EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/20/2011

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Men News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Radnicki Kragujevac lands American center David Simon - by Eurobasket News
Simon David (207-C-82, college: IPFW) is a new member of Radnicki Kragujevac. The American big guy penned a one-year deal with his new club. He arrives to Radnicki from the Korean team Anyang KGC. Simon appeared 42 times for them last season averaging 20.2 points, 8.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.6 blocks. He finished as the fourth best scorer and fifth rebounder of the competition. Eurobasket awarded Simon with Korean KBL All-Imports Team -11. From 2008 until the last summer Simon David played for Strasbourg IG. He had 17.8 ppg, 8.3 rpg and 1.6 bpg for 6 EuroChallenge games in their second season together. He also has experience from Dijon, Samara and Lukoil Akademiik. With Lukoil, Simon David won the Bulgarian title and Cup in 2006.

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


26th Afrobasket: Madagascar fail home fans lose to Mali 63-74 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Not even the presence of over 5,000 fans could save Madagascar from suffering its second defeat in group-A of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men as it go down to a rejuvenated Mali by 63-74 points in Antananarivo.

After taking a 23-14 points first quarter advantage Madagascar failed to maintain the tempo thus allowing the Malian to fight back in the second quarter forcing Madagascar to make series of mistakes Madagascar eventually lost the second , third and fourth quarters by 07-13, 17-23 and 16-24 points respectively.

Mali play-maker and point guard Modibo Niakate led the floor with 20 points, 5 rebounds, 4 steals and gave 2 assists for his side hard earn win.

Mali reliable forward Mohamed Tangara had an excellent game posting a double double figure of 19 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists while 2006 FIBA Africa Championship for U18 Men most valuable player Waly Coulibaly added 11 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds and 2 steals to seal victory for their side who now have a 1-1 record.
Mohamed Tangara (208-F/C-84, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: Arizona)

26th Afrobasket: Mozambique bow to Nigeria 63-78 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Mozambique was down by Nigeria in both sides second group-A game Friday at the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket. The Mozambican lost by 63-78 points to a more composed Nigerian side.

The Mozambican lost the first three quarters by 11-20, 21-23, 14-18 and drew levels in the last quarter by 17 points apiece.

Nigeria and San Antonio Spurs guard, Ime Udoka led the Coach Ayo Bakare tutored Nigerian side with a treble effort of 13 points, 11 assists, 10 rebounds and 2 steals to give DTigers as the Nigeria senior national team is known a clean slate.

DTigers and former Union Bank basketball club of Lagos forward Ejike Ugboaja added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 2 block-shots, shooting sensation Derrick Obasohan had 11 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists, Olumide Oyedeji contributed 10 points and 9 rebounds with Nigeria DStv Premier Basketball League reliable Abubakar Usman recording seventy-five percent from the three pointer scoring three of four attempt in the few minutes he stepped on court.


26th Afrobasket: Gallant South Africa lose to Cameroon 65-87 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
With better improvement from their Group-C opening game against Cote dIvoire on Wednesday South Africa Friday loses its second first round game to Cameroon by 65-87 points.

Though South Africa lost the first three quarters 17-23, 13-17, 11-24 and won the last one by 24-23 points their fighting spirit was never in doubt as they showed lots of improvement and promises.

Cameroon big forward Gaston Essengue led the floor with 18 points, 4 steals and 3 rebounds, Cyrille Makanda had 15 points and 3 rebounds, Prfait Bitee added 13 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals with Frank Ndongo posting 12 points, 4 steals and 3 rebounds for the second win for the Lions.

Cameroon coach Lazare Adingono praised the fighting spirit of the South African.

The coach whose side face Cote dIvoire on Sunday in his team last group-C game said they are not under any pressure.

Coach Adingono also thumm-up effort of FIBA Africa in raising the stake of Africa basketball but concluded that the continent can do more.


26th Afrobasket: Cote DIvoire loses crunchy tie to Egypt - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Cote dIvoire hope of making it two-on-two was dashed by Egypt in a group-C tie of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men after taking a 19-13 points lead in the first quarter.

The Ivorians bow to the superior fire power of the Ibrahim El-Gammal in the second quarter losing by 16-27 points for a half-time deficit of 35-40 points.

Cote dIvoire tried to come into the game at the resumption of play in third quarter yielded a 17-14 points win taking a two points deficit going into the last quarter but gave up when it matter most losing the fourth and decisive quarter by 23-28 points for a final score-line of 75-82 points.

Gammal led the floor with 21 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists, Mohamed El-Kerdany had 11 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists with Amr El-Gendy adding up 11 points, 2 rebounds and 2 steal to restore the hope of the five-time champion after losing its group-C opener to Cameroon on Wednesday.


Day Two in Antananarivo (with stats) - by Eurobasket News
Group B
Morocco - Senegal 65-79
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. Maleye NDoye (203-F-80, college: Furman) led the floor with 23 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists, Mouhammad Faye (208-F-85, college: SMU) added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists with Malick Badiane (211-F/C-84) grabbing a double double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

Angola - Chad 115-56
Defending champion Angola shined in their first appearance at the AfroBasket 2011 in Antananarivo. They destroyed Chad 115-56 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Carlos Morais (190-G-85) was the leading player in victory with 25 points and 6 rebounds. He reached valuation 24 and was the MVP of this meeting. Joaquim Gomes (200-C/F-80, college: Valparaiso) had 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Simao Santos (198-F-79) and Milton Barros (184-G-84) helped with 12 points each. On the other side, Chad had only one player with double-digits in scoring. It was Mickael Koibe (198-F/G-92) with 11 pts. Richard Moguena (200-F-86) (5 rebs) and Mario Ngadi netted 8 points each. Quarters: 35-17, 33-7, 21-13, 26-19. In the next game, Angola will play against Senegal. Chad will meet Morocco.

Group D
Tunisia - Togo 103-56
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 Romdhane (198-F-89) led his team with 20 points 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and one block-shot, Mourad El Mabrouk (190-G-86) 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. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

Central Africa - Rwanda 89-61
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 (206-F-86, college: Clemson) led the floor with 24 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assist, Regis Koundjia-Sindo (203-F-83, college: George Washington) recorded 13 points and 5 rebounds while the duo of Lionel Bomayako (196-G-78, agency: Court Side, college: Fairleigh Dickinson) and Max Martial Kounguere added 12 points and 10 points 5 rebounds and 2 steals for their side victory. *By Olusegun Ikuesan



Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Nigeria2-0
2. Mali1-1
3. Mozambique.1-1
4. Madagascar.0-2
Group B
1. Senegal1-0
2. Angola1-0
3. Chad0-1
4. Morocco0-1
Group C
1. Cameroon2-0
2. Ivory Coas.1-0
3. Egypt0-1
4. S.Africa0-2
Group D
1. C.Africa1-0
2. Tunisia1-0
3. Rwanda0-1
4. Togo0-1


26th Afrobasket: Preview - South Africa Vs Cameroon - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Basking in its 96-81 points defeat of Egypt on Wednesday in a group-C game, Cameroon runner-up in 2007 will today take on South Africa in its search for a comfortable placement in the group in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

The Lions coached by Lazare Adingono will rely on their strength against a South African side who were given a dose of the FIBA Africa Championship when they lost Cote dIvoire by 105-53 points in the 26th edition opening game Wednesday.

Coach Adingonos Lions will bank on Christain Bayang who recently moved to AS Sale basketball club of Morocco, Parfait Bitee who currently lead other players in the championship in scoring with 29 points.

South Africa on its part will look up to Malatia Loate, David Letsebe as they file out at 12H30 against the Lions.

Beaming with confident Coach Adingono said South Africa cannot stop Cameroon macth to topping the group.

Preview: Mozambie Vs Nigeria

The second group-A game between Mozambique who parade a hundred home-based players will try Nigeria for size at 15H00 as both sides search for who will emerge leader of the group.

Mozambique who defied the vociferous fans on Wednesday when it take on host Madagascar winning by 77-67 must be at their best to stop the Nigerian side coached by Ayo Bakare.

Mozambique coach Joseba Garcia will look upon the likes of Stelio Nuaila, David Canivete Jr to halt the Nigerian who will bank on the shooting form of Derrick Obasohan and Ime Udoka and the inside presence of Olumide Oyedeji.

Nigeria coach, Bakare says the Mozambican will be treated with respect they deserve but want Nigerians back home to be rest assured that DTigers will not fail to deliver.

Yes, I am confident that we will surely carry the day as the end of the forty minutes basketball action but it will be wrong for any coach to underrat the other teams in the championship and so we shall give due respect to all our opponent and that include Mozambique but we will not lose focus.

The game promises to be one of the top-of-the-bill game today.

Preview: Madagascar Vs Mali

The Madagascar and Mali game billed for 17H30 is one game that will be interesting to watch as both sides searches for a winning formula to help it escape placing last group-A.

While Madagascar submitted to the gut and determination of Mozambique on Wednesday Mali on other hand fell to Nigeria.

Madagascar will bank on its fans as Coach Angel Manzano Polo seek Angelic form to take his team past Mali who are still sucking from its lose to Nigeria.

Madagascar will rely on Romule Razafimahasahy, Charles Ramsdell in the big challenege against Mali who will depend on Spain-based Mohamed Tangara and the rest of the squad for the all-important game.

Preview: Cote DIvoire Vs Egypt

This game promises to be the biggest match of today as Cote DIvoire would want to hold on to its clean slate while Egypt got brushed aside by Cameroon Wednesday searches for its first win.

Both countries know what it takes to win todays game as they have seven titles between them with Egypt winning the African title five times in the past championship while Cote DIvoire have been crowned twice and finish second behind Angola in 2009.

Cote DIvoire will depend on the inspirational play of Midland Community College guard Guy Landry Edy, Spain-based centre Mohamed Kone to carry on in group-C, Egypt on the other hand will look in the direction of Amr El-Gendy, Rami Ibrahim in its bid to play itself back into reckoning.
Ime Udoka (196-F/G-77, agency: Priority Sports, college: Portland St.)

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  AUSTRALIA   


SBL: Payne-ful victory for Lightning against Hawks in game two - by Eurobasket News
Lakeside Lightning have held off a fierce Total Connections Perry Lakes Hawks comeback in game two to force their men's State Basketball League semi-finals series to a deciding third game.

The Lightning survived a late scare to level the best-of-three series at 1-1 with a 92-88 win on Friday at Lakeside Recreation Centre to set up the deciding game at the same venue on Saturday, which will determine who will face Wanneroo in the Grand Final.

But victory may have come at a huge cost for Lakeside, which lost star import Luke Payne (188-G-85, college: USC Upstate) to an apparent leg injury early in the third quarter.

Payne, who finished with 13 points, was forced off after a seemingly innocuous incident and didn't return to the court. He briefly returned to the bench in a tracksuit later on but walked with a significant limp and went to hospital at the end of the match, which suggests his availability for game three is in serious doubt.

Despite Payne's injury, the Lightning were still able to build a 19-point lead late in the third quarter and appeared set to hold on for a comfortable victory when their advantage was still 16 with five minutes left in the match.

But Anthony Lee, who produced a stunning second half to finish with 33 points, led a 14-2 run for the Hawks to cut the margin to four with nearly two minutes remaining.

Lee missed a three-point attempt to bring Perry Lakes within one point with a minute left and a Jarrad Prue basket on the next possession ensured Lakeside maintained its perfect home record.

American forward Ben Beran (200-C-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: S.Dakota St.) top-scored for the Lightning with 34 points, but it was their 57-42 dominance of the boards, led by veteran centre Prue (29 rebounds) which was the biggest factor.

Lee had just five points for the Hawks at half-time but almost single-handedly led his side's comeback with a dominant second half, while Ben Purser had 19 points despite being held scoreless in the second half.

Although the Lightning were able to open up a big gap after half-time, they struggled at times in the first half.

Lakeside's ability to score the ball was a problem late in game one and it was again early in the second match, as it shot just three for 24 from the field in the first quarter, which saw it trail by eight at the first break.

But the Lightning, who were playing in front of a home crowd in excess of 500 people, started the second quarter on a 12-0 run to take the lead.

Perry Lakes briefly hit the front again late in the second, but Lakeside fought back to take a four-point advantage to half-time and never relinquished the lead after that, despite the late scare.

Article by Jacob Kagi at Lakeside Recreation Centre
Courtesy of: SBL



Hawks and Lightning set for close finish (MSBL Semi-Finals Week Two Preview) - by Eurobasket News
Total Connections Perry Lakes Hawks will be trying to complete a major upset when their men's State Basketball League semi-finals series against Lakeside Lightning continues this weekend.

The Hawks ended Lakeside's 18-game winning streak with a 78-76 victory in game one of the best-of-three series last weekend and are just one win away from advancing to the Grand Final to face Wanneroo Wolves or Cockburn Cougars.

But Perry Lakes still must do what no team has done this season and beat the Lightning at Lakeside Recreation Centre, in either game two on Friday or game three, if required on Saturday, to qualify for its eighth Grand Final and seventh since 2000.

Lakeside had lost just twice all season before falling in game one and will have to overcome the absence of young guard Kyle Armour to maintain its perfect home record.

The Lightning had no answers for star Anthony Lee-Ingram (198-F, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Brescia (KY)) in game one as he finished with 38 points and 14 rebounds and they'll have to do a better job on the star Hawks forward to advance to their sixth Grand Final in seven years.

In the other series, Wanneroo will advance to the Grand Final for the first time since 1993 if it can wrap up its series against the Cougars.

The Wolves won game one 104-95 last week and will wrap up the series with victory in Friday's game two or Saturday's third game, if required.

But Wanneroo had a 1-0 lead and home-court advantage in its quarter-finals series against Willetton and needed a massive comeback in game three to avoid a series loss and will be hoping to win this series with fewer problems.

The Wolves will be boosted by the return of head coach Ben Ettridge, who was away for two weeks with the Australian wheelchair basketball team, but third seed Cockburn will still fancy its chances of an upset.

The Cougars got their usual strong production from imports Ty Harrelson (193-G-80, college: Wayland Baptist) (27 points) and Stanley Ocitti (203-F/C-80, college: Binghamton) (23 points and 10 rebounds) in game one, but will need some of their local talent to step up to take the series.

Cockburn will be desperate to keep its hopes of breaking its 18-year title drought alive with victory in the series.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL

SBL: Wolfpack roar past Cougars and into Grand Final - by Eurobasket News
Wanneroo Wolves have booked a place in the mens State Basketball League Grand Final for the first time in 18 years with a 113-76 hiding over Cockburn Cougars at Joondalup Basketball Stadium on Friday.

The win meant a sweep in the best-of-three for the Wolves after they claimed game-one at Wally Hagan Stadium 104-95.

Wolves captain Greg Hire (201-F-87, college: Augusta St.) showed why he was the man handed the tenth spot on the Wildcats roster with a dominant first half of 23 points to set up the win and finished up with 34 as well 25 rebounds.

Hire's tremendous effort saw Wanneroo advance to the Grand Final for the first time since 1993, when it ironically beat Cockburn in its only appearance in the title decider.

Wanneroo started the second half perfectly with 13 consecutive Sebastian Salinas (190-G-85) points early in the third starting the nightmare for the visitors, who were outscored 65-38 in the second half.

Ty Harrelson was the Cougars' top scorer with 16 points and also contributed eight rebounds, but it wasn't enough to keep alive his side's hopes of ending its championship drought, which dates back to 1992.

Wanneroo coach Ben Ettridge said he was impressed with the side as a whole but Greg Hire stood up brilliantly.

Greg Hire just comes to play but it was an all-round great team effort,' Ettridge said.

Experience is what wins games in playoffs, the experience showed through.

Youve got to look at the experience of our guys and what they (Cockburn) had on the floor. Those kids have got better from last year and theyll be better again next year.

This is uncharted waters for us but well let them enjoy it and Tuesday night at practice well get out feet back on the ground and start focussing on either Perry Lakes or Lakeside.

Senior Wolves player Tony Pearman (186-G-79) said he couldnt wait for the week ahead.

Yeah pretty excited to make a grand-final. One more, one more win,' he said.

We just ran our high-low, got it into the big fellas in tight and it happened to work.

Wanneroo will face either Lakeside or Perry Lakes in the Grand Final, with that series to be decided in game-three on Saturday.

Article by Ben Cameron at Joondalup Basketball Stadium
Courtesy of: SBL

Sixers snap up Helliwell - by Eurobasket News
The Adelaide 36ers team for the 2011/12 season is now complete, with the 10-man roster finalised today by the announcement that Wade Helliwell (212-C-79, college: Charlotte), a senior and very experienced player, will join the team.

Arriving in Adelaide today, the 211 cm, 33 year old centre is looking forward to nothing more than immediately joining his new team, centre court at the Adelaide Arena (the 36ers home).

Marty Clark, Head Coach of the Adelaide36ers (who is currently away with the Boomers, Australian mens national team in London) said prior to his departure that Helliwell will provide leadership and experience to the team.

Wade completes our roster, now giving us an extremely versatile and talented front court where his size, strength and toughness will be invaluable, said Clark.

Helliwell began his professional career in Brisbane, going on to spend the next seven years playing in Europe at the top level in both Greece and Italy before returning home to Australia last season.

Avergaing four points and 2.6 rebounds in 14 minutes per game last season, the Adelaide 36ers can expect a stellar performance this year, combating any height deficits the team may have experienced in the past.

Helliwell has represented Australia at the 2006 FIBA World Championships in Japan as well as spending six years (2002 2008) as an Australian Boomer representative.

We are really excited to have a 7 foot, experienced player of Wades caliber join the team this year as our 10th signing. The club sees this as another step forward as we work towards climbing up the NBL ladder.

In other team news, the Adelaide36ers 2010/11 Most Valuable Player, Adam Ballinger is likely to undergo exploratory surgery later this week to look at the recurrence of an ankle injury.

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

Hawks add Donavan Monroe to complete 2011/12 roster - by Eurobasket News
The Wollongong Hawks have announced the signing of American point guard Donavan Monroe (190-G, college: Charleston).

The announcement completes the 2011/12 Hawks contracted roster. Monroe recently completed his senior year with the College of Charleston averaging 12.4 points and 2.6 assists per game in just over 33 minutes per game.

Were excited to have Donavan be part of our program for this season, said Hawks Head Coach Gordie McLeod.

It was a timely process in selecting a point guard that would compliment and work well with our current core of returning players. Were confident that Donavan will fit well within our system and contribute to the team, he added.

He has the next month and a half to learn our system and get accustomed to the style of NBL basketball. Im really looking forward to seeing him work hard with the team this season.

Monroe flew into Australia today from his home state of North Carolina and will hit the training court as soon as possible and is hopeful of being cleared to play against the Sydney Kings at the Snakepit on Sunday 28 August.

Its great to be in Australia and starting my pro career here in Wollongong. I just got here today and everyone has welcomed me with open arms, said Monroe.

Ive been talking with Coach McLeod for the past several weeks about the program here and really looking forward to this season with the Hawks.

The past four years in college has been an unreal experience, but now is the time to take that next step as a pro, he added.

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

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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Darius Pakamanis returns to Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Darius Pakamanis (192-G-81) is coming back to Lithuania. The 29-year-old guard has agreed on terms of contract with Juventus. Darius Pakamanis played for Melilla Baloncesto last season. He tallied 5.7 points and 1.6 rebounds per game in LEB Gold. Darius Pakamanis is not new to Juventus. He joined the team in November 2009. His stats read 13.4 points, 4.3 boards, 1.7 steals and 1.6 assists per game in LKL. In Baltic League Darius Pakamanis posted 9.3 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists per appearance. Darius Pakamanis played for Lithuanian University National Team. The guard was also on the roster of Lithuanian National Team back in 2006.


