Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/30/2011

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Men News

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ABA

ABA provides exemption to NBA players - by Gianni Pascucci
Just after the announcement of George Hill joining the Texas Fuel during the NBA lockout, the American Basketball Association announced that it is providing its teams with exemptions for NBA players who want to play during the NBA lockout.
'We've had many calls from our teams and NBA players as well as their agents/reps about the use of NBA players during the lockout,' stated Dick Packer, ABA President/COO. 'We definitely welcome having NBA players on our teams. It is a great way for them to stay in shape and to play competitively as well as being able to play in the US. We decided not to include NBA players added to rosters under the salary cap or the 12-man roster limitation. We do not want the exemption to cost any ABA players their positions on their team. This exemption will exist during the NBA lockout only.' Packer added, 'As an example, I received an email from a Player Representative saying,...'...my client, xxxx was drafted in the second round by the xxxxxx in this year's NBA draft. We are looking at options to keep him playing during the NBA lockout. The ABA represents a very interesting and viable option for some of my clients...I would like to get in touch in regards to possibilities. Thanks.' 'I spoke with the rep who has over 40 NBA players and we are going to work together to find teams for the players during the lockout.'
For more information, you can contact Dick Packer at (352) 455 7657 or email dpacker@abalive.com

George Hill joins ABA team Texas Fuel - by Gianni Pascucci
The ABA Texas Fuel today announced that George Hill (6'2''-PG-86, college: IUPUI), the former San Antonio Spurs guard recently traded to the Indiana Pacers, is scheduled to play for the Texas Fuel pending the NBA lockout. The Texas Fuel will open its pre-season on Sunday, October 16th vs. the West Texas Whirlwinds at Manual Garza B. Gymnasium at the University of Texas at Brownsville, TX and Texas Southwest College.
'We are very pleased to have George as part of the Texas Fuel while the NBA lockout continues,' stated Marlon Minifee, Texas Fuel GM. 'He is a great player and a terrific young man who has done so much for the community; I know we will miss seeing him play for the San Antonio Spurs, but we are excited about his being able to return home to Indianapolis when the NBA resumes play. For now, he will add so very much to our team.with his skills and leadership.'
The ABA will begin the 2011 season in late November with over 80 teams, making it the largest professional sports league in the US. The league recently announced its new ABA Classics Division, a celebrity-backed prize money league that will begin next summer; the WABA, a women's league that will begin play in January, ABA Global, its international initiative and the ABA Entertainment League featuring top entertainers, directors, producers and former NFL, NBA, MLB players that begins play in October.

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AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Africabasket.com All-African Championships Awards 2011 - by Greg

Africabasket.com All-Tournament 1st Team

Mejri

Kechrid

Morais

Udoka

Faye

Best Player: Salah Mejri (216-C-86) of Tunisia
Best Guard: Carlos Morais (190-G-85) of Angola
Best Forward: Mouhammad Faye (208-F-85) of Senegal
Best Center: Salah Mejri of Tunisia

1st Team
PG: Marouana Kechrid (178-81) of Tunisia
G: Carlos Morais (190-85) of Angola
F/G: Ime Udoka (196-77) of Nigeria
F: Mouhammad Faye (208-85) of Senegal
C: Salah Mejri (216-86) of Tunisia

2nd Team
PG: Michael Mokongo (180-86) of Central Africa
G: Parfait Bitee (188-85) of Cameroon
G/F: Guy Edi (196-88) of Ivory Coast
F: Macram Romdhane (198-F-89) of Tunisia
F/C: Malick Badiane (211-84) of Senegal

3rd Team
PG: Mouloukou Diabate (180-87) of Ivory Coast
G: Armando Costa (192-83) of Angola
F: Abdelhakim Zouita (201-86) of Morocco
F/C: Charles Ramsdell (208-85) of Madagascar
F/C: Ejike Ugboaja (204-85) of Nigeria

Honorable Mention
Michael Umeh (188-G-84) of Nigeria
Kenneth Gasana (197-F-84) of Rwanda
Jimmy Williams (196-G-86) of Togo
Mamadou Ndoye (190-PG-79) of Senegal
Gaston Essengue (203-F-83) of Cameroon
James Mays (206-F-86) of Central Africa
Mohamed Tangara (208-F/C-84) of Mali
Abderrahim Najah (198-F/C-84) of Morocco
Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81) of Nigeria

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ARGENTINA

Liga A 2011/12 rosters: Quimsa - by Facundo Iatzky
Nicolas Aguirre (182-G-88)
Hernando Salles (188-G-79)
Sebastian Vega (200-F-88)
Carlos Schattmann (194-G-87)
Diego Lo Grippo (198-F-78)
Damian Tintorelli (204-C-81, agency: Players Group)
James Williams (204-F/C-79, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Brown Mackie)
Bernard Robinson (198-F-81, college: Michigan)
Gabriel Deck (195-F-95)
Alexandro Fermani (190-G-92)
Joaquin Deck (198-F-92)
Juan Cruz Perez (190-G-95)
Nahuel Melian

Liga A 2011/12 rosters: Obras Sanitarias - by Facundo Iatzky
Martin Osimani (194-G-81, college: Duquesne)
Alejandro Konsztadt (190-G-89)
Julio Mazzaro (190-G-79)
Pablo Espinoza (195-F-87)
Alexis Elsener (196-G-88)
Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83)
Tyler Field (206-F/C-78, college: San Diego)
Larry Lewis (201-F-69, college: Morehouse)
Lautaro Fraga (180-G-92)
Martin Gareis (200-C-92)
Tomas Zanzotera (188-G-93)
Cristian Scaramuzzino (206-C-92, agency: World Sport Agency)
Matias Bernardini (180-G-94)

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AUSTRALIA

SEABL: Dandenong Rangers out of play-offs - by Eurobasket News
DANDENONG Rangers' return to the South East Australian Basketball League East play-offs was ended in their first match by a rampant Kilsyth Cobras on Saturday night.

The Rangers men fought and fought, getting within four points of the home side early in the fourth quarter, but they never got any closer as the Cobras locked down on the defensive end and repeatedly made big shots in the final minutes to win 79-67.

The win eliminates the Rangers from the post-season and sends the Cobras into the preliminary finals against Bendigo this Saturday night.

Rangers coach Darren Perry said he couldn't fault his players' efforts against the red-hot Cobras, who won their ninth straight game.

'When you face a team who makes five or six long, long three-pointers and has good big men and doesn't miss their free throws in the final minutes, then you will need something special to come out on top,' he said.

'We kept closing in and closing in on them but we couldn't get in front. When you are trying to come from behind you have to hit the front at some point and we couldn't do that.'

The Cobras shot 10-25 three-point shots compared to the Rangers 1-16 and dominated the rebound count 41-34.

What will please the Rangers faithful was the performance of teenagers Venky Jois (198-F-93) and Lucas Barker (180-G-93), who gave their side plenty of spark and athleticism.

Perry warned other clubs about the Cobras' potential to go deep into the SEABL play-offs. 'They will go very far; with the players they have they can match it with any other side,' he said.

Point guard Andrew Harms (193-G-85, college: Metro St.) led the Rangers with 16 points while Brent Hobba added 15 points and Dusty Jura 14.

Cobras guard Matt O'Hea was the game high scorer with 18 points.
BY ROY WARD
Courtesy of: greaterdandenongweekly.com.au

SEABL: Braves no match for Raiders - by Eurobasket News
THE road for the Symes Motors Bendigo Braves to capturing the SEABL championship has become significantly harder following Saturday nights home-court loss to Knox.
An 82-74 loss has put the Braves into a must-win preliminary final showdown with the Kilsyth Cobras this Saturday night at Bendigo Stadium at 7pm.

Beaten just once at home in 2011, the Braves were outpointed by an experienced Knox line-up in week one of the SEABL play-offs.

Raiders forward C.J. Massingale racked up 22 points in the first half as the Raiders charged to a 43-30 lead by the long break.

Massingale could not miss, while the Braves were alarmingly off target.

Although the Braves worked hard to limit Massingales impact in the second half, Knox had all the answers.

Bendigo achieved an eight-nil run late in the third through Chris Hogan (198-F-83), two; Meyer, two and a foul; and McFarlin, two and a foul; to cut the margin to eight points.

Knox hit back through Alex Vanrenen (188-G-87) (five) and Liam Carroll (one) to lead 63-51 with a quarter to play.

The last started with a two-point basket from John Philip (198-F-82) before threes by Adam Tanner and Kevin Probert lifted the Braves.

The roar in the packed stadium was silenced though as Lester Strong (201-F/C-81, college: Metro St.) scored five unanswered points. Although the Braves kept attacking, especially through the classy Luke Meyer, they could not get the buffer to under seven points.

Turnovers also proved costly as Knox often capitalised on the 21 errors by the Braves.

Bendigo coach Ben Harvey said the club faced a tough run to reach the east conference grand final.

Its all about Kilsyth. We have put in our worst performance of the year, but have worked hard to earn the double chance, Harvey said.

All season we have bounced back well from defeat and we have to do it again. Knox outplayed and outmuscled us for a lot of this final.

We have to work hard at training this week and learn from this match.

Harvey said the challenge had become greater, but was far from impossible to achieve.
BY NATHAN DOLE
Courtesy of: bendigoadvertiser.com.au

Melbourne Tigers land NBA player Patrick Mills - by Eurobasket News
Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) is back to Australia. He signed a deal with the Melbourne Tigers, where he will play next season. Two sides agreed NBA out clause, so Mills will return to the US after the lockout. Mills spent last season with the Portland Trail Blazers. He had 5.4 ppg and 1.7 apg for them in 65 NBA games. Patrick Mills moved to the NBA in 2009, but he got injured in July and had to miss four months. He played 12 games for Portland later registering 2.7 ppg. Mills also appeared five times for the Idaho Stampede collecting 25.6 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 5.4 apg in D-League. Mills is a product of the St.Mary's University, where he graduated two years ago. He had 18.4 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 3.9 apg for his school as a senior. Patrick Mills is active member of the Australian National Team.

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AUSTRIA

WBC Raiffeisen Wels signs PG Ali Farokhmanesh - by Eurobasket News
WBC Raiffeisen Wels announced signing of point guard Ali Farokhmanesh (183-PG-88, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: N.Iowa) for the next season. He will replace recently released Steve McNees. Farokhmanesh is not rookie as he spent last season in Switzerland. He was a member of the LNA team SAM Basket Massagno. For 30 games with them Farokhmanesh shined with 19.5 ppg, 2.2 rpg, 3.1 apg and 2.3 spg. Eurobasket awarded him with All-Swiss LNA 1st Team -11. Ali Farokhmanesh is a product of the University of Northern Iowa. He graduated there a year ago. For 35 games as a senior Farokhmanesh averaging 9.7 points and 1.5 rebounds. He had almost the same numbers as a junior. Farokhmanesh transferred to Northern Iowa in 2008 from the Kirkwood JC.

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BALKAN LEAGUE

Rilski Sportist adds Filip Vukosavljevic - by Eurobasket News
Rilski Sportist signed another player for the next season. After Hristo Zahariev and Ante Bilobrk, the Bulgarian outfit penned a deal with Filip Vukosavljevic (206-C-83). The Serbian big guy heads to Rilski from the Bosnian team Capljina Lasta, where he finished last season. Vukosavljevic started it on Cyprus with AEK Larnacas. He had 9.5 ppg and 3.4 rpg for them in 15 games. Eurobasket awarded Vukosavljevic with All-Cyprus League Honorable Mention -11. Season 2009/10, Filip Vukosavljevic split between Proleter Zrenjanin and Borac Cacak. With Proleter he had 16.4 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 26 games in Serbian league. Later with Borac he added 14.4 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 1.1 apg for 13 games. In 2009, Vukosavljevic won the title in Serbian second division with Proleter (B League). In 2010, he was named Eurobasket.com Serbian A League All-Newcomers Team.

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BELGIUM

Charleroi too much for Chalons in friendly game, 79-57 - by Eurobasket News
Charleroi - Chalons 79-57

Charleroi demonstrated nice performance in a pre-season game against French Chalons-Reims. The Belgian powerhouse registered 79-57 victory in this meeting. Dwayne Broyles (196-F/G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: JMU) was their key player with 20 points. Christopher Hill (191-G-83, college: Michigan St.) scored 12 points, while Jiri Welsch (201-F-80), Demond Mallet (185-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) and Caleb Green (203-F-85, college: ORU) helped with 9 points each. Charleroi took control on Chalons from the beginning. They made 26-9 lead in the first ten minutes and never looked back. Quarters: 26-9, 22-17, 15-23, 21-24. Gary Chathuant (196-F/G-83) and Chris Daniels (200-F-82, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Georgia) were better than the others in Chalons with 13 points each. Rodrigue Mels (190-G-85, agency: Court Side, college: Cal.St. Northridge) stopped to 10 pts. Both teams will continue with friendly games during the pre-season.

Charleroi: Dwayne Broyles 20, Christopher Hill 12, Jiri Welsch 9, Demond Mallet 9, Caleb Green 9
Chalons: Gary Chathuant 13, Chris Daniels 13, Rodrigue Mels 10

Okapi Aalstar won over Waregem in a friendly game - by Eurobasket News
Belgium teams start the preparation for the upcoming season.
Waregem lost to Okapi Aalstar 58:81. The latter took the lead in the first period and reached 22:13 at the end of it. They enjoyed 35:27 at the halftime and increased to 10-points after three quarters. Moreover after the victory in the last stanza the board showed 81:58 at the end of the game. Stefon Jackson (196-G-85, college: UTEP) stepped up with 19 points and Christopher Copeland (203-F-84, college: Colorado) notched 13. Ahmet Gueye (203-F-82, college: Hawaii) replied with 14 points in the losing effort and D'Hondt notched 13.
Gravelines overcame Charleroi 93:56. The French side took the lead early in the game and proved their superiority in the start of friendly tournaments. Eldridge top-scored for the winners with 25 points and Johnson notched 10. Valentin Bigote (197-F-92) poured in 8 points, while Rudy Jomby (197-G/F-88) brought 4. Hill answered with 7 points in defeat and Green posted 6.

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BOSNIA

Bosnian NT for EuroBasket in Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Bosnian National Team Head Coach Sabit Hadzic made his last two cuts. The Bosnian specialist thanked Mujo Tuljkovic (203-F-79, agency: Beo Basket) and Diego Kapelan (190-G-87) for their service during the preparation period and they will not be part of the team in Lithuania.

Bosnian NT: Mirza Teletovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket), Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81), Nihad Dedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket), Elmedin Kikanovic (210-C-88, agency: Beo Basket), Sasa Vasiljevic (183-G-79, agency: Beo Basket), Ermin Jazvin (210-C-80, agency: Alti Sport), Milan Milosevic (205-F-85, agency: Beo Basket), Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket), Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois), Goran Ikonic (196-G-80, agency: Beo Basket), Nemanja Gordic (194-G-88) and Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85, agency: Beo Basket).

Bosnia is placed to Preliminary Group D of the EuroBasket. Their rivals in this pool will be Montenegro, FYROM, Greece, Croatia and Finland. The championship starts on Wednesday and Bosnia will meet Greece in opening day. After that, Bosnia will play against Montenegro. Three best teams from Group D will advance to the Qualifying Round. Also it is important to mention that finalists of EuroBasket will directly qualify for the Olympic Games in London. Third, fourth, fifth and sixth ranked teams will participate in Additional Qualifying Tournament.

