Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/23/2011

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Men News

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Siroki gets Dino Butorac on loan from Cedevita - by Eurobasket News
Good news for Siroki. The Bosnian champion managed to agree a one-year loan with Dino Butorac (192-G-90) and his team Cedevita Zagreb. This is a good move also for the young Croatian guard who will have more chance to play next season. In the latest one he had limited playing time with Cedevita. Butorac appeared just 12 times in Adriatic league averaging 3 points. In EuroCup, he had 2 ppg for six games. Butorac also played 7 games for the team in Croatian league registering 5.6 ppg and 1.1 rpg. Dino Butorac played for the Croatian U20 and U19 National Team in the last two years. Last summer he had 8.4 ppg and 1.9 rpg for 8 games at the European Championships U20 in Croatia. In 2009, Butorac led U19 Croatia to bronze medal at the World Championships U19 in New Zealand. He had 8.2 ppg and 1.6 rpg for 9 games at this event.

Zlatorog brings back Mali, complets roster - by Zeljko Zule
Zlatorog completed its roster for the upcoming season by bringing back Grega Mali (197-G-84). He played two seasons with the club from 2006 through 2008. Mali averaged 12.6 points and 3.7 points in 23 Slovenian League games in his final season with Zlatorog, 2007-08. Last season Mali played for Helios, where he posted 12.5 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists over 31 Telemach League games.
Zlatorog 2011-12: John Roberson (180-G-88, college: Texas Tech), Danijel Vujasinovic (180-G-89), Vladimir Panic (194-F-82, agency: 011 Sports), Grega Mali, Miha Lapornik (192-G-93), Luka Lapornik (195-G-88), Mitja Nikolic Smrdelj (201-F-91), Jaka Brodnik (203-F-92), Jure Skific (202-F/C-88), Simo Atanackovic (206-F-90), Ziga Dimec (208-C/F-93), Darko Cohadarevic (206-F-86, college: Texas Tech), Alen Omic (213-C-92). Coach: Rado Trifunovic . Assistant: Predrag Radovic .

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AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

26th Afrobasket: Papa Dia lift Senegal over Chad - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Papa Diaga Dia was at his best Monday as he led Senegal offense against Chad in their last group-B game of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men at the Palais des Sports Antananarivo, Madagascar.

The 2.12 metre tall centre notch up a double double figure of 31 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists to give Senegal a 92-54 points victory to maintain a clean slate.

Dia was joined by the duo of Mouhammad Faye and Mohamet Diop on the scorer sheet with 16 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 11 points, 4 rebounds and 3 steals.

Senegal will take on host Madagascar in the next round of the championship on Tuesday.

26th Afrobasket: With luck Nigeria can lift the trophy Masai - by Olusegun Ikuesan
A former Nigerian international, Masai Ujiri has praised the Coach Ayo Bakare tutored side at the 26th edition of FIBA Africa Championship for Men in Antananarivo, Madagascar for winning all its group-A games.

Ujiri who once played under Coach Bakare said though the team is doing well but a bit of luck will see it lifting the Afrobasket which has eluded Nigeria since 1962.

The Denver Nuggets basketball club Vice-President Operation is however, optimistic that the present team is capable of going far as they play more as a unit compare to what obtain with past teams.

Ujiri also rated the standard of the 26th edition of the championship high as concluded that Africa can take its pride of place in world basketball if FIBA Africa and respective federations can be more proactive.

Ujiri urge former players to always give back to their countries by assisting upcoming players through the organisation of camps for young players.

He says the 2011 Top-50 camp billed for next month in Nigeria will go ahead as schedule as arrangement have been concluded on the camp

26th Afrobasket: Rwanda pipe Togo 87-67 finish 3rd in Group-C - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Rwanda Monday finish third in group-C with an 87-67 points victory over Togo in both sides last group game at the Palais des Sports, Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Rwanda open the game with a 27-08 and 24-10 points advantage in the first and second quarters but Togo stage a late come-back from the beginning of the third quarter forcing Rwanda to commit mistake though the insurgence was late to save them from defeat but Rwanda lost both quarters by 21-23 and 15-26 points.

Herbert Gasana led the floor with 19 points, 9 assists, 2 rebound and 2 steal, forward Robert Thomson contributed 18 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assist and 2 steal with Bradley Cameron grabbing a double double of 13 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals to earn Rwanda its first win of the championship.

Rwanda will battle Cote dIvoire Wednesday in the eight final round at 15H00.
Robert Thomson (208-C-82, college: Fairfield)

26th Afrobasket: Morocco finish 3rd, loses to Angola 61-75 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Morocco Monday lost to defending champion of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men by 61-75 points and finished in group-B will therefore confront Mali in the eight final round on Wednesday.

Morocco took the first quarter by 16-15 points but were beaten to the game in the remaining three quarters by the ten-time champion of Africa biggest basketball competition by 16-24, 18-22 and 11-14 points for a final scores of 61-75 points.

Angola guard Armando Costa led evry one on court with 21 points, 4 assists and 2 rebound with Felizardo Ambrosio adding 16 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists as Angola finish the preliminary series in second place and will confront Mozambique Tuesday night.

26th Afrobasket: Central Africa fail Tunisia test 52-65 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Central Africa Repulic Monday failed to stop 2009 third place team, Tunisia in the battle for the top seed of group-D losing by 52-65 points of the 26th Afrobasket.

The FIBA Africa Zone-4 nation lost in the first and last quarters by 13-22 and 16-23 points but manage to win by a slim margin in the second and third quarters by 14-12 and 09-08 points in a keenly contested battle of supremacy.

Tunisia veteran Radhouane led his team with 14 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists while the duo of Mourad El-Mabrouk and Marouan Kechrid added 13 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 13 points and 4 assists respectively with Central Africa Michael Mokongo leading the floor with 26 points.

Wih the results Central Africa thus end the first round series in second position as Tunisia finished first, Central Africa will now keep a date with Egypt in the eight round finals on Tuesday while Tunisia battle South Africa on Wednesday.

Standings

Standings

Group A
1. Nigeria		3-0
2. Mali		2-1
3. Mozambique.		1-2
4. Madagascar.		0-3
Group B
1. Senegal		3-0
2. Morocco		1-1
3. Angola		1-1
4. Chad		0-3
Group C
1. Cameroon		3-0
2. Egypt		1-2
3. Ivory Coas.		1-2
4. S.Africa		1-2
Group D
1. Tunisia		3-0
2. C.Africa		2-1
3. Rwanda		1-2
4. Togo		0-3

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ALBANIA

ANGOLA

26th Afrobasket: Morocco finish 3rd, loses to Angola 61-75 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Morocco Monday lost to defending champion of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men by 61-75 points and finished in group-B will therefore confront Mali in the eight final round on Wednesday.

Morocco took the first quarter by 16-15 points but were beaten to the game in the remaining three quarters by the ten-time champion of Africa biggest basketball competition by 16-24, 18-22 and 11-14 points for a final scores of 61-75 points.

Angola guard Armando Costa led evry one on court with 21 points, 4 assists and 2 rebound with Felizardo Ambrosio adding 16 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists as Angola finish the preliminary series in second place and will confront Mozambique Tuesday night.

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ARGENTINA

Joe Bunn to TNA - by Facundo Iatzky
Veteran Joseph Bunn (198-F/C-75, college: Phillips, OK) agreed terms with Estudiantes concordia to play the upcoming season of TNA in Argentina. Joseph was the top scorer of Liga A last season playing for Argentino Junin. he is one of the best import players who have ever played in Argentina. He will share the team with important players like Lucas Picarelli, Sergio Ravina and Nacho Alessio who will try to get the promotion to liga A.

Liga A 2011/12 rosters: 9 de Julio rio Tercero - by Facundo Iatzky
Emiliano Martina (201-C/F-83)
Gaston Torre (185-G-85)
Diego Gerbaudo (182-G-89)
Martin Melo (197-F-82)
Gaston Luchino (184-G-82)
Pablo Orlietti (208-C/F-90)
Delonte Holland (201-F-82, college: De Paul)
Keith Gayden (202-F-83, college: Duquesne)
Vernon Goodridge (206-F-84, college: La Salle)
Lucio Reinaudi (183-G-95)
Juan Prono (95)
Julian Gatti (190-F-93)
Matias Dominguez
Maurcio Corzo (95)

Liga A 2011/12 rosters: Atenas Cordoba - by Facundo Iatzky
We begin our preview of the 16 teams that will play in the upcoming season of Liga A.

Bruno Labaque (183-G-77, agency: Interperformances)
Miguel Gerlero (192-G-88)
Matias Lescano (196-G/F-79)
Juan Manuel Rivero (191-G-85)
Mariano Garcia (202-F-86)
Facundo Sucatzky (176-G-72)
Marcus Melvin (203-F-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.)
Elton Tyler (205-F/C-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Miami, FL)
Rammel Allen (210-C-79, college: Bridgeport)
Bruno Colli (175-G-92)
Agustin Jure (183-G-91)
Franco Barroso (207-C-94)
Carlos Benitez (194-F-93)

Youth team:
Marcos Bosch (196-F-93)
Daniel Tabbia (193-G-93)
Joaquin Ferez (189-G-94)
Tomas Ligorria (198-F-94)

Gimnasia de Comodoro Rivadavia bring Mario Austin - by Eurobasket News
Gimnasia de Comodoro Rivadavia bring Mario Austin (206-F/C-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Mississippi St.) for the upcoming season. The American player comes from Titanes Del Distrito Nacional.
In 2009 Mario Austin played in Spain for Lucentum Alicante. He notched 10.8 points and 4.1 boards per game in ACB. In April Mario Austin moved to Puerto Rico. There the centre joined Atleticos de San German. Mario Austin produced 15.5 points, 8.0 boards and 2.4 assists per BSN appearance.
Austin can play both the power forward role as well as Center, and has a good touch from the perimeter. In only his second game in China he personally destroyed Shanghai with a 53 point game.
In 2010-2011 he played for Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk (Ukraine-Superleague, starting five) and in VTB League after 8 games averaged 12.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 61.7%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 72.7%. In Ukrainian League after 45 games his stats read 12.1ppg, Reb-5 (7.3rpg), 1.8apg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 26.4%, FT: 70.1%. After Ukraine the player moved to Titanes Del Distrito Nacional (Dominican Rep.-LNB, starting five).

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ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Lebanon find China too hot and hard to handle - by Maarouf Mawloud
For a team playing only their second ever game in Level I, Lebanon did well to boost their morale in the early part of the game against defending champions China even going ahead at the end of the first quarter.

But as things would have it, China probably yet to recover completely from the draining Double Overtime defeat to Korea last night came into their own in the second quarter and coasted along for a 79-58 win.

Lebanon lead 19-13 at the end of the first quarter and when their naturalized center Brittany Denson capped a three-point play and followed it up with a three-pointer the WABA team was ahead 25-19.

Ma Zengyu (pic above) took charge of the proceedings on Chinas behalf at this stage fired in two three-pointers to spark what eventually turned out to be a 13-0 run A run that took the winds off Lebanons sails.

Ma Zengyu went on to score a dozen points, all of them in the second quarter.

I am happy to help the team when the situation demands, Ma said.

Youngster Gao Song led Chinas scoring with a 19-point effort, was yet unsatisfied with her performance and was seen sobbing at the end of the game.

Thats the spirit of the youngster who feels she hasnt done enough, said China coach Sun Fengwu.

Its good and bad. Good because she (Gao) feels could have done better, bad because she cant express it better than crying, he chuckled.

But as long as she feels she can improve and carry it further by working hard, she has a great future.

Lebanon did manage to remain close on the scoreboard, but whether it would have been easy if Nan Chen and Miao Lijie both the veterans were benched for the whole game had played was a question that would a long way in answering Lebanons long-term aspirations.

It was a great experience to play against a team like China, said Lebanon coach Elie Nasr.

Our aim is to retain ourselves in Level I. All other games are a part of our learning process to achieve that target, said senior Lebanon player Nayla Alameddine.

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AUSTRALIA

Big V: A clash of the titans and a battle for the ages - by Eurobasket News
A clash of the titans and a battle for the ages - the Falcons and Wildcats put on a show that will long be remembered for some amazing clutch shots that kept the crowd on the absolute edge of their seats.
Easily the game of the season, Waverley and Eltham put on a showstopper in game one with a Falcons victory (113-11) ensuring that we are on the cusp of witnessing one of the best grand final match-ups in Big V history. This contest had every-thing - fast, physical and loaded with some amaz-ing shots, stops and dimes. The big guns came out to play - some delivered and some didn't, but by the time the game found a winner after 50 minutes of game time, every player, coach, ref, game official and member of the crowd was drained.
The Falcons led for the most part, but when an off-balanced Johnny Lister drained a remarkable triple on the buzzer of regular time there is no doubt the home team must have felt they had missed a gold-en opportunity to go one up. The two overtime periods continued to produce the highest of highs and the lowest of lows of any great roller-coaster, which included players being fouled out, some ter-rible shooting from the foul line, some massive outside bombs, a couple of interesting match-ups and a number of heroic individual efforts.
www.bigv.com.au
Enter Mr Simon Blennerhassett (184-G-82) in the final few seconds of the second overtime period and just as Eltham's skipper had done in regular time, Waverley's leader banged down a triple in dramatic fashion. With one last gasp Eltham went long, and though Tommy Greer had a couple of Falcons to contend with, he got a hand to the ball and almost pulled off a mira-cle. Amazing game, incredible finish and the perfect entree to game two, and possibly game three.
Heading to Eltham this week we should finally see Waverley enjoying far more attention and a de-served slice of the spotlight. Every man, woman and child has lived the last six months believing Eltham would clinch a title after being handed a wooden spoon last season, but there is something about this Waverley outfit that simply deserves the warm-est of applause. Tough, committed and prepared to stick to a game plan, the Falcons coaching staff had the upper hand in game one and continually pushed the onus back on the Wildcats to answer the challenge, which they did for all but the final few seconds. Bring on game two ...... and three?

GRAND FINAL GAME 1 RESULTS
Waverley 113 defeated Eltham 111 WAVERLEY LEADS SERIES 1-0
After arguably his best two games of the season, Adrien Sturt was shut down by the Falcons and must return to being a double-double machine if the Wildcats are any chance of celebrating a champi-onship.
Can Waverley topple another red-hot championship favourite? Last season the Falcons crushed the Hawks and now they are one win away from bringing the Wildcats crashing down. Why is it that more people aren't talking about Waverley?
Waverley's dynamic trio of Simon Blennerhassett, Dillon and Sedale Threatt (188-G-82, college: CSU Bakersfield) proved too fast for the Wildcats. The slick guards combined for 70pts and 11 treys, continually doing something magical to keep the Falcons alive.
Courtesy of: bigv.com.au

Mackay Meteors win 2011 QBL - by Eurobasket News
Talk N Text - Petron Blaze 73-85
Undermanned Petron foiled Talk 'N Text's Grand Slam bid Sunday night, carving out a masterful 85-73 win to bag the PBA Governors Cup championship before a crowd of 17,000 at the rocking Araneta Coliseum. Import Anthony Grundy, atoning for a dismal five-point output in Game 6 the last time, exploded at the right time for the Boosters with 26 points as he keyed a huge third quarter run just when momentum appeared to be shifting for the Tropang Texters'side. Grundy had 12 points during that decisive stretch that saw the Boosters reverse a 41-42 deficit to their biggest lead of the match, 62-48. The Tropang Texters played catch up from there, before Arwind Santos, who finished with 16 points and 16 rebounds to emerge as the hands-down choice as Finals MVP, scored on a breakaway two-handed slam with 37 seconds left for an 81-73 lead that sparked the over at the Petron bench and its hordes of supporters. Grundy made possible that Santos basket after completing a steal off a Maurice Baker pass to Ranidel de Ocampo. The Boosters, a heavy underdog against the powerhouse Tropang Texters, won the best-of-seven title series, 4-3, and clinched their 19th PBA championship overall. They likewise avenged their 4-2 loss against the Tropang Texters in the Philippine Cup Finals early this year. The victory was sweeter for coach Ato Agustin as he made it among the company of select PBA coaches who won a championship during their rookie year. Denok Miranda added 16 points for the Boosters, and Alex Cabagnot had 12, nine rebounds and eight assists in winning his first league championship together with Santos and rookie coach Ato Agustin. Talk 'N Text became the latest team after Alaska in 1998 to come up short of completing a sweep of all three season conferences. Import Maurice Baker finished with 22 points to lead the Tropang Texters, who failed to get the scoring support from injured player Jayson Castro and Larry Fonacier. Castro, hounded by an MCL injury and a sprained left ankle he suffered in the third period, only had two points, while Fonacier failed to score and finished with a 0-of-10 shooting from the field. A long three-point shot by Jimmy Alapag to beat the buzzer made it 64-53 heading into the pivotal fourth. A big break came the Tropang Texters' way halfway into the second quarter when Jojo Duncil was called for a flagrant foul 2 against Baker, resulting to the ejection of the tough Petron guard. Baker canned both free throws, and then added another pair of charities a few minutes later following a foul called this time on Sunday Salvacion. The four straight points of Baker formed part of a 7-0 blast by Talk 'N Text, cutting a 13-point deficit to just 28-34 with 6:15 left before halftime. Petron managed to keep the six-point lead at the break, 40-34. The Boosters went on an offensive mode early, with Miranda accounting for the team's first seven points. Then Danny Ildefonso, Santos and Cabagnot took over. A three-pointer by Cabagnot gave Petron a 20-11 lead with 5:24 to go, and then stretched it to a double-digit edge with another triple by Grundy to make it 25-13. The first period ended with the Boosters on top, 28-17. OMG, GMA News *Courtesy of www.pba-online.net

Australia pip Great Britain in London - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Great Britain 91:90 (OT)

Australia clinched the second position at the London Invitational Tournament. They held off Great Britain on the final day of the tournament to improve at 4-1 record. Brad Newley (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 23 points, 6 boards and 3 assists to pace the winners.
The Boomers ensured a quick start to the game. They rallied to a 21:15 lead after ten minutes. But the hosts gradually matched the tempo and narrowed the gap to 4 points at the interval. Great Britain maintained the pressure in the third frame. They got within 3 points with ten minutes to go in regulation. The Boomers cleared off to a 7-point lead with just over three minutes to go. But the hosts erupted with 9 points in a row to surge in front 80:78 with just over a minute left in regulation. Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports) answered with two free throws sending the game into overtime. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) stepped up for Great Britain early in the extra period giving those an 89:84 lead. But Australia went on a 7:1 run and snatched a tough victory at the end. Joe Ingles nailed 16 points, grabbed 5 boards and issued 4 assists, while Adam Gibson (188-G-86) provided 13 points in the win. Luol Deng (201-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) responded with 26 points and 9 rebounds for Great Britain. Joel Freeland notched 22 points in the loss.

Australia: Brad Newley 23, Joe Ingles 16, Adam Gibson 13
Great Britain: Luol Deng 26, Joel Freeland 22

2011 Universiade. Australia nip Mexico in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Mexico 71:68

Australia overcame Mexico on the final day of action at World University Games in China. The Aussies thus earned the 15th place at the tourney. Clinton Steindl (200-F-89) registered 15 points to lead the effort.
Mexico looked better in the starting frame. They established a 19:14 lead after ten minutes. The Latin American team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They posted a 31:25 halftime lead. Australia managed to narrow the gap in the third quarter. They cut the deficit at 4 points 42:46 entering the fourth frame. Australia got within striking distance in the dying minutes and eventually snatched a difficult win at the end. Matthew Hodgson (211-C-91) provided 14 points for Australia. Cameron Gliddon (196-G/F-89) delivered 11 points in the win. Francisco Cruz (191-G-89) answered with 15 points for Mexico. Israel Nolasco (205-C-89) had 12 points in the loss.

Australia: Clinton Steindl 15, Matthew Hodgson 14, Cameron Gliddon 11
Mexico: Francisco Cruz 15, Israel Nolasco 12

Standings - ABA

ABA Standings

Big V
1. Eltham W.		15-6
2. Waverley F.		15-6
3. Sherbrooke S.		13-8
4. Ringwood H.		12-9
5. Bulleen B.		12-9
6. Hume City		6-15
7. Melbourne		6-15
8. Diamond V.E.		5-16
Central ABL
1. Norwood F.		14-3
2. Forestville E.		13-5
3. Sturt S.		12-6
4. W.Adelaide B.		11-7
5. N.Adelaide R.		11-7
6. Woodville W.		9-9
7. S.Adelaide P.		7-11
8. C.District L.		5-12
9. Eastern M.		5-13
10. South.Tigers		2-16
QBL
1. Mackay M.		16-3
2. Gold Coast R.		15-3
3. Townsville H.		14-4
4. Rockhampton		12-6
5. Northside W.		11-6
6. Brisbane C.		11-7
7. Cairns M.		10-8
8. Ipswich F.		9-9
9. Bundaberg B.		9-9
10. SW Metro P.		5-12
11. Gladstone P.		5-13
12. Toowoomba		4-14
13. Maroochydore		3-15
14. Caboolture S.		2-16
SEABL-East
1. Bendigo B.		21-5
2. Knox R.		18-7
3. Kilsyth C.		16-10
4. Dandenong		12-13
5. Ballarat M.		11-15
6. Brisbane S.		10-16
7. Canberra G.		8-18
SEABL-South
1. Nunawading S.		20-6
2. Geelong S.		18-8
3. Frankston B.		14-12
4. Sandringham S.		14-12
5. Hobart C.		11-15
6. Mt Gambier		11-15
7. NW Tasmania		6-19
8. Albury W.B.		3-23
WARATAH
1. Sydney C.		19-5
2. Newcastle H.		19-5
3. Manly Warr.		15-9
4. Illawarra H.		14-9
5. Norths Bears		14-10
6. Sutherland S.		14-10
7. Hills H.		12-12
8. Maitland M.		11-13
9. Parramatta W.		10-13
10. Bankstown B.		10-14
11. Hornsby S.		9-15
12. Cent.Coast C.		5-19
13. Canberra N.		3-21

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AUSTRIA

Austria hands the first loss to the Dutch team in St. Polten - by Eurobasket News
Austria-Netherlands 77:76

Austria hands the first loss to the Dutch team in St. Polten to remain alive for the first place in Group A. The home side beat Netherlands 77:76 and improved to 3-2 record. Netherlands meanwhile is on top with 4-1 record.
It was a very important game for both sides that stayed close to each other from the start. Dan Gadzuric (211-C-78, college: UCLA) closed the first period at 21:21 and Francisco Elson (212-C-76, agency: Court Side, college: California) scored for 29:28. Van Der Horst needed three for 40:38 to send the teams to the lockers for the big break. Three times the score was tied in the third period, while Voorn nailed three for 60:52 late in the quarter. Austria however answered with 7-0 run and reduced to 60:59. Anton Maresch (192-G-91)later made two free throws for 64:62 and Davor Lamesic (205-F-83, agency: Interperformances) tied it all at 69:69. Austria led five points with a minute to go, but enjoyed just 77:76 victory.
Davor Lamesic paced all the winners with 19 points, whilst Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) collected 15 points and 12 rebounds. Anton Maresch and Jason Detrick (198-G-80, college: Oklahoma) followed them with 12 points each in a win. Francisco Elson replied with 19 points in defeat and Dan Gadzuric had 13. Jansen followed them with 12 points, whilst Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) chipped in 10.

Austria: Davor Lamesic 19, Rasid Mahalbasic 15+12 rebs, Anton Maresch 12, Jason Detrick 12
Netherlands: Francisco Elson 19, Dan Gadzuric 13, Jansen 12, Robin Smeulders 10

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AZERBAIJAN

BALTIC LEAGUE

Sakalai tab Laurynas Samenas - by Eurobasket News
Sakalai added Laurynas Samenas (192-G-88). The 22-year-old guard spent the last season in Perlas Vilnius. He tallied 6.9 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game in Baltic League. In LKL Laurynas Samenas posted 8.8 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists per appearance. The guard is not new to Sakalai. He played for the team in 2008/10 seasons. Laurynas Samenas was the member of U18 and U19 Lithuanian National Teams.

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BELIZE

Obradoiro CAB lands PG Milt Palacio - by Eurobasket News
Obradoiro CAB announced signing of a one-year deal with Milton Palacio (190-G-78, college: Colorado St.). The Belizean point guard heads to Obradoiro from Caja Laboral, where he finished last season. Palacio joined the Vitoria team in May averaging 1.7 points and 1.2 assists for 6 games. Milton Palacio started last season with the Greek team Kavala. He was one of their best players with 15.6 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 3.8 apg and 1.4 spg for 26 games. Palacio finished the season as the fourth scorer in A1. Eurobasket awarded him with All-Greek A1 League Honorable Mention -11 and he participated at the All-Star Game. Milton Palacio finished 2009/10 season also with Caja Laboral. He had 3.2 ppg, 1.1 rpg and 1.3 apg for them in 12 games. In the past, Palacio played for Partizan, Khimky Moscow, Utah Jazz, Toronto Raptors, Cleveland Cavaliers and Phoenix Suns. He also has experience from the Boston Celtics.

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BOSNIA

BRAZIL

2011 Universiade. Brazil finish tournament with win - by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Israel 65:60

Brazil registered victory on the final day of World University Games tournament. They held off Israel to claim the 13th position. Frederico Santos (91) posted 13 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort.
Brazil posted a 17:15 lead at the first break. But Israel bounced back and levelled things up at 32 at halftime. Israel pulled in front in the third quarter. They ensured a 48:41 lead heading into the fourth period. Brazil turned things around in the fourth stanza. The Latin American side erased the deficit and finished the game strongly stealing a tough win at the end. Lucas Nogueira (213-C-92) had 13 points, while Fabricio Melo (212-C-90) and Rafael Stabile (F-88) delivered 10 points apiece in the victory. Ben Rice (195-F-90) and Gilad Karni (195-F/G-87, agency: Avi Zilberman) answered with 13 points each in the loss.

Brazil: Frederico Santos 13+11 boards, Lucas Nogueira 13, Fabricio Melo 10, Rafael Stabile 10
Israel: Ben Rice 13, Gilad Karni 13

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CAMEROON

26th Afrobasket: Bakare, Adingono salute FIBA Africa - by Olusegun Ikuesan
As the 26th edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men progresses two reputable coaches have taken a critical appraisal of the championship and conclude that indeed Africa basketball is growing.

In a separate chat with FIBA Africa Coaches Ayo Bakare of Nigeria and Lazare Adingono of Cameroon says the standard of the 26th edition of Afrobasket is high compare to past edition and this they attibuted to the high work rate FIBA Africa especially its secretariat is putting to the development of basketball on the continent.

