EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/7/2011

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ARMENIA   


U16: Armenia stepped closer to the 5th place in Division B - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands U16-Armenia U16 71:85

Armenia stepped closer to the 5th place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team edged the Dutch side 85:71 in the Classification Round for 5-8 places. Both teams will play their final games tomorrow.
The Dutch team controlled the first period and Jaron Dijkhuizen (195-F-95) scored for 10:2. Rosenmuller brought 16:12 in the start of the second period and Jaron Dijkhuizen added two for 22:14. Armenia meanwhile won the second frame and took 33:31 halftime advantage. The third quarter also belonged to the winning side that improved to 58:54 at the end of it. Another 27-17 in the last quarter brought the final result in the game.
Arkadiy Mkrtychyan (95) stepped up with 22 points and Sergei Pogosyan (95) netted 21. Andrey Konstantinov (95) followed them with 14, while Vladimir Radivoevich (95) nailed 11 points. Bas Veenstra (204-F-95) collected 17 points and 10 rebounds in defeat as Holladn will play for 7-8 places. Jaron Dijkhuizen notched 16, while Willem Brandwijk (204-F-95) posted 11.

Netherlands U16: Bas Veenstra 17+10 rebs, Jaron Dijkhuizen 16, Willem Brandwijk 11
Armenia U16: Arkadiy Mkrtychyan 22, Sergei Pogosyan 21, Andrey Konstantinov 14, Vladimir Radivoevich 11


*****************************************************
  AUSTRIA   


Romania University Game won the friendly game over Austria - by Eurobasket News
Austria-Romania University Game 67:72

Romania University Game won the friendly game over Austria in Cyprus. The team will play two more games against Cyprus before leaving for the World University Games. Austria will meet Cyprus on Saturday.
Austria opened the game with 19:18 but could not keep the score for good. Romania bounced back with 20-13 in the second period and enjoyed 38:33 at the halftime. The teams exchanged the victories in the second half as Romania had 5-point win at the end.
Andrei Mandache (190-G-87, agency: Global Sports Plaza) top-scored for the winners with 22 points to lead the charge. Vlad Moldoveanu (205-F-88, agency: Interperformances, college: American) nailed 16, while Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency: Interperformances) netted 14. Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) and Schreiner posted 18 points in the losing effort, while Richard Poiger (201-F-87) had 9. Davor Lamesic (205-F-83, agency: Interperformances) nailed 8, whilst Anton Maresch (192-G-91) produced 6.

Austria: Rasid Mahalbasic 18, Schreiner 18, Richard Poiger 9, Davor Lamesic 8, Anton Maresch 6
Romania: Andrei Mandache 22, Vlad Moldoveanu 16, Titus Nicoara 14


U16: Austria and Slovak Republic finish European Championship 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Austria U16-Slovak Republic U16 50:47

Austria and Slovak Republic finish European Championship 2011 in Division B as both teams ended up on the last spots in Strumica. Austria needed 50:47 in the last game to finish on the 21st spot. Slovak Republic lost the sixth game and finished on the last position.
The squads nailed 15 points each in the opening frame, but Austria pushed the tempo in the second one and won 15-6. Hlivak closed the half at 30:21 for the Austrian side and Ogunsipe increased to 35:24. Slovak Republic however erupted with an 11-0 run for 35:35 and won the period 22-14. Boris Belavy (197-F-95) tied the game at 47:47 and Florian Pelc (168-PG-95) made two free throws for 2-point lead with 2 minutes to go. The later made another one to set up the final score in the game.
Georg Wolf (186-G-95) top-scored for the winners with 12 points, while Florian Pelc and Marko Soldo (190-G-95) netted 8 each. Matej Baluch (192-F-95) ended up with 14 points in defeat, whilst Boris Belavy collected 12 points and 10 boards.

Austria U16: Georg Wolf 12, Florian Pelc 8, Marko Soldo 8
Slovak Republic U16: Matej Baluch 14, Boris Belavy 12+10 rebs



*****************************************************
  BAHRAIN   


Bahrain may appeal to Fiba Asia on GCC juniors clash - by Patrick Salomon
BAHRAIN are planning to file an appeal to Fiba Asia in the hopes of overturning a controversial ruling that cost them the title in the 13th GCC Junior Basketball Championship, which concluded July 29 in Jeddah.

The Bahrainis were robbed of the under-19 Gulf crown after the tournament committee decided to officially cancel their game against Kuwait, played on July 28, which was abandoned after a brawl had broken out between the two sides.

That proved costly for Bahrain, who were undefeated in their four other games of the competition. Saudi Arabia were thus crowned champions after finishing with more points, having played one game more.

Bahrain Basketball Association (BBA) secretary general Abdulelah Abdulghaffar said that they plan on taking the case to Fiba Asia, which is the governing body of the continental game under the International Basketball Federation (Fiba).

We are planning on appealing to Fiba Asia against the ruling, but first we will go to the Bahrain Olympic Committee and see if they can settle the issue at the GCC level, Abdulghaffar said. If our appeal is denied, we will go to Fiba Asia.

We are now in the process of gathering the reports of the tournament committee, the referees of the game and from our delegation head. Once we have collected this material, we will proceed with our plans.

We plan to appeal to Fiba Asia because nowhere on the Fiba rulebook does it say that an entire game must be cancelled after a fight, especially with only two minutes remaining. We already highlighted this in an appeal to the tournament committee, but it was denied, so now we will go one step higher.

Bahrain were leading 62-52 with just two minutes and 17 seconds remaining in the contest when a Kuwaiti player picked a fight with one of the Bahrain team members. In a bout of rage, the Kuwaiti took off his shoe in an apparent attempt to insult his rival or to use it as a weapon.

Chaos ensued as other players from both teams got involved, chasing each other up and down the court and punching and kicking their rivals until security officers managed to break the teams apart.

The Kuwaitis stormed off the playing court, and later that same night the tournament committee decided not to count the game all together to either teams final standings. That meant Bahrain were deprived of two points for a victory, and ended the competition with eight markers from four games. Saudi, who the Bahrainis defeated 72-60, were champions with nine points from five contests.

Bahrain were made to settle for the silver medals.

Meanwhile, a video of the brawl on popular video-sharing website YouTube has grown rapidly in popularity since it was first uploaded on July 30. As of early Wednesday evening, the video has garnered over 125,000 hits from users all over the world.

The six-minute video has even caught the attention of a number of US-based sports websites, including a Washington Post blog, which described the altercation as one of the wildest on-court brawls youll ever see.

Bahrain to camp in Manila ahead of Fiba Asia tourney - by Patrick Salomon
BAHRAINS senior mens national basketball team will be holding a training camp in Manila next month in preparation for the upcoming Fiba Asia Championship.

This was confirmed by Bahrain Basketball Association secretary general Abdulelah Abdulghaffar.

The continental tournament, which features the top 16 Asian nations in basketball, will be held from September 15 to 25 in Wuhan, Hubei, China. Bahrain and the Philippines have been drawn in the same preliminary round group.

Prior to the competition, Bahrains camp at the Philippine capital will begin either from September 1 or 2. It will mark the final lead-up to the high-profile International Basketball Federation (Fiba) event. The Bahrainis then fly to Wuhan from Manila on September 13.

The national team have already begun their preparations locally for the championship at Isa Town Club with a group of 26 players. However, due to the unavailability of the Zain Bahrain Basketball Arena in Um Al Hassam which is currently undergoing maintenance work, the squad will have to look for another practice venue from Tuesday onwards.

National basketball head coach Erik Rashad from the US is expected to trim the roster down to 14 for the Philippine camp. The Fiba Asia Championship will be Rashads first major competition with the senior mens team. He recently guided the kingdoms junior national team to the silver medals, despite finishing with an unbeaten record, in the controversy-hit 13th GCC Junior Basketball Championship that concluded in Jeddah in the last week of July.

Next months Fiba Asia tiff will also set to act as the qualifying competition for the 2012 London Olympic Games. The champions will earn a direct berth to the Olympics, whereas the silver and bronze-medallists will make it through to the Fiba Olympic qualifying tournament.

The tournaments 16 participating squads have been divided into four groups for the preliminaries.

Bahrain have been drawn in a tough group D alongside powerhouses China and the Philippines, and Gulf neighbours the UAE. Group 'A' features Lebanon, Malaysia, South Korea and India; group 'B' comprises Qatar, Chinese Taipei, defending Asian champions Iran and a yet-to-be-determined Middle Asia nation; while group 'C' consists of Japan, Indonesia, Syria and Jordan.

The Bahrainis have a realistic chance of qualifying for the second round of the tournament, as the top three teams from each preliminary group make it through to round two, which will feature two new groups composed of six teams apiece.

According to Bahrain national team head coach Erik Rashad, their games against China and the Philippines will be 'tremendous challenges', but the tie with the Emiratis is 'very winnable'.

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


U16: Late baskets by Lecomte brought the victory for Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U16-Finalnd U16 53:49

Belgium overcame Finland in the Classification Round for 9-12 places at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Belgium needed a defensive 53:49 win to play tomorrow for the 9th place. The Scandinavian team meanwhile will play for the 11th place in Strumica.
Both sides exchanged the leads several times in the opening period and Emmanuel Lecomte (175-G-95) closed it at 13:14. Finland pushed the tempo in the second frame and Ozan Odabasi (196-C-95) brought 28:19 at the halftime. Moreover Hopkins scored for 39:25, but it was not enough for the victory. Emmanuel Lecomte reduced to 48:42 with 5 minutes to go and Emmanuel Lecomte closed the run at 50:48. Finland scored only 6 points in the last period and failed to win the game. Late baskets by Emmanuel Lecomte brought the victory for Belgium.
Emmanuel Lecomte paced all the winners with 19 points and Mathijs Gijbels (200-F-95) nailed 6. Ozan Odabasi delivered 19 points in defeat and Emir Sulejmanovic (203-C/F-95) posted 8.

Belgium U16: Emmanuel Lecomte 19, Mathijs Gijbels 6
Finland U16: Ozan Odabasi 19, Emir Sulejmanovic 8


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


Bosnia opened Adecco Cup EX-YU with the win over F.Y.R. of Macedonia - by Eurobasket News
F.Y.R. of Macedonia NT- Bosnia and Herzegovina NT 50:55

Bosnia opened Adecco Cup EX-YU with the win over F.Y.R. of Macedonia in Ljubljana.
Pero Antic opened the game for his team, while Elmedin Kikanovic brought the first points for the winners. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) closed the period from the perimeter for 14:10 at the end of the first period. Vojdan Stojanovski (194-G-87) cut it to 19:18, but Bosnia and Herzegovina needed a 10-0 run for 29:19. Vlado Ilievski later sent the teams to the lockers at 29:23 at the halftime. The third quarter also belonged to Bosnia that improved to 10 more points after 18-8 in the frame. F.Y.R. of Macedonia responded with 19-8 in the last frame but brought the game to 55:50 on the board.
Mirza Teletovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 19 points for the winners and Nihad Djedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) added 13. Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) notched 8 and Henry Domercant posted 7. Kiril Nikolovski (210-C-88) delivered 13 points in defeat and Vojdan Stojanovski scored 10.

F.Y.R. of Macedonia NT: Kiril Nikolovski 13, Vojdan Stojanovski 10
Bosnia and Herzegovina NT: Mirza Teletovic 19, Nihad Djedovic 13, Aleksej Nesovic 8, Henry Domercant 7


U16: Slovenia joined England for Division A next year - by Eurobasket News
Bosnia and Herzegovina U16-Slovenia U16 53:74

Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia struggled for the second ticket to Division A in 2012. Slovenia won the game 74:53 and advanced to the Final game.
Both teams knew the importance of the game and were noticed that England needed overtime to beat Israel in another Semifinal. Slovenia started the game with 19:13 after the first period and produced the same result in the second quarter. Nejc Zupan (203-PG-96) scored for 47:37 and Ritlop increased to 54:41. Nejc Zupan also closed the third period at 59:41 when it became clear about the winner. Adi Zahiragic (185-PG-95) and Matic Rebec (179-PG-95) exchanged for 64:43. Zatezic nailed three for 70:48, while Maslac brought 70:50 on the board. Slovenia won the last period 15-12 and advanced to the Final.
Nejc Zupan led the way with 18 points and Nicolic nailed 17. Matic Rebec posted 13, while Luka Kokol (191-G-95) notched 10. Adi Zahiragic ended up with 16 points in defeat and Nedim Buza (201-F-95) posted 9.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Adi Zahiragic 16, Nedim Buza 9
Slovenia U16: Nejc Zupan 18, Nicolic 17, Matic Rebec 13, Luka Kokol 10


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  BRAZIL   


Palmeiras start to build their roster - by Paulo Freire
The Palmeiras basketball team is looking forward to play the Paulista State Champioship of the second division, A2. The new head coach of the team is Joao Padola.

To new roster is been build, and the news are:

The guard Douglas Viegas (197-G/F-79, agency: Agency No 10, college: Wagner) is the new signing of Palmeiras, along Rodrigo Martins (190-F-81), Lucas Costa (203-C/F-80) and Gilson de Jesus (195-F/G-79, college: Kansas St.).

Bringing back to the roster of Palmeiras for the second time is Mudo dos Santos (194-F-77) and Gustavo Rocha (193-G-84).

Douglas Viegas returns to a team from Sao Paulo where he start playing basketball.
'Happily, this is exactly the word that describes what I'm feeling to be back where it all began! I intend to stay here until the end of my career! I love the Palmeiras, and this club deserves to have a team of high level, not only again, but forever! ' Said Douglas Viegas.


Lajeado is back with their professional team - by Paulo Freire
It was officially announced the return of the Lajeado Univates/Bira team to the south competitions, been first at the Gaucho State Championship basketball tournament. The presentation addressed to the press, sponsors and supporters of the project, was made by the managers and the staff coach of the Athletic Club in Ubirajara at Lajeado city (RS) this week.

The group of athletes is still in training. Already confirmed are the forward Leandro Buboltz (198-F-83), SF Christian Panizza (191-F-75), Gustavo Lawisch (193-F/C-85) and the center Manuil De Souza (212-C-79).

'We are thinking of setting up the roster to reaches the very top place at the end of each competition,' said team's coach, Antonio Krebs , more knwoing as Pitu, who is very recognized in the south state basketball scene. He said the group is trying to adapt in the best way. 'My attitude is to give as much as possible in court,' he said.

Campo Mourao sign Schneider and Omar - by Paulo Freire
After a season playing professional basketball in the Joinville team, Guilherme Schneider (192-G-86) returns to wear the shirt of Campo Maurao.
The gaucho of 25 years old, come this weekend to join the team at the competitions in the second half of 2011. 'I want to help the basketball of Campo Maurao to realize their dream of playing a National League. I promise a lot of effort to achieve this goal, 'said the athlete.
Schneider had a bright passage in Campo Maurao. His performances earned him a call for the Brazilian University NT, the award athletic highlight of 2009 of Parana State and the invitation to play the National League in Joinville. Campo Maurao is given this successful track record, to have now a pretty high expectation of good results in the growing season.

Another enhancement
The wing-pivot Omar Bertolin (203-F/C-85), 2m06 tall, is another reinforcement that comes next week to strengthen the team for the second half of 2011. The athlete who had played for teams like Sorocaba, Macae, Paraiso and Olympico and Vila Velha, arrives with a reputation for being a good shotter, very strong-willed and dedicated in training.

In another hand the team of Campo Mourao is losing forward Thiago Mathias (206-F-89, college: N.Mexico JC) to America de Sao Jose do Rio Preto team. The player want to playe the Paulista State Tournament therefore ask to be release and be able to sign a new contract with the team from Rio Preto city.


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  BULGARIA   


Adam Hrycaniuk leads Poland over Bulgaria in Nicosia - by Eurobasket News
Poland NT-Bulgaria NT 64:55

Adam Hrycaniuk (208-C-84, college: Cincinnati) leads the National team of Poland over Bulgaria in Nicosia in Day 2 of the International Tournament. Both teams started the second day, while Poland needed 64:55 win for 1-1 record. Bulgaria suffered the second loss but stayed tough in the first half.
Bulgaria started better and took 14:13 lead after the first period. The second quarter remained the teams close and only 16-13 in it gave Poland 29:27 halftime advantage. In the third quarter Poland added 15-14 and enjoyed 3 point deficit at the end of the third period. Another 20-14 in the last stanza brought the necessary victory for Poland.
Adam Hrycaniuk paced all the winners with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) nailed 13. Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) posted 12 and Adam Waczynski (199-F-89, agency: Limelight Hoops) scored 8. Dejan Ivanov (205-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) ended up with 14 points in the losing effort and Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky) added 11.
Bulgaria will open Day 3 in the game against Israel. Poland meanwhile will take on Italy in the last game of the competition.

Poland NT: Adam Hrycaniuk 20+11 rebs, Dardan Berisha 13, Lukasz Koszarek 12 Adam Waczynski 8
Bulgaria NT: Dejan Ivanov 14, Filip Videnov 11


U16: Bulgaria beat Montenegro, both head to Division B - by Eurobasket News
Bulgaria U16 - Montenegro U16 98:64

Bulgaria snapped seven-game losing skid at U16 European Championship. They opened win count cruising past Montenegro. Aleksandar Vezenkov (204-F-95) came up with impressive 40 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists to lead the charge. Montenegro fell at 1-4 record as both teams are now known to fall to Division B next year.
Bulgaria and Montenegro stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Bulgaria eked out a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. Next two periods turned disastrous for Montenegro. Led by Aleksandar Vezenkov Bulgaria eased to a 43:30 halftime lead. Bulgaria unleashed 30 points in the third quarter to establish an insurmountable 32-point lead with one quarter remaining. Bulgaria never slowed down marching to the victory at the end. Vassil Stoimenov (198-F-95) tallied 15 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists in the win. Luka Savic (199-F-95) answered with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Montenegro. Luka Djurovic (199-F-95) provided 12 points in defeat.

Bulgaria U16: Aleksandar Vezenkov 40+10 boards, Vassil Stoimenov 15, Anguel Peychinov (196-F-95) 11
Montenegro U16: Luka Savic 16, Luka Djurovic 12


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  CENTROBASKET U17   


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. P.Rico3-0
2. US Virg.Isl2-1
3. Dominican R.1-2
4. British Vi.0-3
Group B
1. Mexico3-0
2. Bahamas2-1
3. Belize1-2
4. Panama0-3


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Jose ESTRADA
  (--94)
  Avg: 38
 1. Estrada, MEX38.0 
 2. Middleton, BIZ21.7 
 3. Daly, BIZ19.7 
 4. Bethel, BAH18.0 
 5. Rivas, PAN16.0 
 6. Nairn, BAH16.0 
 7. Rolle, BAH15.7 
 8. Francis, DOM15.7 
 9. Curet, PUR15.0 
 10. White, BIZ14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight COLEBY
  (--94)
  Avg: 14.7
 1. Coleby, BAH14.7 
 2. Daly, BIZ12.7 
 3. White, BIZ11.7 
 4. Miller, BAH11.0 
 5. Rivas, PAN9.3 
 6. Weaver, ISV9.0 
 7. Gonzalez, DOM8.5 
 8. Estrada, MEX8.3 
 9. Catarino, MEX8.3 
 10. Francis, DOM8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Mickahil ROLLE
  (--95)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Rolle, BAH7.3 
 2. Nairn, BAH6.3 
 3. Moses, BIZ6.0 
 4. Nunez Castil., DOM5.0 
 5. Ortiz, PUR4.7 
 6. Curet, PUR4.3 
 7. Moquete, DOM4.0 
 8. Lopez, BIZ4.0 
 9. Ramirez, MEX3.7 
 10. Dicent, DOM3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Mickahil ROLLE
  (--95)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Rolle, BAH5.7 
 2. Curet, PUR4.7 
 3. Garraway, IVB4.3 
 4. Estrada, MEX4.0 
 5. Curet, PUR4.0 
 6. Middleton, BIZ4.0 
 7. Miller, BAH3.0 
 8. Ortiz, PUR2.7 
 9. Dicent, DOM2.7 
 10. Baptist, BIZ2.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Pablo RIVAS
  (--95)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. Rivas, PAN4.3 
 2. Coleby, BAH3.7 
 3. Miller, BAH2.7 
 4. Santos, ISV1.7 
 5. Daly, BIZ1.7 
 6. Georges, IVB1.7 
 7. Lopez, PUR1.5 
 8. Santos, DOM1.3 
 9. Aguilera, MEX1.3 
 10. Baptist, BIZ1.0 


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  CHINA   


Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. Changan Group 12-6 
 2. Whampoa 12-6 
 3. Sichuan 11-7 
 4. Jiangsu 11-7 
 5. Ningxia Hanas 9-9 
 6. ShenYang 9-9 
 7. Guangzhou FM 8-10 
 8. Hebei 8-10 
 9. Heilongjiang 7-11 
 10. Hangzhou 3-15 


NBL: Changan Group wins the Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in NBL just ended.

Changan Group wins the Regular Season although they lost the last game. Visitors were defeated by Jiangsu 86-82. It ended at the same time the nine-game winning streak of Changan Group. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-10. But Changan Group won second period 23-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Jiangsu made 8 blocks. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Vincent Hunter (208-84, college: Arkansas) had a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Justin Johnson (198-86, college: Iowa) chipped in 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was center Darnell Cox (211-85, college: Miss.Valley St., agency: Court Side) with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 22 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Jiangsu (11-7) moved-up to third place, which they share with Sichuan. Changan Group at the other side still keeps top position with six games lost. They share it with Whampoa. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
ShenYang (#5) was upset in by eighth ranked Hebei 129-121. American forward Christopher Lawson (193-83, college: Houston) notched a double-double by scoring 49 points (!!!), 11 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the effort and Yiding Li supported him with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Even 29 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) by American guard Corey Allmond (188-88, college: Howard Col. (TX)) did not help to save the game for ShenYang. Hebei (8-10) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Guangzhou FM. ShenYang lost eighth consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with nine games lost. They share it with Ningxia Hanas. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
The game in supposed to be also quite interesting.Guangzhou FM (8-10) played at the court of seventh ranked Ningxia Hanas (9-9). Ningxia Hanas smashed Guangzhou FM 114-90 on Saturday. The best player for the winners was Ndudi Ebi who had a double-double by scoring 21 points, 12 rebounds and 4 blocks. At the other side the best for losing team was Jartavious Henderson who recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points and 16 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Ningxia Hanas moved-up to fifth place, which they share with ShenYang. Loser Guangzhou FM dropped to the seventh position with ten games lost. They share it with Hebei. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

In the last two games of round 18 Sichuan won against Hangzhou on the opponent's court 110-98. Whampoa managed to outperform Heilongjiang in a home game 95-90.

Jiangsu - Changan Group 86-82

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of top-ranked Changan Group (12-6) on the court of fourth ranked Jiangsu on Saturday night. Visitors were defeated by Jiangsu 86-82. It ended at the same time the nine-game winning streak of Changan Group. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-10. But Changan Group won second period 23-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Jiangsu made 8 blocks. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Vincent Hunter (208-84, college: Arkansas) had a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Justin Johnson (198-86, college: Iowa) chipped in 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was center Darnell Cox (211-85, college: Miss.Valley St., agency: Court Side) with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 22 rebounds and guard Nick Stallings (190-83, college: Centenary) scored 9 points and 8 rebounds. Five Jiangsu and four Changan Group players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Jiangsu (11-7) moved-up to third place, which they share with Sichuan. Changan Group at the other side still keeps top position with six games lost. They share it with Whampoa. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Jiangsu: H.Vincent 16+10reb+3ast, F.Xin 15+4reb+2ast, J.Justin 14+8reb+5ast, N.QingQing 13+4reb+2ast, F.Hui 11+6reb, W.YanQing 8+4reb
Changan Group: C.Darnell 23+22reb, J.JunQi 12+2reb, S.Jian 11+3reb, S.Lei 11+2reb+2ast, S.Nick 9+8reb+2ast, L.Peng 8+4reb
gschID: 129397


Hangzhou - Sichuan 98-110

Very expected game when 10th ranked Hangzhou (3-15) was defeated at home by fourth ranked Sichuan (11-7) 110-98 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Sichuan. Hangzhou managed to win fourth quarter 26-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Hangzhou 50-34 including 20 on the offensive glass. The best player for the winners was center ZhaoLei Yang (203-90) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds. American guard T.J. Bannister (180-84, college: Liberty) chipped in 19 points and 5 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Austen Powers (203-87, college: Seattle, agency: Tank Sports) who recorded a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds and forward Wei Liu (200-83) added 15 points respectively. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Sichuan have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Jiangsu. Hangzhou lost fifth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 15 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Sichuan: B.T.J. 19+1reb+5ast, Y.ZhaoLei 15+11reb, C.Ma 15+4reb+1ast, J.QiZhen 12+3reb+2ast, H.XiaoBin 11+4reb, M.Alexander 10+8reb+1ast
Hangzhou: P.Austen 22+12reb+1ast, Z.Tian-bao 17+4reb, L.Wei 15+4reb+2ast, Y.Wang 14+1ast, Y.Carrian 14+4reb+2ast, J.Jin 4
gschID: 129394


Ningxia Hanas - Guangzhou FM 114-90

The game in supposed to be also quite interesting. Guangzhou FM (8-10) played at the court of seventh ranked Ningxia Hanas (9-9). Ningxia Hanas smashed Guangzhou FM 114-90 on Saturday. The game without a history. Ningxia Hanas led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Strangely Guangzhou FM outrebounded Ningxia Hanas 47-32 including a 20-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Ningxia Hanas especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.6 percentage. The best player for the winners was Nigerian forward Ndudi Ebi (206-84, college: Arizona) who had a double-double by scoring 21 points, 12 rebounds and 4 blocks. American forward Ramon Harris (201-88, college: Kentucky) chipped in 13 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Jartavious Henderson (203-87, college: Memphis) who recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points and 16 rebounds and guard TianGang Shao (190-89) added 18 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Ningxia Hanas moved-up to fifth place, which they share with ShenYang. Loser Guangzhou FM dropped to the seventh position with ten games lost. They share it with Hebei. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Ningxia Hanas: E.Ndudi 21+12reb+1ast, W.Sze 16, D.Junjiang 15+1reb, X.Zhongjie 15+3reb, H.Ramon 13+7reb+5ast, Y.Kaifu 13+3reb+5ast
Guangzhou FM: S.TianGang 18+6reb+3ast, L.Dapeng 14+1reb+3ast, Z.XiaoMing 12+2reb+3ast, H.Jartavious 12+16reb+1ast, S.Sani 10+10reb+1ast, Z.HongWei 8+2reb
gschID: 129395


Whampoa - Heilongjiang 95-90

Very predictable result when second ranked Whampoa (12-6) defeated at home 9th ranked Heilongjiang (7-11) 95-90 on Saturday. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts trailed by 10 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 5 points. Whampoa forced 27 Heilongjiang turnovers and had a 20-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American forward Alan Wiggins (206-85, college: USF) who had a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 20 rebounds. Forward Jing Wang (197-78) chipped in 18 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Nigerian center Benson Egemonye (207-83, college: Niagara) who recorded a double-double by scoring 19 points and 15 rebounds and American guard Courtney Pigram (185-85, college: E.Tenn.St.) added 25 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Heilongjiang's coach Guang Bi Xiao rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Whampoa have a solid three-game winning streak. They used an opportunity after Changan Group lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position. Loser Heilongjiang keeps the ninth place with 11 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Whampoa: W.Alan 34+20reb+2ast, Y.Ning 22+2reb+3ast, W.Jing 18+6reb+4ast, J.Michael 14+7reb+2ast, J.Lei 6+5reb+2ast, T.Chao 1+5reb+1ast
Heilongjiang: P.Courtney 25+6reb, E.Benson 19+15reb, W.Nan 18+1reb+1ast, Y.Gang 14+8reb, L.Naiyuan 5+3reb+4ast, J.Ming 4+3ast
gschID: 129396


ShenYang - Hebei 121-129

ShenYang (#5) was upset in by eighth ranked Hebei 129-121. ShenYang was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 67-57 second half run of Hebei. They dominated down low during the game scoring 110 of its points in the paint compared to ShenYang's 54. They outrebounded ShenYang 43-28 including a 37-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. American forward Christopher Lawson (193-83, college: Houston) notched a double-double by scoring 49 points (!!!), 11 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the effort and power forward Yiding Li (206-81) supported him with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Even 29 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) by American guard Corey Allmond (188-88, college: Howard Col. (TX)) did not help to save the game for ShenYang. His fellow American import forward DeAngelo Collins (206-82, college: High School) added 24 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 blocks. Five ShenYang players scored in double figures. Hebei (8-10) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Guangzhou FM. ShenYang lost eighth consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with nine games lost. They share it with Ningxia Hanas. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Hebei: L.Christopher 49+11reb+5ast, L.Yiding 19+11reb+1ast, V.Anthony 18+8reb, Z.GuoDong 12+2reb, W.XinLei 8+2reb+2ast, Z.ZhenHu 8+5reb+4ast
ShenYang: A.Corey 29+5reb+9ast, Y.Peng 26+4reb+2ast, C.DeAngelo 24+9reb+4ast, C.XiaoDong 17+1reb+2ast, Z.JunXiong 14+3reb+2ast, D.ChengLong 9+2reb+4ast
gschID: 129393




China Lost Again - by Robert Wang
China played 5 games during the Stankovic Cup. Today, China Lost again to Angola team 52:55 in Guang Zhou. First quator is 21-15, 2nd is 14-9, 3rd is 7-16 and 4th is 10-15. Yi Jian Lian got 15 points and 12 rebounds, Sun Yue received 8 points with 4 assists. Wang Shi Peng got 5 points and 6 rebounds with 1 assist, Liu Wei got 4 points with 1 assist. It seemed that china still have a big problem on the point guard position. The next game would be on tomorrow night between China VS New Zealand and Angola VS Russian.