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BULGARIA

CROATIA

Cibona lands rookie guard Demonte Harper - by Eurobasket News
Demonte Harper (193-G) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American combo guard signed a one-year deal with Cibona Zagreb. Harper arrives from the Morehead State University, where he graduated few months ago. He had 15.5 ppg, 5 rpg and 3.4 rpg for his school in 35 games as a senior. Morehead State won the OVC Tournament and Harper was named All-OVC 1st Team -11. He was also All-OVC All-Tournament MVP -11. Demonte Harper was pretty productive for his school also as a junior. At that time he had 11.9 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 3.2 apg in 34 games. Harper participated at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) this summer. For two games at this event he had 12 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 4 apg and 2.5 spg.

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D-LEAGUE

Javaris Crittenton murder charges: FBI hunting for former NBA player charged in death - by Eurobasket News
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is helping police in Atlanta and Los Angeles search for a former NBA player wanted for murder.

FBI Special Agent Steve Emmett in Atlanta told The Associated Press on Sunday that the agency is involved as police look for Javaris Crittenton (6'5''-G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech). Authorities say Crittenton is charged in the fatal shooting of 22-year Jullian Jones, a mother of four who was gunned down Aug. 19 in Atlanta..

Atlanta police spokesman Sgt. Curtis Davenport said Crittenton was not in custody as of Sunday afternoon. He declined further comment.

Authorities say Jones likely was not the intended target when Crittenton fired shots from an SUV. Authorities say Crittenton was retaliating for an April robbery in which he was a victim.

Crittenton spent the 2006-07 season at Georgia Tech and played in 113 NBA games.

Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

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EUROLEAGUE

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Blatt cut Eugeny Voronov and Egor Vyaltsev - by Eurobasket News
David Blatt cut Eugeny Voronov (193-G-86) and Egor Vyaltsev (192-G-85) out of Top 12 to represent Russia at Eurobasket 2011. The Head Coach of the Russian team thanked the players for their contribution.
Egor Vyaltsev is a player of Khimky. Last year he played for Trumph Lyubertsy that he joined in 2007-2008. Last season for Triumph Lyubertsy in Russian League Egor Vyaltsev averaged high 14.4ppg, 2.5rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), 1.0spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 83.2%.
Eugeny Voronov is a player of CSKA. Recently CSKA Moscow announced signing of Russian guard Eugeny Voronov as two sides penned 1+1 year deal. Voronov spent last season with Dynamo Moscow. He shined with 12.8 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 2.7 apg and 1.8 spg for them in 25 PBL games.
Russia starts the Eurobasket 2011 with the game against Ukraine on August 31st.

Russia:
Sergey Bykov

Andrey Vorontsevich

Viktor Khryapa

Andrei Kirilenko

Timofey Mozgov

Sergey Monya

Anton Ponkrashov

Vitaly Fridzon
Alexey Shved

Semen Antonov

Nikita Shabalkin

Dmitry Khvostov

Bosnian NT for EuroBasket in Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Bosnian National Team Head Coach Sabit Hadzic made his last two cuts. The Bosnian specialist thanked Mujo Tuljkovic (203-F-79, agency: Beo Basket) and Diego Kapelan (190-G-87) for their service during the preparation period and they will not be part of the team in Lithuania.

Bosnian NT: Mirza Teletovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket), Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81), Nihad Dedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket), Elmedin Kikanovic (210-C-88, agency: Beo Basket), Sasa Vasiljevic (183-G-79, agency: Beo Basket), Ermin Jazvin (210-C-80, agency: Alti Sport), Milan Milosevic (205-F-85, agency: Beo Basket), Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket), Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois), Goran Ikonic (196-G-80, agency: Beo Basket), Nemanja Gordic (194-G-88) and Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85, agency: Beo Basket).

Bosnia is placed to Preliminary Group D of the EuroBasket. Their rivals in this pool will be Montenegro, FYROM, Greece, Croatia and Finland. The championship starts on Wednesday and Bosnia will meet Greece in opening day. After that, Bosnia will play against Montenegro. Three best teams from Group D will advance to the Qualifying Round. Also it is important to mention that finalists of EuroBasket will directly qualify for the Olympic Games in London. Third, fourth, fifth and sixth ranked teams will participate in Additional Qualifying Tournament.

Eurobasket Introduces the Players: 2 Days to go... - by Eurobasket News
Two days are left before the start of the European Championships 2011 to be held in Lithuania. After presenting the teams, Eurobasket decided to pay attention to the players who will participate in the tournament and those who unfortunately could not make it to EuroBasket 2011.

It will not be pleasant to miss such players as Semih Erden (211-C-87), Omri Casspi (204-F/G-88), Novica Velickovic (205-F-86), Yannick Bokolo (191-G-85), Mickael Pietrus (198-F-82, agency: Court Side),Ronny Turiaf (208-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga), Antoine Diot (191-G-89), Miha Zupan (205-F/C-82), Adnan Hodzic (203-F-88, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Lipscomb), Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79, agency: Alti Sport), Marcin Gortat (213-C-84), Maciej Lampe (210-C-85), Ben Gordon (188-G-83, college: Connecticut), Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington), Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79), Axel Hervelle (205-F-83), Vassilis Spanoulis (193-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket), Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85), Linas Kleiza (203-F-85, college: Missouri), Jorge Garbajosa (205-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances), J.R. Holden (185-G-76, college: Bucknell), Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, agency: Alti Sport, college: UNLV), Roko-Leni Ukic (195-G-84), Stefan Georgiev (206-C/F-78), Tyrone Ellis (193-G-77, college: S.Nazarene), Taurean Green (185-G-85, college: Florida), Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi), David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) and many others

Great Britain star Pops Mensah-Bonsu was not going to recover in time from a shoulder operation to play at the EuroBasket in Lithuania.
Croatia's EuroBasket hopes have been dealt a major blow with the loss of starting guard Roko-Leni Ukic with a broken foot.
Semih Erden will miss the upcoming EuroBasket in Lithuania. The player didnt recover from injury and will not be able to help his countrymates.
Omri Casspi was hurt in practice few weeks ago but had hoped to recover in time with the initial diagnosis suggesting he could be back on court within a fortnight of sustaining the injury. However, his knee is not fine yet and Casspi will have to receive more treatments.
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. The French point guard injured his back and will not be able to help the team in Lithuania.
Despite the efforts on the European and global insurance markets Polish Basketball Federation have failed to find a policy that fully protects Marcin Gortat during the lockout from the consequences of possible injury on European Championships. It is a situation where the Phoenix Suns resolve contract with Gortat in the event of his inability to play at the point of interruption by the NBA lockout. It was not possible to find insurance coverage for such a situation. This is another painful loss for the Polish team after Maciej Lampe.
Ben Gordon will miss the European Basketball Championship because of insurance problems caused by the NBA lockout.
Vassilis Spanoulis and Sofoklis Schortsanitis knocked out of Eurobasket and will not help Greece. The Olympiacos man has suffered an adductor problem and requires surgery that will sideline him for two months. The departure of another player had already been rumoured weeks ago, until the player gave an interview saying he was always in the team's service. He decided to quit anyway, adding his name to a long list of absentees for the Greeks.

Almost all the coaches already announced the Top 12 player-list. You can find them in European Championships section below.
The Eurobasket.com All-European Championships Awards 2009 Team are all ready for 2011 Tournament. Early in 2009 the team looked the following:

Best Player: Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) of Spain
Best Guard: Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) of Spain
Best Forward: Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) of Slovenia
Best Center: Pau Gasol of Spain
Best Coach: Dusan Ivkovic (agency: Beo Basket ) of Serbia

Orhun Ene announced Final 12 to head to Eurobasket - by Eurobasket News
Orhun Ene announced Final 12 to head to Eurobasket and left Dogus Balbay (185-G-89, college: Texas) out of the squad. He thanked the player for his contribution to the team and effort.
Dogus Balbay is a player of Anadalo Efes Pilsen. Last year Dogus Balbay came back to Turkey where he started in 2004-2005 for Fenerbahce Istanbul (D1). In 2007-2008 Dogus Balbay moved to Texas (NCAA) and in the last season had 4.1ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.2apg. In 2008 for the National team Dogus Balbay exploded with 20 points in the game versus Lithuania. He also added 7 assists and 5 rebounds in his top game.
Turkey starts the campaign against Portugal on August 31st. The latter grabbed the last, second ticket from the Additional Qualifying Round to advance to Eurobasket 2011. In their last game Finland registered the fourth straight win at the 2011 EuroBasket Additional Qualifying Round. They upset Portugal on the road to clinch 4-0 record. Portugal finished at 2-2 record and also reached 2011 EuroBasket.

Turkey:
Oguz Savas (208-C-87),

Enes Kanter (208-C-92, college: Kentucky),

Ersan Ilyasova (207-F-87),

Hidayet Turkoglu (206-F-79),

Cenk Akyol (196-G-87),

Emir Preldzic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket),

Ender Arslan (190-G-83),

Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79),

Omer Onan (194-G-78),

Omer Asik (213-C-86),

Izzet Turkyilmaz (210-F-90),

Sinan Guler (193-G-83, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Carroll, MT)

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Petteri KOPONEN
  FIN
  (193-G-88)
  Avg: 13.8

1. Koponen, FIN	13.8
2. Miranda, POR	12.5
3. Santos, POR	12.0
4. Rannikko, FIN	11.5
5. Trotter, HUN	11.0
6. Huff, FIN	10.5
7. Andrade, POR	10.3
8. Keller, HUN	10.3
9. Hanga, HUN	9.5
10. Lorant, HUN	9.3

Rebounds Per Game

Carlos ANDRADE
  CPV
  (197-F-78)
  Avg: 7.8

1. Andrade, POR	7.8
2. Cunha, POR	6.7
3. Bader, HUN	6.3
4. Salin, FIN	6.0
5. Huff, FIN	6.0
6. Lorant, HUN	5.5
7. Kotti, FIN	5.0
8. Hanga, HUN	5.0
9. Santos, POR	4.3
10. Keller, HUN	4.0

Assists Per Game

Filipe DA SILVA
(185-F-86)
Avg: 6.5

1. Da Silva, POR	6.5
2. Koponen, FIN	5.0
3. Hanga, HUN	3.5
4. Rannikko, FIN	3.0
5. Andrade, POR	2.3
6. Huff, FIN	2.0
7. Lorant, HUN	2.0
8. Miranda, POR	2.0
9. Trotter, HUN	1.8
10. Horvath, HUN	1.5

Steals Per Game

Obie TROTTER
  USA
  (186-G-84)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Trotter, HUN	2.8
2. Kotti, FIN	2.5
3. Miranda, POR	2.3
4. Andrade, POR	2.0
5. Hanga, HUN	2.0
6. Huff, FIN	1.3
7. Santos, POR	1.3
8. Horvath, HUN	1.0
9. Vojvoda, HUN	0.8
10. Bader, HUN	0.8

Blocks Per Game

Elvis EVORA
  CPV
  (205-C-78)
  Avg: 1

1. Evora, POR	1.0
2. Keller, HUN	1.0
3. Muurinen, FIN	0.8
4. Salin, FIN	0.5
5. Fonseca, POR	0.5
6. Kotti, FIN	0.3
7. Santos, POR	0.3
8. Trotter, HUN	0.3
9. Lee, FIN	0.3
10. Bader, HUN	0.3

*****************************************************

FRANCE

Fos Ouest celebrates in home tournament - by Eurobasket News
Fos Ouest celebrates in home tournament of Fos-sur-Mer. The team invited three other representatives over the last two days.
Antibes lost to Menorca 51:77 in the opener. The French side started with 17:16, but then could not keep the score for good. The Spanish team tied the game at the halftime and then added two easy victories in the second-half-quarters. Arteaga stepped up with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while David Navarro (192-G/F-83) followed him with 11. Lesly Bengaber (198-G/F-79) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort and Brown posted 9.
Fos rolled over Vichy 82:76. Gay poured in 20 points and Philippe Haquet (199-F-86) added 15. Eito netted 17 points in the losing effort and Flowers scored 14.
In the game for the third place Antibes overcame Vichy 76:61. Jeff Allen (200-F-87, college: Virginia Tech) stepped up with 23 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge.
Fos won the tournament beating Menorca 90:69 on Sunday. Philippe Haquet top-scored for the winners with 21 points, while Clark netted 15. Arteaga replied with 15 points in the losing effort and Urko Otegi scored 12.

Charleroi too much for Chalons in friendly game, 79-57 - by Eurobasket News
Charleroi - Chalons 79-57

Charleroi demonstrated nice performance in a pre-season game against French Chalons-Reims. The Belgian powerhouse registered 79-57 victory in this meeting. Dwayne Broyles (196-F/G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: JMU) was their key player with 20 points. Christopher Hill (191-G-83, college: Michigan St.) scored 12 points, while Jiri Welsch (201-F-80), Demond Mallet (185-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) and Caleb Green (203-F-85, college: ORU) helped with 9 points each. Charleroi took control on Chalons from the beginning. They made 26-9 lead in the first ten minutes and never looked back. Quarters: 26-9, 22-17, 15-23, 21-24. Gary Chathuant (196-F/G-83) and Chris Daniels (200-F-82, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Georgia) were better than the others in Chalons with 13 points each. Rodrigue Mels (190-G-85, agency: Court Side, college: Cal.St. Northridge) stopped to 10 pts. Both teams will continue with friendly games during the pre-season.

Charleroi: Dwayne Broyles 20, Christopher Hill 12, Jiri Welsch 9, Demond Mallet 9, Caleb Green 9
Chalons: Gary Chathuant 13, Chris Daniels 13, Rodrigue Mels 10

Maurienne and Dijon meet in a friendly game - by Eurobasket News
Aix-Maurienne and JDA Dijon played a friendly game which ended without winner. It was a very exciting meeting, which included one OT, but still it finished with 75-75. Dar Tucker (193-F-88, college: De Paul) was the leading scorer in Maurienne with 21 points. Bambale Osby (203-F-86, college: Maryland) followed him with 18 and Wilbert Brown (200-F-84, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Niagara) helped with 10 pts. On the other side, new member of JDA Dijon Bobby Dixon (178-G-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Troy) shined with 25 points. Sean Marshall (198-G/F-85, college: Boston Coll.) was their second scorer with 13 points. Quarters: 17-24, 17-18, 16-12, 19-15, 6-6 OT.
More friendly games were played in France over the past few days. Chalon was better than Blois 84-73. Also Lille handed 89-75 loss to Denain. CCRB lost to Belgian Charleroi 57-79. Gravelines outplayed Charleroi after that 93-56.

Osiris Eldridge joined Gravelines - by Eurobasket News
Osiris Eldridge (191-G-88, college: Illinois St.) joined Gravelines and already debuted for his new team. The American Guard top-scored in the first friendly game for the team in 2011/2012 season.
Gravelines overcame Charleroi 93:56. The French side took the lead early in the game and proved their superiority in the start of friendly tournaments. Eldridge top-scored for the winners with 25 points and Johnson notched 10. Bigote poured in 8 points, while Jomby brought 4. Hill answered with 7 points in defeat and Green posted 6.
In 2010-2011 Osiris Eldridge played for Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir (Turkey-TBL, starting five) and in EuroChallenge after 15 games averaged 12.7ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 58.9%, 3PT: 45.7%, FT: 82.4%. In Turkish League after 27 games his stats read 9.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 66.0%. Last year with the Turkeish team he reached EuroChallenge Quarterfinals -11.