Coach Bakare says unlike in the past where only about four countries can be said to have developed a high basketball standard while teams that will progress to the last four can easily be known from the first day of the championship the same cannot be said of the 26th edition as over ten teams are good enough to lift the trophy.

The Nigeria tactician imploy FIBA Africa not to rest until the development of basketball is well spread on the continent.

Coach Bakare gave assurance that Nigeria will continue to improvement with every game and would not under-estimate any team as no team is a push-over any more.

Coach Adingono says the Golden Jubilee that FIBA Africa attain this year is worth being celebrated as the standard of basketball especially the Afrobasket is on the rise.

I am impressed with what I have seen here with teams improving with every championship, it is a thing of joy to note that I am part of the 26th edition of Afrobasket especially in the year that FIBA Africa attain fifty years.

The standard of the 2011 edition of the championship here in Madagascar is high compare what we have in the past and this is the direct effort FIBA Africa is putting into the development of basketball across Africa especially the Secretary General and members of the Secretariat staffs.

Cameroon is here to fight for the London 2012 Olympic ticket and that can also be said of other top teams here, the Cameroon coach concluded.

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CANADA

CHILE

Basketball Report: Copa Chile Champion and what's next - by Rodrigo Hunrichse
First Semester 2011, basketball brought us the new tournament 'Copa Chile', it started low, since professional teams faced amateurs. But as usual, the more attention was received in the Playoffs, specially the Finals. Those Finals were delayed while the World Championship (Under-19 Women in Los Rios Region) was played, but then the best-of-five finals started, with two games a weeked.

First weekend results:

Liceo Mixto Los Andes 89-72 Boston College Santiago, and Liceo Mixto Los Andes Los Andes 75-69 Boston College Santiago .

Second Weekend:
Saturday, Aug 13 20:00 Boston College Santiago 75-72 Liceo Mixto Los Andes
Top scorers Boston College Santiago: Eduardo Sepulveda (186-G-86):18, Jorge Valencia (206-C-77):16, Sascha Frings (200-F/C-86):15.

Top scorers Liceo: Patrick Saez (191-G/F-71):16, Franco Morales (179-G-92):14. Also remarkable is Franco Morales with 9 rebounds.

Partials: 25-20, 38-40 (13-20), 58-58 (20-18), 75-72 (17-14).

Sunday, Aug 14 18:00 Boston College Santiago 72-85 Liceo Mixto Los Andes
Top scorers Liceo: Claudio Naranjo (191-F-87):22, Patricio Briones (213-C-72, college: Dade CC):17, Patrick Saez:16.

Top scorers Boston College Santiago: Jose Luis Campos (189-G-80):19, Jorge Valencia:18, Eduardo Sepulveda:16.

Julius Holt (187-G/F-85) dissapeared with 5 points, scored 1 of 6 free throws, even when he made the fourth quarter tieing shot (68-68 with 7:49 remaining). The problem was after that: a 10-0 streak for Liceo Mixto Los Andes who never looked back. Both failed lots of chances, showing us how intense this final quarter were. Liceo Mixto Los Andes also had poor average: 12 of 21 scored free throws.

Partials: 14-23, 38-45 (24-22), 63-68 (25-23), 72-85 (9-17).

The Champion and this writer's favorite (Liceo Mixto Los Andes) demonstrated that they are (and will be) the future, after being finalists and Champions in the DIMAYOR League, the Liga B and Liga Nacional, playing decently internationally, plus promoting youngsters into the senior team, there's not much to do for other teams to beat them, since the mixture of experience and youth has proven to be successful for the last 4 years.

Next is Liga Nacional, (allegedly early September), international invitational 'Encestando una Sonrisa' (September 1-4) in Antofagasta, that will include Argentinian Aerochaco Boca Juniors Capital Feder.

The Big 4 (Liceo Mixto Los Andes, Universidad Catolica Santiago, Deportivo Espanol de Talca and Universidad de Concepcion) declared not to join the Liga Nacional, but remains to be confirmed.

The Finals are available delayed on CDO Premium, and some midnights free on telecanal.

By Rod 'Alley'Gator' Hunrichse.

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CHINA

CBA Ruling.... - by Alex Yam
So all the rumors and what ifs... are now officially done, as the CBA made the ruling final regarding banning NBA players, at least ones that have contracts for the coming season and beyond. So the CBA has officially made another mind boggling ruling, the popularity of NBA stars is unquestioned, so this is somewhat of an odd ruling, as teams apparently were generally in favor of this rule.

The CBA has never been a respected league when you hold it up to the likes of Spain, Italy, Russia etc, but this move may further push it into the abyss, as far as a worldwide respected league and stopping point for the worlds top players. In an year where the NBA is more uncertain then Wall Street, the CBA decides to implement this RIDICULOUS ruling,I mean a JOKE of a ruling, how do you want to be a relevant league in this world, and pass such a ruling, lockouts happen once in a millenium, and yet instead of grabbing this by the horns, the CBA has been left behind in the dust, yet again..

China Loses Third Straight to Duke - by Arthur Volbert
China's Junior National Team lost its third straight game to Duke University today 93-78. China was able to beat Duke's reserves but could not keep up when Duke's starting lineup was on the floor.

China trailed 30-16 after one quarter, 49-40 at the half and 70-59 after three quarters. This Duke team is in the NCAA top 25 but is very unlikely to make it to the final four. Austin Rivers is very much a freshman and there is no 2012 lottery pick on this team.

So China's top Under-23 players -- minus a few on the senior national team -- should have been able to beat this team handily, yet they were not. They showed little toughness and Duke was able to turn it on any time the margin dropped to single figures. The best Chinese player today was Shanxi's Duan JiangPeng (197-F-90). He showed some nice outside shooting, athletic ability and was, unlike many Chinese players, able to hit free throws. But, born in 1990, he was dropped from the senior team early-on. Maybe they should bring him back to replace the injured Wang Shipeng. At least he has some offense.

The ESPN announcers corrected themselves and stated that Wang Zhelin was 17 rather than 19, but with Chinese players one never knows. At 17 Wang is highly promising. At 19 he is somewhat less promising. But only Zhong Cheng looks like he enjoys the weight room and the team sorely lacks strength and toughness. Unfortunately he fancies himself as a three-point shooter, as he did with Jilin, and while he probably can hit shots all day in practice he has difficulty hitting them in game situations. If he would stay inside he could be a force. Unlike in earlier years, the Chinese are now playing basketball the international way. But they have a long way to go before they start doing it well.

2011 Universiade. South Korea nip China in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
China - South Korea 87:88

South Korea stole a narrow win over China on the final day of World University Games in Shenzhen. Five players scored in double figures to lead South Korea to the victory. They thus claimed the 17th place at the tournament.
South Korea were well in control throughout the opening quarter. They posted a 28:16 lead after ten minutes. But the hosts stopped the rot and narrowed the deficit in the second frame. China got as close as three points at the interval 41:44. South Korea kept their opponents at distance in the third frame. China faced a 5-point deficit into the fourth quarter. The home team trimmed the distance to just three points with under three minutes to go. But Jaehyun Park and Lee Jung-Hyun (190-F-87) sealed the victory for South Korea. Kim Mingoo (188-G-91) posted 17 points, while Choi Bu Kyung (200-F-89) delivered 16 points in the victory. Ling Chang (206-F-88) and Ren JunFei (204-C-90) answered with 20 points each for China.

China: Ling Chang 20, Ren JunFei 20+12 boards
South Korea: Kim Mingoo 17, Choi Bu Kyung 16, Lee Jung-Hyun 15

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CROATIA

Krizevci gets Roko Jurlina and Ivan Buva on loan - by Eurobasket News
Krizevci got two young players for the next season. The team agreed a one-year loan with Roko Jurlina (188-G-93) and Ivan Buva (207-C-91).
Roko Jurlina is originally a member of Zadar. He played for Pet Bunara Zagreb on loan last season. They competed in A2. Jurlina is active member of the U18 Croatian National Team. In 2009, he also played for U16 Croatia.
Ivan Buva is a player of Cedevita. He also spent last season on loan as well, but as a member of Mladost Zagreb (A2). Buva played for the Croatian U20 National Team this summer. He had 3.9 ppg and 3.3 rpg for 9 games at the European Championships U20 in Bilbao. He also played for U18 Croatia in the past.

New players for Jolly JBS! - by Dani Erceg
After signatures of Petani, Vrsaljko and Rezic, newcomer in Croatian A1 League signed 2 more players, Neven Zeravica (205-C-88) and Luka Katura (194-G-89). Zeravica spent last four seasons in US colleges Citadel and West Virginia Wesleyan. Katura came from Croatian A2 team Rudes Zagreb, in past seasons played also for KK Zabok and Velika Gorica.

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CYPRUS

Cyprus-Czech Republic 49:74 - by Dr. Nasios Orinos
Czech Republic wins Group C of Division B after the road win over Cyprus in Nicosia. The favorites of the group needed 74:49 for 5-0 record and will have one more game at home against Switzerland in August 24th.

It was not a sweet start for the favorites of the group that trailed in the first period. Theocharides gave Cyprus 14:9 and Koronides brought 18:11. Only in the middle of the second frame Tomas Pomikalek tied it all at 19:19 and Sirina scored for 37:26 at the halftime. Czech Republic added 16-8 in the third stanza for 19-point advantage entering the last quarter. Lubos Barton scored five points in a row to open the final period at 58:34 and Hampl later brought the last points for the guests.

Lukas Kotas and Lubos Barton stepped up with 13 points each, as the latter also grabbed 12 boards. Pavel Slezak and Tomas Pomikalek followed them with 11 points apiece.

Great game by Christodoulos Kaskiris (206-C/F-79). Even though he did not score much, he fought well under the basket. He finished with 4 points and grabbed 4 rebounds.

Cyprus: Panagiotis Trisokkas 14, Georgios Neophytou 7, Aristides Koronidis 7, Vassilis Kounas 7
Czech Republic: Lukas Kotas 13, Lubos Barton 13+12 rebs, Pavel Slezak 11, Tomas Pomikalek 11

Source: Eurobasket News

Another signing for the blues - by Michael Aristidou
Pizza Express Primetel Apollon has signed another EU player for next season. Particularly they sign up Bulgarian center Krum Doychinov (206-C-86, agency: Interperformances). The player was in Balkan Botevgrad last season having 8ppg and 5rpg.

Pizza Express Primetel Apollon now is looking for another two Americans and a couple EU players more to complet their squad for next season. They already sign swedish guard
Erik Rush (195-G-88, college: Montana St.) and american forward Jordan Collins (208-F-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) so far.

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Czech Republic wins Group C of Division B - by Eurobasket News
Cyprus-Czech Republic 49:74

Czech Republic wins Group C of Division B after the road win over Cyprus in Nicosia. The favorites of the group needed 74:49 for 5-0 record and will have one more game at home against Switzerland in August 24th. Cyprus meanwhile suffered the fifth straight loss.
It was not a sweet start for the favorites of the group that trailed in the first period. Theocharides gave Cyprus 14:9 and Koronides brought 18:11. Only in the middle of the second frame Tomas Pomikalek (200-F-89) tied it all at 19:19 and Sirina scored for 37:26 at the halftime. Czech Republic added 16-8 in the third stanza for 19-point advantage entering the last quarter. Lubos Barton (202-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso) scored five points in a row to open the final period at 58:34 and Hampl later brought the last points for the guests.
Lukas Kotas (194-F-84) and Lubos Barton stepped up with 13 points each, as the latter also grabbed 12 boards. Pavel Slezak (186-G-84) and Tomas Pomikalek followed them with 11 points apiece. Panagiotis Trisokkas (206-C-80) ended up with 14 points in the losing effort, while Georgios Neophytou (193-G-83), Aristides Koronidis and Vassilis Kounas (195-G-84) brought 7 each.

Cyprus: Panagiotis Trisokkas 14, Georgios Neophytou 7, Aristides Koronidis (188-G-82) 7, Vassilis Kounas 7
Czech Republic: Lukas Kotas 13, Lubos Barton 13+12 rebs, Pavel Slezak 11, Tomas Pomikalek 11

2011 Universiade. Czech Republic fire down Japan - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic - Japan 94:81

Czech Republic ended their World University Games campaign with victory. They toppled Japan to clinch the 11th overall position. Patrik Auda (205-F-89) stepped up with 27 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort.
The teams got to a flying start. They traded baskets eagerly throughout the opening frame. Japan eked out a 29:28 lead after ten minutes. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the second frame. Czech Republic gained a narrow 47:44 lead at the interval. The Czech team finally cleared off in the third stanza. The Europeans arrived at the final pause up by 10 points 68:58. Czech Republic unloaded 26 points in the fourth period and rolled to the victory at the end. Tomas Macela (179-G-88) and Vojtech Hruban (200-F-89) delivered 15 points apiece in the win. Kosuke Kanamaru (193-F/G-89) answered with 17 points for Japan. Ruymo Ono (197-F/C-88) had 14 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.

Czech Republic: Patrik Auda 27, Tomas Macela 15, Vojtech Hruban 15+11 boards
Japan: Kosuke Kanamaru 17, Ruymo Ono 14

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D-LEAGUE

Eric Musselman named coach of D-League LA D-Fenders - by Karol
By JANIE McCAULEY, AP Sports Writer
Eric Musselman 's basketball career has come full circle back to Southern California.
Musselman is the new coach of the Los Angeles D-Fenders, the D-League affiliate of the Los Angeles Los Angeles Lakers.
The team made the announcement Thursday. Musselman, former Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings head coach, has now worked in some capacity for every NBA franchise in California. He began in the Clippers organization. Musselman is currently coaching the Venezuelan National Team and using crutches for an Achilles injury.
'I remember growing up in San Diego and going to sleep listening to Chick Hearn do Los Angeles Lakers games on the radio and was a die-hard Lakers fan as a young kid,' Musselman said in an email from Argentina, where his team was set to play Cuba on Thursday night. 'How many San Diego kids get a chance to work for four pro organizations in California? I feel blessed to be able to work in the state we as a family love so much.'
The D-Fenders are returning to the D-League this season following a one-year hiatus. Musselman spent last season with the Reno Bighorns affiliate of the Warriors and Kings and guided them to the D-League playoffs after they won the Western Conference.
'He has vast experiences in both the NBA and NBA Development League and will be a great addition to our franchise,' team President Joey Buss said in a statement. 'I look forward to working with Eric and having a successful season.'
The 46-year-old Musselman has a proven track record in the game's minor leagues.
Musselman went 270-122 during seven years as head coach of the Continental Basketball Association's Florida Beach Dogs. From 1990 through 1997, Musselman had 24 players called up to the NBA, the highest number in the league during that span.
'I can't wait to get started,' Musselman said.
The Kings fired Musselman in April 2007 after a 33-49 season. He led the Warriors from 2002-04. Golden State fired him after the franchise missed the playoffs for the 10th straight year in his second season at the helm. Golden State went 37-45 in his final season and he led the Warriors to 38 victories in his first year.
After being dismissed by the Warriors, Musselman spent two seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies as an assistant under Mike Fratello .
His first NBA coaching experience came with the Minnesota Timberwolves under his late father, Bill, in 1990-91. Musselman also worked as an assistant coach for the Atlanta Hawks under Lon Kruger and as an assistant for the Orlando Magic under Chuck Daly and Doc Rivers .
Musselman played for the University of San Diego, helping the team reach the NCAA tournament two times.

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EUROCUP

Gran Canaria land Rasual Butler - by Eurobasket News
Rasual Butler (201-F-79, college: La Salle) will continue his career in Spain. The forward has agreed on terms of contract with Gran Canaria. Last season Rasual Butler started in the Los Angeles Clippers. The forward posted 5.0 points and 1.9 rebounds per game. In February Rasual Butler moved to Chicago. He averaged 2.4 points per game for the Bulls. Previously Rasual Butler had stints with the New Orleans Hornets, Miami Heat.

Aris Thessaloniki land Sergio Kerusch - by Eurobasket News
Sergio Kerusch (195-F) will start his pro career in Greece. The forward has agreed on terms of contract with Aris. The deal is meant for three seasons. Sergio Kerusch graduated from the Western Kentucky University. The forward posted 15.6 points and 7.9 rebounds per game in his senior season. Sergio Kerusch was named into All-Sun Belt 1st Team. He also made it into NABC Division I All-District 24 1st Team.

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EUROLEAGUE

Banvit signs big guy Cemal Nalga - by Eurobasket News
Banvit announced signing of a two-year deal with Turkish big guy Cemal Nalga (213-C-87, agency: Beo Basket). The 23-year-old Nalga heads to Banvit from Lietuvos Rytas, where he spent last season. He appeared 14 times in Euroleague with them averaging 5.6 points and 3.2 rebounds. Rytas reached Top16 and was very close to Quarterfinals. In Lithuanian league, Nalga added 2.8 ppg and 2.1 rpg. He also had 3.9 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 9 games in VTB league. Cemal Nalga split 2009/10 season between Galatasaray and ALBA Berlin. He helped ALBA to reach the EuroCup Finals. Nalga spent almost four years with Galata and before that played for Tuborg. He also was a member of the Turkish National team in 2008 and 2009.

Buducnost gets bigger with Nikola Vucevic - by Eurobasket News
Buducnost announced signing of a one-year deal with Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90, college: USC). The Montenegrin big guy heads to Buducnost for his first professional season. He graduated at the University of Southern California few months ago. Vucevic had 17.1 ppg, 10.3 rpg and 1.6 apf for his school as a senior. He was selected as 16th overall pick by Philadelphia 76ers at the latest NBA Draft. Nikola Vucevic is active member of the Montenegrin National Team. He will play for them at the EuroBasket in Lithuania. In the past, Vucevic was a member of U20 Montenegro. He shined at the European Championships U20 in Rhodos two years ago. For 8 games at this event Vucevic exploded with 15.5 ppg, 10.8 rpg and 1.9 bpg. Before his move to the USA, Vucevic played for Mornar Bar.

Lazaros Papadopoulos has agreed with Olympiakos - by Giorgos Diploidis
Lazaros Papadopoulos (210-C-80) will finally be the center for that Dusan Ivkovic was looking for Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus The Greek player will replace Ioannis Bourousis who decided to leave the Greek team for Italy and Armany Milano. Papadopoulos the last 1.5 year in Greece was at PAOK then he decided to go at Russia in BC Khimky Moscow Region

The team of Piraeus will be his fourth team in Greece (Iraklis, Panathinaikos, PAOK). In The Russian league had 4.2 ppg and 4.3 rppg in 25 matches.

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Ali Traore replaces Turiaf in French NT - by Eurobasket News
Ali Traore (207-C-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) will replace injured Ronny Turiaf (208-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) in the French National Team. The former ProA MVP got a call and immediately joined the team. Turiaf broke a bone on his left hand while representing France against Great Britain in a Tuesday exhibition match in London in preparation for the upcoming EuroBasket tournament. Ali Traore recently signed a deal with Lokomotiv Kuban for the next season. The French National Team player heads to Russia from Lottomatica Virtus Roma, where he spent last season. For 30 games in SerieA he averaged 10 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals. Traore also added 9.5 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 15 Euroleague games. He helped Lottomatica to reach the Top 16. From 2008 until the last summer Traore played for ASVEL. He exploded with 15.6 ppg, 5 rpg and 1.4 apg for 30 games in ProA 2009/10. He was named MVP of the championship. That season Traore led ASVEL to French Cup trophy. He also had 14.5 ppg and 5.4 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. In the past, Traore already spent few years with ASVEL.

Antoine Diot to miss EuroBasket 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Another bad news for the French National Team and their Head Coach Vincent Collet. After Yannick Bokolo (personal reasons), Mickael Pietrus (knee) and Ronny Turiaf, who broke his left hand last Tuesday, Collet will not be able to count on Antoine Diot (191-G-89). The French point guard injured his back and will not be able to help the team in Lithuania. It is not announced yet who will replace Diot for the upcoming EuroBasket. It could be Fabien Causeur (193-G-87).
Antoine Diot spent last four years with Le Mans. He had 8 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 3.7 apg and 2.1 spg for 30 French league games last season. Diot also added 9.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 3.6 apg for 12 games in EuroCup. Diot helped Le Mans to win French Cup in 2009. They also celebrated in Semaine des As that year. Antoine Diot played for France at the EuroBasket 2009 in Poland. He averaged 5.1 points and 1.9 rebounds for 8 games at this event.

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FINLAND

2011 Universiade. Finland prevail against Romania to clinch 7th spot - by Eurobasket News
Finland - Romania 76:69

Finland celebrated the victory on the final day of the World University Games in Shenzhen. They overcame Romania to clinch the seventh overall position. Antti Kanervo (193-G/F-89) scored 21 points to pace the winners.
Finland jumped ahead early in the encounter and ensured 23:20 lead at the first break. The teams stayed close throughout the second quarter. Finland hung on to establish a 39:38 halftime lead. Romania denied the deficit late in the third quarter. They drew things level at 55 heading into the fourth period. Vlad Moldoveanu (207-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances, college: American) put Romania in front 67:65 with three minutes to go in regulation. But Roope Ahonen (187-PG-90, agency: FCM) stepped up with nine points in the reminder of the contest carrying Finland to the victory. He finished with 20 points, while Matti Nuutinen (200-F-90) added 11 points in the win. Titus Nicoara (202-F-88, agency: Interperformances) answered with 18 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for Romania. Vlad Moldoveanu delivered 17 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Finland: Antti Kanervo 21, Roope Ahonen 20, Matti Nuutinen 11
Romania: Titus Nicoara 18+10 boards, Vlad Moldoveanu 17+11 boards

KORISLIIGA: Justin Howard next to Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen
American Center Justin Howard (208-C-81, college: Mercer) and Korihait (Uusikaupunki) have signed a contract for coming 2011-12 season. Howard has played pro basketball in seven (7!) different countries by now:Mexico, Argentina, Chile, France, Syria, Germany and Spain. Last two seasons Howard has played in LEB-Silver League in Spain. Howard averaged last season 10,5 ppg - 6,9 rpg on BC River Andorra roster. Korihait has signed earlier with Americans Shawn Vanzant (182-G, college: Butler) and Nigel Moore (195-F/G-81, agency: TSS Management, college: Alabama A&M).

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FRANCE

Antoine Diot to miss EuroBasket 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Another bad news for the French National Team and their Head Coach Vincent Collet. After Yannick Bokolo (personal reasons), Mickael Pietrus (knee) and Ronny Turiaf, who broke his left hand last Tuesday, Collet will not be able to count on Antoine Diot (191-G-89). The French point guard injured his back and will not be able to help the team in Lithuania. It is not announced yet who will replace Diot for the upcoming EuroBasket. It could be Fabien Causeur (193-G-87).
Antoine Diot spent last four years with Le Mans. He had 8 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 3.7 apg and 2.1 spg for 30 French league games last season. Diot also added 9.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 3.6 apg for 12 games in EuroCup. Diot helped Le Mans to win French Cup in 2009. They also celebrated in Semaine des As that year. Antoine Diot played for France at the EuroBasket 2009 in Poland. He averaged 5.1 points and 1.9 rebounds for 8 games at this event.

Ali Traore replaces Turiaf in French NT - by Eurobasket News
Ali Traore (207-C-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) will replace injured Ronny Turiaf (208-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) in the French National Team. The former ProA MVP got a call and immediately joined the team. Turiaf broke a bone on his left hand while representing France against Great Britain in a Tuesday exhibition match in London in preparation for the upcoming EuroBasket tournament. Ali Traore recently signed a deal with Lokomotiv Kuban for the next season. The French National Team player heads to Russia from Lottomatica Virtus Roma, where he spent last season. For 30 games in SerieA he averaged 10 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals. Traore also added 9.5 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 15 Euroleague games. He helped Lottomatica to reach the Top 16. From 2008 until the last summer Traore played for ASVEL. He exploded with 15.6 ppg, 5 rpg and 1.4 apg for 30 games in ProA 2009/10. He was named MVP of the championship. That season Traore led ASVEL to French Cup trophy. He also had 14.5 ppg and 5.4 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. In the past, Traore already spent few years with ASVEL.

France edge Serbia to win London Invitational Tournament - by Eurobasket News
France - Serbia 80:77

France registered the fifth straight win at London Invitational Tournament. They thus finished the tourney undefeated. France held off Serbia on the final day of action. Tony Parker (183-PG-80) fired 24 points, grabbed 6 boards and issued 3 assists in the victory.
France capped the opening period on a 9:2 run to build a 25:18 lead. Les Bleus took over completely in the second term. Mickael Gelabale (201-F-83) knocked down 9 points as France posted a 48:31 lead at the interval. Noah opened a 21-point lead for France midway through the third term. Les Bleus entered the final quarter ahead by as many as 19 points 68:49. Serbia tipped off the fourth frame on a frantic 23:3 rally to put their noses in front 72:71. The teams exchanged baskets for some time before Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) and Tony Parker sealed the victory for Les Bleus. Nicolas Batum provided 14 points, while Mickael Gelabale and Nando De Colo (202-G-87) accounted for 11 points apiece in the victory. Kosta Perovic (217-C-85) answered with 14 points for Serbia. Aleksandar Rasic (195-G-84, agency: Beo Basket) had 11 points in the loss.

France: Tony Parker 24, Nicolas Batum 14, Mickael Gelabale 11, Nando De Colo 11
Serbia: Kosta Perovic 14, Aleksandar Rasic 11

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FYR MACEDONIA

FYR Macedonia wins the home tournament in Skopje - by Eurobasket News
FYR Macedonia-New Zealand 68:67

FYR Macedonia wins the home tournament after a thrilling win over New Zealand. The hosts added the second victory at the tournament to triumph with 68:67 victory.
FYR Macedonia started better and reached 24:20 advantage at the end of the first period. Lester McCalebb scored for 38:31 and Todor Gechevski (209-C-77, agency: Interperformances) closed the half at 42:37. The latter brought the biggest lead in the game at 49:38, but New Zealand did not give up. Alex Pledger tied the game at 53:53 and Michael Fitchett made the same at 55:55. In the final stanza the Tall Blacks gained the lead by four but the home side came back and with the score at 67:66 with 30 seconds on the clock BJ Anthony missed two free throws. Macedonians moved into the lead 68:67, while Lindsay Tait (194-G-82, agency: Impact Basketball) missed a shot from halfway to win the game.
Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 16 points, while Lester McCalebb and Todor Gechevski scored 12 each. Thomas Abercrombie (198-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Washington St.) ended up with 12 points, while Lindsay Tait had 11 in defeat. Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) and Corey Webster (185-G-88, college: Lambuth) followed them with 10 points apiece.