China Loses to Angola 55-52 - by Arthur Volbert
China lost its fourth straight game in the second phase of the Stankovic Cup, falling to Angola 55-52. China led 21-16 after one quarter and 35-24 at the half. But it collapsed in the second half, being outscored 16-7 in the third quarter and 15-10 in the fourth.

China shot attrociously, hitting only 17 of 56 shots. China hit 3 of 20 three-pointers. China was outrebounded by Angola 48-32. The only bright spot is that China had only 9 turnovers to 11 for Angola.

Jianlian Yi (212-C/F-87) had 15 points and 12 rebounds in 23 minutes, but he hit only 3 of 12 shots. Sun Yue had 8 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists, but shot only 3 of 9. Xirelijiang had 7 points, on 3 of 7 shooting, along with 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals and looks like he has made the final team. Liu Wei played 27 minutes and had 4 points, 1 rebound and 1 assist. Wang Shipeng had 5 points and 6 rebounds but shot 2 of 12. Wang Zhizhi, Zhou Peng and Ding Jinhui remain absent. These games are practice, but practice is not going very well.

In the other game Russia defeated New Zealand 74-71.


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  CROATIA   


U16: Croatia tame Spain, enter Final in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U16 - Spain U16 64:60

Croatia became the first U16 European Championship finalists. They held off Spain in a thrilling semifinal clash in Pardubice tonight. Mario Hezonja (200-F-95) scored 24 points and handed out 5 assists to lead the winners.
The lead changed hands throughout close first quarter. Jelenek gave Croatia a 15:13 lead after ten minutes. Spain used a 9:0 run midway through the second period to take a 24:19 lead. Nevertheless Croatia rebounded and posted a 32:28 halftime advantage. Arapovic, Paolo Marinelli (184-G-95) and Mario Hezonja made it 38:28 for the Croats early in the third term. Spain cut the distance to 7 points with ten minutes remaining 40:47. Ventura and Marin dragged the Spanish team within three points 60:63 with 16 seconds remaining. Gabric answered with one free throw, while Martin and Ventura missed three-pointers as Croatia ran away with victory. Paolo Marinelli nailed 13 points, while Karlo Zganec (203-C-95) had 11 points and 11 rebounds for Croatia. Ilimane Diop (210-C-95) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds for Spain. Javier De La Blanca (197-F-95) produced 12 points in the loss.

Croatia U16: Mario Hezonja 24, Paolo Marinelli 13, Karlo Zganec 11+11 boards
Spain U16: Ilimane Diop 16, Javier De La Blanca 12


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  CYPRUS   


Lamar Karim joins B.M.C. AEK Larnacas - by Eurobasket Center
B.M.C. AEK Larnacas agreed terms with 28-year old American guard Lamar Karim (178-G-83, college: So.Poly State, agency: Interperformances). Karim played most recently at SK Dnipro Azot Dniprodzerzhynsk (Ukraine). While playing 47 games for DniproAzot last season his stats were: 12.6ppg, 3.0rpg and 2.6apg. But his best season in pro basketball was two years ago when he also played for Dnipro Azot. At the end of season was named to Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Honorable Mention. Karim is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in France, Switzerland and Ukraine.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Michalis Tsaggaridis takes over Omonia - by Michael Aristidou


Hasapis Omonia Nicosia team has found their new head coach for next season. Michalis Tsaggaridis is the new coach of the team. Tsaggaridis was again head coach of the team ten years ago in 2000 season. After that he was assistant coach in Keravnos Strovolou for several years and lately head coach of Cyprus U-16 team.

The team now looks to start programming for new season and sign up some players. The only player that has contract for new season is Lithuanian guard Linas Juknevicius (188-G-84)



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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


U16: Czech Republic heads into championship game - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic U16 - France U16 73:65

Czech Republic continued their impressive run at the U16 European Championship. The hosts drove past France tonight to enter the title game. Czech Republic will play against Croatia in the decisive game at the tournament tomorrow. France will face Spain in the consolation final. Martin Peterka (199-F-95) scored 25 points, grabbed 6 rebounds and issued 3 assists to pace the winners.
France led throughout the opening quarter. They recorded a 15:12 lead after ten minutes. Martin Peterka opened the second term with back-to-back three-pointers to put Czech Republic in front. The hosts marched to a 33:29 lead at halftime. Damien Inglis (198-F-95) and Paul Rigot (199-F-95) regained the advantage for Les Bleus early in the third term but not for too long. Czech Republic capped the third stanza on a 15:0 run to take a 53:40 lead. Matej Svoboda (197-F-96) and David Subert (182-PG-95) nailed five points in a row as the Czech team gained a 58:40 lead early in the fourth period. France got within eight points in the final minutes but ran out of time at the end. Prokop Slanina (204-C-95) tallied 13 points and 9 rebounds, while David Subert and Matej Svoboda had 10 points each in the win. Paul Rigot responded with 19 points for France. Olivier Yao-Delon (193-G-95) and Damien Inglis chipped in 14 points apiece in defeat.

Czech Republic U16: Martin Peterka 25, Prokop Slanina 13, David Subert 10, Matej Svoboda 10
France U16: Paul Rigot 19, Olivier Yao-Delon 14, Damien Inglis 14


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  ESTONIA   


Four Nations Cup: Estonia beats Sweden - by Janar
Estonian NT beat Sweden 65:60 (35:38) in the second day of the Four Nations Cup, a friendly tournament held in Saku Suurhall, Tallinn. Gregor Arbet led the home teeam with 12 points, Kristo Saage (184-G-85) and Joosep Toome (202-F-85) had 10 points, Kaido Saks (205-F-86) 9, Gert Dorbek (194-G-85) and Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-G-89) 8. Two players who played the key part in yesterday's victory against Georgia, Kristjan Kangur and Rain Veideman watched the game from the bench.
For the Swedish team, Christian Maraker scored 14 points and added 7 rebounds. Anton Gaddefors added 11 and Thomas Massamba 10 points.
With 6 minutes played, Sweden led 12:7 - Maraker had 6 points. Back-to-back baskets by Sten-Timmu Sokk took the hosts ahead 14:12 and since then, the game was veery even until the end. The baskets by Maraker and Johan Akesson took the Swedes ahead 27:22 in 2nd but three-pointers by Saage and Arbet held the game even. In 3rd, a triple by Gaddefors made it 43:38 but three-pointers by Arbet and Sokk took Estonians ahead and with a quarter to play, the hosts led 54:51. IN the last quarter, Kaido Saks became the hero for the hosts as he made 7 points in short period and with 3:20 to play, his three-pointer took Estonians ahead 61:58. Since then, the Swedes missed their last 7 shots. Free throws by Saage secured the victory for the hosts with 12 seconds to play.
In another game, Georgia defeated USA 98:81. Manuchar Markoishvili scored 20, Tornike Shengelia 15, Zaza Pachulia and Marquez Haynes 13 points for Georgia. Rodney McGruder led the US team with 22 points.
With one round left to play, Estonia leads the tournament with two victories. Georgia and USA have won one game, Sweden has two losses.

Estonia beats Georgia in friendly tournament - by Janar
Estonia beats Georgia 82:75 in the opening day of a friendly tournament in Saku Suurhall, Tallinn. Georgian NT, preparing for the EuroBasket 2011, played with the best possible lineup and led 55:43 at the beginning of the 3rd quarter but Estonians ended the quarter with a 23:3 run, took the lead 68:58 and never let their famous opponents to lead again. The coach of Georgian team, Igor Kokoskov (agency: Beo Basket ), was ejected during the run after two technical fouls. Estonians had a firm lead until the closing minutes when the guests fought back to a single point.
Joosep Toome (202-F-85) took the offensive rebound with 40 seconds to play and made the putback for a 78:74 what became a winning basket.

Kristjan Kangur (202-F-82) from Siena Montepaschi led the winners with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) added 18 points, making 4/8 from beyond the arc, Joosep Toome and Rain Veideman (192-G-91) added 13 points, Toome also took 9 rbs. Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-G-89) had 9 and Kristo Saage (184-G-85) 7 points.

Zaza Pachulia (212-C-84) led the Georgian team with 17 points, 16 of them in first half what was won by Georgia 43:37. Marquez Haynes (191-G-86, college: Texas Arlington) 14 and Georgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) 12 points. Nikoloz Tskitishvili (212-C/F-83) had 7, Tornike Shengelia (207-F-91) and Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) 6 points. Estonians made 13/26 from a long range. Georgian team made only 41% of two-point attempts.

in the other game, USA came back from a 11-points deficit in last two minutes to beat Sweden 78:77. Brandon Triche (193-G-91) scored 17, Rodney McGruder (193-G-91) and Matt Gatens (195-G-89) 10 for the winners. Christian Maraker (206-F-82, college: Pacific) was unstoppable with 24 points for the Swedish team


U16: Portugal rally past Estonia in Strumica - by Eurobasket News
Portugal U16 - Estonia U16 73:49

Portugal will play for the ninth place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They held off Estonia in classification round tonight. Portugal will take on Belgium on Sunday. Estonia will wrap up their campaign against Finland. Isaias Insaly (197-F/C-95) stepped up with 25 points and 8 rebounds to pace the winners.
Portugal held their opponents to 10 points in the opening quarter posting an 8-point lead. Portugal maintained the lead throughout the second period. They recorded a 38:25 halftime advantage. Portugal did not slow down in the third quarter. They outgunned Estonia for a 60:40 lead with ten minutes remaining. Estonia never recovered as Portugal cruised to the victory at the end. Pedro Marques (181-PG-95) notched 18 points, while Carlos Dias (186-F-95) added 10 points for the winners. Estonia answered with 10 points from Saimon Sutt (195-G/F-95). Sten Olmre (189-G-95) had 9 points in defeat.

Portugal U16: Isaias Insaly 25, Pedro Marques 18, Carlos Dias 10
Estonia U16: Saimon Sutt 10, Sten Olmre 9


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  EUROCUP   


Fraport Skyliners tabs Jon Leuer - by Eurobasket News
Fraport Skyliners bolstered its frontcourt by inking center Jon Leuer (208-F-89, agency: Priority Sports) to a one-year deal, the club announced Friday. Leuer just finished his college career at the University of Wisconsin (NCAA). He averaged 18.3 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 34 NCAA games last season, making it to the All-Big Ten first team. Leuer allowed Wisconsin to reach the NCAA Tournament eighthfinals. He also won the Big Ten Tournament with Wisconsin in 2008. 'Jon was one of the best talents in the NCAA last season. He is a big player that can play really well in the low post,' Skyliners head coach Muli Katzurin said. 'He runs the floor very well for a player his size and is a very smart player with high basketball IQ.'

Courtesy of www.eurocupbasketball.com

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  EUROLEAGUE   


Unicaja extends Garbajosa, lands Darden - by Eurobasket News
Unicaja reached a new agreement with power forward Jorge Garbajosa (205-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances) to keep him in the team next season. Garbajosa re-joined Unicaja midway through last season, averaging 7.2 points and 4.2 rebounds in 11 Spanish League games. He had started the 2010-11 season with Real Madrid and averaged 5.4 points in 11 Turkish Airlines Euroleague games before moving back to Malaga. Garbajosa led the club to its glory days in his previous two years in Unicaja. He simply took the club to the highest level, leading Unicaja to its only domestic titles so far, the 2005 Spanish King's Cup and the 2006 Spanish League crown, earning finals MVP in both events. Garbajosa had a stellar Euroleague career, helping Benetton Treviso reach the title game in 2003, when he was an All-Euroleague first team selection. In his four years with Benetton, Garbajosa also won back-to-back Italian League titles in 2002 and 2003 and lifted the Italian Cup trophy in 2004. He has also played for Tau Ceramica in Spain, Toronto in the NBA and BC Khimki in Russia. He won the 1996 Saporta Cup and the 1999 Spanish King's Cup with Tau and reached the Eurocup and the Russian League finals with Khimki in 2009. Garbajosa has also been a regular member of the Spanish national team. He won the gold medal at the 2006 World Championships and four EuroBasket medals - gold in 2009, bronze in 2001 and silvers in 2003 and 2007. He also has a silver medal from the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China. He ranks seventh in the Euroleague's all-time steals list (211) and is 10th in rebounds (777).

Unicaja added more depth to its roster by inking small forward Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) to a one-year deal, the club announced Friday. Unicaja keeps an option to extend his contract until the end of the 2012-13 season. Darden arrives from Sluc Nancy, to which he helped to win the French League title last season. he averaged 17 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.9 steals in 37 French League games last season. Darden has also played for Strasbourg in France, Melbourne South Dragons in Australia, Spirou Charleroi and Passe Partout Basket Groot Leuven in Belgium and Erdemirspor Belediyesi in Turkey since finishing his college career at Niagara University (NCAA). He helped Melbourne to win the Australian League title in 2009 and also lifted the Belgian League trophy with Spirou in 2008. Darden will make his Turkish Airlines Euroleague debut with Unicaja next season.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Olimpija extends Markota - by Zeljko Zule
Union Olimpija reached a new agreement with Croatian Damir Markota (210-C/F-85) to keep him in the team next season. Markota joined Slovenian runner-up last season, averaging 8.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 15 Euroleague games,7.7 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 27 Adriatic League games and 6.6 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 20 Slovenian Telemach League games.
Markota has also played for Cibona and Sanac Karlovac in Croatia, Zalgiris in Lithuania, Spartak St.Petersburg in Russia, Milwaukee in the NBA and Tulsa in the D-League. Markota has also been a member of the Croatian national team. He won three Croatian League titles with Cibona in 2002, 2004 and 2006. Markota also lifted three trophies - Lithuanian League, Baltic League and Lithuanian Cup - with Zalgiris in 2008.



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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Bozidar Maljkovic add Luka Rupnik for Adecco Cup - by Eurobasket News
Bozidar Maljkovic (agency: Interperformances ) add Luka Rupnik (184-PG-93) for Adecco Cup that will start this weekend in Ljubljana. The 18-year old Point Guard recently was the best player for the team at the European Championships U18 in Wroclaw.
Luka Rupnik participated also at the Belgrade International Junior Tournament -11, Eurobasket.com Slovenian League All-Newcomers Team -11, Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 Honorable Mention -11. At the European Championships U18 in Wroclaw (Poland) after 7 games he became the fifth top-scorer with 17.3ppg, 4.1rpg, Assists-1 (5.7apg), 1.9spg, FGP: 38.7%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 76.0%.
In 2009-2010 Luka Rupnik joined Geoplin Slovan Ljubljana (Telemach League) and in 8 games averaged 2.0ppg, 1.0apg. In 2010-2011 for Geoplin Slovan Ljubljana (Telemach League, starting five) he played in 27 games and showed 6.0ppg, 1.4rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 77.8%. He played also at junior team and at Union Olimpija Ljubljana junior team.
Slovenia wil start Adecco Cup EX-YU 2011 tomorrow against Montenegro. Tonight the capital will host FYR Macedonia versus Bosni and Herzegovina in the opener and Croatia-Montenegro in the second game.

Novica Velickovic and Mile Ilic miss the trip to Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) and Mile Ilic (215-C-84, agency: Beo Basket) miss the trip to Slovenia as the national team will participate at the Adecco Cup that will start this weekend in Ljubljana.
Mile Ilic was cut from the team after Dusan Ivkovic (agency: Beo Basket ) left Boban Marjanovic (222-C-88, agency: Beo Basket) in the team. Ilic was drafted by New Jersey Nets (NBA,2rd (43)) and played for the team in pre-season.
In 2009-2010 signed at Vujic Metalac Valjevo (Serbia-A League, starting five) and in 16 games averaged 10.7ppg, Reb-5 (6.9rpg), 1.3apg, Blocks-5 (1.0bpg), FGP: 55.5%, 3PT-3 (50.0%), FT: 58.8%. In 2010-2011 started for FMP Zeleznik Beograd (Serbia-A League, starting five) and in 42 games had 10.7ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.3apg, Blocks-2 (1.2bpg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 74.8%.
Novica Velickovic meanwhile miss the trip to Slovenia as he is still recovering from injury. He will join the team later for Lithuania. In 2009-2010 the Serbian player moved to MMC Real Madrid (Spain-ACB, starting five) and in Euroleague showed 7.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 41.7%, FT: 57.6%. In Spanish League after 42 games his stats read 9.9ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 70.0%. In
2010-2011 for Real Madrid (Spain-ACB) in Euroleague he had only3.4ppg, 2.8rpg, while in Spanish League showed 3.0ppg, 2.6rpg. In 2011 he extended the contract with Real Madrid (Spain-ACB) for another 2 years.


Greece tops Israel in exhibition match 67:66 - by David Pick
Updated: August 6, 2011, 20:21 PM

After a tough 65:58 'W' yesterday over an aggressive and stubborn Polish squad, Israel's NT lost this evening (Saturday) to a forceful and talented roster in the likes of Greece, in day two of the Cyprus International Tournament.

Led by two recent Euroleague champions Antonis Fotsis and Nick Calathes, Greece secured its first win yesterday overcoming a talented Italian NBA-like team, 76:70.

Both Greece and Israel's rosters are missing key players as Greek big man Sofoklis Schortsanitis and point guards Vasilis Spanoulis and Dimitri Diamantidis from one side, and NBA star Omri Casspi, along with national teammates David Blu, Yotam Halperin and Tal Burstein on the other end, are not participating in the Cyprus tourney due to personal issues.

Israel as recalled was pooled to one of the toughest groups in the EuroBasket games, as they will battle Italy, Serbia, France, Germany and Latvia for one of the first two qualifying spots.

Greece vs. Israel 67:66

Both teams began playing sloppy basketball and weren't competing on who scores more, rather who can turn the ball over more times (6-3). Midway through the first period Greece took an 8:6 lead. All players continued to struggle offensively, and the buzzer sounded with the scoreboard showing a small 12:11 Greek advantage.

In the second quarter both squads felt more comfortable, with Yogev Ohayon being the first to wake up, tying the score at 14:14 with a rare three pointer. Vasiliadis with a fast break jam and Antonis Fotsis with a three, gave the Greeks their biggest lead of the half, 27:19. However, buckets by Nissim and Eliyahu closed the gap and a buzzer beating jumper by Kostas Kaimakoglou, sent the teams to the locker rooms with the Greeks leading 31:26.

A 10:3 (41:29), Greek blitz started the third session, sending the Israelis to talk things over. Three minutes later Fotsis made it 47:33, but back-to-back points from Pnini and Kadir closed the period at 48:44.

Israel continued its comeback in the final period, Naimy with a lay-up and a sweet dish to Kukia gave Israel its first lead in over 33 minutes, 53:51. With sixty second left in the game, four straight points by Eliyahu gave Israel a 64:61 lead, but Fotsis drained a long trey to tie things up. Kaimakoglou's 'and one' play with two seconds remaining sealed the deal with a, 67:66, Greek win.

Antonis Fotsis led the Greek's with 16 points and 8 rebounds. Lior Eliyahu led Israel with 14 points.

Tomorrow (Sunday), Israel and Bulgaria will take the court in both their final exhibition game of the Cyprus tournament.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16   


Division A. Czech Republic and Croatia to clash for the title in Pardubice - by Eurobasket News
SEMIFINALS
Spain - Croatia 60-64
Croatia became the first U16 European Championship finalists. They held off Spain in a thrilling semifinal clash in Pardubice tonight. Mario Hezonja (200-F-95) scored 24 points and handed out 5 assists to lead the winners. The lead changed hands throughout close first quarter. Jelenek gave Croatia a 15:13 lead after ten minutes. Spain used a 9:0 run midway through the second period to take a 24:19 lead. Nevertheless Croatia rebounded and posted a 32:28 halftime advantage. Arapovic, Paolo Marinelli (184-G-95) and Mario Hezonja made it 38:28 for the Croats early in the third term. Spain cut the distance to 7 points with ten minutes remaining 40:47. Ventura and Marin dragged the Spanish team within three points 60:63 with 16 seconds remaining. Gabric answered with one free throw, while Martin and Ventura missed three-pointers as Croatia ran away with victory. Paolo Marinelli nailed 13 points, while Karlo Zganec (203-C-95) had 11 points and 11 rebounds for Croatia. Ilimane Diop (210-C-95) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds for Spain. Javier De La Blanca (197-F-95) produced 12 points in the loss.

France - Czech Republic 65-73
Czech Republic continued their impressive run at the U16 European Championship. The hosts drove past France tonight to enter the title game. Czech Republic will play against Croatia in the decisive game at the tournament tomorrow. France will face Spain in the consolation final. Martin Peterka (199-F-95) scored 25 points, grabbed 6 rebounds and issued 3 assists to pace the winners. France led throughout the opening quarter. They recorded a 15:12 lead after ten minutes. Martin Peterka opened the second term with back-to-back three-pointers to put Czech Republic in front. The hosts marched to a 33:29 lead at halftime. Damien Inglis (198-F-95) and Paul Rigot (199-F-95) regained the advantage for Les Bleus early in the third term but not for too long. Czech Republic capped the third stanza on a 15:0 run to take a 53:40 lead. Matej Svoboda (197-F-96) and David Subert (182-PG-95) nailed five points in a row as the Czech team gained a 58:40 lead early in the fourth period. France got within eight points in the final minutes but ran out of time at the end. Prokop Slanina (204-C-95) tallied 13 points and 9 rebounds, while David Subert and Matej Svoboda had 10 points each in the win. Paul Rigot responded with 19 points for France. Olivier Yao-Delon (193-G-95) and Damien Inglis chipped in 14 points apiece in defeat.



11-12 place
Ukraine - Greece 65-67
Greece narrowly defeated Ukraine in the final game of the U16 European Championship for both teams. Georgios Diamantakos (210-C-95) and Michail Liapis (188-G-95) scored 12 points each as the Hellenes claimed the 11th overall position at the tournament. Ukraine finished 12th after the loss. Greece got to a confident start. They posted an 18:10 lead ten minutes into the game. Ukraine stepped up offensively in the second term. They knocked down 22 points to narrow the deficit at two points at the interval 32:34. Ukraine eventually pulled ahead in the third quarter. Yevgen Sakhniuk (200-F/C-95) made it 48:47 at the final break. The lead changed hands throughout the final quarter. Ukraine grabbed 62:56 lead with under two minutes remaining but Greece reacted with an 11:0 run to made it 67:62 late in regulation. Ukraine drained a triple but Ukraine ran out of time to save the game. Dimitrios Stamatis (188-G-96) nailed 11 points, while Georgios Papadionysioy (185-PG-95) had 9 points in the victory. Anton Dziuba (201-F-95) and Yevgen Sakhniuk responded with 17 points apiece for Ukraine. Igor Boyarkin (180-PG-95) netted 7 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, issued 5 assists and made 4 steals in defeat.



5-8 place
Russia - Turkey 73-71
Russia will play for the fifth place at the U16 European Championship in Czech Republic. They nipped Turkey tonight to set up the clash versus Latvia tomorrow. Pavel Sizov (198-F-95) came up with 31 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort. Turkey will now take on Germany. Turkey unloaded 29 points in the opening quarter to take an 8-point lead. Russia stopped the rot in the second term cutting the deficit to four points at the interval 41:45. Russia got closer in the third term. They limited Turkey to 12 points in the period to trim the distance to just a single point with ten minutes remaining 56:57. Adnan Mustafa (188-G-95) drained back-to-back triples to restore a 7-point lead for Turkey early in the final period. But Russia responded with a 10:2 run to surge ahead 70:69. Metecan Birsen (203-F/G-95) returned the lead to Turkey however Vasily Martynov (185-PG-95) and Alexander Martynov (195-G-95) answered with three points to seal the win for Russia. Vasily Martynov accounted for 15 points in the victory. Artem Sokolov (207-C-95) had 8 points for Russia. Metecan Birsen responded with 14 points and 16 boards for Turkey. Adnan Mustafa netted 11 points in defeat.

Latvia - Germany 68-53
Latvia overcame Germany in the classification round at U16 European Championship today. Davis Geks (183-G-95) scored 19 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the effort. Latvia will now take on the winners of Turkey vs. Russia clash for the fifth place at the tournament. Germany led by two points at the first break 17:15. But Latvia denied the deficit and put their noses in front 34:33 at halftime. Latvia stiffened defence in the third quarter. They held Germany to just 11 points in the third period to build a 7-point lead with one quarter remaining. Germany managed only 9 points in the fourth stanza as Latvia eased to the victory at the end. Rolands Smits (201-C-95) nailed 13 points and pulled down 7 boards for the winners. Ismet Akpinar (188-PG-95) responded with 11 points for Germany. Stefan Ilzhofer (198-F-95) and Niklas Ney (205-C-95) finished with 9 points apiece in defeat.


9-10 place
Serbia - Italy 83-75
Serbia wrapped up their U16 European Championship campaign with win. They held off Italy to clinch the ninth position. Dusan Ristic (207-C/F-95) stepped up with 24 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort. Serbia led by just two points at the first break 19:17. Serbia mounted the pressure in the second period. They stretched the margin to as many as 11 points at the interval 43:32. The Balkan team kept their opponents at distance throughout the third frame. Serbia posted a 62:49 lead with one quarter remaining. The Azzurri went on a desperate comeback rally in the fourth period. They erupted for 26 points but still came up short at the end. Nikola Rebic (186-PG-95) provided 19 points, while Marko Guduric (193-G-95) netted 13 points in the win. Simone Fontecchio (197-F-95) answered with 25 points for Italy. Lorenzo Baldasso (190-G-95) delivered 10 points in the loss.


Group G
Poland - Lithuania 57-98
Lithuania recorded the fifth straight win at the U16 European Championship classification round. They stormed past Poland to stay on top of Group G. Aidas Kavaliauskas (179-PG-95) narrowly missed quadruple-double with 15 points, 13 assists, 8 rebounds and 7 steals in the victory. Poland fell at 3-2 record but still secured the Division A birth for the next season. Lithuania limited their opponents to 12 points in the starting period to post a 3-point lead. The Baltic team erupted for 27 points in the second quarter to boost the margin at 14-point mark. Lithuania continued to stay on fire offensively. They poured in 33 points in the third quarter to clear off to a 32-point distance at the final break. The Baltic team never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Paulius Zalys (198-F-95) and Denas Bartkus (201-C-95) finished with 12 points each for the winners. Mikolaj Witlinski (201-F-95) responded with 15 points for Poland. Filip Pruefer (208-C-96) and Damian Jeszke (200-F-95) had 10 points each in defeat.

Montenegro - Bulgaria 64-98
Bulgaria snapped seven-game losing skid at U16 European Championship. They opened win count cruising past Montenegro. Aleksandar Vezenkov (204-F-95) came up with impressive 40 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists to lead the charge. Montenegro fell at 1-4 record as both teams are now known to fall to Division B next year. Bulgaria and Montenegro stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Bulgaria eked out a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. Next two periods turned disastrous for Montenegro. Led by Aleksandar Vezenkov Bulgaria eased to a 43:30 halftime lead. Bulgaria unleashed 30 points in the third quarter to establish an insurmountable 32-point lead with one quarter remaining. Bulgaria never slowed down marching to the victory at the end. Vassil Stoimenov (198-F-95) tallied 15 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists in the win. Luka Savic (199-F-95) answered with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Montenegro. Luka Djurovic (199-F-95) provided 12 points in defeat.





Slovenia and England grab 2012 Division A appearance - by Eurobasket News
SEMIFINALS
Bosnia and Herzegovina U16-Slovenia U16 53-74

Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia struggled for the second ticket to Division A in 2012. Slovenia won the game 74:53 and advanced to the Final game.
Both teams knew the importance of the game and were noticed that England needed overtime to beat Israel in another Semifinal. Slovenia started the game with 19:13 after the first period and produced the same result in the second quarter. Nejc Zupan (203-PG-96) scored for 47:37 and Ritlop increased to 54:41. Nejc Zupan also closed the third period at 59:41 when it became clear about the winner. Adi Zahiragic (185-PG-95) and Matic Rebec (179-PG-95) exchanged for 64:43. Zatezic nailed three for 70:48, while Maslac brought 70:50 on the board. Slovenia won the last period 15-12 and advanced to the Final.
Nejc Zupan led the way with 18 points and Nicolic nailed 17. Matic Rebec posted 13, while Luka Kokol (191-G-95) notched 10. Adi Zahiragic ended up with 16 points in defeat and Nedim Buza (201-F-95) posted 9.