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  BOSNIA   


Dino Muminovic signs with Cajasol - by Nedzad Kladusak
According to the Bosnian tabloid 'Dnevni Avaz' Dino Muminovic (198-G/F-84), son of the former KK Sloboda coach Senad Muminovic penned a two-year deal with Cajasol.
DIno Muminovic, who plays on the 2-3 position, has been on the preliminar roster of U16 headcoach Damir Zeljkovic but he missed the EC in Strumica due to a injury. Dino Muminovic is the seventh young bosnian player in Spain.
The roster of Sloboda Dita is in complete dissolution. After Drasko Albijanic (211-C-86), Mirza Hrncic (203-F/C-86), Mirza Bulic (204-F-92), Dino Muminovic also Zlatan Halilbegovic (187-G-87) left the team. He signed with KK Capljina.

Muhamed Pasalic joins Kavala - by Eurobasket News
Kavala added another Bosman for the next season. After Nikola Jovanovic (203-C/F-81, agency: BeoExcell), the Greek outfit penned a deal with Bosnian Muhamed Pasalic (192-G-87, agency: Interperformances). The 23-year-old guard heads to Greece from Bosna ASA BHT. He had 13.3 ppg, 2.2 rpg, 4.7 apg and 1.2 spg for them in 28 Bosnian league games last season. Eurobasket awarded Pasalic with Bosnia and Herzegovina League All-Domestic Players Team -11. Pasalic joined Bosna ASA BHT in 2007 from Vogosca MIMS. He won the Bosnian league title with Bosna ASA BHT in 2007 and 2008. They also celebrated in Bosnian Cup in 2009 and 2010. Muhamed Pasalic is active member of the Bosnian National Team. In the past, he played for U18 Bosnia.

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  BRAZIL   


Renan Leichtweis joins Palencia - by Eurobasket News
Palencia Baloncesto announced signing of Renan Leichtweis (207-C-89) for the next season. The Brazilian big guy already spent couple of years in Spain. He played for Adreilu Santurtzi last season. For 27 games in LEB Silver he averaged 10.5 points and 5.7 rebounds. Before that he played for Qalat Caja Sol Sevilla. Leichtweis was their member from 2008 to 2010. In their second season together Leichtweis averaged 12.1 points and 5.1 rebounds for 28 games in LEB Silver. In their first season he had much lower digits. Renan Leichtweis played for Ecija Cajasol in the past. He also was a member of the Brazilian U18 NT in 2005 and 2006.

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  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Hawks & Legs at the Double Double! - by David Edole
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI-- Two exciting matches kicked off the Championship series in both the Junior and Senior Kenny Funny Thomas Basketball League on Wednesday, August 17, 2011.

Four players had Doubles as both the Hawks and Legs took one nil leads. Game 2 takes place tonight, August 18, at the Multi Purpose Sports complex.

The Hawks cruised past Another Level 78-59 with Player of the Game, Javier Martinez leading the way with a double of 27 points and 30 rebounds. Ryan Alfred made his own double of 21 points and 10 rebounds and Shakiel Humphrey scored 11 points with 7 rebounds. Humphrey also provided 5 assists and Martinez, 5 blocks. For Another Level , who will have to take their game to new heights in game 2, Dione Blyden scored 12 points with 7 rebounds. Alward Forbes recorded a double of 11 points and 12 rebounds.

In the senior division, a tight encounter was burst open in the second half. East took an early 27-22 lead in the 1st quarter , maintained it in the second quarter going into the half time break 54 47 up, but then faltered throughout the second half as Player of the Game , Randy Chino George and Jason Edwin began to assert themselves on the game. By the end of the third quarter, Legs had claimed a lead of 6 points with the score at 73-67 and by the end of the 4th they ran out 102-95 winners.

Chino finished with a double of 19 points and 12 rebounds, Edwin added 29 points and Khalid Gerrard 16. For East, Shamal Caines notched 23 with David Bolo Lettsome and Ray Victor both scoring 20.



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  CAMEROON   


26th Afrobasket: Gallant South Africa lose to Cameroon 65-87 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
With better improvement from their Group-C opening game against Cote dIvoire on Wednesday South Africa Friday loses its second first round game to Cameroon by 65-87 points.

Though South Africa lost the first three quarters 17-23, 13-17, 11-24 and won the last one by 24-23 points their fighting spirit was never in doubt as they showed lots of improvement and promises.

Cameroon big forward Gaston Essengue led the floor with 18 points, 4 steals and 3 rebounds, Cyrille Makanda had 15 points and 3 rebounds, Prfait Bitee added 13 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals with Frank Ndongo posting 12 points, 4 steals and 3 rebounds for the second win for the Lions.

Cameroon coach Lazare Adingono praised the fighting spirit of the South African.

The coach whose side face Cote dIvoire on Sunday in his team last group-C game said they are not under any pressure.

Coach Adingono also thumm-up effort of FIBA Africa in raising the stake of Africa basketball but concluded that the continent can do more.


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  CANADA   


New Canadian basketball league to hold draft this weekend - by Eurobasket News
Andre Levingston has received an earful from critics who tell him there's no way a Canadian pro basketball league can survive.

Others before him have tried and failed, they say.

'I say they've never met anyone like me,'' he responds.

Levingston is a founder of the fledgling seven-team National Basketball League, which gets off the ground this weekend with a combine and draft in Toronto.

'We know we're only going to get once chance to do it the right way, and so we're not going to blow it,'' he said.

Since announcing the league's formation in mid-May, four teams have joined the original three, coaching staffs have been hired, and a schedule has been drawn up that will begin Oct. 29 with each club playing 36 games. The top four teams advance to playoffs in March.

The league's early days have made for long ones for Levingston and partner Ian McCarthy, who've spent a good chunk of the past few weeks meeting with mayors and heads of tourism in various Canadian cities.

He calls it a labour of love.

'We've been extremely busy, but at the same time it's something that we truly enjoy, it's a passion of our's first,'' Levingston said. ''We love the game of basketball, and what we're doing for the country, it's been priceless. I wouldn't change it for the world.''

The NBL was formed when three existing teams the Halifax Rainmen (of which Levingston is president and CEO), Saint John Mill Rats and Quebec Kebs left the Premier Basketball League amid complaints of poor management. Since then, NBL franchises have been formed in London, Ont., Oshawa, Ont., Moncton, N.B., and P.E.I.

Several basketball leagues and franchises have failed to survive in the past. The World Basketball League which included six Canadian teams was founded in 1987 by a group that included NBA Hall of Famer and Boston Celtics great Bob Cousy. That league, which had a height restriction of six foot five and under, folded in 1992.

The all-Canadian National Basketball League, which included eight teams, started up the same year but barely got off the ground, folding after less than two seasons.

Levingston said he and McCarthy are being careful about who they're allowing to buy into their league.

'We're not looking for individuals who are looking for a hobby of owning a basketball team, making it easy for them to walk away in the process and leaving cities in financial trouble,'' Levingston said. ''We're looking to do things the right way and we're going to take our time, we're going to make sure the right individuals are on board with what we're doing.''

The Oshawa franchise is owned by a group that includes real estate entrepreneur Isaac Olowolafe Jr., while the London Lightning owners are property developers Taylor Brown and Vito Frijia.

All 180 spots for this weekend's combine at Seneca College are filled, with the first day featuring players from outside Canada, and the second day reserved for Canadians. The league stipulates each team must have two Canadians.

Levingston believes with the possibility of an NBA lockout looming, it wouldn't be a stretch to see an NBA player suit up in the Canadian league.

'Absolutely, we sent a press release offering NBA players the opportunity to stay closer to home to play,'' he said. ''We know we won't get a LeBron James or a Kobe Bryant. But not everybody wants to go overseas, they want to stay closer to home. With the lockout looming, these guys need to play basketball and stay sharp, stay in shape, and be able to make a little bit of money. Even the money they make in our league can pay a mortgage.''

Top players are expected to make about $4,000 a month.

The typical NBL player, however, said Levingston, will come from the U.S. college system.

'The average player in our league is a high (NCAA) Div. 1 player that is very athletic,'' he said. ''The speed of our guys is going to be absolutely amazing, the strength of these players _ they're big, long. . . You'll see seven-foot players in our league, you'll see 200 or 300-pound guys that are extremely athletic for their size. The talent level is going to be extremely high.''

The NBL draft will be held Sunday at 7 p.m. at Rogers Centre.

Halifax, Saint John, and Quebec were able to protect five players from their previous rosters.

Courtesy of http://thechronicleherald.ca

*****************************************************
  CHAD   


Angola destroys Chad 115-56 in Antananarivo - by Eurobasket News
ANGOLA - CHAD 115-56

Defending champion Angola shined in their first appearance at the AfroBasket 2011 in Antananarivo. They destroyed Chad 115-56 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Carlos Morais (190-G-85) was the leading player in victory with 25 points and 6 rebounds. He reached valuation 24 and was the MVP of this meeting. Joaquim Gomes (200-C/F-80, college: Valparaiso) had 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Simao Santos (198-F-79) and Milton Barros (184-G-84) helped with 12 points each. On the other side, Chad had only one player with double-digits in scoring. It was Mickael Koibe (198-F/G-92) with 11 pts. Richard Moguena (200-F-86) (5 rebs) and Mario Ngadi (200-F-86) netted 8 points each. Quarters: 35-17, 33-7, 21-13, 26-19. In the next game, Angola will play against Senegal. Chad will meet Morocco.

Angola: Carlos Morais 25+6 boards, Joaquim Gomes 15+7 boards, Simao Santos 12, Milton Barros 12
Chad: Mickael Koibe 11, Richard Moguena 8+5 boards, Mario Ngadi 8

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


Report: Kobe Bryant hasn't signed in China yet - by Eurobasket News
There are a lot of reasons a report that said that Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) had signed with a Chinese professional team should be looked at with caution. First, because China has now passed a rule preventing NBA players from signing to play in China with an NBA out-out clause once the lockout is over.

Two, because it doesn't make a whole lot of sense right now. So with ESPN.com's report that Kobe has not in fact signed anywhere yet, it's pretty clear that everyone needs to pump the brakes on this one.

A source said, 'Kobe has not agreed with any team on anything. He is conducting due diligence and weighing various options.'

Kobe has a reported $1.5 million a month offer on the table from a Chinese team, which is a pretty hefty price. But nothing is moving towards a deal yet there. Kobe also has been in talks with Turkish team Besiktas, the club that signed Deron Williams. But the China option has always been a bit more intriguing for Bryant. Mainly because he's a rock star there as well as the fact that Nike has encouraged its clients to explore options there.

But again, no player -- at least star player -- is going to sign in China with the no opt-out rule. Kobe is certainly looking at the option but if China isn't going to allow NBA players to leave if the lockout is lifted, they might as well kiss the chance at Kobe goodbye. The dance though helps Kobe either way. His price tag is moving up with these reported Chinese offers and he still has options as to where he might go.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Chinese Basketball Association bans out-clauses in contracts with NBA players - by Eurobasket News
The Chinese Basketball Association has passed a rule prohibiting teams from signing NBA players to contracts that include out-clauses that would allow them to return to the U.S. once the lockout is over, according to reports out of China cited by HoopsHype and Pro Basketball Talk.

The new rule, which has been anticipated for several weeks, means Chinese teams cannot sign players under NBA contracts. The CBA has put together a list of 108 free agents who are eligible to be signed by Chinese teams, Pro Basketball Talk notes.

Kobe Bryant (198-G-78), Dwyane Wade (193-G-82, college: Marquette) and Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) are among the NBA stars who have been rumored to be considering a move to China, but all three are under contract with their current teams.

News of the new rule follows an earlier report that said Bryant will join Shanxi Zhongyu on November 1 if the lockout remains unsettled (editors' note: ESPN's Chris Broussard tweeted that Bryant has since denied that report). There has also been some buzz that theres a sentiment among Chinese teams that the league will not be able to enforce the rule and that teams will move forward in their efforts to sign NBA stars despite the new rule.

The reason for the rule change: The government-run CBA believes that bringing NBA stars aboard on a temporary basis will detract from the leagues growth. Teams, however, see revenue-generating opportunities in signing these players and believe that doing so would add to the stature of Chinese basketball.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

NBL:Jiangsu and Whampoa won Semi-Finals second games - by Eurobasket News
Changan Group - Jiangsu 88-92

The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 20-16. But Changan Group won second period 27-25. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Jiangsu forced 23 Changan Group turnovers. American forward Vincent Hunter (208-84, college: Arkansas) had a double-double by scoring 15 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and U.S. Virgin Isl.-Antiguan guard Julius Hodge (201-83, college: N.Carolina St.) chipped in 18 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. Four Jiangsu players scored in double figures. American guard Nick Stallings (190-83, college: Centenary) responded with 30 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists and his fellow American import center Darnell Cox (211-85, college: Miss.Valley St., agency: Court Side) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds (perfect from the field making all eight shots !!!).
Top scorers:
Jiangsu: F.Xin 21+1ast, H.Julius 18+7reb+5ast, H.Vincent 15+12reb+4ast, F.Hui 11+1reb, S.XianLing 9+2reb, W.YanQing 9+2reb
Changan Group: S.Nick 30+9reb+8ast, J.JunQi 19+3reb, C.Darnell 16+11reb, R.XiaTi 9+4reb, S.Lei 7+2reb+5ast, L.Peng 7+1reb
gschID: 134288


Whampoa - Sichuan 114-92

The game without a history. Whampoa led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Whampoa outrebounded Sichuan 43-32 including 16 on the offensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. Whampoa brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Alan Wiggins (206-85, college: USF) notched a double-double by scoring 30 points, 16 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 blocks to lead the effort and forward Eric Hicks (198-83, college: Cincinnati) supported him with 26 points and 11 rebounds. Even a double-double of 21 points and 15 assists by guard T.J. Bannister (180-84, college: Liberty) did not help to save the game for Sichuan. Forward Alexander McLean (203-85, agency: Strategic Sports) added 19 points and 12 rebounds for the guests. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Whampoa: W.Alan 30+16reb+4ast, H.Eric 26+11reb, J.Lei 17+2reb+4ast, W.Jing 11+2reb+3ast, Y.Ning 11+3reb+5ast, T.Chao 8+2reb+3ast
Sichuan: B.T.J. 21+4reb+15ast, M.Alexander 19+12reb+3ast, C.Ma 18+6reb, J.QiZhen 17+5reb+3ast, S.TianNong 10+2reb, L.Peng 7
gschID: 134289




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


Cedevita lands Matjaz Smodis - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Cedevita officially announced signing of Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79) for the next season. Smodis spent last five years with CSKA Moscow. In the latest one he had 7.6 ppg and 2.9 rpg in 34 Russian league games. In Euroleague, Smodis added 6.8 ppg and 2.7 rpg for 10 games. CSKA also competed in VTB United league, where the Slovenian PF registered 9.8 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 10 games. Matjaz Smodis missed the entire 2009/10 season due to injury. Before CSKA Moscow, he played for Climamio Bologna, Kinder and Krka Novo Mesto. Smodis is active member of the Slovenian National Team since 1998. In 2008, Matjaz Smodis was named Eurobasket.com All-Russian A Superleague Forward of the Year. He won many titles and personal awards so far in his career.

Ante Djugum joins Geoplin Slovan - by Eurobasket News
Ante Djugum (211-C-88, agency: Court Side) will continue his career in Slovenia. The Croatian big guy signed a deal with Geoplin Slovan. At the same time Slovan added Nejc Buda, Stefan Kosec and Luka Grum. Djugum started last season with the Bosnian team Brotnjo Citluk. He had 8.8 ppg and 2.9 rpg for them in 13 league games. In March this year he moved to Austrian Kapfenberg Bulls. With the Bulls Djugum had 1.2 ppg and 1.5 rpg in six games. Ante Djugum played for Kapfenberg also in 2009/10 season. He joined them for the second half of the season registering 3.7 ppg and 1.9 rpg. Before that, Djugum played for Pet Bunara and Vostarnica. He also has experience from Borik and Zadar. Ante Djugum played for the Croatian U20, U18 and U16 NT in the past.

Robert Troha heads to Greece, Peristeri - by Eurobasket News
Robert Troha (194-G/F-77, agency: Court Side) will continue his career in Greece. The Croatian shooting guard/small forward signed a one-year deal with DASH Peristeri GS Athens. It will be his first adventure out of Croatia and Slovenia, where he played so far. Troha spent last season with Cedevita Zagreb. He played 25 games in Adriatic league registering 5 ppg, 2 rpg and 1.2 spg. Troha also added 5.1 ppg and 1.6 rpg for 18 EuroCup games helping Cedevita to reach the Semifinals. In Croatian league, Troha averaged 2.9 points. There Cedevita reached Playoff Finals, but failed to win the title. From 2008 until the last summer Robert Troha played for Cibona. They won two Croatian league titles and one Cup trophy together. Before Cibona, Troha spent two years with Helios Domzale and two with Pivovarna Lasko. He also has experience from Hermes Analitica and Zrinjevac.

*****************************************************
  CYPRUS   


Switzerland overcame Cyprus in Fribourg - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland-Cyprus 71:43

Switzerland overcame Cyprus in Fribourg at the European Championship in Division B. The Swiss side had a comfortable 71:43 win for 2-2 record in Group C. Cyprus meanwhile dropped to 0-4 record on the bottom of the group.
Cyprus actually started better and Panagiotis Trisokkas (206-C-80) brought 8:2. The home side needed an 8-0 run to close the first period at 10:8. Buscaglia later brought 16:10 and Greg Brunner (201-C/F-83, college: Iowa) delivered two for 23:14. David Ramseier (198-C-87) sent the teams to the lockers for 27:18. Pittakas and Louissaint exchanged the baskets early in the third, while Mladjan made two free throws for 39:26. Cyprus railed 12 points at the end of the third period, but failed at the last stanza. Switzerland needed 25-9 in it for the final result.
David Ramseier paced all the winners with 12 points, while Derek Stockalper (198-G/F-84, college: Cal Poly - SLO) netted 10. Greg Brunner followed his teammates with 9 points. Panagiotis Trisokkas finished the game with 14 points and Vassilis Kounas (195-G-84) scored 7.

Switzerland: David Ramseier 12, Derek Stockalper 10, Greg Brunner 9
Cyprus: Panagiotis Trisokkas 14, Vassilis Kounas 7


Another signing for Pizza Express Apollon - by Michael Aristidou

Pizza Express Primetel Apollon announces the agreement for next season with American guard Erik Rush (195-G). The player was in Montana St. (NCAA) the past years. Last year the player had 15,1ppg and 4,1rpg. Erik Rush is the second transfer for the team this season after Jordan Collins (208-F-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.).
Pizza Express Primetel Apollon looks now for some more players to finish their squad for next season. Some inside information want the team to be closed to another player.


*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Nymburk tab Drew Naymick - by Eurobasket News
Nymburk bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Drew Naymick (211-C-85, agency: Warren Sports International). The deal is meant for one season. Drew Naymick spent last pre-season with the Los Angeles Lakers. He moved then to the Bakersfield Jam. The centre averaged 8.6 points, 7.6 boards, 2.2 blocks per D-League game. Previously Drew Naymick had spells for Caceres 2016 and Kotwica Kolobrzeg. Eurobasket.com named the centre All-Polish League Centre of the Year in 2009. Drew Naymick is the Michigan State University graduate. The centre played at NCAA Tournament Final Four in 2005.


*****************************************************
  D-LEAGUE   


Red Claws name Gene Cross Assistant Coach - by Eurobasket News
The Maine Red Claws, presented by Quirk Chevrolet, today announced that Gene Cross has been named the team's assistant coach under Head Coach Dave Leitao. Cross, who was an assistant coach for the NBA Development League Utah Flash last season, reunites with Leitao after serving as his assistant coach at both the University of Virginia and DePaul University.

'I am excited to have Gene Cross on staff,' said Red Claws President and General Manager Jon Jennings. 'He has a tremendous coaching resume in both the college and pro ranks, and his familiarity with both the league and with Coach Leitao gives the Red Claws a tremendous coaching staff.'

Cross, 39, joins the Red Claws after a year as the assistant coach for the Utah Flash. Prior to joining the pro coaching ranks, Cross had a long and productive career coaching in college, having coached at the University of Illinois-Chicago, DePaul University, University of Virginia, Notre Dame, and the University of Toledo. Cross was an assistant under Red Claws Head Coach Dave Leitao for five seasons at Virginia and DePaul.

