. Led by Elena Delle Donne (195-G/F-89) and Devereaux Peters (187-F-89), USA reached 57:20 after 25 minutes in the court and enjoyed 73:24 at the end of the third quarter. The task for the last period was to score three-digit number, however USA was satisfied with 98. Finland meanwhile could not score in the last 5 minutes. Elena Delle Donne and Devereaux Peters top-scored for the winners with 17 points each, while Ogwumike Nnemkadi added 12. Gemelos Jacqueline and Chinenye Ogwumike (191-F-92) followed them with 10 points apiece.

Russia - Sweden 60-68
Sweden makes the Semifinal appearance at the World University Games in China 2011. The Scandinavian team edged Russia 68:60 to advanced to Final Four. Sweden started better and had 8:6 in the opening tip. They led to 14:10 at the end of the frame and enjoyed 19:15 in the middle of the second period. After another push Sweden grabbed 29:20 at the halftime. Russia bounced back with 23-18 in the third period and reduced to 47:43 after thirty minutes. Moreover Russia closed the gap at 56:55, but could not win the game. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) stepped up with 22 points for the winners and Halvarsson Louice netted 14. Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Abdi Farhiya followed them with 11 points each in a win. Tatiana Petrushina (185-F-90) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort. Myasoedova Natalia notched 12, while Vieru Natalia added 11.

Australia - Canada 79-44
Australia advanced to the Final Four of the World University Games in China 2011. The team edged Canada 79:44 in the Quarterfinal clash on Thursday. Canada opened the game with 5-0 run, but Australian side replied with 14-0 run. Pinske scored for 14:7, while the favorites never looked behind after. Ebzery closed the frame at 25:14 and Tess Madgen (180-G/F-90) added two in the start of the second. Both teams added 16 points each for their account in the second frame that brought 41:30 at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Australia erupted with 27-9 for 68:39 at the end of thirty minutes. Another 11-5 in the last stanza sent them to the Top 4 in China. Tess Madgen and Cayla Francis (192-C-89) stepped up with 14 points for the winners. Bishop Abby nailed 12, while Mia Newley (184-G-88) added 10. Kendel Ross (185-G/F-88, college: Dayton) ended up with 15 points in the losing effort, whilst Justine Colley (175-G-91) scored 10.



9-16 places
China - Slovakia 75-53
China overcame Slovak Republic at the Classification Round for 9-16 places in the World University Games. The home side needed 75:53 and will play for 9-12 places. Slovak Republic grabbed 6-2 in the opening tip, but lost the first frame 16:14. The hosts of the tournament led 25:20 after 15 minutes of the game and reached 37:31 at the halftime. They continued to dominate the court and increased to 48:37 midway through the third frame. After 18-16 in it China had 55:47 after thirty minutes in the court. Another defensive 20-6 in the last stanza brought the victory for the Asian team. Wang Yajie (183-F-89) erupted with 27 points, while Shao Ting (183-F-89) notched 15. Zhai Huan (178-F-89) nailed 11, while Wang Miqi posted 10. Katarina Tetemondova (187-F-88) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort and Kmetova Eva added 10.

United Kingdom - Lithuania 69-79
The Baltic side edged United Kingdom in Shenzhen at the Classification Round for 9-16 places in the World University Games. Lithuania needed 79:69 victory to play for 9-12 places. Lina Aglinskaite (182-F-87) opened the game from the perimeter and Mazionyte brought 12:8. The Baltic team finished the frame with 7-0 run as Sniokaite brought 23:12. Both teams scored 14 points apiece in the second frame that showed 37:26 at the halftime. Lithuania erupted with 22-14 in the third period and had 59:40 entering the last stanza. They led 14 points with 5 minutes to go, while the opponents managed to cut it to 10. United Kingdom scored 36 points in the Paint and Lithuania 24. Lina Aglinskaite stepped up with 21 points, while Mazionyte Gintare followed her with 20. Chantelle Handy (191-F/C-87, college: Marshall) ended up with 19 points in the losing case and Anderson Rose posted 10.

Poland - Japan 66-73
Japan outscored Poland in Shenzhen at the Classification Round for 9-16 places in the World University Games. The Asian team needed a strong second quarter to win the game 73:66. Poland started the game with 13:6 and reached 22:15 at the end of the first period. They led 30:25 midway through the second frame, but lost the first half. Japan had a strong half at the end of the frame to take 37:33 halftime advantage. Moreover they improved to 50:37 early in the third and enjoyed 56:46 after three quarters. Poland won however the last period 20-17 to reduce to 7 points at the end. Mio Shinozaki (166-PG-91) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Azusa Sato (167-G-89) as well as Nao Sonoda (178-F-89) posted 14 each. Kurihara Mika followed them with 12 points for the win. Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk (188-F/C-89) collected 23 points and 16 rebounds in defeat and Skobel Agnieszka netted 19.