United Kingdom - Israel 94-84 OT
England Under 16 Men's team advanced to Division A for 2012 season. Simon Fisher's team needed overtime to beat Israel in the semi finals of the European Championship B Division in Strumica. England reached Division A in the eight year history of the two-tier European Championship. Before to write something about this game, it would be fait to send both teams to Division A. The battle that they showed tonight had everything: overtime, triple-double, intrigue, tears etc. England started with 22:7 in the opening period, while Israel replied with 19-11 in the second frame. Moreover the latter won the third and the last quarter to tie the game after four quarters. Idan Zalmanson (205-F-95) sent the teams to overtime at 78:78, but England was too good in it. Luke Nelson erupted with 27 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists, while Morayoninuoluwa Soluade (194-G-95) nailed 17. Kingsley Okoroh (212-C-95) collected 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Bohling posted 11. Idan Zalmanson finished the game with 24 points, while Sharon recorded a triple-double with 20 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. Or Cahal (190-F-95) followed them with 15 points.



5-8 places
Hungary - Romania 69-62
Hungary will face Armenia for the 5th place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Tonight Hungarian squad edged Romania 69:62 at the Classification Round for 5-8 places in Division B. Romania meanwhile will take on Holland in the game for 7-8 places. Romania grabbed the early lead in the game and reached 19:8 as Pogacean closed the first period. Hungary however bounced back in the second period to reduce to 2 points at the halftime. Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) tied the game at 33:33, while Hungary won the third frame 22-7. No matter how hard Romania tied to recover, they could not win the game. Vlad Cobzaru (203-C-95) scored the last three points in the game for the final result. Gyorgy Goloman stepped up with 13 points and Vrana as well as Perl posted 12 each. Papp ended up with 10 points in the winning effort. Vlad Cobzaru replied with 22 points and 11 boards in defeat and Stochici notched 10.

Holland - Armenia 71-85
Armenia stepped closer to the 5th place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team edged the Dutch side 85:71 in the Classification Round for 5-8 places. Both teams will play their final games tomorrow. The Dutch team controlled the first period and Jaron Dijkhuizen (195-F-95) scored for 10:2. Rosenmuller brought 16:12 in the start of the second period and Jaron Dijkhuizen added two for 22:14. Armenia meanwhile won the second frame and took 33:31 halftime advantage. The third quarter also belonged to the winning side that improved to 58:54 at the end of it. Another 27-17 in the last quarter brought the final result in the game. Mkrtychyan stepped up with 22 points and Pogosyan netted 21. Andrey Konstantinov (95) followed them with 14, while Radivoevich nailed 11 points. Bas Veenstra (204-F-95) collected 17 points and 10 rebounds in defeat as Holladn will play for 7-8 places. Jaron Dijkhuizen notched 16, while Brandwijk posted 11.

9-12 places
Portugal - Estonia 73-49
Portugal will play for the ninth place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They held off Estonia in classification round tonight. Portugal will take on Belgium on Sunday. Estonia will wrap up their campaign against Finland. Isaias Insaly (197-F/C-95) stepped up with 25 points and 8 rebounds to pace the winners. Portugal held their opponents to 10 points in the opening quarter posting an 8-point lead. Portugal maintained the lead throughout the second period. They recorded a 38:25 halftime advantage. Portugal did not slow down in the third quarter. They outgunned Estonia for a 60:40 lead with ten minutes remaining. Estonia never recovered as Portugal cruised to the victory at the end. Pedro Marques (181-PG-95) notched 18 points, while Carlos Dias added 10 points for the winners. Estonia answered with 10 points from Saimon Sutt. Sten Olmre (189-G-95) had 9 points in defeat.

Belgium - Finland 53-49
Belgium overcame Finland in the Classification Round for 9-12 places at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Belgium needed a defensive 53:49 win to play tomorrow for the 9th place. The Scandinavian team meanwhile will play for the 11th place in Strumica. Both sides exchanged the leads several times in the opening period and Emmanuel Lecomte (175-G-95) closed it at 13:14. Finland pushed the tempo in the second frame and Ozan Odabasi (196-C-95) brought 28:19 at the halftime. Moreover Hopkins scored for 39:25, but it was not enough for the victory. Emmanuel Lecomte reduced to 48:42 with 5 minutes to go and Emmanuel Lecomte closed the run at 50:48. Finland scored only 6 points in the last period and failed to win the game. Late baskets by Emmanuel Lecomte brought the victory for Belgium. Emmanuel Lecomte paced all the winners with 19 points and Gijbels nailed 6. Ozan Odabasi delivered 19 points in defeat and Sulejmanovic posted 8.

13-16 places
Switzerland - Luxembourg 91-81
Switzerland outscored Luxembourg at the Classification Round for 13-16 places at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Swiss team needed 91:81 to play for the 13th place tomorrow against Sweden. Luxembourg meanwhile will face Georgia for the 15th place. Switzerland started the game with 27:18 and never looked behind. The opponents won the second period 18-15 as Wirtz reduced to 42:36 at the halftime. In the third quarter Switzerland needed 30-15 for 21 points lead after three quarters. Le Sann nailed three for 75:57 and his team managed to deliver the victory. Mathias Tolusso (186-G-95) led the way with 22 points and Mario Raemy (180-G-95) nailed 19. Gruninger notched 14, while Le Sann scored 11. Grun erupted with 29 points in the losing effort and Gutenkauf netted 9.

Georgia - Sweden 53-84
Sweden won the game over Georgia at the Classification Round for 13-16 places at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Scandinavian team needed 84:53 to play for the 13th place tomorrow. The teams were tied twice in the first period before Sweden grabbed 20:15 at the end of the frame. Bergang increased to 35:24 and Johansson brought 48:34. Sweden added 21-13 in the second period as Johansson closed the half at 41:28. The third quarter was offensive in the game as Sweden nailed 30 points for the bigger lead. They won the last period 13-7 to celebrate the victory at the end. Ludvig Hakanson (187-PG-96) paced all the winners with 17 points, while Kovacek notched 14. Sogolj netted 13 and Lindstrom scored 9. Darakhvelidze ended up with 21 points in the losing effort and Puluzashvili added 15.

21st place
Austria - Slovakia 50-47
Austria and Slovak Republic finish European Championship 2011 as both teams ended up on the last spots in Strumica. Austria needed 50:47 in the last game to finish on the 21st spot. Slovak Republic lost the sixth game and finished on the last position. The squads nailed 15 points each in the opening frame, but Austria pushed the tempo in the second one and won 15-6. Hlivak closed the half at 30:21 for the Austrian side and Marvin Ogunsipe (193-F-96) increased to 35:24. Slovak Republic however erupted with an 11-0 run for 35:35 and won the period 22-14. Boris Belavy (197-F-95) tied the game at 47:47 and Pelc made two free throws for 2-point lead with 2 minutes to go. The later made another one to set up the final score in the game. Wolf top-scored for the winners with 12 points, while Pelc and Soldo netted 8 each. Matej Baluch (192-F-95) ended up with 14 points in defeat, whilst Boris Belavy collected 12 points and 10 boards.



Stats Leaders - Group B
Points Per Game
 Antreas CHRISTODOULOU
  CYP
  (193-G-95)
  Avg: 23
 1. Christodoulo., CYP23.0 
 2. Hakanson, SWE22.4 
 3. Grun, LUX18.7 
 4. Buza, BIH17.8 
 5. Sharon, ISR17.4 
 6. Konstantinov, ARM16.6 
 7. Veenstra, NED16.4 
 8. Hansen, DEN16.3 
 9. Insaly, POR15.9 
 10. Odabasi, FIN15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kingsley OKOROH
  (212-C-95)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Okoroh, ENG11.3 
 2. Cobzaru, ROM10.4 
 3. Insaly, POR10.0 
 4. Ritlop, SLO9.4 
 5. Nacevski, MKD9.3 
 6. Darakhvelidz., GEO8.9 
 7. Sulejmanovic, FIN8.8 
 8. Konstantinov, ARM8.5 
 9. Carroll, IRL8.3 
 10. Dijkhuizen, NED8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Naor SHARON
  (191-PG-95)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Sharon, ISR5.9 
 2. Nemcok, SVK5.2 
 3. Soluade, ENG4.6 
 4. Nikolic, SLO4.4 
 5. Lecomte, BEL3.9 
 6. Perl, HUN3.7 
 7. Nelson, ENG3.6 
 8. Polukhin, ARM3.4 
 9. Olmre, EST3.4 
 10. Abuladze, GEO3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Ludvig HAKANSON
  (187-PG-96)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Hakanson, SWE4.1 
 2. Soluade, ENG3.9 
 3. Zahiragic, BIH3.2 
 4. Papacostas, CYP3.2 
 5. Olmre, EST3.1 
 6. Ieronymidis, CYP3.0 
 7. Nacevski, MKD2.8 
 8. Rebec, SLO2.6 
 9. Grun, LUX2.6 
 10. Christodoulo., CYP2.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Kingsley OKOROH
  (212-C-95)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Okoroh, ENG4.7 
 2. Puluzashvili, GEO3.9 
 3. Mladenovski, MKD2.5 
 4. Cotture, SUI2.3 
 5. Goloman, HUN1.9 
 6. Vliet, BEL1.6 
 7. Ritlop, SLO1.6 
 8. Cobzaru, ROM1.6 
 9. Wurtz, AUT1.4 
 10. Michelsen, FIN1.4 


Stats Leaders - Group A
Points Per Game
 Aleksandar VEZENKOV
  (204-F-95)
  Avg: 29.5
 1. Vezenkov, BUL29.5 
 2. Seskus, LTU21.3 
 3. Sizov, RUS20.3 
 4. Hezonja, CRO19.9 
 5. Witlinski, POL17.8 
 6. Peterka, CZE17.1 
 7. Savic, MNT16.1 
 8. Kouril, CZE16.1 
 9. Fedorchenko, RUS16.0 
 10. Inglis, FRA15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Martin PETERKA
  (199-F-95)
  Avg: 12.4
 1. Peterka, CZE12.4 
 2. Witlinski, POL9.9 
 3. Vezenkov, BUL9.8 
 4. Seskus, LTU9.4 
 5. Inglis, FRA8.8 
 6. Diop, ESP8.8 
 7. Birsen, TUR8.5 
 8. Ristic, SRB8.3 
 9. Zganec, CRO8.3 
 10. Hezonja, CRO8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Radovan KOURIL
  (182-PG-95)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Kouril, CZE6.4 
 2. Martin, ESP4.8 
 3. Rebic, SRB4.4 
 4. Zywert, POL4.3 
 5. Kavaliauskas, LTU4.0 
 6. Djurovic, MNT3.9 
 7. Seskus, LTU3.9 
 8. Ozmizrak, TUR3.8 
 9. Boyarkin, UKR3.6 
 10. Plavnieks, LAT3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Igor BOYARKIN
  (180-PG-95)
  Avg: 3
 1. Boyarkin, UKR3.0 
 2. Martin, ESP2.6 
 3. Ozmizrak, TUR2.5 
 4. Fontecchio, ITA2.5 
 5. Sans, ESP2.3 
 6. Liapis, GRE2.3 
 7. Kavaliauskas, LTU2.3 
 8. Hezonja, CRO2.1 
 9. Soula, CZE2.1 
 10. Vezenkov, BUL2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Ilimane DIOP
  (210-C-95)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Diop, ESP2.8 
 2. Vezenkov, BUL2.0 
 3. Stoimenov, BUL1.6 
 4. Prokopenko, UKR1.6 
 5. Inglis, FRA1.5 
 6. Benvenuti, ITA1.1 
 7. Spyropoulos, GRE1.1 
 8. Slanina, CZE1.0 
 9. Wimberg, GER0.9 
 10. Draskovic, MNT0.9 


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


Israel destroy Hungarian defense to close the 2011 U-18 championship 96:68. - by Rangi Gescheit
Israel destroy Hungarian defense to close the 2011 U-18 championship 96:68.

Despite the fact that Israel destroyed the Hungarian defense the feelings in the Israeli camp were mixed since they were looking to fight on the title and the chance to go back top Div. A
That after losing last year at the semi Final, in Tel Aviv.

The head Coach, Ronen Ginzburg (agency: Avi Zilberman ):
We are disappointed. Who came here (to Varna Bulgaria) could see that we were good as anybody in the tournament. In most games we have shown a great basketball, but we missed and fail in the details, the little things and it is a shame. I am realistic but with a little bit of luck and those little things we have not executed we could get much farther. It needs to be remembered that we have missed the semi final by one basket.


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  FINLAND   


U16: Late baskets by Lecomte brought the victory for Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U16-Finalnd U16 53:49

Belgium overcame Finland in the Classification Round for 9-12 places at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Belgium needed a defensive 53:49 win to play tomorrow for the 9th place. The Scandinavian team meanwhile will play for the 11th place in Strumica.
Both sides exchanged the leads several times in the opening period and Emmanuel Lecomte (175-G-95) closed it at 13:14. Finland pushed the tempo in the second frame and Ozan Odabasi (196-C-95) brought 28:19 at the halftime. Moreover Hopkins scored for 39:25, but it was not enough for the victory. Emmanuel Lecomte reduced to 48:42 with 5 minutes to go and Emmanuel Lecomte closed the run at 50:48. Finland scored only 6 points in the last period and failed to win the game. Late baskets by Emmanuel Lecomte brought the victory for Belgium.
Emmanuel Lecomte paced all the winners with 19 points and Mathijs Gijbels (200-F-95) nailed 6. Ozan Odabasi delivered 19 points in defeat and Emir Sulejmanovic (203-C/F-95) posted 8.

Belgium U16: Emmanuel Lecomte 19, Mathijs Gijbels 6
Finland U16: Ozan Odabasi 19, Emir Sulejmanovic 8


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  FRANCE   


U16: Czech Republic heads into championship game - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic U16 - France U16 73:65

Czech Republic continued their impressive run at the U16 European Championship. The hosts drove past France tonight to enter the title game. Czech Republic will play against Croatia in the decisive game at the tournament tomorrow. France will face Spain in the consolation final. Martin Peterka (199-F-95) scored 25 points, grabbed 6 rebounds and issued 3 assists to pace the winners.
France led throughout the opening quarter. They recorded a 15:12 lead after ten minutes. Martin Peterka opened the second term with back-to-back three-pointers to put Czech Republic in front. The hosts marched to a 33:29 lead at halftime. Damien Inglis (198-F-95) and Paul Rigot (199-F-95) regained the advantage for Les Bleus early in the third term but not for too long. Czech Republic capped the third stanza on a 15:0 run to take a 53:40 lead. Matej Svoboda (197-F-96) and David Subert (182-PG-95) nailed five points in a row as the Czech team gained a 58:40 lead early in the fourth period. France got within eight points in the final minutes but ran out of time at the end. Prokop Slanina (204-C-95) tallied 13 points and 9 rebounds, while David Subert and Matej Svoboda had 10 points each in the win. Paul Rigot responded with 19 points for France. Olivier Yao-Delon (193-G-95) and Damien Inglis chipped in 14 points apiece in defeat.

Czech Republic U16: Martin Peterka 25, Prokop Slanina 13, David Subert 10, Matej Svoboda 10
France U16: Paul Rigot 19, Olivier Yao-Delon 14, Damien Inglis 14


Damien Griffin heads to Sorgues - by Eurobasket News
Damien Griffin (203-C/F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Mountain St.) heads to Sorgues for 2011/2012 season. The American Power Forward / Center comes from Angers BC 49.
Few years ago Damien Griffin played for Salsas Musa Ciudad de Cordoba (Spain-LEB Bronze) and in 31 games averaged15.1ppg, 6.9rpg, 0.9spg, 2FGP-2 (66.0%), 3PT-3 (50.0%), FT: 61.0%. In 2008-2009 moved to Ourense Grupo Juanes (Spain-LEB Silver, starting five) and showed 6.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.7%, FT: 42.6%, In 2009-2010 for Cajasur Cordoba 2016 (Spain-LEB Silver, starting five) his stats read 11.6ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 63.6%, FT: 53.3%. The season 2010-2011 Griffin started for Angers BC 49 (France-NM1, starting five) and averaged 12.6ppg, 6.7rpg, FGP: 61.8%, FT: 61.0%.
Damien Griffin recorded 23 points last season at the Regular Season Round 18. His Angers BC 49 overcame St Chamond 73-69, however just four-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 23-17 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was American power forward Damien Griffin who had a double-double by scoring 23 points and 10 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field).


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  FYR MACEDONIA   


Bosnia opened Adecco Cup EX-YU with the win over F.Y.R. of Macedonia - by Eurobasket News
F.Y.R. of Macedonia NT- Bosnia and Herzegovina NT 50:55

Bosnia opened Adecco Cup EX-YU with the win over F.Y.R. of Macedonia in Ljubljana.
Pero Antic opened the game for his team, while Elmedin Kikanovic brought the first points for the winners. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) closed the period from the perimeter for 14:10 at the end of the first period. Vojdan Stojanovski (194-G-87) cut it to 19:18, but Bosnia and Herzegovina needed a 10-0 run for 29:19. Vlado Ilievski later sent the teams to the lockers at 29:23 at the halftime. The third quarter also belonged to Bosnia that improved to 10 more points after 18-8 in the frame. F.Y.R. of Macedonia responded with 19-8 in the last frame but brought the game to 55:50 on the board.
Mirza Teletovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 19 points for the winners and Nihad Djedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) added 13. Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) notched 8 and Henry Domercant posted 7. Kiril Nikolovski (210-C-88) delivered 13 points in defeat and Vojdan Stojanovski scored 10.

F.Y.R. of Macedonia NT: Kiril Nikolovski 13, Vojdan Stojanovski 10
Bosnia and Herzegovina NT: Mirza Teletovic 19, Nihad Djedovic 13, Aleksej Nesovic 8, Henry Domercant 7


*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   


Georgia lose to Estonia in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
Estonia - Georgia 82:75

Georgia opened Tallinn international tournament with loss. They surrendered against hosting Estonia. Kristjan Kangur (202-F-82) stepped up with 19 points to pace the winners. Georgia enjoyed an 18:17 lead after ten minutes. They boosted the margin to 6 points at the big break 43:37. But Estonia turned things around in the third quarter. The hosts erupted for 29 points to ensure an 8-point buffer with one quarter to go. Georgia cut the deficit to just two points late in the game but it was not enough. Estonia pulled away with a narrow victory at the end. Joosep Toome (202-F-85) and Rain Veideman (192-G-91) knocked down 13 points each in the win. Zaza Pachulia (212-C-84) responded with 17 points and 8 rebounds for Georgia. Marquez Haynes (191-G-86, college: Texas Arlington) delivered 14 points, while Georgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) finished with 12 points in defeat. Georgia will take on the USA, while Estonia will face Sweden tonight.

Estonia: Kristjan Kangur 19, Joosep Toome 13, Rain Veideman 13
Georgia: Zaza Pachulia 17, Marquez Haynes 14, Georgi Tsintsadze 12


U16: Hakanson leads Sweden over Georgia - by Eurobasket News
Georgia U16-Sweden U16 53:84

Sweden won the game over Georgia at the Classification Round for 13-16 places at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Scandinavian team needed 84:53 to play for the 13th place tomorrow.
The teams were tied twice in the first period before Sweden grabbed 20:15 at the end of the frame. Bergang increased to 35:24 and Johansson brought 48:34. Sweden added 21-13 in the second period as Johansson closed the half at 41:28. The third quarter was offensive in the game as Sweden nailed 30 points for the bigger lead. They won the last period 13-7 to celebrate the victory at the end.
Ludvig Hakanson (187-PG-96) paced all the winners with 17 points, while Filip Kovacek (180-PG-95) notched 14. Dzenis Sogolj (202-F-95) netted 13 and Valter Lindstrom (180-PG-95) scored 9. Beka Darakhvelidze (186-F-95) ended up with 21 points in the losing effort and Archili Puluzashvili (200-C-95) added 15.

Georgia U16: Beka Darakhvelidze 21, Archili Puluzashvili 15
Sweden U16: Ludvig Hakanson 17, Filip Kovacek 14, Dzenis Sogolj 13, Valter Lindstrom 9


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


German U-19 national team lost to USA Midwest at the Nike Global Challenge - by Daniel Poerschke
The german U-19 select national team lost its first game at the NIke Global Challenge Tournament in Portland, USA on Friday night.
Coach by Kay Bluemel and Matthias Grothe the german squad lost 58:103 versus the USA Midwest select team.
Topscorer were Maodo Lo (184-G-92) with 12 points and Thomas Reuter (198-G-92) with 11 points. Gary Harris led the USA with 17 points and 9 rebounds.
On Saturday Germany is playing against the national team of Puerto Rico.

Germany lost to Finland in Hagen - by Eurobasket News
Germany lost to Finland in Hagen in the friendly game. Finland upset the hosts by winning 74:79.
A good start allowed the Scandinavian team take the lead in the first period. Being tied at 10:10, Finland grabbed 21:15 at the end of the first period. Konrad Wysocki (201-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton) reduced to 20:24 and Benzing tied the game at 28:28. Germany won the second period 26-15 and then had 41:36 halftime advantage. Lucca Staiger (196-G-88, college: Iowa St.) and Konrad Wysocki gave the hosts 52:51 and Germany enjoyed 59:57 at the end of the third period. The game was tied at 74:74 with few minutes to go, but Finland scored the last five points in the game to win the encounter.
Petteri Koponen (193-G-88) led Finland with 19 points, while Mikko Koivisto (194-G-87, college: NC-Greensboro) added 16 and Kimmo Muurinen (202-F-81, college: UALR) posted 12. Tim Ohlbrecht (211-C/F-88) scored game high 24 points in the losing effort.


Brian Roberts Extends With The Brose Baskets Bamberg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Sometimes to late is better than never, as the Brose Baskets Bamberg announced yesterday that Brian Roberts (188-G-85, agency: Interperformances) will play a third season in Bavaria. Roberts is a 26 year old 188cm combo guard from Toledo, Ohio that is known for his deadly crunch time bombs, but also is able to play the playmaker if needed. With the injury to American John Goldsberry, the club decided that Roberts will be their number one point guard this season. Last season, Roberts played Euroleague: 10 games: 12.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 92.7%; German League: 45 games: 10.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 84.5%. 'Brian has devloped further with us and was on the court with all our success. We are totally convinced that he can take over the role as playmaker which he showed for long phases last season and do it even better this season', stressed Bamberg head coach Chris Fleming (agency: Pro One Sports ). In his first season in Bambegr, Roberts played EuroCup: 14 games: 10.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 80.0%; German League: 43 games: 11.8ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT-2 (88.4%). In his two season in Bamberg, Roberts has won 2 Beko BBL championships and 2 Beko BBL cups.

Source: Brose Baskets Bamberg

U16: Latvia topple Germany in Pardubice - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16 - Germany U16 68:53

Latvia overcame Germany in the classification round at U16 European Championship today. Davis Geks (183-G-95) scored 19 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the effort. Latvia will now take on the winners of Turkey vs. Russia clash for the fifth place at the tournament.
Germany led by two points at the first break 17:15. But Latvia denied the deficit and put their noses in front 34:33 at halftime. Latvia stiffened defence in the third quarter. They held Germany to just 11 points in the third period to build a 7-point lead with one quarter remaining. Germany managed only 9 points in the fourth stanza as Latvia eased to the victory at the end. Rolands Smits (201-C-95) nailed 13 points and pulled down 7 boards for the winners. Ismet Akpinar (188-PG-95) responded with 11 points for Germany. Stefan Ilzhofer (198-F-95) and Niklas Ney (205-C-95) finished with 9 points apiece in defeat.

Latvia U16: Davis Geks 19, Rolands Smits 13, Rinalds Malmanis (200-F-96) 9
Germany U16: Ismet Akpinar 11, Stefan Ilzhofer 9, Niklas Ney 9


The Beko BBL Get Another Wisconsin Badger As Keaton Nankivil Reported Headed To Ratiopharm Ulm - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
It isnt official yet, but according to www.basketportal.com, Keaton Nankivil (203-F) will start his professional basketball career in the German Beko BBL with Ratiopharm Ulm. After Jon Leuer signed with The Fraport Skyliners Friday, another player from the Wisconsin Badgers with Nankivil will play in the Beko BBL. Nankivil is a 203cm forward from Madison Wisconsin that played four years for the Wisconsin Badgers. A former Wisconsin Mr. Basketball in high school, Keaton Nankivil (203-F) started every game of his junior and senior seasons, appearing in 117 career games with 87 total starts. The power forward tallied 32 career double-digit scoring games, including a career-high 25 points at Purdue (7-of-8 3-pointers) on Jan. 28, 2010. One of the best-shooting big men in UW history, Nankivil connected on 42.0 percent of his 3-point field goal attempts over his career. Nankivil also set the Wisconsin basketball record for forwards in the squat (430 pounds). In his junior season, he played 33 games: 8.1ppg, 4.7rpg, 1apg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 74.1%. In his senior season, he played 34 games: 9.7ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 45.7%, FT: 83.8%. Tied UW single-game record with seven 3-pointers (7-of-8 shooting) at Purdue (1/28/10) and also posted the second-highest single-game 3-point percentage in school history by going 7-of-8 (.875). His 42.0-percent career mark from 3-point range ranks 6th in UW history, had 42 blocked shots in 2010-11, equaling the sixth-highest single-season mark in UW history. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Big Ten Regular Season Champion -08, Big Ten Tournament Winner -08, NCAA Sweet 16 -08, 11, and All-Big Ten Honorable Mention -11.

Source: www.basketportal.com
Source: www.uwbadgers.com

Two-sport star Marcus Monk: "Basketball has always been my first love" - by Moritz Korff
Marcus Monk (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) is not being termed two-sport star without a reason. The 25-year-old wing out of Lepanto, Arkansas, could easily pursue a professional career in basketball as well as in football. Actually he already did just that. In high school Monk excelled in both sports, being named the 2004 Mr. Basketball of Arkansas and the National Football Foundation's Scholar Athlete of the Year.
At the University of Arkansas he put football first and turned out to be a star also at the collegiate level. In the 2008 NFL draft he was selected by the Chicago Bears and signed a contract with them, before he was waived some months later. Monk was close making the rosters of the New York Giants and the Carolina Panthers also, but in November 2008 decided to return to college to continue his basketball career.
A friend recommended him to Boris Kaminski, the coach of Hertener Loewen, last year and Monk ended up spending his first year as a professional basketball player in the German Pro B. And the former wide receiver took the league by storm. He averaged 22.2 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.1 steals, 2.2 assists and 1.2 block per contest, which made him the Eurobasket.com All-Pro B Defensive Player of the Year and a All-Pro B First Team selection.

Marcus, the thing that people is interesting the most: Do you already know, where you are going to play in the 2011-12 season?
Not yet, my agent Daniel Cutler is currently talking with teams right now...

You were named to the Eurobasket.com All-Pro B First Team following the 2010-11 season. Did you expect to have such great success in your first year overseas?
I really didn't know what to expect, I knew what I was capable of but my success really came from my teammates. They made the game easy for me.

Please sum up your first season overseas. Is there anything in German basketball that turned out to be totally different from what you expected before moving to Germany?
It was a great experience, the people were extremely nice. It was shocking how much the fans cared for the team...

On which position do you see yourself on the court?
I see myself as an athletic wing, that creates mis matches with my size and speed.

Did you ever regret pursuing a pro career in basketball instead of football, considering the fact that you were drafted by a NFL team?
No not at all, basketball has always been my first love.

Do you think your football skills are helpful on the basketball court in any way?
Yes, the physicality and attention to detail in football is second to none. It helps me be more aware.

Tell us about your summer practice. How does your normal day look like in off-season?
Wake up at 7am, lift weights and cardio then play pick up ball in the afternoons.

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


Aris Thessaloniki adds Kommatos to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
Aris Thessaloniki added to their roster 34-year old ex-international forward Nestoras Kommatos (203-F-77). Kommatos played most recently at Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyesi (Turkey). While playing 11 games for Mersin last season he averaged 6.4ppg and 2.1rpg. He started 10-11 season actually in Greece where he played until February for Marousi. In 17 games in the Greek league he averaged 13.5ppg, 6.5rpg and 2.2apg. He was also selected to Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League Honorable Mention. Kommatos is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Israel, Italy, Russia, Spain and Turkey.

By Eurobasket Data Center



Greece celebrated the second straight win at the International Tournament in Cyprus - by Eurobasket News
Greece NT-Israel NT 67:66

Greece celebrated the second straight win at the International Tournament in Cyprus. Greece won over Israel 67:66 for a perfect record.
Greece led 6:3 in the opening tip and won the first period 12:11. Nissim and Eliyahu closed the gap and a buzzer beating jumper by Kostas Kaimakoglou, sent the teams to the locker rooms with 31:26. The teams played well later in the game and four straight points by Eliyahu gave Israel 64:61 lead. Fotsis drained a long trey to tie things up, but Kaimakoglou brought he win for Greece.
Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) paced all the winners with 16 points and 8 boards, while Kostas Papanikolaou (204-F/G-90) added 10. Kostas Koufos (213-C/F-89, college: Ohio St.) and Kostas Kaimakoglou followed them with 7 points apiece. Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) produced 14 points and 8 boards in defeat and Elishay Kadir (202-F-87, agency: Avi Zilberman) as well as Guy Pnini (200-F/G-83) posted 11 each.
In Day 3 Russia will play against Greece in the second game of the day. Italy and Poland will close the tournament in the last game of the campaign.