A native of Chicago, Cross earned a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Illinois in 1994 where he played for the Fighting Illini as a walk-on; Illinois participated in the NCAA Tournament twice during his playing career. He received a master's degree in sport management from Ohio State University in 1996, beginning his coaching career as varsity basketball coach at Marion-Franklin (OH) High School. He joined the coaching staff at the University of Illinois-Chicago in 1996, spending three seasons as the assistant coach for the DePaul Blue Demons under Dave Leitao. Following the 2004-05 season, Cross followed Leitao to the University of Virginia as Leitao's top assistant. Following two seasons at Virginia, Cross moved to Notre Dame to become the assistant coach for two seasons under 2007 and 2008 Big East Coach of the Year, Mike Brey. He served as head coach at the University of Toledo for two seasons before making the jump to the pro ranks as the Flash's assistant coach last year. In addition to his coaching experience, Cross is a member of the Black Coaches Association.

'Having worked with Gene in the past, he brings familiarity to me and knowledge of the NBA D-League which are two qualities I thought very important in an assistant,' said Red Claws Head Coach Dave Leitao. 'Gene is exceptionally organized and possesses a terrific basketball mind. I look forward to rejoining him and working together to bring the Red Claws to unprecedented heights.'

The Red Claws will get their first look at potential players for the 2011-12 Red Claws squad on September 10 when the team holds open tryouts at the University of Massachusetts - Boston. The 2011-12 season will get underway in late November, with the Red Claws playing 24 home games at the Portland Expo during their third NBA Development League season.

'All of the pieces are falling into place, and we are looking forward to hitting the court this season,' Jennings said. 'Coach Cross gives us the final piece we needed on the basketball operations front, and we are excited to get our third season under way.'

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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


26th Afrobasket: Cote DIvoire loses crunchy tie to Egypt - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Cote dIvoire hope of making it two-on-two was dashed by Egypt in a group-C tie of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men after taking a 19-13 points lead in the first quarter.

The Ivorians bow to the superior fire power of the Ibrahim El-Gammal in the second quarter losing by 16-27 points for a half-time deficit of 35-40 points.

Cote dIvoire tried to come into the game at the resumption of play in third quarter yielded a 17-14 points win taking a two points deficit going into the last quarter but gave up when it matter most losing the fourth and decisive quarter by 23-28 points for a final score-line of 75-82 points.

Gammal led the floor with 21 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists, Mohamed El-Kerdany had 11 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists with Amr El-Gendy adding up 11 points, 2 rebounds and 2 steal to restore the hope of the five-time champion after losing its group-C opener to Cameroon on Wednesday.


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


Besiktas announce David Hawkins - by Eurobasket News
Besiktas have announced the signing of David Hawkins (194-G-82, college: Temple). The sides have agreed on terms of one-year contract. David Hawkins spent the last season with Armani Jeans. The guard notched 13.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.6 steals per game in Euroleague. In Seria A David Hawkins posted 13.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.3 steals per game. The guard earned Eurobasket.com All-Italian Seria A Honourable Mention for the fourth straight season. Previously David Hawkins had stints with Montepaschi, Lottomatica and Rieti. Eurobasket.com named David Hawkins All-Italian SeriaA Guard of the Year back in 2006. The guard also made it into Italian SeriaA All-Defensive Team twice. David Jackson was SeriaA champion as well as Cup and Supercup winner.


Cedevita lands Matjaz Smodis - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Cedevita officially announced signing of Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79) for the next season. Smodis spent last five years with CSKA Moscow. In the latest one he had 7.6 ppg and 2.9 rpg in 34 Russian league games. In Euroleague, Smodis added 6.8 ppg and 2.7 rpg for 10 games. CSKA also competed in VTB United league, where the Slovenian PF registered 9.8 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 10 games. Matjaz Smodis missed the entire 2009/10 season due to injury. Before CSKA Moscow, he played for Climamio Bologna, Kinder and Krka Novo Mesto. Smodis is active member of the Slovenian National Team since 1998. In 2008, Matjaz Smodis was named Eurobasket.com All-Russian A Superleague Forward of the Year. He won many titles and personal awards so far in his career.

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


Nymburk tab Drew Naymick - by Eurobasket News
Nymburk bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Drew Naymick (211-C-85, agency: Warren Sports International). The deal is meant for one season. Drew Naymick spent last pre-season with the Los Angeles Lakers. He moved then to the Bakersfield Jam. The centre averaged 8.6 points, 7.6 boards, 2.2 blocks per D-League game. Previously Drew Naymick had spells for Caceres 2016 and Kotwica Kolobrzeg. Eurobasket.com named the centre All-Polish League Centre of the Year in 2009. Drew Naymick is the Michigan State University graduate. The centre played at NCAA Tournament Final Four in 2005.


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


Portugal and Finland will play at EuroBasket 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Portugal and Finland will play at EuroBasket 2011 in Lithuania. It became known after another loss of the Hungarian side.
Last night Portugal Hungary in Szolnok 66:57 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 had 10 points in defeat.
Before that Finland celebrated the second straight win at the start of Additional Qualifying Round and as it became clear it was enough for them already to clinch the place at Eurobasket 2011. This time Finland toppled visiting Portugal. Tuukka Kotti (205-F/C-81, college: Providence) and Shawn Huff (198-G/F-84, college: Valparaiso) scored 16 points each to pace the winners.
The Additional Qualifying Round will last until August 24th. On the last day Portugal will host Finland, while on August 21st Finland will face Hungary.


Standings Div.B (Men)
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Holland4-0
2. Austria2-2
3. Estonia2-2
4. Luxembourg.0-4
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. Switzerlan.2-2
3. Slovakia2-2
4. Cyprus0-4


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


EUROBASKET: Dettmann and Mottola still going strong - by Rauno Hurmalainen
'This is a BIG thing for Finnish basketball', says Finland NT Head Coach Henrik Dettmann , 53.
'We want to win this Additional Qualifying Round', says ex-NBA-player Hanno Mottola (209-F/C-76, college: Utah), 34.
Yes. Finland is back in top 24 in Europe and will participate European Championship Games in Lithuania 31.8.-18.9.2011. Last time Finland was among the best in Europe in the year 1995, when top 14 teams were playing in June-July in Athens, Greece. Yugoslavia beat then Lithuania in the final 96-90 and Finland was finally # 14. Both Dettmann and Mottola were already then part of Finnish NT roster. All the others are newcomers now. Even PG Teemu Rannikko (189-G-80), who has belonged 14 years into NT roster. Finland and Portugal are clear and have the right to join the other 22 countries in Lithuania, but which one will start the games in Group A (Spain, Turkey, Lithuania, Poland, United Kingdom) and which one in Group C (Greece, Bosnia&Herzegovina, Croatia, FYR Macedonia, Montenegro)?
The winner of this additional qualifying round will start in Group C and # 2 Team will join last time European Champion Spain and a few other tough basketball countries. Finland has still two important games left. This Sunday (21.8.) Finland will host vs Hungary and next Wednesday (24.8.) Coimbra and Portugal is calling the Finns. Finland wants to win this round and stay undefeated. There are even two great players, who have been on injured list and have not played yet, but both Mottola and sharpshooter Samuel Haanpaa (203-G/F-86) are ready now. The sun is shining in Finnish basketball. The same way Finnish people have enjoyed the warmest summer (2011) in 23 years!



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


Tariq Kirksay pens deal with Montegranaro - by Eurobasket News
Montegranaro officially announced signing of Tariq Kirksay (199-F-79, college: Iona) for the next season. The American forward with French passport heads to Italy from Cajasol Seville, where he spent last two years. Kirksay had 7.7 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 1.9 apg and 1.9 spg for 32 games in ACB last season. He also added 10.3 ppg, 5.9 rpg, 1.8 apg and 2.3 spg for 16 games in EuroCup. He finished as No.1 in steals in this competition. Cajasol reached EuroCup Finals and Kirksay was named Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup 1st Team -11. Tariq Kirksay played for Cajasol in 2009/10. Before that, he spent two years with Unics Kazan. With them Kirksay won the Russian Cup in 2009. He also has experience from Nancy, Bourg and Besancon. Kirksay played for the French National Team in 2007 and 2008.

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


Anthony King Returns To The Beko BBL Joining The Artland Dragons - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
After establishing himself as one of the top big men in Cyprus the last two years, ex Skyliner Anthony King (206-F/C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Miami, FL) will return back to the Beko BBl after having started his professional basketball career there with the Deutsche Bank Skyliners and is looking to make the next step with the Artland Dragons. King is a 26 year old 206cm power forward/center from Durham, North Carolina that got a one year deal with 2008 Beko BBL cup winner Artland Dragons. King played last season for Etha Engomis (Cyprus-Division A, starting five): Cypriot League: EuroChallenge: 8 games: 17.0ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.1apg, Blocks-1 (2.0bpg), FGP: 53.6%, FT: 76.2%; Cyprus League: 16 games: 14.3ppg, Reb-2 (10.0rpg), 1.1apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-2 (1.8bpg), FGP: 54.1%, 3PT-3 (50.0%), FT: 76.8%; Playoffs: 10 games: 14.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.4%, FT:80%, after winning the championship moved in Apr.'11 to Aris Thessaloniki (Greece-A1, starting five): 9 games: 8.1ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 50.8%, FT: 57.9%. 'It was important for us to get players from successful teams. Anthony led his team in Cyprus to the title and then went to Greece and had some very amazing stats against Euroleague teams. His strength is his rebounding and his shot from the middle distance', commented Artland Dragons head coach Stefan Koch


King started his basketball career in 2003 for Miami, FL (NCAA) and played there until 2008. In his senior year, he played 34 games: 7.1ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 43.1%, FT: 68.9%. In the summer of 2008, he played at the well known Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft): 3 games: 5.0ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.7bpg. In 2008, he turned professional and played for the : Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany-1.Bundesliga): EuroChallenge: 9 games: 4.3ppg, 3.4rpg; German League: 31 games: 3.2ppg, 2.8rpg. Already as a rookie, one could see the potential that King had as who could forget his fantastic 16 point 11 rebound performance against ex NBA player Alexander Johnson and the Brose Baskets Bamberg. 'Frankfurt was his rookie season and he has improved since then. One has to judge his success from the Eurochallenge games and the Eurochallenge', stressed Stefan Koch. In 2009-2010, King played for InterCollege Etha Engomis (Cyprus-Division A, starting five): Score-5 (236 pts), Reb-1 (148 rbs), Blocks-2 (24 blocks). Awards/Achievementsin his basketball career have been ACC All-Defensive Team -05, NIT Elite Eight -06, German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -09,Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League Co-Forward of the Year -10, Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League 1st Team -10, 11, Eurobasket.com Cyprus League All-Imports Team -10, 11, Eurobasket.com Cyprus League All-Defensive Team -10, 11, Cyprus League Semifinals -10, Cyprus Cup Winner -11, Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League Player of the Year -11, Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League Center of the Year -11,Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League Import Player of the Year -11, Cyprus League Champion -11, and Greek League Semifinals -11

Source: Artland Dragons

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  GREECE   


Latest Transfer News - by Chris Mammides
Ikaros Kallitheas agree financial terms with the experienced American guard Michael King (193-G-78, college: George Washington) who played last season with the jersey of DASH Peristeri GS Athens. Mike knows very well the Greek Basketball reality and that is the main reason why he has been picked up by head Coach Aris Likogiannis (agency: FCM ). Mike's fifth team in the Greek league is a fact and he is making him among the few American players to play in so many Greek teams.

Enosi Kalathosfairisis Kavalas agree financial terms with the following players for the coming season: Ioannis Karathanasis (200-F-91), Muhamed Pasalic (192-G-87) and Nikola Jovanovic (203-C/F-81)

Mihalis Kakiouzis (206-C-76) is officially the 4th Greek player to wear the jersey of Bizkaia Bilbao Basket as he agree financial terms on a monthly basis with the the Spanish team.

Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) agree to continue his career for one more season in the European champions, team of Panathinaikos Athens.





Kavala signs Nikola Jovanovic - by Eurobasket News
Kavala announced signing of Nikola Jovanovic (203-C/F-81, agency: BeoExcell) for 2011/12. The Serbian power forward spent last two seasons with Anwil Wloclawek. In the latest one he had 13.6 ppg, 4.6 rpgm 1.8 apg and 1.4 spg for 25 games in PLK. He participated at the Polish League All-Star Game and was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Honorable Mention. Jovanovic was also awarded with Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Bosmans Team. In EuroCup last season Nikola Jovanovic registered 13.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 1.7 apg. He also had great 2009/10 season with Anwil. Before Anwil, Nikola Jovanovic played for Atlas Stal Ostrow also in Poland. He had 15.5 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 1.7 apf in 34 games with them. Jovanovic also has experience from Swisslions Takovo, Etha, Ergonom and Masinac.

Muhamed Pasalic joins Kavala - by Eurobasket News
Kavala added another Bosman for the next season. After Nikola Jovanovic (203-C/F-81, agency: BeoExcell), the Greek outfit penned a deal with Bosnian Muhamed Pasalic (192-G-87, agency: Interperformances). The 23-year-old guard heads to Greece from Bosna ASA BHT. He had 13.3 ppg, 2.2 rpg, 4.7 apg and 1.2 spg for them in 28 Bosnian league games last season. Eurobasket awarded Pasalic with Bosnia and Herzegovina League All-Domestic Players Team -11. Pasalic joined Bosna ASA BHT in 2007 from Vogosca MIMS. He won the Bosnian league title with Bosna ASA BHT in 2007 and 2008. They also celebrated in Bosnian Cup in 2009 and 2010. Muhamed Pasalic is active member of the Bosnian National Team. In the past, he played for U18 Bosnia.

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  HOLLAND   


Netherlands outclass Luxembourg to remain undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands-Luxembourg 96:54

Netherlands outclass Luxembourg to remain undefeated in Group A of the European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side had a comfortable win over Luxembourg 96:54 on Thursday night.
The hosts could not take the decent lead in the star of the game as Luxembourg struggled a lot in the first frame. Ferreira gave his side 14:12 and Jones drove a lay-up for 21:20. That was however the last lead for the guests, as Holland took the control of the game. Gadzuric made it 25:21 and Slagter nailed three for 33:23. The hosts won the second period 25-10 and had 45:29 at the halftime. Another 20-19 in the third period brought 65:46 after three quarters when Kenneth van Kempen (208-C-87, agency: Court Side, college: Ohio) closed the frame. Netherlands added massive 31-6 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) paced all the winners with 22 points and 20 rebounds. Kenneth van Kempen and Stefan Wessels (203-F-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy) followed them with 9 points each. Tom Schumacher (190-G-87, college: Cal.Baptist) answered with 14 points in the losing effort and Martin Rajniak (204-F-78, college: CSU Bakersfield) notched 12.

Netherlands: Robin Smeulders 22+20 rebs, Kenneth van Kempen 9, Stefan Wessels 9
Luxembourg: Tom Schumacher 14, Martin Rajniak 12, Samy Picard (195-F-88) 10


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  HUNGARY   


PVSK Pannonpower Pecs lands Andrija Ciric and Nikola Vasojevic - by Eurobasket News
PVSK Pannonpower Pecs lands Andrija Ciric (199-G-80, agency: BeoExcell) and Nikola Vasojevic (195-G-86).
PVSK Pannonpower Pecs announced signing of Andrija Ciric and Nikola Vasojevic for the next season.
Andrija Ciric is back to Hungary after two years. He split last season between AEL Limassol and Keflavik. For 13 games in Icelandic league had had 17.4 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 1.5 apg. He helped Kefalvik to reach Express league Semifinals and was named Eurobasket.com Icelandic League All-Bosmans Team -11. Season 2009/10, Andrija Ciric spent in Poland with PBG Basket Poznan. In Hungary, he played two years for Falco KC-Szombathely. They won the title together in 2008. Ciric also has experience from Bosna ASA BHT, Prokom Trefl Sopot and Hemofarm.
Nikola Vasojevic heads to PVSK from Borac Cacak, where he had 15.2 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 2.9 apg last season. Before Borac, Vasojevic played for KG 06 Kragujevac and Timisoara.

Damian Hollis is coming back to Albacomp - by Tamas Deri
American all-around forward, Damian Hollis (203-F-88, college: George Washington) decided to come back to Hungary and play for Albacomp in the coming season. The management of Albacomp gave Damian an offer already after the Finals 2011 through our agency, but it took a long period of time for him to make his final decision. The former U19 NT member graduated on the University of George Washington in 2010 and had a great senior season averaging 13.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2apg. He signed his first professional deal with VOO Verviers-Pepinster in Belgium, but left the team during the pre-season. His agency found him the right opportunity, so Damian moved in October to Hungary and agreed with Albacomp. Damian - put up 12.5ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.0apg, 1.5spg in 35 games - and his teammate in Hungary, Tony Crocker were the two best rookies of the league and lead to team to the Finals of the Hungarian Cup and Championship. In both competitions they lost against Eurochallenge team Szolnok.



*****************************************************
  IBL   


Slam's Poole signs with German Team - by Eurobasket News
Center Blake Poole (6'5''-C, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: St.Martin's), who recently completed his first professional season with the Bellingham Slam, has signed a contract to play overseas with the club BG Dorsten in Germany.

Dorsten is located in northwestern Germany and the team competes in the country's second basketball division.

Poole arrived in Germany earlier this week and has already played in one exhibition game for his new team, a 87-64 loss to the D1/4sseldorf Giants. Poole will play an important role with his new team, which is in its first season in the Pro-B Bundesliga after being promoted from Germany's third division last season.

As one of the top rookies in the International Basketball League this season, Poole led Bellingham and was fourth in the league in rebounding with 10.9 boards per game and was tied for fifth on the team in scoring with 12.5 points per game.

Poole finished the 2011 season with eight double-doubles, including a 25 point, 14 rebound performance against the Edmonton Energy on May 20.

Poole joined the Slam after completing his collegiate career at Saint Martin's University in February, finishing fourth in scoring and first in rebounding as a senior in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference, with averages of 19.3 points and 11.6 rebounds per game. He was named the 2010-11 GNAC Player of the Year and also an NCAA Division-II All-American.

In addition to his team-leading scoring and rebounding numbers at Saint Martin's, Poole finished first on the Saints in field goal shooting (54.7 percent), steals (48), and blocks (20).

In high school, Poole was a standout at Sheldon High School in Eugene, Ore., where he led the Fighting Irish to third place in the 2007 Oregon 6A state tournament as a senior.

Poole is the fourth current Slam player to play professionally in Germany in recent years, joining Tyler Amaya, Derrick Webb and Ira Graham.

Dorsten's regular season begins in September and their league's playoffs run through April.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Stats Leaders
IBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Hopson, Chinooks 27.8
2 Lucas, Chinooks 27.5
3 Edwards, Soldiers 27.0
4 Menefee, Reign 26.0
5 Murray, Volcanoes 24.7
Rebounds Per Game
1 Uskoski, Volcanoes 12.5
2 Morris, Chinooks 12.2
3 Baptist, Soldiers 12.1
4 Poole, Slam 10.4
5 Adams, Hotshots 8.5
Assists Per Game
1 Hopson, Chinooks 9.1
2 Broadus, Energy 8.6
3 Mayben, Legends 7.3
4 Anderson, Slam 6.6
5 Williams, Volcanoes 6.4


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  ISRAEL   


Ron Lewis signs with Hapoel Holon - by Carmel Drori
Ex-Ironi Nahariya Ron Lewis is back in Israel.
The guard signed a contract with Hapoel Holon earlier today (Friday)and will join Patrick Sullivan, Bryant Dunston, and Tasmin Mitchell, thus completing Holon's roster for the upcoming season.
Lewis spent the previous season in Belgium, playing for Dexia Mons-Hainaut and averaging 15.7ppg and 4.2rpg in the EuroChallenge, while averaging 13.4ppg and 3.6rpg in the Belgian Division 1 competition.