FYR Macedonia: Pero Antic 16, Lester McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) 12 Todor Gechevski 12
New Zealand: Thomas Abercrombie 12, Lindsay Tait 11, Kirk Penney 10, Corey Webster 10

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GEORGIA

Greg Stiemsma heads to Sokhumi - by Eurobasket News
According to Sportando, Gregory Stiemsma (211-C-85, agency: N.E.T., college: Wisconsin) will continue his career in Georgia. The American big gut penned a deal with Sokhumi Tbilisi for the next season. Stiemsma spent the last one in Turkey. He appeared 29 times for Turk Telekom Ankara averaging 6 points, 4 rebounds and 1.8 blocks. He also added 6.6 ppg and 5.6 rpg for 5 games in EuroChallenge. Gregory Stiemsma played for the Sioux Falls Skyforce in 2009/10. In 47 D-League games he had 9.1 ppg, 7.3 rpg and 3.7 bpg. Stiemsma split his first season as a pro between Oyak Renault and Korean Soul SK Knights. He graduated at the University of Wisconsin three years ago. They reached NCAA Sweet 16.

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GERMANY

John Wolosinczuk Heads Back To The States - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO B team SSV Lok Bernau have announced that John Wolosinczuk (200-F, college: W.Liberty St.) will not play for the club this season. John Wolosinczuk (200-F, college: W.Liberty St.) would have started his professional basketball career in Germany, but got second thoughts. Wolosinczuk is a 23 year old 200cm forward from Akron, Ohio that played at : W.Liberty St. (NCAA2) from 2007-2011. 'The decision of him going has to do with home sickness. He told me his decision had nothing to do with the team or thesurrounding, since we had helped him the last weeks getting used to the area. Talks with him this past weekend were unable for him to remain', stressed SSV Lok bernau manager Thomas Schonhoff. The club now is looking for a replacement.

Source:: SSV Lok Bernau

The Rapid Miles Basketball Exchange With Jacob Burtschi (CAI Zaragoza) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Jacob Burtschi (198-F-84, college: Air Force) is a 27 year old 198cm forward from Chickasha, Oklahoma who will be playing his second professional basketball season in the best basketball league in Europe the ACB in Spain this seasonfor CAI Zaragoza. He completed his rookie season for Phoenix Hagen averaging 14.2ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.5apg, Steals-3 (1.5spg), FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 82.2%. He played at the Air Force from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 35 games averaging 13.5ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 49.7%, 3Pts: 39.0%, FT: 77.3%. He had offers to play in the NBA, but served in the Air Force the last three years and could only play club ball. Some achievements that he got in the NCAA were All-MWC Honorable Mention -05, MWC Regular Season Runner-Up -06, All-MWC 2nd Team -06, 07, NABC All-NCAA District 13 2nd Team -07, and NIT Final Four -07. He spoke to eurobasket about his season in Germany and his future in Spain.

Congrats on the getting a job in the best European league ACB with CAI Zaragoza. For a guy who didnt play for 3 years and then played in Germany and made the jump to the ACB, you can be extremly happy. Were you surprised to land in the ACB despite your history and so many good players in the world?

Thank you. I am very pleased with how things have progressed and excited for the next opportunity in Spain. I was a bit surprised, but its all about finding the right situation at the right time and I felt that is what I did.

I am sure you had some offers from the BEKO BBL. Was the ACB a no brainer? Would you even have gone if a Beko BBL team had offered more money?

The ACB is very hard to walk away from. Its always about finding the right team and there were a few teams in the BBL that would have been great fits, but this opportunity with Zaragoza was too tough to turn down.

Last season with Phoenix Hagen you played 33 games: 14.2ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.5apg, Steals-3 (1.5spg), FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 82.2%. What was the most important thing that you improved your game in the time period from August to May?

I would say my rebounding and free throw %. I had a lot of rust at the beginning of the year after sitting out 3 years.

Where is your 2011 Beko BBL three point shot award? What is your nicest memory from this event?

Mom has it up on a mantel in the living room. I told her to take it down because the oldest news is yesterdays hero's. While I am proud of my accomplishment, that year is over and I am looking to add more hardware to my collection.

Who was your toughest opponent in the Beko BBL last season?

Bamberg was definitely the toughest. They were stacked from the #1 guy to their #12 guy. They were prepared 100% against us. A top notch organization.

What will you miss most from Germany this season when you are balling in Spain?

I would say being around more American players. Not as many in Spain.

Your ex teammate Mark Dorris will be playing in Ludwigsburg this season. Will he be able to make a further step in his basketball career this season?

Mark has always just needed the opportunity to showcase what he can do. and I believe moving to Ludwigsburg will further his career.

CAI Zaragoza is packed with very talented players. With all due respect to your abilities, do you see yourself of having a chance of getting more than 10 minutes this season?

I hope so. I know I will have a lot of things to prove, but I am here to help Zaragoza out in anyway. whether its 25 minutes a game or 5 minutes a game. I just want to contribute.

There are ex NBA players like Bracey Wright and Robert Archibald on your team. Will you be in awe very long or will you be your competitive self quickly?

I dont believe I will be in awe but there is a lot I can learn from guys as talented and experienced as them. I am always competitve no matter who I play with. Its in my blood.

Which player in the ACB are you looking forward the most to playing against?

I cant say there is one player in particular. I am looking forward to just competing night in and night out with those guys.

What was your reaction when you heard that Ron Artest changed his name to World Peace?

I could care less what he changes his name too. Him and guys like Ochocinco are just wanting attention. it is what it is.

Why do so many basketball players like the TV series Entourage?

Everybody wants to be Vincent Chase and have an agent like Ari Gold. Its plain and simple.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

She's out of my league

Thanks Jacob for the chat

BG Karlsruhe Bring In Mario Boggan And Kendaris Pelton For Tryout - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Since last Friday, PRO A team BG Karlsruhe have two centers on board for a try out. Boggan Mario (200-F/C-83, college: Oklahoma St.) and Kendaris Pelton (198-F-84, college: Martin Methodist) will be fighting for the center job and try to convince the club in practices and exhibition games of their abilties. 'Both guys are showbags. Both are nice guys that have shown in the past that they can play basketball. We will have to wait and see what they can bring to the table.This will be a challenge for us that we want to take on. We will work hard to bring both into the right form', added BG Karlsruhe head coach Tino Stumpf. Boggan is a 27 year old 200cm power forward/center from Durham,North Carolina that weights 131 kilos. He played at Oklahoma St. (NCAA)and in his senior year played 34 games: ScoreBig12-3 (19.0ppg), RebBig12-6 (7.6rpg), 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGPBig12-3 (54.0%), 3PT: 22.0%, FT: 76.1%: Finished two-year career at Oklahoma State ranked 23rd all-time in scoring (1,135 points) and fourth all-time in career field goal percentage (.557). He turned professional in 2007 and got experience in Europe an dthe States playing for with Spotter Leuven (Belgium-D1, starting five): 13 games: 14.4ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 80.0%, released in Dec.'07, in Jan.'08 signed by Darussafaka Istanbul (Turkey-TBL, starting five) but never showed up, in Feb.'08 tested by Polpak Swiecie (Poland-DBE, starting five), released in Feb.'08, then joined Anaheim Arsenal (D-League): 6 games: 1.2ppg, 1.2rpg FG: 3-7, FT: 1-2, in March '08 moved to Rio Grande Valley Vipers (D-League), but DNP. In 2008-2009, he played for Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves (Portugal-UZO Liga, starting five), left in Oct.'08, in Dec.'08 moved to East Kentucky Miners (CBA)and later played for the Taiwan Mobile Clouded Leopards (Taiwan-SBL, starting five). Kendaris Pelton is a 27 yera old 198cm forward from troy, alabama. He doesnt have as much experience as Boggard, but played at Chipola JC (JUCO) and then transfered to S.Mississippi (NCAA in 2005-2006 playing 7 games: 2.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 28.6%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 50.0%. His last station was the San Francisco Rumble (ABA)in 2008-2009. 'Both guys give us added deepnes to the roster which we can compensate well with injuries or sicknesses', stressed Tino Stumpf.

Source: BG Karlsruhe

2011 Universiade. USA outlast Germany, clinch 5th position - by Eurobasket News
USA - Germany 86:83

USA wrapped up their World University Games campaign with victory. They held off Germany in a thrilling battle to occupy the fifth overall position. Trevor Mbakwe (6'8''-F-89) stepped up with 21 points and 8 rebounds to pace the winners.
USA and Germany traded baskets throughout close first quarter. The lead changed hands before Germany posted a 21:19 lead after ten minutes. The European team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. Germany arrived at halftime up by a single point 41:40. Jamychal Green (6'9''-F-90) scored 10 points in the third frame allowing USA to take a 64:61 lead heading into the fourth frame. Trevor Mbakwe helped the United States build an 11-point lead midway through the fourth stanza. Johannes Lischka (6'8''-F/C-87) drained a pair of triples late in regulation as Germany got within three points but USA stayed calm as Gibbs and Trevor Mbakwe sealed the winning outcome from the charity stripe. John Jenkins (6'4''-G-91) scored 15 points, while Jamychal Green added 12 points for the winners. Johannes Lischka responded with 28 points for Germany. Bastian Doreth (6'0''-G-89) notched 12 points in the loss.

USA: Trevor Mbakwe 21, John Jenkins 15, Jamychal Green 12
Germany: Johannes Lischka 28, Bastian Doreth 12

Jason Boucher moves from Gotha to Dresden - by Moritz Korff
Jason Boucher (180-G-80, college: Grand Valley St.) has signed a contract to play for the Dresden Titans (1. Regionalliga South-East) in the upcoming campaign. The 31-year-old guard scored 15.6 points per contest for the Gotha Rockets in this past Pro B season. Boucher has previously played for Weiden and Landsberg in the RLSO. In 2009 he received Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga South-East Second Team honors and was named All-RLSO Honorable Mention one year later.

Sumner and Montgomery in Giessen - by Moritz Korff
Danny Sumner (201-F-87, college: William & Mary) and Trey Montgomery (193-G-87) have joined the VfB Giessen Pointers (2. Bundesliga Pro B). They are currently working out with the team, trying to land a contract for the 2011-12 season.
Sumner is a 23-year-old forward from Elizabethtown, Kentucky. He graduated from the College of William & Mary (NCAA Division 1) in 2010. During the 2010-11 season he spent some time with the Halifax Rainmen of the PBL.
Montgomery hails from Destrehan, Louisiana. He can play on both guard positions. He completed his NCAA career at Division 1 school Samford last year.

Grevenbroich Elephants add Norvegian guard - by Moritz Korff
The Grevenbroich Elephants (1. Regionalliga West) have added Thomas Ble (186-G-89) to their roster for the upcoming season. The 22-year-old native of Oslo, Norway comes off a very successful season in the second Norvegian division. He played 20 games for the Centrum Tigers Oslo and averaged 21.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.6 steals and 2.9 assists per contest, while being named the league's Guard of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. Ble is a former Norvegian junior international and left his mark in the country's first league as well. In 2007-08 at Ammerud and in 2009-2010 at Harstad he scored around 15 points a game in the BLNO.

Konrad Tota back in Germany, joins UBC Muenster - by Moritz Korff
UBC Muenster (1. Regionalliga West) has completed the signing of 31-year-old veteran Konrad Tota (195-F-80, college: Dickinson St.). The Polish wing, who grew up in Canada, returns to Germany after two and a half years in Iceland. In 2005-06 Tota suited up for the Chemnitz Niners and spent two seasons with the Dresden Titans afterwards. During the 2010-11 season he scored close to 23 points per contest for Thor AK of Iceland and received Eurobasket.com Icelandic D1 All-Bosman Player of the Year honors.

Aaron Cook (MBC) I Am In Love With The Full Court Bounce Pass! - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Aaron Cook (186-G-83, college: Hartford) is a 27 year old 183cm guard from Randallstown, Maryland. He will be starting his first season in the German PRO A for the Mitteldeutscher BC. He played at Hartford (NCAA) from 2002-2006. He played a total of 114 NCAA games and in his senior year played 28 games: 16.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.5apg, 1.6spg, FG: 41.9%, 3PT: 39%, FT: 76.6%. In 2006-2007, he started his professional basketball career in the States for the Butte Daredevils (CBA) 35 games: 13.7ppg, 3.5rpg, Assists-2 (6.4apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 71.6%. In 2007-2008, he moved to Europe to play for Atlas Stal Ostrow Wielkopolski (Poland-DBE, starting five): 10 games: 5.5ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP-3 (64.7%), 3PT: 44.0%, in Dec.'08 moved to Gothia Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) 18 games: 12.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.9apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 59.1%. In 2008-2009, he played for the Vermont Frost Heaves (PBL, starting five): 17 games: 10.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 73.5%. Last season, he played for the Cuxhaven BasCats (Germany-ProA, starting five): 15 games: 17.2ppg, 4.9rpg, Assists-1 (6.6apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 73.0%.He spoke to Eurobasket about basketballand MBC.

You will be starting your 6th professional basketball season. How was the signing process this season? The market has gotten alot tougher in last years. Did you have many more offers than just MBC?

The signing process i thought went well for me. I am happy with the outcome. I had drew some BBL attention but didnt receive any offers

You had a stellar season with Cuxhaven avergaing 17.2ppg, 4.9rpg, Assists-1 (6.6apg), 1.6spg. Are you a bit dissappointed that you didnt get a chnace by a beko BBl team in Germany?

Yes I was a little disappointed. But I cant control how the market works. I can only continue to work hard and try to take full advantage of every situation that is presented to me.

What was the main reason for you signing with the Mitteldeutscher BC? What convinced you that this was the right team?

I know that MBC has a history of being a competitive BBL organization that is looking to move up right away. And I ve also heard some good things about the organizations professionalism and Coaching staff. So I thought it could possibly be a good situation for me.

Besides helping MBC move up what are your personal goals? You had a great season last year any pressure of improving those stats?

To be honest my personal goals is simply to improve my game. As long as I feel that I am a better player than last season that is all that really matters to me. And as far as stats are concerned I dont feel any pressure to improve them. I dont think this will be a situation like last season where I am depended upon so heavily.

What do you know about the career of coach Silvano Poropat? What is your first impression of him?

My first impression of Coah Poropat was that he is passionate about winning ball games.

How excited are you about playing with Darius Hargrove? He has a lot of European experience and you guys should make a devestating guard duo on the floor?

I am very excited to play with Darius Hargrove. I ve heard good things about him and I am looking forward to teaming up with him.

What is a strength in your game that doesnt always get noticed right away?

A strength in my game that I think can go unnoticed at times is my defense. I really take pride on that end of the court but at times I think it can get over looked.

You are known for your assist talent. If you could prepare the perfect assist dish, how would that food dish combined with the perfect pass look like? lol

The perfect assist scenario would be me catching an outlet pass from my big man and with out taking any dribbles throw a full court bounce pass. Ever since I saw Magic throw the full court bounce pass Ive been in love with it. Just throwing a full court bouce pass for a dunk

On what things do you still need to work on your game which you will be doing in the gym?

When working out I try to cover every aspect of being a point guard. But lately I have been focusing on pulling up when getting into the lane.

You played last season at Cuxhaven with young German Anthony Canty. How far can Canty get as a professional? What importnat tips did you give him?

I think Tony has a bright future. He has a really high basketball IQ and understands how to play the game. The only advice that I had for Tony throughout the season was to get into the weight room and just simply to work hard and take full advantage of every situation

Who won a one on one in practice last season you or Jackson Capel? How would you beat him?

Me and Jackson never played a game of one on one last season but I will say that he beat me in a number of shooting games. lol

This will be your second season in germany. What do you like most about the country Germany?

Schnitzel. Had it for the first time last season. Feel in Love with it. Also like the fan support. The Germans are really serious about their basketball.

You played 4 years at Hartford. What is your sweetest memory on the court at Hartford?

My sweetest moment at Hartford was when I scored 40 pts. I never made it to the tourney so I would have to say that

Who was the toughest competitor that you faced in the NCAA that is in the NBA now? How did you play against him?

I would have to say Rodney Brewer. His length caused me problems. I didnt play as well as I know I was capable of

What is your opinion of Ron Artest chnaging his name to World Peace?

Haha. If thats how he feels at the moment and its positive, Im all for it.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw.

Pinnapple Express.

Thanks Aaron for the chat.

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GREECE

Aris Thessaloniki land Sergio Kerusch - by Eurobasket News
Sergio Kerusch (195-F) will start his pro career in Greece. The forward has agreed on terms of contract with Aris. The deal is meant for three seasons. Sergio Kerusch graduated from the Western Kentucky University. The forward posted 15.6 points and 7.9 rebounds per game in his senior season. Sergio Kerusch was named into All-Sun Belt 1st Team. He also made it into NABC Division I All-District 24 1st Team.

Lazaros Papadopoulos has agreed with Olympiakos - by Giorgos Diploidis
Lazaros Papadopoulos (210-C-80) will finally be the center for that Dusan Ivkovic was looking for Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus The Greek player will replace Ioannis Bourousis who decided to leave the Greek team for Italy and Armany Milano. Papadopoulos the last 1.5 year in Greece was at PAOK then he decided to go at Russia in BC Khimky Moscow Region

The team of Piraeus will be his fourth team in Greece (Iraklis, Panathinaikos, PAOK). In The Russian league had 4.2 ppg and 4.3 rppg in 25 matches.

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HOLLAND

Austria hands the first loss to the Dutch team in St. Polten - by Eurobasket News
Austria-Netherlands 77:76

Austria hands the first loss to the Dutch team in St. Polten to remain alive for the first place in Group A. The home side beat Netherlands 77:76 and improved to 3-2 record. Netherlands meanwhile is on top with 4-1 record.
It was a very important game for both sides that stayed close to each other from the start. Dan Gadzuric (211-C-78, college: UCLA) closed the first period at 21:21 and Francisco Elson (212-C-76, agency: Court Side, college: California) scored for 29:28. Van Der Horst needed three for 40:38 to send the teams to the lockers for the big break. Three times the score was tied in the third period, while Voorn nailed three for 60:52 late in the quarter. Austria however answered with 7-0 run and reduced to 60:59. Anton Maresch (192-G-91)later made two free throws for 64:62 and Davor Lamesic (205-F-83, agency: Interperformances) tied it all at 69:69. Austria led five points with a minute to go, but enjoyed just 77:76 victory.
Davor Lamesic paced all the winners with 19 points, whilst Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) collected 15 points and 12 rebounds. Anton Maresch and Jason Detrick (198-G-80, college: Oklahoma) followed them with 12 points each in a win. Francisco Elson replied with 19 points in defeat and Dan Gadzuric had 13. Jansen followed them with 12 points, whilst Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) chipped in 10.

Austria: Davor Lamesic 19, Rasid Mahalbasic 15+12 rebs, Anton Maresch 12, Jason Detrick 12
Netherlands: Francisco Elson 19, Dan Gadzuric 13, Jansen 12, Robin Smeulders 10

Landstede Basketbal tabs forward Amu Saaka - by Fred Roggen
Landstede Basketbal reached an agreement with forward Amu Saaka (198-F-88, agency: Pro One Sports), who inked a one-year deal with the DBL team, the club confirmed Monday. Saaka arrives from Furman University, where he averaged 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 33 Southern Conference games last season.
After Nick Sanders, Gerad Punch and Robby Bostain, Amu Saaka is another player from Furman University who signed a contract with Landstede Basketball.

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HONG KONG

HUNGARY

2011 Universiade. Hungary dismantle UAE - by Eurobasket News
Hungary - UAE 84:62

Hungary overcame UAE on the final day of action at World University Games. The victory sealed the 19th-place finish for the winners. Mate Mohacsi (192-F-90) scored 20 points and collected 8 rebounds to pace the effort.
UAE jumped to an early lead but Hungary quickly denied the deficit. The European team posted a 25:16 lead ten minutes into the game. Hungary opened a double-digit lead early in the second term and maintained it well throughout the period. Hungary mounted the pressure in the third term and eased to a 20-point lead at the final break 68:48. UAE did not recover in the fourth frame and had to surrender at the end. Peter Szabo (183-G-89) posted 19 points, while Zoltan Supola (190-G-88, agency: FCM) added 18 points in the win. Qais Alshabebi (200-F-91) responded with 21 points for UAE. Mohamed AlBraiki (205-C-91) netted 17 points in defeat.

Hungary: Mate Mohacsi 20, Peter Szabo 19, Zoltan Supola 18
UAE: Qais Alshabebi 21, Mohamed AlBraiki 17

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ISRAEL

ITALY

Scavolini Pesaro lands Mirza Alibegovic - by Giulio Signorini
Scavolini Siviglia Pesaro lands for the upcoming serie a season Mirza Alibegovic (195-G-92) son of the the ex player and now coach Teoman Alibegovic.
Mirza is a guard with a good outside touch, but needs to improve his defensive skills and his 1-vs-1 at the offensive side. He had played in Snaidero Cucine Udine during 2009 - 2010 season with 5 games played in italian legadue championship. During the last season he had played in Biancoblu Basket Bologna in Italian B Dilettanti championship and he had averaged 5.3 ppg with 31.3% 3FGP on 12.3 minutes per game in 24 games played. He had double nationality (Slovenian - Italian)

S. Antimo lands Nick George - by Giulio Signorini
Ass.Pallacanestro Sant' Antimo lands for the upcoming season Nicholas George (198-F-82, college: VCU).
George is a power forward born in Manchester with double nationaly (USA and GBR). He had started is career in Virginia Commonwealth University in NCAA championship where he averaged 12.9 ppg with 6 rpg. After his college career he came to Italy where he play in serie a with Benetton Treviso (averagin 2.7 ppg in 2006-2007 season). In the 2007 - 2008 season he had played Spain-LEB Gold with Alicante Costablanca and in 2008 - 2009 he had played 10 games in BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral (France-ProA) before moving for 15 games in Zarotti Imola (italy-legadue) averaging 15.9 ppg and 7.8 rpg in 30.8 ppg. From 2009 to 2010 he had than played for Casale Monferrato where he averaged ever good statistics. He remained inactive in the last season for healthy problem resolved recently. He is an extremely athletic player and strong rebounder who excels in the open-court game it is also a good defender.

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IVORY COAST

Cameroon too much for Ivory Coast 76-70 - by Eurobasket News
Cameroon - Ivory Coast 76-70
Cameroon won the battle of leading group-C with a 76-70 points victory over Cote dIvoire thus keeping an hundred percent record after the preliminary round of its group at the 26th Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket for Men Sunday night. Cameroon won the first three quarters by 18-11, 24-22 and 20-19 points while it lost the last quarter by 14-18 points. Cameroon centre Gaston Essengue (203-F-83, college: UNLV) led his side charge for a comfortable first round finish with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals, Alfred Aboya (206-F/C-85, college: UCLA) had 17 points and 6 rebound with guard Christain Bayang scoring 15 points, 5 rebounds and 2 steals for the Lions victory. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

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JAPAN

2011 Universiade. Czech Republic fire down Japan - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic - Japan 94:81

Czech Republic ended their World University Games campaign with victory. They toppled Japan to clinch the 11th overall position. Patrik Auda (205-F-89) stepped up with 27 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort.
The teams got to a flying start. They traded baskets eagerly throughout the opening frame. Japan eked out a 29:28 lead after ten minutes. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the second frame. Czech Republic gained a narrow 47:44 lead at the interval. The Czech team finally cleared off in the third stanza. The Europeans arrived at the final pause up by 10 points 68:58. Czech Republic unloaded 26 points in the fourth period and rolled to the victory at the end. Tomas Macela (179-G-88) and Vojtech Hruban (200-F-89) delivered 15 points apiece in the win. Kosuke Kanamaru (193-F/G-89) answered with 17 points for Japan. Ruymo Ono (197-F/C-88) had 14 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.

Czech Republic: Patrik Auda 27, Tomas Macela 15, Vojtech Hruban 15+11 boards
Japan: Kosuke Kanamaru 17, Ruymo Ono 14

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LITHUANIA

Cavs to retire Ilgauskas' jersey - by Simas Baranauskas
Cleveland Cavaliers are planning to honor Zydrunas Ilgauskas (218-C-75, agency: Interperformances) by retiring the players jersey. This came to light on Kyrie Irvings, Cavs number one pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, trip in China, when the guard admitted that he wanted to choose number 11, but was told that the number was going to be retired.

Ilgauskas will become the seventh Cavalier to be honored by having his jersey hung in the rafters of the Quicken Loans Arena and will join Bingo Smith, Larry Nance, Mark Price, Austin Carr, Nate Thurmond and Brad Daugherty.

The Lithuanian center played for the Cavs from 1997 until 2010, when he decided to join the Miami Heat. Big Z is the Cavaliers all-time leader in games played (771), rebounds (5904) and blocked shots (1269).

Courtesy of LithuaniaBasketball.com

2011 Universiade. Lithuania eke out victory against Russia - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Russia 76:74

Lithuania stepped on the pedestal at World University Games. They held off Russia in the consolation final. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-PG-87) scored 25 points to pace the winners.
Russia cleared off late in the opening term to post a 19:14 lead. Evgeny Pashutin team stretched the gap to 10 points midway through the second frame. Russia established a 35:24 halftime advantage. But Lithuania bounced back in the third term. The Baltic team erased the deficit in the third term and eked out a 48:46 lead at the final intermission. Gediminas Orelikas (200-G/F-90) and Kadzevicius boosted the margin to 5 points late in regulation 71:66. But Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) and Dmitry Golovin (193-G-88) sank five free throws to draw things level at 71. Gediminas Orelikas converted a three-point play but Petr Gubanov and Savelyev levelled things up again at 74. Stanionis got fouled and dropped two free throws to put Lithuania in front 76:74 with four seconds remaining. Savelyev missed a buzzer-beater and Lithuania escaped with victory at the end. Gediminas Orelikas posted 16 points, while Julius Jucikas (205-C-89) added 9 points in the win. Petr Gubanov answered with 24 points for Russia. Anatoly Kashirov (215-C-87) had 17 points and 8 rebounds in the loss.