Greece: Antonis Fotsis 16+8 rebs, Kostas Papanikolaou 10, Kostas Koufos 7, Kostas Kaimakoglou 7
Israel: Lior Eliyahu 14+ 8 rebs, Elishay Kadir 11, Guy Pnini 11, NIssim 10


U16: Greece clinch 11th place in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Greece U16 - Ukraine U16 67:65

Greece narrowly defeated Ukraine in the final game of the U16 European Championship for both teams. Georgios Diamantakos (210-C-95) and Michail Liapis (188-G-95) scored 12 points each as the Hellenes claimed the 11th overall position at the tournament. Ukraine finished 12th after the loss.
Greece got to a confident start. They posted an 18:10 lead ten minutes into the game. Ukraine stepped up offensively in the second term. They knocked down 22 points to narrow the deficit at two points at the interval 32:34. Ukraine eventually pulled ahead in the third quarter. Yevgen Sakhniuk (200-F/C-95) made it 48:47 at the final break. The lead changed hands throughout the final quarter. Ukraine grabbed 62:56 lead with under two minutes remaining but Greece reacted with an 11:0 run to made it 67:62 late in regulation. Ukraine drained a triple but Ukraine ran out of time to save the game. Dimitrios Stamatis (188-G-96) nailed 11 points, while Papadionysioy had 9 points in the victory. Anton Dziuba (201-F-95) and Yevgen Sakhniuk responded with 17 points apiece for Ukraine. Igor Boyarkin (180-PG-95) netted 7 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, issued 5 assists and made 4 steals in defeat.

Greece U16: Georgios Diamantakos 12, Michail Liapis 12, Dimitrios Stamatis 11
Ukraine U16: Anton Dziuba 17, Yevgen Sakhniuk 17


Alexandris presented by Aris as head coach - by George Fragkos
The new coach of Aris Thessaloniki is finally Vangelis Alexandris . The Greek club was very close to an agreement with Fotis Takianos and Milan Minic but something changed and Alexandris took over the place that Lefteris Subotic left. The experienced coach resigned from Marousi, which for one more year is struggling even to participate in the A1 league, and he immediately accepted the proposal from Aris. The main reason that he stated during his presentation is that the team from Thessaloniki happens to be the one that Alexandris has always supported and there he has passed his best period both as a player and as a coach.

'It was not difficult for me to accept the proposal of Aris. Financially, it is a very difficult period for the club and the whole country but this plan the board suggested is the only way to keep this great club running. Aris is one of the most successful clubs in Greece and its fans have always been proud for it. I am sure that once again they will support us and help the team become even more powerful', said Alexandris during his presentation and gave his promise that he is going to create a team that it will not only be able to win, but it will also play attractive for the fans basketball.


Marko Ljubicic joins Ikaros - by Eurobasket News
Ikaros strengthened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Marko Ljubicic (195-G-87, agency: Beo Basket). The 24-year-old guard spent the previous season in Serbia. Marko Ljubicic played for Metalac Valjevo. He tallied 12.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 2.1 steals per game. Marko Ljubicic earned Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Honourable Mention. Previously the guard had stints with Buducnost Podgorica and Superfund BP Beograd. He is the member of Serbian University National Team.


Greece opened the International Tournament in Cyprus with the victory over Italy - by Eurobasket News
Italy-Greece 70:76

Greece opened the International Tournament in Cyprus with the victory over Italy. The Greek side beat Italian team 76:70 in the last game of Day 1 in Nicosia.
Greece started with 26:18 in the first period, but Italy bounced back with 15-12 in the second stanza. It gave Greece 38:33 at the halftime when the teams left the court for the big break. Italy cut the deficit to 4 points after three quarters, but Greece needed 26-24 in the last quarter to seal the victory.
Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) stepped up with 13 points and Michael Bramos (196-G/F-87, college: Miami, OH) notched 12. Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) and Kostas Papanikolaou (204-F/G-90) followed them with 11 points each for the win. Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) ended up with 21 points in the losing effort, while Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) notched 14. Luigi Datome (202-G/F-87) netted 11 and Stefano Mancinelli (203-F-83) added 10.
In Day 2 Greece will face Israel in the last game of the day. Italy meanwhile will take on Russia in the second game of the day.

Italy: Marco Belinelli 21, Andrea Bargnani 14, Luigi Datome 11, Stefano Mancinelli 10
Greece: Ioannis Bourousis 13, Michael Bramos 12, Antonis Fotsis 11, Kostas Papanikolaou 11


*****************************************************
  HOLLAND   


Lasaulec Aris extends Calvin Chitwood - by Fred Roggen
Lasaulec Aris has reached an agreement with forward Calvin Chitwood (203-F-86, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Cal.St. Northridge) to extend his contract until the end of the upcoming 2011-12 season.
Chitwood averaged 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 80.3% in 38 Dutch Basketball League games last season.
The former graduate of Cal State - Northridge has also played for Niigata Albirex (Japan-BJ League).


PromotieDivisie News: Rotterdam2 and Jugglers welcome to the 'Promoite' - by Terry Cooper
The summer transactions has been going slow with all the talk of the NFL and NBA lockouts but as everyone is preparing for the upcoming season with new signings and big names, The Promotie is getting ready for another season of quality basketball in order to reach the playoffs and the title in 2K12. As Binnenland prepares to try and win the title again, Amsterdam2 are the big dogs in basketball in Amsterdam, and other teams are reloading their teams, I would like to welcome Rotterdam2 and The Jugglers to the league. Rotterdam2 is not a stranger to the Promotie as they played in 2006-07 before going to a lower level. This will be the first year for The Jugglers out of Enschende (that's a long ride to play) in the league and as I have said before to many of the teams coming into the division 'Better stack your teams to win!' Teams that have decided to go with the players from the Eerste Divisie have seen themselves going right back because they feel that there is no difference in the levels. Im telling you now..THERE IS A BIG DIFFERENCE and no better time than the present to get your teams ready to play against good teams every week to get one step closer to the playoffs in the spring. As we say welcome to these teams, we must say farewell to the Nijmegen Wildcats and The Black Eagles as they go back to the Eerste Divisie to work their way back up. Take it from the promoting teams of the past newcomers, if they could do it all over again, they would have got the best of the best players to make some noise early in the season. The teams this season are as follows:

1. Jugglers
2. Punch
3. Binnenland*
4. Cangeroes
5. De Groene Uilen
6. BS Leiden 2
7. Rotterdam 2
8. ABC Amsterdam 2
9. VBC Akrides
10. BV Hoofddorp
11. De Hoppers**
12. Red Giants
13. Goba
14. Almonte

* 2011 PromotieDivisie Champions
** 2011 Runner-up

U16: Armenia stepped closer to the 5th place in Division B - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands U16-Armenia U16 71:85

Armenia stepped closer to the 5th place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team edged the Dutch side 85:71 in the Classification Round for 5-8 places. Both teams will play their final games tomorrow.
The Dutch team controlled the first period and Jaron Dijkhuizen (195-F-95) scored for 10:2. Rosenmuller brought 16:12 in the start of the second period and Jaron Dijkhuizen added two for 22:14. Armenia meanwhile won the second frame and took 33:31 halftime advantage. The third quarter also belonged to the winning side that improved to 58:54 at the end of it. Another 27-17 in the last quarter brought the final result in the game.
Arkadiy Mkrtychyan (95) stepped up with 22 points and Sergei Pogosyan (95) netted 21. Andrey Konstantinov (95) followed them with 14, while Vladimir Radivoevich (95) nailed 11 points. Bas Veenstra (204-F-95) collected 17 points and 10 rebounds in defeat as Holladn will play for 7-8 places. Jaron Dijkhuizen notched 16, while Willem Brandwijk (204-F-95) posted 11.

Netherlands U16: Bas Veenstra 17+10 rebs, Jaron Dijkhuizen 16, Willem Brandwijk 11
Armenia U16: Arkadiy Mkrtychyan 22, Sergei Pogosyan 21, Andrey Konstantinov 14, Vladimir Radivoevich 11


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


U16: Trailing in the first period, Hungary outscored Romania - by Eurobasket News
Hungary U16-Romania U16 69:62

Hungary will face Armenia for the 5th place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Tonight Hungarian squad edged Romania 69:62 at the Classification Round for 5-8 places in Division B. Romania meanwhile will take on Holland in the game for 7-8 places.
Romania grabbed the early lead in the game and reached 19:8 as Pogacean closed the first period. Hungary however bounced back in the second period to reduce to 2 points at the halftime. Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) tied the game at 33:33, while Hungary won the third frame 22-7. No matter how hard Romania tied to recover, they could not win the game. Vlad Cobzaru (203-C-95) scored the last three points in the game for the final result.
Gyorgy Goloman stepped up with 13 points and Eric Vrana (189-G-95) as well as Zoltan Perl (189-G-95) posted 12 each. Peter Papp (191-G/F-95) ended up with 10 points in the winning effort. Vlad Cobzaru replied with 22 points and 11 boards in defeat and Ovidiu Stochici (174-PG-95) notched 10.

Hungary U16: Gyorgy Goloman 13, Eric Vrana 12, Zoltan Perl 12, Peter Papp 10
Romania U16: Vlad Cobzaru 22+11 rebs, Ovidiu Stochici 10


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  ICELAND   


KR tab David Tairu - by Eurobasket News
KR have agreed on terms of contract with David Tairu (191-G-86, agency: TM Sports, college: Texas Tech). The 24-year-old guard starts his professional career. He has graduated from Texas Tech University in 2011. David Tairu posted 10.0 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in his senior season. The guard participated at Eurobasket Summer League in Houston. David Tairu notched 23.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.7 steals per game for Team Dubai.


*****************************************************
  IRAN   


William Jones Cup. Philippines too good for Iran - by Eurobasket News
Philippines - Iran 73:59

Philippines earned the first win at the William Jones Cup. They overcame Iran in the opener. Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) stepped up with 24 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners.
Philippines limited Iran to 12 points in the opening quarter posting a 5-point lead at the first break. Iran increased the tempo in the second period but Philippines easily matched it. They registered a 37:30 halftime lead. Iran, who played without Nikkhah, scored just 8 points in the third frame to face a 16-point deficit with one quarter remaining. Iran outscored Philippines in the fourth quarter but never threatened the margin at the end. Andy Barroca (176-F/C-86) scored 13 points and grabbed 7 rebounds, while Joseph Casio (177-PG-86) added 11 points for Philippines. Hamed Haddadi (218-C-85) responded with game-high 25 points and 9 rebounds for Iran. Mahdi Kamrani (186-G-82) netted 18 points in defeat.

Philippines: Marcus Douthit 24+11 boards, Andy Barroca 13, Joseph Casio 11
Iran: Hamed Haddadi 25, Mahdi Kamrani 18


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


U16: England reached Division A in the eight year history - by Eurobasket News
England U16-Israel U16 94:84 OT

England Under 16 Men's team advanced to Division A for 2012 season. Simon Fishers team needed overtime to beat Israel in the semi finals of the European Championship B Division in Strumica. England reached Division A in the eight year history of the two-tier European Championship.
Before to write something about this game, it would be fait to send both teams to Division A. The battle that they showed tonight had everything: overtime, triple-double, intrigue, tears etc. England started with 22:7 in the opening period, while Israel replied with 19-11 in the second frame. Moreover the latter won the third and the last quarter to tie the game after four quarters. Idan Zalmanson (205-F-95) sent the teams to overtime at 78:78, but England was too good in it.
Luke Nelson (185-PG-95) erupted with 27 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists, while Morayoninuoluwa Soluade (194-G-95) nailed 17. Kingsley Okoroh (212-C-95) collected 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Nicholas Bohling (186-G-95) posted 11. Idan Zalmanson finished the game with 24 points, while Naor Sharon (191-PG-95) recorded a triple-double with 20 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. Or Cahal (190-F-95) followed them with 15 points.

England U16: Luke Nelson 27+7 rebs+6 asts, Morayoninuoluwa Soluade 17, Kingsley Okoroh 12+12 rebs, Nicholas Bohling 11
Israel U16: Idan Zalmanson 24, Naor Sharon 20+15 rebs+10 asts, Or Cahal 15


Greece celebrated the second straight win at the International Tournament in Cyprus - by Eurobasket News
Greece NT-Israel NT 67:66

Greece celebrated the second straight win at the International Tournament in Cyprus. Greece won over Israel 67:66 for a perfect record.
Greece led 6:3 in the opening tip and won the first period 12:11. Nissim and Eliyahu closed the gap and a buzzer beating jumper by Kostas Kaimakoglou, sent the teams to the locker rooms with 31:26. The teams played well later in the game and four straight points by Eliyahu gave Israel 64:61 lead. Fotsis drained a long trey to tie things up, but Kaimakoglou brought he win for Greece.
Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) paced all the winners with 16 points and 8 boards, while Kostas Papanikolaou (204-F/G-90) added 10. Kostas Koufos (213-C/F-89, college: Ohio St.) and Kostas Kaimakoglou followed them with 7 points apiece. Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) produced 14 points and 8 boards in defeat and Elishay Kadir (202-F-87, agency: Avi Zilberman) as well as Guy Pnini (200-F/G-83) posted 11 each.
In Day 3 Russia will play against Greece in the second game of the day. Italy and Poland will close the tournament in the last game of the campaign.

Greece: Antonis Fotsis 16+8 rebs, Kostas Papanikolaou 10, Kostas Koufos 7, Kostas Kaimakoglou 7
Israel: Lior Eliyahu 14+ 8 rebs, Elishay Kadir 11, Guy Pnini 11, NIssim 10


Greece tops Israel in exhibition match 67:66 - by David Pick
Updated: August 6, 2011, 20:21 PM

After a tough 65:58 'W' yesterday over an aggressive and stubborn Polish squad, Israel's NT lost this evening (Saturday) to a forceful and talented roster in the likes of Greece, in day two of the Cyprus International Tournament.

Led by two recent Euroleague champions Antonis Fotsis and Nick Calathes, Greece secured its first win yesterday overcoming a talented Italian NBA-like team, 76:70.

Both Greece and Israel's rosters are missing key players as Greek big man Sofoklis Schortsanitis and point guards Vasilis Spanoulis and Dimitri Diamantidis from one side, and NBA star Omri Casspi, along with national teammates David Blu, Yotam Halperin and Tal Burstein on the other end, are not participating in the Cyprus tourney due to personal issues.

Israel as recalled was pooled to one of the toughest groups in the EuroBasket games, as they will battle Italy, Serbia, France, Germany and Latvia for one of the first two qualifying spots.

Greece vs. Israel 67:66

Both teams began playing sloppy basketball and weren't competing on who scores more, rather who can turn the ball over more times (6-3). Midway through the first period Greece took an 8:6 lead. All players continued to struggle offensively, and the buzzer sounded with the scoreboard showing a small 12:11 Greek advantage.

In the second quarter both squads felt more comfortable, with Yogev Ohayon being the first to wake up, tying the score at 14:14 with a rare three pointer. Vasiliadis with a fast break jam and Antonis Fotsis with a three, gave the Greeks their biggest lead of the half, 27:19. However, buckets by Nissim and Eliyahu closed the gap and a buzzer beating jumper by Kostas Kaimakoglou, sent the teams to the locker rooms with the Greeks leading 31:26.

A 10:3 (41:29), Greek blitz started the third session, sending the Israelis to talk things over. Three minutes later Fotsis made it 47:33, but back-to-back points from Pnini and Kadir closed the period at 48:44.

Israel continued its comeback in the final period, Naimy with a lay-up and a sweet dish to Kukia gave Israel its first lead in over 33 minutes, 53:51. With sixty second left in the game, four straight points by Eliyahu gave Israel a 64:61 lead, but Fotsis drained a long trey to tie things up. Kaimakoglou's 'and one' play with two seconds remaining sealed the deal with a, 67:66, Greek win.

Antonis Fotsis led the Greek's with 16 points and 8 rebounds. Lior Eliyahu led Israel with 14 points.

Tomorrow (Sunday), Israel and Bulgaria will take the court in both their final exhibition game of the Cyprus tournament.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

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  ITALY   


U16: Serbia beat Italy to claim 9th place in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U16 - Italy U16 83:75

Serbia wrapped up their U16 European Championship campaign with win. They held off Italy to clinch the ninth position. Dusan Ristic (207-C/F-95) stepped up with 24 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort.
Serbia led by just two points at the first break 19:17. Serbia mounted the pressure in the second period. They stretched the margin to as many as 11 points at the interval 43:32. The Balkan team kept their opponents at distance throughout the third frame. Serbia posted a 62:49 lead with one quarter remaining. The Azzurri went on a desperate comeback rally in the fourth period. They erupted for 26 points but still came up short at the end. Nikola Rebic (186-PG-95) provided 19 points, while Marko Guduric (193-G-95) netted 13 points in the win. Simone Fontecchio (197-F-95) answered with 25 points for Italy. Lorenzo Baldasso (190-G-95) delivered 10 points in the loss.

Serbia U16: Dusan Ristic 24+11 boards, Nikola Rebic 19, Marko Guduric 13
Italy U16: Simone Fontecchio 25, Lorenzo Baldasso 10


Italy outscored Kirilenko-less Russia - by Eurobasket News
Russia NT-Italy NT 67:71

Italy outscored Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81)-less Russia in Day 2 of the International Tournament in Cyprus. Italy tied both records at 1-1 after 71:67 in Nicosia.
Russia started the game with 21-19 and did not mind the absence of NBA star Andrei Kirilenko. Moreover the team added 16-13 in the second frame for 37:32 at the halftime. The second half however belonged to the Italian team. Led by Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) and Stefano Mancinelli (203-F-83), Italy produced 17-14 in the third period and reduced to 2 points entering the last stanza. Another 22-16 in the final period brought the victory for the Italian squad.
Andrea Bargnani and Stefano Mancinelli recorded 43 points to combine for the winners. Luca Vitali (201-G-86) scored 9, while Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) added 8. Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: RIZO) bounced back with 15 points, while Sergey Monya (203-F-83) and Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) had 12 each.
In Day 3 Russia will play against Greece in the second game of the day. Italy and Poland will close the tournament in the last game of the campaign.

Russia NT: Timofey Mozgov 15, Sergey Monya 12, Vitaly Fridzon 12
Italy NT: Andrea Bargnani 23, Stefano Mancinelli 20, Luca Vitali 9, Marco Belinelli 8


Greece opened the International Tournament in Cyprus with the victory over Italy - by Eurobasket News
Italy-Greece 70:76

Greece opened the International Tournament in Cyprus with the victory over Italy. The Greek side beat Italian team 76:70 in the last game of Day 1 in Nicosia.
Greece started with 26:18 in the first period, but Italy bounced back with 15-12 in the second stanza. It gave Greece 38:33 at the halftime when the teams left the court for the big break. Italy cut the deficit to 4 points after three quarters, but Greece needed 26-24 in the last quarter to seal the victory.
Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) stepped up with 13 points and Michael Bramos (196-G/F-87, college: Miami, OH) notched 12. Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) and Kostas Papanikolaou (204-F/G-90) followed them with 11 points each for the win. Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) ended up with 21 points in the losing effort, while Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) notched 14. Luigi Datome (202-G/F-87) netted 11 and Stefano Mancinelli (203-F-83) added 10.
In Day 2 Greece will face Israel in the last game of the day. Italy meanwhile will take on Russia in the second game of the day.

Italy: Marco Belinelli 21, Andrea Bargnani 14, Luigi Datome 11, Stefano Mancinelli 10
Greece: Ioannis Bourousis 13, Michael Bramos 12, Antonis Fotsis 11, Kostas Papanikolaou 11


Assi Basket Ostuni signs Aaron Johnson and Mareks Jurevicus - by Giulio Signorini
ASSI Basket Ostuni announces it has reached an agreement for the 2011/2012 lega2 season with Aaron Johnson (172-G-88) and Mareks Jurevicus (198-G/F-85).
Born in Chicago on 27/10/1988, Aaron Johnson is a playmaker of 172 cm. Aaron is a player with a great speed, a good defender and assist-man, was voted as the Conference USA Men's Basketball Player of the Year in last NCAA championship. The American player has also an enviable athleticism that makes him very often unpredictable and difficult to mark by the opponents of the role. It was the first player to be named 'Player of the Year' in the history of college 'University of Alabama at Birmingham.' The excellent performance in the 2011 NCAA has allowed Aaron to be nominated in the best defensive lineup last season.
Mareks Jurevicus is a guard-small forward of 196 cm. Born on 01.17.1985 in Liepaja (Latvia), he played from December 2010 with Tezenis Verona were he was trained from Franco Marcelletti new coach of Ostuni. Player with an excellent three-point skill, before arriving in Italy he played in Liepajas Lauvas, and for Latvia National team. In his hometown teams he was considered a leader with an average of 19 points per game in the Baltic League and 22 in the Latvian league. He previously played in the clubs of Ventspils. Last season in Verona has made significant digits while shooting 42% from 2 and 40% from 3. He has made 12.3 points average in 31.5 minutes well played. Good passer with nearly two assists per game.

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  JAPAN   


Cohey Aoki joins Osaka Evessa - by Eurobasket News
Osaka Evassa bolstered their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Cohey Aoki (167-G-80). The deal will be meant for one season. Cohey Aoki played for the Tokya Apache since 2005. Last season the guard averaged 12.3 points, 2.2 assists, 1.8 rebounds and 1.0 steal per appearance. Asia-Basket.com named Cohey Aoki All-Japanese BJ League Guard of the Year in 2008. He was also Domestic Player of the Year in the same season. Cohey Aoki made it into BJ League All-Domestic Team in 2009 and 2010. Cohey Aoki is meant to replace Kenny Satterfield (188-G-81, college: Cincinnati) on Evessa roster. Satterfield will play for the Saitama Broncos next season.


William Jones Cup. Taiwan account for Japan - by Eurobasket News
Taiwan - Japan 99:72

Taiwan recorded the first win at the William Jones Cup. The hosts thrashed Japan in the opener. Creighton Douglas (195-F-85) stepped up with 18 points to pace the effort.
Taiwan set the tone early. They outgunned Japan 21:13 in the opening ten minutes. Taiwan boosted the margin to 12 points at the interval 43:31. Taiwan did not slow down in the third quarter. The home team fired 33 points and arrived at the final intermission up by as many as 22 points. Japan could not pick up the tempo and suffered a heavy defeat at the end. Wen-Ting Tseng (202-C/F-84) contributed 15 points for Taiwan. Lu Cheng-Ju (194-F-86) had 12 points in the victory. Keijuro Matsui (188-G-85, college: Columbia) responded with 13 points for Japan. Yuta Watanabe (195-G-94) knocked down 12 points in the loss.

Taiwan: Creighton Douglas 18, Wen-Ting Tseng 15, Lu Cheng-Ju 12
Japan: Keijuro Matsui 13, Yuta Watanabe 12, Sean Hinkley (197-F-91) 11


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  JORDAN   


William Jones Cup. Jordan thrash UAE - by Eurobasket News
Jordan - UAE 91:72

Jordan stormed past UAE to post the opening win at the William Jones Cup. Rasheim Wright (194-G-81, college: District of Col.) stepped up with 15 points to pace Tab Baldwin team.
The teams stayed close throughout the first half. Jordan earned an 18:14 lead ten minutes into the game. They maintained the lead posting a 36:29 halftime advantage. But Jordan stepped on the gas in the third quarter. They fired 31 points to clear off to a 17-point distance at the final break. UAE never recovered as Jordan rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Abbas Zaid (203-F-83) accounted for 14 points, while Ali Zaghab (205-F/C-88) stepped up with 12 points for the winners. Omar Khalid (190-F-91) responded with 19 points for UAE. Husain Ahmed (180-G-89), Mohamed Al Braiki (190-G-91), Ibrahim Ahmad (175-G-79) and Rashed Al Zaabi (188-G-88) all scored 9 points each in the loss.

Jordan: Rasheim Wright 15, Abbas Zaid 14, Ali Zaghab 12
UAE: Omar Khalid 19, Ibrahim Ahmad 9


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  LATVIA   


U16: Latvia topple Germany in Pardubice - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16 - Germany U16 68:53

Latvia overcame Germany in the classification round at U16 European Championship today. Davis Geks (183-G-95) scored 19 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the effort. Latvia will now take on the winners of Turkey vs. Russia clash for the fifth place at the tournament.
Germany led by two points at the first break 17:15. But Latvia denied the deficit and put their noses in front 34:33 at halftime. Latvia stiffened defence in the third quarter. They held Germany to just 11 points in the third period to build a 7-point lead with one quarter remaining. Germany managed only 9 points in the fourth stanza as Latvia eased to the victory at the end. Rolands Smits (201-C-95) nailed 13 points and pulled down 7 boards for the winners. Ismet Akpinar (188-PG-95) responded with 11 points for Germany. Stefan Ilzhofer (198-F-95) and Niklas Ney (205-C-95) finished with 9 points apiece in defeat.

Latvia U16: Davis Geks 19, Rolands Smits 13, Rinalds Malmanis (200-F-96) 9
Germany U16: Ismet Akpinar 11, Stefan Ilzhofer 9, Niklas Ney 9


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  LEBANON   


Lebanon in Turkey & Qatar - by Asia-Basket Lebanon
The Lebanese National Team will participate in the Doha International Tournament 24 till 27 August. Lebanon will meet Syria,Iraq and the Philippines.
Lebanon will undergo a training camp in Turkey on the 15th of August,in this camp Lebanon will play 3 to 4 games , 2 against Ukraine. This camp will be a preparation for the Doha Tournament.
On the other side its not confirmed if some key names will be missed this summer ( Fadi Khatib,Ali Mahmoud,Daniel Faris,Matt Freije) due to injuries.
Lebanon is drawn in Group A in the FIBA Asia championship in the preliminary round but Round 2 should be very hard coz it will join as expected Lebanon to Iran,Qatar,Chinese Taipei and Korea, 4 teams will qualify to the Quarter Final.
Lebanon is looking for a player to nationalize but till this day no player is recruited , Coach Sarkiss is looking in a list of 4 players to pick the player who will join the team in China.
Lebanon played in Jordan in the King Abdullah Tournament with Micheal Southill who didint show any signs to keep him in the team.

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  LITHUANIA   


U16: Lithuania earn fifth straight victory - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16 - Poland U16 98:57

Lithuania recorded the fifth straight win at the U16 European Championship classification round. They stormed past Poland to stay on top of Group G. Aidas Kavaliauskas (179-PG-95) narrowly missed quadruple-double with 15 points, 13 assists, 8 rebounds and 7 steals in the victory. Poland fell at 3-2 record but still secured the Division A birth for the next season.
Lithuania limited their opponents to 12 points in the starting period to post a 3-point lead. The Baltic team erupted for 27 points in the second quarter to boost the margin at 14-point mark. Lithuania continued to stay on fire offensively. They poured in 33 points in the third quarter to clear off to a 32-point distance at the final break. The Baltic team never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Paulius Zalys (198-F-95) and Denas Bartkus (201-C-95) finished with 12 points each for the winners. Mikolaj Witlinski (201-F-95) responded with 15 points for Poland. Filip Pruefer (208-C-96) and Damian Jeszke (200-F-95) had 10 points each in defeat.

Lithuania U16: Aidas Kavaliauskas 15+13 assists, Paulius Zalys 12, Denas Bartkus 12
Poland U16: Mikolaj Witlinski 15, Filip Pruefer 10, Damian Jeszke 10


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  LUXEMBOURG   


U16: Switzerland outscored Luxembourg at the Classification Round for 13-16 places - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland U16-Luxembourg U16 91:81

Switzerland outscored Luxembourg at the Classification Round for 13-16 places at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Swiss team needed 91:81 to play for the 13th place tomorrow against Sweden. Luxembourg meanwhile will face Georgia for the 15th place.
Switzerland started the game with 27:18 and never looked behind. The opponents won the second period 18-15 as Wirtz reduced to 42:36 at the halftime. In the third quarter Switzerland needed 30-15 for 21 points lead after three quarters. Le Sann nailed three for 75:57 and his team managed to deliver the victory.
Mathias Tolusso (186-G-95) led the way with 22 points and Mario Raemy (180-G-95) nailed 19. Randon Thomas Grun (194-G/F-95)inger (190-F-95) notched 14, while Le Sann scored 11. Thomas Grun erupted with 29 points in the losing effort and Philippe Gutenkauf (181-PG-95) netted 9.

Switzerland U16: Mathias Tolusso 22, Mario Raemy 19, Randon Thomas Gruninger 14, Le Sann 11
Luxembourg U16: Thomas Grun 29, Philippe Gutenkauf 9



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  MALAYSIA   


William Jones Cup. South Korea cruise past Malaysia - by Eurobasket News
South Korea - Malaysia 110:50

South Korea victoriously opened their William Jones Cup campaign. They fired past Malaysia on the first day of action in New Taipei City. Five players scored in double digits for South Korea. Kang Byung-Hyun (193-G/F-85) scored 17 points to lead the effort.
South Korea eased to a comfortable lead early in the encounter. They posted a 26:7 lead after ten minutes. More to come in the second term. South Korea limited their opponents to just two points in the second quarter to establish a 53:9 halftime lead. South Korea breezed to the victory afterwards. Cho Sung-Min (189-F-83) produced 16 points, while Lee Jung-Suk (184-G-82) netted 11 points, issued 6 assists and pulled down 6 rebounds in the victory. Li Wei Chee (186-F-85) responded with 12 points for Malaysia. Ban Sin Ooi (180-G/F-83) and Yeo Seng John Ng (190-F-81) had 7 points each in the loss.