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  ITALY   


Tariq Kirksay pens deal with Montegranaro - by Eurobasket News
Montegranaro officially announced signing of Tariq Kirksay (199-F-79, college: Iona) for the next season. The American forward with French passport heads to Italy from Cajasol Seville, where he spent last two years. Kirksay had 7.7 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 1.9 apg and 1.9 spg for 32 games in ACB last season. He also added 10.3 ppg, 5.9 rpg, 1.8 apg and 2.3 spg for 16 games in EuroCup. He finished as No.1 in steals in this competition. Cajasol reached EuroCup Finals and Kirksay was named Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup 1st Team -11. Tariq Kirksay played for Cajasol in 2009/10. Before that, he spent two years with Unics Kazan. With them Kirksay won the Russian Cup in 2009. He also has experience from Nancy, Bourg and Besancon. Kirksay played for the French National Team in 2007 and 2008.

Scafati basket add Ousmane Gueye - by Giulio Signorini
Scafati Basket announces for the upcoming legadue season the reaching of an agreement with Ousmane Gueye (188-G-82).
Gueye is a shooting guard born in Senegal but he is also an italian citizen. He had started his career in Scaligera Verona young team. Ha had spent the great part of his professional career in italian B Dilettanti and A Dilettanti with Riva del Garda, Ferentino. In the last four seasons he had played with Scaligera Basket verona in B dilettanti, A dilettanti and in the last season in legadue. In the last year in legadue he had averaged 6.0 ppg with 50% 3 FGP and 55.6 2 FGP in 15.6 mpg.

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  LITHUANIA   


Lithuania stun Spain in front of 15000 fans in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania-Spain 88:76

Lithuania stun Spain in front of 15000 fans in Kaunas in the second friendly game between two sides. The main favorites for Eurobasket 2011 Gold, had a great game in Zalgiris sport arena, while the hosts grabbed 88:76 win.
Lithuania took the lead from the very beginning as their spectators enjoyed the start of the game. The hosts had 17:10 lead and finished the first frame at 25:19. Lithuania erupted for 16-point lead after an 11-0 run midway through the second frame. The teams went to the lockers with the comfortable 50:33 lead for Lithuania. Spain however played better in the third quarter and after 25-15 reduced to 65:58 at the end of the third. Lithuania increased to 10 points with 5 minutes to go and added another few points for the victory.
Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 16 points for the winners and Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) netted 13. Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) posted 11, while Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-G-76, college: Maryland) added 9. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) answered with 18 points and 12 rebounds, whilst Marc Gasol (212-C-85, agency: Interperformances) notched 17. Rudy Fernandez (197-G-85) posted 10 and Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) chipped in 9.

Lithuania: Mantas Kalnietis 16, Simas Jasaitis 13, Jonas Valanciunas 11, Sarunas Jasikevicius 9, Marijonas Petravicius (208-F/C-79, college: S.Carolina) 8, Robertas Javtokas (211-C-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona) 8
Spain: Pau Gasol 18+12 rebs, Marc Gasol 17, Rudy Fernandez 10, Juan Carlos Navarro 9


Darius Pakamanis returns to Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Darius Pakamanis (192-G-81) is coming back to Lithuania. The 29-year-old guard has agreed on terms of contract with Juventus. Darius Pakamanis played for Melilla Baloncesto last season. He tallied 5.7 points and 1.6 rebounds per game in LEB Gold. Darius Pakamanis is not new to Juventus. He joined the team in November 2009. His stats read 13.4 points, 4.3 boards, 1.7 steals and 1.6 assists per game in LKL. In Baltic League Darius Pakamanis posted 9.3 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists per appearance. Darius Pakamanis played for Lithuanian University National Team. The guard was also on the roster of Lithuanian National Team back in 2006.


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  LUXEMBOURG   


Netherlands outclass Luxembourg to remain undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands-Luxembourg 96:54

Netherlands outclass Luxembourg to remain undefeated in Group A of the European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side had a comfortable win over Luxembourg 96:54 on Thursday night.
The hosts could not take the decent lead in the star of the game as Luxembourg struggled a lot in the first frame. Ferreira gave his side 14:12 and Jones drove a lay-up for 21:20. That was however the last lead for the guests, as Holland took the control of the game. Gadzuric made it 25:21 and Slagter nailed three for 33:23. The hosts won the second period 25-10 and had 45:29 at the halftime. Another 20-19 in the third period brought 65:46 after three quarters when Kenneth van Kempen (208-C-87, agency: Court Side, college: Ohio) closed the frame. Netherlands added massive 31-6 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) paced all the winners with 22 points and 20 rebounds. Kenneth van Kempen and Stefan Wessels (203-F-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy) followed them with 9 points each. Tom Schumacher (190-G-87, college: Cal.Baptist) answered with 14 points in the losing effort and Martin Rajniak (204-F-78, college: CSU Bakersfield) notched 12.

Netherlands: Robin Smeulders 22+20 rebs, Kenneth van Kempen 9, Stefan Wessels 9
Luxembourg: Tom Schumacher 14, Martin Rajniak 12, Samy Picard (195-F-88) 10


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  MALI   


26th Afrobasket: Madagascar fail home fans lose to Mali 63-74 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Not even the presence of over 5,000 fans could save Madagascar from suffering its second defeat in group-A of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men as it go down to a rejuvenated Mali by 63-74 points in Antananarivo.

After taking a 23-14 points first quarter advantage Madagascar failed to maintain the tempo thus allowing the Malian to fight back in the second quarter forcing Madagascar to make series of mistakes Madagascar eventually lost the second , third and fourth quarters by 07-13, 17-23 and 16-24 points respectively.

Mali play-maker and point guard Modibo Niakate led the floor with 20 points, 5 rebounds, 4 steals and gave 2 assists for his side hard earn win.

Mali reliable forward Mohamed Tangara had an excellent game posting a double double figure of 19 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists while 2006 FIBA Africa Championship for U18 Men most valuable player Waly Coulibaly added 11 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds and 2 steals to seal victory for their side who now have a 1-1 record.
Mohamed Tangara (208-F/C-84, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: Arizona)

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  MEXICO   


Fuerza Regia is ready to a season of redemption - by Carlos Chapa
With ten years of uninterrupted experience in the LNBP league, a growing fan base and a significant improvement in the level of its players, Fuerza Regia Monterrey is set to face its first friendly game against the reigning champs Toros Nuevo Laredo.

Chris Roberts, Gordo Castillo, Ty Thomas and Alvin Cruz are the newcomers that will carry the responsibility to give Fuerza Regia Monterrey its first title in their decade of existence, Jeremis Smith, Michael Strobbe, Andre Joseph Tyronzic, Osmand Stanley, Mike Mitchell, Alonso Izaguirre and Gabriel Giron will return to the team that finished with the best record last year, the Regios are only missing one Latin-American player to complete their group.

The coaching staff leaded by former NBA player Reginald Jordan and his assistant coach Larnelle Johnson will also return to the team, that begins its regular season schedule on Friday, September 2 against Halcones Rojos de Veracruz. For its home games, Fuerza Regia Monterrey created an alliance with UneteFan to give its patrons discounts in sports stores and other benefits.


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  MONTENEGRO   


Milos Borisov heads to Italy - by Eurobasket News
Milos Borisov (201-F-85) will continue his career in Italy. The Montenegrin small forward penned a one-year deal with Banca Tercas Teramo. It will be his first season abroad. Actually, it will be his first season ever out of Hemofarm Vrsac, where he started as a pro back in 2003 and never left them until now. Last season Borisov had 8.3 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 26 games in Adriatic league. He also added 8.4 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 12 games in EuroCup. In Serbian league, his numbers dropped to 3.7 ppg and 2.3 rpg. Milos Borisov won the Adriatic league title with Hemofarm in 2005. They also played in couple of Serbian league, Adriatic league and Serbian Cup Finals. Borisov is active member of the Montenegrin National Team. He had 5.4 ppg and 5.1 rpg for 8 games in Qualifications to European Championships 2011.

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  MOROCCO   


Senegal starts with victory in Antananarivo, beats Morocco 79-65 - by Eurobasket News
Morocco - Senegal 65-79
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. Maleye NDoye (203-F-80, college: Furman) led the floor with 23 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists, Mouhammad Faye (208-F-85, college: SMU) added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists with Malick Badiane (211-F/C-84) grabbing a double double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

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  NAIA   


Longtime Northwest Oklahoma State Coach Joins Oklahoma Christian Basketball Staff - by Arnault Desira
Longtime Northwestern Oklahoma State University mens basketball coach Bob Battisti is joining the staff at Oklahoma Christian University.

Battisti will work as an assistant coach under Oklahoma Christian head coach Dan Hays, who is on the verge of becoming the career wins leader among Oklahoma-based college coaches.

Battisti retired in July after 25 years at Northwestern, 21 of which coming as the head coach before serving the last four as the Alva universitys athletic director.

Battistis teams at Northwestern became known for their ferocious defensive style. From 1986 to 2007, Battisti posted a 374-265 record with the Rangers and Northwestern won six conference titles and finished in the NAIA Top 25 seven times. Battisti was named a conference coach of the year five times and was selected in 1994 as the NAIA National Coach of the Year by Basketball Times.

The Rangers made five NAIA tournament appearances under Battisti, reaching the national quarterfinals in 2007. During the 1992-93 season, Northwestern finished 29-2 and was ranked No. 2 nationally entering the NAIA tournament.

Before arriving at Northwestern, Battisti served as an assistant coach at Bethany Lutheran (Minn.) College for three seasons and as the head coach at Lakewood (Minn.) Community College for three seasons, where he posted a 35-31 record.

Battisti is a 1981 graduate of Minnesota State University-Mankato and earned his masters degree in education in 1985 from the University of Minnesota.

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  NBA   


Joventut lands NBA player Pooh Jeter - by Eurobasket News
Pooh Jeter (179-PG-83, college: Portland) is another player who moved from the NBA to Europe this summer. The American point guard penned a deal with FIATC Joventut Badalona. He spent last season with the Sacramento Kings. For 61 games in the NBA he averaged 4.2 points, 1.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists. Jeter already has nice experience from Europe, as well as from Spain. He started 2009/10 season with Unicaja Malaga averaging 7.7 points and 2 assists for 6 ACB league games. Later he moved to Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem. In 2008/09, Pooh Jeter was a member of Menroca. He shined with 16.3 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 3.1 apg and 1.7 spg for them in 32 games. Jeter also played for BC Kyiv in the past.

Leandrinho Barbosa signs in Brazil - by Eurobasket News
Leandrinho Barbosa (6'3''-PG-82) is back to Brazil. The 28-year-old point guard signed a deal with Flamengo, including NBA out option. Barbosa spent last season with Toronto Raptors. He shined with 13.3 ppg, 1.7 rpg and 2 apg for them in 58 games. He missed two weeks during the season because of injury. From 2003 until the last summer Leandrinho Barbosa played for the Phoenix Suns. His best season with them team was 2006/07. At that time Barbosa averaged impressive 18.1 points, 2.7 rebounds and 4 assists for 80 games. Later in the Playoffs he added 15.8 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 2.2 apg. In Brazil, Barbosa played for Bauru Basquete, Bauru/Tilibra and Palmeiras.

Report: Kobe Bryant hasn't signed in China yet - by Eurobasket News
There are a lot of reasons a report that said that Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) had signed with a Chinese professional team should be looked at with caution. First, because China has now passed a rule preventing NBA players from signing to play in China with an NBA out-out clause once the lockout is over.

Two, because it doesn't make a whole lot of sense right now. So with ESPN.com's report that Kobe has not in fact signed anywhere yet, it's pretty clear that everyone needs to pump the brakes on this one.

A source said, 'Kobe has not agreed with any team on anything. He is conducting due diligence and weighing various options.'

Kobe has a reported $1.5 million a month offer on the table from a Chinese team, which is a pretty hefty price. But nothing is moving towards a deal yet there. Kobe also has been in talks with Turkish team Besiktas, the club that signed Deron Williams. But the China option has always been a bit more intriguing for Bryant. Mainly because he's a rock star there as well as the fact that Nike has encouraged its clients to explore options there.

But again, no player -- at least star player -- is going to sign in China with the no opt-out rule. Kobe is certainly looking at the option but if China isn't going to allow NBA players to leave if the lockout is lifted, they might as well kiss the chance at Kobe goodbye. The dance though helps Kobe either way. His price tag is moving up with these reported Chinese offers and he still has options as to where he might go.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Chinese Basketball Association bans out-clauses in contracts with NBA players - by Eurobasket News
The Chinese Basketball Association has passed a rule prohibiting teams from signing NBA players to contracts that include out-clauses that would allow them to return to the U.S. once the lockout is over, according to reports out of China cited by HoopsHype and Pro Basketball Talk.

The new rule, which has been anticipated for several weeks, means Chinese teams cannot sign players under NBA contracts. The CBA has put together a list of 108 free agents who are eligible to be signed by Chinese teams, Pro Basketball Talk notes.

Kobe Bryant (198-G-78), Dwyane Wade (193-G-82, college: Marquette) and Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) are among the NBA stars who have been rumored to be considering a move to China, but all three are under contract with their current teams.

News of the new rule follows an earlier report that said Bryant will join Shanxi Zhongyu on November 1 if the lockout remains unsettled (editors' note: ESPN's Chris Broussard tweeted that Bryant has since denied that report). There has also been some buzz that theres a sentiment among Chinese teams that the league will not be able to enforce the rule and that teams will move forward in their efforts to sign NBA stars despite the new rule.

The reason for the rule change: The government-run CBA believes that bringing NBA stars aboard on a temporary basis will detract from the leagues growth. Teams, however, see revenue-generating opportunities in signing these players and believe that doing so would add to the stature of Chinese basketball.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Expensive insurance hamstrings NBA players' flexibility - by Eurobasket News
Olympic organizers are running test events this week at the arena where basketball games will be played at the 2012 London Games.

Six teams competed, including France - for whom NBAers Tony Parker, Boris Diaw and Joakim Noah played.

Chicago Bulls star Luol Deng played for Britain - Ben Gordon (6'2''-G-83, college: Connecticut), however, did not.

The Detroit Pistons guard will not play for the Brits at Eurobasket in Lithuania from Aug. 31 to Sept. 18 because the country could not come to terms with Gordon on reasonable insurance on his NBA contract.

In a normal year, through an agreement between the NBA and FIBA, insurance is provided at an affordable cost for national teams participating in summer events. But because of the lockout, NBA player contracts are suspended and the same insurance is not available.

Great Britain Basketball performance director Chris Spice said his organization presented Gordon with a plan that Gordon was not comfortable with.

'The way to get the premium down for us is to play around with the coverage. Put a deductible in there, so the premium becomes manageable for us,' Spice said. 'But that means players have to make a decision to whether they can afford to take the risk because it's not the same coverage.'

It has become expensive for national teams to insure NBA players for important 2012 Olympic qualifying tournaments this summer.

Spice said it would cost nearly $140,000 to insure Gordon, almost triple the cost of what it would be in a non-lockout year.

'We're an emerging (basketball) nation that has to manage our pennies as best we can,' Spice said. 'In our case, we know we're in the Olympics, and we're banking some of that money and putting it toward next year's program.'

Phoenix Suns center Marcin Gortat will not play for Poland in Eurobasket, but not because Poland was unwilling to spend money to insure his NBA contract. Poland and Gortat could not find a provider to cover it.

'We were saying 'Please give us a policy and we will buy it,' and they said, 'We can't,'' Gortat's agent, Guy Zucker, said. 'Marcin wanted to play. Marcin is very proud to represent his country. It's one more ugly side effect of this absurd lockout.'

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

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


Romanian Talent flows to NCAA - by Julius Johnson
With the easing of amateurism rules, NCAA schools are now able to sign players who were parts of professional teams, as long as the recruit didn't get paid over and above reasonable expenses.

Many young players in Romania participate with the professional teams, but most all remain amateurs.

The most recent Romanian success was Vlad Moldoveanu, who helped American University to a great season. Now Vlad has graduated and is playing pro ball in Italy.

Perhaps the next Romania star is Nicolae Foalea (6'4''-G/F-92), who played for the Romanian champions, Cluj Napoca.

Foalea also played for the Romanian U16 national team and was one of the top players.

We see Foalea as an athletic 2 guard who can play some time at the pg. His shooting is well above average, especially off the dribble.

The NCAA has already cleared Foalea, who looks to come to America for a scholarship for the 2011-12 season.

Any interested teams can feel free to contact editor@insidethegreenroom.com

.

Duke Leads Off China Trip With Win - by Eurobasket News
KUNSHAN, China -- The Duke Blue Devils began their overseas trip in style Wednesday night with a 77-64 victory over the Chinese Olympic Team in Kunshan. Freshman Austin Rivers (6'4''-G-92) led the Blue Devils with 18 points on 8-of-15 shooting, while junior forward Ryan Kelly tallied a double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds.

'I felt very comfortable from the start of the game,' said Rivers. 'We got off to a little bit of a slow start but in the second half we came out and played well. We are excited about the way we played especially in the second half and looking forward to getting out there to continue to develop.'

After playing to an 11-11 tie in the opening 10 minutes, Duke broke the game open with a 21-12 surge in the second quarter. Rivers and Andre Dawkins paced the offensive attack with 11 points combined and Miles Plumlee added two thunderous dunks in the closing minutes of the half to help the Blue Devils grasp momentum.

Duke came out of the half and started clicking on offense with Seth Curry (6'1''-G-90) knocking down a pair of threes to go along with a midrange jumper and Ryan Kelly finishing in traffic twice and getting to the foul line for two more points. The Blue Devils finished the quarter with 25 points to extend their lead to 57-43.

Rivers, Dawkins and Curry each knocked down three-point field goals in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter as Duke extended its lead to 20 points midway through the stanza. The Chinese Olympic Team battled back but could not get any closer than 12 points the rest of the way.

Duke's defensive effort was strong throughout the game holding the opposition to 20-of-61 shooting from the field while forcing 19 turnovers. The Chinese Olympic Team was able to stay in the game in large part to a huge discrepancy at the foul line, with China shooting 40 free throws to Duke's 15. Duke didn't shoot any free throws until the second quarter when Mason Plumlee (6'10''-F-90) was intentionally fouled on a breakaway to the basket.

Dawkins and Curry finished with 15 and 13 points respectively to give Duke four double-figure scorers. The backcourt tandem combined for seven three-point field goals with Dawkins draining a team-high four threes.

Duan Jiangpeng knocked down five three-point field goals to pace the Chinese team with 19 points, while Wang Zhelin added 18 points and eight rebounds.

Miles Plumlee, Duke's lone senior, recorded 10 rebounds before fouling out in the third quarter. Sophomore Josh Hairston added seven rebounds as Duke outrebounded its counterparts, 52-40, for the contest.

Rivers also paced the Blue Devils with five assists, while Dawkins and Tyler Thornton each had three steals on the night.

Duke will play the same Chinese team twice more, once Thursday night in Shanghai and then again on August 22 in Beijing. The remaining three games of the tour through China and Dubai will be shown live on ESPNU and ESPN3.com.
Courtesy of: goduke.com

Kelly, Plumlee Lead Duke to 78-66 Win Over China - by Eurobasket News
SHANGHAI, CHINA -- Ryan Kelly (6'10''-F-91) poured in 20 points, and all five Duke starters scored in double figures Thursday night as the Blue Devils pulled away from the Chinese Olympic Team 78-66, their second victory over the Chinese in as many nights.

We did a good job playing through adversity, Curry said. 'A lot of stuff wasnt going our way, but guys kept fighting and we ended up winning. So we had a good two days.

Seth Curry scored 15 points, Miles Plumlee (6'10''-F-88) had 14, and Andre Dawkins and Austin Rivers (6'4''-G-92) each added 12. Kelly made 9 of 11 shots from the field and added eight rebounds. Plumlee pulled down nine rebounds and had four steals.

[Kelly and Plumlee] are playing with a lot of confidence right now, especially Ryan knocking down shots and Miles down there battling and playing against real good big men, Dawkins said. [Plumlee] was ready to take on that challenge.