Lithuania: Ernestas Ezerskis 25, Gediminas Orelikas 16, Julius Jucikas 9
Russia: Petr Gubanov 24, Anatoly Kashirov 17

Zygimantas Sestokas and Marius Pociukonis remain with Juventus - by Eurobasket News
Zygimantas Sestokas (196-G/F-86, agency: Players Group, college: Hofstra) and Marius Pociukonis (189-G-82) remain with Juventus for the next season.
In 2009-2010 Zygimantas Sestokas played for Martos Napoli (Italy-SerieA), then moved to Marijampole Suduva-Arvi (LKL) and also played at Meresta Pakruojis (NKL) and Akademija Vilnius. In 2010-2011 he moved to Juventus-LKSK Utenos (LKL) and in Baltic League averaged 3.3ppg, 1.2rpg. In Lithuanian League after 25 games his stats read 3.4ppg. Together with the team as well as with his teammate they became Baltic League (Challenge Cup) Champion -11 and reached Lithuanian League Semifinals -11.
Marius Pociukonis came to Juventus from Romania. In 2009-2010 he played for BC Tirgu Mures (Romania-Div.A, starting five) and in 28 games averaged 12.9ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 48.0%, FT: 76.3%. In 2010-2011 appeared in Juventus-LKSK Utenos (LKL) and in Lithuanian League showed 7.6ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 69.2%. In Baltic League after 12 games his stats read 8.5ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 45.0%, FT-2 (93.3%).

Sakalai tab Laurynas Samenas - by Eurobasket News
Sakalai added Laurynas Samenas (192-G-88). The 22-year-old guard spent the last season in Perlas Vilnius. He tallied 6.9 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game in Baltic League. In LKL Laurynas Samenas posted 8.8 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists per appearance. The guard is not new to Sakalai. He played for the team in 2008/10 seasons. Laurynas Samenas was the member of U18 and U19 Lithuanian National Teams.

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LUXEMBOURG

Luxembourg lost the the fifth straight game in Division B - by Eurobasket News
Luxembourg-Estonia 79:105

Luxembourg lost the fifth straight game at European Championship in Division B. The team was beaten by Estonia 79:105 in Luxembourg. Estonia had 3 wins out of 5 games and still holds the chance for the first place in Group A after the Netherlands failed to beat Austria. Luxembourg has lost all five games.
Koster brought the only lead for the home side in the first period at 2:0 and 4:2. Samy Picard (195-F-88) later tied it all at 10:10, but then Estonia proved the difference in the court for a while. Rain Veideman (192-G-91) made two free throws at the end of the period for 27:20 and Kangur brought 29:24. Martin Rajniak (204-F-78, college: CSU Bakersfield) later tied the game at 31:31 and Samy Picard scored for 34:31. Luxembourg played great in the second stanza and Koster closed the half at 47:46. The third frame became decisive in the game as Estonia erupted with 32-11 for 78:58 at the end of third quarter. Kitsing gave the Baltic side three digit number with 3 minutes to go and Saage made the final score in the game.
Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) paced the winners with 20 points and 7 rebounds. Janar Talts (206-C-83) added 18 points and Rain Rain Veideman had 14, Gert Gert Dorbek (194-G-85) 11 and Kristo Saage 10 points. Samy Samy Picard scored 24 points in a losing effort.

Luxembourg: Samy Picard 24, Tom Schumacher (190-G-87, college: Cal.Baptist) 15, Martin Rajniak 12, Christopher Jones (186-G-90) 10
Estonia: Gregor Arbet 20, Janar Talts 18, Rain Veideman 14, Gert Dorbek 11

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MADAGASCAR

Madagascar fails to Nigeria 81-112 - by Eurobasket News
Nigeria - Madagascar 112-81
Nigeria Sunday night finish top of group-A without dropping a game with a 112-81 last group game victory over Madagascar to set up Tuesday Eight Round Final date against Chad who has been confine to the bottom of group-B. Nigeria opened the exciting game with a 25-19 points first quarter win it settle for an even score with the host of 30 points apiece to take a 55-49 points lead into the half-time. DTigers as the Nigeria senior national team is known took a step further winning the third and fourth quarters by 20-13 and 37-19 points respectively to end the game at 112-81 points to lead the group with Mali placing second while Mozambique finish third. Nigeria Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, college: Texas Arlington) (199-F-81, college: Texas Arlington) led the floor with 21 points and 2 rebounds, point guard Michael Umeh (188-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: UNLV) netted 19 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds and 2 steals, centre Oyedeji Olumide (208-C/F-81) had a double double of 17 points, 13 rebounds and one block-shot, Ime Udoka (196-F/G-77, agency: Priority Sports, college: Portland St.) added 10 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 steals with Solomon Tat contributing 10 points and 2 rebounds. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

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MEXICO

2011 Universiade. Australia nip Mexico in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Mexico 71:68

Australia overcame Mexico on the final day of action at World University Games in China. The Aussies thus earned the 15th place at the tourney. Clinton Steindl (200-F-89) registered 15 points to lead the effort.
Mexico looked better in the starting frame. They established a 19:14 lead after ten minutes. The Latin American team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They posted a 31:25 halftime lead. Australia managed to narrow the gap in the third quarter. They cut the deficit at 4 points 42:46 entering the fourth frame. Australia got within striking distance in the dying minutes and eventually snatched a difficult win at the end. Matthew Hodgson (211-C-91) provided 14 points for Australia. Cameron Gliddon (196-G/F-89) delivered 11 points in the win. Francisco Cruz (191-G-89) answered with 15 points for Mexico. Israel Nolasco (205-C-89) had 12 points in the loss.

Australia: Clinton Steindl 15, Matthew Hodgson 14, Cameron Gliddon 11
Mexico: Francisco Cruz 15, Israel Nolasco 12

Latinbasket.com All-Mexican CIBANE Awards 2011 - by Carlos Chapa
Player of the Year: Tyronne Beale (203-F-84) of Fresnillo M.
Guard of the Year: Rodolfo Rodriguez (190-G-80) of UAZ Tuzos
Forward of the Year: Tyronne Beale (203-F-84) of Fresnillo M.
Center of the Year: Sandrell Spann (203-F/C-80) of Durango M.
Import Player of the Year: Tyronne Beale (203-F-84) of Fresnillo M.
Domestic Player of the Year: Rodolfo Rodriguez (190-G-80) of UAZ Tuzos
Defensive Player of the Year: Roderick Smith (203-C-83) of Durango M.
Rookie of the Year: Ignacio Barrera (180-G-93) of Saltillo Caktus
Most Improved Player: Victor Chavez (198-G/F-83) of Durango M.
Coach of the Year: Jesus Quintero of Durango M.

1st Team
G: Ignacio Barrera (180-93) of Saltillo Caktus
G: Rodolfo Rodriguez (190-80) of UAZ Tuzos
C: Roderick Smith (203-83) of Durango M.
F: Tyronne Beale (203-84) of Fresnillo M.
F/C: Sandrell Spann (203-80) of Durango M.

2nd Team
G: Francisco Luna (180-83) of P.Negras A.
G: Jonathan Maxwell (191-82) of P.Negras A.
G/F: Victor Chavez (198-83) of Durango M.
F: Gerardo Arroyos (200) of UAZ Tuzos
F: CamRon Clay (203) of UAZ Tuzos

Honorable Mention
Sergio Escobar (195-F-81) of Fresnillo M.
Valentin Cabral (187-G-80) of Fresnillo M.
Javier Bautista (190-G-75) of Saltillo Caktus
Fernando Sandoval (190-G) of Fresnillo M.
Santiago Nogueira (183-G-83) of Durango M.
Curtis Dilworth () of P.Negras A.
Jean Auguste Wilder (198-F-82) of UAZ Tuzos
Erick Hare (196-G/F-79) of Durango M.

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Ignacio Barrera (180-93) of Saltillo Caktus
G: Rodolfo Rodriguez (190-80) of UAZ Tuzos
G/F: Victor Chavez (198-83) of Durango M.
F: Sergio Escobar (195-81) of Fresnillo M.
F: Gerardo Arroyos (200) of UAZ Tuzos

All-Imports Team
G: Jonathan Maxwell (191-82) of P.Negras A.
: Curtis Dilworth () of P.Negras A.
C: Roderick Smith (203-83) of Durango M.
F: Tyronne Beale (203-84) of Fresnillo M.
F/C: Sandrell Spann (203-80) of Durango M.

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MONTENEGRO

Buducnost gets bigger with Nikola Vucevic - by Eurobasket News
Buducnost announced signing of a one-year deal with Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90, college: USC). The Montenegrin big guy heads to Buducnost for his first professional season. He graduated at the University of Southern California few months ago. Vucevic had 17.1 ppg, 10.3 rpg and 1.6 apf for his school as a senior. He was selected as 16th overall pick by Philadelphia 76ers at the latest NBA Draft. Nikola Vucevic is active member of the Montenegrin National Team. He will play for them at the EuroBasket in Lithuania. In the past, Vucevic was a member of U20 Montenegro. He shined at the European Championships U20 in Rhodos two years ago. For 8 games at this event Vucevic exploded with 15.5 ppg, 10.8 rpg and 1.9 bpg. Before his move to the USA, Vucevic played for Mornar Bar.

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MOZAMBIQUE

Mozambique losses to Mali 69-72 after two overtimes - by Eurobasket News
Mali - Mozambique 72-69 OT2
Mali edge Mozambique by 72-69 points in a thriller game that provided double over-time to earn it second win in group-A of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men in Palais des Sports Antananarivo, Madagascar. Mali had trailed the Mozambican by 12-14 points in the first quarter of the game that kept fans cheering ceaselessly but step up it game to win the second quarter by 17-06 points to take a 29-20 points lead going into the break but gave up the lead as Mozambique charged back in the third quarter by 15-27 points to trail by 44-47 points at the end of the third quarter. The fourth quarter provided Mali another opportunity as they even scores at 59 points apiece at the end of the fourth quarter, the first over-time also saw both sides refusing to give-in as they both scored 6 points each to set the stage for a second over-time which the Malian eventually won by 07-04 points for a final score-line of 72-69 points. Mali guard Waly Coulibaly (190-G-88) led his team with 15 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists, Mohamed Tangara (208-F/C-84, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: Arizona) poured in 14 points grabbed 9 rebounds and had 4 steals while Modibo Niakate (185-G-81, college: Cleveland St.) contributed 12 points and 2 rebounds for their side strong win. *By Olusegun Ikuesan

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NBA

NCAA1

2011 Universiade. USA outlast Germany, clinch 5th position - by Eurobasket News
USA - Germany 86:83

USA wrapped up their World University Games campaign with victory. They held off Germany in a thrilling battle to occupy the fifth overall position. Trevor Mbakwe (6'8''-F-89) stepped up with 21 points and 8 rebounds to pace the winners.
USA and Germany traded baskets throughout close first quarter. The lead changed hands before Germany posted a 21:19 lead after ten minutes. The European team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. Germany arrived at halftime up by a single point 41:40. Jamychal Green (6'9''-F-90) scored 10 points in the third frame allowing USA to take a 64:61 lead heading into the fourth frame. Trevor Mbakwe helped the United States build an 11-point lead midway through the fourth stanza. Johannes Lischka (6'8''-F/C-87) drained a pair of triples late in regulation as Germany got within three points but USA stayed calm as Gibbs and Trevor Mbakwe sealed the winning outcome from the charity stripe. John Jenkins (6'4''-G-91) scored 15 points, while Jamychal Green added 12 points for the winners. Johannes Lischka responded with 28 points for Germany. Bastian Doreth (6'0''-G-89) notched 12 points in the loss.

USA: Trevor Mbakwe 21, John Jenkins 15, Jamychal Green 12
Germany: Johannes Lischka 28, Bastian Doreth 12

Jeff Robinson gets pro deal in Austria - by Eurobasket News
Jeff Robinson (6'6''-F-88, college: Seton Hall) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American forward penned a one-year deal with Austrian team Furstenfeld Panthers. Robinson graduated at the Seton Hall University few months ago. He had 12.1 ppg and 6.4 rpg for them in 31 games as a senior. Robinson was also one of the Seton Hall better players in 2009/10. At that time he had 12.2 ppg and 5.8 rpg in 24 games. Jeff Robinson transferred to Seton Hall in 2009 from the University of Memphis. With Memphis he won C-USA Tournament twice. They also reached NCAA Finals in 2008. Robinson was freshman at that time averaging 3 points and 2.3 rebounds for 28 games.

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NEW ZEALAND

2011 Universiade. New Zealand top Hong Kong - by Eurobasket News
New Zealand - Hong Kong 92:61

New Zealand finished their World University Games campaign on a high note. The Kiwis thumped Hong Kong to earn the 21st place at the tournament. Marco Alexander (186-G-91) scored 25 points to lead the charge.
New Zealand fired 27 points in the opening term to build a 9-point lead. The Kiwis cleared off in the second frame. They built a 22-point halftime advantage. New Zealand went on a 13:4 run to open the third stanza. Hong Kong never recovered in the reminder of the contest as New Zealand cruised to the victory at the end. Justin Richard Edwards (197-F-90) posted 24 points, while Dion Prewster (195-G/F-91, college: Stephen F. Austin) added 15 points and 7 rebounds in the winning effort. Hong Kong answered with 23 points from Lee Ki (177-PG-87). Chan Yik Lun (190-G-87) had 11 points in defeat.

New Zealand: Marco Alexander 25, Justin Richard Edwards 24, Dion Prewster 15
Hong Kong: Lee Ki 23, Chan Yik Lun 11

FYR Macedonia wins the home tournament in Skopje - by Eurobasket News
FYR Macedonia-New Zealand 68:67

FYR Macedonia wins the home tournament after a thrilling win over New Zealand. The hosts added the second victory at the tournament to triumph with 68:67 victory.
FYR Macedonia started better and reached 24:20 advantage at the end of the first period. Lester McCalebb scored for 38:31 and Todor Gechevski (209-C-77, agency: Interperformances) closed the half at 42:37. The latter brought the biggest lead in the game at 49:38, but New Zealand did not give up. Alex Pledger tied the game at 53:53 and Michael Fitchett made the same at 55:55. In the final stanza the Tall Blacks gained the lead by four but the home side came back and with the score at 67:66 with 30 seconds on the clock BJ Anthony missed two free throws. Macedonians moved into the lead 68:67, while Lindsay Tait (194-G-82, agency: Impact Basketball) missed a shot from halfway to win the game.
Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 16 points, while Lester McCalebb and Todor Gechevski scored 12 each. Thomas Abercrombie (198-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Washington St.) ended up with 12 points, while Lindsay Tait had 11 in defeat. Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) and Corey Webster (185-G-88, college: Lambuth) followed them with 10 points apiece.

FYR Macedonia: Pero Antic 16, Lester McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) 12 Todor Gechevski 12
New Zealand: Thomas Abercrombie 12, Lindsay Tait 11, Kirk Penney 10, Corey Webster 10

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NIGERIA

26th Afrobasket: With luck Nigeria can lift the trophy Masai - by Olusegun Ikuesan
A former Nigerian international, Masai Ujiri has praised the Coach Ayo Bakare tutored side at the 26th edition of FIBA Africa Championship for Men in Antananarivo, Madagascar for winning all its group-A games.

Ujiri who once played under Coach Bakare said though the team is doing well but a bit of luck will see it lifting the Afrobasket which has eluded Nigeria since 1962.

The Denver Nuggets basketball club Vice-President Operation is however, optimistic that the present team is capable of going far as they play more as a unit compare to what obtain with past teams.

Ujiri also rated the standard of the 26th edition of the championship high as concluded that Africa can take its pride of place in world basketball if FIBA Africa and respective federations can be more proactive.

Ujiri urge former players to always give back to their countries by assisting upcoming players through the organisation of camps for young players.

He says the 2011 Top-50 camp billed for next month in Nigeria will go ahead as schedule as arrangement have been concluded on the camp

26th Afrobasket: Bakare, Adingono salute FIBA Africa - by Olusegun Ikuesan
As the 26th edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men progresses two reputable coaches have taken a critical appraisal of the championship and conclude that indeed Africa basketball is growing.

In a separate chat with FIBA Africa Coaches Ayo Bakare of Nigeria and Lazare Adingono of Cameroon says the standard of the 26th edition of Afrobasket is high compare to past edition and this they attibuted to the high work rate FIBA Africa especially its secretariat is putting to the development of basketball on the continent.

Coach Bakare says unlike in the past where only about four countries can be said to have developed a high basketball standard while teams that will progress to the last four can easily be known from the first day of the championship the same cannot be said of the 26th edition as over ten teams are good enough to lift the trophy.

The Nigeria tactician imploy FIBA Africa not to rest until the development of basketball is well spread on the continent.

Coach Bakare gave assurance that Nigeria will continue to improvement with every game and would not under-estimate any team as no team is a push-over any more.

Coach Adingono says the Golden Jubilee that FIBA Africa attain this year is worth being celebrated as the standard of basketball especially the Afrobasket is on the rise.

I am impressed with what I have seen here with teams improving with every championship, it is a thing of joy to note that I am part of the 26th edition of Afrobasket especially in the year that FIBA Africa attain fifty years.

The standard of the 2011 edition of the championship here in Madagascar is high compare what we have in the past and this is the direct effort FIBA Africa is putting into the development of basketball across Africa especially the Secretary General and members of the Secretariat staffs.

Cameroon is here to fight for the London 2012 Olympic ticket and that can also be said of other top teams here, the Cameroon coach concluded.

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PHILIPPINES

2011 PBA Rookie Draft order - by Eurobasket News
The 2011 PBA Rookie Draft will be held on August 28 at Robinson's Place-Manila, 4PM.

1. Powerade
2. Rain or Shine (from Air21)
3. Air21 (from Meralco)
4. Powerade (from Rain or Shine)
5. Shopinas (from B-Meg)
6. Alaska
7. Talk 'N Text (from Shopinas)
8. Petron Blaze
9. Brgy. Ginebra
10. Air21 (from Talk 'N Text)
11. Talk 'N Text (from Air21)
12. Alaska (from Powerade)
13. Alaska (from Meralco)
14. Alaska (from Rain or Shine)
15. B-Meg
16. Alaska
17. Air21 (from Petron Blaze)
18. Brgy. Ginebra (from Shopinas)
19. Air21 (from Brgy. Ginebra)
20. Talk 'N Text

Courtesy of www.pba-online.net

PBA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Arizona REID
  Rain or Shine
  (196-F-86)
  Avg: 28.7

1. Reid, Rain or Shine	28.7
2. Forte, Alaska Aces	23.1
3. Grundy, Petron B.	22.8
4. Sloan, Ginebra Kin.	22.6
5. Mercado, Meralco	21.8
6. Yap, B-Meg Llam.	21.0
7. Porter, Powerade.	20.8
8. Bangura, Air21 E.	19.6
9. Caguioa, Ginebra	19.5
10. Reynolds, Talk N.	17.6

Rebounds Per Game

Arizona REID
  Rain or Shine
  (196-F-86)
  Avg: 15.4

1. Reid, Rain or Shine	15.4
2. Forte, Alaska Aces	15.4
3. Porter, Powerade.	14.9
4. Santos, Petron B.	13.7
5. Pingris, B-Meg L.	10.2
6. Taulava, Meralco	10.0
7. Thoss, Alaska Aces	9.7
8. Espinas, Meralco	9.1
9. Sloan, Ginebra Kin.	8.7
10. Devance, B-Meg L.	8.5

Assists Per Game

Alex CABAGNOT
  Petron B.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 7

1. Cabagnot, Petron	7.0
2. Grundy, Petron B.	6.0
3. Mercado, Meralco	5.5
4. Sloan, Ginebra Kin.	5.3
5. Castro, Talk N Te.	5.2
6. Cruz, Powerade T.	5.0
7. Alapag, Talk N Te.	5.0
8. Reynolds, Talk N.	4.4
9. Tenorio, Alaska A.	4.4
10. Reid, Rain or Shi.	4.2

Steals Per Game

Chris PORTER
  Powerade.
  (201-F-78)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Porter, Powerade.	2.6
2. Grundy, Petron B.	2.4
3. Reynolds, Talk N.	1.8
4. Reyes, Talk N Text	1.5
5. Yap, B-Meg Llam.	1.4
6. Cruz, Powerade T.	1.4
7. Tenorio, Alaska A.	1.4
8. Bangura, Air21 E.	1.4
9. Hontiveros, Air21	1.3
10. Arboleda, Air21 E.	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Arwind SANTOS
  Petron B.
  (193-F-81)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Santos, Petron B.	1.6
2. Thoss, Alaska Aces	1.5
3. Seigle, Air21 Expr.	1.3
4. Rodriguez, Rain o.	1.2
5. Forte, Alaska Aces	1.2
6. Devance, B-Meg L.	1.2
7. Peek, Talk N Text	1.1
8. Pingris, B-Meg L.	1.1
9. Espinas, Meralco	0.8
10. Grundy, Petron B.	0.8

Petron Blaze win PBA Governors' Cup 4-3, deny TNT's Grand Slam bid - by Eurobasket News
Talk N Text - Petron Blaze 73-85
Undermanned Petron foiled Talk 'N Text's Grand Slam bid Sunday night, carving out a masterful 85-73 win to bag the PBA Governor's Cup championship before a crowd of 17,000 at the rocking Araneta Coliseum. Import Anthony Grundy (189-G-79, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.), atoning for a dismal five-point output in Game 6 the last time, exploded at the right time for the Boosters with 26 points as he keyed a huge third quarter run just when momentum appeared to be shifting for the Tropang Texters'side. Grundy had 12 points during that decisive stretch that saw the Boosters reverse a 41-42 deficit to their biggest lead of the match, 62-48. The Tropang Texters played catch up from there, before Arwind Santos (193-F-81), who finished with 16 points and 16 rebounds to emerge as the hands-down choice as Finals MVP, scored on a breakaway two-handed slam with 37 seconds left for an 81-73 lead that sparked the over at the Petron bench and its hordes of supporters. Grundy made possible that Santos basket after completing a steal off a Maurice Baker (184-PG-79, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Oklahoma St.) pass to Ranidel de Ocampo. The Boosters, a heavy underdog against the powerhouse Tropang Texters, won the best-of-seven title series, 4-3, and clinched their 19th PBA championship overall. They likewise avenged their 4-2 loss against the Tropang Texters in the Philippine Cup Finals early this year. The victory was sweeter for coach Ato Agustin as he made it among the company of select PBA coaches who won a championship during their rookie year. Denok Miranda added 16 points for the Boosters, and Alex Cabagnot (183-G-82, college: Hawaii-Hilo) had 12, nine rebounds and eight assists in winning his first league championship together with Santos and rookie coach Ato Agustin. Talk 'N Text became the latest team after Alaska in 1998 to come up short of completing a sweep of all three season conferences. Import Maurice Baker finished with 22 points to lead the Tropang Texters, who failed to get the scoring support from injured player Jason Castro (173-G-86) and Larry Fonacier (186-G-82). Castro, hounded by an MCL injury and a sprained left ankle he suffered in the third period, only had two points, while Fonacier failed to score and finished with a 0-of-10 shooting from the field. A long three-point shot by Jimmy Alapag to beat the buzzer made it 64-53 heading into the pivotal fourth. A big break came the Tropang Texters' way halfway into the second quarter when Jojo Duncil was called for a flagrant foul 2 against Baker, resulting to the ejection of the tough Petron guard. Baker canned both free throws, and then added another pair of charities a few minutes later following a foul called this time on Sunday Salvacion. The four straight points of Baker formed part of a 7-0 blast by Talk 'N Text, cutting a 13-point deficit to just 28-34 with 6:15 left before halftime. Petron managed to keep the six-point lead at the break, 40-34. The Boosters went on an offensive mode early, with Miranda accounting for the team's first seven points. Then Danny Ildefonso, Santos and Cabagnot took over. A three-pointer by Cabagnot gave Petron a 20-11 lead with 5:24 to go, and then stretched it to a double-digit edge with another triple by Grundy to make it 25-13. The first period ended with the Boosters on top, 28-17. OMG, GMA News *Courtesy of www.pba-online.net

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PORTUGAL

Antonio Herrera new coach of FC Barreirense - by Hugo Carvalho
The spanish Antonio Herrera is the new coach of FC Barreirense for 2011/2012 season
The last time was in the spanish team Promobys / brick dispute LEB Silver, having finished last season with a record of nineteen wins and nine defeats.
Antonio Herrera is a coach ambitious and demanding in his work, he has in his curriculum ACB League teams, Forum Valladolid (2005/06) and Real Madrid (2006/07), where he joined its technical team as assistant coach and also coach of Sub -20 and EBA.
It is a great choice.
Herrera will surely bring new ideas, new concepts of play.
Good luck to Barreirense CEPSA.

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ROMANIA

Spencer Nelson leads Azerbaijan past Romania in Baku - by Eurobasket News
Azerbaijan-Romania 74:56

Spencer Nelson (203-F-80, college: Utah St.) leads Azerbaijan past Romania in Baku. He erupted with 28 points and 16 rebounds in Division B of the European Championship as his side took 5-2 record in Group B. Romania meanwhile fell at 4-3 record on the third position.
Azerbaijan scored the first four points in the game and had 11:3 after the basket from Zaur Pashayev (186-G-83). Paul and Nelson exchanged the late baskets in the first period for 21:13. Romania pulled the tempo and controlled back to their hands in the second period and Paul brought 33:31 for the guests. Nelson made two free throws for 33:33 at the end of the first half. The third period was decisive in the game and brought 27-6 for the home side. Azerbaijan played well both in defense and offense and reached 60:39 after thirty minutes. Fuad Niftaliyev (183-G-80) nailed three for 66:46 and Spencer Nelson delivered two fro 70:48. Hamzayev and Aurelian Dumitrescu (195-G-79) were the last players to score for their teams to make the final result of the game.
Zaur Pashayev poured in 14 points, while Fuad Niftaliyev and Aleksandr Rindin (225-C-85, agency: Interperformances) netted 12 apiece. Aurelian Dumitrescu replied with 19 points in the losing effort, while Teodor Jucan (198-F-83) notched 12 and Andrei Capusan (201-F-83, agency: Court Side, college: Lafayette) scored 10.