South Korea: Stevenson Cameron (200-F-75, agency: Alti Sport, college: Richmond) 17, Kang Byung-Hyun 17, Cho Sung-Min 16
Malaysia: Li Wei Chee 12, Ban Sin Ooi 7, Yeo Seng John Ng 7


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


U16: Bulgaria beat Montenegro, both head to Division B - by Eurobasket News
Bulgaria U16 - Montenegro U16 98:64

Bulgaria snapped seven-game losing skid at U16 European Championship. They opened win count cruising past Montenegro. Aleksandar Vezenkov (204-F-95) came up with impressive 40 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists to lead the charge. Montenegro fell at 1-4 record as both teams are now known to fall to Division B next year.
Bulgaria and Montenegro stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Bulgaria eked out a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. Next two periods turned disastrous for Montenegro. Led by Aleksandar Vezenkov Bulgaria eased to a 43:30 halftime lead. Bulgaria unleashed 30 points in the third quarter to establish an insurmountable 32-point lead with one quarter remaining. Bulgaria never slowed down marching to the victory at the end. Vassil Stoimenov (198-F-95) tallied 15 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists in the win. Luka Savic (199-F-95) answered with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Montenegro. Luka Djurovic (199-F-95) provided 12 points in defeat.

Bulgaria U16: Aleksandar Vezenkov 40+10 boards, Vassil Stoimenov 15, Anguel Peychinov (196-F-95) 11
Montenegro U16: Luka Savic 16, Luka Djurovic 12


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  NAIA   


Martin Methodist College Still Remembering Desmond Allison #32 - by Stephan Ditgens

Columbus, Ohio - On (7/25) it was with great sadness that the Martin Methodist College RedHawks family announced the death of one of its all-time greats in former basketball standout, Desmond Allison. Allison, 31, was tragically shot and killed in a dispute turned violent in Columbus, Ohio.
After a two-year career at the University of Kentucky, Allison joined the RedHawks family in 2000, providing a spark of energy the likes of which the program had never seen.
'The news of Desmond's death saddens me,' MMC Athletic Director Jeff Bain said in a statement Monday night. 'Desmond's positive impact on Martin Methodist's athletic program was huge. He literally put us on the map as contenders and helped raise the level of both competition and competitors on our campus and within our conference.
During his two seasons at MMC, Desmond was one of the premier players in the nation, earning NAIA All-American Honorable Mention honors in 2001 and again in 2002. Alongside teammate and fellow All-American Johnny Goodman, and their supporting cast, Allison helped lead MMC to its first ever NAIA National Tournament appearances.
Allison's tireless work ethic on the court was matched only by his desire to work and provide for those in less fortunate situations than himself off the court.
'Desmond was an absolute gem of a basketball player and a quiet leader who led by example,' Bain said. 'He came to us from the University of Kentucky with a unique departure from the Wildcats. He never once spoke harshly of the UK program nor complained of the transition from the NCAA Division I to the NAIA. I learned a lot from Desmond and he had an infectious smile that I'll never forget. Martin Methodist is a better place as a result of the two years that Desmond was a member of our community and the impact that he had with us. My prayers go out to his mother and family.
Funeral arrangements at this time are unannounced. Martin Methodist College will announce the details on its website as they become available.

source: martinmethodist.edu

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  NCAA1   


German U-19 national team lost to USA Midwest at the Nike Global Challenge - by Daniel Poerschke
The german U-19 select national team lost its first game at the NIke Global Challenge Tournament in Portland, USA on Friday night.
Coach by Kay Bluemel and Matthias Grothe the german squad lost 58:103 versus the USA Midwest select team.
Topscorer were Maodo Lo (184-G-92) with 12 points and Thomas Reuter (198-G-92) with 11 points. Gary Harris led the USA with 17 points and 9 rebounds.
On Saturday Germany is playing against the national team of Puerto Rico.

USA Select nip Sweden in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
USA Select - Sweden 78:77

USA Select team opened Tallinn International friendly tournament with victory. They narrowly defeated Sweden in the opener. Brandon Triche (6'4''-G-91) stepped up with 17 points to pace the effort.
USA Select eked out a 21:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Sweden pulled in front in the second period. They posted a 38:32 halftime advantage. But the North American team shifted the gear in the third quarter. They unleashed 29 points to ensure cut the deficit to just two points with one quarter remaining. Sweden were up by a single point 77:76 with just seconds left in regulation before USA Select team fired a decisive shot and sealed the victory at the end. Rodney McGruder (6'4''-G-91) and Matt Gatens (6'5''-G-89) stepped up with 10 points each for the winners. Mike Bruesewitz (6'6''-F) had 9 points in the victory. Christian Maraker (6'9''-F-82, college: Pacific) responded with game-high 24 points for Sweden. Anton Gaddefors (6'7''-F-89) provided 15 points in defeat.

USA Select: Brandon Triche 17, Rodney McGruder 10, Matt Gatens 10
Sweden: Christian Maraker 24, Anton Gaddefors 15


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  PHILIPPINES   


William Jones Cup. Philippines too good for Iran - by Eurobasket News
Philippines - Iran 73:59

Philippines earned the first win at the William Jones Cup. They overcame Iran in the opener. Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) stepped up with 24 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners.
Philippines limited Iran to 12 points in the opening quarter posting a 5-point lead at the first break. Iran increased the tempo in the second period but Philippines easily matched it. They registered a 37:30 halftime lead. Iran, who played without Nikkhah, scored just 8 points in the third frame to face a 16-point deficit with one quarter remaining. Iran outscored Philippines in the fourth quarter but never threatened the margin at the end. Andy Barroca (176-F/C-86) scored 13 points and grabbed 7 rebounds, while Joseph Casio (177-PG-86) added 11 points for Philippines. Hamed Haddadi (218-C-85) responded with game-high 25 points and 9 rebounds for Iran. Mahdi Kamrani (186-G-82) netted 18 points in defeat.

Philippines: Marcus Douthit 24+11 boards, Andy Barroca 13, Joseph Casio 11
Iran: Hamed Haddadi 25, Mahdi Kamrani 18


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  POLAND   


Konrad Wysocki stays with PGE Turow - by Eurobasket News
Konrad Wysocki (201-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton) stays with PGE Turow for another season. It will be the third season for the German National Player.
In 2009-2010 he joined PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-PLK, starting five) and in EuroCup averaged 10.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 47.6%, FT: 60.0%. In Polish League after 30 games his stats read 7.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 64.9%. Last year he averaged 10.4ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 75.6%.
Last night Germany lost to Finland in Hagen in the friendly game. Finland upset the hosts by winning 74:79. Konrad Wysocki scored 14 points for the National team and was of the key players for Germany.Being tied at 10:10, Finland grabbed 21:15 at the end of the first period. Konrad Wysocki reduced to 20:24 and Benzing tied the game at 28:28. Germany won the second period 26-15 and then had 41:36 halftime advantage. Staiger and Konrad Wysocki gave the hosts 52:51 and Germany enjoyed 59:57 at the end of the third period, but lost the game.


Adam Hrycaniuk leads Poland over Bulgaria in Nicosia - by Eurobasket News
Poland NT-Bulgaria NT 64:55

Adam Hrycaniuk (208-C-84, college: Cincinnati) leads the National team of Poland over Bulgaria in Nicosia in Day 2 of the International Tournament. Both teams started the second day, while Poland needed 64:55 win for 1-1 record. Bulgaria suffered the second loss but stayed tough in the first half.
Bulgaria started better and took 14:13 lead after the first period. The second quarter remained the teams close and only 16-13 in it gave Poland 29:27 halftime advantage. In the third quarter Poland added 15-14 and enjoyed 3 point deficit at the end of the third period. Another 20-14 in the last stanza brought the necessary victory for Poland.
Adam Hrycaniuk paced all the winners with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) nailed 13. Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) posted 12 and Adam Waczynski (199-F-89, agency: Limelight Hoops) scored 8. Dejan Ivanov (205-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) ended up with 14 points in the losing effort and Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky) added 11.
Bulgaria will open Day 3 in the game against Israel. Poland meanwhile will take on Italy in the last game of the competition.

Poland NT: Adam Hrycaniuk 20+11 rebs, Dardan Berisha 13, Lukasz Koszarek 12 Adam Waczynski 8
Bulgaria NT: Dejan Ivanov 14, Filip Videnov 11


U16: Lithuania earn fifth straight victory - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16 - Poland U16 98:57

Lithuania recorded the fifth straight win at the U16 European Championship classification round. They stormed past Poland to stay on top of Group G. Aidas Kavaliauskas (179-PG-95) narrowly missed quadruple-double with 15 points, 13 assists, 8 rebounds and 7 steals in the victory. Poland fell at 3-2 record but still secured the Division A birth for the next season.
Lithuania limited their opponents to 12 points in the starting period to post a 3-point lead. The Baltic team erupted for 27 points in the second quarter to boost the margin at 14-point mark. Lithuania continued to stay on fire offensively. They poured in 33 points in the third quarter to clear off to a 32-point distance at the final break. The Baltic team never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Paulius Zalys (198-F-95) and Denas Bartkus (201-C-95) finished with 12 points each for the winners. Mikolaj Witlinski (201-F-95) responded with 15 points for Poland. Filip Pruefer (208-C-96) and Damian Jeszke (200-F-95) had 10 points each in defeat.

Lithuania U16: Aidas Kavaliauskas 15+13 assists, Paulius Zalys 12, Denas Bartkus 12
Poland U16: Mikolaj Witlinski 15, Filip Pruefer 10, Damian Jeszke 10


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  PORTUGAL   


LPB and Proliga schedules - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
The LPB and Proliga schedules were set this week.

In the LPB Day 1, in October 15th, Champions Porto will receive Academica and runners up Benfica will travel to Barreiro, to meet Barreirense, who occupied the place of CB Penafiel. The complete schedule will be:

Porto - Academica
Ovarense - Barcelos
CAB Madeira -Vitoria Guimaraes
Barreirense -SL Benfica
Sampaense -Lusitania Acores
Casino Figueira -Terceira Basket

In Proliga, the teams promoted from CNB1 will receive CD Povoa (Oliveirense) and Maia Basket (Gaeirense). Illiabum, who descended from LPB, will be back on Proligas court at home, against Angra Basket. The complete schedule:

Fisica de Torres -Electrico
Oliveirense -Povoa
Alges -Galitos
Gaeirense -Maia Basket
Illiabum -Angra Basket
Sangalhos -Guifoes



Check complete schedules and team's locations here.



U16: Portugal rally past Estonia in Strumica - by Eurobasket News
Portugal U16 - Estonia U16 73:49

Portugal will play for the ninth place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They held off Estonia in classification round tonight. Portugal will take on Belgium on Sunday. Estonia will wrap up their campaign against Finland. Isaias Insaly (197-F/C-95) stepped up with 25 points and 8 rebounds to pace the winners.
Portugal held their opponents to 10 points in the opening quarter posting an 8-point lead. Portugal maintained the lead throughout the second period. They recorded a 38:25 halftime advantage. Portugal did not slow down in the third quarter. They outgunned Estonia for a 60:40 lead with ten minutes remaining. Estonia never recovered as Portugal cruised to the victory at the end. Pedro Marques (181-PG-95) notched 18 points, while Carlos Dias (186-F-95) added 10 points for the winners. Estonia answered with 10 points from Saimon Sutt (195-G/F-95). Sten Olmre (189-G-95) had 9 points in defeat.

Portugal U16: Isaias Insaly 25, Pedro Marques 18, Carlos Dias 10
Estonia U16: Saimon Sutt 10, Sten Olmre 9


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  PUERTO RICO   


BSN 2011 Awards - by Eric de la Cruz
Here is a list, in chronological order, of the BSN Awards for the 2011 season as voted by the specialized press, media personnel and coaches and owners:

Denis Clemente (185-PG-86, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Kansas St.) won almost unanimously the Rookie of the Year award.

Shavlik Randolph (208-F-83, college: Duke) won Import Player of the Year, followed closely by Mike Harris (198-F-83, college: Rice).

Kleon Penn (211-C-86, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: McNeese St.) won Defensive Player of the year, with Javier Mojica (190-G-84, agency: Alti Sport, college: Cent.Conn.St.) coming in a distant second and Richard Chaney (196-G-84, college: Troy) a more distant third.

Ricky Sanchez (212-C/F-87) won the Most Improved Player award by a landslide, with Johwen Villegas (193-G-85, college: FIU), who
had a breakout season, coming in a distant second.

Nelson Colon won Coach of the Year and Edwin Mundo won GM/Owner of the Year for Atleticos de San German.

Guillermo Diaz (188-G-85, college: Miami, FL) won Finals MVP.

The All Defensive team was named with Kleon Penn, Ricky Sanchez, Carmelo Antrone Lee (201-F-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Long Beach St.), Richard Chaney and Javier Mojica.

Christian Dalmau (194-G-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Daytona Beach CC) won his second consecutive MVP, followed by Peter John Ramos (222-C-85) and Angel Daniel Vasallo.



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  ROMANIA   


Romania University Game won the friendly game over Austria - by Eurobasket News
Austria-Romania University Game 67:72

Romania University Game won the friendly game over Austria in Cyprus. The team will play two more games against Cyprus before leaving for the World University Games. Austria will meet Cyprus on Saturday.
Austria opened the game with 19:18 but could not keep the score for good. Romania bounced back with 20-13 in the second period and enjoyed 38:33 at the halftime. The teams exchanged the victories in the second half as Romania had 5-point win at the end.
Andrei Mandache (190-G-87, agency: Global Sports Plaza) top-scored for the winners with 22 points to lead the charge. Vlad Moldoveanu (205-F-88, agency: Interperformances, college: American) nailed 16, while Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency: Interperformances) netted 14. Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) and Schreiner posted 18 points in the losing effort, while Richard Poiger (201-F-87) had 9. Davor Lamesic (205-F-83, agency: Interperformances) nailed 8, whilst Anton Maresch (192-G-91) produced 6.

Austria: Rasid Mahalbasic 18, Schreiner 18, Richard Poiger 9, Davor Lamesic 8, Anton Maresch 6
Romania: Andrei Mandache 22, Vlad Moldoveanu 16, Titus Nicoara 14


U16: Trailing in the first period, Hungary outscored Romania - by Eurobasket News
Hungary U16-Romania U16 69:62

Hungary will face Armenia for the 5th place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Tonight Hungarian squad edged Romania 69:62 at the Classification Round for 5-8 places in Division B. Romania meanwhile will take on Holland in the game for 7-8 places.
Romania grabbed the early lead in the game and reached 19:8 as Pogacean closed the first period. Hungary however bounced back in the second period to reduce to 2 points at the halftime. Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) tied the game at 33:33, while Hungary won the third frame 22-7. No matter how hard Romania tied to recover, they could not win the game. Vlad Cobzaru (203-C-95) scored the last three points in the game for the final result.
Gyorgy Goloman stepped up with 13 points and Eric Vrana (189-G-95) as well as Zoltan Perl (189-G-95) posted 12 each. Peter Papp (191-G/F-95) ended up with 10 points in the winning effort. Vlad Cobzaru replied with 22 points and 11 boards in defeat and Ovidiu Stochici (174-PG-95) notched 10.

Hungary U16: Gyorgy Goloman 13, Eric Vrana 12, Zoltan Perl 12, Peter Papp 10
Romania U16: Vlad Cobzaru 22+11 rebs, Ovidiu Stochici 10


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  RUSSIA   


Italy outscored Kirilenko-less Russia - by Eurobasket News
Russia NT-Italy NT 67:71

Italy outscored Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81)-less Russia in Day 2 of the International Tournament in Cyprus. Italy tied both records at 1-1 after 71:67 in Nicosia.
Russia started the game with 21-19 and did not mind the absence of NBA star Andrei Kirilenko. Moreover the team added 16-13 in the second frame for 37:32 at the halftime. The second half however belonged to the Italian team. Led by Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) and Stefano Mancinelli (203-F-83), Italy produced 17-14 in the third period and reduced to 2 points entering the last stanza. Another 22-16 in the final period brought the victory for the Italian squad.
Andrea Bargnani and Stefano Mancinelli recorded 43 points to combine for the winners. Luca Vitali (201-G-86) scored 9, while Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) added 8. Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: RIZO) bounced back with 15 points, while Sergey Monya (203-F-83) and Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) had 12 each.
In Day 3 Russia will play against Greece in the second game of the day. Italy and Poland will close the tournament in the last game of the campaign.

Russia NT: Timofey Mozgov 15, Sergey Monya 12, Vitaly Fridzon 12
Italy NT: Andrea Bargnani 23, Stefano Mancinelli 20, Luca Vitali 9, Marco Belinelli 8


U16: Russia narrowly defeat Turkey in Pardubice - by Eurobasket News
Russia U16 - Turkey U16 73:71

Russia will play for the fifth place at the U16 European Championship in Czech Republic. They nipped Turkey tonight to set up the clash versus Latvia tomorrow. Pavel Sizov (198-F-95) came up with 31 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort. Turkey will now take on Germany.
Turkey unloaded 29 points in the opening quarter to take an 8-point lead. Russia stopped the rot in the second term cutting the deficit to four points at the interval 41:45. Russia got closer in the third term. They limited Turkey to 12 points in the period to trim the distance to just a single point with ten minutes remaining 56:57. Adnan Mustafa (188-G-95) drained back-to-back triples to restore a 7-point lead for Turkey early in the final period. But Russia responded with a 10:2 run to surge ahead 70:69. Metecan Birsen (203-F/G-95) returned the lead to Turkey however Vasily Martynov (185-PG-95) and Alexander Martynov (195-G-95) answered with three points to seal the win for Russia. Vasily Martynov accounted for 15 points in the victory. Artem Sokolov (207-C-95) had 8 points for Russia. Metecan Birsen responded with 14 points and 16 boards for Turkey. Adnan Mustafa netted 11 points in defeat.

Russia U16: Pavel Sizov 31, Vasily Martynov 15, Artem Sokolov 8
Turkey U16: Metecan Birsen 14+16 boards, Adnan Mustafa 11


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  SERBIA   


Novica Velickovic and Mile Ilic miss the trip to Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) and Mile Ilic (215-C-84, agency: Beo Basket) miss the trip to Slovenia as the national team will participate at the Adecco Cup that will start this weekend in Ljubljana.
Mile Ilic was cut from the team after Dusan Ivkovic (agency: Beo Basket ) left Boban Marjanovic (222-C-88, agency: Beo Basket) in the team. Ilic was drafted by New Jersey Nets (NBA,2rd (43)) and played for the team in pre-season.
In 2009-2010 signed at Vujic Metalac Valjevo (Serbia-A League, starting five) and in 16 games averaged 10.7ppg, Reb-5 (6.9rpg), 1.3apg, Blocks-5 (1.0bpg), FGP: 55.5%, 3PT-3 (50.0%), FT: 58.8%. In 2010-2011 started for FMP Zeleznik Beograd (Serbia-A League, starting five) and in 42 games had 10.7ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.3apg, Blocks-2 (1.2bpg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 74.8%.
Novica Velickovic meanwhile miss the trip to Slovenia as he is still recovering from injury. He will join the team later for Lithuania. In 2009-2010 the Serbian player moved to MMC Real Madrid (Spain-ACB, starting five) and in Euroleague showed 7.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 41.7%, FT: 57.6%. In Spanish League after 42 games his stats read 9.9ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 70.0%. In
2010-2011 for Real Madrid (Spain-ACB) in Euroleague he had only3.4ppg, 2.8rpg, while in Spanish League showed 3.0ppg, 2.6rpg. In 2011 he extended the contract with Real Madrid (Spain-ACB) for another 2 years.


U16: Serbia beat Italy to claim 9th place in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U16 - Italy U16 83:75

Serbia wrapped up their U16 European Championship campaign with win. They held off Italy to clinch the ninth position. Dusan Ristic (207-C/F-95) stepped up with 24 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort.
Serbia led by just two points at the first break 19:17. Serbia mounted the pressure in the second period. They stretched the margin to as many as 11 points at the interval 43:32. The Balkan team kept their opponents at distance throughout the third frame. Serbia posted a 62:49 lead with one quarter remaining. The Azzurri went on a desperate comeback rally in the fourth period. They erupted for 26 points but still came up short at the end. Nikola Rebic (186-PG-95) provided 19 points, while Marko Guduric (193-G-95) netted 13 points in the win. Simone Fontecchio (197-F-95) answered with 25 points for Italy. Lorenzo Baldasso (190-G-95) delivered 10 points in the loss.

Serbia U16: Dusan Ristic 24+11 boards, Nikola Rebic 19, Marko Guduric 13
Italy U16: Simone Fontecchio 25, Lorenzo Baldasso 10


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  SLOVAKIA   


U16: Austria and Slovak Republic finish European Championship 2011 - by Eurobasket News
Austria U16-Slovak Republic U16 50:47

Austria and Slovak Republic finish European Championship 2011 in Division B as both teams ended up on the last spots in Strumica. Austria needed 50:47 in the last game to finish on the 21st spot. Slovak Republic lost the sixth game and finished on the last position.
The squads nailed 15 points each in the opening frame, but Austria pushed the tempo in the second one and won 15-6. Hlivak closed the half at 30:21 for the Austrian side and Ogunsipe increased to 35:24. Slovak Republic however erupted with an 11-0 run for 35:35 and won the period 22-14. Boris Belavy (197-F-95) tied the game at 47:47 and Florian Pelc (168-PG-95) made two free throws for 2-point lead with 2 minutes to go. The later made another one to set up the final score in the game.
Georg Wolf (186-G-95) top-scored for the winners with 12 points, while Florian Pelc and Marko Soldo (190-G-95) netted 8 each. Matej Baluch (192-F-95) ended up with 14 points in defeat, whilst Boris Belavy collected 12 points and 10 boards.

Austria U16: Georg Wolf 12, Florian Pelc 8, Marko Soldo 8
Slovak Republic U16: Matej Baluch 14, Boris Belavy 12+10 rebs



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  SLOVENIA   


Bozidar Maljkovic add Luka Rupnik for Adecco Cup - by Eurobasket News
Bozidar Maljkovic (agency: Interperformances ) add Luka Rupnik (184-PG-93) for Adecco Cup that will start this weekend in Ljubljana. The 18-year old Point Guard recently was the best player for the team at the European Championships U18 in Wroclaw.
Luka Rupnik participated also at the Belgrade International Junior Tournament -11, Eurobasket.com Slovenian League All-Newcomers Team -11, Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 Honorable Mention -11. At the European Championships U18 in Wroclaw (Poland) after 7 games he became the fifth top-scorer with 17.3ppg, 4.1rpg, Assists-1 (5.7apg), 1.9spg, FGP: 38.7%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 76.0%.
In 2009-2010 Luka Rupnik joined Geoplin Slovan Ljubljana (Telemach League) and in 8 games averaged 2.0ppg, 1.0apg. In 2010-2011 for Geoplin Slovan Ljubljana (Telemach League, starting five) he played in 27 games and showed 6.0ppg, 1.4rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 77.8%. He played also at junior team and at Union Olimpija Ljubljana junior team.
Slovenia wil start Adecco Cup EX-YU 2011 tomorrow against Montenegro. Tonight the capital will host FYR Macedonia versus Bosni and Herzegovina in the opener and Croatia-Montenegro in the second game.

U16: Slovenia joined England for Division A next year - by Eurobasket News
Bosnia and Herzegovina U16-Slovenia U16 53:74

Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia struggled for the second ticket to Division A in 2012. Slovenia won the game 74:53 and advanced to the Final game.
Both teams knew the importance of the game and were noticed that England needed overtime to beat Israel in another Semifinal. Slovenia started the game with 19:13 after the first period and produced the same result in the second quarter. Nejc Zupan (203-PG-96) scored for 47:37 and Ritlop increased to 54:41. Nejc Zupan also closed the third period at 59:41 when it became clear about the winner. Adi Zahiragic (185-PG-95) and Matic Rebec (179-PG-95) exchanged for 64:43. Zatezic nailed three for 70:48, while Maslac brought 70:50 on the board. Slovenia won the last period 15-12 and advanced to the Final.
Nejc Zupan led the way with 18 points and Nicolic nailed 17. Matic Rebec posted 13, while Luka Kokol (191-G-95) notched 10. Adi Zahiragic ended up with 16 points in defeat and Nedim Buza (201-F-95) posted 9.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Adi Zahiragic 16, Nedim Buza 9
Slovenia U16: Nejc Zupan 18, Nicolic 17, Matic Rebec 13, Luka Kokol 10


Olimpija extends Markota - by Zeljko Zule
Union Olimpija reached a new agreement with Croatian Damir Markota (210-C/F-85) to keep him in the team next season. Markota joined Slovenian runner-up last season, averaging 8.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 15 Euroleague games,7.7 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 27 Adriatic League games and 6.6 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 20 Slovenian Telemach League games.
Markota has also played for Cibona and Sanac Karlovac in Croatia, Zalgiris in Lithuania, Spartak St.Petersburg in Russia, Milwaukee in the NBA and Tulsa in the D-League. Markota has also been a member of the Croatian national team. He won three Croatian League titles with Cibona in 2002, 2004 and 2006. Markota also lifted three trophies - Lithuanian League, Baltic League and Lithuanian Cup - with Zalgiris in 2008.



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  SOUTH KOREA   


William Jones Cup. South Korea cruise past Malaysia - by Eurobasket News
South Korea - Malaysia 110:50

South Korea victoriously opened their William Jones Cup campaign. They fired past Malaysia on the first day of action in New Taipei City. Five players scored in double digits for South Korea. Kang Byung-Hyun (193-G/F-85) scored 17 points to lead the effort.
South Korea eased to a comfortable lead early in the encounter. They posted a 26:7 lead after ten minutes. More to come in the second term. South Korea limited their opponents to just two points in the second quarter to establish a 53:9 halftime lead. South Korea breezed to the victory afterwards. Cho Sung-Min (189-F-83) produced 16 points, while Lee Jung-Suk (184-G-82) netted 11 points, issued 6 assists and pulled down 6 rebounds in the victory. Li Wei Chee (186-F-85) responded with 12 points for Malaysia. Ban Sin Ooi (180-G/F-83) and Yeo Seng John Ng (190-F-81) had 7 points each in the loss.

South Korea: Stevenson Cameron (200-F-75, agency: Alti Sport, college: Richmond) 17, Kang Byung-Hyun 17, Cho Sung-Min 16
Malaysia: Li Wei Chee 12, Ban Sin Ooi 7, Yeo Seng John Ng 7


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  SPAIN   


Marc Blanch pens deal with Menorca - by Eurobasket News
Marc Blanch (195-F-82) pens deal with Menorca for 2011/2012 season. The Spanish Forward moves from Asefa Estudiantes Madrid.
Over the last few years he played for Basquetinca.com Mallorca (LEB Gold, starting five) and averaged 7.7ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 87.0%. In 2008-2009 moved to Basquet Mallorca (LEB Gold, starting five) and had 14.1ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.7apg, Steals-1 (2.5spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 83.7%. In 2009-2010 for Basquet Mallorca (LEB Gold, starting five) his stats read 14.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.7apg, Steals-3 (2.2spg), FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 89.3%. The last season Marc Blanch was with Asefa Estudiantes Madrid (ACB) and in EuroCup averaged 4.0ppg, while in Spanish League showed 3.0ppg.
He recorded 9 points as Estudiantes registered the second consecutive EuroCup Last 16 stage win. They overcame Galatasaray in Istanbul to improve at 2-0 record in Group K. The hosts stayed hopeful till the final minutes but Granger and Daniel Clark scored five points in a row late in regulation and the visitors ran away for good in this one. Marc Blanch added also 3 rebounds to his 9 points and made 3/6 three-pointers.


Carleton Scott and Pedro Robles llegan sign with Caceres - by Eurobasket News
Carleton Scott (200-F-88) and Pedro Robles (192-G-77) sign with Caceres for the next season.
Carleton Scott is an American Forward who started his career in 2007-2008 for Notre Dame (NCAA). In his last season there he averaged 11.2ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.1apg, 1.9bpg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 88.9%. He reached NIT Final Four -09, Big East Tournament Semifinals -10, 11 and became Big East Regular Season Runner-Up -11.
Pedro Robles played the majority of his career for Murcia. In 2009-2010 for the team he averaged high 7.7ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 86.5%. Last season Pedro improved to 8.6ppg, 1.2rpg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT-3 (92.5%) and became Spanish LEB Gold Champion -11. Pedro recorded 21 points at the Regular Season Round 14 when CB Murcia beat his new team Caceres 87-72. CB Murcia led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Caceres 2016 to just 5 points in fourth quarter. American forward Taylor Coppenrath orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds. Pedro Robles made 5/6 three-pointers to record his points.