The Blue Devils used an 8-0 run spanning the end of the third and the start of the fourth quarters to break open a tight game. Currys floater just before the third-quarter buzzer began the run, and after back-to-back baskets from Kelly, Rivers followed his own miss to give the Blue Devils a 62-47 lead. Three-pointers from Kelly and Curry and baskets from Dawkins and Plumlee helped the Blue Devils maintain a comfortable lead the rest of the way.

[Tonights game] shows weve got that fight in us and weve just got to continue to grow and get better, Dawkins said.

Duke jumped out to an 8-0 lead, holding China scoreless for nearly four minutes to open the game. Although China closed to within two points on several occasions, Duke never gave up the lead. The Blue Devils led 15-10 after the first quarter, 36-30 at halftime, and 56-47 at the end of the third quarter. Duke shot 49% and tallied 16 steals for the game.

Duke opened the three-game series with a 77-64 win Wednesday night in Kunshan. The two teams will wrap up the series August 22 in Beijing before the Blue Devils travel west to Dubai. Dukes remaining two games of the foreign tour will be shown live on ESPNU and ESPN3.com
Courtesy of: goduke.com

Villanova's Armwood transfer - by Eurobasket News
Villanova forward Isaiah Armwood (6'7''-F) has decided to transfer.

Armwood would have been a junior this season for the Wildcats. He says he wants to find a program that better suits his style of play.

He played 60 career games for the Wildcats. Last season, he averaged 2.5 points, 3.6 rebounds and 17.4 minutes.

Coach Jay Wright says he supports the decision.

Courtesy of www.abc12.com

USC guard Jio Fontan out for season with knee injury - by Eurobasket News
Southern California guard Jio Fontan (6'0''-G-90) will miss the upcoming season after tearing a ligament in his left knee during the Trojans' exhibition tour in Brazil.

USC confirmed Fontan's injury on Thursday, two days after he landed awkwardly on the way to the basket during an exhibition against a Brazilian pro team. Fontan will undergo surgery soon.

The 6-foot Fontan was the Trojans' second-leading scorer and top playmaker as a junior last season, leading USC (19-15) to the NCAA tournament. He started 24 games despite sitting out the first semester after transferring from Fordham.

Trojans coach Kevin O'Neill says he's never felt worse for any player in his career, calling Fontan 'the heart and soul of our team.'

O'Neill expects touted freshman point guard Alexis Moore to replace Fontan.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Georgetown-China exhibition game ends in brawl - by Eurobasket News
A wild brawl broke out between Georgetown and a Chinese men's basketball team Thursday night, putting an immediate end to a supposed goodwill game that coincided with U.S. Vice President Joe Biden's visit to the country.

The benches cleared and fights erupted all over the court with about 9 minutes left in the fourth quarter. The rest of the exhibition between Georgetown and the Bayi Rockets was called off.

Biden did not attend the game. On Wednesday, he watched the Hoyas beat the Shanxi Zhongyu Brave Dragons 98-81.

The Washington Post reported Georgetown and Bayi players tackled and threw punches at each another. Chairs and water bottles were tossed as the Hoyas headed to the locker room with the score 64-all in a testy, foul-plagued matchup.

'Tonight, two great teams played a very competitive game that unfortunately ended after heated exchanges with both teams,' Georgetown coach John Thompson III said in a statement. 'We sincerely regret that this situation occurred.'

Georgetown and the Rockets are scheduled to play again Sunday night in Shanghai.

The melee was the latest instance of on-court fighting by China, whose players have been fined tens of thousands of dollars by the world and Asian federations for scrapping with opponents.

Georgetown is in China on a 10-day trip which has been cited by the U.S. State Department as an example of sports diplomacy that strengthens ties between the two countries. The Hoyas were briefed by the State Department ahead of their departure on what to expect during its trip to Beijing and Shanghai, according to news releases on the university's website.

'We remain grateful for the opportunity our student-athletes are having to engage in a sport they love here in China, while strengthening their understanding of a nation we respect and admire at Georgetown University,' Thompson III said.

In Washington, State Department spokesman Mark Toner called it an 'unfortunate' incident.

'We look to these types of exchanges to promote good sportsmanship and strengthen our people-to-people contact with China,' he said.

On Thursday, Biden met with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, who is expected to take over as Communist Party chief next year. After his China trip, Biden will go to Mongolia on Monday, then travel later in the day Japan.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Matthew Pilgrim signs with Pamukkale - by Eurobasket News
Gamateks Pamukkale Universitesi announced signing of Matthew Pilgrim (203-F-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Oklahoma St.) for the next season. It is the first professional deal for the American forward. Pilgrim graduated few months ago at the Oklahoma State University and he is ready for his first pro adventure. He had 5.4 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 1.3 spg in 34 games as a senior with Oklahoma State. In 2009/10, Pilgrim averaged 8.2 points and 6.7 rebounds. Matthew Pilgrim transferred to Oklahoma State in 2009 from Kentucky. He spent one year with Kentucky, but did not play. First two years Pilgrim spent with the University of Hampton. In his freshman year Pilgrim averaged 11 points and 5.3 rebounds.
Matthew Pilgrim was named Big 12 All-Newcomer Team -10. In 2007, he was awarded with MEAC All-Rookie Team -07.

Jamelle Horne gets pro deal in Poland - by Eurobasket News
Jamelle Horne (200-F) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American forward penned a one-year deal with Trefl Sopot. Horne graduated few months ago at the University of Arizona. He appeared 38 times for them as a senior averaging 6.1 points and 2.2 rebounds. Arizona had a great year as they reached NCAA Elite Eight. The school also was Pac-10 regular season champion and reach Pac-10 Tournament Finals. Jamelle Horne had pretty good numbers with Arizona as a junior. For 30 games that season he registered 9.4 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 1.2 apg. As a sophomore Horne had 6.8 ppg and 5.1 rpg for 35 games. Trefl Sopot will competed in Polish top division (PLK).

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


26th Afrobasket: Mozambique bow to Nigeria 63-78 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Mozambique was down by Nigeria in both sides second group-A game Friday at the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket. The Mozambican lost by 63-78 points to a more composed Nigerian side.

The Mozambican lost the first three quarters by 11-20, 21-23, 14-18 and drew levels in the last quarter by 17 points apiece.

Nigeria and San Antonio Spurs guard, Ime Udoka led the Coach Ayo Bakare tutored Nigerian side with a treble effort of 13 points, 11 assists, 10 rebounds and 2 steals to give DTigers as the Nigeria senior national team is known a clean slate.

DTigers and former Union Bank basketball club of Lagos forward Ejike Ugboaja added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 2 block-shots, shooting sensation Derrick Obasohan had 11 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists, Olumide Oyedeji contributed 10 points and 9 rebounds with Nigeria DStv Premier Basketball League reliable Abubakar Usman recording seventy-five percent from the three pointer scoring three of four attempt in the few minutes he stepped on court.


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


Real Club adds Clark to the roster - by Timothy
After playing with only one import for most of the season,Universidad de Lima / Real Club de Lima has finally added another piece to their championship contending team. C.J. Clark (201-G/F-86) is a wing player who is sure to help Real establish a more balanced attack offensively. With his length and athleticism,C.J iwill bring more rebounding,scoring as well as a defensive presence to the club. Clark is in his first professional season and will play in his debate game August 19th against San Augustin.

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  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. Yap, B-Meg Llam.22.2 
 7. Caguioa, Ginebra21.0 
 8. Bangura, Air21 E.21.0 
 9. Mercado, Meralco19.8 
 10. Porter, Powerade.19.4 
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. Mercado, Meralco6.3 
 3. Cabagnot, Petron6.3 
 4. Sloan, Ginebra Kin.5.5 
 5. Castro, Talk N Te.5.1 
 6. Cruz, Powerade T.5.0 
 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: 3
 1. Porter, Powerade.3.0 
 2. Grundy, Petron B.2.1 
 3. Bangura, Air21 E.2.0 
 4. Hontiveros, Air211.8 
 5. Tenorio, Alaska A.1.7 
 6. Yap, B-Meg Llam.1.7 
 7. Reynolds, Talk N.1.7 
 8. Lanete, Powerade.1.6 
 9. Reyes, Talk N Text1.5 
 10. Arboleda, Air21 E.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 


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


AZS Koszalin agreed terms with Polish Rafal Bigus - by Eurobasket News
AZS Koszalin agreed terms with Polish Rafal Bigus (215-C-76, college: Villanova) who is back to the country after a season in Romania.
In 2010-2011 he played for CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (Romania-Div.A, starting five) and in 33 games averaged10.3ppg, Reb-4 (9.3rpg), 1.0apg, FGP: 65.9%, FT: 53.5%. Before that 1976-year born player enjoyed the season with Energia Rovinari and Polonia 2011 Warszawa. Bigus appeared 15 times for them in PLK averaging 8.2 points and 7.1 rebounds. He started the season with ISS Sportino Inowroclaw, but they parted ways in November. For 9 games with Sportino, Bigus registered 6.3 ppg and 7.9 rpg.
Season 2008/2009, Rafal Bigus spent with PBG Basket Poznan. He helped his team with 7.2 ppg and 6.7 rpg for 26 games. From 2006 to 2008 he was a member of SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg. Bigus started 2005/06 season with Turow, but later moved to CEZ Basketball Nymburk. It was a great move as Nymburk won the Czech title that year. Bigus helped them with 6.5 ppg and 4 rpg in 24 games.
Rafal Bigus also has experience from Greece, as a member of Panellinios, MENT and Olimpia GE Larisa. He is a product of the Villanova University, where he graduated back in 1999.


Asseco Prokom signs Jerel Blassingame. - by Dawid Roguski
Asseco Prokom Gdynia signs they second contract before season 2011-2012. 30-year old Jerel Blassingame (177-G-81, college: UNLV) spent his last season with Energa Czarni Slupsk. He played in 33 games averaging 13.6 pts. 3.4 reb. 6.2 as. And 2.6 stl. He played vs. Asseco Prokom Gdynia seven times last season and played very well averaging 13,7 pts., 3.1 reb., 6.7 as and 2.6 stl. He helped Energa Czarni win bronze medal. Blassingame take the place of Daniel Ewing.

Jamelle Horne gets pro deal in Poland - by Eurobasket News
Jamelle Horne (200-F) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American forward penned a one-year deal with Trefl Sopot. Horne graduated few months ago at the University of Arizona. He appeared 38 times for them as a senior averaging 6.1 points and 2.2 rebounds. Arizona had a great year as they reached NCAA Elite Eight. The school also was Pac-10 regular season champion and reach Pac-10 Tournament Finals. Jamelle Horne had pretty good numbers with Arizona as a junior. For 30 games that season he registered 9.4 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 1.2 apg. As a sophomore Horne had 6.8 ppg and 5.1 rpg for 35 games. Trefl Sopot will competed in Polish top division (PLK).

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


BC Mures signs deal with Uros Mirkovic - by Eurobasket News
BC Mures announced signing of Uros Mirkovic (205-F/C-82, agency: BeoExcell) to a one-year deal. The Serbian big guy heads to Romania for the first time in his career. Mirkovic started last season with Crvena Zvezda. He had 6.2 ppg and 4.6 rpg for them in five Adriatic league games, after what he moved to Polpharma. There Mirkovic added 9.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 1 apg for 21 games in PLK. He helped Polpharma to win the Polish Cup this year. Uros Mirkovic played for the same club also in 2009/10. He had 8 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 33 games that season. Mirkovic spent several years with Masinac in the past. He also played for Vojvodina and Swisslion Takovo.

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


Krivosheev and Grigoryev remain with Lokomotiv Kuban - by Eurobasket News
Maxim Krivosheev (207-F/C-88) and Maxim Grigoryev (195-G-90) remain with Lokomotiv Kuban that recently started the preparation for the new season. Both Russian players will stay with the squad.
In 2006-2007 Maxim Grigoryev started for Lokomotiv-2 Rostov (Higher League). In 2008-2009 he played for Lokomotiv Rostov na Donu (A Superleague) and played also at Lokomotiv Rostov U23 (U23 League). In
2009-2010 debuted for Lokomotiv Kuban (A Superleague): 2 games: 4.5ppg, played also at Lokomotiv Kuban U23 (U23 Youth League, starting five). The last season he averaged 2.7ppg, 1.1rpg in EuroChallenge and in Russian League showed 4.4ppg, 1.3rpg.
Maxim Krivosheev started in 2005-2006 for NGU Novosybirsk (Higher League) and in 2006-2007 played for Sibirtelekom-Lokomotiv Novosybirsk (A Superleague, starting five). In 34 games he showed 6.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 2FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 16.0%, FT: 55.0%, played also for NGU Novosibyrsk (Higher League). In 2007-2008 for Sibirtelekom-Lokomotiv Novosybirsk (A Superleague) in 23 games his stats read 9.5ppg, 6.8rpg, 2FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 11.1%, FT: 64.5%.
In 2008-2009 moved to Lokomotiv Rostov na Donu (A Superleague) and in Russian League after 21 games had 5.5ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 17.6%, FT: 58.0%. In EuroChallenge after 11 games his stats read 5.3ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT-3 (50.0%), FT: 66.7%, played also at Lokomotiv Rostov U23 (U23 league, starting five). In 2009-2010 played for Lokomotiv Kuban (A Superleague) and in EuroChallenge showed 3.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.0spg, while in Russian League after 12 games averaged 2.9ppg, 2.7rpg.


*****************************************************
  RWANDA   


Rwanda fails against Central Africa - by Eurobasket News
Central Africa - Rwanda 89-61
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 (206-F-86, college: Clemson) led the floor with 24 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assist, Regis Koundjia-Sindo (203-F-83, college: George Washington) recorded 13 points and 5 rebounds while the duo of Lionel Bomayako (196-G-78, agency: Court Side, college: Fairleigh Dickinson) and Max Martial Kounguere added 12 points and 10 points 5 rebounds and 2 steals for their side victory. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

*****************************************************
  SCOTLAND   


Andrew Wedemire becomes Rocks 3rd major signing of 2011/12 - by Eurobasket News
The Glasgow Rocks have secured their 3rd major signing for the 2011/12 BBL season in the form of 66 Guard/Forward Andrew Wedemire (198-G/F). Canadian born Wedermire has been part of the Western Mustangs (University of Western Ontario) for the past 5 years and will be looking to make his professional debut with the Glasgow Rocks this season.

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

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

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

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

We are slowly getting to where we want to be for the start of the BBL season. Every signature is a step closer for us in establishing a team that can compete for Silverware this season. Wedemire brings with him a solid 66 frame as well as a certified inside/outside game. His agility on the court is sure to be an asset and we are hoping that his size will pose match-up problems for our opponents.

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

The Rocks will also be hosting a Pre-Season Camp + Meet the Team on the 18th September 2011. This will be backed up with a pre-season fixture against the visiting USA Select team, to be held on Monday 19th September at 7:40pm in Kelvin Hall. Tickets for these events are currently available at www.glasgowrocks.co.uk.
Courtesy of: www.glasgowrocks.co.uk

Rocks clog up the middle with signing of 69 DeAundre Cranston - by Eurobasket News
The Glasgow Rocks are proud to announce the signing of 69 big man Deaundre Cranston (206-F-88, college: Mississippi) to fill the void down in the post position.

Cranstons size, length and rebounding ability is set to be a great commodity for the Rocks in the frontcourt and his scoring ability in and around the basket will make him a hard man to contain. Coach Sterling Davis has great faith that DeAundre will be the big man that the Rocks need to keep other BBL big men quiet.

DeAundre is a guy we are hoping we havent seen here in a while, to really control the paint on both ends of the floor. He has always been known as an excellent rebounder throughout his career in the SEC which is one of the premier conferences within division 1. He is very springy for his size which will bode well within this league. Not only is DeAundre a good interior performer, he is also able to step out and knock down the 3 point shot if called to do so.

Cranston comes from a great University in the University of Mississippi, and made his professional debut in Uruguay playing for Montevideo Basketball Club last year, before sustaining a season ending injury. Cranston was averaging 17ppg and 11.5 rpg before his untimely injury cut his rookie professional season short.

DeAundre played in South America last season and got off to a great double-double average before an injury cut his time short there. He is coming in hungry with the want to prove he belongs at the professional level.

With the BBL Season just around the corner, the Rocks squad is slowly coming together, with a few more signings still on the way. The most important position left to fill will be the shooting guard position to aid veteran EJ Harrison in the backcourt.

The Glasgow Rocks begin their preparations for the new season in September. Rocks fans will get their first glimpse of the team on September 18th when the Rocks host their first Official Camp of the new season and also stage a Meet the team event straight after the camp. This will be closely followed by the Rocks Pre-Season fixture against the travelling USA Select basketball team on the 19th September, with the tip-off scheduled for 7:40pm.
Courtesy of: www.glasgowrocks.co.uk.



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


PVSK Pannonpower Pecs lands Andrija Ciric and Nikola Vasojevic - by Eurobasket News
PVSK Pannonpower Pecs lands Andrija Ciric (199-G-80, agency: BeoExcell) and Nikola Vasojevic (195-G-86).
PVSK Pannonpower Pecs announced signing of Andrija Ciric and Nikola Vasojevic for the next season.
Andrija Ciric is back to Hungary after two years. He split last season between AEL Limassol and Keflavik. For 13 games in Icelandic league had had 17.4 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 1.5 apg. He helped Kefalvik to reach Express league Semifinals and was named Eurobasket.com Icelandic League All-Bosmans Team -11. Season 2009/10, Andrija Ciric spent in Poland with PBG Basket Poznan. In Hungary, he played two years for Falco KC-Szombathely. They won the title together in 2008. Ciric also has experience from Bosna ASA BHT, Prokom Trefl Sopot and Hemofarm.
Nikola Vasojevic heads to PVSK from Borac Cacak, where he had 15.2 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 2.9 apg last season. Before Borac, Vasojevic played for KG 06 Kragujevac and Timisoara.

Kavala signs Nikola Jovanovic - by Eurobasket News
Kavala announced signing of Nikola Jovanovic (203-C/F-81, agency: BeoExcell) for 2011/12. The Serbian power forward spent last two seasons with Anwil Wloclawek. In the latest one he had 13.6 ppg, 4.6 rpgm 1.8 apg and 1.4 spg for 25 games in PLK. He participated at the Polish League All-Star Game and was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Honorable Mention. Jovanovic was also awarded with Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Bosmans Team. In EuroCup last season Nikola Jovanovic registered 13.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 1.7 apg. He also had great 2009/10 season with Anwil. Before Anwil, Nikola Jovanovic played for Atlas Stal Ostrow also in Poland. He had 15.5 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 1.7 apf in 34 games with them. Jovanovic also has experience from Swisslions Takovo, Etha, Ergonom and Masinac.

Radnicki Kragujevac lands American center David Simon - by Eurobasket News
Simon David (207-C-82, college: IPFW) is a new member of Radnicki Kragujevac. The American big guy penned a one-year deal with his new club. He arrives to Radnicki from the Korean team Anyang KGC. Simon appeared 42 times for them last season averaging 20.2 points, 8.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.6 blocks. He finished as the fourth best scorer and fifth rebounder of the competition. Eurobasket awarded Simon with Korean KBL All-Imports Team -11. From 2008 until the last summer Simon David played for Strasbourg IG. He had 17.8 ppg, 8.3 rpg and 1.6 bpg for 6 EuroChallenge games in their second season together. He also has experience from Dijon, Samara and Lukoil Akademiik. With Lukoil, Simon David won the Bulgarian title and Cup in 2006.

BC Mures signs deal with Uros Mirkovic - by Eurobasket News
BC Mures announced signing of Uros Mirkovic (205-F/C-82, agency: BeoExcell) to a one-year deal. The Serbian big guy heads to Romania for the first time in his career. Mirkovic started last season with Crvena Zvezda. He had 6.2 ppg and 4.6 rpg for them in five Adriatic league games, after what he moved to Polpharma. There Mirkovic added 9.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 1 apg for 21 games in PLK. He helped Polpharma to win the Polish Cup this year. Uros Mirkovic played for the same club also in 2009/10. He had 8 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 33 games that season. Mirkovic spent several years with Masinac in the past. He also played for Vojvodina and Swisslion Takovo.