Azerbaijan: Spencer Nelson 28+16 rebs, Zaur Pashayev 14, Fuad Niftaliyev 12, Aleksandr Rindin 12
Romania: Aurelian Dumitrescu 19, Teodor Jucan 12, Andrei Capusan 10

2011 Universiade. Finland prevail against Romania to clinch 7th spot - by Eurobasket News
Finland - Romania 76:69

Finland celebrated the victory on the final day of the World University Games in Shenzhen. They overcame Romania to clinch the seventh overall position. Antti Kanervo (193-G/F-89) scored 21 points to pace the winners.
Finland jumped ahead early in the encounter and ensured 23:20 lead at the first break. The teams stayed close throughout the second quarter. Finland hung on to establish a 39:38 halftime lead. Romania denied the deficit late in the third quarter. They drew things level at 55 heading into the fourth period. Vlad Moldoveanu (207-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances, college: American) put Romania in front 67:65 with three minutes to go in regulation. But Roope Ahonen (187-PG-90, agency: FCM) stepped up with nine points in the reminder of the contest carrying Finland to the victory. He finished with 20 points, while Matti Nuutinen (200-F-90) added 11 points in the win. Titus Nicoara (202-F-88, agency: Interperformances) answered with 18 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for Romania. Vlad Moldoveanu delivered 17 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Finland: Antti Kanervo 21, Roope Ahonen 20, Matti Nuutinen 11
Romania: Titus Nicoara 18+10 boards, Vlad Moldoveanu 17+11 boards

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RUSSIA

2011 Universiade. Lithuania eke out victory against Russia - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Russia 76:74

Lithuania stepped on the pedestal at World University Games. They held off Russia in the consolation final. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-PG-87) scored 25 points to pace the winners.
Russia cleared off late in the opening term to post a 19:14 lead. Evgeny Pashutin team stretched the gap to 10 points midway through the second frame. Russia established a 35:24 halftime advantage. But Lithuania bounced back in the third term. The Baltic team erased the deficit in the third term and eked out a 48:46 lead at the final intermission. Gediminas Orelikas (200-G/F-90) and Kadzevicius boosted the margin to 5 points late in regulation 71:66. But Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) and Dmitry Golovin (193-G-88) sank five free throws to draw things level at 71. Gediminas Orelikas converted a three-point play but Petr Gubanov and Savelyev levelled things up again at 74. Stanionis got fouled and dropped two free throws to put Lithuania in front 76:74 with four seconds remaining. Savelyev missed a buzzer-beater and Lithuania escaped with victory at the end. Gediminas Orelikas posted 16 points, while Julius Jucikas (205-C-89) added 9 points in the win. Petr Gubanov answered with 24 points for Russia. Anatoly Kashirov (215-C-87) had 17 points and 8 rebounds in the loss.

Lithuania: Ernestas Ezerskis 25, Gediminas Orelikas 16, Julius Jucikas 9
Russia: Petr Gubanov 24, Anatoly Kashirov 17

BC Khimky Moscow Region shape up 2011/2012 roster - by Eurobasket News
BC Khimky Moscow Region shape up 2011/2012 roster and will be definitely one of the favorites not only in the local League, however all other tournaments they will participate at.
Khimky confirm Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas), Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83, agency: Alti Sport), Sergey Monya (203-F-83), Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Washington St.), Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) as well as Alexey Zhukanenko (210-F-86, agency: Alti Sport), Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport), Matt Nielsen (208-F/C-78, agency: Beo Basket), Dmitry Khvostov (191-G-89), Egor Vyaltsev (192-G-85), Chris Quinn (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame) and Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: RIZO).
Matt Nielsen became the last signing for the Russian team. The experienced Australian signed a two-year deal with Khimky Moscow. Nielsen spent last season with Olympiakos. He had 9 ppg and 3.8 rpg for the Reds in 16 Greek league games. In Euroleague, Nielsen added 4.4 ppg and 2.9 rpg. He helped Olympiacos to defend the Greek Cup trophy this year.
Alexey Zhukanenko meanwhile started to practice already with the main group. The National team player can not help the Russian National team. The player had an ankle injury and will not be able to join the team.

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RWANDA

26th Afrobasket: Rwanda pipe Togo 87-67 finish 3rd in Group-C - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Rwanda Monday finish third in group-C with an 87-67 points victory over Togo in both sides last group game at the Palais des Sports, Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Rwanda open the game with a 27-08 and 24-10 points advantage in the first and second quarters but Togo stage a late come-back from the beginning of the third quarter forcing Rwanda to commit mistake though the insurgence was late to save them from defeat but Rwanda lost both quarters by 21-23 and 15-26 points.

Herbert Gasana led the floor with 19 points, 9 assists, 2 rebound and 2 steal, forward Robert Thomson contributed 18 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assist and 2 steal with Bradley Cameron grabbing a double double of 13 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals to earn Rwanda its first win of the championship.

Rwanda will battle Cote dIvoire Wednesday in the eight final round at 15H00.
Robert Thomson (208-C-82, college: Fairfield)

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SENEGAL

SERBIA

2011 Universiade. Serbia beat Canada to defend title - by Eurobasket News
Serbia - Canada 68:55

Serbia regained the World University Games title. They prevailed against Canada in the championship game in Shenzhen tonight. Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 17 points to lead the charge.
Canada stayed in charge in the opening quarter. The North American team posted a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. Canada maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They arrived at halftime up by two points 34:32. But Serbia opened the second half on an 8:2 run to surge ahead. The European team gradually boosted the margin arriving at the final break up by 9 points 49:40. Serbia stayed aggressive and kept their opponents at distance throughout the fourth frame. Canada failed to get within striking distance in the final quarter as Serbia coasted to the victory at the end. Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) posted 11 points, while Marko Ljubicic (195-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) notched 9 points in the winning effort. Nathan Yu (189-PG-89) and Tyson Hinz (199-F-91) answered with 14 points each in the loss.

Serbia: Mladen Jeremic 17, Vladimir Lucic 11, Marko Ljubicic 9
Canada: Nathan Yu 14, Tyson Hinz 14

Crvena Zvezda Beograd hires Svetislav Pesic as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
Svetislav Pesic (agency: Interperformances) is a new head coach of Crvena Zvezda Beograd. The newly formed team which includes FMP Zeleznik and Crvena Zvezda players hired Pesic for the next two years. They also have option for the 2013/14 season. The Serbian specialist made great results with Valencia last season. He helped them reach Euroleague Quarterfinals. Pesic worked with Crvena Zvezda in 2008/09 season. The 62-year-old coach led them to Serbian league and Cup Finals. Svetislav Pesic led Yugoslavian National Team to the European and World Championship Gold. He also triumphed in Euroleague together with Barcelona. In 2007, Pesic won the FIBA EuroCup with Girona. He coach at the FIBA EuroCup All-Star Game that year.

France edge Serbia to win London Invitational Tournament - by Eurobasket News
France - Serbia 80:77

France registered the fifth straight win at London Invitational Tournament. They thus finished the tourney undefeated. France held off Serbia on the final day of action. Tony Parker (183-PG-80) fired 24 points, grabbed 6 boards and issued 3 assists in the victory.
France capped the opening period on a 9:2 run to build a 25:18 lead. Les Bleus took over completely in the second term. Mickael Gelabale (201-F-83) knocked down 9 points as France posted a 48:31 lead at the interval. Noah opened a 21-point lead for France midway through the third term. Les Bleus entered the final quarter ahead by as many as 19 points 68:49. Serbia tipped off the fourth frame on a frantic 23:3 rally to put their noses in front 72:71. The teams exchanged baskets for some time before Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) and Tony Parker sealed the victory for Les Bleus. Nicolas Batum provided 14 points, while Mickael Gelabale and Nando De Colo (202-G-87) accounted for 11 points apiece in the victory. Kosta Perovic (217-C-85) answered with 14 points for Serbia. Aleksandar Rasic (195-G-84, agency: Beo Basket) had 11 points in the loss.

France: Tony Parker 24, Nicolas Batum 14, Mickael Gelabale 11, Nando De Colo 11
Serbia: Kosta Perovic 14, Aleksandar Rasic 11

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SLOVAKIA

Maslik Is Out With Injury, Laslo Without Passport - by Tomas Kottra
Two players already left MBK Rieker Komarno fo different reasons.
Two changes in Komarno - Michal Maslik (209-C-89) is out for probably whole season. The pre-season trainings have just started and Michal injured his achilles tendon. It is a serious injury towards his basketball career. MBK have replaced him very quickly with experienced Czech forward Jan Kratochvil (200-F-82).
Second player who left MBK is Robert Laslo (194-G-84, agency: TSS Management) - Serbian with announced Hungarian passport did not get his passport so MBK would exceed the non-EU players quota.'It [the passport] will be not done in the time when i am supposed to get licence in Slovakian competition,' said Laslo. He was also quickly replaced - by Martin Binovsky (185-G-87), former Handlova and Prievidza player.

Switzerland grabbed 3-2 record in Group C after a road trip to Levice - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Republic-Switzerland 57:76

Switzerland grabbed 3-2 record after a road trip to Levice. The Swiss side outscored Slovak Republic 76:57 to hand them the third loss.
Both teams entered the game with 2-2 record and desired to take the third victory. They were tied at 7:7, while the hosts created a 7-0 run for 16:7 and then Derek Stockalper (198-G/F-84, college: Cal Poly - SLO) closed the period at 16:11. Dusan Mladjan (199-G-86, agency: Interperformances) nailed three midway through the second frame for 24:24, while Roman Marko (195-G-86) remained the hosts in front at the halftime. The second half however completely belonged to the guests. Buscaglia scored for 41:34 and the three-pointers from Jonathan Dubas (201-F/C-91) and Dusan Mladjan brought 53:42 after three quarters. Another 23-15 in the last stanza made the final difference +19 for the Swiss side.
Greg Brunner (201-C/F-83, college: Iowa) and Dusan Mladjan top-scored for the winners and 16 points each and added 18 rebounds together. Derek Stockalper notched 12, while Jonathan Dubas collected 10 points and 10 boards.

Slovak Republic: Peter Sedmak (203-C-85) 16, Roman Marko 15
Switzerland: Greg Brunner 16+16 rebs, Dusan Mladjan 16 Derek Stockalper 12, Jonathan Dubas 10+10 rebs

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SLOVENIA

Spain hand Slovenia second straight loss - by Eurobasket News
Spain - Slovenia 79:57

Spain and Slovenia clashed in the second friendly encounter in as many days. This time the teams played in Granada but the outcome remained the same. The hosts claimed a comfortable win at the end. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) scored 19 points to lead the effort.
The teams stayed close throughout the starting period. Spain led by just three points 18:15 after ten minutes. The hosts however went on an 11:0 run in the second period to ensure a 38:28 halftime lead. Spain opened the second half on a 12:5 rally to boost the margin. Slovenia did not surrender and went on a comeback rally late in the period. They cut the deficit to just five points heading into the fourth frame 50:55. But Spain took over in the fourth quarter outscoring the visitors 24:7 and claiming a well-deserved win at the end. Serge Ibaka (208-C/F-89) stepped up with 12 points and 9 rebounds, while Sergio Llull (190-PG-87) added 10 points in the victory. Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) responded with 10 points and 11 rebounds for Slovenia. Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) and Goran Dragic (194-PG-86) accounted for 9 points apiece in defeat.

Spain: Pau Gasol 19, Serge Ibaka 12, Sergio Llull 10
Slovenia: Erazem Lorbek 10+11 boards, Jaka Lakovic 9, Goran Dragic 9

Zlatorog brings back Mali, complets roster - by Zeljko Zule
Zlatorog completed its roster for the upcoming season by bringing back Grega Mali (197-G-84). He played two seasons with the club from 2006 through 2008. Mali averaged 12.6 points and 3.7 points in 23 Slovenian League games in his final season with Zlatorog, 2007-08. Last season Mali played for Helios, where he posted 12.5 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists over 31 Telemach League games.
Zlatorog 2011-12: John Roberson (180-G-88, college: Texas Tech), Danijel Vujasinovic (180-G-89), Vladimir Panic (194-F-82, agency: 011 Sports), Grega Mali, Miha Lapornik (192-G-93), Luka Lapornik (195-G-88), Mitja Nikolic Smrdelj (201-F-91), Jaka Brodnik (203-F-92), Jure Skific (202-F/C-88), Simo Atanackovic (206-F-90), Ziga Dimec (208-C/F-93), Darko Cohadarevic (206-F-86, college: Texas Tech), Alen Omic (213-C-92). Coach: Rado Trifunovic . Assistant: Predrag Radovic .

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SOUTH KOREA

2011 Universiade. South Korea nip China in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News
China - South Korea 87:88

South Korea stole a narrow win over China on the final day of World University Games in Shenzhen. Five players scored in double figures to lead South Korea to the victory. They thus claimed the 17th place at the tournament.
South Korea were well in control throughout the opening quarter. They posted a 28:16 lead after ten minutes. But the hosts stopped the rot and narrowed the deficit in the second frame. China got as close as three points at the interval 41:44. South Korea kept their opponents at distance in the third frame. China faced a 5-point deficit into the fourth quarter. The home team trimmed the distance to just three points with under three minutes to go. But Jaehyun Park and Lee Jung-Hyun (190-F-87) sealed the victory for South Korea. Kim Mingoo (188-G-91) posted 17 points, while Choi Bu Kyung (200-F-89) delivered 16 points in the victory. Ling Chang (206-F-88) and Ren JunFei (204-C-90) answered with 20 points each for China.

China: Ling Chang 20, Ren JunFei 20+12 boards
South Korea: Kim Mingoo 17, Choi Bu Kyung 16, Lee Jung-Hyun 15

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SPAIN

Alfonso Alzamora joins Lleida - by Eurobasket News
Alfonso Alzamora (206-F/C-79) will play next season for Lleida. The experienced PF/C returned to the team where he played 10 years ago. Alzamora spent last four seasons with Manresa. In the latest one he had 3.3 ppg and 2.3 rpg in 24 games. He had the same numbers in 2009/10 season. Before Manresa, Alfonso Alzamora spent one year with Menorca. There he was used in rotation as well. For 27 games in ACB Alzamora had 3.7 ppg and 2.7 rpg. From 2004 to 2006, he was a member of Breogran and before that he played one year for Joventut. Alfonso Alzamora is a product of Barcelona. He played for them until 2000 and later from 2001 to 2003. Meanwhile, Alzamora spent one year with his new/old team Lleida.

Girona signs Willie Reed, Palencia adds Stephane Konate - by Eurobasket News
Willie Reed (206-F) is a new member of Girona. The American power forward/center signed a one-year deal with his new club. It will be his first season as a pro. Reed graduated at the Saint Louis University in 2010. He was one of their best players as a senior. For 35 games that season he had 12.4 ppg, 7.9 rpg and 2.1 bpg. Reed was awarded with All-Atlantic 10 Honorable Mention -10. In 2008/09, Reed had lower digits for his school. At that time he was averaging 7.7 points and 4.6 rebounds.
Palencia completed their roster for the next season. Their last addition is Stephane Konate (187-G-81).

Melilla brings in Eloy Almazan - by Eurobasket News
Melilla announced signing of Eloy Almazan (198-F-84) for the next season. The Spanish forward heads to his new club from Fundacion Adepal Alcazar, where he spent last two years. Almazan appeared 33 times in LEB Gold last season averaging 6.6 points and 2.9 rebounds. In 2009/10, he helped Alcazar to win the promotion from LEB Silver to LEB Gold. At that time he had 4.8 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 28 games. Alzacar was LEB Silver champion. Before Alzacar, Eloy Almazan spent two years with Cordoba. In their second season together he had 10.3 ppg and 3.7 rpg. They competed in LEB Bronze both years. In the past, Almazan also played for Caja RIoja, Montilla and Unicaja II. He reached LEB2 Finals with them in 2005.

Obradoiro CAB lands PG Milt Palacio - by Eurobasket News
Obradoiro CAB announced signing of a one-year deal with Milton Palacio (190-G-78, college: Colorado St.). The Belizean point guard heads to Obradoiro from Caja Laboral, where he finished last season. Palacio joined the Vitoria team in May averaging 1.7 points and 1.2 assists for 6 games. Milton Palacio started last season with the Greek team Kavala. He was one of their best players with 15.6 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 3.8 apg and 1.4 spg for 26 games. Palacio finished the season as the fourth scorer in A1. Eurobasket awarded him with All-Greek A1 League Honorable Mention -11 and he participated at the All-Star Game. Milton Palacio finished 2009/10 season also with Caja Laboral. He had 3.2 ppg, 1.1 rpg and 1.3 apg for them in 12 games. In the past, Palacio played for Partizan, Khimky Moscow, Utah Jazz, Toronto Raptors, Cleveland Cavaliers and Phoenix Suns. He also has experience from the Boston Celtics.

Sergio Olmos and Jorge Santana sign with Tarragona - by Eurobasket News
Sergio Olmos (213-C-86, college: Temple) and Jorge Santana (193-G-90, agency: Beo Basket) are new members of Tarragona Basket 2017. They signed deals for the next season.
Sergio Olmos heads to Tarragona from Palencia, where he spent last season. For 32 games in LEB Gold he had 4 ppg and 3.4 rpg. In 2009/10, Olmos was a member of La Palma. He graduated at Temple University in 2009.
Jorge Santana played for Tarragona last season on loan. He had 4.6 ppg, 1.2 rpg and 1.2 apg. He was originally a member of Real Madrid. In the past, he played for Real Madrid II and Gran Canaria. Santana was a member of Spanish U20, U18 and U16 National Teams in the past.

Spain hand Slovenia second straight loss - by Eurobasket News
Spain - Slovenia 79:57

Spain and Slovenia clashed in the second friendly encounter in as many days. This time the teams played in Granada but the outcome remained the same. The hosts claimed a comfortable win at the end. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) scored 19 points to lead the effort.
The teams stayed close throughout the starting period. Spain led by just three points 18:15 after ten minutes. The hosts however went on an 11:0 run in the second period to ensure a 38:28 halftime lead. Spain opened the second half on a 12:5 rally to boost the margin. Slovenia did not surrender and went on a comeback rally late in the period. They cut the deficit to just five points heading into the fourth frame 50:55. But Spain took over in the fourth quarter outscoring the visitors 24:7 and claiming a well-deserved win at the end. Serge Ibaka (208-C/F-89) stepped up with 12 points and 9 rebounds, while Sergio Llull (190-PG-87) added 10 points in the victory. Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) responded with 10 points and 11 rebounds for Slovenia. Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) and Goran Dragic (194-PG-86) accounted for 9 points apiece in defeat.

Spain: Pau Gasol 19, Serge Ibaka 12, Sergio Llull 10
Slovenia: Erazem Lorbek 10+11 boards, Jaka Lakovic 9, Goran Dragic 9

Gran Canaria land Rasual Butler - by Eurobasket News
Rasual Butler (201-F-79, college: La Salle) will continue his career in Spain. The forward has agreed on terms of contract with Gran Canaria. Last season Rasual Butler started in the Los Angeles Clippers. The forward posted 5.0 points and 1.9 rebounds per game. In February Rasual Butler moved to Chicago. He averaged 2.4 points per game for the Bulls. Previously Rasual Butler had stints with the New Orleans Hornets, Miami Heat.

Sergio Sanchez signs with Fuenlabrada - by Eurobasket News
Sergio Sanchez (190-G-81) signed two-year deal with Fuenlabrada. He played for Estudiantes since year 2005 but in 2008-2009 moved to Bruesa-Guipuzcoa BC (ACB, starting five). GBC Bruesa succeeded to ink Sergio Sanchez (190-G-81) from Estudiantes on a two-year deal. After 31 games he averaged 8.5ppg, 1.7rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 85.9%.
Last season he recorded 16 points at the Regular Season Round 20. DKV Joventut lost at home to Asefa Estudiantes 86:95. DKV Joventut trailed by 17 points at halftime and as many as 24 after three quarters before a 35-20 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 86-95 at the end of the game. The winners were led by Georgian-American guard Tyrone Ellis who scored that evening 25 points and guard Sergio Sanchez supported him with 16 points and 10 assists.
He participated at the NBA Summer league in Las Vegas previous summer as a member of Boston Celtic but he wasn't able to put his name into the NBA mix. Before Estudiantes he used to play for Huelva and Caja San Fernando Sevilla. As a member of Huelva in 2005 he was named to be the 'Guard of the Year' in LEB.

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SWEDEN

Sweden edged Albania in Tirana - by Eurobasket News
Albania-Sweden 57:68

Sweden edged Albania in Tirana for 6-1 record on top of Group B in Division B. The Swedihs National team handed Albania 68:57 loss that became the 8th for the opponents in a row.
Albania surprised the favorites with 22:16 in the opening period. Shima scored for 26:21 and Aliaj brought 31:24. Only at the end of the half Sweden woke up and Anton Gaddefors (200-F-89) closed the period at 34:34. After 25-12 in the third period Sweden took control of the game. Anton Gaddefors nailed three for 59:46 and Brice Massamba (208-F/C-88) made two free throws for 61:46 with 8 minutes to go. Pahlmblad was the last to score for the winning side to bring the 6th victory at the tournament.
Martin Pahlmblad (193-G-86) led the way with 24 points and Anton Anton Gaddefors netted 15. Brice Massamba posted 6, while Andreas Schreiber (205-C-87, agency: Dynamics Global Management), Johan Jeansson (197-G-85), Anton Saks and Thomas Brice Massamba had 5 apiece. Ermal Kuqo ended up with 16 points for the hosst and Gerti Shima (205-F/C-86) added 11. Eni Cuka (188-G-86) notched 9, while Franko Bushati (188-G-85) and Marsel Aliaj (198-F-88) delivered 6 apiece.

Albania: Ermal Kuqo 16, Gerti Shima 11, Eni Cuka 9, Franko Bushati 6, Marsel Aliaj 6
Sweden: Martin Pahlmblad 24, Anton Gaddefors 15, Brice Massamba 6, Andreas Schreiber 5, Johan Jeansson 5, Anton Saks 5, Thomas Massamba 5

Boras lands Jason Thomas - by Eurobasket News
Jason Thomas (191-G-82, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: American) is a new member of Boras. The American guard signed a deal for the next season. Thomas heads to Sweden from the Israeli team Ironi Ramat Gan. He appeared 18 times for them in National League last season averaging 8.1 points and 4.4 rebounds. Thomas played for Ironi Ramat Gan in 2009/10 as well. At that time he had 5.2 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 1.2 spg for 17 game. They competed in Premier league, but faced with relegation. Jason Thomas is a product of the American University, where he graduated in 2005. He was one of their best players as a senior with 12.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1.6 apg. Thomas was named All-Patriot League 2nd Team -05.

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SWITZERLAND

Switzerland grabbed 3-2 record in Group C after a road trip to Levice - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Republic-Switzerland 57:76

Switzerland grabbed 3-2 record after a road trip to Levice. The Swiss side outscored Slovak Republic 76:57 to hand them the third loss.
Both teams entered the game with 2-2 record and desired to take the third victory. They were tied at 7:7, while the hosts created a 7-0 run for 16:7 and then Derek Stockalper (198-G/F-84, college: Cal Poly - SLO) closed the period at 16:11. Dusan Mladjan (199-G-86, agency: Interperformances) nailed three midway through the second frame for 24:24, while Roman Marko (195-G-86) remained the hosts in front at the halftime. The second half however completely belonged to the guests. Buscaglia scored for 41:34 and the three-pointers from Jonathan Dubas (201-F/C-91) and Dusan Mladjan brought 53:42 after three quarters. Another 23-15 in the last stanza made the final difference +19 for the Swiss side.
Greg Brunner (201-C/F-83, college: Iowa) and Dusan Mladjan top-scored for the winners and 16 points each and added 18 rebounds together. Derek Stockalper notched 12, while Jonathan Dubas collected 10 points and 10 boards.

Slovak Republic: Peter Sedmak (203-C-85) 16, Roman Marko 15
Switzerland: Greg Brunner 16+16 rebs, Dusan Mladjan 16 Derek Stockalper 12, Jonathan Dubas 10+10 rebs

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TUNISIA

26th Afrobasket: Central Africa fail Tunisia test 52-65 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Central Africa Repulic Monday failed to stop 2009 third place team, Tunisia in the battle for the top seed of group-D losing by 52-65 points of the 26th Afrobasket.

The FIBA Africa Zone-4 nation lost in the first and last quarters by 13-22 and 16-23 points but manage to win by a slim margin in the second and third quarters by 14-12 and 09-08 points in a keenly contested battle of supremacy.

Tunisia veteran Radhouane led his team with 14 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists while the duo of Mourad El-Mabrouk and Marouan Kechrid added 13 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 13 points and 4 assists respectively with Central Africa Michael Mokongo leading the floor with 26 points.

Wih the results Central Africa thus end the first round series in second position as Tunisia finished first, Central Africa will now keep a date with Egypt in the eight round finals on Tuesday while Tunisia battle South Africa on Wednesday.

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TURKEY

Banvit signs big guy Cemal Nalga - by Eurobasket News
Banvit announced signing of a two-year deal with Turkish big guy Cemal Nalga (213-C-87, agency: Beo Basket). The 23-year-old Nalga heads to Banvit from Lietuvos Rytas, where he spent last season. He appeared 14 times in Euroleague with them averaging 5.6 points and 3.2 rebounds. Rytas reached Top16 and was very close to Quarterfinals. In Lithuanian league, Nalga added 2.8 ppg and 2.1 rpg. He also had 3.9 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 9 games in VTB league. Cemal Nalga split 2009/10 season between Galatasaray and ALBA Berlin. He helped ALBA to reach the EuroCup Finals. Nalga spent almost four years with Galata and before that played for Tuborg. He also was a member of the Turkish National team in 2008 and 2009.

2011 Universiade. Ukraine edge Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine - Turkey 76:71

Ukraine earned the 9th place at the World University Games in Shenzhen. They defeated Turkey tonight. Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) stepped up with 22 points and 13 rebounds to lead the winners.
Ukraine had to overcome a sloppy start. Turkey capped the opening period on a 14:2 run to take a 23:13 lead. The Turkish team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They headed into the second half up by 9 points 36:27. But Ukraine exploded with a 17:7 rally late in the third quarter to level things up at 56. Ukraine quickly cleared off to a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter and kept Turkey at bay afterwards. Dmytro Khodov (201-F-87) finished with 18 points, while Oleksandr Tischenko (206-C-89) added 13 points in the winning effort. Melih Mahmutoglu (193-G-90) responded with 16 points for Turkey. Bora Pacun (210-F-87) delivered 14 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Ukraine: Maksym Kornienko 22+13 boards, Dmytro Khodov 18, Oleksandr Tischenko 13
Turkey: Melih Mahmutoglu 16, Bora Pacun 14

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UBA

Standings

UBA Standings

Eastern
1. Cincinnati S.		0-0
2. NK Swish		0-0
3. Queen City G.		0-0
4. Seven Hills F.		0-0
5. Sharonville F.		0-0
Northern
1. Buckeye B.		0-0
2. Cleveland R.		0-0
3. Midwest M.		0-0
4. Ohio R.		0-0
5. SE Hoopstars		0-0
Southern
1. Atlanta A.		0-0
2. GIE Morrow D.		0-0
3. Nashville M.		0-0
4. S.Generals		0-0
5. Tennessee D.		0-0
Western
1. Austin K.		0-0
2. C.Texas C.		0-0
3. Cleveland H.		0-0
4. DFW Warriors		0-0
5. Houston E.		0-0
D-League
1. Irie Massive		0-0
2. Proline K.		0-0
3. Team Japan		0-0
Traveling Teams
1. Dallas Stars		0-0
2. Georgia L.		0-0

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UKRAINE

Dnipro land Fred House - by Eurobasket News
Dnipro continued to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. The team has agreed on terms of contract with Fred House (195-F-78, college: S.Utah). The forward is not new to Ukraine. He arrived in the country in 2009 to join Azovmash. Last season Fred House tallied 11.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.9 steals per game. In EuroCup the forward notched 12.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.5 steals and 1.9 assists per appearance. In VTB League Fred House registered 10.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.8 steals and 2.2 assists. The forward made it into VTB League All-Imports Team. Previously Fred House had stints in Russia, Spain, Lithuania, Serbia, USBL and NBDL. Eurobasket.com named the forward All-Serbia and Montenegro League Defensive Player of the Year in 2004 as well as All-Lithuanian League Player of the Year in 2006.