Unicaja extends Garbajosa, lands Darden - by Eurobasket News
Unicaja reached a new agreement with power forward Jorge Garbajosa (205-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances) to keep him in the team next season. Garbajosa re-joined Unicaja midway through last season, averaging 7.2 points and 4.2 rebounds in 11 Spanish League games. He had started the 2010-11 season with Real Madrid and averaged 5.4 points in 11 Turkish Airlines Euroleague games before moving back to Malaga. Garbajosa led the club to its glory days in his previous two years in Unicaja. He simply took the club to the highest level, leading Unicaja to its only domestic titles so far, the 2005 Spanish King's Cup and the 2006 Spanish League crown, earning finals MVP in both events. Garbajosa had a stellar Euroleague career, helping Benetton Treviso reach the title game in 2003, when he was an All-Euroleague first team selection. In his four years with Benetton, Garbajosa also won back-to-back Italian League titles in 2002 and 2003 and lifted the Italian Cup trophy in 2004. He has also played for Tau Ceramica in Spain, Toronto in the NBA and BC Khimki in Russia. He won the 1996 Saporta Cup and the 1999 Spanish King's Cup with Tau and reached the Eurocup and the Russian League finals with Khimki in 2009. Garbajosa has also been a regular member of the Spanish national team. He won the gold medal at the 2006 World Championships and four EuroBasket medals - gold in 2009, bronze in 2001 and silvers in 2003 and 2007. He also has a silver medal from the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China. He ranks seventh in the Euroleague's all-time steals list (211) and is 10th in rebounds (777).

Unicaja added more depth to its roster by inking small forward Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) to a one-year deal, the club announced Friday. Unicaja keeps an option to extend his contract until the end of the 2012-13 season. Darden arrives from Sluc Nancy, to which he helped to win the French League title last season. he averaged 17 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.9 steals in 37 French League games last season. Darden has also played for Strasbourg in France, Melbourne South Dragons in Australia, Spirou Charleroi and Passe Partout Basket Groot Leuven in Belgium and Erdemirspor Belediyesi in Turkey since finishing his college career at Niagara University (NCAA). He helped Melbourne to win the Australian League title in 2009 and also lifted the Belgian League trophy with Spirou in 2008. Darden will make his Turkish Airlines Euroleague debut with Unicaja next season.

Courtesy of Euroleague

U16: Croatia tame Spain, enter Final in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U16 - Spain U16 64:60

Croatia became the first U16 European Championship finalists. They held off Spain in a thrilling semifinal clash in Pardubice tonight. Mario Hezonja (200-F-95) scored 24 points and handed out 5 assists to lead the winners.
The lead changed hands throughout close first quarter. Jelenek gave Croatia a 15:13 lead after ten minutes. Spain used a 9:0 run midway through the second period to take a 24:19 lead. Nevertheless Croatia rebounded and posted a 32:28 halftime advantage. Arapovic, Paolo Marinelli (184-G-95) and Mario Hezonja made it 38:28 for the Croats early in the third term. Spain cut the distance to 7 points with ten minutes remaining 40:47. Ventura and Marin dragged the Spanish team within three points 60:63 with 16 seconds remaining. Gabric answered with one free throw, while Martin and Ventura missed three-pointers as Croatia ran away with victory. Paolo Marinelli nailed 13 points, while Karlo Zganec (203-C-95) had 11 points and 11 rebounds for Croatia. Ilimane Diop (210-C-95) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds for Spain. Javier De La Blanca (197-F-95) produced 12 points in the loss.

Croatia U16: Mario Hezonja 24, Paolo Marinelli 13, Karlo Zganec 11+11 boards
Spain U16: Ilimane Diop 16, Javier De La Blanca 12


Ecuador - by Bayo Arigbon
Whats up yall I know Ive been gone for a while but I only blog abroad, its funner that way. All my entries are coming from the beautiful country of Ecuador. Quevedo to be exact. Ive been here for about 3 days, and I am enjoying every second of it. I am blessed to be a part of a new team that joined the FEB league here in Ecuador. Quevedo Rangers. I am soooo thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this new franchise. We played our first game short handed, we are still waiting on the arrival of Marcus Sikes (203-F-84, college: Cincinnati). I honestly believe if we had him , he would have been exactly what we needed to get the win. Aside from that Im just getting use to how things are down here. The humid tropical climate, and things you see here that arent common in the USA. The other day I saw a few lizards, and even a toad! Not only that but I got to see a banana tree! Im just soaking everything in and trying to learn more Spanish. By the time I leave I want to be fluent! Check out www.hoopdreamdiaries.tumblr.com for a video I created that shows the city and where I reside. Well thats it for now thanks for reading and stay tuned!

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  SWEDEN   


U16: Hakanson leads Sweden over Georgia - by Eurobasket News
Georgia U16-Sweden U16 53:84

Sweden won the game over Georgia at the Classification Round for 13-16 places at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Scandinavian team needed 84:53 to play for the 13th place tomorrow.
The teams were tied twice in the first period before Sweden grabbed 20:15 at the end of the frame. Bergang increased to 35:24 and Johansson brought 48:34. Sweden added 21-13 in the second period as Johansson closed the half at 41:28. The third quarter was offensive in the game as Sweden nailed 30 points for the bigger lead. They won the last period 13-7 to celebrate the victory at the end.
Ludvig Hakanson (187-PG-96) paced all the winners with 17 points, while Filip Kovacek (180-PG-95) notched 14. Dzenis Sogolj (202-F-95) netted 13 and Valter Lindstrom (180-PG-95) scored 9. Beka Darakhvelidze (186-F-95) ended up with 21 points in the losing effort and Archili Puluzashvili (200-C-95) added 15.

Georgia U16: Beka Darakhvelidze 21, Archili Puluzashvili 15
Sweden U16: Ludvig Hakanson 17, Filip Kovacek 14, Dzenis Sogolj 13, Valter Lindstrom 9


USA Select nip Sweden in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
USA Select - Sweden 78:77

USA Select team opened Tallinn International friendly tournament with victory. They narrowly defeated Sweden in the opener. Brandon Triche (6'4''-G-91) stepped up with 17 points to pace the effort.
USA Select eked out a 21:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Sweden pulled in front in the second period. They posted a 38:32 halftime advantage. But the North American team shifted the gear in the third quarter. They unleashed 29 points to ensure cut the deficit to just two points with one quarter remaining. Sweden were up by a single point 77:76 with just seconds left in regulation before USA Select team fired a decisive shot and sealed the victory at the end. Rodney McGruder (6'4''-G-91) and Matt Gatens (6'5''-G-89) stepped up with 10 points each for the winners. Mike Bruesewitz (6'6''-F) had 9 points in the victory. Christian Maraker (6'9''-F-82, college: Pacific) responded with game-high 24 points for Sweden. Anton Gaddefors (6'7''-F-89) provided 15 points in defeat.

USA Select: Brandon Triche 17, Rodney McGruder 10, Matt Gatens 10
Sweden: Christian Maraker 24, Anton Gaddefors 15


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  SWITZERLAND   


U16: Switzerland outscored Luxembourg at the Classification Round for 13-16 places - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland U16-Luxembourg U16 91:81

Switzerland outscored Luxembourg at the Classification Round for 13-16 places at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Swiss team needed 91:81 to play for the 13th place tomorrow against Sweden. Luxembourg meanwhile will face Georgia for the 15th place.
Switzerland started the game with 27:18 and never looked behind. The opponents won the second period 18-15 as Wirtz reduced to 42:36 at the halftime. In the third quarter Switzerland needed 30-15 for 21 points lead after three quarters. Le Sann nailed three for 75:57 and his team managed to deliver the victory.
Mathias Tolusso (186-G-95) led the way with 22 points and Mario Raemy (180-G-95) nailed 19. Randon Thomas Grun (194-G/F-95)inger (190-F-95) notched 14, while Le Sann scored 11. Thomas Grun erupted with 29 points in the losing effort and Philippe Gutenkauf (181-PG-95) netted 9.

Switzerland U16: Mathias Tolusso 22, Mario Raemy 19, Randon Thomas Gruninger 14, Le Sann 11
Luxembourg U16: Thomas Grun 29, Philippe Gutenkauf 9



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  TAIWAN   


William Jones Cup. Taiwan account for Japan - by Eurobasket News
Taiwan - Japan 99:72

Taiwan recorded the first win at the William Jones Cup. The hosts thrashed Japan in the opener. Creighton Douglas (195-F-85) stepped up with 18 points to pace the effort.
Taiwan set the tone early. They outgunned Japan 21:13 in the opening ten minutes. Taiwan boosted the margin to 12 points at the interval 43:31. Taiwan did not slow down in the third quarter. The home team fired 33 points and arrived at the final intermission up by as many as 22 points. Japan could not pick up the tempo and suffered a heavy defeat at the end. Wen-Ting Tseng (202-C/F-84) contributed 15 points for Taiwan. Lu Cheng-Ju (194-F-86) had 12 points in the victory. Keijuro Matsui (188-G-85, college: Columbia) responded with 13 points for Japan. Yuta Watanabe (195-G-94) knocked down 12 points in the loss.

Taiwan: Creighton Douglas 18, Wen-Ting Tseng 15, Lu Cheng-Ju 12
Japan: Keijuro Matsui 13, Yuta Watanabe 12, Sean Hinkley (197-F-91) 11


Day 1: Philippines upset two-time defending champ Iran - by Chris Wang
Led by naturalized Marcus Douthit, who had 24 points and 11 rebounds, Philippines upset two-time defending champion Iran Saturday in the opening day of the 2011 William Jones Cup invitational tournament in Taipei.

Philippines NT was more prepared against Iran, who came to Taipei without one of its key players Samad Nikkhah. According to Iranian head coach Veselin Matic, Hamed Ehadadi did not practice much with the team before arriving in Taiwan.

In the other game, Taiwan NT welcomed back Chen Hsin-an, who haven't been playing for Taiwan for years, and defeated a young and inexperienced Japan 99-72.

Philippines 73-59 Iran
PHI: M. Douthit 24+11, A.M. Barroca 13+7
IRN: H. Ehadadi 25+9, M. Kamrani 18

Taiwan 99-72 Japan
TWN: D. Creighton 18, Tseng Wen-ting 15, Lu Cheng-ju 12
JPN: Keijuro Matsui 13, Yuta Watanabe 12

Korea 110-50 Malaysia
KOR: Kang Byung-hyun 17, Moon Tae-jong 17, Cho Sung-min 16, Ha Seung-jin 10+9
MY: Li Wei Chee 12

Joran 91-72 UAE
JOR: R. Wright 15, Z.A. Abbas 14, A.J. Zaghab 12+8
UAE: O. Alameri 19

Standings:
Jordan 1-0
Korea 1-0
Philippines 1-0
Taiwan 1-0
Iran 0-1
Japan 0-1
Malaysia 0-1
UAE 0-1


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  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO   


Lamont on ABA Conference 1st team! - by Albert-Lee Young
T&T 6-10 power forward Devougn Lamont was chosen on the Pacific North Conference 1st Team Honors Roll.

Lamont plays for the San Francisco Rumble in the American Basketball Association (ABA) professional league.

In 2010-11 season, he guided the 3-time defending conference champions San Francisco Rumble, who almost won it all beating 2 nationally ranked teams the Sacramento Heatwave and the East Bay Pit Bulls, to the conference finals.

However according to coach Fulton Mitchell it wasnt meant to be as the crown was passed to a new champion.

The Pacific North Conference finished the season with over 130 games played by it member teams. The conference saw the crowning of a new champion, the Bay Area Matrix, with an impressive win over 3-time defending conference champions, the San Francisco Rumble.

There was a tremendous amount of talent in our conference again this season, said Conference Chair, Damone Hale, Esq. I am sure there are good arguments for other players to be highlighted, but you only have so many awards to give. The players awarded are absolutely deserving of this recognition.

Lamont was amongst the top six players named in the conference 1st team!


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  TURKEY   


U16: Russia narrowly defeat Turkey in Pardubice - by Eurobasket News
Russia U16 - Turkey U16 73:71

Russia will play for the fifth place at the U16 European Championship in Czech Republic. They nipped Turkey tonight to set up the clash versus Latvia tomorrow. Pavel Sizov (198-F-95) came up with 31 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort. Turkey will now take on Germany.
Turkey unloaded 29 points in the opening quarter to take an 8-point lead. Russia stopped the rot in the second term cutting the deficit to four points at the interval 41:45. Russia got closer in the third term. They limited Turkey to 12 points in the period to trim the distance to just a single point with ten minutes remaining 56:57. Adnan Mustafa (188-G-95) drained back-to-back triples to restore a 7-point lead for Turkey early in the final period. But Russia responded with a 10:2 run to surge ahead 70:69. Metecan Birsen (203-F/G-95) returned the lead to Turkey however Vasily Martynov (185-PG-95) and Alexander Martynov (195-G-95) answered with three points to seal the win for Russia. Vasily Martynov accounted for 15 points in the victory. Artem Sokolov (207-C-95) had 8 points for Russia. Metecan Birsen responded with 14 points and 16 boards for Turkey. Adnan Mustafa netted 11 points in defeat.

Russia U16: Pavel Sizov 31, Vasily Martynov 15, Artem Sokolov 8
Turkey U16: Metecan Birsen 14+16 boards, Adnan Mustafa 11


Fenerbahce Ulker in talks with Mehmet Okur - by Pervin Elgin
The forward could land in Turkey until lockout ends

According to MixBasket, Fenerbahce Istanbul is in talks with Mehmet Okur for the coming season. The two parts are negotiating on a one-year deal with NBA out when the lockout ends. Okur has played 617 games in his NBA career averaging 13.7ppg and 7.1rpg. About Fenerbahce, it is still not known the future of James Gist. The player was signed by Turkish champions in the offseason but he falied an anti-doping test due to cannabis while he was playing for Partizan Belgrade. Gist might stay with Fenerbahce and returns to action after the stop imposed by FIBA.

Source: Sportando.net

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  UKRAINE   


Morris Almond moves to Cherkasy - by Eurobasket News
Cherkasy confirmed the signing of Morris Almond (198-F-85, college: Rice). The 26-year-old forward spent the last season in Italy. He played for Scavolini Spar Pesaro in SeriaA. Morris Almond averaged 8.5 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game. Previously the forward had stints in Spain, D-League and NBA. Morris Almond was named All-C-USA Player of the Year in 2007 while playing for the Rice University. He was drafted by the Utah Jazz in the first round in 2007.


U16: Greece clinch 11th place in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Greece U16 - Ukraine U16 67:65

Greece narrowly defeated Ukraine in the final game of the U16 European Championship for both teams. Georgios Diamantakos (210-C-95) and Michail Liapis (188-G-95) scored 12 points each as the Hellenes claimed the 11th overall position at the tournament. Ukraine finished 12th after the loss.
Greece got to a confident start. They posted an 18:10 lead ten minutes into the game. Ukraine stepped up offensively in the second term. They knocked down 22 points to narrow the deficit at two points at the interval 32:34. Ukraine eventually pulled ahead in the third quarter. Yevgen Sakhniuk (200-F/C-95) made it 48:47 at the final break. The lead changed hands throughout the final quarter. Ukraine grabbed 62:56 lead with under two minutes remaining but Greece reacted with an 11:0 run to made it 67:62 late in regulation. Ukraine drained a triple but Ukraine ran out of time to save the game. Dimitrios Stamatis (188-G-96) nailed 11 points, while Papadionysioy had 9 points in the victory. Anton Dziuba (201-F-95) and Yevgen Sakhniuk responded with 17 points apiece for Ukraine. Igor Boyarkin (180-PG-95) netted 7 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, issued 5 assists and made 4 steals in defeat.

Greece U16: Georgios Diamantakos 12, Michail Liapis 12, Dimitrios Stamatis 11
Ukraine U16: Anton Dziuba 17, Yevgen Sakhniuk 17


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  UNITED ARAB EMIRATES   


William Jones Cup. Jordan thrash UAE - by Eurobasket News
Jordan - UAE 91:72

Jordan stormed past UAE to post the opening win at the William Jones Cup. Rasheim Wright (194-G-81, college: District of Col.) stepped up with 15 points to pace Tab Baldwin team.
The teams stayed close throughout the first half. Jordan earned an 18:14 lead ten minutes into the game. They maintained the lead posting a 36:29 halftime advantage. But Jordan stepped on the gas in the third quarter. They fired 31 points to clear off to a 17-point distance at the final break. UAE never recovered as Jordan rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Abbas Zaid (203-F-83) accounted for 14 points, while Ali Zaghab (205-F/C-88) stepped up with 12 points for the winners. Omar Khalid (190-F-91) responded with 19 points for UAE. Husain Ahmed (180-G-89), Mohamed Al Braiki (190-G-91), Ibrahim Ahmad (175-G-79) and Rashed Al Zaabi (188-G-88) all scored 9 points each in the loss.

Jordan: Rasheim Wright 15, Abbas Zaid 14, Ali Zaghab 12
UAE: Omar Khalid 19, Ibrahim Ahmad 9


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


U16: England reached Division A in the eight year history - by Eurobasket News
England U16-Israel U16 94:84 OT

England Under 16 Men's team advanced to Division A for 2012 season. Simon Fishers team needed overtime to beat Israel in the semi finals of the European Championship B Division in Strumica. England reached Division A in the eight year history of the two-tier European Championship.
Before to write something about this game, it would be fait to send both teams to Division A. The battle that they showed tonight had everything: overtime, triple-double, intrigue, tears etc. England started with 22:7 in the opening period, while Israel replied with 19-11 in the second frame. Moreover the latter won the third and the last quarter to tie the game after four quarters. Idan Zalmanson (205-F-95) sent the teams to overtime at 78:78, but England was too good in it.
Luke Nelson (185-PG-95) erupted with 27 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists, while Morayoninuoluwa Soluade (194-G-95) nailed 17. Kingsley Okoroh (212-C-95) collected 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Nicholas Bohling (186-G-95) posted 11. Idan Zalmanson finished the game with 24 points, while Naor Sharon (191-PG-95) recorded a triple-double with 20 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. Or Cahal (190-F-95) followed them with 15 points.

England U16: Luke Nelson 27+7 rebs+6 asts, Morayoninuoluwa Soluade 17, Kingsley Okoroh 12+12 rebs, Nicholas Bohling 11
Israel U16: Idan Zalmanson 24, Naor Sharon 20+15 rebs+10 asts, Or Cahal 15


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  WILLIAM JONES CUP   


Day 1 in New Taipei City - by Eurobasket News
Jordan - UAE 91:72
Jordan stormed past UAE to post the opening win at the William Jones Cup. Rasheim Wright (194-G-81, college: District of Col.) stepped up with 15 points to pace Tab Baldwin team.
The teams stayed close throughout the first half. Jordan earned an 18:14 lead ten minutes into the game. They maintained the lead posting a 36:29 halftime advantage. But Jordan stepped on the gas in the third quarter. They fired 31 points to clear off to a 17-point distance at the final break. UAE never recovered as Jordan rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Abbas Zaid (203-F-83) accounted for 14 points, while Ali Zaghab (205-F/C-88) stepped up with 12 points for the winners. Omar Khalid (190-F-91) responded with 19 points for UAE. Husain Ahmed (180-G-89), Mohamed Al Braiki (190-G-91), Ibrahim Ahmad (175-G-79) and Rashed Al Zaabi (188-G-88) all scored 9 points each in the loss.

Jordan: Rasheim Wright 15, Abbas Zaid 14, Ali Zaghab 12
UAE: Omar Khalid 19, Ibrahim Ahmad 9

South Korea - Malaysia 110:50
South Korea victoriously opened their William Jones Cup campaign. They fired past Malaysia on the first day of action in New Taipei City. Five players scored in double digits for South Korea. Kang Byung-Hyun (193-G/F-85) scored 17 points to lead the effort.
South Korea eased to a comfortable lead early in the encounter. They posted a 26:7 lead after ten minutes. More to come in the second term. South Korea limited their opponents to just two points in the second quarter to establish a 53:9 halftime lead. South Korea breezed to the victory afterwards. Cho Sung-Min (189-F-83) produced 16 points, while Lee Jung-Suk netted 11 points, issued 6 assists and pulled down 6 rebounds in the victory. Li Wei Chee (186-F-85) responded with 12 points for Malaysia. Ban Sin Ooi (180-G/F-83) and Yeo Seng John Ng (190-F-81) had 7 points each in the loss.

South Korea: Stevenson Cameron (200-F-75, agency: Alti Sport, college: Richmond) 17, Kang Byung-Hyun 17, Cho Sung-Min 16
Malaysia: Li Wei Chee 12, Ban Sin Ooi 7, Yeo Seng John Ng 7

Philippines - Iran 73:59
Philippines earned the first win at the William Jones Cup. They overcame Iran in the opener. Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) stepped up with 24 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners.
Philippines limited Iran to 12 points in the opening quarter posting a 5-point lead at the first break. Iran increased the tempo in the second period but Philippines easily matched it. They registered a 37:30 halftime lead. Iran, who played without Nikkhah, scored just 8 points in the third frame to face a 16-point deficit with one quarter remaining. Iran outscored Philippines in the fourth quarter but never threatened the margin at the end. Andy Barroca (176-F/C-86) scored 13 points and grabbed 7 rebounds, while Joseph Casio (177-PG-86) added 11 points for Philippines. Hamed Haddadi (218-C-85) responded with game-high 25 points and 9 rebounds for Iran. Mahdi Kamrani (186-G-82) netted 18 points in defeat.

Philippines: Marcus Douthit 24+11 boards, Andy Barroca 13, Joseph Casio 11
Iran: Hamed Haddadi 25, Mahdi Kamrani 18

Taiwan - Japan 99:72
Taiwan recorded the first win at the William Jones Cup. The hosts thrashed Japan in the opener. Creighton Douglas (195-F-85) stepped up with 18 points to pace the effort.
Taiwan set the tone early. They outgunned Japan 21:13 in the opening ten minutes. Taiwan boosted the margin to 12 points at the interval 43:31. Taiwan did not slow down in the third quarter. The home team fired 33 points and arrived at the final intermission up by as many as 22 points. Japan could not pick up the tempo and suffered a heavy defeat at the end. Wen-Ting Tseng (202-C/F-84) contributed 15 points for Taiwan. Lu Cheng-Ju (194-F-86) had 12 points in the victory. Keijuro Matsui (188-G-85, college: Columbia) responded with 13 points for Japan. Yuta Watanabe (195-G-94) knocked down 12 points in the loss.

Taiwan: Creighton Douglas 18, Wen-Ting Tseng 15, Lu Cheng-Ju 12
Japan: Keijuro Matsui 13, Yuta Watanabe 12, Sean Hinkley (197-F-91) 11


Day 1: Philippines upset two-time defending champ Iran - by Chris Wang
Led by naturalized Marcus Douthit, who had 24 points and 11 rebounds, Philippines upset two-time defending champion Iran Saturday in the opening day of the 2011 William Jones Cup invitational tournament in Taipei.

Philippines NT was more prepared against Iran, who came to Taipei without one of its key players Samad Nikkhah. According to Iranian head coach Veselin Matic, Hamed Ehadadi did not practice much with the team before arriving in Taiwan.

In the other game, Taiwan NT welcomed back Chen Hsin-an, who haven't been playing for Taiwan for years, and defeated a young and inexperienced Japan 99-72.

Philippines 73-59 Iran
PHI: M. Douthit 24+11, A.M. Barroca 13+7
IRN: H. Ehadadi 25+9, M. Kamrani 18

Taiwan 99-72 Japan
TWN: D. Creighton 18, Tseng Wen-ting 15, Lu Cheng-ju 12
JPN: Keijuro Matsui 13, Yuta Watanabe 12

Korea 110-50 Malaysia
KOR: Kang Byung-hyun 17, Moon Tae-jong 17, Cho Sung-min 16, Ha Seung-jin 10+9
MY: Li Wei Chee 12

Joran 91-72 UAE
JOR: R. Wright 15, Z.A. Abbas 14, A.J. Zaghab 12+8
UAE: O. Alameri 19

Standings:
Jordan 1-0
Korea 1-0
Philippines 1-0
Taiwan 1-0
Iran 0-1
Japan 0-1
Malaysia 0-1
UAE 0-1


Standings
Standings
1. Jordan1-0
2. S.Korea1-0
3. Philippine.1-0
4. Taiwan1-0
5. S.Africa0-0
6. United Ara.0-1
7. Malaysia0-1
8. Japan0-1
9. Iran0-1




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Women News

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  AUSTRIA - Women  


U18 Greece blasts U18 Austria in Miskolc, 59-31 - by Eurobasket News
U18 GREECE - U18 AUSTRIA 59-31

Greece secured a spot for the Qualifying Round in Miskolc. They blasted Austria 59-31 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group D. On the other side, Austria dropped to 0-2 but still has some chances to reach the next stage. Greece will meet Norway today and will try to win this game and this pool as well. Austria will play against Latvia in do-or-die game. They will have a very difficult job in this meeting. Artemis Spanou (190-F/C-93) shined for Greece with 16 points. Their second scorer was Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) (5 rebs) with 12 points, while Vasiliki Tarla (181-F-94) added 9 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Sigrid Koizar (173-PG-95) was the leading scorer with just 7 points. Barbara Keck (183-F-94) had 5 points and 5 rebs. Quarters: 20-8, 9-11, 9-7, 21-5.

Greece: Artemis Spanou 16, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 12+5 boards, Vasiliki Tarla 9+6 boards
Austria: Sigrid Koizar 7, Barbara Keck 5+5 boards

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  BAHAMAS - Women  


US Virgin Islands smash Bahamas in the last quarter, celebrate first win in Nassau - by Eurobasket News
BAHAMAS - U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS 61-67

First victory for the US Virgin Islands in Nassau. They outplayed Bahamas 67-61 for 1-1 record in CBC Championship 2011. On the other side, the host of this event dropped to 1-2. Natalie Day (182-G/F-90) was a key player for the winners with 27 points and 14 rebounds. She reached impressive valuation 36. Yanique Javois (176-G-85, college: St.Louis) was the second scorer in victory with 18 points. The hosts got 13 points and 6 rebounds from Taneil Poitier (90). Philicia Kelly (90) netted 10 points. Quarters: 20-14, 18-15, 19-12, 4-26. In Day Four, US Virgin Islands will meet Trinidad and Tobago. Bahamas will play against Dominican Republic.

Bahamas: Taneil Poitier 13+6 boards, Philicia Kelly 10
US Virgin Islands: Natalie Day 27+14 boards, Yanique Javois 18

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  BELARUS - Women  


U18 Belarus secures first place in Group A - by Eurobasket News
U18 BELARUS - U18 GERMANY 53-50

Belarus stays perfect after two days at the U18 EuroBasket in Miskolc. They grabbed 53-50 win against Germany for 2-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Thanks to this win Belarus already booked a ticket for the next stage. They will end as No.1 of this pool. Germany dropped to 1-1, but they will also advance. Germany will meet Bulgaria today for the second place in Group A. Darya Lipinskaya (180-G/F-93) led the winners with 16 points. Hanna Kalenta (187-C-94) (8 rebs) and Maryia Papova (183-F-94) netted 11 points each. In defeat, Sophie Eder (178-F-93) delivered 13 points. Their second scorer was Elisabeth Dzirma (179-G-94) with 9 points. Quarters: 10-10, 14-8, 16-19, 13-13.

Belarus: Darya Lipinskaya 16, Hanna Kalenta 11+8 boards, Maryia Papova 11
Germany: Sophie Eder 13, Elisabeth Dzirma 9

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  BELGIUM - Women  


U18 Belgium keeps U18 Italy winless in Oradea, 61-53 - by Eurobasket News
U18 BELGIUM - U18 ITALY 61-53

Belgium booked a ticket for the next stage in Oradea. They outplayed Italy 61-53 for 2-0 record in Preliminary Group C. Italy dropped to 0-2 after this game, but still has a chance to reach the Qualifying Round. Emma Meesseman (192-C-93) stepped up for the winners with 17 points and 16 rebounds. She reached valuation 28 and was the MVP of this meeting. Antonia Delaere (174-G-94) had 13 points and Julie Vanloo (172-PG-93) added 9 pts. In defeat, Francesca Dotto (170-PG-93) delivered 13 points. Their second scorer was Chiara Terenzi (184-F/C-93) with 10 pts (6 rebs). Quarters: 20-11, 9-16, 13-14, 19-12. Belgium will meet Serbia for the first place in Group C. Italy will play against Ukraine and it will be a do-or-die game for both teams.