Serbia nip Great Britain in London - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain - Serbia 95:97

Serbia came back from behind in the fourth quarter to pip Great Britain at London Invitational Tournament. The victory propelled Serbia to 2-1 record in the ladder. Great Britain suffered the third loss in a row. Nenad Krstic (214-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) scored 21 points to pace the winners.
Great Britain surged ahead in the opening quarter. They posted a 22:18 lead after ten minutes. The hosts maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. But Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) and Teodosic tied things up at 44 at halftime. The lead changed hands throughout the third quarter. But seven straight points from Eric Boateng (208-C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona St.) made it 73:69 for Great Britain at the final break. Serbia opened the fourth quarter on a 6:0 run to surge ahead. Nathan Reinking (188-G-73, college: Kent St.) and Michael Lenzly (189-G-81, college: Wofford) returned the advantage to Great Britain 95:93 late in regulation. But Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) and Teodosic answered with four consecutive points and sealed a tough win for Serbia. Dusko Savanovic posted 20 points, while Milan Macvan had 13 points and 8 rebounds in the winning effort. Eric Boateng responded with 15 points for Great Britain. Nathan Reinking and Michael Lenzly had 13 points each in the loss.

Great Britain: Eric Boateng 15, Nathan Reinking 13, Michael Lenzly 13
Serbia: Nenad Krstic 21, Dusko Savanovic 20, Milan Macvan 13

BBC Nyon signs deal with Srdjan Zivkovic - by Eurobasket News
Srdjan Zivkovic (200-G/F-86, agency: 011 Sports) is a new member of BBC Nyon. The Serbian guard/small forward signed a one-year deal with the Swiss outfit. Zivkovic arrives to Nyon from OKK Beograd, where he spent last season. He appeared 39 times in Serbian league averaging 10.6 points, 2 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1 steal. Zivkovic also added 10.5 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.5 apg for 10 Balkan league games. He helped OKK Beograd to reach the Quarterfinals in this competition. Before OKK Beograd, Srdjan Zivkovic was a member of Rilski Sportisti Samokov, but played just few games for them in 2009/10. Zivkovic also has experience from Masinac, Napredak Rubin, MZT Skopje and Ergonom. In the past, he played for the Serbian U18 and U16 National Team. Zivkovic played for Partizan youth teams.

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  SLOVENIA   


Geoplin Slovan signs four players - by Eurobasket News
Geoplin Slovan signed Nejc Buda (211-C-91, agency: Interperformances), Stefan Kosec (195-F/C-83), Luka Grum (194-F-92) and Ante Dugum (211-C-88, agency: Court Side) for the next season.
Nejc Buda heads to Slovan from Kraski Zidar Sezana. He had 13 ppg, 7.9 rpg and 1.1 apg for them in 19 games last season (1B). He played for Postojna and Union Olimpija in the past. Also Buda was a member of the Slovenian U20, U18 and U16 NT.
Stefan Kosec spent last season with Sencur averaging 16.7 points and 6.9 rebounds for 19 games in 1B. From 2006 to 2010, he was a member of Parklji.
Luka Grum is a former player of Triglav Kranj. He had 8.1 ppg and 3.4 rpg for them last season (1B).
Finally, Ante Dugum arrives from Austrian Kapfenberg, where he finished last season. He started it with the Bosnian team Brotnjo.

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  SPAIN   


Renan Leichtweis joins Palencia - by Eurobasket News
Palencia Baloncesto announced signing of Renan Leichtweis (207-C-89) for the next season. The Brazilian big guy already spent couple of years in Spain. He played for Adreilu Santurtzi last season. For 27 games in LEB Silver he averaged 10.5 points and 5.7 rebounds. Before that he played for Qalat Caja Sol Sevilla. Leichtweis was their member from 2008 to 2010. In their second season together Leichtweis averaged 12.1 points and 5.1 rebounds for 28 games in LEB Silver. In their first season he had much lower digits. Renan Leichtweis played for Ecija Cajasol in the past. He also was a member of the Brazilian U18 NT in 2005 and 2006.

Lithuania stun Spain in front of 15000 fans in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania-Spain 88:76

Lithuania stun Spain in front of 15000 fans in Kaunas in the second friendly game between two sides. The main favorites for Eurobasket 2011 Gold, had a great game in Zalgiris sport arena, while the hosts grabbed 88:76 win.
Lithuania took the lead from the very beginning as their spectators enjoyed the start of the game. The hosts had 17:10 lead and finished the first frame at 25:19. Lithuania erupted for 16-point lead after an 11-0 run midway through the second frame. The teams went to the lockers with the comfortable 50:33 lead for Lithuania. Spain however played better in the third quarter and after 25-15 reduced to 65:58 at the end of the third. Lithuania increased to 10 points with 5 minutes to go and added another few points for the victory.
Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 16 points for the winners and Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) netted 13. Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) posted 11, while Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-G-76, college: Maryland) added 9. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) answered with 18 points and 12 rebounds, whilst Marc Gasol (212-C-85, agency: Interperformances) notched 17. Rudy Fernandez (197-G-85) posted 10 and Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) chipped in 9.

Lithuania: Mantas Kalnietis 16, Simas Jasaitis 13, Jonas Valanciunas 11, Sarunas Jasikevicius 9, Marijonas Petravicius (208-F/C-79, college: S.Carolina) 8, Robertas Javtokas (211-C-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona) 8
Spain: Pau Gasol 18+12 rebs, Marc Gasol 17, Rudy Fernandez 10, Juan Carlos Navarro 9


Roberto Guerra remains with CB Granada - by Eurobasket News
Roberto Guerra (195-G/F-83) remains with CB Granada for 2011/2012 season. The 28-year-old guard/small forward will start his second season with the team.
Roberto Guerra arrived to the club from CAI Zaragoza. He had limited playing time in 2009/10 averaging just 1.4 points, 2 rebounds and 1.5 assists. In 2008/09, his numbers were slightly better. Before CAI Zaragoza, Guerra spent ten years with Gran Canaria. In their last season together (07/08) he had 8.9 ppg and 2.3 rpg in ULEB Cup, plus 6.9 ppg and 2.6 rpg in Spain. Roberto Guerra was a member of the Spanish B National Team in 2003.
In 2010-2011 for CB Granada (ACB, starting five) after 18 games he averaged 3.0ppg, 1.7rpg. In his top game he recorded 8 points at the Regular Season Round 29 when Granada beat Valladolid 67:62. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 10-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 67-62.


Bizkaia Bilbao add Askrabic and Kakiouzis - by Eurobasket News
Bizkaia Bilbao Basket add Ognjen Askrabic (207-C/F-79, agency: Interperformances) and Mihalis Kakiouzis (206-C-76) to their roster.
In 2008-2009 Ognjen Askrabic played for Triumph Lyubertsy (Russia-A Superleague) and in Russian League averaged 8.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP-1 (69.2%), 3PT-1 (53.8%), FT: 47.5%. In EuroChallenge after 15 games his stats read 10.3ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.7apg, FGP-1 (69.1%), 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 50.0%. The season 2009-2010 started at BC Donetsk (Ukraine-Superleague). In 2010-2011 appeared in Marousi BC (Greece-A1), left the team in the preseason due to financial problems.
Mihalis Kakiouzis played for Le Mans last season. The experienced Greek played last season for Aris Thessaloniki averaging 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds in 12 EuroCup games. Kakiouzis also appeared 25 times in Greek league adding 8.7 ppg and 5.7 rpg. In the past, Kakiouzis was a member of Efes Pilsen, Barcelona, Montepaschi Siena and AEK Athens. He helped Greek NT to win the Gold at the EuroBasket 2005 in Belgrade and Silver next year at the World Championship 2006 in Japan.


Joventut lands NBA player Pooh Jeter - by Eurobasket News
Pooh Jeter (179-PG-83, college: Portland) is another player who moved from the NBA to Europe this summer. The American point guard penned a deal with FIATC Joventut Badalona. He spent last season with the Sacramento Kings. For 61 games in the NBA he averaged 4.2 points, 1.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists. Jeter already has nice experience from Europe, as well as from Spain. He started 2009/10 season with Unicaja Malaga averaging 7.7 points and 2 assists for 6 ACB league games. Later he moved to Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem. In 2008/09, Pooh Jeter was a member of Menroca. He shined with 16.3 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 3.1 apg and 1.7 spg for them in 32 games. Jeter also played for BC Kyiv in the past.

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  SWEDEN   


Sodertalje Kings sign Alexander Lindqvist - by Eurobasket News
Alexander Lindqvist (202-F-91) will continue his career in Sodertalje. He penned a 1+1 year deal with the Kings. Lindqvist heads to Sodertalje from Solna Vikings, where he grew up. He appeared 38 times for them last season averaging 5.4 points and 3.1 rebounds. In 2009/10, Lindqvist had 4.7 ppg and 2.5 rpg in 40 games. He also played for Solna Branten BK that season in Basketettan. There he had 16 ppg, 7 rpg and 2.4 apg for 10 games. Alexander Lindqvist is a member of the Swedish NT and one of the greatest prospects in the country. This summer he had 9.6 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 1.9 apg for 8 games at the European Championships U20 in Bilbao. In 2010, Lindqvist helped U20 Sweden to win the Silver at the European Championships U20 Division B in Austria. They also won the promotion to Division A that year. He had 10.5 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 8 games. In 2009, Alexander Lindqvist won the Gold at the European Championships U18 Division B in Sarajevo.

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  SWITZERLAND   


Switzerland overcame Cyprus in Fribourg - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland-Cyprus 71:43

Switzerland overcame Cyprus in Fribourg at the European Championship in Division B. The Swiss side had a comfortable 71:43 win for 2-2 record in Group C. Cyprus meanwhile dropped to 0-4 record on the bottom of the group.
Cyprus actually started better and Panagiotis Trisokkas (206-C-80) brought 8:2. The home side needed an 8-0 run to close the first period at 10:8. Buscaglia later brought 16:10 and Greg Brunner (201-C/F-83, college: Iowa) delivered two for 23:14. David Ramseier (198-C-87) sent the teams to the lockers for 27:18. Pittakas and Louissaint exchanged the baskets early in the third, while Mladjan made two free throws for 39:26. Cyprus railed 12 points at the end of the third period, but failed at the last stanza. Switzerland needed 25-9 in it for the final result.
David Ramseier paced all the winners with 12 points, while Derek Stockalper (198-G/F-84, college: Cal Poly - SLO) netted 10. Greg Brunner followed his teammates with 9 points. Panagiotis Trisokkas finished the game with 14 points and Vassilis Kounas (195-G-84) scored 7.

Switzerland: David Ramseier 12, Derek Stockalper 10, Greg Brunner 9
Cyprus: Panagiotis Trisokkas 14, Vassilis Kounas 7


BBC Nyon signs deal with Srdjan Zivkovic - by Eurobasket News
Srdjan Zivkovic (200-G/F-86, agency: 011 Sports) is a new member of BBC Nyon. The Serbian guard/small forward signed a one-year deal with the Swiss outfit. Zivkovic arrives to Nyon from OKK Beograd, where he spent last season. He appeared 39 times in Serbian league averaging 10.6 points, 2 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1 steal. Zivkovic also added 10.5 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.5 apg for 10 Balkan league games. He helped OKK Beograd to reach the Quarterfinals in this competition. Before OKK Beograd, Srdjan Zivkovic was a member of Rilski Sportisti Samokov, but played just few games for them in 2009/10. Zivkovic also has experience from Masinac, Napredak Rubin, MZT Skopje and Ergonom. In the past, he played for the Serbian U18 and U16 National Team. Zivkovic played for Partizan youth teams.

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  TAIWAN   


Taiwan basketball notes - by Chris Wang
Chen Hsin-An (196-G/F-80) to sign with PY?
Chen Hsin-An, 31, reportedly will return to Taiwan and sign with Pure Youth after spending the last two years in China with Dongguan.

Chen has finished his two-year contract with Dongguan, where his playing time was limited due to injury and other reasons. According to the United Daily News, Dacin Tigers is also trying to sign Chen, but Chen has not reached a final decision on his future, saying that he wants to focus on the upcoming FIBA Asia Championship for Men right now.

Yang Chin-min signs with Jilin
The United Daily News reported that Taiwan Beer swingman Yang Chin-min has signed with Jilin of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) for a two-year contract worth 2.5 million Chinese Yuan (NT$11.31 million).

Yang was tested by Shanghai, which has signed Taiwanese center Tseng Wen-ting, in early July but decided to sign with Jilin, which offered better contract, the report said.

Yang's departure will be another devastating blow to Taiwan Beer, which has lost many players to Chinese teams, including Yang, Lin Chih-chieh (Zhejiang) and Wu Tai-hao (Zhejiang). Backup guard Wu Min-hsien and forward Doug Creighton also left. Creighton reportedly signed with Pure Youth, his former team.

Taiwan NT having trouble keeping players
Taiwan NT is having trouble keeping players on its roster before the team leaves for Shanghai and Hanzhou, China for a training tour, local media reported.

Yang Chin-min could sit out the FIBA Asia Championship for Men as his ill mother is scheduled for an operation.

Lee Hsueh-lin, who played last year in the CBA with Beijing, requested to leave the team temporarily to negotiate his contract with Beijing.

Point guard Chen Shih-nian was one of four players skipping the Thursday practice. Chen was in China to try out for a Chinese team and will join the team in Shanghai. Center Tseng Wen-ting was in hospital for a checkup of his hip injury.

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  TOGO   


Togo losses in their first game in Antananarivo - by Eurobasket News
Tunisia - Togo 103-56
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 Romdhane (198-F-89) led his team with 20 points 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and one block-shot, Mourad El Mabrouk (190-G-86) 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. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

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  TURKEY   


Besiktas announce David Hawkins - by Eurobasket News
Besiktas have announced the signing of David Hawkins (194-G-82, college: Temple). The sides have agreed on terms of one-year contract. David Hawkins spent the last season with Armani Jeans. The guard notched 13.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.6 steals per game in Euroleague. In Seria A David Hawkins posted 13.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.3 steals per game. The guard earned Eurobasket.com All-Italian Seria A Honourable Mention for the fourth straight season. Previously David Hawkins had stints with Montepaschi, Lottomatica and Rieti. Eurobasket.com named David Hawkins All-Italian SeriaA Guard of the Year back in 2006. The guard also made it into Italian SeriaA All-Defensive Team twice. David Jackson was SeriaA champion as well as Cup and Supercup winner.


Matthew Pilgrim signs with Pamukkale - by Eurobasket News
Gamateks Pamukkale Universitesi announced signing of Matthew Pilgrim (203-F-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Oklahoma St.) for the next season. It is the first professional deal for the American forward. Pilgrim graduated few months ago at the Oklahoma State University and he is ready for his first pro adventure. He had 5.4 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 1.3 spg in 34 games as a senior with Oklahoma State. In 2009/10, Pilgrim averaged 8.2 points and 6.7 rebounds. Matthew Pilgrim transferred to Oklahoma State in 2009 from Kentucky. He spent one year with Kentucky, but did not play. First two years Pilgrim spent with the University of Hampton. In his freshman year Pilgrim averaged 11 points and 5.3 rebounds.
Matthew Pilgrim was named Big 12 All-Newcomer Team -10. In 2007, he was awarded with MEAC All-Rookie Team -07.

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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Can Herring help Duncan discover Fountain of Youth? - by David Edole
by Jeff McDonald

Its got to be a strange thing to be Matt Herring today.

On the one hand, youve just landed a plum job as the strength and conditioning coach of the Spurs. On the other, there are no players around to strengthen or condition, and wont be until the NBAs labor morass mercifully ends.

At this point, we can only imagine what Herrings typical day at work might entail. We half envision him spending his afternoons leading Gregg Popovich in suicide sprints up The Hill behind the Spurs vacant practice facility.

Herring might not arrive in San Antonio with players to coach, but he does arrive with goals. One of them: He hopes to help Tim Duncan (208-C/F-76, college: Wake Forest) add years to the tail end of his career.

You can have a positive impact on a guy like Tim Duncan and helping him get three, four, five more years out of his career and end on his terms, Herring, formerly of the University of Florida, tells GatorZone.com.

If Herring can really help Duncan discover the Fountain of Youth, it would make him the Spurs most important addition since perhaps Duncan himself. At age 35, Duncan is clearly slowing down.

His decline has been gradual, and he remains one of the leagues most productive big men, but the decline has been sure. No longer the Spurs offensive centerpiece, Duncan last season saw career lows in minutes (28.4), points (13.4) and rebounds (8.9) per game.

Duncan was surprisingly durable last season, the likely result of the dip in minutes, missing only one game until the day he landed on Ekpe Udohs foot in a March 21 game against Golden State.

Duncan never fully recovered from that ankle sprain, and was still obviously limited in the Spurs first-round playoff ouster against Memphis. That injury was mostly bad luck, but Duncan still those chronically sore knees that support his 6-foot-11 frame arent getting any better as he bears down on 40.

It remains to be seen what the Spurs new Director of Athletic Performance can do to slow Duncans aging process. Herring comes with impeccable credentials, having participated in back-to-back national championships at Florida and a Final Four run at Oklahoma State. But hes no miracle worker.

Under the tutelage of Mike Brungardt, a 17-year Spurs strength and conditioning veteran, Duncan already kept himself in top shape. He tossed the truck tires in the summers and did the cardio and engaged in the sparring sessions with boxer Jesse James Leija, all in attempts to prolong his career.

Even with team-sanctioned activities outlawed this offseason, Duncan has been at it again this summer, recently spotted on a San Antonio high school track running wind sprints in the sweltering South Texas heat.

Nothing Duncan does, however, can stop the next birthday from coming. Herrings aim will be to try to mitigate the effects of those birthdays piling up.

When it comes to big men aging (somewhat) gracefully, the gold standard is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who at 38 was still devastating opponents with his sky hook to the tune of 23.4 points per game. The days of averaging 20 points are over for Duncan, if for no other reason that Popovich is determined to keep his minutes in check.

History says Duncan is still a few years from the retirement home.

Jabbar played until he was 41, Hakeem Olajuwon and Patrick Ewing until they were 39, Shaquille ONeal until he was 38, David Robinson until he was 37 albeit each with varying levels of success.

Duncan will never be the MVP Duncan again. But, with Herrings help, theres no reason he cant at least join the League of Late 30s Big Men. Thats the goal, anyway. With little else to do these days, Herring will have plenty of time to dream it.

After that, he can get started on adding years to Manu Ginobili.


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  UBA   


U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes inks Dominique Holmes - by UBA media

Dominique Holmes (6'7''-F-84, college: So.Poly State) has reportedly agreed on terms of contract with U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes. The American forward spent the previous season in the UBA. He averaged 19.9 points, 9.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game with the Atlanta Assault. He was named Usbasket All-UBA 2nd Team alsong with All-UBA Most Improved Player.

After a great season in the UBA Holmes signed with the Titanes de Miramar (Dominican Rep.). Holmes averaged a league high 28.9ppg and 9.0rpg.

Holmes was a standout for Southern Poly for the 2005-2006 season. He ranked 3rd in the SWC in scoring with an average of 18.4ppg. He was named 1st Team All-SWC and was voted NAIA 2nd Team All-American.


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  UKRAINE   


Budivelnyk announced Travon Bryant - by Eurobasket News
Budivelnyk announced Travon Bryant (206-F-83, college: Missouri) for the upcoming season. The American Forward heads from France.
In 2010-2011 he played for Elan Bearnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez (France-ProB, starting five), injured in Jan.'11 and in 21 games averaged 9.5ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 60.7%.
Before coming to France the American player was with Panionios Athens. Bryant appeared 23 times in domestic championship registering 9.7 ppg, 6.9 rpg and 1.1 apg. He ended this competition as the fifth best rebounder. Panionios finished regular season as No.8 with 12-14 record. They met Panathinaikos in the Playoff Quarterfinals and faced elimination (0-3).
Before Panionios, Travon Bryant spent one year with AEK Athens. Actually, he joined AEK in December 2008. In 24 games Bryant averaged 11.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists. That was not his first season in Greece as Bryant already played for Marousi, Iraklis and Peristeri. He also has experience from Germany in Italy. With Benetton Treviso he was the Italian SerieA Champion for season 2005/06. For the next season he joined Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt.
Travon Bryant is a product of Missouri University, where he graduated in 2004. In his senior season he Bryant had 10.6 ppg, 6.6 rpg and 1.7 apg in 30 games.