Budivelnyk confirm Suad Sehovic - by Eurobasket News
Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87) will continue his career in Ukraine. The 24-year-old forward has agreed on terms of contract with Budivelnyk. Suad Sehovic started the previous season in Union Olimpija. He got seriously injured in October and missed the bigger part of the season. After recovery Suad Sehovic inked deal with Bosna Sarajevo. He averaged 5.6 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.0 assist per game in Bosnian D1 League. Suad Sehovic is the member of Montenegrin National Team. Eurobasket.com named the player All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League Forward of the Year back in 2009. He made it into All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League 2nd Team in 2010. Suad Sehovic participated at Montenegrin B National Team Tour of China earlier this summer. He will join the National Team at 2011 EuroBasket.

2011 Universiade. Ukraine edge Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine - Turkey 76:71

Ukraine earned the 9th place at the World University Games in Shenzhen. They defeated Turkey tonight. Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) stepped up with 22 points and 13 rebounds to lead the winners.
Ukraine had to overcome a sloppy start. Turkey capped the opening period on a 14:2 run to take a 23:13 lead. The Turkish team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They headed into the second half up by 9 points 36:27. But Ukraine exploded with a 17:7 rally late in the third quarter to level things up at 56. Ukraine quickly cleared off to a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter and kept Turkey at bay afterwards. Dmytro Khodov (201-F-87) finished with 18 points, while Oleksandr Tischenko (206-C-89) added 13 points in the winning effort. Melih Mahmutoglu (193-G-90) responded with 16 points for Turkey. Bora Pacun (210-F-87) delivered 14 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Ukraine: Maksym Kornienko 22+13 boards, Dmytro Khodov 18, Oleksandr Tischenko 13
Turkey: Melih Mahmutoglu 16, Bora Pacun 14

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

UNITED KINGDOM

Australia pip Great Britain in London - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Great Britain 91:90 (OT)

Australia clinched the second position at the London Invitational Tournament. They held off Great Britain on the final day of the tournament to improve at 4-1 record. Brad Newley (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 23 points, 6 boards and 3 assists to pace the winners.
The Boomers ensured a quick start to the game. They rallied to a 21:15 lead after ten minutes. But the hosts gradually matched the tempo and narrowed the gap to 4 points at the interval. Great Britain maintained the pressure in the third frame. They got within 3 points with ten minutes to go in regulation. The Boomers cleared off to a 7-point lead with just over three minutes to go. But the hosts erupted with 9 points in a row to surge in front 80:78 with just over a minute left in regulation. Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports) answered with two free throws sending the game into overtime. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) stepped up for Great Britain early in the extra period giving those an 89:84 lead. But Australia went on a 7:1 run and snatched a tough victory at the end. Joe Ingles nailed 16 points, grabbed 5 boards and issued 4 assists, while Adam Gibson (188-G-86) provided 13 points in the win. Luol Deng (201-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) responded with 26 points and 9 rebounds for Great Britain. Joel Freeland notched 22 points in the loss.

Australia: Brad Newley 23, Joe Ingles 16, Adam Gibson 13
Great Britain: Luol Deng 26, Joel Freeland 22

Lions Pair Roar - by Paul Nilsen
The Prestige Homes MK Lions revealed their two latest signings, BOTH British ahead of the new season.

The two forwards, Carl Josey (196-G-86, college: VMI) at 6'5' and Nathan Schall at 6'7' both signed their agreements in front of an appreciative Lions crowd in excess of 700 in their friendly match against Stony Brook University.

Josey is 25 years old and hails from Surrey and played his Junior basketball at Solent and East Durham before heading over to High School in the US attending Kings Academy in Tennessee averaging 22ppg and 12rpg in both his years there. His college career at Virginia Military Institute was blighted by injury with a broken hand and broken ankle hampering his development however a year's pro experience in Iceland last year saw him average 12 points and 7 rebounds per game. An excellent three point shooter it is Josey's all action style that caught the eye of Head Coach Mike New.

Nathan Schall is 21 years old and his development has been here in the UK. At Under 18 level he won every title available with Manchester Magic in 2008 and progressed to the EBL team there where he was part of the Playoff winning team in 2009-10 alongside Stefan Gill and one more year in Manchester saw Nathan keen to make the move to the Pro level. At 6'7' and with fantastic leaping ability Nathan also shoots the ball very well and plays in aggressive fashion.

Both players will begin pre-season training with the Lions at the end of the month when the rest of the squad arrive in Milton Keynes with a few places still to be revealed by the Lions management, it is looking likely that neither of last season's favourites, Demarius Bolds and Travis nelson will return.

Cole Jetting Into Chester - by Paul Nilsen
6' 9' forward, Bill Cole (205-F-89, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) has become Coach John Lavery's latest addition to Cheshire Jets roster in the run up to the 2011/12 season.

Cole is a graduate of the University of Illinois in the USA where he made the starting five of the famous 'Fighting Illini' throughout his college career. Regarded as a versatile and accomplished defensive player, Cole can play the 3 or 4 spot interchangeably.

His coach at University used him to guard the other team's best players, regardless of their position. Cole successfully held top scorers in the NCAA Div 1 league to season lows on multiple occasions and also managed an impressive three point shooting percentage.

Jets' Head Coach John Lavery said,

'It is really great to have a player of Bill's caliber coming to the Jets. He played at a really high level last year at college and I have no doubt that he will bring his winning mentality to the Jets this year.'

Lavery added,

'He is a great defensive player for his size, and he can score both inside and outside. He also has an excellent 3 point shot for a big guy, and a very a high basketball IQ.'
Cole is also looking forward to the prospect of joining up with the Jets.

'Playing in the U.K. is very exciting to me. I am looking forward to competing for trophies, and from what I have heard from the staff at the Jets we have the team to do it this year.'

He added,

'The team goals are always first in my mind. All the individuals experience success if the team does. Personally I am looking to show my skills to the coaching staff and the league, and secure my spot as one of the top players in the league. I also want to be known to the coach and to the fans as the hardest worker - the guy who hustled, was prepared to dive on the floor and never took a play off.'

Cole joins the familiar faces of Matt Schneck and Colin O'Reilly on the roster with additional players due to be added very soon.

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VTB UNITED LEAGUE

Budivelnyk confirm Suad Sehovic - by Eurobasket News
Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87) will continue his career in Ukraine. The 24-year-old forward has agreed on terms of contract with Budivelnyk. Suad Sehovic started the previous season in Union Olimpija. He got seriously injured in October and missed the bigger part of the season. After recovery Suad Sehovic inked deal with Bosna Sarajevo. He averaged 5.6 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.0 assist per game in Bosnian D1 League. Suad Sehovic is the member of Montenegrin National Team. Eurobasket.com named the player All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League Forward of the Year back in 2009. He made it into All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League 2nd Team in 2010. Suad Sehovic participated at Montenegrin B National Team Tour of China earlier this summer. He will join the National Team at 2011 EuroBasket.

Dnipro land Fred House - by Eurobasket News
Dnipro continued to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. The team has agreed on terms of contract with Fred House (195-F-78, college: S.Utah). The forward is not new to Ukraine. He arrived in the country in 2009 to join Azovmash. Last season Fred House tallied 11.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.9 steals per game. In EuroCup the forward notched 12.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.5 steals and 1.9 assists per appearance. In VTB League Fred House registered 10.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.8 steals and 2.2 assists. The forward made it into VTB League All-Imports Team. Previously Fred House had stints in Russia, Spain, Lithuania, Serbia, USBL and NBDL. Eurobasket.com named the forward All-Serbia and Montenegro League Defensive Player of the Year in 2004 as well as All-Lithuanian League Player of the Year in 2006.

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WORLD UNIVERSITY GAMES

Serbia celebrate title in Shenzhen - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

Serbia - Canada 68-55
Serbia regained the World University Games title. They prevailed against Canada in the championship game in Shenzhen tonight. Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 17 points to lead the charge. Canada stayed in charge in the opening quarter. The North American team posted a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. Canada maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They arrived at halftime up by two points 34:32. But Serbia opened the second half on an 8:2 run to surge ahead. The European team gradually boosted the margin arriving at the final break up by 9 points 49:40. Serbia stayed aggressive and kept their opponents at distance throughout the fourth frame. Canada failed to get within striking distance in the final quarter as Serbia coasted to the victory at the end. Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) posted 11 points, while Marko Ljubicic (195-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) notched 9 points in the winning effort. Nathan Yu (189-PG-89) and Tyson Hinz (199-F-91) answered with 14 points each in the loss.

3-4 place

Lithuania - Russia 76-74
Lithuania stepped on the pedestal at World University Games. They held off Russia in the consolation final. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-PG-87) scored 25 points to pace the winners. Russia cleared off late in the opening term to post a 19:14 lead. Evgeny Pashutin team stretched the gap to 10 points midway through the second frame. Russia established a 35:24 halftime advantage. But Lithuania bounced back in the third term. The Baltic team erased the deficit in the third term and eked out a 48:46 lead at the final intermission. Gediminas Orelikas (200-G/F-90) and Kadzevicius boosted the margin to 5 points late in regulation 71:66. But Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) and Dmitry Golovin sank five free throws to draw things level at 71. Gediminas Orelikas converted a three-point play but Petr Gubanov and Savelyev levelled things up again at 74. Stanionis got fouled and dropped two free throws to put Lithuania in front 76:74 with four seconds remaining. Savelyev missed a buzzer-beater and Lithuania escaped with victory at the end. Gediminas Orelikas posted 16 points, while Julius Jucikas added 9 points in the win. Petr Gubanov answered with 24 points for Russia. Anatoly Kashirov (215-C-87) had 17 points and 8 rebounds in the loss.

5-6 place

USA - Germany 86-83
USA wrapped up their World University Games campaign with victory. They held off Germany in a thrilling battle to occupy the fifth overall position. Trevor Mbakwe (203-F-89) stepped up with 21 points and 8 rebounds to pace the winners. USA and Germany traded baskets throughout close first quarter. The lead changed hands before Germany posted a 21:19 lead after ten minutes. The European team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. Germany arrived at halftime up by a single point 41:40. Jamychal Green (206-F-90) scored 10 points in the third frame allowing USA to take a 64:61 lead heading into the fourth frame. Trevor Mbakwe helped the United States build an 11-point lead midway through the fourth stanza. Johannes Lischka (203-F/C-87) drained a pair of triples late in regulation as Germany got within three points but USA stayed calm as Gibbs and Trevor Mbakwe sealed the winning outcome from the charity stripe. John Jenkins (193-G-91) scored 15 points, while Jamychal Green added 12 points for the winners. Johannes Lischka responded with 28 points for Germany. Bastian Doreth (183-G-89) notched 12 points in the loss.

7-8 place

Finland - Romania 76-69
Finland celebrated the victory on the final day of the World University Games in Shenzhen. They overcame Romania to clinch the seventh overall position. Antti Kanervo (193-G/F-89) scored 21 points to pace the winners. Finland jumped ahead early in the encounter and ensured 23:20 lead at the first break. The teams stayed close throughout the second quarter. Finland hung on to establish a 39:38 halftime lead. Romania denied the deficit late in the third quarter. They drew things level at 55 heading into the fourth period. Vlad Moldoveanu (207-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances, college: American) put Romania in front 67:65 with three minutes to go in regulation. But Roope Ahonen stepped up with nine points in the reminder of the contest carrying Finland to the victory. He finished with 20 points, while Matti Nuutinen (200-F-90) added 11 points in the win. Titus Nicoara (202-F-88, agency: Interperformances) answered with 18 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for Romania. Vlad Moldoveanu delivered 17 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

9-10 place

Ukraine - Turkey 76-71
Ukraine earned the 9th place at the World University Games in Shenzhen. They defeated Turkey tonight. Maksym Kornienko (205-F/C-87) stepped up with 22 points and 13 rebounds to lead the winners. Ukraine had to overcome a sloppy start. Turkey capped the opening period on a 14:2 run to take a 23:13 lead. The Turkish team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They headed into the second half up by 9 points 36:27. But Ukraine exploded with a 17:7 rally late in the third quarter to level things up at 56. Ukraine quickly cleared off to a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter and kept Turkey at bay afterwards. Dmytro Khodov (201-F-87) finished with 18 points, while Oleksandr Tischenko (206-C-89) added 13 points in the winning effort. Melih Mahmutoglu (193-G-90) responded with 16 points for Turkey. Bora Pacun (210-F-87) delivered 14 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

11-12 place

Czech Republic - Japan 94-81
Czech Republic ended their World University Games campaign with victory. They toppled Japan to clinch the 11th overall position. Patrik Auda (205-F-89) stepped up with 27 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort. The teams got to a flying start. They traded baskets eagerly throughout the opening frame. Japan eked out a 29:28 lead after ten minutes. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the second frame. Czech Republic gained a narrow 47:44 lead at the interval. The Czech team finally cleared off in the third stanza. The Europeans arrived at the final pause up by 10 points 68:58. Czech Republic unloaded 26 points in the fourth period and rolled to the victory at the end. Tomas Macela (179-G-88) and Vojtech Hruban (200-F-89) delivered 15 points apiece in the win. Kosuke Kanamaru (193-F/G-89) answered with 17 points for Japan. Ruymo Ono (197-F/C-88) had 14 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.

13-14 place

Israel - Brazil 60-65
Brazil registered victory on the final day of World University Games tournament. They held off Israel to claim the 13th position. Frederico Santos (91) posted 13 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort. Brazil posted a 17:15 lead at the first break. But Israel bounced back and levelled things up at 32 at halftime. Israel pulled in front in the third quarter. They ensured a 48:41 lead heading into the fourth period. Brazil turned things around in the fourth stanza. The Latin American side erased the deficit and finished the game strongly stealing a tough win at the end. Lucas Nogueira (213-C-92) had 13 points, while Fabricio Melo (212-C-90) and Rafael Stabile (F-88) delivered 10 points apiece in the victory. Ben Rice (195-F-90) and Gilad Karni (195-F/G-87, agency: Avi Zilberman) answered with 13 points each in the loss.

15-16 place

Australia - Mexico 71-68
Australia overcame Mexico on the final day of action at World University Games in China. The Aussies thus earned the 15th place at the tourney. Clinton Steindl (200-F-89) registered 15 points to lead the effort. Mexico looked better in the starting frame. They established a 19:14 lead after ten minutes. The Latin American team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They posted a 31:25 halftime lead. Australia managed to narrow the gap in the third quarter. They cut the deficit at 4 points 42:46 entering the fourth frame. Australia got within striking distance in the dying minutes and eventually snatched a difficult win at the end. Matthew Hodgson (211-C-91) provided 14 points for Australia. Cameron Gliddon (196-G/F-89) delivered 11 points in the win. Francisco Cruz (191-G-89) answered with 15 points for Mexico. Israel Nolasco (205-C-89) had 12 points in the loss.

17-18 place

China - South Korea 87-88
South Korea stole a narrow win over China on the final day of World University Games in Shenzhen. Five players scored in double figures to lead South Korea to the victory. They thus claimed the 17th place at the tournament. South Korea were well in control throughout the opening quarter. They posted a 28:16 lead after ten minutes. But the hosts stopped the rot and narrowed the deficit in the second frame. China got as close as three points at the interval 41:44. South Korea kept their opponents at distance in the third frame. China faced a 5-point deficit into the fourth quarter. The home team trimmed the distance to just three points with under three minutes to go. But Jaehyun Park and Lee Jung-Hyun (190-F-87) sealed the victory for South Korea. Kim Mingoo (188-G-91) posted 17 points, while Choi Bu Kyung (200-F-89) delivered 16 points in the victory. Ling Chang (206-F-88) and Ren JunFei (204-C-90) answered with 20 points each for China.

19-20 place

Hungary - United Arab Emirates 84-62
Hungary overcame UAE on the final day of action at World University Games. The victory sealed the 19th-place finish for the winners. Mate Mohacsi (192-F-90) scored 20 points and collected 8 rebounds to pace the effort. UAE jumped to an early lead but Hungary quickly denied the deficit. The European team posted a 25:16 lead ten minutes into the game. Hungary opened a double-digit lead early in the second term and maintained it well throughout the period. Hungary mounted the pressure in the third term and eased to a 20-point lead at the final break 68:48. UAE did not recover in the fourth frame and had to surrender at the end. Peter Szabo (183-G-89) posted 19 points, while Zoltan Supola (190-G-88, agency: FCM) added 18 points in the win. Qais Alshabebi (200-F-91) responded with 21 points for UAE. Mohamed AlBraiki (205-C-91) netted 17 points in defeat.

21-22 place

New Zealand - Hong Kong 92-61
New Zealand finished their World University Games campaign on a high note. The Kiwis thumped Hong Kong to earn the 21st place at the tournament. Marco Alexander (186-G-91) scored 25 points to lead the charge. New Zealand fired 27 points in the opening term to build a 9-point lead. The Kiwis cleared off in the second frame. They built a 22-point halftime advantage. New Zealand went on a 13:4 run to open the third stanza. Hong Kong never recovered in the reminder of the contest as New Zealand cruised to the victory at the end. Justin Richard Edwards (197-F-90) posted 24 points, while Dion Prewster (195-G/F-91, college: Stephen F. Austin) added 15 points and 7 rebounds in the winning effort. Hong Kong answered with 23 points from Lee Ki (177-PG-87). Chan Yik Lun (190-G-87) had 11 points in defeat.

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Women News

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ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women

Lebanon find China too hot and hard to handle - by Maarouf Mawloud
For a team playing only their second ever game in Level I, Lebanon did well to boost their morale in the early part of the game against defending champions China even going ahead at the end of the first quarter.

But as things would have it, China probably yet to recover completely from the draining Double Overtime defeat to Korea last night came into their own in the second quarter and coasted along for a 79-58 win.

Lebanon lead 19-13 at the end of the first quarter and when their naturalized center Brittany Denson capped a three-point play and followed it up with a three-pointer the WABA team was ahead 25-19.

Ma Zengyu (pic above) took charge of the proceedings on Chinas behalf at this stage fired in two three-pointers to spark what eventually turned out to be a 13-0 run A run that took the winds off Lebanons sails.

Ma Zengyu went on to score a dozen points, all of them in the second quarter.

I am happy to help the team when the situation demands, Ma said.

Youngster Gao Song led Chinas scoring with a 19-point effort, was yet unsatisfied with her performance and was seen sobbing at the end of the game.

Thats the spirit of the youngster who feels she hasnt done enough, said China coach Sun Fengwu.

Its good and bad. Good because she (Gao) feels could have done better, bad because she cant express it better than crying, he chuckled.

But as long as she feels she can improve and carry it further by working hard, she has a great future.

Lebanon did manage to remain close on the scoreboard, but whether it would have been easy if Nan Chen and Miao Lijie both the veterans were benched for the whole game had played was a question that would a long way in answering Lebanons long-term aspirations.

It was a great experience to play against a team like China, said Lebanon coach Elie Nasr .

Our aim is to retain ourselves in Level I. All other games are a part of our learning process to achieve that target, said senior Lebanon player Nayla Alameddine.

24th Asia Championship. Day 2 in Omura - by Eurobasket News
LEVEL 1

Japan-Chinese Taipei 81:54

Japan jumped on 2-0 record in Level I at the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women. Japan outscored Chinese Taipei 81:54 in the last game of Day 2.
Fumikazu Nakagawas team scored the first seven points of the game, built up a 9-point lead in the first five minutes and went on to close the first quarter 17 points ahead, from where they never looked back. Sachiko ISHIKAWA scored for 34:12 and Al MITANI increased to 44:18. After 22-21 in the second frame Japan had 49:31 at the halftime. Japan also scored 22 points in the third frame, but they limited the opponents to just 11 points. Chinese Taipei however won the last period 12-10 to reduce to 27 points.
Yuka Mamiya (183-C/F-90) (183-C/F-90) stepped up with 14 points, while Maki Takada (183-C-89) notched 13. Yoko Nagi (175-F-82) and Yuko Oga (170-G-82) followed them with 11 points each. Liu Chun-Yi (180-F/C-81) posted 13 points in defeat, whilst Lin Chi-Wen (186-C-83) nailed 9.

Lebanon-China 58:79

China celebrated the first victory at the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women. After the pity loss from South Korea in the opener, China beat Lebanon 79:58.
It seemed the loss from South Korea shocked China that trailed in the first period also with Lebanon. The latter grabbed 19:13 as Chada Nasr (174-G-83) made free throws to close the first frame. Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) nailed three for 25:25 in the second frame and China had 39:35 halftime advantage. The lead continued to grow in the third quarter as China pushed the tempo for good. Gao Song (190-F-92) scored for 49:41 and she also brought 58:47. After 21-11 in the last stanza the Chinese team celebrated the victory and improved to 1-1 record.
Gao Song paced all the winners with 19 points, while Guan Xin (196-C-87) and Ma Zengyu added 12 each. Brittany Janelle Brittany Denson (192-C-87, college: S.Florida) responded with 24 points in the losing case and Chada Nasr posted 10.

India-South Korea 47:83

South Korea achieved the second straight win at the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women. The team overcame India 83:47 winning all the quarters.
South Korea had difficulties to score in the first few minutes and only Kim Jung Eun (180-F-87) gave 3:2 lead. Geethu Anna Jose (185-C-85) tied the game at 6:6, while Mi Sun LEE scored for 17:10. In the second period South Korea proved their dominance and erupted with 24-10 for 19 points lead at the halftime. Kim Youn Joo (178-F-86) nailed three for plus 23 and she also closed the third quarter at 63:39. Another 20-8 in the last stanza brought the comfortable victory for the favorites.
Kang Ajeong (180-F-89) stepped up with 17 points for the winners and Kim Danbi (180-F-90) netted 13. Kim Youn Joo notched 12, while Kim Jung Eun posted 10. Geethu Anna Jose replied with 27 points and 10 rebounds in defeat and Anitha Pauldurai (170-G-85) added 8.

LEVEL2
Uzbekistan - Sri Lanka 82:50

Uzbekistan registered the second straight win at Asian Championship in Japan. They overcame Sri Lanka to stay on top of Level II standings at 2-0 record. Yelena Khusnitdinova (85) scored 17 points and grabbed 6 rebounds to pace the winners. Sri Lanka fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Uzbekistan stunned their opponents in the opening quarter. They limited Sri Lanka to just 6 points in the period to record 20:6 lead. Uzbekistan stayed well in control throughout the second frame. They piled up a comfortable 43:18 halftime lead. Sri Lanka showed some signs of recovery in the third term. They outscored Uzbekistan to narrow the gap. But the Uzbek team unleashed 27 points in the final period and rallied to a confident win at the end. Irina Polunina (176-G-79) provided 14 points, while Ekaterina Obechkina (182-F-85) had 11 points and 10 boards in the win. Erabdi Gallage (86) answered with 11 points and 12 rebounds for Sri Lanka. Enanayake netted 10 points in the loss.

Kazakhstan - Indonesia 87:69

Kazakhstan kept their ambitions alive at Asia Championship in Japan. They rebounded after the starting loss to Malaysia to tame Indonesia on Day 2. Anastassiya Alishauskaite (170-G-88) scored 17 points to lead the effort. The Kazakh team improved at 1-1 record and caught up with Indonesia in Level II ladder.
Kazakhstan set the tone early in the game. They erupted for 30 points in the opening frame to build a 17-point cushion. Kazakhstan maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They secured a 50:31 halftime advantage. Indonesia failed to change the complexion of the encounter after the big break. Kazakhstan stayed in charge posting a 76:51 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Kazakhstan loosened the grasp in the fourth frame allowing Indonesia to sweeten the pill at the end. Tamara Seregina (182-F-90) and Yulia Korotkaya (175-G-77) delivered 16 points each in the victory. Wulan Ningrum (174-G/F-85) responded with game-high 31 points for Indonesia. Jacklien Ibo (175-F-90) finished with 15 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.

Malaysia - Singapore 91:26

Malaysia registered the second consecutive win at the start of Asia Championship in Japan. They dismantles Singapore to stay on top of Level II ladder. Siew Teng Ang (174-87) came up with 25 points to pace the winners. Singapore slipped at 0-2 record after the loss.
Malaysia held their opponents scoreless in the first quarter. The margin grew at 24 points at the first break. Malaysia kept on scoring eagerly in the second period. They established a 48:7 halftime lead. Malaysia did not slow down after the big break. They dominated in every facet of the game breezing to a comprehensive win at the end. Wei Yin Saw (166-PG-92) and Beng Fong Goh (165-G-82) contributed 10 points each in the victory. Lim Jiamin (167-PG-91) and Tan Sarah (173-F-91) responded with 6 points each for Singapore.