Belgium: Emma Meesseman 17+16 boards, Antonia Delaere 13, Julie Vanloo 9
Italy: Francesca Dotto 13, Chiara Terenzi 10+6 boards

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  BULGARIA - Women  


U18 Bulgaria takes first win in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News
U18 UNITED KINGDOM - U18 BULGARIA 62-69

First victory for Bulgaria in Miskolc. They outplayed United Kingdom 69-62 for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group A. On the other side, UK dropped to 0-2. Thanks to this win Bulgaria already booked a spot for the next stage at U18 EuroBasket Division B. Also, it is already clear that UK will not make it. Iva Kostova (172-F-94) shined for the winners with 28 points and 6 rebounds. Kristina Peychinova (174-C-94) had 11 points and Radostina Dimitrova (175-F-94) added one point less. In defeat, Rosie Hynes (172-PG-93) had 12 points and 8 boards. Christina Gaskin (188-F/C-93) collected 11 points and 11 rebounds. Quarters: 14-16, 17-14, 12-16, 19-23. Bulgaria will meet Germany for the second place in Group A. Also today UK will play against Belarus.

United Kingdom: Rosie Hynes 12+8 boards, Christina Gaskin 11+11 boards
Bulgaria: Iva Kostova 28+6 boards, Kristina Peychinova 11, Radostina Dimitrova 10

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  CBC CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Day Three in Nassau - by Eurobasket News
Saint Vincent - Trinidad and Tobago 59-73
Second win for Trinidad and Tobago in Nassau. It was a Day Three of the CBC Championship and T&T cruised past Saint Vincent 73-59 for 2-1 record at this event. On the other side, Saint Vincent dropped to 0-3. Melissa Guerrero (180-G-83) was the leading player in victory with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Rhea Codio (165-G-88) had 12 points and 7 assists, while Jowan Ortega (173-G-85, college: UMKC) also helped with 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Shavern Weekes top-scored with 16 points (5 rebs). Galeine Gordon (85) also was good adding 14 points and 12 rebounds. Quarters: 17-17, 18-17, 18-16, 6-23. Today, T&T will meet US Virgin Islands. Saint Vincent will take on Cuba in their search for the first win in Nassau.

Dominican Republic - Cuba 73-80
Cuba registered third straight win in Nassau. This time Cuba was better than Dominican Republic handing them 80-73 loss for perfect 3-0 record. On the other side, Dominican Republic dropped to 1-1. Yamara Amargo (180-F-85) led the winners with 20 points. Marlen Cepeda (193-C-85) had double-double of 18 points and 14 rebounds, while Taimy Fernandez (183-F-82) added 15 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Carmen Guzman (175-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) shined with 39 points. Their second scorer was Andreina Paniagua (183-F-78) with 12 points. Quarters: 17-22, 10-25, 23-16, 23-17. In Day Four, Cuba will meet Saint Vincent. Dominican Republic will play against the host Bahamas.

Bahamas - U.S. Virgin Islands 61-67
First victory for the US Virgin Islands in Nassau. They outplayed Bahamas 67-61 for 1-1 record in CBC Championship 2011. On the other side, the host of this event dropped to 1-2. Natalie Day (182-G/F-90) was a key player for the winners with 27 points and 14 rebounds. She reached impressive valuation 36. Yanique Javois (176-G-85, college: St.Louis) was the second scorer in victory with 18 points. The hosts got 13 points and 6 rebounds from Taneil Poitier (90). Philicia Kelly (90) netted 10 points. Quarters: 20-14, 18-15, 19-12, 4-26. In Day Four, US Virgin Islands will meet Trinidad and Tobago. Bahamas will play against Dominican Republic.

Standings (Women)
Standings
1. Cuba3-0
2. Trinid/T.2-1
3. Dominican R.1-1
4. US Virg.Isl1-1
5. Bahamas1-2
6. Saint Vinc.0-3


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  CROATIA - Women  


U18 Croatia jumps to 2-0 in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News
U18 HUNGARY - U18 CROATIA 49-60

Both teams celebrated in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket Division B in Miskolc. Croatia was better than Hungary yesterday 60-49 keeping the perfect score in Group B. Thanks to this win Croatia already booked a spot for the next stage. Their leading player in this game was Ivana Tikvic (189-C-94) with 17 points and 14 rebounds. Ivana Blazevic (182-PG-93) scored 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. On the other side, Hungary got 21 points from Amadea Szamosi (190-F/C-94). Fanni Szabo (181-G-94) collected 11 points and 8 boards Quarters: 13-10, 14-10, 18-19, 4-21. In the last day of the Preliminary Round Croatia will meet Switzerland. Hungary will take on Portugal.

Hungary: Amadea Szamosi 21, Fanni Szabo 11+8 boards
Croatia: Ivana Tikvic 17+14 boards, Ivana Blazevic 14+5 boards

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  CUBA - Women  


Cuba stays perfect in Nassau - by Eurobasket News
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - CUBA 73-80

Cuba registered third straight win in Nassau. This time Cuba was better than Dominican Republic handing them 80-73 loss for perfect 3-0 record. On the other side, Dominican Republic dropped to 1-1. Yamara Amargo (180-F-85) led the winners with 20 points. Marlen Cepeda (193-C-85) had double-double of 18 points and 14 rebounds, while Taimy Fernandez (183-F-82) added 15 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Carmen Guzman (175-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) shined with 39 points. Their second scorer was Andreina Paniagua (183-F-78) with 12 points. Quarters: 17-22, 10-25, 23-16, 23-17. In Day Four, Cuba will meet Saint Vincent. Dominican Republic will play against the host Bahamas.

Dominican Republic: Carmen Guzman 39, Andreina Paniagua 12
Cuba: Yamara Amargo 20, Marlen Cepeda 18+14 boards, Taimy Fernandez 15+6 boards

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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


U18 France stays perfect in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 FRANCE - U18 CZECH REPUBLIC 61-49

France booked a spot for the Qualifying Round in Oradea. They outplayed Czech Republic 61-49 for perfect 2-0 record in Group D. There is one more day left in Preliminary Round and France will meet Holland. The winner will end as No.1 of this pool. On the other side, Czech Republic dropped to 0-2. They will play against Slovakia in do-or-die game today. Esther Niamke (164-PG-93) shined for the winners with 21 points. Mamignan Toure (179-G-94) had 11 points and was the second scorer in victory. In defeat, Tereza Vyoralova (176-PG-94) collected 11 points and 5 rebs. Michaela Vojtkova (177-F-93) added 7 points and 8 rebs. Quarters: 8-14, 16-19, 21-8, 16-8.

France: Esther Niamke 21, Mamignan Toure 11
Czech Republic: Tereza Vyoralova 11+5 boards, Michaela Vojtkova 7+8 boards

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  DENMARK - Women  


U18 Finland secures Qualifying Round in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News
U18 FINLAND - U18 DENMARK 82-61

Finland booked a spot for the next stage at the U18 EuroBasket Division B. They handed 82-61 loss to Denmark for perfect 2-0 record in Group C. It will be enough for the Qualifying Round. Toda, Finland will meet Israel fo the first place in this pool. Denmark will meet Luxembourg in do-or-die game. Both teams have 0-2 now and the winner will advance. Evita Iiskola (182-F-93) led Finland with 24 points. Annika Holopainen (186-F/C-93) and Anette Juvonen (170-G-93) (5 rebs, 5 as) helped with 15 and 11 points respectively. In Denmark, Mathilde Fogelstrom (184-PG-93) was better than the others with 14 points and 7 rebs. Ena Viso (177-F-93) collected 10 points and 11 rebs. Quarters: 20-11, 23-18, 22-21, 17-11).

Finland: Evita Iiskola 24, Annika Holopainen 15+5 boards+5 as, Anette Juvonen 11
Denmark: Mathilde Fogelstrom 14+7 boards, Ena Viso 10+11 boards

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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Women  


Cuba stays perfect in Nassau - by Eurobasket News
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - CUBA 73-80

Cuba registered third straight win in Nassau. This time Cuba was better than Dominican Republic handing them 80-73 loss for perfect 3-0 record. On the other side, Dominican Republic dropped to 1-1. Yamara Amargo (180-F-85) led the winners with 20 points. Marlen Cepeda (193-C-85) had double-double of 18 points and 14 rebounds, while Taimy Fernandez (183-F-82) added 15 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Carmen Guzman (175-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) shined with 39 points. Their second scorer was Andreina Paniagua (183-F-78) with 12 points. Quarters: 17-22, 10-25, 23-16, 23-17. In Day Four, Cuba will meet Saint Vincent. Dominican Republic will play against the host Bahamas.

Dominican Republic: Carmen Guzman 39, Andreina Paniagua 12
Cuba: Yamara Amargo 20, Marlen Cepeda 18+14 boards, Taimy Fernandez 15+6 boards

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18 - Women  


W-Standings - Group A
Standings
Group A
1. Sweden2-0
2. Turkey1-1
3. Romania1-1
4. Russia0-2
Group B
1. Spain2-0
2. Lithuania1-1
3. Slovenia1-1
4. Poland0-2
Group C
1. Belgium2-0
2. Serbia2-0
3. Ukraine0-2
4. Italy0-2
Group D
1. France2-0
2. Holland2-0
3. Slovakia0-2
4. Czech Rep.0-2


Standings - Division B - by Eurobasket News
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Belarus2-0
2. Bulgaria1-1
3. Germany1-1
4. U.Kingdom0-2
Group B
1. Croatia2-0
2. Hungary1-1
3. Portugal1-1
4. Switzerlan.0-2
Group C
1. Finland2-0
2. Israel2-0
3. Luxembourg.0-2
4. Denmark0-2
Group D
1. Greece2-0
2. Latvia1-1
3. Norway1-1
4. Austria0-2


Div.A Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Emma MEESSEMAN
  (192-C-93)
  Avg: 20
 1. Meesseman, BEL20.0 
 2. Zahui, SWE17.5 
 3. Ndour, ESP17.0 
 4. Bettonvil, NED16.0 
 5. Gabrovsek, SLO15.5 
 6. Abramovic, SLO15.0 
 7. Vilaro, ESP13.0 
 8. Chek, UKR13.0 
 9. Vyoralova, CZE13.0 
 10. Kavurmaciogl., TUR13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ieva PRESKIENYTE
  (193-C-93)
  Avg: 13
 1. Preskienyte, LTU13.0 
 2. Naumenko, UKR11.5 
 3. Balart, ESP11.0 
 4. Meesseman, BEL10.5 
 5. Tikhonenko, RUS10.0 
 6. Zahui, SWE10.0 
 7. Kovacevic, SRB9.5 
 8. Chek, UKR9.5 
 9. Brajkovic, SRB9.5 
 10. Topuzovic, SRB9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Viktorija JUODEIKYTE
  (163-PG-93)
  Avg: 5
 1. Juodeikyte, LTU5.0 
 2. Stanacev, SRB5.0 
 3. Nystrom, SWE4.5 
 4. Vanloo, BEL4.0 
 5. Topuzovic, SRB3.5 
 6. Gabrovsek, SLO3.0 
 7. Vyoralova, CZE3.0 
 8. Fontaine, SWE3.0 
 9. Skrzecz, POL3.0 
 10. Rodriguez, ESP3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Emma MEESSEMAN
  (192-C-93)
  Avg: 7
 1. Meesseman, BEL7.0 
 2. Ursu, ROM4.5 
 3. Samec, SLO4.0 
 4. Abramovic, SLO4.0 
 5. Kurt, SWE3.5 
 6. Vyoralova, CZE3.5 
 7. Oroszova, SVK3.0 
 8. Gabrovsek, SLO3.0 
 9. Cora, TUR3.0 
 10. Diaz, ESP3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Astou NDOUR
  (196-C-94)
  Avg: 3
 1. Ndour, ESP3.0 
 2. Preskienyte, LTU2.5 
 3. Meesseman, BEL2.5 
 4. Ruban, UKR2.0 
 5. Jastrzebska, POL2.0 
 6. Matuzonyte, LTU1.5 
 7. Cornelie, FRA1.5 
 8. Tikhonenko, RUS1.5 
 9. Stievenard, FRA1.5 
 10. Blanaru, ROM1.0 


Div.B Stats Leaders - by Greg
Points Per Game
 Lena HETTO
  (184-F-93)
  Avg: 24
 1. Hetto, LUX24.0 
 2. Szamosi, HUN23.0 
 3. Holopainen, FIN19.5 
 4. Iiskola, FIN19.0 
 5. Kostova, BUL18.5 
 6. Austgulen, NOR18.0 
 7. Tikvic, CRO18.0 
 8. Spanou, GRE17.5 
 9. Chatzigiakou., GRE17.5 
 10. Lipinskaya, BLR16.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Christina GASKIN
  (188-F/C-93)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Gaskin, ENG11.5 
 2. Lagzdina, LAT11.0 
 3. Kalenta, BLR10.0 
 4. Hetto, LUX10.0 
 5. Tikvic, CRO10.0 
 6. Judit, HUN9.0 
 7. Papova, BLR9.0 
 8. McCarthy, NOR8.5 
 9. Granheim, NOR8.0 
 10. Viso, DEN8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Anette JUVONEN
  (170-G-93)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Juvonen, FIN5.5 
 2. Szabo, HUN3.5 
 3. Sikiric, CRO3.5 
 4. Tikvic, CRO3.0 
 5. Czirjak, HUN3.0 
 6. Dzankic, CRO3.0 
 7. Koch, HUN3.0 
 8. Kantara, GRE3.0 
 9. Hynes, ENG3.0 
 10. Levi, ISR3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Jessica ALMEIDA
  (172-PG-93)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Almeida, POR3.5 
 2. Tikvic, CRO3.5 
 3. Majstorovic, CRO3.0 
 4. Czirjak, HUN3.0 
 5. Lipinskaya, BLR3.0 
 6. Slouka, GRE3.0 
 7. Epnere, LAT3.0 
 8. Holopainen, FIN2.5 
 9. Reine, LAT2.5 
 10. Spanou, GRE2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Hanna KALENTA
  (187-C-94)
  Avg: 3
 1. Kalenta, BLR3.0 
 2. Tikvic, CRO3.0 
 3. Gaskin, ENG2.5 
 4. Fouraki, GRE2.5 
 5. Breivik, NOR2.0 
 6. Judit, HUN2.0 
 7. Szabo, HUN1.5 
 8. Begic, CRO1.5 
 9. Szamosi, HUN1.5 
 10. Hannoun, ISR1.5 


Division A: Day Two in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Sweden - Romania 79-41
Sweden registered second straight win in Oradea. They blasted Romania 79-41 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Thanks to this win Sweden already booked a spot for the next stage. On the other side, Romania dropped to 1-1. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) was the leading player in victory with double-double of 23 points and 10 rebounds. Nathalie Fontaine (183-F-93) had 15 points and 7 rebs, while Alice Nystrom (183-F-93) added 12 points. In defeat, Arina Craciun (194-C-93) was the best scorer with 8 points (7 rebs). Laura Pal (174-G-93) had one point less. Quarters: 20-10, 19-8, 27-10, 13-13. Today Sweden will meet Russia. Romania will take on Turkey.

Russia - Turkey 51-56
First victory for Turkey at the U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. They outplayed Russia 56-51 for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group A. On the other side, Russia dropped to 0-2. Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) stepped up for the winners with 12 points and 5 rebounds. Ozge Kavurmacioglu (187-F-93) had 11 points and 7 boards, while Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93), Betul Kalfali (178-F-93) and Gizem Sezer (196-C-94) netted 7 points each. In Russia, Marita Davidova collected 13 points and 7 rebounds. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: RIZO) had double-double of 12 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 18-20, 12-14, 11-12, 10-10. In the last day of the Preliminary Round Turkey will meet Romania. Russia will take on Sweden.

Group B
Spain - Poland 93-37
Another great performance by Spain in Oradea. They destroyed Poland 93-37 for perfect 2-0 record in Group B. Thanks to this win Spain already booked a ticket for the next stage. Poland dropped to 0-2 and currently closes the standings in this pool. Andrea Vilaro (180-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Astou Ndour (196-C-94) had 21 points and 8 rebounds, while Maria Gonzalez (178-G/F-93) helped with 12 pts. Poland did not have anyone with double-digits in scoring. Patrycja Jastrzebska (187-C-94) and Monika Skrzecz (162-PG-94) were their leading players with 7 points each. Quarters: 23-7, 24-16, 26-4, 20-10. In the last day of the Preliminary Round Spain will meet Lithuania. Poland will take on Slovenia.

Lithuania - Slovenia 51-67
First victory for Slovenia in Oradea. It was a Day Two of U18 EuroBasket and Slovenia handed 67-51 loss to Lithuania. Both teams have 1-1 record in Group B now. Rebeka Abramovic (170-PG-93) shined for the winners with 22 points. Nina Gabrovsek (168-PG-94) had 19 points and 5 rebounds, while Maja Bosnjak (186-F/C-95) added 8 pts. In the loosing squad, Ieva Preskienyte (193-C-93) was the only player with double-digits in scoring with 10 points (7 rebs). Akvile Baronenaite (180-F-93) (5 rebs) and Goda Ziutelyte (179-F-93) added 8 points each. Quarters: 15-19, 15-19, 8-13, 13-16. In the next game Slovenia will meet Poland. Lithuania will take on Spain.

Group C
Serbia - Ukraine 61-41
Serbia demonstrated another impressive performance in Oradea. This time Serbia handed 61-41 loss to Ukraine jumping to 2-0 in Preliminary Group C. With this win Serbia already booked a ticket for the Qualifying Round. They will meet Belgium today for the first place in this pool. Ukraine dropped to 0-2 and will play against Italy. It will be a do-or-die game for both teams. Katarina Vuckovic (191-F/C-94) led the winners with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Anita Bosnjak (171-G-94) had 10 points and Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 9 points, plus 9 boards. In defeat, Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93) collected 12 points and 8 rebounds. Their second scorer was Miriam Uro-Nile (190-C-94) with 10 points. Quarters: 20-12, 17-9, 17-9, 7-11.

Belgium - Italy 61-53
Belgium booked a ticket for the next stage in Oradea. They outplayed Italy 61-53 for 2-0 record in Preliminary Group C. Italy dropped to 0-2 after this game, but still has a chance to reach the Qualifying Round. Emma Meesseman (192-C-93) stepped up for the winners with 17 points and 16 rebounds. She reached valuation 28 and was the MVP of this meeting. Antonia Delaere (174-G-94) had 13 points and Julie Vanloo (172-PG-93) added 9 pts. In defeat, Francesca Dotto (170-PG-93) delivered 13 points. Their second scorer was Chiara Terenzi (184-F/C-93) with 10 pts (6 rebs). Quarters: 20-11, 9-16, 13-14, 19-12. Belgium will meet Serbia for the first place in Group C. Italy will play against Ukraine and it will be a do-or-die game for both teams.

Group D
France - Czech Republic 61-49
France booked a spot for the Qualifying Round in Oradea. They outplayed Czech Republic 61-49 for perfect 2-0 record in Group D. There is one more day left in Preliminary Round and France will meet Holland. The winner will end as No.1 of this pool. On the other side, Czech Republic dropped to 0-2. They will play against Slovakia in do-or-die game today. Esther Niamke (164-PG-93) shined for the winners with 21 points. Mamignan Toure (179-G-94) had 11 points and was the second scorer in victory. In defeat, Tereza Vyoralova (176-PG-94) collected 11 points and 5 rebs. Michaela Vojtkova (177-F-93) added 7 points and 8 rebs. Quarters: 8-14, 16-19, 21-8, 16-8.

Holland - Slovakia 49-42
Holland registered second straight win in Oradea. This time Holland was better than Slovakia 49-42. Holland has 2-0 now in Group D and already booked a ticket for the next stage. They will play against France today for the first place in this pool. Slovakia dropped to 0-2. They will meet Czech Republic in do-or-die game. Loyce Bettonvil (185-F-93) and Richelle Van Der Keijl (196-C-93) had 12 points and 8 rebounds each for the winners. Jacobine Klerx (175-G-94) added 8 points and 5 rebs. Angelika Slamova (173-G-94) responded with 13 points and 7 boards in defeat. Their second scorer was Michaela Rakova (185-F-94) with 8 points (5 rebs). Quarters: 9-11, 16-9, 17-8, 7-14.

Division B: Day Two in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Belarus - Germany 53-50
Belarus stays perfect after two days at the U18 EuroBasket in Miskolc. They grabbed 53-50 win against Germany for 2-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Thanks to this win Belarus already booked a ticket for the next stage. They will end as No.1 of this pool. Germany dropped to 1-1, but they will also advance. Germany will meet Bulgaria today for the second place in Group A. Darya Lipinskaya (180-G/F-93) led the winners with 16 points. Hanna Kalenta (187-C-94) (8 rebs) and Maryia Papova (183-F-94) netted 11 points each. In defeat, Sophie Eder (178-F-93) delivered 13 points. Their second scorer was Elisabeth Dzirma (179-G-94) with 9 points. Quarters: 10-10, 14-8, 16-19, 13-13.

United Kingdom - Bulgaria 62-69
First victory for Bulgaria in Miskolc. They outplayed United Kingdom 69-62 for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group A. On the other side, UK dropped to 0-2. Thanks to this win Bulgaria already booked a spot for the next stage at U18 EuroBasket Division B. Also, it is already clear that UK will not make it. Iva Kostova (172-F-94) shined for the winners with 28 points and 6 rebounds. Kristina Peychinova (174-C-94) had 11 points and Radostina Dimitrova (175-F-94) added one point less. In defeat, Rosie Hynes (172-PG-93) had 12 points and 8 boards. Christina Gaskin (188-F/C-93) collected 11 points and 11 rebounds. Quarters: 14-16, 17-14, 12-16, 19-23. Bulgaria will meet Germany for the second place in Group A. Also today UK will play against Belarus.

Group B
Hungary - Croatia 49-60
Both teams celebrated in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket Division B in Miskolc. Croatia was better than Hungary yesterday 60-49 keeping the perfect score in Group B. Thanks to this win Croatia already booked a spot for the next stage. Their leading player in this game was Ivana Tikvic (189-C-94) with 17 points and 14 rebounds. Ivana Blazevic (182-PG-93) scored 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. On the other side, Hungary got 21 points from Amadea Szamosi (190-F/C-94). Fanni Szabo (181-G-94) collected 11 points and 8 boards Quarters: 13-10, 14-10, 18-19, 4-21. In the last day of the Preliminary Round Croatia will meet Switzerland. Hungary will take on Portugal.

Portugal - Switzerland 71-49
Portugal grabbed their first win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Miskolc. They destroyed Switzerland 71-49 for 1-1 record in Group B. It will most probably be enough for the second stage at this event. Switzerland stays winless after two days. Joana Jesus (173-G-93) exploded with 22 points for the winners Mafalda Barros (166-PG-94) scored 16 and Jessica Almeida (172-PG-93) added 12 pts, plus 5 boards. In defeat, Alexandra Koch (175-PG-94) delivered 9 points. Alix Rieder (168-PG-93) and Giulia Simioni (169-G-93) netted 8 points each. Quarters: 23-11, 15-12, 18-11, 15-15. Today, Portugal will meet Hungary. Switzerland will play against Croatia.

Group C
Finland - Denmark 82-61
Finland booked a spot for the next stage at the U18 EuroBasket Division B. They handed 82-61 loss to Denmark for perfect 2-0 record in Group C. It will be enough for the Qualifying Round. Toda, Finland will meet Israel fo the first place in this pool. Denmark will meet Luxembourg in do-or-die game. Both teams have 0-2 now and the winner will advance. Evita Iiskola (182-F-93) led Finland with 24 points. Annika Holopainen (186-F/C-93) and Anette Juvonen (170-G-93) (5 rebs, 5 as) helped with 15 and 11 points respectively. In Denmark, Mathilde Fogelstrom (184-PG-93) was better than the others with 14 points and 7 rebs. Ena Viso (177-F-93) collected 10 points and 11 rebs. Quarters: 20-11, 23-18, 22-21, 17-11).

Israel - Luxembourg 84-71
Second straight win for Israel in Miskolc. This time Israel was better than Luxembourg jumping to 2-0 in Preliminary Group C. Thanks to this win Israeli already secured a ticket for the next stage. They will meet Finland today in the battle for the first place in this pool. On the other side Luxembourg dropped to 0-2. They will meet Denmark in do-or-die game. Hadar Levi (170-PG-94) and Chen Weisbort (165-G-93) scored 14 points each for the winners. Mariam Hannoun (178-F-94) had 12 pts and 10 rebs. In defeat, Lena Hetto (184-F-93) shined with 27 points and 10 boards. Their second scorer was Nadia Marcus (173-G-93) with 15 points (12 rebs). Quarters: 33-23, 13-14, 24-13, 14-21.

Group D
Norway - Latvia 44-69
Latvia made a huge step forward to Qualifying Round in Miskolc. They cruised past Norway 69-44 to join them with 1-1 record in Preliminary Group D. In the last game of this phase Latvia will Austria. In case of victory Latvia will definitely book a spot for the next stage. They have a chance to finish even as No.2 in this pool. Norway will play against top ranked Greece. Renate Reine (176-G-94) led Latvia in scoring with 13 points. Paila Tomsone (192-C-94) had 12 points and Asnate Fomina (170-PG-94) added 10 pts. In the loosing squad, Stine Austgulen (177-G-94) collected 13 points and 6 rebounds. Their second scorer was Lise Breivik (181-F-93) with 10 pts. Quarters: 11-17, 10-16, 10-19, 13-17.

Greece - Austria 59-31
Greece secured a spot for the Qualifying Round in Miskolc. They blasted Austria 59-31 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group D. On the other side, Austria dropped to 0-2 but still has some chances to reach the next stage. Greece will meet Norway today and will try to win this game and this pool as well. Austria will play against Latvia in do-or-die game. They will have a very difficult job in this meeting. Artemis Spanou (190-F/C-93) shined for Greece with 16 points. Their second scorer was Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) (5 rebs) with 12 points, while Vasiliki Tarla (181-F-94) added 9 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Sigrid Koizar (173-PG-95) was the leading scorer with just 7 points. Barbara Keck (183-F-94) had 5 points and 5 rebs. Quarters: 20-8, 9-11, 9-7, 21-5.

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  FINLAND - Women  


U18 Finland secures Qualifying Round in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News
U18 FINLAND - U18 DENMARK 82-61

Finland booked a spot for the next stage at the U18 EuroBasket Division B. They handed 82-61 loss to Denmark for perfect 2-0 record in Group C. It will be enough for the Qualifying Round. Toda, Finland will meet Israel fo the first place in this pool. Denmark will meet Luxembourg in do-or-die game. Both teams have 0-2 now and the winner will advance. Evita Iiskola (182-F-93) led Finland with 24 points. Annika Holopainen (186-F/C-93) and Anette Juvonen (170-G-93) (5 rebs, 5 as) helped with 15 and 11 points respectively. In Denmark, Mathilde Fogelstrom (184-PG-93) was better than the others with 14 points and 7 rebs. Ena Viso (177-F-93) collected 10 points and 11 rebs. Quarters: 20-11, 23-18, 22-21, 17-11).

Finland: Evita Iiskola 24, Annika Holopainen 15+5 boards+5 as, Anette Juvonen 11
Denmark: Mathilde Fogelstrom 14+7 boards, Ena Viso 10+11 boards

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  FRANCE - Women  


U18 France stays perfect in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 FRANCE - U18 CZECH REPUBLIC 61-49

France booked a spot for the Qualifying Round in Oradea. They outplayed Czech Republic 61-49 for perfect 2-0 record in Group D. There is one more day left in Preliminary Round and France will meet Holland. The winner will end as No.1 of this pool. On the other side, Czech Republic dropped to 0-2. They will play against Slovakia in do-or-die game today. Esther Niamke (164-PG-93) shined for the winners with 21 points. Mamignan Toure (179-G-94) had 11 points and was the second scorer in victory. In defeat, Tereza Vyoralova (176-PG-94) collected 11 points and 5 rebs. Michaela Vojtkova (177-F-93) added 7 points and 8 rebs. Quarters: 8-14, 16-19, 21-8, 16-8.

France: Esther Niamke 21, Mamignan Toure 11
Czech Republic: Tereza Vyoralova 11+5 boards, Michaela Vojtkova 7+8 boards

France U16 edged Greece U16 in Italy - by Eurobasket News
France U16-Greece U16 46:36

France U16 edged Greece U16 in the start of the Torneo Internazionale in Cagliari. France won 46:36 trailing after the first half. Greece won the first period 12-10 and had 21-20 after the halftime. France however needed a strong push in the third frame to take 34:28 lead entering the last quarter. France added 12-8 in the last stanza to win the game. Stamolamprou ended up with 10 points for the Greek side, while Eleni Kiratzi (167-G) netted 9.
Spain won the opener of the Torneo Internazionale in Cagliari as they smashed the hosts. The Spanish outfit overcame Italy 71:52 in the first game.
The Greek team will face Spain tonight (19:30), while France will meet Italy. On Sunday Greece will play Italy, while France will take on Spain.


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  GERMANY - Women  


U18 Belarus secures first place in Group A - by Eurobasket News
U18 BELARUS - U18 GERMANY 53-50

Belarus stays perfect after two days at the U18 EuroBasket in Miskolc. They grabbed 53-50 win against Germany for 2-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Thanks to this win Belarus already booked a ticket for the next stage. They will end as No.1 of this pool. Germany dropped to 1-1, but they will also advance. Germany will meet Bulgaria today for the second place in Group A. Darya Lipinskaya (180-G/F-93) led the winners with 16 points. Hanna Kalenta (187-C-94) (8 rebs) and Maryia Papova (183-F-94) netted 11 points each. In defeat, Sophie Eder (178-F-93) delivered 13 points. Their second scorer was Elisabeth Dzirma (179-G-94) with 9 points. Quarters: 10-10, 14-8, 16-19, 13-13.