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


Serbia nip Great Britain in London - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain - Serbia 95:97

Serbia came back from behind in the fourth quarter to pip Great Britain at London Invitational Tournament. The victory propelled Serbia to 2-1 record in the ladder. Great Britain suffered the third loss in a row. Nenad Krstic (214-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) scored 21 points to pace the winners.
Great Britain surged ahead in the opening quarter. They posted a 22:18 lead after ten minutes. The hosts maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. But Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) and Teodosic tied things up at 44 at halftime. The lead changed hands throughout the third quarter. But seven straight points from Eric Boateng (208-C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona St.) made it 73:69 for Great Britain at the final break. Serbia opened the fourth quarter on a 6:0 run to surge ahead. Nathan Reinking (188-G-73, college: Kent St.) and Michael Lenzly (189-G-81, college: Wofford) returned the advantage to Great Britain 95:93 late in regulation. But Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) and Teodosic answered with four consecutive points and sealed a tough win for Serbia. Dusko Savanovic posted 20 points, while Milan Macvan had 13 points and 8 rebounds in the winning effort. Eric Boateng responded with 15 points for Great Britain. Nathan Reinking and Michael Lenzly had 13 points each in the loss.

Great Britain: Eric Boateng 15, Nathan Reinking 13, Michael Lenzly 13
Serbia: Nenad Krstic 21, Dusko Savanovic 20, Milan Macvan 13

Rocks Go Green - by Paul Nilsen
The Glasgow Rocks have added some extra height and experience to their backcourt with the recent acquisition of 6'4' guard, Mychal Green (193-G-83, college: Ohio). Green has spent the past two seasons playing in Germany's Pro-B where he represented both Licher Basket Baeren and RSV Eintracht Stahnsdorf. The Glasgow Rocks staff are hoping that he will be the perfect back court partner for EJ Harrison, who announced his return to the Rocks earlier this month.

Last Season Green averaged 17ppg, 4.8rpg, and 2.0spg for RSV Eintracht Stahnsdorf, as well as shooting an impressive 42.4% from the field, including 35.6% from beyond the three point line.

Rocks player/coach Sterling Davis thinks Green will provide some extra depth at both ends of the floor.

'Mychal is one of those players who are equally good on both ends of the floor. He shoots an excellent percentage from the 3 point line whilst also leading your team in steals. He is a natural scorer that can make something out of nothing and also a very intelligent player.'

Green has already had some notable basketball experience both in New Zealand and Germany. The practise and knowledge he has accumulated should give him a good platform to further his career in Glasgow.

'Mychal has got some very good experience professionally with teams within Europe and also New Zealand. With this experience within the professional ranks he gives us a very mature backcourt alongside EJ.'

General Manager of the Rocks, Daniel Bajwoluk, also voiced his enthusiasm regarding the Glasgow's side most recent acquisition.

'Green's basketball career suggests that he should be an additional calming influence to the Roster this season. He will be a vital component to our backcourt and I am hoping he will be a perfect fit with what we are trying to achieve this season.'




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Women News

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


2011 Universiade. USA hold off Australia to reach Final - by Eurobasket News
USA - Australia 79:67

USA will play at World University Games Final in Shenzhen. They will defend their title against Taiwan on Sunday. Australia will take on Sweden in consolation final.
USA surged ahead early in the encounter and posted a 20:17 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second period. USA registered a 31:27 halftime lead. The North American team posted a 53:46 lead heading into the fourth frame. USA went on a 9:0 run midway through the fourth term to boost the margin at 16 points. They never looked back afterwards and rallied to the victory at the end. Elena Delle Donne (6'5''-G/F-89) posted 22 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners. Skylar Diggins (5'9''-G-90) accounted for 17 points for the United States. Nicole Hunt (5'6''-G-88) answered with 18 points for Australia. Cayla Francis (6'4''-C-89) notched 15 points and 14 rebounds in the loss.

USA: Elena Delle Donne 22+11 boards, Skylar Diggins 17, Devereaux Peters 8, Chinenye Ogwumike 8
Australia: Nicole Hunt 18, Cayla Francis 15+14 boards


East Perth looking to end long wait against Hawks (WSBL Semi-Finals Week Two Preview) - by Eurobasket News
Australian Central East Perth Eagles will be trying to qualify for the women's State Basketball League Grand Final for the first time when the semi-finals continue this weekend.

The Eagles won game one of their best-of-three match-up against second seed Total Connections Perry Lakes Hawks 75-66 and have two chances to wrap up the series this weekend to advance to face either Southlands Boulevarde Willetton Tigers or Glasscraft Wanneroo Wolves in the title decider.

But to advance to the Grand Final, East Perth must beat the Hawks in game two on Saturday or game three, if required, on Sunday at the WA Basketball Centre, where Perry Lakes has lost just three of its 12 matches this season.

The Eagles will be hoping West Coast Waves forward Samantha Norwood can continue the form which saw her finish game one with 30 points and 17 rebounds and lead her side past the Hawks.

But Perry Lakes has missed the Grand Final just three times since 1997 and has the edge over East Perth in experience.

The Hawks will need the likes of Tanya Kelly (164-PG-81), Tegan Walker and Gabriella Clayton (173-G-90), who were all quiet in game one, to get back to their best to keep alive their hopes of winning their seventh championship.

In the other series, dual defending champions Willetton will have to overturn a 1-0 deficit to beat Wanneroo and advance to their sixth Grand Final in eight years.

But the Wolves proved with their 74-68 triumph in game one they'd be tough to beat at Willetton Basketball Stadium for game two on Friday and game three, if required, on Saturday.

Wanneroo guard Rebecca Mercer (175-G-86, college: Montana St.) continued her impressive form by leading her side to victory with 19 points in game one and the Tigers will need to find a way to limit her production to advance.

And Willetton will also need to be much better at its three-point shooting, after making just one of 20 long range attempts in game one, to advance.

The Wolves will advance to the Grand Final for the first time since 1997 if they can take one of their two opportunities to wrap up the series.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL



Bendigo Spirit re-sign centre Jasmine Finnigan - by Eurobasket News
The Bendigo Spirit has re-signed veteran forward Jasmine Finnigan (184-F-77) for the 2011/12 WNBL season.

Finnigan appeared in all 24 games last year for the Spirit, averaging 3.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per contest in her fourth season with the team.

The 184cm Perth native was thrust into the starting line-up at the start of the season and proved a valuable asset on the defensive end, routinely battling against some of the leagues top centres.

Head coach Bernie Harrower said Finnigans physical presence allowed the team to go toe-to-toe against the leagues best.

Jasmine really stepped up last year and showed that she could be physical and cause problems for frontcourts around the league, Harrower said.

Most of her work doesnt appear on the stat-sheet, but her contributions and willingness to do the dirty work inside cannot be overstated.

With the talent in this league, every team needs to have those players that arent going to back down against anyone and Jasmine has certainly proven that with us.

Finnigan joined the Spirit after spending the 2005/06 and 2006/07 WNBL seasons with Perth where she averaged 4.8 points and 4.1 rebounds. During the 2009/10 WNBL season with Bendigo, Finnigan averaged a career best 6.6 points and 5.5 rebounds.

After completing the 2010/11 campaign, Finnigan took time away from basketball, playing netball for local side Sandhurst.

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

*****************************************************
  BRAZIL - Women  


2011 Universiade. Russia won over Brazil at the Classification Round for 5-8 places - by Eurobasket News
Brazil-Russia 58:65

Russia won over Brazil at the Classification Round for 5-8 places at the World University Games. The European team had a strong third period to clinch 65:58 victory.
Russia opened the game with 8:7 after the first five minutes and increased to 16:14 after the first 10 minutes. Brazil took the lead in the second period and enjoyed 20:16 midway through the quarter. The board showed 24:23 at the halftime as it was the last time in front for the Latin American side. Russia erupted with 23-9 in the third quarter and took 46:33 entering the last period. Brazil did their best to recover but could produce only 25-19 in the final frame. It was enough only to cut the deficit to 7 points.
Maria Cherepanova (187-C-87) paced all the winners with 18 points, while Natalia Myasoedova (193-C-87) collected 14 points and 10 rebounds. Nadia Calhado (196-C-89) ended up with 15 points and 14 rebounds, while Leila Zabani (180-G/F-91) netted 14. Patricia Ribeiro (178-G/F-90) posted 13 and Tassia Carcavalli (179-F-92) added 9 points.

Brazil: Nadia Calhado 15+14 rebs, Leila Zabani 14, Patricia Ribeiro 13, Tassia Carcavalli 9
Russia: Maria Cherepanova 18, Natalia Myasoedova 14+10 rebs



*****************************************************
  CANADA - Women  


2011 Universiade. Kendel Ross leads Canada past Finland - by Eurobasket News
Canada - Finland 71:66

Canada will play for the fifth position at 2011 World University Games. They overcame Finland in the classification round game tonight. Kendel Ross (185-G/F-88, college: Dayton) posted 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Canada will take on Russia, while Finland will face Brazil on the final day of the competition.
Finland looked better in the opening quarter. They posted a 25:16 lead ten minutes into the encounter. But Canada gradually took over. The North American team surged ahead for a 42:35 halftime advantage. The teams went neck and neck throughout the third stanza. Finland eventually pulled ahead for a narrow 53:52 advantage into the fourth quarter. The European side still led by a single point midway through the fourth period. But Langlois fired five points in a row and later Kathleen Miyazaki (175-F-89) and Megan Pinske (176-G-88) sealed the victory for Canada. Folade Raincock-Ekunwe (188-F-91) dropped 10 points, while Julie Seabrooks (190-F-90) added 9 points in the winning effort. Hanna Vapamaa (180-F-90) answered with 19 points for Finland. Vilma Kesanen (172-G-88) and Krista Gross (183-G/F-90) finished with 12 points apiece in the loss.

Canada: Kendel Ross 17+11 boards, Folade Raincock-Ekunwe 10, Julie Seabrooks 9
Finland: Hanna Vapamaa 19, Vilma Kesanen 12, Krista Gross 12


*****************************************************
  CHINA - Women  


2011 Universiade. The hosts edged Japan in the Asian thriller for 9-12 places - by Eurobasket News
China-Japan 57:55

The hosts edged Japan in the Asian thriller for 9-12 places at the World University Games. China had a comfortable lead, but had to escape 57:55 win.
China opened the game with 9:5 and grabbed 15:12 after the first 10 minutes in the court. After another 16-12 in the second period the hosts led 31:24 leaving for the break. The board showed 37:30 after 25 minutes in the game and then after another surge China took 49:38 at the end of thirty minutes. Nothing had changed in the first five minutes of the last period when China enjoyed 53:40 with 5 minutes to go. Japan however did not give up and surged back to reduce to 57:55. They could not however win the game.
Wang Miqi (185-F-89) top-scored for the winners with 25 points, while Guo Xiaochen (183-F-92) collected 11 points and 12 caroms. Shao Ting (183-F-89) followed them with 9 points and 11 boards. Mio Shinozaki (166-PG-91) ended up with 18 points in the losing case, while Azusa Sato (167-G-89) added 13. Kayoko Amano (180-C-89) and Mika Kurihara (178-F-89) nailed 10 points apiece in a loss.

China: Wang Miqi 25, Guo Xiaochen 11+12 rebs, Shao Ting 9+11 rebs
Japan: Mio Shinozaki 18, Azusa Sato 13, Kayoko Amano 10, Mika Kurihara 10


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


2011 Universiade. Czech Republic overcame Lithuania at the Classification 9-12 Places - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania-Czech Republic 59:82

Czech Republic overcame Lithuania at the Women's Classification 9-12 Places in China. The Czechs needed 82:59 win and will face China for the 9th spot. Lithuania meanwhile will take on Japan at the last game.
Czech Republic looked better in the whole game and started with 25:10. They continued their dominance in the second frame and reached 41:22 at the halftime. Lithuania reduced to 18 points midway through the third frame and trailed 27:49, while the board remained the difference after thirty minutes at 58:40. Czech Republic enjoyed 70:49 with 5 minutes to go and reached 23-point victory at the end.
Tereza Peckova (190-F-87) stepped up with 27 points for the winners and Lenka Sipova (185-C-88) as well as Kamila Stepanova (192-C-88) posted 12 apiece. Klara Pochobradska (187-C-89) ended up with 9 points at the World University Games Day 5. Lina Aglinskaite (182-F-87) answered with 12 points in the losing case, while Laima Rickeviciute (188-F-88) and Sarune Povilionyte (182-F-88) delivered 9 each.

Lithuania: Lina Aglinskaite 12, Laima Rickeviciute 9, Sarune Povilionyte 9
Czech Republic: Tereza Peckova 27, Lenka Sipova 12, Kamila Stepanova 12, Klara Pochobradska 9


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


2011 Universiade. Kendel Ross leads Canada past Finland - by Eurobasket News
Canada - Finland 71:66

Canada will play for the fifth position at 2011 World University Games. They overcame Finland in the classification round game tonight. Kendel Ross (185-G/F-88, college: Dayton) posted 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Canada will take on Russia, while Finland will face Brazil on the final day of the competition.
Finland looked better in the opening quarter. They posted a 25:16 lead ten minutes into the encounter. But Canada gradually took over. The North American team surged ahead for a 42:35 halftime advantage. The teams went neck and neck throughout the third stanza. Finland eventually pulled ahead for a narrow 53:52 advantage into the fourth quarter. The European side still led by a single point midway through the fourth period. But Langlois fired five points in a row and later Kathleen Miyazaki (175-F-89) and Megan Pinske (176-G-88) sealed the victory for Canada. Folade Raincock-Ekunwe (188-F-91) dropped 10 points, while Julie Seabrooks (190-F-90) added 9 points in the winning effort. Hanna Vapamaa (180-F-90) answered with 19 points for Finland. Vilma Kesanen (172-G-88) and Krista Gross (183-G/F-90) finished with 12 points apiece in the loss.

Canada: Kendel Ross 17+11 boards, Folade Raincock-Ekunwe 10, Julie Seabrooks 9
Finland: Hanna Vapamaa 19, Vilma Kesanen 12, Krista Gross 12


*****************************************************
  JAPAN - Women  


2011 Universiade. The hosts edged Japan in the Asian thriller for 9-12 places - by Eurobasket News
China-Japan 57:55

The hosts edged Japan in the Asian thriller for 9-12 places at the World University Games. China had a comfortable lead, but had to escape 57:55 win.
China opened the game with 9:5 and grabbed 15:12 after the first 10 minutes in the court. After another 16-12 in the second period the hosts led 31:24 leaving for the break. The board showed 37:30 after 25 minutes in the game and then after another surge China took 49:38 at the end of thirty minutes. Nothing had changed in the first five minutes of the last period when China enjoyed 53:40 with 5 minutes to go. Japan however did not give up and surged back to reduce to 57:55. They could not however win the game.
Wang Miqi (185-F-89) top-scored for the winners with 25 points, while Guo Xiaochen (183-F-92) collected 11 points and 12 caroms. Shao Ting (183-F-89) followed them with 9 points and 11 boards. Mio Shinozaki (166-PG-91) ended up with 18 points in the losing case, while Azusa Sato (167-G-89) added 13. Kayoko Amano (180-C-89) and Mika Kurihara (178-F-89) nailed 10 points apiece in a loss.

China: Wang Miqi 25, Guo Xiaochen 11+12 rebs, Shao Ting 9+11 rebs
Japan: Mio Shinozaki 18, Azusa Sato 13, Kayoko Amano 10, Mika Kurihara 10


*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA - Women  


2011 Universiade. Czech Republic overcame Lithuania at the Classification 9-12 Places - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania-Czech Republic 59:82

Czech Republic overcame Lithuania at the Women's Classification 9-12 Places in China. The Czechs needed 82:59 win and will face China for the 9th spot. Lithuania meanwhile will take on Japan at the last game.
Czech Republic looked better in the whole game and started with 25:10. They continued their dominance in the second frame and reached 41:22 at the halftime. Lithuania reduced to 18 points midway through the third frame and trailed 27:49, while the board remained the difference after thirty minutes at 58:40. Czech Republic enjoyed 70:49 with 5 minutes to go and reached 23-point victory at the end.
Tereza Peckova (190-F-87) stepped up with 27 points for the winners and Lenka Sipova (185-C-88) as well as Kamila Stepanova (192-C-88) posted 12 apiece. Klara Pochobradska (187-C-89) ended up with 9 points at the World University Games Day 5. Lina Aglinskaite (182-F-87) answered with 12 points in the losing case, while Laima Rickeviciute (188-F-88) and Sarune Povilionyte (182-F-88) delivered 9 each.

Lithuania: Lina Aglinskaite 12, Laima Rickeviciute 9, Sarune Povilionyte 9
Czech Republic: Tereza Peckova 27, Lenka Sipova 12, Kamila Stepanova 12, Klara Pochobradska 9


*****************************************************
  NAIA - Women  


Rachel Oswald named to the All-star team in Eurobasket summer league - by Arnault Desira
Columbia College alumna Rachel Oswald (6'0''-F, college: Columbia (MO), 2010 American Midwest Conference Player of the Year has been named to the All-Star team in Eurobasket summer league.

The three-time NAIA All-American made a splash at the latest Eurobasket Summer League showcase held in Atlanta, Georgia last July. She averaged 13.5 points and 7 rebounds in two games for Team Greece.

She finished her career with the Columbia College Cougars second in scoring (1,552 pts), first in rebounding (860), third in blocks (83) and fifth in steals (171).

She has signed with Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) to pursue a professional women's basketball career.

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


2011 Universiade. USA hold off Australia to reach Final - by Eurobasket News
USA - Australia 79:67

USA will play at World University Games Final in Shenzhen. They will defend their title against Taiwan on Sunday. Australia will take on Sweden in consolation final.
USA surged ahead early in the encounter and posted a 20:17 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second period. USA registered a 31:27 halftime lead. The North American team posted a 53:46 lead heading into the fourth frame. USA went on a 9:0 run midway through the fourth term to boost the margin at 16 points. They never looked back afterwards and rallied to the victory at the end. Elena Delle Donne (6'5''-G/F-89) posted 22 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners. Skylar Diggins (5'9''-G-90) accounted for 17 points for the United States. Nicole Hunt (5'6''-G-88) answered with 18 points for Australia. Cayla Francis (6'4''-C-89) notched 15 points and 14 rebounds in the loss.

USA: Elena Delle Donne 22+11 boards, Skylar Diggins 17, Devereaux Peters 8, Chinenye Ogwumike 8
Australia: Nicole Hunt 18, Cayla Francis 15+14 boards


*****************************************************
  POLAND - Women  


2011 Universiade. Slovakia and Poland opened Day 5 in China - by Eurobasket News
Slovakia-Poland 53:45

Slovakia won over Poland at the Women's Classification 13th-16th Game in China. Slovakia needed defensive 53:45 in the start of Day 5 at the World University Games.
It was a slow start and as a result Slovakia grabbed 8:3 after the first five minutes. They had 14:10 at the end of the frame and actually never looked behind after. The board showed 23:13 after 15 minutes in the court and Slovakia enjoyed 28:19 at the halftime. Poland come closer to 32:25 in the middle of the third period, but Slovakia grabbed 41:31 at the end of the period. They had 51:41 with 5 minutes to go, but could score only 2 more points until the end of the game.
Eva Kmetova (188-C-87) paced all the winners with 11 points and Dominika Baburova (183-F-91) nailed 10. Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) replied with 17 points in the losing effort, whilst Claudia Trebicka (175-G/F-90) and Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk (188-F/C-89) brought 8 apiece.

Poland scored 10 fast break points and had 26 points in the paint. Slovakia meanwhile showed better percentage from the field.