Standings

Group A
1. Japan		2-0
2. S.Korea		2-0
3. China		1-1
4. Taiwan		1-1
5. India		0-2
6. Lebanon		0-2
Group B
1. Malaysia		2-0
2. Uzbekistan.		2-0
3. Indonesia		1-1
4. Kazakhstan.		1-1
5. Singapore		0-2
6. Sri Lanka		0-2

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Gladstone Power wins 2011 QBL - by Eurobasket News
Final
Gladstone - Bundaberg 110:97

2011 QBL AWARD WINNERS - WOMEN

Most Valuable Player Nicole Romeo (168-G-89, college: Washington) Rockhampton Cyclones
Coach of the Year - Wade Rebetzke Mackay Meteorettes

Womens All League Team
Jessica Bibby (169-G-79) Gladstone Power
Nicole Romeo Rockhampton Cyclones
Rachel Allison (185-F-87, college: Baylor) Mackay Meteorettes
Rohanee Cox (182-F-80) Cairns Dolphins
Cayla Francis (192-C-89) Cairns Dolphins

Grand Final MVP Natalie Hurst (163-G-83) Gladstone Power

Leading Scorer Jessica Bibby Gladstone Power 32.94ppg
Leading Rebounder Cayla Francis Cairns Dolphins 19.42rpg
Steals Leader - Yvonne Turner (174-G-87, college: Nebraska) Bundaberg Bears 5.24spg
Assists Leader Nicole Romeo Rockhampton Cyclones 6.17apg
Leading Shot Blocker - Cayla Francis Cairns Dolphins 3.25bpg
Leading Field Goal % - Emma Kopcikas Gold Coast Rollers 51.75%
Leading Free Throw % - Nicole Romeo Rockhampton Cyclones 85.29%
Leading 3 Point % - Nicole Romeo Rockhampton Cyclones 45.16%

U23 Youth Player of the Year Cayla Francis Cairns Dolphins
Courtesy of: QBL

Big V: Eltham captured a one-nil lead on the back of a 60-56 win in game one of the grand final series - by Eurobasket News
Try as they might, and it was a mighty hard try, the Tigers have it all before them after Eltham captured a one-nil lead on the back of a 60-56 win in game one of the grand final series.
ROUND UP SCW
GRAND FINAL
The Wildcats are just one win away from going from dead last to the top rung in the space of one season, but following a spirited clash against Melbourne in game one, this series is far from over. Though the Wildcats have had the upper hand over Melbourne during the regular season, there's nothing like the finals to bring out the best in players, just ask Mel-bourne's Alice Hammond (178-G/F-83, college: Carl Albert JC) (21pts)! From the outset Hammond and her team of young stars, plus the ex-perienced and very reliable Tegan Fowler, ensured that the highly-fancied Wildcats would not get things all their own way.
With scores remaining close, the key difference in this one was Zoe Carr - every time a bit of grunt work was needed, up bobbed Carr and her numbers (in a close, physical game) suggested that there was no way she was leaving the building without a win. Time and again, Carr delivered. Hew prowess inside the paint oozed experience and determination. Hibbert was also important at key times and, as has been the case all season, Olivia Bontempelli (179-93) showed no fear, regu-larly dropping big baskets and setting things up for her Wildcats mates.
www.bigv.com.au

GRAND FINAL GAME 1
Eltham 60 defeated Melbourne 56 Eltham lead the series 1-0.
If Melbourne can convert, the inten-sity and pressure they brought to game one could prove decisive if they can produce it again this weekend. All up Eltham coughed the ball up 19 times last week, compared with Mel-bourne's 10 turnovers.
There's no denying Melbourne were brave in this one and if they can muster the strength to hard again in game two, perhaps they can send this match-up to a Sunday decider. Hammond will need to produce again, while Fowler (2/9) and Zammit (2/8) will need to convert their opportunities at a better clip. A key question for the Tigers this Satur-day is who do they take to the SCW game and who do they send to the SYCW game? Both Tigers' outfits are down a game and the likes of Izzy B and Steph Collins can't be in two places at once.
While plenty of talk centres on the impending retirement of Froggy Hibbert, word has it that Zoe Carr is also about to hang up the boots and clearly she wants to go out on top as her 20pts and 14rbs suggest.
Though the scoreboard sits in Eltham's favour, there was much to like about the Tigers in game one. A close contest throughout, the Tigers coaching staff knows that the end re-sult was a direct reflection of the shooting between both teams - the Wildcats going at a healthy 49% com-pared with Melbourne's 32%.
Courtesy of: www.bigv.com.au

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BULGARIA - Women

Beroe 07 signs Marieta Karchovska and Margarita Ilieva - by Eurobasket News
Marieta Karchovska (171-G-86) and Margarita Ilieva (189-C-88, agency: Promotex) are new members of Beroe 07. They signed deals for the next season.
Marieta Karchovska heads to Beroe from Montana 2003, she spent last four years. She had 4.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 26 NBL games last season. Karchovska had almost the same numbers in 2008/09 and 2009/10. In the past, she played for Dunav winning the Bulgarian Cup with them in 2009.
Margarita Ilieva moves to Berore from Lukoil Neftochimik. She had 3.3 ppg and 2.1 rpg for them in 11 games last season. Ilieva also played for Lukoil from 2005 to 2009. In the meantime, she spent one year in Italy as a member of Passalacqua Spedizioni Ragusa (A2).

U16 Latvia wins the Bronze in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 LATVIA - U16 BULGARIA 84-52

Latvia won the Bronze at the U16 EuroBasket Division B. They outplayed Bulgaria 84-52 in the last day of the competition to win third place. Bulgaria ended as No.4 and stays without the medal. Katrina Visnevica (171-G-95) came up with 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) had 18 points and 6 boards, while Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) helped with 10 points. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) shined in defeat with 28 points and 6 boards. Yana Jekova (172-G/F-96) was their second scorer with only 6 pts. Quarters: 20-11, 18-11, 22-20, 24-10. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They grabbed 66-63 victory against UK in the Finals.

Latvia: Katrina Visnevica 19+6 boards, Kitija Laksa 18+6 boards, Kate Kreslina 10
Bulgaria: Borislava Hristova 28+6 boards, Yana Jekova 6

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CHINA - Women

China celebrated the first victory at the 24th FIBA Asia Championship - by Eurobasket News
Lebanon-China 58:79

China celebrated the first victory at the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women. After the pity loss from South Korea in the opener, China beat Lebanon 79:58.
It seemed the loss from South Korea shocked China that trailed in the first period also with Lebanon. The latter grabbed 19:13 as Chada Nasr (174-G-83) made free throws to close the first frame. Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) nailed three for 25:25 in the second frame and China had 39:35 halftime advantage. The lead continued to grow in the third quarter as China pushed the tempo for good. Gao Song (190-F-92) scored for 49:41 and she also brought 58:47. After 21-11 in the last stanza the Chinese team celebrated the victory and improved to 1-1 record.
Gao Song paced all the winners with 19 points, while Guan Xin (196-C-87) and Ma Zengyu added 12 each. Brittany Janelle Brittany Denson (192-C-87, college: S.Florida) responded with 24 points in the losing case and Chada Nasr posted 10.

Lebanon: Brittany Denson 24, Chada Nasr 10
China: Gao Song 19, Guan Xin 12, Ma Zengyu 12

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CROATIA - Women

U16 Croatia survives in Division A, U16 Poland fails - by Eurobasket News
U16 CROATIA - U16 POLAND 78-65

It was a do-or-die game for both teams. Croatia was better than Poland 78-65 end both countries finished with 3-3 record in Group G. Thanks to this win Croatia ended as No.2 in this pool and survived in Division A. Poland dropped to third place and they will compete in Division B next year. Inja Butina (170-PG-95) led Croatia with 23 points and 7 assists. Antonija Chiabov (190-C-95) also was great adding 19 points and 13 rebounds, while Ivana Matic (181-F-95) helped with 15 pts. In Poland, Angelika Stankiewicz (170-G-95) was better than the others with 21 points. Magdalena Szajtauer (188-F-95) had 11 points and 12 boards. Quarters: 16-18, 23-8, 18-15, 21-24. Spain is the gold medal winners in Cagliari. They finished with perfect 9-0 record.

Croatia: Inja Butina 23+7 as, Antonija Chiabov 19+13 boards, Ivana Matic 15
Poland: Angelika Stankiewicz 21, Magdalena Szajtauer 11+12 boards

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

U16 Holland takes ninth place in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 CZECH REPUBLIC - U16 HOLLAND 49-56

Holland finished as tenth ranked team of U16 EuroBasket 2011. They were better than Czech Republic 56-49 in the last day of the championship in Cagliari to win this spot. Czech Republic ended as No.11 Britt Zappeij (184-C-95) was the leading player in victory with 12 points and 5 rebounds. Emese Hof (188-C-96) had 10 points and 7 boards, while Klaziena Guijt (173-G-95) helped with 9 points. In defeat, Kamila Hoskova (174-F-95) delivered 14 points. Mariana Opocenska (183-F-95) followed with 9 pts. Quarters: 12-4, 10-11, 16-24, 11-17. Spain won the Gold in Cagliari. They handed 67-43 loss to Belgium in the Finals.

Czech Republic: Kamila Hoskova 14, Mariana Opocenska 9
Holland: Britt Zappeij 12+5 boards, Emese Hof 10+7 boards, Klaziena Guijt 9

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DENMARK - Women

Denmark ends as No.11 in Arad, Switzerland is No.12 - by Eurobasket News
U16 SWITZERLAND - U16 DENMARK 60-70

Denmark celebrated 70-60 win against Switzerland in the last day of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Arad. Thanks to this win Denmark finished as No.11 of this event. Switzerland ended as twelfth ranked team. Sofie Preetzmann (180-G-95) stepped up in Denmark with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Frederikke Mollerup (177-G-95) had 16 points and 6 rebounds, while Julie Hoeier (185-C-95) added 10 points, plus 11 boards. In the loosing squad, Dijana Milenkovic (180-F-96) delivered 27 points. Tiffanie Zali (182-F-95) had 14 points and 8 rebs. Quarters: 22-22, 18-14, 8-17, 12-17. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They grabbed 66-63 win against United Kingdom in the Big Final.

Switzerland: Dijana Milenkovic 27, Tiffanie Zali 14+8 boards
Denmark: Sofie Preetzmann 20+9 boards, Frederikke Mollerup 16+6 boards, Julie Hoeier 10+11 boards

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ESTONIA - Women

U16 Slovenia takes ninth place in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 SLOVENIA - U16 ESTONIA 59-45

Slovenia was better than Estonia 59-45 in the last day of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Arad. Thanks to this win Slovenia ended as No.9 at this event. Estonia finished as tenth ranked team. Eva Lisec (191-C-95) top-scored in Slovenia with 13 points. Larisa Ocvirk (184-F-97) and Anja Valentincic (181-F-95) helped with 12 points and 8 rebounds each. In defeat, Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) had 19 points and 9 rebounds. Their second scorer was Marie Roosalu (177-F-96) (8 rebs) with 7 points. Quarters: 13-11, 15-11, 21-10, 10-13. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They grabbed 66-63 win against Belgium in the Big Final.

Slovenia: Eva Lisec 13, Larisa Ocvirk 12+8 boards, Anja Valentincic 12+8 boards
Estonia: Trine Kasemagi 19+9 boards, Marie Roosalu 7+8 boards

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16 - Women

Germany is the winner of Division B in Arad - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

United Kingdom - Germany 63-66
Germany grabbed 66-63 thriller win against United Kingdom in the Big Final of U16 Eurobasket Division B in Arad. Germany won the Gold and this event, while Silver belongs to UK. Both teams earned a promotion for Division A, where they will compete next year. Ama Degbeon (183-F-95) led Germany in scoring with 17 points. Noemie Rouault (180-F-95) had 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) helped with 12 points and 6 assists. In the loosing squad, Jay-Ann Bravo-Harriott (183-PG-95) was much better than the others with 24 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Leah McDerment (180-PG-96) (5 as) and Cheridene Green (187-C-95) scored 13 and 12 points respectively. It was a very exciting game until the end. UK had the last possession, but they missed for 3-pts. Quarters: 15-20, 14-16, 16-16, 18-14.

Places 3-4

Latvia - Bulgaria 84-52
Latvia won the Bronze at the U16 EuroBasket Division B. They outplayed Bulgaria 84-52 in the last day of the competition to win third place. Bulgaria ended as No.4 and stays without the medal. Katrina Visnevica (171-G-95) came up with 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) had 18 points and 6 boards, while Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) helped with 10 points. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) shined in defeat with 28 points and 6 boards. Yana Jekova (172-G/F-96) was their second scorer with only 6 pts. Quarters: 20-11, 18-11, 22-20, 24-10. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They grabbed 66-63 victory against UK in the Finals.

Places 5-6

Lithuania - Ukraine 83-68
Lithuania finished as the fifth ranked team of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Arad. They outplayed Ukraine 83-68 in the last day of the competition to take this spot. Of course, Ukraine ended as No.6 at this event. Austeja Sirsinaityte (164-PG-95) (6 as) and Simona Baciulyte (172-G-95) led the winners with 19 points each. Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) secured a great help adding 16 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists. In the loosing squad, Nataliya Skorbatyuk (183-F-95) top-scored with 22 points. Oksana Batrakova (186-C-95) shined with 17 points and 15 boards. Quarters: 16-21, 31-13, 17-18, 19-16. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They beat Belgium 66-63 in the Big Final.

Places 7-8

Romania - Portugal 54-62
Portugal was too strong for Romania 62-54 in the last day of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Arad. Thanks to this win Portugal ended as No.7 of this event. The host Romania finished as No.8. Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) (6 rebs) and Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) led the winners with 15 points each. Mafalda Pereira (180-F-95) followed her with 13 points and 6 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Paula Lenart (178-F-96) was better than the others with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Bianca Blanaru (193-C-95) had 11 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 13-19, 13-16, 11-13, 17-14. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They grabbed 66-63 win against Belgium in the Big Final.

Places 9-10

Slovenia - Estonia 59-45
Slovenia was better than Estonia 59-45 in the last day of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Arad. Thanks to this win Slovenia ended as No.9 at this event. Estonia finished as tenth ranked team. Eva Lisec (191-C-95) top-scored in Slovenia with 13 points. Larisa Ocvirk (184-F-97) and Anja Valentincic (181-F-95) helped with 12 points and 8 rebounds each. In defeat, Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) had 19 points and 9 rebounds. Their second scorer was Marie Roosalu (177-F-96) (8 rebs) with 7 points. Quarters: 13-11, 15-11, 21-10, 10-13. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They grabbed 66-63 win against Belgium in the Big Final.

Places 11-12

Switzerland - Denmark 60-70
Denmark celebrated 70-60 win against Switzerland in the last day of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Arad. Thanks to this win Denmark finished as No.11 of this event. Switzerland ended as twelfth ranked team. Sofie Preetzmann (180-G-95) stepped up in Denmark with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Frederikke Mollerup (177-G-95) had 16 points and 6 rebounds, while Julie Hoeier (185-C-95) added 10 points, plus 11 boards. In the loosing squad, Dijana Milenkovic (180-F-96) delivered 27 points. Tiffanie Zali (182-F-95) had 14 points and 8 rebs. Quarters: 22-22, 18-14, 8-17, 12-17. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They grabbed 66-63 win against United Kingdom in the Big Final.

Places 14-15

Luxembourg - Ireland 60-45
Luxembourg was better than Ireland 60-45 in the last day of U16 EuroBasket in Arad. Thanks to this win Luxembourg avoided last place at this event ending it as No.14. Luxembourg made 3-1 record in Group G, while Ireland ended with poor 0-4. Mia Pauly (176-F-96) came up with 18 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Charlie Bidinger (167-G-95) scored 10 points, while Alexa Sanelli (174-F-95) added 8 pts. In defeat, Jennifer Sheehan (170-PG-95) delivered 11 points. Their second scorer was Samantha Massey (178-C-95) with 9 pts. Quarters: 10-13, 6-13, 28-6, 16-13. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They grabbed 69-66 win against UK.

Standings - Div.B - by Eurobasket News

Standings Div.B

Group E
1. U.Kingdom		4-1
2. Portugal		4-1
3. Latvia		2-3
4. Ukraine		2-3
5. Slovenia		2-3
6. Estonia		1-4
Group F
1. Germany		5-0
2. Lithuania		4-1
3. Bulgaria		2-3
4. Romania		2-3
5. Denmark		2-3
6. Switzerland		0-5
Group G
1. Israel		3-1
2. Luxembourg		3-1
3. Ireland		0-4

Div B. - by Greg

Points Per Game

Borislava HRISTOVA
(180-F-96)
Avg: 26.5

1. Hristova, BUL	26.5
2. Stach, GER	19.3
3. Rouault, GER	18.5
4. Preetzmann, DEN	16.8
5. Belickaite, LTU	16.7
6. Skorbatyuk, UKR	15.5
7. Ferreira, POR	15.0
8. Soeiro, POR	14.7
9. Zali, SUI	14.0
10. Bravo-H., ENG	14.0

Rebounds Per Game

Noemie ROUAULT
(180-F-95)
Avg: 16.7

1. Rouault, GER	16.7
2. Antonyuk, UKR	13.7
3. Green, ENG	11.0
4. Kasemagi, EST	10.6
5. Monakana, ENG	10.3
6. Lisec, SLO	10.2
7. Batrakova, UKR	10.2
8. Pauly, LUX	9.8
9. Putramentait., LTU	9.2
10. Preetzmann, DEN	8.6

Assists Per Game

Emma lina STACH
(175-PG-96)
Avg: 5.2

1. Stach, GER	5.2
2. Sirsinaityte, LTU	3.5
3. Aha, GER	3.3
4. Bravo-H., ENG	3.0
5. Soeiro, POR	3.0
6. Belickaite, LTU	2.8
7. Tamp, EST	2.8
8. McDerment, ENG	2.7
9. Joseph, ENG	2.7
10. Kreslina, LAT	2.5

Steals Per Game

Dalia BELICKAITE
(175-F-96)
Avg: 4.7

1. Belickaite, LTU	4.7
2. Gavrila, ROM	4.5
3. Crowley, IRL	4.0
4. Mollerup, DEN	3.8
5. Preetzmann, DEN	3.4
6. Banet, ISR	3.3
7. Soeiro, POR	3.2
8. Porat, ISR	3.0
9. Sapir, ISR	2.8
10. Hristova, BUL	2.7

Blocks Per Game

Bianca BLANARU
(193-C-95)
Avg: 3.8

1. Blanaru, ROM	3.8
2. Avram, ROM	3.2
3. Batrakova, UKR	2.5
4. Zali, SUI	2.0
5. Mizgeryte, LTU	1.3
6. Antonyuk, UKR	1.3
7. Skorbatyuk, UKR	1.2
8. Miscenko, LAT	1.2
9. Dzarcane, LAT	1.0
10. Hoeier, DEN	1.0

W-Standings - Div.A

Standings

Group E
1. Belgium		4-1
2. Sweden		4-1
3. Russia		4-1
4. Greece		2-3
5. Czech Rep.		1-4
6. Slovakia		0-5
Group F
1. Spain		5-0
2. Italy		3-2
3. Turkey		3-2
4. France		2-3
5. Holland		2-3
6. Hungary		0-5
Group G
1. Serbia		5-1
2. Croatia		3-3
3. Poland		3-3
4. Finland		1-5

Stats Leaders W - Group A

Points Per Game

Sanja MANDIC
(177-G-95)
Avg: 22.7

1. Mandic, SRB	22.7
2. Ben Abdelkad., BEL	18.9
3. Stamolamprou, GRE	17.1
4. Hruscakova, SVK	16.4
5. Zandalasini, ITA	15.4
6. Crvendakic, SRB	15.4
7. Chiabov, CRO	15.2
8. Arrojo, ESP	14.7
9. Hoskova, CZE	14.4
10. Butina, CRO	14.1

Rebounds Per Game

Hulya COKLAR
(188-C-95)
Avg: 11.1

1. Coklar, TUR	11.1
2. Hruscakova, SVK	10.4
3. Szajtauer, POL	9.8
4. Magarity, SWE	9.6
5. Chiabov, CRO	9.2
6. Kone, FRA	9.2
7. Gaye, FRA	8.8
8. Telenga, POL	8.4
9. Lammerink, NED	8.3
10. Crvendakic, SRB	8.2

Assists Per Game

Inja BUTINA
(170-PG-95)
Avg: 5.3

1. Butina, CRO	5.3
2. Mandic, SRB	3.9
3. Ben Abdelkad., BEL	3.3
4. Akbas, TUR	3.1
5. Kyratzi, GRE	3.0
6. Allemand, BEL	2.9
7. Marangoni, ITA	2.9
8. Pavlopoulou, GRE	2.7
9. Matuskova, SVK	2.6
10. Dudasova, SVK	2.5

Steals Per Game

Leticia ROMERO
(174-F-95)
Avg: 3

1. Romero, ESP	3.0
2. Jamsa, FIN	2.8
3. Mandic, SRB	2.6
4. Butina, CRO	2.6
5. Hanson, SWE	2.4
6. Lizarazu, ESP	2.4
7. Nagy, HUN	2.3
8. Pujol, ESP	2.1
9. Palenikova, SVK	2.1
10. Pisera, POL	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Aleksandra CRVENDAKIC
(187-C/F-96)
Avg: 3

1. Crvendakic, SRB	3.0
2. Chiabov, CRO	2.9
3. Zarevuckaa, SVK	1.9
4. Gaye, FRA	1.7
5. Pobozy, POL	1.3
6. Arrojo, ESP	1.2
7. Zandalasini, ITA	1.2
8. Linskens, BEL	1.1
9. Opocenska, CZE	1.0
10. Magarity, SWE	0.9

Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U16 Division B Awards 2011 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-Tournament 1st Team

Rouault

Stach

Bravo-Harriott

Hristova

Green

MVP: Noemie Rouault (180-F-95) of Germany
Best Guard: Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) of Germany
Best Forward: Noemie Rouault (180-F-95) of Germany
Best Center: Cheridene Green (187-C-95) of United Kingdom
Best Defensive Player: Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) of Lithuania
Best Coach: Patrick Bar of Germany

1st Team
PG: Emma lina Stach (175-96) of Germany
PG: Jay-Ann Bravo-Harriott (183-95) of United Kingdom
F: Noemie Rouault (180-95) of Germany
F: Borislava Hristova (180-96) of Bulgaria
C: Cheridene Green (187-95) of United Kingdom

2nd Team
G: Sofie Preetzmann (180-95) of Denmark
G: Laura Ferreira (177-95) of Portugal
F: Dalia Belickaite (175-96) of Lithuania
F: Alina Hartmann (182-95) of Germany
C: Oksana Batrakova (186-95) of Ukraine

3rd Team
PG: Joana Soeiro (170-95) of Portugal
G: Frederikke Mollerup (177-95) of Denmark
F: Mia Pauly (176-96) of Luxembourg
F: Nataliya Skorbatyuk (183-95) of Ukraine
C: Tetyana Antonyuk (184-95) of Ukraine

Honorable Mention
Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) of Latvia
Noa Zelivanski (168-PG-96) of Israel
Austeja Sirsinaityte (164-PG-95) of Lithuania
Shequila Joseph (189-F-95) of United Kingdom
Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) of Estonia
Simina Avram (190-C-95) of Romania
Bianca Blanaru (193-C-95) of Romania
Eva Lisec (191-C-95) of Slovenia
Tiffanie Zali (182-F-95) of Switzerland

Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U16 Awards 2011 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-Tournament 1st Team

Ben Abdelkader

Arrojo

Romero

Zandalasini

Coklar

MVP: Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-G/F-95) of Belgium
Best Guard: Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-G/F-95) of Belgium
Best Forward: Maria Arrojo (186-F-85) of Spain
Best Center: Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) of Turkey
Best Defensive Player: Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-C/F-96) of Serbia
Best Coach: Evaristo Perez of Spain

1st Team
G/F: Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-95) of Belgium
F: Maria Arrojo (186-85) of Spain
F: Leticia Romero (174-95) of Spain
F: Cecilia Zandalasini (182-96) of Italy
C: Hulya Coklar (188-95) of Turkey

2nd Team
G: Sanja Mandic (177-95) of Serbia
PG: Inja Butina (170-95) of Croatia
F: Regan Magarity (187-96) of Sweden
F: Kamila Hoskova (174-95) of Czech Rep.
C/F: Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-96) of Serbia

3rd Team
PG: Julie Allemand (173-96) of Belgium
PG: Busra Akbas (168-95) of Tukey
F: Assitan Kone (191-95) of France
F: Magdalena Szajtauer (188-95) of Poland
C: Antonija Chiabov (190-95) of Croatia

Honorable Mention
Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) of Slovakia
Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) of Spain
Gabriella Hanson (180-G-95) of Sweden
Ekaterina Ilinova (178-G) of Russia
Elisa Penna (185-F-95) of Italy
Mousdandy Djaldi-Tabdi (184-F-95) of France
Anna Stamolamprou (165-PG-95) of Greece
Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) of Finland

Division A: Spain wins the Gold in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

Belgium - Spain 43-67
Spain is the winner of U16 EuroBasket 2011. They outplayed Belgium 67-43 in the Big Final to take the Gold. Spain finished this event with perfect 9-0 record. Silver belongs to Belgium, what is also great result. Maria Arrojo (186-F-85) paced Spain to victory with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Leticia Romero (174-F-95) had 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, while Yaiza Rodriguez (163-PG-95) helped with 10 points. In Belgium, Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-G/F-95) was better than the others with 18 points. Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) had 8 points and 5 rebounds in this defeat. Spain opened the game with 12-21 lead, but Belgium responded with 18-12 in the second period. Spain took control on their rival after the breather making 9-14 in third and impressive 4-20 in the last quarter for the final 43-67 victory and gold medal in Cagliari.

Places 3-4

Italy - Turkey 82-48
Italy won the Bronze at the U16 EuroBasket in Cagliari. The host of this event blasted Turkey 82-48 to take third place. Turkey stays without the medal. Elisa Penna (185-F-95) and Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) led the hosts with 18 points each. Penna grabbed 6 rebounds beside that. Antonia Peresson (183-PG-95) helped her country with 16 points in this meeting. On the other side, Busra Akbas (168-PG-95) delivered 14 points. Their second best player was Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) with double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds. Quarters: 21-11, 25-11, 21-10, 15-16. Spain won the Gold in Cagliari. They celebrated 67-43 win in the Finals against Belgium.

Places 5-6

Russia - Greece 65-71
Greece finished as the fifth ranked team of U16 EuroBasket. They outplayed Russia 71-65 in the last day of the competition in Cagliari to take this spot. Of course Russia ended as No.6. Anna Stamolamprou (165-PG-95) exploded with 31 points for the winners. Eleni Kyratzi (170-PG-95) had 13 and Dimitra Tsavou (182-F-96) helped with 11 points, plus 10 boards. In the loosing squad, Yana Degtyarskaya (178-F-95) shined with 19 points and 7 rebounds. Their second scorers were Ekaterina Tsukanova (183-F-95) (5 rebs) and Polina Fedorova (188-F-95) with 9 points each. Quarters: 15-19, 11-19, 23-21, 16-12. Spain won the Gold in Cagliari. They blasted Belgium in the Finals 67-43.