ASVEL wins dAix les Bains tournament - by Eurobasket News
ASVEL wins dAix les Bains tournament that was held over the weekend in France. The team won both games to get the trophy.
Eurobasket wrote that on Saturday Roanne overcame Dijon 68:60. Dylan Page (204-F-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) stepped up with 19 points and Philippe Braud netted 14. Moss responded with 12 points in the losing effort.
Asvel outscored Aix-Maurienne 86:81. Kim Tillie (211-F-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Utah) paced all the winners with 17 points, while Jackson posted 16. Hilton Armstrong (208-C/F-84, college: Connecticut) netted 15 and Goss notched 12. Bambale Osby (203-F-86, college: Maryland) responded with 21 points in the losing effort and Brown posted 18.
On Sunday Asvel won over Roanne 79:63. The team started with 15:8 after the first period and had 36:20 at the halftime. Asvel won the third frame as well to take 60:41 after three quarters and finished with 16-point advantage. Jackson top-scored for the winners with 13 points, while Hilton Armstrong and Kim Tillie had 12 each. Dylan Page replied with 23 points for Roanne that finished second.
In the game for the third place Dijon edged Aix Maurienne 70:53.

*****************************************************

GEORGIA

BC Army brings in American Jeremy Richardson - by Eurobasket News
According to Sportando.net, Jeremy Richardson (200-G/F-84, college: Delta St.) will continue his career in Georgia. Reportedly, the American G/F signed a one-year deal with BC Army. Richardson heads to his new team from Power Electronics Valencia, where he spent last season. He appeared 13 times in Euroleague averaging 6.5 points and 2.4 rebounds. Richardson also added 7.5 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 23 games in ACB. Richardson helped Valencia to reach the Euroleague Quarterfinals. Before Valencia, Jeremy Richardson spent one season with Aris Thessaloniki. He shined with 14.2 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 12 EuroCup games. He had slightly lower numbers in Greece. In the past, Richardson played for the NBA teams Orlando Magic, Memphis Grizzlies and Atlanta Hawks.

Will Thomas landed in Army Sport Klub Tbilisi! - by Greg
Army Sport Klub Tbilisi has just announced the signing of 25-year old American forward Will Thomas (203-F-86). The product of George Mason University played last three years in Belgium. While playing 37 games for Telenet Oostende in Belgian League averaging 11.0ppg, 5.5rpg and 1.1apg. He also played 17 games in EuroChallenge for Oostende last season his stats were: 12.1ppg and 6.6rpg. Last season Thomas received the Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League Honorable Mention award. A year before he was named Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League Player of the Year.

*****************************************************

GERMANY

ALBA triumphs at the 2011 International Basketball Club Championships - by Eurobasket News
ALBA- Cairns Taipans 84:67

ALBA triumphs at the 2011 International Basketball Club Championships. The European team won over Australian Cairns Taipans in the Final game.
Jamar Wilson (185-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Albany) put on a spectacle for the Chinese crowd finishing with 13 points, but was essentially un-guardable for most of the night. The German side grabbed 27:18 after the first period and never looked behind after. Cairns Taipans however won the second frame 17-12 and reduce to 39:35 at the halftime. ALBA needed 24-21 in the third quarter to enjoy 63:56 after thirty minutes and added 21-11 for the final success.
Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) paced all the winners with 16 points, while Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) notched 14. Torin Francis (210-F-83, agency: FCM, college: Notre Dame) collected 13 points and 7 Rebounds, while DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) added 11. Brab Hill replied with 21 points in the losing effort and Dusty Rychart (201-F-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Minnesota) netted 14.

ALBA: Derrick Allen 16, Bryce Taylor 14, Torin Francis 13 + 7 Rebounds, DaShaun Wood 11
Cairns Taipans: Brab Hill 21, Dusty Rychart 14, Jamar Wilson 13

Japan lose test game against Wuerzburg - by Eurobasket News
Wuerzburg - Japan 83:77

Wuerzburg recorded the victory in the first exhibition game against Japan in Germany. Japan paid a return visit to Wuerzburg after the German team played three test games in Japan earlier this summer.
Japan got to the better start. They recorded a 23:22 lead after ten minutes of action. Wuerzburg erased the deficit and posted a 37:36 halftime lead. The hosts speeded things up in the third quarter. They erupted for 28 points to ensured a 6-point lead with one period remaining. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the fourth term but Wuerzburg stayed in control and registered a well-deserved win at the end. Gilbert Brown (198-F-87, agency: VVG Sports, college: Pittsburgh) accounted for 21 points to lead the effort. Ricky Harris (188-G-87, college: Massachusetts) added 12 points, while Ivan Elliott (203-F/C-86, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: UCSB) had 11 points in the win. Kosuke Takeuchi (206-C/F-85) answered with 20 points and 9 rebounds for Japan. Joji Takeuchi (206-F/C-85, agency: N.E.T.) chipped in 12 points in defeat.

Wuerzburg: Gilbert Brown 21, Ricky Harris 12, Ivan Elliott 11
Japan: Kosuke Takeuchi 20, Joji Takeuchi 12

Dirk Nowitzki awarded Germany's highest sports honor - by Moritz Korff
Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) received the highest German sports award, the Silver Laurel Leaf, yesterday. The award was presented by Germany's head of state, German Federal President Christian Wulff, in a ceremony at the Bellevue presidential palace in Berlin. The German president called Nowitzki 'a giant of German sports' and an ambassador for Germany in the United States and all over the globe. Wulff praised him for being a role model who remains humble and down to earth despite the great success he has had in the NBA and on the German National Team over the years. He also wished him and his teammates luck for the upcoming European championship.

Pro B Experience With Deon Mcduffie Goes To The Metropol Baskets Ruhr - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
NBBL team Metropol Baskets Ruhr have announced the arrival of Deon McDuffie (188-G-93) who will play for the NBBL team this season. Mcduffie has 2 years of PRO B expereince under his belt and is a 18 year old 188cm guard that grew up in the Bamberg farm system of TSV Troester II Breitengussbach where he started his career in 2007. Last season, the German played for BG Illertal/Weissenhorn (ProB) playing 21 games: 9.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 68.8%.This season, Mcduffie was with BG Dorsten, but the Metropol Baskets Ruhr was able to snap him up due to the good contact to BG Dorsten head coach Torsten Schierenbeck. 'Deon penetrates very aggressively to the hoop and plays with a passion. He always gives his best.I hope we can quickly integrate him into our team', stressed Metropol Baskets Ruhr head coach Tobias Stadtmann. Mcduffie already got PRO B expereince as a 16 year oldin 2009 for TSV Troester Breitenguessbach (ProB, starting five): 16 games: 3.4ppg.Last season, he was awarded with Eurobasket.com German 2. Bundesliga Pro B All-Newcomers Team -11.

Source: Metropol Baskets Ruhr

Brandon Brooks (Phoenix Hagen) , I Want To Earn The Starting Point Guard Spot Nothing Is Given - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Brandon Brooks (188-G-87, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Alabama St.) is a 24 year old 188cm guard from Dallas, Texas. He is starting his third professional basketball season with Phoenix Hagen in the beko BBL. Last season, he got experience in the D-League playing for Tulsa 66ers playing 36 games: 4.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.3apg. He started his professional basketball career in Germany with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in 2009 averaging 7.4ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 72.8% He played at Alabama State and as a senior he played 32 games: 13.7ppg, 4.2rpg, 6.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3Pts: 36.9%, FT: 77.1%. He was the SWAC Regular Season Champion in 2008 and 2009. He spoke to Eurobasket before he came to Germany to play for Phoenix Hagen

Congrats on the contract with Phoenix hagen. How happy are you about being back in Germany?

Im very happy to be in familiar territory again.

What did you miss most about Germany and the beko BBL?

I miss the fans. Even when Iwas in the D-league the people still wished me luck.

What convinced you most about taking the job with Phoenix Hagen?

The playing style they have is very much up and down run and gun type of offense.

You played last season in the D-league for the Tulsa 66ers. How much was your game able to develop in the States?

I learned a lot in the D-league. My basketball IQ is much better now. I hope to transfer it to Hagen

Do you feel much pressure in that you will be the starting point guard for a Beko BBL team in your third season?

First, I want to earn the starting point guard spot nothing is given. I dont feel much pressure coming in Im coming to get the job down.

What was the most important thing that you learned from Lou Campbell in Bremerhaven?

Lou taught me a lot about basketball and life in general . Im very appreciative of him. There isnt one thing he taught me that is greater than the other.

Phoenix Hagen has a good mix of young and old players, but still are one of less talented teams in league this season. How will team stay in league besides winning the right amount of games?

We will see when the season starts. I set my goals higher than just staying in the league. The last time I havent seen a postseason was 2005

On what things did you work on this summer to improve your game? Is decision making one of those things your working on?

I worked on my legs. Basketball is very much a grind so I worked on strength the most along with shooting and conditioning.

Who won a one on one last season you or NBA player Zabian Dowdell and how did you beat him?

Zay taught me a lot when it comes to basketball as well. We never played 1 on 1. He was on his Im a vet thing lol.. (whatup z)

What is your opinion about Ron Artest changing his name to World Peace?

That guy is a grade A weirdo. The End

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Probably Kevin Hart seriously funny.

Thanks Brandon for the chat.

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GREECE

A1 latest Transfer news - by Chris Mammides
Kolossos Rodou agreed financial terms with the following players: Antonis Asimakopoulos, the captain of the team agree to continue his career for one more season with the islanders and becomes the player with the most seasons in the team. Sakis Karidas the experienced point guard agree to continue his career after four consecutive seasons in the team of Ilysiakos. The Greek American player agreed to continue his career with Kolossos Rodou for another one season (his initial contract was 1+1). The American shooting guard/small forward Scotty Hopson agree and will become the first American player of the team for the coming season.
AGOR agreed financial terms with Periklis Dorkofikis who becomes the third AEKs player to sign with the Cretans after Papanikolaou and Kallinikidis.
Maroussi agreed financial terms with the American guard Ralph Mims, the ex Nancy player becomes the first American to play with the yellows of Marousi.
Aris Thessaloniki is the new team of Vangelis Mantzaris as the two parts came together and agree to the one year contract as a lend from the team of Bizkaia Bilbao who will be the new team of the Greek international for the next four years.
Peristeri agreed financial terms with the American guard Richard Roby
Panionios agreed financial terms with the experience point guard Billy Keys. Coach Bartzokas was coaching the experience point guard in the team of Marousi

*****************************************************

HUNGARY

Transfer news - by Tamas Deri
Falco KC Szombathely agreed with serbian big man Milan Bjegovic (211-C-81, agency: Numbers Sports Agency) and american guard Chad Timberlake (194-G-84, college: Fairleigh Dickinson). Both players will spend their tryouts in the next two weeks before the management will decide about keeping them on the roster for the coming season. The 211 cm tall Bjegovic is an experienced big man as he played in several countries of Europe already: Slovenia, Lithuania, Cyprus, France, Greece, Serbia and the Czech Republic. He started the last season with Superfund BP Beograd in Serbia but left the team and moved to the Czech Republic where he finished the season with USK Praha. In 27 games he averaged 9.7ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 55.4%, FT: 61.5%.
Timberlake is an athletic, 194 cm tall guard well known in our country as he played in 2010 for Zalakeramia ZTE KK and helped the team to win the Hungarian Championship and Hungarian Cup. In 18 games of the Championship he averaged 5.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 56.5%. Timberlake is also an experienced player, he played in the Czech Republic, CBA and Poland before taking the job with ZTE KK in February 2010. The last season he spent with Elitzur Yavne in the 2nd league of Israel and put up 20.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 73.2% in 31 games.

Eurochallenge candidate ASE invited american Devonne Giles (203-F-83, college: Texas Tech) for a 10 days tryout before getting him guaranteed on the roster for the coming season. The 203 cm tall Giles on the University of Texas Tech in 2005 and started his professional carreer in China. He played almost four season in Holland with West-Brabant Giants and the Eiffel Towers before moving to the Pro B in France. In the last season he played for SPO Rouen Basket averaging 12.3ppg, 8.0rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 73.7%.

Szeged signed serbian power forward Tomislav Ivosev, who spent the last season with KK Novi Sad in the 2nd league of Serbia averaging 15.7ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.3apg,2.0spg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 72.2%.

NYKK agreed with serbian playmaker Stefan Fekete (188-G-86, agency: Beo Basket), who might receive his hungarian citizenship before the regular season starts. The 188 cm tall, 25 years old point guard started his carreer in Serbia before moving to BC Igokea Partizan in Bosnia. He played last season 25 games with KK Sloboda Uzice in the serbian top division and averaged 12.2ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 43.1%. In March 2011 he agreed with HKK Capljina Lasta and finished the season there. In 9 games he put up 17.0ppg, 6.4rpg, 4.3apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 62.4%, 3PT: 17.9%, FT: 42.6%.

*****************************************************

ICELAND

Standings - Iceland Express League

Express L. Standings

1. Fjolnir		0-0
2. Grindavik		0-0
3. Haukar		0-0
4. IR		0-0
5. Keflavik		0-0
6. KR		0-0
7. Njardvik		0-0
8. Snaefell		0-0
9. Stjarnan		0-0
10. Thor Thorl		0-0
11. Tindastoll		0-0
12. Valur		0-0

Standings - 1 Division

D1 Standings

1. Armann		0-0
2. Breidablik		0-0
3. FSU		0-0
4. Hamar		0-0
5. Hottur		0-0
6. IA		0-0
7. IG		0-0
8. KFI		0-0
9. Skallagrimur		0-0
10. Thor AK		0-0

*****************************************************

INDONESIA

Standings - IBL

NBL Standings

1. Bima Sakti		0-0
2. Dell Aspac		0-0
3. Garuda		0-0
4. Muba Hangtuah		0-0
5. NSH GMC Riau		0-0
6. Nuovo CLS		0-0
7. Pacific Caesar		0-0
8. Pelita Jaya		0-0
9. Satria Muda		0-0
10. Stadium Jak.		0-0

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ISRAEL

Five North American Jewish Basketball Players Find Home In Israel - by David Pick
With a somewhat troubled basketball economy, it's not every day that a job fair can produce over a 30% hiring rate. Well, that's exactly what happened this past June at Maccabi Haifa's fourth annual U.S. basketball tryouts held at the David Posnack Jewish Community Center in Davie, Florida, where 5 of the 16 invited North American Jewish basketball players as well as two American players were recently signed to professional basketball teams in Israel.

Maccabi Haifa is the only Israeli basketball team to hold U.S. tryouts as American team owner Jeffrey Rosen's goal is to transform Haifa into Israels team for America.

The North American Jewish players, all of whom will be making Aliyah becoming Israeli citizens include Maccabi Haifa's newly signed Canadian guard Simon Farine (Dalhousie University), as well as four players who signed with a second division team in Israel. Haifas farm team Hod Hasharon (located 5 miles northeast of Tel Aviv) recently announced the signings of former NCAA Division I guard Todd Lowenthal (UC Davis), former NCAA Division I forward Charles Dewhurst (UNC Charlotte), former NCAA Division II standout guard Heiden Ratner (Mercyhurst College), and former NCAA Division II guard Will Freedman (California State University, East Bay). Hod Hasharon also signed two NCAA Division I American players, who attended the U.S. Tryouts point guard Javi Gonzalez (NC State) and forward Jerrell Williams (La Salle University).

Haifa has been a leader in recruiting North American Jewish players who make Aliyah, having brought 15 of them to Israel over the past three seasons.