Slovakia: Eva Kmetova 11, Dominika Baburova 10
Poland: Agnieszka Skobel 17, Claudia Trebicka 8, Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk 8



Widzew signs Natalia Maaszewska - by Eurobasket News
Natalia Malaszewska (178-G-84, agency: Promotex) is a new member of Widzew. The Polish guard penned a one-year deal with her new club. Maaszewska arrives to Widzew from Energa Torun, where she spent last season. For 28 games in the league she averaged 3.4 points, 1.1 rebounds and 1.4 apg. Maaszewska had slightly better numbers in 7 EuroCup games. In this competition she registered 4.1 ppg, 1.1 rpg and 2.1 apg. Before Energa Torun, Natalia Malaszewska spent one season with Odra Brzeg. She had 8.8 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 2 apg and 2.7 spg for them in 26 PLKK games. In the past, Natalia Malaszewska played for CCC Polkowice and AZS KK Jelenia Gora. In 2008, she was named Eurobasket.com All-PLKK Most Improved Player of the Year. Two years before that she was awarded with Eurobasket.com Polish PLKK All-Newcomers Team.

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


2011 Universiade. Russia won over Brazil at the Classification Round for 5-8 places - by Eurobasket News
Brazil-Russia 58:65

Russia won over Brazil at the Classification Round for 5-8 places at the World University Games. The European team had a strong third period to clinch 65:58 victory.
Russia opened the game with 8:7 after the first five minutes and increased to 16:14 after the first 10 minutes. Brazil took the lead in the second period and enjoyed 20:16 midway through the quarter. The board showed 24:23 at the halftime as it was the last time in front for the Latin American side. Russia erupted with 23-9 in the third quarter and took 46:33 entering the last period. Brazil did their best to recover but could produce only 25-19 in the final frame. It was enough only to cut the deficit to 7 points.
Maria Cherepanova (187-C-87) paced all the winners with 18 points, while Natalia Myasoedova (193-C-87) collected 14 points and 10 rebounds. Nadia Calhado (196-C-89) ended up with 15 points and 14 rebounds, while Leila Zabani (180-G/F-91) netted 14. Patricia Ribeiro (178-G/F-90) posted 13 and Tassia Carcavalli (179-F-92) added 9 points.

Brazil: Nadia Calhado 15+14 rebs, Leila Zabani 14, Patricia Ribeiro 13, Tassia Carcavalli 9
Russia: Maria Cherepanova 18, Natalia Myasoedova 14+10 rebs



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


2011 Universiade. Slovakia and Poland opened Day 5 in China - by Eurobasket News
Slovakia-Poland 53:45

Slovakia won over Poland at the Women's Classification 13th-16th Game in China. Slovakia needed defensive 53:45 in the start of Day 5 at the World University Games.
It was a slow start and as a result Slovakia grabbed 8:3 after the first five minutes. They had 14:10 at the end of the frame and actually never looked behind after. The board showed 23:13 after 15 minutes in the court and Slovakia enjoyed 28:19 at the halftime. Poland come closer to 32:25 in the middle of the third period, but Slovakia grabbed 41:31 at the end of the period. They had 51:41 with 5 minutes to go, but could score only 2 more points until the end of the game.
Eva Kmetova (188-C-87) paced all the winners with 11 points and Dominika Baburova (183-F-91) nailed 10. Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) replied with 17 points in the losing effort, whilst Claudia Trebicka (175-G/F-90) and Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk (188-F/C-89) brought 8 apiece.

Poland scored 10 fast break points and had 26 points in the paint. Slovakia meanwhile showed better percentage from the field.

Slovakia: Eva Kmetova 11, Dominika Baburova 10
Poland: Agnieszka Skobel 17, Claudia Trebicka 8, Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk 8



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


2011 Universiade. Chinese Taipei shock Sweden in overtime, reach the Final - by Eurobasket News
Chinese Taipei-Sweden 71:70 OT

Chinese Taipei advanced to the Final of the World University Games. The Asian team shocked Sweden 71:70 in overtime to remain undefeated in the tournament. It was the best game so far at the tournament and was held at the Main Gymnasium of Universiade Center.
Both teams probably dreamt of Semifinals and achieved already high honors from the specialists. The Scandinavian team that was the only European representative left in Final Four started with 11:6 and reached 23:13 in the end of the frame. Chinese Taipei however erupted with 17-4 in the second period and grabbed 30:27 at the halftime. The Asian team added 24-19 in the third period and enjoyed 54:46 after three quarters. Trailing 6 points with 5 minutes in the fourth period, Sweden tied the game at 64:64 heading to overtime. Due to 7-6 in it, the Asian team became the first Finalist in Shenzhen.
Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) paced all the winners with 22 points and Huang Ping-Jen (178-F-89) netted 17. Hsu Chien-Hui (171-G/F-89) scored 12, while Huang Fan-Shan (173-G-87) and Huang YingLi (170-G-89) delivered 8 points each. Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) replied with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) collected 16 points and 11 rebounds.

Chinese Taipei: Chen Yu-Chun 22, Huang Ping-Jen 17, Hsu Chien-Hui 12, Huang Fan-Shan 8, Huang YingLi 8
Sweden: Louice Halvarsson 20, Frida Eldebrink 16+11 rebs, Stefanie Yderstrom (172-G-90) 9


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


2011 Universiade. Chinese Taipei shock Sweden in overtime, reach the Final - by Eurobasket News
Chinese Taipei-Sweden 71:70 OT

Chinese Taipei advanced to the Final of the World University Games. The Asian team shocked Sweden 71:70 in overtime to remain undefeated in the tournament. It was the best game so far at the tournament and was held at the Main Gymnasium of Universiade Center.
Both teams probably dreamt of Semifinals and achieved already high honors from the specialists. The Scandinavian team that was the only European representative left in Final Four started with 11:6 and reached 23:13 in the end of the frame. Chinese Taipei however erupted with 17-4 in the second period and grabbed 30:27 at the halftime. The Asian team added 24-19 in the third period and enjoyed 54:46 after three quarters. Trailing 6 points with 5 minutes in the fourth period, Sweden tied the game at 64:64 heading to overtime. Due to 7-6 in it, the Asian team became the first Finalist in Shenzhen.
Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) paced all the winners with 22 points and Huang Ping-Jen (178-F-89) netted 17. Hsu Chien-Hui (171-G/F-89) scored 12, while Huang Fan-Shan (173-G-87) and Huang YingLi (170-G-89) delivered 8 points each. Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) replied with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) collected 16 points and 11 rebounds.

Chinese Taipei: Chen Yu-Chun 22, Huang Ping-Jen 17, Hsu Chien-Hui 12, Huang Fan-Shan 8, Huang YingLi 8
Sweden: Louice Halvarsson 20, Frida Eldebrink 16+11 rebs, Stefanie Yderstrom (172-G-90) 9


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


Standings
WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Indiana F. 18-8 
 2. Connecticut S. 16-9 
 3. New York L. 15-11 
 4. Atlanta D. 12-12 
 5. Chicago S. 11-14 
 6. Washington M. 5-18 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 19-6 
 2. Phoenix M. 14-10 
 3. S.Antonio SS 13-11 
 4. Seattle S. 13-12 
 5. L.Angeles S. 10-14 
 6. Tulsa S. 1-22 


Lynx rebound from bad loss, rout Mystics 81-62 - by Eurobasket News
Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) scored 18 points and Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut) added 14 as the Minnesota Lynx rebounded from their worst loss of the season by routing the Washington Mystics 81-62 on Thursday night.

Rebekkah Brunson (6'3''-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) scored 13 points for the Lynx (19-6), who shot 57.1 percent (36 for 63) from the field - matching their season high set at Seattle on June 9. The Western Conference leaders lost by 29 points at Connecticut on Tuesday, but bounced back to win for the 12th time in 14 games.

Matee Ajavon scored 15 points and Marissa Coleman had 12 points for the Mystics (5-18), in their most lopsided loss of the season. Washington has lost three straight and four of five.

Washington's previous five losses were by a combined 18 points, but the Mystics trailed by as many as 23 in the second half against Minnesota.

Moore's basket to open the second quarter put the Lynx ahead for good at 19-18. Lindsay Whalen's 3-pointer at the halftime buzzer gave Minnesota its largest first-half lead at 39-29.

After Taj McWilliams Franklin's layup with 2:07 remaining in the third quarter made it 53-42, the lead never dipped below 10 points. The Lynx made seven of their first eight shots in the fourth.

Crystal Langhorne scored 11 points for the Mystics, who three-game winning streak against the Lynx was snapped.

Whalen scored 11 points and had seven assists for the Lynx.

Courtesy of www.cbsnews.com

Hoffman helps Sparks beat Fever - by Eurobasket News
Rather than being upset that Candace Parker's return to the starting lineup came at her expense, Ebony Hoffman (6'2''-F/C-82, college: USC) is embracing it.

Hoffman scored 21 points against her former team to help the Los Angeles Sparks beat the Indiana Fever 75-70 on Thursday night.

Parker, appearing in her second game since missing six weeks with a knee injury, added 18 points and Los Angeles (10-14) held Indiana (18-8) to four points over the final 4:57.

'We all knew Candace was coming back, and she was going to be back in the starting lineup,' Hoffman said. 'It doesn't change my role any. I'm still going to be aggressive, I still gotta score points.'

Parker returned to her accustomed starting role after playing 26 minutes off the bench on Tuesday before being ejected in the closing seconds of an 84-79 loss to Atlanta.

Parker was on the floor for all but 30 seconds against Indiana. She said she didn't expect to play the full game and felt fatigued at times. Most importantly, though, she's had no setbacks with her rehabilitated right knee.

'I feel confident in my knee,' Parker said. 'I don't think I'm hesitant in doing anything or think twice about doing something I wouldn't have done before.'

Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) and Erin Phillips (5'8''-G-85) each had 16 points for the Eastern Conference-leading Fever, which snapped a three-game winning streak.

The Fever led by as many as 12 points and were up by four in the fourth. But they went scoreless for 3:42 and were outscored 13-4 to close the game.

'We stalled down the stretch,' Phillips said. 'We missed some shots we usually make.'

After Noelle Quinn's layup put the Sparks ahead, Katie Douglas made a 3-pointer and layup for the 66-62 lead with 4:57 remaining. Quinn answered by hitting a 3-pointer and Parker drew the foul while making a layup. Her free throw gave the Sparks a 68-66 lead with 3:13 to go.

The Fever snapped a nearly 4-minute scoring drought when Douglas' two free throws with 20.6 seconds left cut it to 70-68.

Indiana fouled Parker on the inbounds and she spilt the free throws for a three-point cushion. Catchings missed a layup and, after another intentional foul, Hoffman made two free throws.

Hoffman, who had started the previous 16 games in place of Parker, spent her first seven seasons with Indiana, where she ranks second in franchise history in rebounding. The Los Angeles native came off the bench and made her imprint, scoring 15 points on three 3-pointers in the first half.

She was more than happy to have a strong showing against her friends.

'I'm not going to lie, it's great. But it's not my only motivation to have a great game against them,' Hoffman said. 'There was no love loss. Indy wanted me to play there. But it was a matter of me coming home to play in front of my family.'

The win helped the Sparks conclude their season-high, six-game homestand with a 3-3 mark. The victory also prevented Minnesota from clinching a playoff spot in the West.

The Fever took advantage of a slow start by the Sparks to score the game's first seven points. Los Angeles missed its first five shots as Indiana's lead swelled to 16-4 on a layup by Tammy Sutton-Brown.

Hoffman got the Sparks back in it, hitting a 3-pointer to close the first quarter and opening the second with another 3. Kristi Toliver's jumper tied the score before Hoffman's third 3-pointer of the half gave the Sparks their first lead at 24-21.

Courtesy of www.kentucky.com

Pondexter, Liberty beat Sun 84-81 in overtime - by Eurobasket News
Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) hit a fall-away jumper with 24.3 seconds left in overtime and finished with 27 points to help the New York Liberty rally for an 84-81 victory against the Connecticut Sun on Thursday night.

Down by 15 points after the third quarter, the Liberty (15-11) limited the Sun to seven points in the fourth quarter and seven more in overtime to win their third straight game.

Pondexter -- who hit a clutch shot with 13 seconds left to lift the Liberty to victory in their last outing -- hit three jumpers in the extra period and Kia Vaughn (17 points, 11 rebounds) added a putback.

The win moved the Liberty within 1 12 games of the Sun (16-9) for second in the Eastern Conference. The Sun had won two straight.

Pondexter hit an off-balance 3-pointer to give the Liberty a 74-71 lead with 50.6 seconds left, but Kara Lawson (5'8''-G-81, college: Tennessee) countered with a 3-pointer with 30 seconds left to force overtime.

Essence Carson (6'0''-G-86, college: Rutgers) scored 19 points for the Liberty, including two free throws with 6 seconds left to seal the win.

Former UConn standout and reigning WNBA rookie of the year Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) had 29 points and 13 rebounds for the Sun (16-9) and Renee Montgomery -- another former UConn All-America -- added 16 points.

It was the 100th career WNBA win for Liberty head coach John Whisenant.

The Sun will try to get back on track tonight in Atlanta.

The Liberty's next outing is scheduled for Saturday night in Seattle .

Courtesy of www.thehour.com

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  WORLD UNIVERSITY GAMES - Women  


USA will defend the title against Taiwan - by Eurobasket News
SEMIFINALS
Taiwan - Sweden 71-70 OT
Chinese Taipei advanced to the Final of the World University Games. The Asian team shocked Sweden 71:70 in overtime to remain undefeated in the tournament. It was the best game so far at the tournament and was held at the Main Gymnasium of Universiade Center. Both teams probably dreamt of Semifinals and achieved already high honors from the specialists. The Scandinavian team that was the only European representative left in Final Four started with 11:6 and reached 23:13 in the end of the frame. Chinese Taipei however erupted with 17-4 in the second period and grabbed 30:27 at the halftime. The Asian team added 24-19 in the third period and enjoyed 54:46 after three quarters. Trailing 6 points with 5 minutes in the fourth period, Sweden tied the game at 64:64 heading to overtime. Due to 7-6 in it, the Asian team became the first Finalist in Shenzhen. Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) paced all the winners with 22 points and Huang Ping-Jen netted 17. Hsu Chien-Hui (171-G/F-89) scored 12, while Huang Fan-Shan (173-G-87) and Huang YingLi (170-G-89) delivered 8 points each. Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) replied with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Eldebrink Frida collected 16 points and 11 rebounds.

USA - Australia 79-67
USA will play at World University Games Final in Shenzhen. They will defend their title against Taiwan on Sunday. Australia will take on Sweden in consolation final. USA surged ahead early in the encounter and posted a 20:17 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second period. USA registered a 31:27 halftime lead. The North American team posted a 53:46 lead heading into the fourth frame. USA went on a 9:0 run midway through the fourth term to boost the margin at 16 points. They never looked back afterwards and rallied to the victory at the end. Elena Delle Donne (195-G/F-89) posted 22 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners. Skylar Diggins (175-G-90) accounted for 17 points for the United States. Nicole Hunt (167-G-88) answered with 18 points for Australia. Cayla Francis (192-C-89) notched 15 points and 14 rebounds in the loss.



5-8 places
Brazil - Russia 58-65
Russia won over Brazil at the Classification Round for 5-8 places at the World University Games. The European team had a strong third period to clinch 65:58 victory. Russia opened the game with 8:7 after the first five minutes and increased to 16:14 after the first 10 minutes. Brazil took the lead in the second period and enjoyed 20:16 midway through the quarter. The board showed 24:23 at the halftime as it was the last time in front for the Latin American side. Russia erupted with 23-9 in the third quarter and took 46:33 entering the last period. Brazil did their best to recover but could produce only 25-19 in the final frame. It was enough only to cut the deficit to 7 points. Maria Cherepanova (187-C-87) paced all the winners with 18 points, while Natalia Myasoedova (193-C-87) collected 14 points and 10 rebounds. Nadia Calhado (196-C-89) ended up with 15 points and 14 rebounds, while Leila Zabani (180-G/F-91) netted 14. Ribeiro Patricia posted 13 and Tassia Carcavalli (179-F-92) added 9 points.

Finland - Canada 66-71
Canada will play for the fifth position at 2011 World University Games. They overcame Finland in the classification round game tonight. Kendel Ross posted 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Canada will take on Russia, while Finland will face Brazil on the final day of the competition. Finland looked better in the opening quarter. They posted a 25:16 lead ten minutes into the encounter. But Canada gradually took over. The North American team surged ahead for a 42:35 halftime advantage. The teams went neck and neck throughout the third stanza. Finland eventually pulled ahead for a narrow 53:52 advantage into the fourth quarter. The European side still led by a single point midway through the fourth period. But Langlois fired five points in a row and later Kathleen Miyazaki (175-F-89) and Megan Pinske sealed the victory for Canada. Folade Raincock-Ekunwe (188-F-91) dropped 10 points, while Julie Seabrooks (190-F-90) added 9 points in the winning effort. Hanna Vapamaa (180-F-90) answered with 19 points for Finland. Vilma Kesanen (172-G-88) and Krista Gross (183-G/F-90) finished with 12 points apiece in the loss.

Group 9-12 places
Lithuania - Czech Republic 59-82
Czech Republic overcame Lithuania at the Women's Classification 9-12 Places in China. The Czechs needed 82:59 win and will face China for the 9th spot. Lithuania meanwhile will take on Japan at the last game. Czech Republic looked better in the whole game and started with 25:10. They continued their dominance in the second frame and reached 41:22 at the halftime. Lithuania reduced to 18 points midway through the third frame and trailed 27:49, while the board remained the difference after thirty minutes at 58:40. Czech Republic enjoyed 70:49 with 5 minutes to go and reached 23-point victory at the end. Tereza Peckova (190-F-87) stepped up with 27 points for the winners and Lenka Sipova (185-C-88) as well as Kamila Stepanova (192-C-88) posted 12 apiece. Klara Pochobradska (187-C-89) ended up with 9 points at the World University Games Day 5. Lina Aglinskaite (182-F-87) answered with 12 points in the losing case, while Rickeviciute Laima and Sarune Povilionyte (182-F-88) delivered 9 each.

China - Japan 57-55
The hosts edged Japan in the Asian thriller for 9-12 places at the World University Games. China had a comfortable lead, but had to escape 57:55 win. China opened the game with 9:5 and grabbed 15:12 after the first 10 minutes in the court. After another 16-12 in the second period the hosts led 31:24 leaving for the break. The board showed 37:30 after 25 minutes in the game and then after another surge China took 49:38 at the end of thirty minutes. Nothing had changed in the first five minutes of the last period when China enjoyed 53:40 with 5 minutes to go. Japan however did not give up and surged back to reduce to 57:55. They could not however win the game. Wang Miqi (185-F-89) top-scored for the winners with 25 points, while Guo Xiaochen (183-F-92) collected 11 points and 12 caroms. Shao Ting (183-F-89) followed them with 9 points and 11 boards. Shinozaki Mio ended up with 18 points in the losing case, while Sato Azusa added 13. Kayoko Amano (180-C-89) and Kurihara Mika nailed 10 points apiece in a loss.

13-16 places
Slovakia - Poland 53-45
Slovakia won over Poland at the Women's Classification 13th-16th Places in China. Slovakia needed defensive 53:45 in the start of Day 5 at the World University Games. It was a slow start and as a result Slovakia grabbed 8:3 after the first five minutes. They had 14:10 at the end of the frame and actually never looked behind after. The board showed 23:13 after 15 minutes in the court and Slovakia enjoyed 28:19 at the halftime. Poland come closer to 32:25 in the middle of the third period, but Slovakia grabbed 41:31 at the end of the period. They had 51:41 with 5 minutes to go, but could score only 2 more points until the end of the game. Poland scored 10 fast break points and had 26 points in the paint. Slovakia meanwhile showed better percentage from the field. Eva Kmetova (188-C-87) paced all the winners with 11 points and Dominika Baburova (183-F-91) nailed 10. Skobel Agnieszka replied with 17 points in the losing effort, whilst Claudia Trebicka (175-G/F-90) and Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk (188-F/C-89) brought 8 apiece.