Places 7-8

France - Sweden 47-38
France finished as the seventh ranked team of U16 EuroBasket. They handed 47-38 loss to Sweden in the last day of the competition in Cagliari to take this spot. Sweden finished as No.8. Lysa Millavet (186-F-95) stepped up for the winners with 12 points. Berengere Dinga-Mbomi (174-G-95) and Fleur Devillers (181-PG-95) were their second scorers with 9 points each. In the loosing squad, Regan Magarity (187-F-96) collected 13 points and 9 boards. Sofia Svensson (176-G/F-95) had 6 points for 7 minutes on the court. Quarters: 13-11, 18-8, 10-7, 6-12. Spain is the gold medal winner in Cagliari. They cruised past Belgium in the Finals 67-34.

Places 9-10

Czech Republic - Holland 49-56
Holland finished as tenth ranked team of U16 EuroBasket 2011. They were better than Czech Republic 56-49 in the last day of the championship in Cagliari to win this spot. Czech Republic ended as No.11 Britt Zappeij (184-C-95) was the leading player in victory with 12 points and 5 rebounds. Emese Hof (188-C-96) had 10 points and 7 boards, while Klaziena Guijt (173-G-95) helped with 9 points. In defeat, Kamila Hoskova (174-F-95) delivered 14 points. Mariana Opocenska (183-F-95) followed with 9 pts. Quarters: 12-4, 10-11, 16-24, 11-17. Spain won the Gold in Cagliari. They handed 67-43 loss to Belgium in the Finals.

Places 11-12

Hungary - Slovakia 47-58
Slovakia outplayed Hungary 58-47 in the last day of U16 EuroBasket in Cagliari. Thanks to this win Slovakia ended as No.11 of this event. Hungary finished as twelfth ranked team. Terezia Palenikova (170-PG-95) shined for Slovakia with 15 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) had double-double of 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Nikola Dudasova (169-PG-95) added 13 pts for the winners. In the loosing squad, Vivien Borondy (170-PG-95) netted 12 points. Their second scorer was Fanni Bodnar (178-F-95). Quarters: 11-14, 15-16, 13-12, 8-16. Spain won the Gold at this event. They outplayed Belgium in the Finals 67-43.

Places 13-16

Serbia - Finland 72-58
Serbia survived in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They outplayed Finland 72-58 in the last day of the competition winning Group G with almost perfect 5-1 record. On the other side, Finland ended as the last ranked team of this pool with 1-5 score and they faced with relegation. Sanja Mandic (177-G-95) once again was a key player in Serbia scoring 22 points. Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-C/F-96) had 18 points and Julijana Vojinovic (96) added 9 pts, plus 7 rebs. In the loosing squad, Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) delivered 24 points. Moona Hamalainen (184-F/C-95) had 9 pts and 8 boards. Quarters: 15-15, 20-19, 20-13, 17-11. Spain won the Gold in Cagliari. They finished this event with perfect 9-0 record.

Croatia - Poland 78-65
It was a do-or-die game for both teams. Croatia was better than Poland 78-65 end both countries finished with 3-3 record in Group G. Thanks to this win Croatia ended as No.2 in this pool and survived in Division A. Poland dropped to third place and they will compete in Division B next year. Inja Butina (170-PG-95) led Croatia with 23 points and 7 assists. Antonija Chiabov (190-C-95) also was great adding 19 points and 13 rebounds, while Ivana Matic (181-F-95) helped with 15 pts. In Poland, Angelika Stankiewicz (170-G-95) was better than the others with 21 points. Magdalena Szajtauer (188-F-95) had 11 points and 12 boards. Quarters: 16-18, 23-8, 18-15, 21-24. Spain is the gold medal winners in Cagliari. They finished with perfect 9-0 record.

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FINLAND - Women

U16 Serbia survives in Division A, U16 Finland faces with relegation - by Eurobasket News
U16 SERBIA - U16 FINLAND 72-58

Serbia survived in U16 EuroBasket Division A. They outplayed Finland 72-58 in the last day of the competition winning Group G with almost perfect 5-1 record. On the other side, Finland ended as the last ranked team of this pool with 1-5 score and they faced with relegation. Sanja Mandic (177-G-95) once again was a key player in Serbia scoring 22 points. Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-C/F-96) had 18 points and Julijana Vojinovic (96) added 9 pts, plus 7 rebs. In the loosing squad, Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) delivered 24 points. Moona Hamalainen (184-F/C-95) had 9 pts and 8 boards. Quarters: 15-15, 20-19, 20-13, 17-11. Spain won the Gold in Cagliari. They finished this event with perfect 9-0 record.

Serbia: Sanja Mandic 22, Aleksandra Crvendakic 18, Julijana Vojinovic 9+7 boards
Finland: Anni Jamsa 24, Moona Hamalainen 9+8 boards

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FRANCE - Women

U16 France beats U16 Sweden 47-38 for seventh place in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 FRANCE - U16 SWEDEN 47-38

France finished as the seventh ranked team of U16 EuroBasket. They handed 47-38 loss to Sweden in the last day of the competition in Cagliari to take this spot. Sweden finished as No.8. Lysa Millavet (186-F-95) stepped up for the winners with 12 points. Berengere Dinga-Mbomi (174-G-95) and Fleur Devillers (181-PG-95) were their second scorers with 9 points each. In the loosing squad, Regan Magarity (187-F-96) collected 13 points and 9 boards. Sofia Svensson (176-G/F-95) had 6 points for 7 minutes on the court. Quarters: 13-11, 18-8, 10-7, 6-12. Spain is the gold medal winner in Cagliari. They cruised past Belgium in the Finals 67-34.

France: Lysa Millavet 12, Berengere Dinga-Mbomi 9, Fleur Devillers 9
Sweden: Regan Magarity 13+9 boards, Sofia Svensson 6

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GERMANY - Women

Djokovic becomes a HELI-Girl - by Juliane Hoehne
Nina Djokovic (184-C/F-87, college: Bethel (TN)) is the newest signee of Heli Donau-Ries Noerdlingen for the upcoming season. The 24-year old Serbian plays the Forward position and can play inside and out. She comes from the Spanish 2nd league team Orion-GDKO Ibaizabal Galdakao, where she averaged last season 9.7ppg, and 4.4rpg in 51 games. Before her first professional season, she played four years for Bethel University, where she averaged her Senior season 12.3ppg and 9.4rpg and achieved the membership of the 1000-point club at her University. With the signing of Djokovic, the team of Heli Donau-Ries Noerdlingen is complete, and further signings might be only made during the season.

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GREECE - Women

U16 Greece takes fifth place in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 RUSSIA - U16 GREECE 65-71

Greece finished as the fifth ranked team of U16 EuroBasket. They outplayed Russia 71-65 in the last day of the competition in Cagliari to take this spot. Of course Russia ended as No.6. Anna Stamolamprou (165-PG-95) exploded with 31 points for the winners. Eleni Kyratzi (170-PG-95) had 13 and Dimitra Tsavou (182-F-96) helped with 11 points, plus 10 boards. In the loosing squad, Yana Degtyarskaya (178-F-95) shined with 19 points and 7 rebounds. Their second scorers were Ekaterina Tsukanova (183-F-95) (5 rebs) and Polina Fedorova (188-F-95) with 9 points each. Quarters: 15-19, 11-19, 23-21, 16-12. Spain won the Gold in Cagliari. They blasted Belgium in the Finals 67-43.

Russia: Yana Degtyarskaya 19+7 boards, Ekaterina Tsukanova 9+5 boards, Polina Fedorova 9
Greece: Anna Stamolamprou 31, Eleni Kyratzi 13, Dimitra Tsavou 11+10 boards

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HOLLAND - Women

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HUNGARY - Women

U16 Slovakia too much for U16 Hungary, takes 11th place in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 HUNGARY - U16 SLOVAKIA 47-58

Slovakia outplayed Hungary 58-47 in the last day of U16 EuroBasket in Cagliari. Thanks to this win Slovakia ended as No.11 of this event. Hungary finished as twelfth ranked team. Terezia Palenikova (170-PG-95) shined for Slovakia with 15 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) had double-double of 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Nikola Dudasova (169-PG-95) added 13 pts for the winners. In the loosing squad, Vivien Borondy (170-PG-95) netted 12 points. Their second scorer was Fanni Bodnar (178-F-95). Quarters: 11-14, 15-16, 13-12, 8-16. Spain won the Gold at this event. They outplayed Belgium in the Finals 67-43.

Hungary: Vivien Borondy 12, Fanni Bodnar 9
Slovakia: Terezia Palenikova 15+8+ boards+5 as, Zofia Hruscakova 14+12 boards, Nikola Dudasova 13

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INDIA - Women

South Korea achieved the second straight win at the 24th FIBA Asia Championship - by Eurobasket News
India-South Korea 47:83

South Korea achieved the second straight win at the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women. The team overcame India 83:47 winning all the quarters.
South Korea had difficulties to score in the first few minutes and only Kim Jung Eun (180-F-87) gave 3:2 lead. Geethu Anna Jose (185-C-85) tied the game at 6:6, while Mi Sun LEE scored for 17:10. In the second period South Korea proved their dominance and erupted with 24-10 for 19 points lead at the halftime. Kim Youn Joo (178-F-86) nailed three for plus 23 and she also closed the third quarter at 63:39. Another 20-8 in the last stanza brought the comfortable victory for the favorites.
Kang Ajeong (180-F-89) stepped up with 17 points for the winners and Kim Danbi (180-F-90) netted 13. Kim Youn Joo notched 12, while Kim Jung Eun posted 10. Geethu Anna Jose replied with 27 points and 10 rebounds in defeat and Anitha Pauldurai (170-G-85) added 8.

India: Geethu Anna Jose 27+10 rebs, Anitha Pauldurai 8
South Korea: Kang Ajeong 17, Kim Danbi 13, Kim Youn Joo 12, Kim Jung Eun 10

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INDONESIA - Women

Kazakhstan beat Indonesia in Omura - by Eurobasket News
Kazakhstan - Indonesia 87:69

Kazakhstan kept their ambitions alive at Asia Championship in Japan. They rebounded after the starting loss to Malaysia to tame Indonesia on Day 2. Anastassiya Alishauskaite (170-G-88) scored 17 points to lead the effort. The Kazakh team improved at 1-1 record and caught up with Indonesia in Level II ladder.
Kazakhstan set the tone early in the game. They erupted for 30 points in the opening frame to build a 17-point cushion. Kazakhstan maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They secured a 50:31 halftime advantage. Indonesia failed to change the complexion of the encounter after the big break. Kazakhstan stayed in charge posting a 76:51 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Kazakhstan loosened the grasp in the fourth frame allowing Indonesia to sweeten the pill at the end. Tamara Seregina (182-F-90) and Yulia Korotkaya (175-G-77) delivered 16 points each in the victory. Wulan Ningrum (174-G/F-85) responded with game-high 31 points for Indonesia. Jacklien Ibo (175-F-90) finished with 15 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.

Kazakhstan: Anastassiya Alishauskaite 17, Tamara Seregina 16, Yulia Korotkaya 16
Indonesia: Wulan Ningrum 31, Jacklien Ibo 15

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IRELAND - Women

U16 Luxembourg avoids last place in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 LUXEMBOURG - U16 IRELAND 60-45

Luxembourg was better than Ireland 60-45 in the last day of U16 EuroBasket in Arad. Thanks to this win Luxembourg avoided last place at this event ending it as No.14. Luxembourg made 3-1 record in Group G, while Ireland ended with poor 0-4. Mia Pauly (176-F-96) came up with 18 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Charlie Bidinger (167-G-95) scored 10 points, while Alexa Sanelli (174-F-95) added 8 pts. In defeat, Jennifer Sheehan (170-PG-95) delivered 11 points. Their second scorer was Samantha Massey (178-C-95) with 9 pts. Quarters: 10-13, 6-13, 28-6, 16-13. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They grabbed 69-66 win against UK.

Luxembourg: Mia Pauly 18+13 boards, Charlie Bidinger 10, Alexa Sanelli 8
Ireland: Jennifer Sheehan 11, Samantha Massey 9

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ITALY - Women

U16 Italy wins the Bronze in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
U16 ITALY - U16 TURKEY 82-48

Italy won the Bronze at the U16 EuroBasket in Cagliari. The host of this event blasted Turkey 82-48 to take third place. Turkey stays without the medal. Elisa Penna (185-F-95) and Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) led the hosts with 18 points each. Penna grabbed 6 rebounds beside that. Antonia Peresson (183-PG-95) helped her country with 16 points in this meeting. On the other side, Busra Akbas (168-PG-95) delivered 14 points. Their second best player was Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) with double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds. Quarters: 21-11, 25-11, 21-10, 15-16. Spain won the Gold in Cagliari. They celebrated 67-43 win in the Finals against Belgium.

Italy: Elisa Penna 18+6 boards, Cecilia Zandalasini 18, Antonia Peresson 16
Turkey: Busra Akbas 14, Hulya Coklar 10+11 boards

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JAPAN - Women

Japan jumped on 2-0 record in Level I - by Eurobasket News
Japan-Chinese Taipei 81:54

Japan jumped on 2-0 record in Level I at the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women. Japan outscored Chinese Taipei 81:54 in the last game of Day 2.
Fumikazu Nakagawas team scored the first seven points of the game, built up a 9-point lead in the first five minutes and went on to close the first quarter 17 points ahead, from where they never looked back. Sachiko ISHIKAWA scored for 34:12 and Al MITANI increased to 44:18. After 22-21 in the second frame Japan had 49:31 at the halftime. Japan also scored 22 points in the third frame, but they limited the opponents to just 11 points. Chinese Taipei however won the last period 12-10 to reduce to 27 points.
Yuka Mamiya (183-C/F-90) stepped up with 14 points, while Maki Takada (183-C-89) notched 13. Yoko Nagi (175-F-82) and Yuko Oga (170-G-82) followed them with 11 points each. Liu Chun-Yi (180-F/C-81) posted 13 points in defeat, whilst Lin Chi-Wen (186-C-83) nailed 9.

Japan: Yuka Mamiya 14, Maki Takada 13, Yoko Nagi 11, Yuko Oga 11
Chinese Taipei: Liu Chun-Yi 13, Lin Chi-Wen 9

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KAZAKHSTAN - Women

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LATVIA - Women

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LEBANON - Women

Lebanon find China too hot and hard to handle - by Maarouf Mawloud
For a team playing only their second ever game in Level I, Lebanon did well to boost their morale in the early part of the game against defending champions China even going ahead at the end of the first quarter.

But as things would have it, China probably yet to recover completely from the draining Double Overtime defeat to Korea last night came into their own in the second quarter and coasted along for a 79-58 win.

Lebanon lead 19-13 at the end of the first quarter and when their naturalized center Brittany Denson capped a three-point play and followed it up with a three-pointer the WABA team was ahead 25-19.

Ma Zengyu (pic above) took charge of the proceedings on Chinas behalf at this stage fired in two three-pointers to spark what eventually turned out to be a 13-0 run A run that took the winds off Lebanons sails.

Ma Zengyu went on to score a dozen points, all of them in the second quarter.

I am happy to help the team when the situation demands, Ma said.

Youngster Gao Song led Chinas scoring with a 19-point effort, was yet unsatisfied with her performance and was seen sobbing at the end of the game.

Thats the spirit of the youngster who feels she hasnt done enough, said China coach Sun Fengwu.

Its good and bad. Good because she (Gao) feels could have done better, bad because she cant express it better than crying, he chuckled.

But as long as she feels she can improve and carry it further by working hard, she has a great future.

Lebanon did manage to remain close on the scoreboard, but whether it would have been easy if Nan Chen and Miao Lijie both the veterans were benched for the whole game had played was a question that would a long way in answering Lebanons long-term aspirations.

It was a great experience to play against a team like China, said Lebanon coach Elie Nasr .

Our aim is to retain ourselves in Level I. All other games are a part of our learning process to achieve that target, said senior Lebanon player Nayla Alameddine.

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LITHUANIA - Women

U16 Lithuania takes fifth place in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 LITHUANIA - U16 UKRAINE 83-68

Lithuania finished as the fifth ranked team of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Arad. They outplayed Ukraine 83-68 in the last day of the competition to take this spot. Of course, Ukraine ended as No.6 at this event. Austeja Sirsinaityte (164-PG-95) (6 as) and Simona Baciulyte (172-G-95) led the winners with 19 points each. Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) secured a great help adding 16 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists. In the loosing squad, Nataliya Skorbatyuk (183-F-95) top-scored with 22 points. Oksana Batrakova (186-C-95) shined with 17 points and 15 boards. Quarters: 16-21, 31-13, 17-18, 19-16. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They beat Belgium 66-63 in the Big Final.

Lithuania: Austeja Sirsinaityte 19+6 as, Simona Baciulyte 19, Dalia Belickaite 16+13 boards+6 as
Ukraine: Nataliya Skorbatyuk 22, Oksana Batrakova 17+15 boards

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LUXEMBOURG - Women

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MALAYSIA - Women

Malaysia thrash Singapore in Omura - by Eurobasket News
Malaysia - Singapore 91:26

Malaysia registered the second consecutive win at the start of Asia Championship in Japan. They dismantles Singapore to stay on top of Level II ladder. Siew Teng Ang (174-87) came up with 25 points to pace the winners. Singapore slipped at 0-2 record after the loss.
Malaysia held their opponents scoreless in the first quarter. The margin grew at 24 points at the first break. Malaysia kept on scoring eagerly in the second period. They established a 48:7 halftime lead. Malaysia did not slow down after the big break. They dominated in every facet of the game breezing to a comprehensive win at the end. Wei Yin Saw (166-PG-92) and Beng Fong Goh (165-G-82) contributed 10 points each in the victory. Lim Jiamin (167-PG-91) and Tan Sarah (173-F-91) responded with 6 points each for Singapore.

Malaysia: Siew Teng Ang 25, Wei Yin Saw 10, Beng Fong Goh 10
Singapore: Lim Jiamin 6, Tan Sarah 6

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NCAA1 - Women

Arxil lands rookie Jessika Bradley - by Eurobasket News
Jessika Bradley (190-F-88) is set to start her professional basketball career. The American forward penned a one-year deal with CB Arxil. She graduated at the San Diego State University few months ago. For 28 games as a senior Bradley had 9 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 2.5 apg and 2.6 bpg. She was named All-MWC 3rd Team -11. In 2009/10 season Bradley also was good. In 34 games that season she had 7.2 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 1.9 bpg. Jessika Bradley transferred to San Diego State from Baylor in 2008. She was redshirted one year due to transfer. Bradley played two years for Baylor.

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POLAND - Women

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PORTUGAL - Women

U16 Portugal beats U16 Romania 62-54 for seventh place in Arad - by Eurobasket News
U16 ROMANIA - U16 PORTUGAL 54-62

Portugal was too strong for Romania 62-54 in the last day of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Arad. Thanks to this win Portugal ended as No.7 of this event. The host Romania finished as No.8. Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) (6 rebs) and Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) led the winners with 15 points each. Mafalda Pereira (180-F-95) followed her with 13 points and 6 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Paula Lenart (178-F-96) was better than the others with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Bianca Blanaru (193-C-95) had 11 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 13-19, 13-16, 11-13, 17-14. Germany won the Gold in Arad. They grabbed 66-63 win against Belgium in the Big Final.

Romania: Paula Lenart 15+10 boards, Bianca Blanaru 11+10 boards
Portugal: Laura Ferreira 15+6 boards, Joana Soeiro 15, Mafalda Pereira 13+6 boards

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ROMANIA - Women

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RUSSIA - Women

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SERBIA - Women

UNB Obenasa Lacturale adds Jovana Rad - by Eurobasket News
Jovana Rad (187-F/C-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas) is a new member of UNB Obenasa Lacturale. The Serbian power forward/center signed a deal for the next season. Rad is not a new face in Spain as she spent last three years with Hondarribia-Irun. She appeared 26 times in LFB last season averaging 10 points and 3.4 rebounds. In 2009/10, Jovana Rad had 7.1 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 12 games. Rad shined for Hondarribia-Irun in their first season together with 12.3 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 1.4 apg for 26 games. In the past, she played for the Serbian team Spartak Subotica. Rad is also a member of the Serbian National Team. In 2009, she played for the Serbian University National Team. In the past Rad also played for U20 Serbia.

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SINGAPORE - Women

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SLOVAKIA - Women

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SLOVENIA - Women

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SOUTH KOREA - Women

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SPAIN - Women

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SRI LANKA - Women

Uzbekistan post second straight win in Omura - by Eurobasket News
Uzbekistan - Sri Lanka 82:50

Uzbekistan registered the second straight win at Asian Championship in Japan. They overcame Sri Lanka to stay on top of Level II standings at 2-0 record. Yelena Khusnitdinova (85) scored 17 points and grabbed 6 rebounds to pace the winners. Sri Lanka fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Uzbekistan stunned their opponents in the opening quarter. They limited Sri Lanka to just 6 points in the period to record 20:6 lead. Uzbekistan stayed well in control throughout the second frame. They piled up a comfortable 43:18 halftime lead. Sri Lanka showed some signs of recovery in the third term. They outscored Uzbekistan to narrow the gap. But the Uzbek team unleashed 27 points in the final period and rallied to a confident win at the end. Irina Polunina (176-G-79) provided 14 points, while Ekaterina Obechkina (182-F-85) had 11 points and 10 boards in the win. Erabdi Gallage (86) answered with 11 points and 12 rebounds for Sri Lanka. Enanayake netted 10 points in the loss.

Uzbekistan: Yelena Khusnitdinova 17, Irina Polunina 14, Ekaterina Obechkina 11+10 boards
Sri Lanka: Erabdi Gallage 11+12 boards, Herath Enanayake 10

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SWEDEN - Women

Uppsala signs Agnes Nordstrom - by Eurobasket News
Agnes Nordstrom (181-G-88) will continue her career with Uppsala. The Swedish guard penned a one-year deal with her new club. She returns to Sweden after one year abroad, which she spent with Spanish Gran Canaria. For 21 games in LFB Nordstrom had 3.9 ppg and 2.8 rpg. In EuroCup she added 4.2 ppg and 3.3 rpg for 6 games. Granca reached Quarterfinals in this competition. Season 2009/10, Agnes Nordstrom spent with 08 Stockholm. She helped them win Damligan title that year. For 21 games in the league Nordstrom shined with 13.5 ppg, 6.6 rpg, 2.8 apg and 1.5 spg. For her performance she was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Swedish Damligan 2nd Team -10. In the past, Agnes Nordstrom played for Marbo and Visby. She is active member of the Swedish National Team.

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SWITZERLAND - Women

Riva signed two new imports - by Melanie Nussbaumer
After signing back Fabrizio Rezzonico at the head of the team, Riva Basket hired two new import: Shannon McCallum (177-G-87, college: Charlotte), graduated of University of North Carolina-Charlotte, where she averaged last season 13,0 ppg, 5,3 rpg and 2,9 apg. She will be helped by Rhona McKenzie (183-F-76, agency: LBM Management), who has 3 years of experience of the Swiss league, with team Sdent Sierre Basket. She played in Belgium for team DBC Houthalen in 2010-2011. She scored 7,0 ppg, 13,4 rpg and 1,0 apg.

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TAIWAN - Women

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TURKEY - Women

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UKRAINE - Women

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UZBEKISTAN - Women

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WNBA - Women

Montgomery helps Sun beat Dream to end 2game skid - by Eurobasket News
Renee Montgomery (5'7''-G-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) had 21 points and seven assists Sunday, and the Connecticut Sun snapped a two-game losing streak with a 96-87 victory over the Atlanta Dream.

Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) and Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) had 18 points and nine rebounds apiece for the Sun (17-10), while Tan White scored 11 of her 13 points in the fourth quarter.

Kara Lawson added 11 for the Sun.

Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) led Atlanta (13-13) with 22 points. Erika DeSouza added 17 points and 10 rebounds.

Lindsey Harding had 14 points for the Dream and Arminite Price scored 12.

Courtesy of www.kxnet.com

Douglas leads Fever past Mystics, 83-51 - by Eurobasket News
Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) scored 15 points and had five rebounds to lead the Indiana Fever over the Washington Mystics 83-51 on Sunday.

Jessica Davenport (6'5''-C-85, college: Ohio St.) scored 14 points and had five rebounds and Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) scored 13 points with eight rebounds for the Fever, who lead the Eastern Conference by two games.

The Fever limited the Mystics to 35.2 percent shooting and forced 19 turnovers. The 51-point performance is the third-lowest total in the league this season and Indiana's 31-point victory margin was the second-largest.

'Our defense was very disruptive,' Fever coach Lin Dunn said. 'We spent lots of energy with our press. It was a good win over a good team.'

Douglas broke out of a slump with her most points since scoring 20 on July 13.

'You're just going to have up and down moments and thankfully I was able to get on track tonight,' Douglas said. 'I was just happy we were able to have such a big win and I think we were doing some great things on the defensive end and on the offensive end. When we start playing well on both ends of the floor, we're a hard team to beat.'

Crystal Langhorne (6'2''-F/C-86, college: Maryland) scored 11 points and had seven rebounds and Jasmine Thomas scored 11 points for the Mystics, who have lost five straight games.

The Fever improved to 4-0 this season against Washington, racing to a 14-2 lead to start the game and building a 79-47 lead at one point late in the fourth quarter.

'They totally outplayed us,' Langhorne said. 'We have lost games, but this one was bad. We need to play harder and not turn the ball over. Things weren't pretty.'

Courtesy of www.signonsandiego.com

Sparks rally, hand Shock record 18th straight loss - by Eurobasket News
Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) scored 23 points and the Los Angeles Sparks ran off 16 straight points to overcome a 15-point, second-half deficit and hand the Tulsa Shock their WNBA-record 18th consecutive loss with a 73-67 victory on Sunday night.

Delisha Milton-Jones (6'1''-F-74, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Florida) added 15 points and Kristi Toliver (5'7''-G-87, college: Maryland) had 14 for the Sparks. WNBA career scoring leader Tina Thompson scored all of her eight points in the second half.

For the first 22 minutes of the game, Tulsa took advantage of the jet-lagged Sparks, who played in Minnesota on Saturday and flew to Tulsa on Sunday, building a 39-24 lead with 7:01 to play in the third stanza.

But the Sparks outscored the home team 38-20 over the final 17 minutes to post just their fourth road victory of the season.

Courtesy of www.kxnet.com

Standings

WNBA Standings

Eastern
1. Indiana F.		19-8
2. Connecticut S.		17-10
3. New York L.		15-12
4. Atlanta D.		13-13
5. Chicago S.		12-14
6. Washington M.		5-20
Western
1. Minnesota L.		20-6
2. Phoenix M.		15-10
3. Seattle S.		14-12
4. S.Antonio SS		13-12
5. L.Angeles S.		11-15
6. Tulsa S.		1-23