We as an organization have made a commitment of building a bridge between North America and Israel and our vehicle happens to be an effective one through sports, said Triangle Chairman and Maccabi Haifa team owner Jeffrey Rosen. This is an amazing opportunity for gifted Jewish athletes to experience Israel, while playing a sport professionally that they love.

Farine, who was the sole player from the U.S. tryouts to be signed by Haifa was thrilled to hear the news that he was going to be playing professionally in Israel. It is an honor and a dream come true to play basketball professionally in Israel, and I'm especially proud to become an Israeli citizen since my father was born in Israel, said Toronto native Farine. I'm excited to be part of the Haifa organization and look forward to making an impact on a great team.

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ITALY

Krasnie Krilya surprise Benetton in Domegge - by Eurobasket News
Benetton- Krasnie Krilya 68:75

Krasnie Krilya surprised Benetton in Domegge in the friendly game between two sides. The Russian team grabbed 75:68 taking the easy start.
The Russian team opened the game with 25:11 and looked much better than the opponents. In the second quarter the Italian team however pulled back and reduced to 40:36 at the halftime. Only some important baskets gave Samara 13-point advantage at the end of the third period and they managed to keep the score for good. The board showed 75:68 at the end of the game as both sides took the picture for the memories.
Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87, agency: Alti Sport) stepped up with 17 points, while Joe Alexander (203-F-86, college: W.Virginia) scored 16. Fedor Likholitov (210-C-80, college: VCU) netted 14 and Kolesnikov notched 12. Alessandro Gentile (198-G/F-92) ended up with 17 points for the Italian team and E'Twaun Moore (192-G-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Purdue) as well as Adrien netted 15 apiece.

Benetton: Adrien 15 (7/13), Becirovic 7 (1/1,1/1), E'Twaun Moore 15 (6/11,0/8), Sandri n.e. , De Nicolao 4 (2/6), Ivanov 0 , Cuccarolo 0 (0/1), Alessandro Gentile 17 (3/7,3/4), Gaspardo n.e., Wojchiechowski 8 (1/3,2/3), Scalabrine 2 (1/5,0/2), Masocco n.e. All. Djordjevic
Krasnie Krilya: Rush 9, Dedushkin 1, Dragan Labovic 17, Urazmanov 0, Arteshin n.e., Kolesnikov 12, Balashov 0, Joe Alexander 16, Hayes 4, Levter n.e., Surovtsev 0, Miles 2, Fedor Likholitov 14. All. Bazarevich

Lottici remains with Vanoli-Braga Cremona, Magarity stays with Angelico Biella - by Eurobasket News
Matteo Lottici (185-G-91) remains with Vanoli-Braga Cremona and was named in the Roster of the Serie A team. The Italian 1991-year-born player is happy to start with the main team.
In 2007-2008 Matteo joined UCC Casalpusterlengo (B1) and in 2008-2009 played for Assigeco Casalpusterlengo (A dilettanti). In Feb.'10 was loaned by UCC Casalpusterlengo (Lega2), but played also at Siram Fidenza (A dilettanti). In 12 games he averaged 1.8ppg, then moved to La Falegnami Castelfiorentino (B dilettanti) and showed 2.9ppg, 1.1rpg. Last year was with Vanoli-Braga Cremona junior team.
Swedish William Magarity (207-F-93) will continue with Angelico Biella . In2008-2009 he started for Norrkopings UBF (Basketettan) and in 2009-2010 for Norrkoping BK (Basketettan) averaged 8.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.0apg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 62.7%, 3PT: 9.1%, FT: 76.9%. In 2010-2011 moved to Angelico Biella junior team.
Angelico Biella also invited Stefano Stassi. The 1993 junior is an Italian U16 National Team -09.

*****************************************************

JAPAN

Japan lose test game against Wuerzburg - by Eurobasket News
Wuerzburg - Japan 83:77

Wuerzburg recorded the victory in the first exhibition game against Japan in Germany. Japan paid a return visit to Wuerzburg after the German team played three test games in Japan earlier this summer.
Japan got to the better start. They recorded a 23:22 lead after ten minutes of action. Wuerzburg erased the deficit and posted a 37:36 halftime lead. The hosts speeded things up in the third quarter. They erupted for 28 points to ensured a 6-point lead with one period remaining. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the fourth term but Wuerzburg stayed in control and registered a well-deserved win at the end. Gilbert Brown (198-F-87, agency: VVG Sports, college: Pittsburgh) accounted for 21 points to lead the effort. Ricky Harris (188-G-87, college: Massachusetts) added 12 points, while Ivan Elliott (203-F/C-86, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: UCSB) had 11 points in the win. Kosuke Takeuchi (206-C/F-85) answered with 20 points and 9 rebounds for Japan. Joji Takeuchi (206-F/C-85, agency: N.E.T.) chipped in 12 points in defeat.

Wuerzburg: Gilbert Brown 21, Ricky Harris 12, Ivan Elliott 11
Japan: Kosuke Takeuchi 20, Joji Takeuchi 12

Jayme Miller took his talent to Japan - by Eurobasket Center
Saitama Broncos (BJ League) agreed terms with 26-year old American forward Jayme Miller (203-F-85). Miller played most recently at Gelisim Koleji (Turkey). While playing 23 games for Gelisim last season he recorded 14.8ppg and 9.3rpg. Miller played also pro basketball in Holland (Lasaulec Aris Leeuwarden)

*****************************************************

KUWAIT

Interview with Al Kuwait Clubs new Head Coach Vladimir Bosnjak - by Corey Washington
With over 24 Years of coaching experience, Al Kuwait Club is definitely on the right track with Coach Vladimir Bosnjak (agency: 011 Sports ) (agency: 011 Sports ). He is certainly not a new face to Middle East basketball, or his first time coaching in Kuwait. He is one of few FIBA coaches who have coached in 3 different countries and 5 different selections on FIBA competition. Bosnjak is well known as a champion of Asia U-20 champion of West Asia seniors twice (All 3 with Iran) He was also named the National team coach for Libya and Syria. Bosnjak Led Manama club of Bahrain to the National Cup Championship in 2005 and in 2006 he continued his success with Manama winning the league Championship. With great success in Jordan, he was named Coach of the Year in 2009 after taking the young team A.S.U. to the Jordanian Playoffs.With the Kuwait basketball season starting soon, we thought it would be great if Coach Bosnjak could give those of you who have yet to meet him in person, a little insight on how one of the greats prepare for the season.

Eurobasket: First off, welcome to Kuwait. We would like to know more about youTell us a little about Coach Bosnjak in your own words?
Coach Bosnjak: When I first started my coaching career, I grew up under the influence of many great Serbian coaches and I also studied in the U.S.A. under several successful American coaches. So I have learned a lot in the schools between these two locations. I believe in going hard at practice because it makes it a lot easier when it comes to game time. For me, what I teach them is that practice is the most important thing, so when the game comes it is a Show time for players, and they no longer think about the plays.. They just execute!

Eurobasket: Now that you are with Kuwait Club, what are your plans for this club this year that will differ from last year?
Coach Bosnjak: (Laughing) The Difference is that I am new! Just kidding of course, but our new import players are Mohammed Al Hajji and Vladislav Dragojlovic. We expect them to contribute largely if we plan to be successful. We do have one of the best domestic shooter coming back and expected to play team captain. The legendary Yahia is not playing anymore! So it is going to be interesting with our new players. We expect them to come in and compete for playing time in an effort to fill the loss of Yahia- I guess it is a challenge for all the players and for the club in total.

Eurobasket: Acknowledging Ramadan the Holy Month in the Arab world, how are you able to adjust to prepare for the season? Is there a practice session?
Coach Bosnjak:I will begin working next week with the club-but for sure Al Kuwait is such a serious club that they have already organized big workouts individually with members of team. So yes, there has been practice schedules, but we will get more into a rhythm once we have all our players back.

Eurobasket: All coaches have a certain type player they look for to lead their team What type of import players do you typically look for? So many players email me wanting to play basketball in the Middle East. What would you suggest to a young player looking to play Middle East Basketball?
Coach Bosnjak:Well as I said, we took maybe the best 2 imports we could bring from well a known European Agency! But I am sure there are many great guys and players who are still looking for jobs! My message to all players and coaches is; first off if you want to coach in the Middle East you must keep in mind that you have to be better than when you played and coached in Europe or in the States even! Why? Because in Europe, if you are shooting guard and you do not rebound or play the point position, you will not help your club too much here. You must be an all-around player when times of difficulties come for your team! Also a coach coming from Europe may have been successful in Europe, due to the fact that they have great import and local players in Europe and in the States also. A coach could have had average knowledge with many good players and be successful, but in the In Middle East, You must know a lot in order to develop Your Team!

Eurobasket: I have been in this region for a little over 8 years, and I know the violence that some think is everywhere in the streets is completely wrong. I would be the first to say that I feel safer in my home in Kuwait, than I do when I am in the USA. What advice would you give to new imports if they expressed their concern for the Middle East?
Coach Bosnjak: People in Middle East are more sensitive and family oriented. They carry themselves much better like humans instead of violence! They respect old family issues and have great Faith to God! I admire them for this. So anyone who comes in the Middle East has to be devoted to old values similar to what your grandparent is use to. On the other hand sometimes in sports the locals have to be more understanding to imports, with them being foreigners willing to adjust on their customs! HOWEVER LOCAL CUSTOM IS NOT THAT SOME CLUBS STEAL MONEY FROM YOUR PAYCHECKS...I do not recognize this custom and I must say only in one Middle East country, such was Syriathey left me short for some money with the club, but not in the federation. I see some players and coaches reporting this behavior, as being a regular custom there. This makes me sad! When I am giving my soul to clubs and players when I come in- so it is sad that some people will abuse coaches and players. But this happens everywhere in the world not just Middle East

Eurobasket: Imports will not be a problem for you this year with Kuwait Club already inking their Post Player and Guard to contracts. Tell us a little more about your team this year.
Coach Bosnjak:As I explained already, we have great quality on our team this year with our Selection of imports. At the Center position we have Vladislav Dragojlovic coming from Al Ittihad Jeddah. Dragojlovic averaged 21.6 ppg and 13.9 rpg for 7 games at the Asian Club Championships with Al Ittihad.. Last year in Serbia, he averaged 10.8 points and 4.2 boards for Radnicki in Adriatic League. We also have the pleasure of inking one of the best Ghanaian scorer Alhaji Mohammed Mohammed played with Towzin Electric Kashan, of Iran. he played in Spain as a member of Lleida. He averaged 16.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1 steal in 33 games in LEB Gold. Finishing as the 3rd leading scorer. We suffered a great loss of the Kuwait National Team Capt. Yahia... But I have Trust in these people who I coaching!

Eurobasket: Was there any pressure from the club for a championship this year? What are your expectations?

Coach Bosnjak: I have been a foreigner for like last 10 now! I know I was brought here to win! There will be no excuse for me not winning, and I will live with that! This challenge turns me on.... So Kuwait club can expect to win the title this year! I will not accept anything less than a championship, and I put myself on that track!

Eurobasket: When does the season kick off this year? I know some of the players will be with the National team, how will this affect the season?
Coach Bosnjak:In January I guess but do not know for sure! Players with the National team are not with me currently, but they are with the National Team and I know coach Jordanco Davitkov (agency: Global Sports Plaza ) is preparing them well, so this is another advantage!

Eurobasket: I want to thank you for your time and wish you good luck on the season. is there anything you would like us to know about you?
Coach Bosnjak: It is pleasure to work in a country where people love sports and I pray to God We will be good! Hard work is my other name so I think it is a pleasure to try to keep the flag of the Serbian Basketball School. Our coaches and players are everywhere around World! Again hope in future we will talk more-about good things I hope!

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LATVIA

LITHUANIA

Laurynas Mikalauskas heads to Switzerland - by Eurobasket News
Laurynas Mikalauskas (205-F-85, agency: FCM, college: Virginia) will continue his career in Switzerland. The Lithuanian power forward signed a one-year deal with BBC Monthey. Mikalauskas finished last season with Nevezis. He joined them in January averaging 7.5 points and 4 rebounds for 10 games in LKL. He also added 8.8 ppg and 4.8 rpg for 9 games in Baltic league. Mikalauskas started last season with Barons Riga and later spent some time with Naglis-Adakris Palangos. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LKL Newcomer of the Year -11 thanks to 14.7 ppg and 6.7 rpg with Naglis-Adakris Palangos. In the past, Laurynas Mikalauskas played for the Greek Pagrati and Kavala. He graduated at the University of Virginia in 2008. In 2009, Mikalauskas played for the Lithuanian University National Team.

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MONTENEGRO

Kuveljic,Medenica and Milatovic inks for Ulcinj - by Dragan Scepanovic
Basketball Club Ulcinj member of MNE1A league and DELFI SMG Basketball Agency announced that ex player of BC Mornar Marko Kuveljic (197-G/F-88) , ex player of BC Jedinstvo Boban Medenica and ex player of BC Danilovgrad Marko Milatovic (194-G-88) singed contract whit club until end of basketball season 2011-12.Marko Kuveljic last season play for BC Mornar Bar in MNE1A S-league, Boban Medenica play in last season in BC Jedinstvo 25games : 12.4ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.1apg and Marko Milatovic play for BC Danilovgrad 27games : 10.7ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.8apg.

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NBA

Melbourne Tigers land NBA player Patrick Mills - by Eurobasket News
Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) is back to Australia. He signed a deal with the Melbourne Tigers, where he will play next season. Two sides agreed NBA out clause, so Mills will return to the US after the lockout. Mills spent last season with the Portland Trail Blazers. He had 5.4 ppg and 1.7 apg for them in 65 NBA games. Patrick Mills moved to the NBA in 2009, but he got injured in July and had to miss four months. He played 12 games for Portland later registering 2.7 ppg. Mills also appeared five times for the Idaho Stampede collecting 25.6 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 5.4 apg in D-League. Mills is a product of the St.Mary's University, where he graduated two years ago. He had 18.4 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 3.9 apg for his school as a senior. Patrick Mills is active member of the Australian National Team.

Sixers core convenes in L.A. for pickup games - by Eurobasket News
Kevin Durant's prowess on the New York City playground circuit was well documented earlier this summer. The same can be said for the game held in Washington D.C., where basketball players from that area took on a group of players from Los Angeles to see which coast reigns supreme. Nine NBA players participated in that game.

But has one team gathered under one roof to play together for consecutive days in an effort to keep its skills sharp and camaraderie strong during the NBA lockout?

Yes: the Philadelphia 76ers.

For those of you familiar with destination weddings, consider the Sixers' weekend in Los Angeles, where eight current team members met to practice, a destination basketball workshop for family only. These pickup games were not about having as many NBA players participate as possible, rather about having as many Sixers be in attendance as possible.

The guys came out. We are having a great time together, bonding together. Thats what it is about, said Elton Brand (6'8''-F-79, college: Duke) who, along with Louis Williams (6'3''-PG-86), organized the gathering.

I think that creates a winning environment, having each others back out there. So you have to care, you have to grow, you have to know where someone likes the ball. When a guy cant play defense or cant show as well on a pick you have to know that. You have to know that. You have to be there to help your guy and have their back.

In attendance along with Brand and Williams were Andre Iguodala (6'6''-G-84, college: Arizona), Jrue Holiday (6'3''-PG-90, college: UCLA), Evan Turner, Jodie Meeks, Spencer Hawes and Craig Brackins. That list includes last years starting five, their sixth man and a rookie who will likely earn a starting spot whenever the upcoming season does get underway.

Getting together in a gym with no coaches can never mimic a real NBA practice -- it lacks the drills and discipline that makes for a coach being a coach. But the pickup games are intense and, in this case, believe it or not, there was defense being played. The Jrue-Lou matchup was particularly feisty, and watching Brand and Hawes battle in the post was intriguing.

The most we get out of it is being together, Williams said. Pickup is pickup. But I think the most we can get out of it is being in the gym with each other and seeing what guys have been working on and continue to build a camaraderie.

It was clear that guys definitely have not ignored their commitment to their real job despite the work stoppage that is 59 days old with no end in sight.

I see a lot of improvement in Jodie, Evan and Spencer, Brand acknowledged. Evan is looking more athletic. Spencer is running the floor better and Jodie, believe it or not, is even shooting better. Guys are really growing.

Spencer does look a lot more lean. Evan looks more fit too and stronger, Holiday said, echoing Brand's comments. A lot of guys just do what they do like Lou who came out here and just lit it up. But it really is good that we could meet in one place. Our team just has such good chemistry.

Williams hit two game winners straight on from three, reminiscent of Game 4 in the series against Miami. Williams had no problem showing a little swagger as he headed to the sideline for a water break.

And Hawes, the lone restricted free agent participating in the weekend, is running the floor better because he could be this summers poster child for P90X -- that is how in shape he looks.

Everyone looks good, Iguodala added. No one looks like they have added any weight. When you have a lockout situation that tends to be a problem and we havent been bit by that bug which is a really good thing. Hopefully the season starts on time because we would have an advantage. Other guys didnt think the season would be starting and kind of relaxed whereas we are still preparing for any situation.

Iguodala is heading into his eighth season, all of which have been played in a Sixers uniform. Williams came to the organization a year after Iguodala, and Brand is entering is fourth year of his five-year max contract in Philly. Moreover, Holiday, Turner, Meeks, Hawes and Brackins are all 24-years old or younger. That group is the core of a team that went 41-41 last season.

They are staunch believers that if given the opportunity to stay together they can absolutely improve on that record.

You look at teams that have had some success. Dallas (the defending champs), they have been together for a number of years, Williams remarked. Obviously, the Spurs have had the core of their team together for God knows how long and I think with this group we are going to have the same opportunity with guys building together and having that camaraderie to try and build something special.

Once you have trust in one another you want to do anything on the court for each other, Turner added. It is all about teamwork. I think the biggest thing is team -- caring about one another and not caring who gets the credit.

Noticeably missing were Thaddeus Young and Marreese Speights. Young, like Hawes, is a restricted free agent. Speights has one year remaining on his deal. Brand did make a point to say that guys who were not in attendance had previous commitments.

Everyone involved said if the lockout stretches on they would reconvene for more workshops throughout the fall.

Doug Collins would be impressed. The passion he imparted not just to the fans last year but to his players has rubbed off and remained. Or maybe like Collins, his players had it in them all along.

Said Iguodala: I think they know we have a good group of guys.

Courtesy of www.csnphilly.com

LeBron James to play in exhibition game - by Eurobasket News
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) says he will be joining fellow NBA All-Stars Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas), Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) and Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) for a game in Baltimore on Tuesday.

'I'm in,' James said Sunday.

The game is perhaps the biggest yet in a series of summer exhibitions featuring players who are waiting for the NBA lockout to end. Durant has been at the center of many of those matchups, scoring 66 points one night at New York's famed Rucker Park and later leading Washington's Goodman League to a 135-134 victory over the Drew League from Los Angeles.

James, Paul and Anthony are all scheduled to be on the same team Tuesday.

Anthony is a Baltimore native, and proceeds from ticket sales will go to charities that the New York Knicks star is involved with.

Courtesy of ESPN

Adelman reportedly very interested in T-Wolves job - by Eurobasket News
Longtime NBA coach Rick Adelman , who had to be persuaded to talk with the Minnesota Timberwolves about being their next head coach, is very interested in the job, KSTP-TV in Minneapolis reported, citing a great source.

Heres how interested: He has made phone calls to would-be assistants, the TV station reported, again citing its source.

Who might these people be? The Minneapolis Star Tribune wrote, If Adelman indeed is lining up assistants, names to watch: Jack Sikma, T.R. Dunn and Adelman's son, R.J.

Sikma and Dunn were on Adelman's Rockets staff.

Other potential candidates for the Timberwolves job are Larry Brown, Sam Mitchell and Don Nelson.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Javaris Crittenton murder charges: FBI hunting for former NBA player charged in death - by Eurobasket News
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is helping police in Atlanta and Los Angeles search for a former NBA player wanted for murder.

FBI Special Agent Steve Emmett in Atlanta told The Associated Press on Sunday that the agency is involved as police look for Javaris Crittenton (6'5''-G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech). Authorities say Crittenton is charged in the fatal shooting of 22-year Jullian Jones, a mother of four who was gunned down Aug. 19 in Atlanta..

Atlanta police spokesman Sgt. Curtis Davenport said Crittenton was not in custody as of Sunday afternoon. He declined further comment.

Authorities say Jones likely was not the intended target when Crittenton fired shots from an SUV. Authorities say Crittenton was retaliating for an April robbery in which he was a victim.

Crittenton spent the 2006-07 season at Georgia Tech and played in 113 NBA games.

Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

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PARAGUAY

Paraguay National Team loses against QUILMES - by Santiago Maciel
In its way to MAR DEL PLATA , our National Team got defeated by QUILMES de MAR DEL PLATA in a test match game with the tradittional argentinian team.
The score favored the Quilmes team 87 to 78. However, our team did not play with all its potentiallity due to the soon debut against the powerful Argentina National team at the PRE OLIMPIC tournament.

Javier Martinez (189-G-78, agency: Dream Team Management) , Bruno Zanotti (197-F-82, college: Merrimack) and Jose Fabio played fewer minutes than usual, keeping energy for the tremendous objective of qualifying to LONDON 2012.
It will not be easy due to only 2 places available for all the AMERICAS.

Roman Roman Gonzalez (211-C-78, agency: Interperformances) and the american native Hodson were the superlatives in QUILMES.

Statistics went as the following in last night's game:

Refs: Alejandro Ramallo y Roberto Smith.
Quilmes (87): Hodson 18, Newbold 6, Morris 6, Ferreyra 14 , Roman Gonzalez 20. Coach: Daniel Maffei, Pineiro 7, Eseverri 4, Gorostiaga 5, Vidolza 5 , Bustamante 2.
PARAGUAY N.T (78): Federico Mellone 2, Daniel Perez (190-G/F-84) 10, Javier Martnez 7, Guillermo Araujo 14 , Christian Rodas 10 Coach: Arturo lvarez, Jose Fabio 4, Gustavo Torres 9, Richard Ozuna 5, Bruno Zanottii 5, Alejandro Peralta, Ramon Sanchez , Adolfo Lpez 2.

Final: Quilmes 87 (25, 17, 20, 25)-Paraguay 78 (22, 14, 20, 22).

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PERU

Naval strengthens its roster with two american players - by Timothy
Club Centro Naval del Peru has made crucial moves this month to help their seeding going into the playoffs by adding two American players. Antonio Davis (198-F-82, college: Urbana) returns after playing with Club Centro Naval del Peru last season. His size and athleticism will help Club Centro Naval del Peru on both ends of the court. Mike Mokeski (206-F/C) was also brought in this month to help improve the club's front court presence. Mike is the son of ex NBA player Paul Mokeski. Both these import players will help Club Centro Naval del Peru to compete with other teams in the superior league that have also added import players to their rosters.

Standings - Superior

Superior Standings

1. Regatas		24-2
2. Real Club		23-3
3. Escuela Fap		19-6
4. El Bosque		18-10
5. Inmaculada		16-11
6. Ejercito		11-16
7. Centro Naval		11-16
8. San Augustin		8-20
9. San Marcos		3-25
10. Universitario		1-25

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POLAND

Akselis Vairogs signs with Slask Wroclaw - by Eurobasket News
Akselis Vairogs (195-F-85, agency: Players Group) signs with Slask Wroclaw for the upcoming season. The Latvian Forward agreed terms with Polish side.
Almost for the whole career the player spent with BK Ventspils. In 2009 Latvian League after 25 games he averaged 9.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 72.5%, while in EuroChallenge his stats read 6.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.7apg. In Baltic League (Elite Group) after 18 games he showed 7.2ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 23.7%, FT: 59.1%.
In Jan.'10 signed at BK Zemgale Jelgava (LBL, starting five)but later that month moved to JSA Bordeaux Basket (France-ProB). In 13 games he averaged 10.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 57.7%. In 2010-2011 moved back to BK Ventspils (LBL, starting five) and in Baltic League had 8.2ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 60.0%. In EuroChallenge his stats read 5.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 71.4%, while in Latvian League he averaged 9.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 71.4%.
Last year together with Ventspils held off Barons/LMT in a dramatic seventh game of the LBL Final to claim the title. Ventspils needed two years to return the trophy after they defeated Barons for the golden medals in 2006. The decisive seventh game turned into an exciting battle of two best teams in Latvia. Akselis Vairogs came up with some vital buckets in overtime to propel Ventspils to the triumph

Lukasz Diduszko stays with SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg - by Eurobasket News
Lukasz Diduszko (197-F-86) stays with SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg also for the next season. The Polish Forward will play for his second year in a row. Lukasz Diduszko came to Kotwica from Znicz Jaroslaw. He appeared 10 times with them in PLK collecting 6.3 ppg and 5.4 pg. Diduszko started last season with AZS Koszalin, but in February moved to Znicz. In the past he also played for AZS AWF Katowice.
In 2010-2011 for SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg (PLK) after 21 games he averaged 3.3ppg, 3.7rpg. He recorded 10 points at the Regular Season Round 21 when SKK Kotwica rolled over Zastal 76-66.The game was mostly controlled by SKK Kotwica. Zastal was better in third quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was dominated by American players. Four SKK Kotwica players scored in double figures.

Anwil and Tomasz Cielebak part ways - by Eurobasket News
Tomasz Cielebak (203-F-76, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Marist) is no longer a member of Anwil Wloclawek. The player did not pass medical examination. Cielebak spent last season with Polpharma. He played 26 games for them in PLK averaging 8.8 points and 4 rebounds. Before Polpharma, Cielebak spent one year in Germany as a member of New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. There he had 5.4 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 30 games in German league. He helped Braunschweig to reach the Playoff Semifinals. From 2007 to 2009, Tomasz Cielebak played for SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg. They won the Polish Cup in 2009. Cielebak also won the Polish Cup with Polpharma this year. He played for Hungarian Kormend, Legia Warszawa and Slask Wroclaw in the past.

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PORTUGAL

Eurobasket The magnificent 12! - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
Here are the players Portugal will present in the Eurobasket 2011 in Lithuania:

Philippe Da Silva (192-G-79)

The starting PG is the Portuguese player with more international experience,due to his years in France. A fantastic ball handler, might not be in his best shape, but is a decisive player in this team. In the clutch, he usually gets the ball to decide.

Carlos Andrade (197-F-78, college: Queens, NC)
A former Small Forward, appears, in the last years, as a shooting guard, both in Porto and in the National Team. Hes a fighter, can get a lot of rebounds and is a sharp shooter both inside and outside. Physically strong, he is a top defender.

Joao Santos (205-C-79, college: Nevada)
Probably the Portuguese player with more conditions to have an international career, due to his physical condition and intelligence. After some season in Spain, he has come to Portugal to be champion in Benfica and Porto. Excellent shooter, he can be hard to stop when inspired.

Miguel Miranda (205-F-78)
Miranda is ready for everything, as you might see him shooting threes or attacking the rim as a center! He sacrifices his numbers for the team. Miranda can also be one of the hearts of the team, as he can stay focus and call his teammates to the fight during the 40 minutes.

Elvis Evora (205-C-78)
A very experienced center, vora was really the only inside Portuguese player before Fonseca was called this season. Not a quick player, but with a good hands and a strong mind. vora is much stronger in defense and, with the right amount of time on court, can be a great weapon.

Antonio Tavares (183-G-75)
Tavares frightened everyone with an injury in the last game, but hell be ready to play in Lithuania. One of the first players to come in from the bench, hes the most creative and aggressive offensive player. Great shooter, can decide games in not much minutes.

Miguel Minhava (197-G-83)
A tall Point Guard, Minhava made one of his best seasons with Benfica. He appears to be more aggressive and with a much better shooting selection. Hes a good cover to Da Silva and Costa, the veterans who will have more time on court.

Jose Costa (187-G-73)
At 37, Costa won his first League title and will now be present in Eurobasket for the first time. Hes the captain and is a very important player, being a great team director and also a good shooter.

Claudio Fonseca (206-C-89)
A surprise only to those who havent see his growing in Guimares, during this season. With no injuries, Fonseca worked on his confidence and Mrio Palma didnt hesitate to give him a role in the team. During the AQR, he was better than Gonalves and will be a presence in Portugal inside game.

Marco Goncalves (208-C-84)
With a very good season in Casino Figueira, Gonalves is more a Power Forward than a Center, as he isnt very strong. He has shown some difficulties to play at international level, but will help to stop the taller opponents.

Jose Silva (194-F-89)
Young but experienced, Silva makes his second summer with the National Team. Can be called when the team need some quickness to take the ball to offense.

Fernando Sousa (192-F/G-81)
He would probably be out if Paulo Cunha stayed fit. In the Portuguese League, Sousa is one of the best Small Forwards of the competition and a great outside shooter. In the National Team, hes not much more than a role player, important to give some rest to his teammates.

Check out for more at www.porbasket.blogspot.com

Joao da Costa Coach - Jordanian For A Day - by Hugo Carvalho
Where in the World do you have the opportunity during practice to stop for a water break and have a member of the gym bring you a cup of hot tea or Turkish coffee?

Where in the World do you have the opportunity on your days off to cross the dessert for a few hours and end up at the Red Sea in a luxury resort like Tela Bay?

Where in the World do you have the opportunity to travel only 45 minutes and relax in the Dead Sea?

Among these opportunities there is even more that the Country of Jordan has to offer. A visit to Petra will change you forever. Petra is a magical, historical, outrageous, out of this World city. One of the Seven Wonders of the World Petra is number one for me.

As you can imagine it will cost you to travel and see what Jordan has to offer. I was lucky because I had a wonderful friend and assistant coach, Fadi Sabat, who took care to arrange these visits and take me to see the sights. I still looked for ways to cut costs and we would argue because I wanted to lunch someplace cheap and he would tell me that was not a good idea. I wanted to pay 5 JD versus 40 JD. In the end it ended up costing us with stomach cramps and time on the toilet. Hot tea was the only way to calm down our financial situation.

During my time in Jordan I stayed in Amman. I shopped and interacted with the people daily and the people of Jordan are extremely friendly, peaceful and eager to assist a stranger. They totally accepted me into their city and culture. I felt like a part of the Jordanian family which made me proud.

As I said the people are calm, that is until they get behind the wheel of a car. My first drive to the gymnasium, I thought I would die of a heart attack. I felt myself hanging onto anything to keep me braced for impact I was certain we would crash any moment. The traffic is intense, fast and seems to flow without rules. Driving is not for the faint of heart. The driver, coach Abd, was so skillful and certain of what he was doing that he could have been scouted as a Formula One driver and won easily!

The Basketball community in Jordan is fantastic! The coaches and players are serious about basketball and very respectful, coachable and enthusiastic.
The members of the Federation are simply the best.

For those of you that have the chance to coach or play in Jordan please do not hesitate.
You will have the experience of a lifetime.

Thank you Jordan for letting me be Jordanian for a day.

Special thanks to: Gheith Najjar, Fadi Sabat, Abd al Hafeth Nubani, Rizk Wahid al Masri, Fadi Sabah for making this possible for me.

By Coach JC

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ROMANIA

Timisoara blasts Crnokosa 73-49 in a friendly game - by Eurobasket News
Timosoara started with pre-season games more than a week ago. In the latest friendly match they met Serbian team Crnokosa Kosjeric. Romanians dominated from the beginning having no troubles to register 73-49 win at the end. Crnokosa was simply not able to compete facing with huge loss. Point guard Zlatko Jovanovic (181-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket) led the winners with 16 points. Bogdan Popescu (201-F-78, college: Alaska-Fairb.) had 13 points and Robert Sarovic (205-F-78) delivered 12 pts. Timisoara is set to play more friendlies. They will meet Tamis Pancevo tomorrow. On Wednesday, the Romanian squad will play against Metalac Valjevo. Finally, on Friday Timisoara will take on Hemofarm Vrsac. Hemoram was the runner-up in Serbia last season.

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RUSSIA

Krasnie Krilya surprise Benetton in Domegge - by Eurobasket News
Benetton- Krasnie Krilya 68:75

Krasnie Krilya surprised Benetton in Domegge in the friendly game between two sides. The Russian team grabbed 75:68 taking the easy start.
The Russian team opened the game with 25:11 and looked much better than the opponents. In the second quarter the Italian team however pulled back and reduced to 40:36 at the halftime. Only some important baskets gave Samara 13-point advantage at the end of the third period and they managed to keep the score for good. The board showed 75:68 at the end of the game as both sides took the picture for the memories.
Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87, agency: Alti Sport) stepped up with 17 points, while Joe Alexander (203-F-86, college: W.Virginia) scored 16. Fedor Likholitov (210-C-80, college: VCU) netted 14 and Kolesnikov notched 12. Alessandro Gentile (198-G/F-92) ended up with 17 points for the Italian team and E'Twaun Moore (192-G-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Purdue) as well as Adrien netted 15 apiece.

Benetton: Adrien 15 (7/13), Becirovic 7 (1/1,1/1), E'Twaun Moore 15 (6/11,0/8), Sandri n.e. , De Nicolao 4 (2/6), Ivanov 0 , Cuccarolo 0 (0/1), Alessandro Gentile 17 (3/7,3/4), Gaspardo n.e., Wojchiechowski 8 (1/3,2/3), Scalabrine 2 (1/5,0/2), Masocco n.e. All. Djordjevic
Krasnie Krilya: Rush 9, Dedushkin 1, Dragan Labovic 17, Urazmanov 0, Arteshin n.e., Kolesnikov 12, Balashov 0, Joe Alexander 16, Hayes 4, Levter n.e., Surovtsev 0, Miles 2, Fedor Likholitov 14. All. Bazarevich

Enisey and Spartak Primorye start friendlies - by Eurobasket News
Enisey lost to BC Donetsk that has got the second triumph at the pre-season training camp in Belgrade. Vule Avdalovic and DeMarcus Nelson were so active in defence that Russians scored the first points just at the fifth minute - 16:3. Ukrainian team won the first period 27-11 and added 25-18 in the second frame. The third quarter also belonged to Donetsk, while Enisey managed to win the last stanza 21-15. Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona) and Lee stepped up with 12 points each for the winners and Komarovskiy posted 9. Lonny Baxter (204-C-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Maryland) ended up with 18 points in the losing effort and Hukic scored 13.
Spartak Primorye won over Croatian Zabok 98:75. Trailing 20:22 after the first period, the Russian team needed 23-12 in the third to take the lead in the game. Moreover they added 27-14 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Sergey Karaulov (214-C-82, agency: Alti Sport) and Aleksandr Pavlov (202-F-86, agency: RIZO) stepped up with 17 points apiece for the winners, while Goliakhov Aleksei netted 12.

Blatt cut Eugeny Voronov and Egor Vyaltsev - by Eurobasket News
David Blatt cut Eugeny Voronov (193-G-86) and Egor Vyaltsev (192-G-85) out of Top 12 to represent Russia at Eurobasket 2011. The Head Coach of the Russian team thanked the players for their contribution.
Egor Vyaltsev is a player of Khimky. Last year he played for Trumph Lyubertsy that he joined in 2007-2008. Last season for Triumph Lyubertsy in Russian League Egor Vyaltsev averaged high 14.4ppg, 2.5rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), 1.0spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 83.2%.
Eugeny Voronov is a player of CSKA. Recently CSKA Moscow announced signing of Russian guard Eugeny Voronov as two sides penned 1+1 year deal. Voronov spent last season with Dynamo Moscow. He shined with 12.8 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 2.7 apg and 1.8 spg for them in 25 PBL games.
Russia starts the Eurobasket 2011 with the game against Ukraine on August 31st.

Russia:
Sergey Bykov

Andrey Vorontsevich

Viktor Khryapa

Andrei Kirilenko

Timofey Mozgov

Sergey Monya

Anton Ponkrashov

Vitaly Fridzon
Alexey Shved

Semen Antonov

Nikita Shabalkin

Dmitry Khvostov

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SERBIA

Igor Rakocevic joins Crvena Zvezda Beograd for training camp - by Eurobasket News
Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) joined Crvena Zvezda Beograd for the training camp. The Serbian scorer will stay with the team until September 5. After that Rakocevic will decide about his future, to sign with Crvena Zvezda Beograd or to join some other team. Igor Rakocevic spent last two seasons with Efes Pilsen. In the latest one he had 17.2 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 1.7 apg in 14 Eurolegaue games. He ended as third scorer of the competition. In Turkish league, Rakocevic collected 12.7 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 1.9 apg. He joined Efes Pilsen two years ago from Tau Ceramica. With Tau Rakocevic was top-scorer of the ACB with 19.4 ppg. He played for Tau from 2006 to 2009. Rakocevic also has experience from Real Madrid, Pamesa and Buducnost. He spent few years in the past with Crvena Zvezda, where he started as a teenager.

Metalac beats Radnicki Karagujevac 84-78 in a friendly - by Eurobasket News
Metalac - Radnicki Kragujevac 84-78

Metalac and Radnicki Karagujevac met in a friendly game this weekend. Metalac celebrated 84-78 win as a guest. Stefan Sinovec (195-G-88) was their leading player with 30 points. Stefan Atanackovic (196-G-84, agency: 011 Sports) secured a nice help with 17 points and Danilo Draskovic (207-C-86, agency: BeoExcell) had 11 pts. In defeat, Miljan Pavkovic (178-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) was way better than the others with 33 points. He reached valuation 43 and was the MVP of this meeting. Metalac celebrates in this game thanks to nice last quarter (32-23). Before that, Metalac opened this meeting with 14-10 lead, but Radnicki responded with 15-20 until the halftime. Third period also belonged to Radnicki (23-25), who was up by 3 with 10 minutes to go. As mentioned above, Stefan Sinovec and his teammates shined when it mattered most and celebrated in this friendly game.

Metalac: Stefan Sinovec 30, Stefan Atanackovic 17, Danilo Draskovic 11
Radnicki Kragujevac: Miljan Pavkovic 33

Metalac signs Danilo Draskovic - by Eurobasket News
Danilo Draskovic (207-C-86, agency: BeoExcell) is a new member of Metalac Valjevo. The power forward signed a one-year deal with his new club. Draskovic started last season with Radnicki Kragujevac, but played just one official game for them. They parted ways in October. In 2009/10 season, Draskovic changed three teams. He started with Greek Xanthi, but left them before the season. In December Draskovic joined Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje and later finished the season on Cyprus with Etha. From 2006 to 2009, Danilo Draskovic played for Radnicki 034 Group. He had 14.6 ppg and 8.7 rpg for them in Balkan league 2008/09. He had almost the same numbers in Serbian league that season. Draskovic played for Primorka Bar and Bijelo Polje in the past.

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SPAIN

Caja Laboral keep Ander Garcia - by Eurobasket News
Caja Laboral keep Ander Garcia (192-G-89) for 2011/2012 season. The Spanish 1989-year-born player will continue with the squad.
In 2007-2008 he joined Tau Ceramica Vitoria (ACB) and debuted in Euroleague. In 2008-2009 he moved to Balneario Archena (LEB Bronze) and in 33 games averaged 3.6ppg, 1.8rpg.
In 2009-2010 played for Santa Pola Lucentum Alicante (EBA, starting five) averaging 8.5ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 53%, 3PT: 29%, FT: 71%. The season 2010-2011 Ander started for Establencimientos Otero Xuven Cambados (EBA) but in Dec.'10 moved to Caja Laboral Vitoria (ACB).
Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) meanwhile will have to undergo the surgery in the States. Caja Laboral is negotiating with him and his agent to lower a lot his salary but keeping him in the team. Early in June Caja Laboral announced signing of a two-year deal with the Polish big guy Maciej Lampe. The 26-year-old Lampe had amazing season with Unics Kazan. He helped them win the EuroCup title averaging 15.6 points and 8.1 rebounds for 16 games.

Lleida signs Marcus Norris - by Eurobasket News
Marcus Norris (185-G-74, agency: SportsTalent, college: Ball St.) is a new member of Lleida. The American point guard, with Croatian passport, penned a one-year deal with his new team. He heads to Lleida from Erdemir, where he spent last season. For 7 games in TBL Norris averaged 4.1 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists. Marcus Norris played for Gran Canaria from 2005 until the last summer. In their last season together he had 7.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 3.7 apg for 36 games in ACB. He also added 7.4 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 3.4 apg in 14 EuroCup games. Before Granca, Norris was a member of Kyiv, Bnei Hasharon and Portugal Telecom Lisbona. He also has experience from Finland and Croatia. Marcus Norris won two titles and National Cups with Portugal Telecom Lisbona. In 2005, he won the Ukrainian league title with Kyiv. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Guard of the Year -05.

Menorca add Oliver Arteaga and Cesar Bravo - by Eurobasket News
Menorca add Oliver Arteaga (211-C-83) and Cesar Bravo (200-F-81) for 2011/2012 season.
Oliver Arteaga is a Spanish Center that played in his country his whole career. Later in 2009-2010 he played for Faymasa Palencia (LEB Silver, starting five) and in 34 games averaged 13.2ppg, Reb-5 (8.2rpg), FGP-2 (63.9%), FT: 69.9%. In 2010-2011 moved to Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (LEB Gold, starting five) and after 41 games showed 11.3ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 57.6%, FT: 71.4%.
Cesar Bravo is a Spanish Forward who in In Sep.'08 tested at Caceres 2016 C.B. (LEB Gold) and in 7 games averaged 2.7ppg, 1.4rpg. In March '09 moved to WTC Almeda Park Cornella (LEB Silver) and in 11 games had 6.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT-1 (94.1%). In 2009-2010 continued with CB Cornella (LEB Gold), left in Dec.'09 and in 12 games averaged 6.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 25.6%, 3PT: 52.4%, FT: 87.0%.The last season played for CB Prat Juventud (LEB Silver, starting five) and in 32 games his stats read 7.5ppg, 3.5rpg, FGP: 39.3%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 79.2%.

Estela signs Alberto Miguel - by Mariano Galindo
Alberto Miguel (188-G-77) is a new member of Estela, team that will play again this season in EBA league. Miguel is a spanish guard who played in Adecco Oro the last seasons. Burgos was his last team before join Estela. In spite of he received good offers to continue playing in the second spanish league, he refused them to be at home and come back to the place, Cantabria, where he started to play proffesional basketball. Alberto Miguel (188-G-77) is the most important signing in the whole EBA league up to now. With Miguel, Estela becomes in one of the most powerful teams in EBA.

Gandia returns Guilherme Gitterer and Javi Alvarado - by Eurobasket News
Guilherme Gitterer (204-C-85) and Javier Alvarado (183-PG-85) are back to Gandia after one year.
Guilherme Gitterer spent last season with Plasencia Extramadura. He appeared 31 times for them in LEB Silver registering 8.7 ppg and 5.5 rpg. In 2009/10 with Gandia Gutterer had 12.5 ppg and 7.5 for 15 games in EBA. He played for Huesca, Liria and Brazilian EC Pinheiros Sao Paulo in the past. Gitterer also played for Gandia in 2007/08.
Javier Alvarado spent last season with Tenerife Rural. He helped them win Spanish EBA Group B regular season title. Alvarado shined for Gandia in 2009/10. He had 14.6 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 3.3 apg for them in 25 games (EBA).

Melilla inks PG Jose Antonio Marco - by Eurobasket News
Jose Antonio Marco (180-PG-89) will play next season for Melilla. The Spanish point guard penned a one-year deal with his new team. Marco spent last season with LEB Silver team Tarragona. He had 7.6 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 3.5 apg for them in 37 games. He helped them reach Playoff Semifinals. Before Tarragona, Jose Antonio Marco spent three years with Murcia. However, he had very limited playing time with them. In the past, Marco was a member of Caja San Fernando Sevilla II. Jose Antonio Marco played for the Spanish U20 National Team in 2008 and 2009. He helped them win two Bronze medals in U18 EuroBaskets. In 2007, he played for U18 Spain.

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SWITZERLAND

BBC Monthey signs Laurynas Mikalauskas - by Luca Maffioli
BBC Monthey announced signing of Laurynas Mikalauskas (205-F-85, agency: FCM, college: Virginia). The Lithuanian power forward/center will replace Jeremy Price (203-F-88, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Georgia). Mikalauskas, graduated at The University of Virginia, started his pro-career in Greece with Kavala/Panorama and Pagrati Athens. He spent last season at BK Barons Riga (3 games), Naglis-Adakris Palangos (14.7ppg and 6.7rpg in 9 games of Lithuanian League) and Nevezis Kedainiai. With Nevezis he appeared 10 times in Lithuanian League (7.5 points and 4.0 rebounds) and 9 times in Baltic League (8.8 points and 4.8 rebounds). Mikalauskas was named Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LKL Newcomer of the Year -11.

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TURKEY

Galatasaray and Erdemir celebrate in pre-season games - by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray shined in a friendly game against Darussafaka. They blasted Dacka 79-34. Cevher Ozer (206-F/C-83, agency: 1x1 Sports) led Galata in scoring with 16 points. Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) had 13 points, while Huseyin Koksal (195-F-91) had 8. Sertac Sanli (212-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) (6 rebs) and Tutku Acik (194-G-80) netted 7 points each. Galatasary took control on their rival from the very beginning and never looked back. They made 36-20 lead and were just extending it after that. Galatasaray will play more friendlies this week.
Erdemir also played a friendly game. They grabbed 66-63 win against Gaziantep. Gerrod Henderson (192-G-78, college: Louisiana Tech) and Soner Senturk (194-G-86, agency: 1x1 Sports) stepped up for Erdemir with 14 points each. Mesut Ademoglu (207-F/C-82, college: NW Nazarene) also had 14 points, but in defeat.

Orhun Ene announced Final 12 to head to Eurobasket - by Eurobasket News
Orhun Ene announced Final 12 to head to Eurobasket and left Dogus Balbay (185-G-89, college: Texas) out of the squad. He thanked the player for his contribution to the team and effort.
Dogus Balbay is a player of Anadalo Efes Pilsen. Last year Dogus Balbay came back to Turkey where he started in 2004-2005 for Fenerbahce Istanbul (D1). In 2007-2008 Dogus Balbay moved to Texas (NCAA) and in the last season had 4.1ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.2apg. In 2008 for the National team Dogus Balbay exploded with 20 points in the game versus Lithuania. He also added 7 assists and 5 rebounds in his top game.
Turkey starts the campaign against Portugal on August 31st. The latter grabbed the last, second ticket from the Additional Qualifying Round to advance to Eurobasket 2011. In their last game Finland registered the fourth straight win at the 2011 EuroBasket Additional Qualifying Round. They upset Portugal on the road to clinch 4-0 record. Portugal finished at 2-2 record and also reached 2011 EuroBasket.

Turkey:
Oguz Savas (208-C-87),

Enes Kanter (208-C-92, college: Kentucky),

Ersan Ilyasova (207-F-87),

Hidayet Turkoglu (206-F-79),

Cenk Akyol (196-G-87),

Emir Preldzic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket),

Ender Arslan (190-G-83),

Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79),

Omer Onan (194-G-78),

Omer Asik (213-C-86),

Izzet Turkyilmaz (210-F-90),

Sinan Guler (193-G-83, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Carroll, MT)

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UKRAINE

Halychyna in Lithuania - by Alexei Revenko
Politekhnika-Halychyna prepared for the season in Lithuania where played friendly games.
Politekhnika-Halychyna - B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas 74:68 (Muhammad El-Amin (196-G/F-87, college: Stony Brook) 14 points, Lemik 10 points, Vedran Morovic (184-G-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Olney Central CC) 10 points and 4 asissts, Polylyak10 points)
Today Politekhnika-Halychyna played against Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius. Politekhnika-Halychyna start very well and win first period 21-15. First half ended with score 40-40. In the second half opponents of the ukrainian team played well and win game 80:68. In winners Mindaugas Katelynas (205-F-83, college: Chattanooga) scored 14 points.

MBC Mykolaiv and Vladislav Tonchenko part ways - by Eurobasket News
Vladislav Tonchenko (185-G-89) is no longer a member of MBC Mykolaiv. They parted ways yesterday and Tonchenko is already in search for the new job. The Ukrainian point guard is a product of MBC Mykolaiv, where he started as teenager. However, he had very limited playing time with the club over the past few years. Last season he appeared 15 times in Superleague averaging less than a point. In 2009/10, he had 1.6 ppg for 21 games. Almost the same numbers Tonchenko registered in 2007/08 and 2008/09. Vladislav Tonchenko played for Ukrainian U20 and U16 National Teama in the past. In 2007, he helped U20 Ukraine to win the Silver at the European Championships U20 Division B in Warsaw. Tonchenko had 2.4 ppg and 1.6 rpg for 5 games at this event. Two years ago he also played for U20 Ukraine at the European Championships U20 in Rhodos. There Tonchenko averaged 8.4 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists for 8 games.

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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Lady Braves blitz Ballarat rivals - by Eurobasket News
THE Champions IGA Bendigo Lady Braves tipped off the SEABL play-offs by thrashing Ballarat Rush by 27 points in Saturday nights elimination final.
Bendigo was never headed on the way to a 74-47 victory before a packed Bendigo Stadium showcourt.

With elimination at stake, a Braves atatck led by Megan Moody (188-G/F-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Tulsa), 17 points; Kelly Wilson (170-G-84), 16; Heather Oliver (178-G-87, college: USC), 14; and captain Lauren King, 13; reigned supreme.

Bendigo coach Lukas Carey said defensive intensity played a big part in the win.

To keep a team as strong as Ballarat to 47 points was a fantastic performance, Carey said.

Andrea Wilson and Toni Edmondson played crucial roles in limiting the scoring output of Rush star and New Zealand captain Natalie Taylor, who scored a game-high 25 points and racked up 14 rebounds when Ballarat won their previous showdown against Bendigo.

Although she did not score a point, Andrea Wilson was named Bendigos MVP in the elimination final.

The play of Andrea and Toni against Natalie Taylor, who had averaged 30 points a game the past month, was outstanding, Carey said.

Its not often a game MVP has not scored a point, but Andreas work to keep Taylor scoreless in the second half went a long way to winning this final.

Carey said there were many factors behind Bendigos victory, but said trust in preparation was important.

Joe Turner (assistant coach) and myself put a lot of work into scouting for this match and working on various strategies for Ballarats offensive and defensive plays. The team followed instructions and stuck to the game plan brilliantly, Carey said.

Communication on the court is a lot better and we just have kept on getting better in all areas of our game over the last six weeks.

The Lady Braves are on the road this Saturday to play Kilsyth Cobras.

Kilsyth beat Nunawading, 80-47, in last Saturday nights second elimination final.

We have beaten Kilsyth both times this season, Carey said.

Jane Chalmers will be available to play after being sidelined on Saturday night with an injury, while Kilsyth and Opals star Abby Bishop is likely to line up.

The second semi-final between the Cobras and Lady Braves tips off at 7.30pm at Kilsyth Stadium.
By NATHAN DOLE
Courtesy of: www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au

Canberra's Girls Retake Waratah Crown - by Eurobasket News
Exactly twelve months ago a team of young women representing Canberra set out on the long bus trip back from Newcastle, shaken after their absolute best efforts had been rebuffed by an incredibly on-song opponent in the Waratah Championship Grand Final.

Despite the obvious temptation to wallow in the injustice of so many months of winter practices, sponsorship searching, social organising and general commitment seemingly going to waste, there was a palpable resolve that fermented in that bus to get back on the horse for next year and go one step further.

Roll forward to Sunday afternoon and in what can only be described as scenes of spontaneous, unbridled joy, the Canberra Nationals truly exorcised 2010s demons and then some with a stunning 66-35 win over defending title-holders Bankstown to take the associations first Waratah title since 2002.

For Head Coach Sandy Tomley , Assistant Kim Crocker, Team Manager Vicki Vince and every one of the players from inspirational captain Michaela Dalgleish right through to 16 year-old rookie Claire King, the satisfaction of crafting a program entirely from girls playing in local ACT senior and junior leagues and building a culture of commitment and fun that ultimately achieves the pre-season goals is about as satisfying as team sport gets.

The details of the actual semi final win over Manly Warringah on Saturday and Grand Final dominance of the benchmark Bruins are almost academic in many senses, though Basketball NSW has all the details from their spectacularly successful weekend of Waratah Championship, State League and Youth League finals here and specific details of Canberras Grand Final result here.

For the record, every one of the pieces that make up the team did exactly what they were supposed to do in Sundays Grand Final with leading scorers Dalgleish and Teagan Burke leading the way statistically but being complimented by theoretical swing-man Alyce Shearings superior inside play, Shelley Wests craft and experience, Beth Wests indomitable competitive output, Kate Rowes peculiarly smooth multi-positional play, Lauren Jansens virtuoso point-guard hybrid, Sarah Johnstons reliably stable leadership and the learning curve contributions of juniors Abbie Davis, Kathryn Rendell and King.

However from an observers perspective the growth of another youngster, Julie Ticehurst, and the sheer and unaffected exhilaration she displayed when the final buzzer sounded and she leapt headlong into a chaotic pile of her celebrating team-mates spoke more than any other single thing about the value and worth of having a representative program in a community based sporting organisation like Basketball ACT.

On this weekend the team and situational outcomes that happen in all team sports necessitated a rotation that didnt see her on the court for vastly extended periods. Despite this, Julie embraced the opportunities the team needed her to provide with her usual commitment and preparedness and as with everyone else, did what great teams do and supported, encouraged and stayed focused on the team outcomes.

The final piece of Julie and the representative programs puzzle will not be found in the weekend title results though and any casual observer at Wednesday nights Premier Womens over the past twelve months and more will be better able to tell of the development of Julie (and others) the Waratah program has facilitated that has seen her blossom into one of the ACT Premier Leagues best and most potent players.

Hopefully every participant involved in Basketball ACT programs will take pleasure in the girls achievement in representing the association and if any final piece of evidence was needed about the varied contributions the game of basketball requires it would have been seen in the appointments of ACT referees Claire Stevenson (Waratah) and Simon Cosier (SEABL) to respective league finals rounds this weekend and the presence of ACT statistics and score-table officials Richard Noble, Kathy McCarthy and Annette Shipard on games and in educational roles in Newcastle over the weekend.
Courtesy of: canberragunners.asn.au

2011 Waratah League Finals Weekend - by Eurobasket News
August 27th & 28th, 2011
Newcastle Basketball Stadium
Game Report - #4024 Championship Women Grand Final

In the first of the Championship Division Grand Finals, it was perennial finalists Bankstown taking on the Canberra Nationals in a rematch of last years final. Bankstown got off to a slow start and Canberra took control of the game early. Heading into the first break it was the Nationals up 6.
Canberra 17 Bankstown 11
The Nationals continued to turn it on in the second with Teagan Burke and Michaela Dalgleish hitting several outside shots and both finishing with double digit scoring in the half. Bankstown were in a deep offensive hole and didn't manage to score their first points for the quarter until 90 seconds left in the half. At the main break it was Canberra up an incredible 23 points.
Canberra 36 Bankstown 13
Canberra continued to roll in the third, opening up their lead to 30 plus throughout. Burke and Dalgleish continued
to dominate and the result was well known early in the half. At the last change, it was the Nationals by 25.
Canberra 56 Bankstown 21
Both teams went through the motions in the fourth with both sides clearing their benches. Dalgleish was a deserving defensive player of the final, while Burke with a game high 19 points was named as MVP. Nationals deserving champions, running out eventual winners by 31.

Canberra 66 Bankstown 35
Defensive Player of Final - Michaela Dalgleish (179-G-83) Canberra Nationals
MVP of Final - Teagan Burke Canberra Nationals

Courtesy of: canberragunners.asn.au

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BULGARIA - Women

Montana signs Katya Kordova - by Eurobasket News
Montana announced very important signing. The team managed to agree terms with Katya Kordova (176-G/F-86) and she will play for them next season. Kordova was one of the best Dunav Ruse players last season. She had 15.7 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 1.7 apg for 22 games in NBL. Dunav reached Playoff Semifinals and Kordova was named Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League 1st Team - 11. Katya Kordova played for Beroe from 2008 until the last summer. In their first season together she exploded with 19.4 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 2.2 apg. For her performance Kordova was named Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Newcomer of the Year and also Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League 1st Team -09. Katya Kordova is a product of Lukoil Neftochimik. She was their member until 2008. They won the Bulgarian title together in 2006 and Cup in 2008.

Dunav 8806 adds Teodora Angelova - by Eurobasket News
Teodora Angelova (176-G-88) is a new member of Dunav 8806. The Bulgarian guard signed a deal for the next season. She is back to Hungary after three years abroad. Angelova started last season with Spanish Caceres and later moved to Huelva. With Huelva she had 6.5 ppg and 1.1 rpg for 15 games in LF2. She had slightly lower digits with Caceres in 14 games. Season 2008/09, Teodora Angelova collected 8.6 ppg and 1.6 apg for 18 games with GDKO Ibaizabal. In her first season abroad Angelova was a member of Garbaprom Bembibre. She had 3.2 ppg for them. In Bulgaria, Teodora Angelova played for CSKA Sophia and Septemvri. With CSKA she won Adriatic league title in 2007. They also were Bulgarian champions and Cup winners. Angelova played for U20 and U18 Bulgarian National Teams in the past.

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DENMARK - Women

Brittany Bowen Signs with Horsens Club of Denmark - by Greg
Former Butler guard/forward Brittany Bowen (177-G/F-88, college: Butler), who led the Bulldogs to a 20-14 record this past season, will continue her basketball career in Denmark in 2011-12. Bowen, who led the Bulldogs in scoring during her senior campaign at 15.8 points/game, signed a professional contract with the Horsens BC, Denmark. Horsens BC plays in the Dameligaen, the top women's professional league in Denmark.

Her coach in Denmark, Sonny Madsen , said 'We are very excited to have Brittany play for us. From what I have seen so far, I expect her to be a true all-rounder, who will be able to reinforce our defense and offense. We are looking forward to having Brittany on board.'

Bowen, who earned a degree in Public Relations in May, was named 2nd Team All-Horizon League last year, as well as 1st Team All-Horizon League Tournament after scoring 34 points in the League Championship against #9 ranked Wisconsin-Green Bay.

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GERMANY - Women

TSV 1880 Wasserburg bring Krystal Vaughn - by Eurobasket News
TSV 1880 Wasserburg bring Krystal Vaughn (185-G-86, agency: LBM Management, college: VCU) for the upcoming season. Krystal Vaughnn is an American player who came from Finland. In 2010 she started with San Antonio Silver Stars (WNBA), only pre-season. In 2010-2011 for Kotka Peli-Karhut (Finland-D1, starting five) she became the third top-scorer with 23.2ppg, 10.7rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 67.7%.
Last season Krystal Vaughnn became Eurobasket.com All-Finnish League Guard of the Year -11, Eurobasket.com All-Finnish League 1st Team -11, Eurobasket.com Finnish League All-Imports Team -11, Eurobasket.com Finnish League All-Defensive Team -11, Finnish 1st Division Regular Season Champion -11 and Finnish 1st Division Champion -11.
TSV 1880 Wasserburg also announced keeping Jessica Hootmann (190-C-85), Jezabel Ohanian (170-F-77), Tiffany Porter-Talbert (175-G-84, college: W.Kentucky), Jana Furkova (185-C/F-84) and Diana Adela Pop (168-G-71).

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HOLLAND - Women

Corinne Manuputty landed for STOL Grasshoppers - by Eurobasket News
Corinne Manuputty (173-G-85) landed for STOL Grasshoppers as the team announced another addition for the upcoming season. The Dutch Guard comes from Wereldtickets.nl BV Leiderdorp.
In 2005-2006 Corinne appeared for Grasshoppers Katwijk (Eredivisie) and in 2007-2008 moved to Woonbron/DAS Delft (Eredivisie, starting five). In 26 games she averaged 7.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 26.2%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 76.1%. In
2009-2010 for Woonbron/DAS Delft (Eredivisie) her stats read 2.6ppg, 1.5rpg. The last season Corinne Manuputty played for
Wereldtickets.nl BV Leiderdorp (Eredivisie, starting five) and after 22 games showed 12.5ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.3apg, 2.7spg, 2FGP: 34.4%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 67.3%.
Together with Wereldtickets.nl Corinne Manuputty became the Eredivisie champion. They outplayed Binnenland in Game Three 73-65 winning the title with perfect 3-0. Corinne scored 10 points in the final game.

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ICELAND - Women

Standings - Women

Express L. Standings

1. Fjolnir		0-0
2. Hamar		0-0
3. Haukar		0-0
4. Keflavik		0-0
5. KR		0-0
6. Njardvik		0-0
7. Snaefell		0-0
8. Valur		0-0

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LITHUANIA - Women

Real Canoe brings in Dovile Miliauskaite - by Eurobasket News
Dovile Miliauskaite (187-F-89) will continue her career in Spain. The Lithuanian forward signed a one-year deal with Real Canoe. Miliauskaite heads to Spain for her first professional season. She graduated few months ago at the Towson University. Miliauskaite had 7.6 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 1.6 spg for her school in 30 games as a senior. In 2009/10, she averaged 3.1 points and 3.4 rebounds. Dovile Miliauskaite was a member of the Lithuanian U20 and U19 National Teams in the past. Two years ago she participated at the European Championships U20 in Gdynia. For 8 games at this event Miliauskaite had 9.5 ppg and 6.3 rpg. He also played for Lithuania at European Championships U20 in Chieti.

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PUERTO RICO - Women

Stats Leaders - Superleague 25

Points Per Game

Monique MARTIN
  Guaynabo.
  (180-G-83)
  Avg: 39

1. Martin, Guaynabo.	39.0
2. Rockwell, Carolina	20.0
3. Bingham, San G.	19.5
4. Gissendanner, Junc.	19.0
5. Raven, Morovis M.	18.0
6. Williams, Morovis	18.0
7. Ross, San Juan W.	17.5
8. Reed, Juncos V.	17.0
9. Laur, Carolina G.	15.0
10. Rosche, Ponce L.	15.0

Rebounds Per Game

Monique MARTIN
  Guaynabo.
  (180-G-83)
  Avg: 15

1. Martin, Guaynabo.	15.0
2. Pineiro, Morovis M.	15.0
3. Blake, Carolina G.	14.0
4. Gissendanner, Junc.	14.0
5. Jelks, San German	12.5
6. Rosche, Ponce L.	12.0
7. Mahan, San Juan W.	11.5
8. Laur, Carolina G.	11.0
9. Bingham, San G.	10.5
10. Seals, Guaynabo	10.0

Assists Per Game

Yahimily CABRERA
  Juncos V.
  (--82)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Cabrera, Juncos V.	6.3
2. Flores, Carolina G.	6.0
3. Flagg, San Juan W.	4.5
4. Colon, San German	4.5
5. Bingham, San G.	4.5
6. Roman, Guaynabo M.	4.0
7. Martin, Guaynabo.	4.0
8. Figueroa, Morov.	3.0
9. Montalvo, San J.	3.0
10. Mangum, Carolina.	3.0

Steals Per Game

Angelina WILLIAMS
  Morovis M.
  (183-F-83)
  Avg: 8

1. Williams, Morovis	8.0
2. Flores, Carolina G.	4.0
3. Martin, Guaynabo.	4.0
4. Figueroa, Morov.	4.0
5. Cabrera, Juncos V.	3.7
6. Mahan, San Juan W.	3.5
7. Flagg, San Juan W.	3.5
8. Rivera, Aguas B.T.	3.0
9. Rosche, Ponce L.	3.0
10. Merchant, Ponce	3.0

Blocks Per Game

Dominic SEALS
  Guaynabo M.
  (188-F-87)
  Avg: 4

1. Seals, Guaynabo M.	4.0
2. Williams, Morovis	2.0
3. Pineiro, Morovis M.	2.0
4. Willoughy, Juncos	2.0
5. Raven, Morovis M.	2.0
6. de la Cruz, Caroli.	2.0
7. Martin, Guaynabo.	2.0
8. Villegas, Aguas B.	1.5
9. Banks, Aguas B.T.	1.0
10. Fuentes, Guaynab.	1.0

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SOUTH KOREA - Women

Korean team Quotes after final game - by JungHwan Seo
Choi Youn Ah (170-G-85)

'I felt very sorry to our bench players. Our young players played much time instead of them but we didn't get a ticket for Olympic next year. People said we did a good job. But this is nothing without Olympic qualification'

'We tried a pattern what we practiced at last time but I didn't make it. I had to shoot the ball because there was no time. Then I cried because I didn't make it and it reminded me of our players'

Lee Mi Sun (175-G-79)

'When we saw Yoon-ah, she was crying. She made all of us crying too. Our young guys did a very good job. There is nothing to do anymore for our veterans including me. So, I am going to quit from the Korean national team. This is the time to go'

Kim Kye Ryong

'I can't play anymore as good as young players. Everybody already knows that. It is time to retire with smile'

Sin Jung Ja (185-C-80)

'Our young players were crying because they really wanted to go to London. Our team put up a good fight, but unfortunately we weren't able to win. We're fine now'

Kim Danbi (180-F-90)

'We did not focus at last time. I can be satisfied our play because we tried our best. This is not over. It probably much difficult to get a ticket at the Olympic qualifying matches but we have to go.'

Coach Lim Dal Shik

'It was very close game. Rebound was always our problem against China. But we got 10 more today even our players are shorter than them. Defense was good too. But we did not focus at last time. This is our rebuilding process. Our young guns made me feel good. We will get better next time.'

'We don't have any enough support from our professional league and Korean basketball Association. If we could have good circumstances like Japan or China, the result would be totally different.'

'I was worried all the time that we didn't get an enough practice time. Even in this poor condition, our players did very well. I am very appreciate about that.'

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SPAIN - Women

Ros Casares add Miriam Foraste - by Eurobasket News
Ros Casares add Miriam Foraste (190-C-91) for the upcoming season. Together with Marles Balart (182-F/C-94) they arrived today to the team.
Miriam Foraste is a 1991-year-born Spanish center. At the European Championships U20 in Liepaja (Latvia) -10 (Silver) after 2 games she averaged 4.5ppg. This summer at the European Championships U20 in Serbia -11 she won Gold with her team. After 6 games her stats read 2.0ppg, 2.2rpg.
Marles Balart meanwhile signed with Ros Casares earlier. The Spanish giant signed a three-year deal with young prospect Marles Balart in June.
Marles Balart played for the Spanish U16 and U17 National Teams last summer. At the U16 EuroBasket in Greece she had 9.7 ppg, 12.1 rpg, 2.3 apg, 2.1 spg and 1.6 bpg for 9 games. For her performance, Balart was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U16 Best Center -10. Balart helped U16 Spain to win the Gold at the U16 EuroBasket 2009 in Naples. She had 4.3 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 1.4 spg for 9 games at this event.

Joy Cheek leaves Caja Rural Zamarat - by Eurobasket News
Joy Cheek (185-F-88, college: Duke) is no longer a member of Caja Rural Zamarat. The American power forward decided to leave the club and to return to the USA. Cheek signed a one-year deal with Caja Rural Zamarat last month, but it seems she will not play in Spain this season. Joy Cheek joined Caja Rural from the WNBA team Washington Mystics. Cheek signed with Washington in June, but she had very limited playing time. She started the season with Indiana Fever averaging 2.5 points. Joy Cheek spent last season with the Polish team Super-Pol Leszno. She had 13.3 ppg and 7.8 rpg for 28 games in PLKK. Caja Rural Zamarat already started their search for the new power forward. The team had high expectations from Joy Cheek, but now they have to look for replacement.

Grupo Marsol signs deal with Rocio Bartomeu - by Eurobasket News
Grupo Marsol continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Spanish player Rocio Bartomeu (87). She signed a one-year deal with Grupo Marsol. Most recently, Bartomeu played for Conquero Huelva. In 2009/10 season she had 5.8 ppg and 1.1 rpg for 28 games in LF2. She played for the same team in 2008/109. At that time Bartomeu collected 7.1 pg and 1.7 rpg for 33 games. They also competed in LF2.
Before Rocio Bartomeu, Grupo Marsol signed a deal with with Bulgarian forward Radostina Dimitrova (185-F-85). The 26-year-old Dimitrova spent last season with Levski Sophia. She had 14.3 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 2.3 apg and 2 spg for them in 26 NBL games. She helped Levski reach NBL Finals. For her performance Eurobasket awarded Dimitrova with All-Bulgarian League Honorable Mention -11. Radostina Dimitrova is not a new face in Spain. She spent 2009/10 season with CD Irlandesas Leioa. For 51 games in LF2 she had 7.8 ppg and 2.3 rpg. Before that, Radistinova was a member of Burgos and Viaonetti Vinaroz. They also competed in LF2. Radostina Dimitrova won the Bulgarian league title and National Cup with CSKA Sofia in 2007. They also were Adriatic league champions that season.

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WNBA - Women

Sunday's games review - by Eurobasket News
Seattle S. - L.Angeles S. 65-63
Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) hit two free throws with 1.6 seconds left in the game to snap a tie, and the Seattle Storm hung on to beat the Los Angeles Sparks on Sunday night, 65-63. Bird finished with 12 points and Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) and Tanisha Wright led Seattle (17-12) with 14 points apiece. Candace Parker scored 19 points to lead Los Angeles (12-17) and made it a double-double with 14 rebounds. Techia Penicheiro also had a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Wright, trying to shoot through traffic with the clock winding down, had her shot blocked. But the loose ball came out to Bird at the left of the lane, and she was fouled by Kristi Toliver to earn a trip to the line. Bird swished both shots to clinch Seattle's fourth straight victory. The Sparks had a last-second shot to tie the game, but Tina Thompson's try from the left of the lane bounced off the rim at the buzzer. Seattle has beaten the Sparks in nine of their last 10 meetings. The defending champion Storm reduced their magic number to one to qualify for the WNBA playoffs. Los Angeles fell two games behind San Antonio for the fourth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference with five games left. *Courtesy of www.nwcn.com

Tulsa S. - Connecticut S. 83-72
Sheryl Swoopes (6'0''-F/G-71, college: Texas Tech) scored 22 points to help the Tulsa beat the Connecticut Sun 83-72 Sunday for the Shock's second straight win following a record 22-game losing streak. Ivory Latta (5'6''-G-84, college: N.Carolina) had 19 points and Tiffany Jackson added 16 points and 12 rebounds for her eighth double-double of the season as the Shock (3-25) won consecutive games for just the second time since moving to Tulsa before last season. Tina Charles had 21 points and 10 rebounds to lead Connecticut (18-11). Renee Montgomery added 12 points. The Shock, coming off a 77-75 win at Los Angeles on Friday night, last won consecutive games on May 29 and June 4 last year. Tulsa rallied from 15 points down early in the third period, using a 21-9 run over the final 6:48 to tie the score at 59-all. *Courtesy of www.kxnet.com

Washington M. - Phoenix M. 79-86
Candice Dupree (6'2''-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) scored a season-high 27 points and Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) finished with 21 points as the Phoenix Mercury snapped a two-game losing streak with an 86-79 win over the Washington Mystics on Sunday. The Mercury (16-12) scored the game's first points, led 11-1 less than 3 minutes in, and by 16 points in the first quarter. Phoenix, which led 43-34 at halftime, opened the second half with a 13-0 run to extend the advantage to 22 points. Matee Ajavon's 3-pointer with 13.8 seconds remaining capped a 16-4 run over the final 4 minutes to pull the Mystics to 84-79, but Taurasi followed with two free throws. Crystal Langhorne had 27 points and 12 rebounds for the Mystics (5-23), who have lost eighth straight matching the third-longest streak in franchise history. *Courtesy of www.kxnet.com

Chicago S. - New York L. 74-73
Epiphanny Prince (5'9''-G-88, college: Rutgers) hit a 3-pointer with 31 seconds remaining to give the Chicago Sky a 74-73 victory over the New York Liberty on Sunday. Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) and Erin Thorn scored 17 points each to lead the Sky (14-15), and Prince finished with 10 points. Chicago moved 1 1/2 games behind Atlanta for the fourth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Plenette Pierson scored 19 points, Nicole Powell had 15 and Cappie Pondexter 14 for the Liberty (16-13). Kia Vaughn added 12 points. New York, two games behind second-place Connecticut in the East, had its lead over Atlanta cut to one-half game. After opening a 70-60 lead, the Sky went scoreless for 5:34 as the Liberty scored 11 consecutive points to take a 71-70 lead on Essence Carson's reverse layup. Tamera Young's free throw tied the score and Pondexter hit a jumper with 50 seconds to play to put New York up 73-71. After Prince put the Sky ahead, Pondexter missed a 3 with 1 second left. *Courtesy of www.newser.com

S.Antonio SS - Minnesota L. 61-72
Usually at this stage of the WNBA season, teams are essentially down to just tying up the loose ends. They're jockeying for playoff positioning and figuring out which team holds the upper hand if tiebreakers come into the equation. The Silver Stars? After Sunday's 72-61 loss to Minnesota before a crowd of 7,924 at the AT&T Center, they're simply trying to understand what has become of them. A team that took the league by storm, roaring to a franchise-best 7-1 start, is now pondering whether it can retain its grip on the Western Conference's final postseason spot. The Silver Stars (13-15), who have lost six in a row - their longest skid since 2006 - are 1 1/2 games ahead of Los Angeles for fourth place in the West. 'We're not out of it by any stretch,' Silver Stars center Ruth Riley said. 'But you want to, obviously, be playing well to get into the playoffs, and then playing well when you get there. 'Everyone still seems pretty confident in their ability. We've just got to put it all together.'' A postgame team meeting, the Silver Stars are hoping, will jump-start their bid to turn things around. 'We've been through a rough patch, no doubt,' said Silver Stars guard Becky Hammon, who had nine points on 1-of-12 shooting and has scored in double figures just once in the last five games. 'I just think you have to put your mind to overcome those things, find a little more discipline, and dig a little deeper.'' Lately, the Silver Stars have only been digging themselves into a hole. They've struggled with their shooting. They've struggled rebounding. They've had too many defensive lapses. That scrit played itself out again on Sunday. Minnesota (23-6), behind the scoring of Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) and Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut) and a dominating rebounding advantage, clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. Augustus had 20 points, and Moore added 19 points and 12 rebounds. Rebekkah Brunson added 14 rebounds as the Lynx had a 50-27 edge on the boards. 'This team has obviously gone through tough times as a franchise, and for us to go from second to worst during last year, to first in the West this year, is something we are definitely proud of,' Minnesota coach Cheryl Reeve said after her team defeated the Silver Stars for the sixth straight time and fourth this season. 'We have one more goal in the regular season, and then there's the big prize.'' Unlike Minnesota, the Silver Stars' goal is more modest at this juncture - make the playoffs. Things looked promising when they went into halftime trailing just 42-40. Roneeka Hodges scored all of her team-high 12 points in just 10 minutes off the bench, including hitting four 3-pointers. Jia Perkins and Tully Bevilaqua each had 10 points off the bench. No Silver Stars starter scored in double figures. 'I think it was just about an opportunity to get out there and help the team in any way I can,' said Hodges, who had played more than 10 minutes just once in the previous 13 games. *Courtesy of www.mysanantonio.com

Standings

WNBA Standings

Eastern
1. Indiana F.		19-9
2. Connecticut S.		18-11
3. New York L.		16-13
4. Atlanta D.		15-13
5. Chicago S.		14-15
6. Washington M.		5-23
Western
1. Minnesota L.		23-6
2. Seattle S.		17-12
3. Phoenix M.		16-12
4. S.Antonio SS		13-15
5. L.Angeles S.		12-17
6. Tulsa S.		3-25

Lynx secure first Western Conference regular season title in franchise history - by Eurobasket News
With their win tonight over San Antonio, the Minnesota Lynx clinched the franchise's first Western Conference regular season title. The win secures home court advantage through the Western Conference Playoffs and improves the Lynx' league-best record to 23-6, putting them 3.5 games up on Indiana (19-9) for home court advantage through the entire 2011 WNBA Playoffs.

The Lynx have set new single-season franchise records for wins (23), along with home (12) and road victories (11) this season. With five games remaining on its regular-season schedule, Minnesota has a chance to tie the single-season league record for victories (28), accomplished twice by the Los Angeles Sparks (2000 - 28-4; 2001 - 28-4) and last year by the Seattle Storm (28-6). Behind the Lynx in the Western Conference standings are Seattle (16-12), Phoenix (15-12), San Antonio (13-15), Los Angeles (12-16) and Tulsa (2-25 - eliminated from playoff contention).

Minnesota has played two home playoff games in its history, including a 74-72 win on Aug. 28, 2003 over the number one seed and eventual WNBA Champion Los Angeles Sparks in the Lynx' first home playoff game in franchise history.

The 2011 WNBA Playoffs dates will be announced at a later date.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com