Belarus: Darya Lipinskaya 16, Hanna Kalenta 11+8 boards, Maryia Papova 11
Germany: Sophie Eder 13, Elisabeth Dzirma 9

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  GREECE - Women  


U18 Greece blasts U18 Austria in Miskolc, 59-31 - by Eurobasket News
U18 GREECE - U18 AUSTRIA 59-31

Greece secured a spot for the Qualifying Round in Miskolc. They blasted Austria 59-31 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group D. On the other side, Austria dropped to 0-2 but still has some chances to reach the next stage. Greece will meet Norway today and will try to win this game and this pool as well. Austria will play against Latvia in do-or-die game. They will have a very difficult job in this meeting. Artemis Spanou (190-F/C-93) shined for Greece with 16 points. Their second scorer was Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) (5 rebs) with 12 points, while Vasiliki Tarla (181-F-94) added 9 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Sigrid Koizar (173-PG-95) was the leading scorer with just 7 points. Barbara Keck (183-F-94) had 5 points and 5 rebs. Quarters: 20-8, 9-11, 9-7, 21-5.

Greece: Artemis Spanou 16, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 12+5 boards, Vasiliki Tarla 9+6 boards
Austria: Sigrid Koizar 7, Barbara Keck 5+5 boards

France U16 edged Greece U16 in Italy - by Eurobasket News
France U16-Greece U16 46:36

France U16 edged Greece U16 in the start of the Torneo Internazionale in Cagliari. France won 46:36 trailing after the first half. Greece won the first period 12-10 and had 21-20 after the halftime. France however needed a strong push in the third frame to take 34:28 lead entering the last quarter. France added 12-8 in the last stanza to win the game. Stamolamprou ended up with 10 points for the Greek side, while Eleni Kiratzi (167-G) netted 9.
Spain won the opener of the Torneo Internazionale in Cagliari as they smashed the hosts. The Spanish outfit overcame Italy 71:52 in the first game.
The Greek team will face Spain tonight (19:30), while France will meet Italy. On Sunday Greece will play Italy, while France will take on Spain.


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  HOLLAND - Women  


U18 Holland secures the second stage in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 HOLLAND - U18 SLOVAKIA 49-42

Holland registered second straight win in Oradea. This time Holland was better than Slovakia 49-42. Holland has 2-0 now in Group D and already booked a ticket for the next stage. They will play against France today for the first place in this pool. Slovakia dropped to 0-2. They will meet Czech Republic in do-or-die game. Loyce Bettonvil (185-F-93) and Richelle Van Der Keijl (196-C-93) had 12 points and 8 rebounds each for the winners. Jacobine Klerx (175-G-94) added 8 points and 5 rebs. Angelika Slamova (173-G-94) responded with 13 points and 7 boards in defeat. Their second scorer was Michaela Rakova (185-F-94) with 8 points (5 rebs). Quarters: 9-11, 16-9, 17-8, 7-14.

Holland: Loyce Bettonvil 12+8 boards, Richelle Van Der Keijl 12+8 boards, Jacobine Klerx 8+5 boards
Slovakia: Angelika Slamova 13+7 boards, Michaela Rakova 8+5 boards

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  HUNGARY - Women  


Market News - by Adam Patonay
SEAT Gyor: the Euroleague newcomer team had a lot of moves on the roster. Englert, Djelmis, Kovacs, Horvath, Kublina and Carson left the team while the new head coach Akos Fuzy selected young players to replace them. Kata Furtos from Baja, Eszter Rubold from Szolnok, Viktoria Vincze from Szekszard and Ritas Rasheed from Szeged. The new foregin players will be Iva Ciglar and Renee Montgomery.

BSE: the traditaional team of capital city will continues in first division with new head coach the former PG, Artur Puskas (190-G-76).

ZTE: the surprise team of last season, added two NT players, Zsofia Varga and Zsofia Horvath.

U18 Croatia jumps to 2-0 in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News
U18 HUNGARY - U18 CROATIA 49-60

Both teams celebrated in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket Division B in Miskolc. Croatia was better than Hungary yesterday 60-49 keeping the perfect score in Group B. Thanks to this win Croatia already booked a spot for the next stage. Their leading player in this game was Ivana Tikvic (189-C-94) with 17 points and 14 rebounds. Ivana Blazevic (182-PG-93) scored 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. On the other side, Hungary got 21 points from Amadea Szamosi (190-F/C-94). Fanni Szabo (181-G-94) collected 11 points and 8 boards Quarters: 13-10, 14-10, 18-19, 4-21. In the last day of the Preliminary Round Croatia will meet Switzerland. Hungary will take on Portugal.

Hungary: Amadea Szamosi 21, Fanni Szabo 11+8 boards
Croatia: Ivana Tikvic 17+14 boards, Ivana Blazevic 14+5 boards

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  ICELAND - Women  


Njardvik land two import players - by Eurobasket News
Njardvik brought in two import players for the next season. They signed contracts with Shanae Baker-Brice (168-G-87) and Wilesia Hardy (C).
Shanae Baker-Brice signed her first pro contract. The 23-year-old guard graduated from the Towson University in 2010. She tallied 17.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 2.2 steals per game in her senior season. Shanae Baker-Brice made it into All-CAA 1st Team in 2009 and 2010.
Wilesia Hardy comes from Great Britian. The centre played for the Nottingham Wildcats last season. Her stats read 20.1 points, 10.3 boards and 2.4 assists per EBL appearance. Wilesia Hardy was named into Eurobasket.com All-English EBL 2nd Team.


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  ISRAEL - Women  


U18 Israel improves to 2-0 in Mickolc - by Eurobasket News
U18 ISRAEL - U18 LUXEMBOURG 84-71

Second straight win for Israel in Miskolc. This time Israel was better than Luxembourg jumping to 2-0 in Preliminary Group C. Thanks to this win Israeli already secured a ticket for the next stage. They will meet Finland today in the battle for the first place in this pool. On the other side Luxembourg dropped to 0-2. They will meet Denmark in do-or-die game. Hadar Levi (170-PG-94) and Chen Weisbort (165-G-93) scored 14 points each for the winners. Mariam Hannoun (178-F-94) had 12 pts and 10 rebs. In defeat, Lena Hetto (184-F-93) shined with 27 points and 10 boards. Their second scorer was Nadia Marcus (173-G-93) with 15 points (12 rebs). Quarters: 33-23, 13-14, 24-13, 14-21.

Israel: Hadar Levi 14, Chen Weisbort 14, Mariam Hannoun 12+10 boards
Luxembourg: Lena Hetto 27+10 boards, Nadia Marcus 15+12 boards

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  ITALY - Women  


U18 Belgium keeps U18 Italy winless in Oradea, 61-53 - by Eurobasket News
U18 BELGIUM - U18 ITALY 61-53

Belgium booked a ticket for the next stage in Oradea. They outplayed Italy 61-53 for 2-0 record in Preliminary Group C. Italy dropped to 0-2 after this game, but still has a chance to reach the Qualifying Round. Emma Meesseman (192-C-93) stepped up for the winners with 17 points and 16 rebounds. She reached valuation 28 and was the MVP of this meeting. Antonia Delaere (174-G-94) had 13 points and Julie Vanloo (172-PG-93) added 9 pts. In defeat, Francesca Dotto (170-PG-93) delivered 13 points. Their second scorer was Chiara Terenzi (184-F/C-93) with 10 pts (6 rebs). Quarters: 20-11, 9-16, 13-14, 19-12. Belgium will meet Serbia for the first place in Group C. Italy will play against Ukraine and it will be a do-or-die game for both teams.

Belgium: Emma Meesseman 17+16 boards, Antonia Delaere 13, Julie Vanloo 9
Italy: Francesca Dotto 13, Chiara Terenzi 10+6 boards

Jenna Plumley pens deal with Cagliari Basket - by Eurobasket News
Jenna Plumley (160-G-87, agency: LBM Management) pens deal with Cagliari Basket for the next season. The American Guard comes from Lamar (NCAA, starting five) where she played in the last two seasons. In 2010-2011 she averaged 15.7ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.5apg, 3.4spg, FGP: 36.9%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 88.4%. Last year she became All-Southland Conf. Player of the Year -10 and All-Southland Conf. Newcomer of the Year -10.
Elena Russo (178-G-88) meanwhile will play for Valentino Auto Santa Marinella. In 2004-2005 the Italian Guard appeared for Pasta Ambra Taranto (A1) and in 2005-2006 played for New Wash Montigarda (A2) and Famila Schio (A1). In 2006-2007 started for Pasta Ambra Taranto (A1) and debuted in EuroCup with 2.0ppg, 1.0rpg, while in Italian League after 15 games had 1.5ppg. In 2007-2008 started for Lila Palestrina (A2),but in Jan'08 moved to Tiemme Porto S.Elpidio (A2). In Dec.'08 signed at Cras Taranto (A1) but in Jan.'09 moved to Banco di Sicilia Ribera (A1).
Roby Profumi meanwhile invited Lucrezia Sordelli. Shari Maimone will play for Pegaso Portici.


Spain won the opener of the Torneo Internazionale in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
Italy U16-Spain U16 32:71

Spain won the opener of the Torneo Internazionale in Cagliari as they smashed the hosts. The Spanish outfit overcame Italy 71:32 in the first game.
Spain opened the game with 19:8 and never looked behind after. The guests increased to 21-point advantage at the halftime. Moreover after Spain had 14-11 in the third frame, the board showed 53:29 at the end of the third quarter. Italy saw a nightmare in the last stanza and fell at 3-18 in it, losing the game by 39 points.
Romero Gonzalez stepped up with 16 points for the winners and Esparcia Omedas as well as Arrojo Jimenez added 8 each. Mongomo Carvallo and Lizarazu Herrera followed them with 7 apiece. Andrea Zandalasini (191-F/G) ended up with 11 points for the home side and Giulia Vanin (188-C-95) delivered 5.
In another game France U16 beat Greece U16 46:36.

Italy U16: Andrea Zandalasini 11, Giulia Vanin 5
Spain U16: Romero Gonzalez 16, Esparcia Omedas 8, Arrojo Jimenez 8, Mongomo Carvallo 7, Lizarazu Herrera 7


Silvia Sarni head to Ragusa on loan - by Eurobasket News
Silvia Sarni (188-F/C-87) heads to Ragusa on loan for the next season. The Italian Power Forward / Center is the member of Cras Taranto, but them team agreed to send her to Ragusa for the next season.
The season 2010-2011 Silvia started with Cras Taranto (A1) and in Italian League averaged 4.0ppg, 2.0rpg. In Euroleague her stats read 0.5ppg,while in Dec.'10 she moved to Club Atletico Faenza (A1, starting five). In 15 games she averaged 2.3ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.5spg.
In one of her top games Silvia Sarni nailed 8 points at the Regular Season Round 10 when Priolo beat Faenza 80-69. Club Atletico Faenza managed to win third quarter 21-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Acer ERG Priolo especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 62.5 percentage.
Her new team Ragusa finished the season on the fourth place in SeriaA2 South. The team had 20 victories and 8 losses in the last season.


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  LATVIA - Women  


U18 Latvia wins first game in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News
U18 NORWAY - U18 LATVIA 44-69

Latvia made a huge step forward to Qualifying Round in Miskolc. They cruised past Norway 69-44 to join them with 1-1 record in Preliminary Group D. In the last game of this phase Latvia will Austria. In case of victory Latvia will definitely book a spot for the next stage. They have a chance to finish even as No.2 in this pool. Norway will play against top ranked Greece. Renate Reine (176-G-94) led Latvia in scoring with 13 points. Paila Tomsone (192-C-94) had 12 points and Asnate Fomina (170-PG-94) added 10 pts. In the loosing squad, Stine Austgulen (177-G-94) collected 13 points and 6 rebounds. Their second scorer was Lise Breivik (181-F-93) with 10 pts. Quarters: 11-17, 10-16, 10-19, 13-17.

Norway: Stine Austgulen 13+6 boards, Lise Breivik 10
Latvia: Renate Reine 13, Paila Tomsone 12, Asnate Fomina 10

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  LITHUANIA - Women  


U18 Slovenia celebrates first win in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 LITHUANIA - U18 SLOVENIA 51-67

First victory for Slovenia in Oradea. It was a Day Two of U18 EuroBasket and Slovenia handed 67-51 loss to Lithuania. Both teams have 1-1 record in Group B now. Rebeka Abramovic (170-PG-93) shined for the winners with 22 points. Nina Gabrovsek (168-PG-94) had 19 points and 5 rebounds, while Maja Bosnjak (186-F/C-95) added 8 pts. In the loosing squad, Ieva Preskienyte (193-C-93) was the only player with double-digits in scoring with 10 points (7 rebs). Akvile Baronenaite (180-F-93) (5 rebs) and Goda Ziutelyte (179-F-93) added 8 points each. Quarters: 15-19, 15-19, 8-13, 13-16. In the next game Slovenia will meet Poland. Lithuania will take on Spain.

Lithuania: Ieva Preskienyte 10+7 boards, Akvile Baronenaite 8+5 boards, Goda Ziutelyte 8
Slovenia: Rebeka Abramovic 22, Nina Gabrovsek 19+5 boards, Maja Bosnjak 8

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  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


U18 Israel improves to 2-0 in Mickolc - by Eurobasket News
U18 ISRAEL - U18 LUXEMBOURG 84-71

Second straight win for Israel in Miskolc. This time Israel was better than Luxembourg jumping to 2-0 in Preliminary Group C. Thanks to this win Israeli already secured a ticket for the next stage. They will meet Finland today in the battle for the first place in this pool. On the other side Luxembourg dropped to 0-2. They will meet Denmark in do-or-die game. Hadar Levi (170-PG-94) and Chen Weisbort (165-G-93) scored 14 points each for the winners. Mariam Hannoun (178-F-94) had 12 pts and 10 rebs. In defeat, Lena Hetto (184-F-93) shined with 27 points and 10 boards. Their second scorer was Nadia Marcus (173-G-93) with 15 points (12 rebs). Quarters: 33-23, 13-14, 24-13, 14-21.

Israel: Hadar Levi 14, Chen Weisbort 14, Mariam Hannoun 12+10 boards
Luxembourg: Lena Hetto 27+10 boards, Nadia Marcus 15+12 boards

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  NORWAY - Women  


U18 Latvia wins first game in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News
U18 NORWAY - U18 LATVIA 44-69

Latvia made a huge step forward to Qualifying Round in Miskolc. They cruised past Norway 69-44 to join them with 1-1 record in Preliminary Group D. In the last game of this phase Latvia will Austria. In case of victory Latvia will definitely book a spot for the next stage. They have a chance to finish even as No.2 in this pool. Norway will play against top ranked Greece. Renate Reine (176-G-94) led Latvia in scoring with 13 points. Paila Tomsone (192-C-94) had 12 points and Asnate Fomina (170-PG-94) added 10 pts. In the loosing squad, Stine Austgulen (177-G-94) collected 13 points and 6 rebounds. Their second scorer was Lise Breivik (181-F-93) with 10 pts. Quarters: 11-17, 10-16, 10-19, 13-17.

Norway: Stine Austgulen 13+6 boards, Lise Breivik 10
Latvia: Renate Reine 13, Paila Tomsone 12, Asnate Fomina 10

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  POLAND - Women  


U18 Spain destroys U18 Poland 93-37 in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 SPAIN - U18 POLAND 93-37

Another great performance by Spain in Oradea. They destroyed Poland 93-37 for perfect 2-0 record in Group B. Thanks to this win Spain already booked a ticket for the next stage. Poland dropped to 0-2 and currently closes the standings in this pool. Andrea Vilaro (180-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Astou Ndour (196-C-94) had 21 points and 8 rebounds, while Maria Gonzalez (178-G/F-93) helped with 12 pts. Poland did not have anyone with double-digits in scoring. Patrycja Jastrzebska (187-C-94) and Monika Skrzecz (162-PG-94) were their leading players with 7 points each. Quarters: 23-7, 24-16, 26-4, 20-10. In the last day of the Preliminary Round Spain will meet Lithuania. Poland will take on Slovenia.

Spain: Andrea Vilaro 22, Astou Ndour 21+8 boards, Maria Gonzalez 12
Poland: Patrycja Jastrzebska 7, Monika Skrzecz 7

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  PORTUGAL - Women  


U18 Portugal cruises past U18 Switzerland 71-49 - by Eurobasket News
U18 PORTUGAL - U18 SWITZERLAND 71-49

Portugal grabbed their first win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Miskolc. They destroyed Switzerland 71-49 for 1-1 record in Group B. It will most probably be enough for the second stage at this event. Switzerland stays winless after two days. Joana Jesus (173-G-93) exploded with 22 points for the winners Mafalda Barros (166-PG-94) scored 16 and Jessica Almeida (172-PG-93) added 12 pts, plus 5 boards. In defeat, Alexandra Koch (175-PG-94) delivered 9 points. Alix Rieder (168-PG-93) and Giulia Simioni (169-G-93) netted 8 points each. Quarters: 23-11, 15-12, 18-11, 15-15. Today, Portugal will meet Hungary. Switzerland will play against Croatia.

Portugal: Joana Jesus 22, Mafalda Barros 16, Jessica Almeida 12+5 boards
Switzerland: Alexandra Koch 9, Alix Rieder 8, Giulia Simioni 8

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  ROMANIA - Women  


U18 Sweden jumps to 2-0 in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 SWEDEN - U18 ROMANIA 79-41

Sweden registered second straight win in Oradea. They blasted Romania 79-41 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Thanks to this win Sweden already booked a spot for the next stage. On the other side, Romania dropped to 1-1. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) was the leading player in victory with double-double of 23 points and 10 rebounds. Nathalie Fontaine (183-F-93) had 15 points and 7 rebs, while Alice Nystrom (183-F-93) added 12 points. In defeat, Arina Craciun (194-C-93) was the best scorer with 8 points (7 rebs). Laura Pal (174-G-93) had one point less. Quarters: 20-10, 19-8, 27-10, 13-13. Today Sweden will meet Russia. Romania will take on Turkey.

Sweden: Amanda Zahui 23+10 boards, Nathalie Fontaine 15+7 boards, Alice Nystrom 12
Romania: Arina Craciun 8+7 boards, Laura Pal 6

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  RUSSIA - Women  


U18 Turkey grabs first win in Oradea, U18 Russia drops to 0-2 - by Eurobasket News
U18 RUSSIA - U18 TURKEY 51-56

First victory for Turkey at the U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. They outplayed Russia 56-51 for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group A. On the other side, Russia dropped to 0-2. Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) stepped up for the winners with 12 points and 5 rebounds. Ozge Kavurmacioglu (187-F-93) had 11 points and 7 boards, while Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93), Betul Kalfali (178-F-93) and Gizem Sezer (196-C-94) netted 7 points each. In Russia, Marita Davidova collected 13 points and 7 rebounds. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: RIZO) had double-double of 12 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 18-20, 12-14, 11-12, 10-10. In the last day of the Preliminary Round Turkey will meet Romania. Russia will take on Sweden.

Russia: Marita Davidova 13+7 boards, Ksenia Tikhonenko 12+10 boards
Turkey: Olcay Cakir 12+5 boards, Ozge Kavurmacioglu 11+7 boards, Ayse Cora 7, Betul Kalfali 7, Gizem Sezer 7

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  SAINT VINCENT - Women  


Trinidad and Tobago jump to 2-1 in Nassau - by Eurobasket News
SAINT VINCENT - TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 59-73

Second win for Trinidad and Tobago in Nassau. It was a Day Three of the CBC Championship and T&T cruised past Saint Vincent 73-59 for 2-1 record at this event. On the other side, Saint Vincent dropped to 0-3. Melissa Guerrero (180-G-83) was the leading player in victory with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Rhea Codio (165-G-88) had 12 points and 7 assists, while Jowan Ortega (173-G-85, college: UMKC) also helped with 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Shavern Weekes top-scored with 16 points (5 rebs). Galeine Gordon (85) also was good adding 14 points and 12 rebounds. Quarters: 17-17, 18-17, 18-16, 6-23. Today, T&T will meet US Virgin Islands. Saint Vincent will take on Cuba in their search for the first win in Nassau.

Saint Vincent: Jowan Ortega 16+5 boards, Galeine Gordon 14+12 boards
Trinidad and Tobago: Melissa Guerrero 15+9 boards, Rhea Codio 12+7 as, Jowan Ortega 12

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  SERBIA - Women  


U18 Serbia too much for U18 Ukraine, 61-41 - by Eurobasket News
U18 SERBIA - U18 UKRAINE 61-41

Serbia demonstrated another impressive performance in Oradea. This time Serbia handed 61-41 loss to Ukraine jumping to 2-0 in Preliminary Group C. With this win Serbia already booked a ticket for the Qualifying Round. They will meet Belgium today for the first place in this pool. Ukraine dropped to 0-2 and will play against Italy. It will be a do-or-die game for both teams. Katarina Vuckovic (191-F/C-94) led the winners with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Anita Bosnjak (171-G-94) had 10 points and Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 9 points, plus 9 boards. In defeat, Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93) collected 12 points and 8 rebounds. Their second scorer was Miriam Uro-Nile (190-C-94) with 10 points. Quarters: 20-12, 17-9, 17-9, 7-11.

Serbia: Katarina Vuckovic 11+11 boards, Anita Bosnjak 10, Natasa Kovacevic 9+9 boards
Ukraine: Oleksandra Chek 12+8 boards, Miriam Uro-Nile 10

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


U18 Holland secures the second stage in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 HOLLAND - U18 SLOVAKIA 49-42

Holland registered second straight win in Oradea. This time Holland was better than Slovakia 49-42. Holland has 2-0 now in Group D and already booked a ticket for the next stage. They will play against France today for the first place in this pool. Slovakia dropped to 0-2. They will meet Czech Republic in do-or-die game. Loyce Bettonvil (185-F-93) and Richelle Van Der Keijl (196-C-93) had 12 points and 8 rebounds each for the winners. Jacobine Klerx (175-G-94) added 8 points and 5 rebs. Angelika Slamova (173-G-94) responded with 13 points and 7 boards in defeat. Their second scorer was Michaela Rakova (185-F-94) with 8 points (5 rebs). Quarters: 9-11, 16-9, 17-8, 7-14.

Holland: Loyce Bettonvil 12+8 boards, Richelle Van Der Keijl 12+8 boards, Jacobine Klerx 8+5 boards
Slovakia: Angelika Slamova 13+7 boards, Michaela Rakova 8+5 boards

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  SLOVENIA - Women  


U18 Slovenia celebrates first win in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 LITHUANIA - U18 SLOVENIA 51-67

First victory for Slovenia in Oradea. It was a Day Two of U18 EuroBasket and Slovenia handed 67-51 loss to Lithuania. Both teams have 1-1 record in Group B now. Rebeka Abramovic (170-PG-93) shined for the winners with 22 points. Nina Gabrovsek (168-PG-94) had 19 points and 5 rebounds, while Maja Bosnjak (186-F/C-95) added 8 pts. In the loosing squad, Ieva Preskienyte (193-C-93) was the only player with double-digits in scoring with 10 points (7 rebs). Akvile Baronenaite (180-F-93) (5 rebs) and Goda Ziutelyte (179-F-93) added 8 points each. Quarters: 15-19, 15-19, 8-13, 13-16. In the next game Slovenia will meet Poland. Lithuania will take on Spain.

Lithuania: Ieva Preskienyte 10+7 boards, Akvile Baronenaite 8+5 boards, Goda Ziutelyte 8
Slovenia: Rebeka Abramovic 22, Nina Gabrovsek 19+5 boards, Maja Bosnjak 8

Konjice withdraw from League - by Zeljko Zule
As a result of a number of players leaving the club, GVT Slovenske Konjice have reluctantly resigned from the Championship for next season. Spela Javornik (178-G-85) retired, Neja Klancnik (161-G-83) and Iva Klancnik (170-G-85) both underwent knee surgery and will be sidelined at least six months, Ajsa Zdovc (183-C-91) decided to go to university in the United States and Katja Klancnik (175-F-90) will be studying in Portugal.
The League will run with 11 clubs: Kranjska Gora, Celje, Maribor, Ilirija, Triglav, Jezica, Odeja, Grosuplje, Rogaska, Pomurje, Domzale.


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  SPAIN - Women  


U18 Spain destroys U18 Poland 93-37 in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 SPAIN - U18 POLAND 93-37

Another great performance by Spain in Oradea. They destroyed Poland 93-37 for perfect 2-0 record in Group B. Thanks to this win Spain already booked a ticket for the next stage. Poland dropped to 0-2 and currently closes the standings in this pool. Andrea Vilaro (180-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Astou Ndour (196-C-94) had 21 points and 8 rebounds, while Maria Gonzalez (178-G/F-93) helped with 12 pts. Poland did not have anyone with double-digits in scoring. Patrycja Jastrzebska (187-C-94) and Monika Skrzecz (162-PG-94) were their leading players with 7 points each. Quarters: 23-7, 24-16, 26-4, 20-10. In the last day of the Preliminary Round Spain will meet Lithuania. Poland will take on Slovenia.

Spain: Andrea Vilaro 22, Astou Ndour 21+8 boards, Maria Gonzalez 12
Poland: Patrycja Jastrzebska 7, Monika Skrzecz 7

Spain won the opener of the Torneo Internazionale in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
Italy U16-Spain U16 32:71

Spain won the opener of the Torneo Internazionale in Cagliari as they smashed the hosts. The Spanish outfit overcame Italy 71:32 in the first game.
Spain opened the game with 19:8 and never looked behind after. The guests increased to 21-point advantage at the halftime. Moreover after Spain had 14-11 in the third frame, the board showed 53:29 at the end of the third quarter. Italy saw a nightmare in the last stanza and fell at 3-18 in it, losing the game by 39 points.
Romero Gonzalez stepped up with 16 points for the winners and Esparcia Omedas as well as Arrojo Jimenez added 8 each. Mongomo Carvallo and Lizarazu Herrera followed them with 7 apiece. Andrea Zandalasini (191-F/G) ended up with 11 points for the home side and Giulia Vanin (188-C-95) delivered 5.
In another game France U16 beat Greece U16 46:36.

Italy U16: Andrea Zandalasini 11, Giulia Vanin 5
Spain U16: Romero Gonzalez 16, Esparcia Omedas 8, Arrojo Jimenez 8, Mongomo Carvallo 7, Lizarazu Herrera 7


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  SWEDEN - Women  


U18 Sweden jumps to 2-0 in Oradea - by Eurobasket News
U18 SWEDEN - U18 ROMANIA 79-41

Sweden registered second straight win in Oradea. They blasted Romania 79-41 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Thanks to this win Sweden already booked a spot for the next stage. On the other side, Romania dropped to 1-1. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) was the leading player in victory with double-double of 23 points and 10 rebounds. Nathalie Fontaine (183-F-93) had 15 points and 7 rebs, while Alice Nystrom (183-F-93) added 12 points. In defeat, Arina Craciun (194-C-93) was the best scorer with 8 points (7 rebs). Laura Pal (174-G-93) had one point less. Quarters: 20-10, 19-8, 27-10, 13-13. Today Sweden will meet Russia. Romania will take on Turkey.

Sweden: Amanda Zahui 23+10 boards, Nathalie Fontaine 15+7 boards, Alice Nystrom 12
Romania: Arina Craciun 8+7 boards, Laura Pal 6

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  SWITZERLAND - Women  


U18 Portugal cruises past U18 Switzerland 71-49 - by Eurobasket News
U18 PORTUGAL - U18 SWITZERLAND 71-49

Portugal grabbed their first win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Miskolc. They destroyed Switzerland 71-49 for 1-1 record in Group B. It will most probably be enough for the second stage at this event. Switzerland stays winless after two days. Joana Jesus (173-G-93) exploded with 22 points for the winners Mafalda Barros (166-PG-94) scored 16 and Jessica Almeida (172-PG-93) added 12 pts, plus 5 boards. In defeat, Alexandra Koch (175-PG-94) delivered 9 points. Alix Rieder (168-PG-93) and Giulia Simioni (169-G-93) netted 8 points each. Quarters: 23-11, 15-12, 18-11, 15-15. Today, Portugal will meet Hungary. Switzerland will play against Croatia.

Portugal: Joana Jesus 22, Mafalda Barros 16, Jessica Almeida 12+5 boards
Switzerland: Alexandra Koch 9, Alix Rieder 8, Giulia Simioni 8

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  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO - Women  


Trinidad and Tobago jump to 2-1 in Nassau - by Eurobasket News
SAINT VINCENT - TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 59-73

Second win for Trinidad and Tobago in Nassau. It was a Day Three of the CBC Championship and T&T cruised past Saint Vincent 73-59 for 2-1 record at this event. On the other side, Saint Vincent dropped to 0-3. Melissa Guerrero (180-G-83) was the leading player in victory with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Rhea Codio (165-G-88) had 12 points and 7 assists, while Jowan Ortega (173-G-85, college: UMKC) also helped with 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Shavern Weekes top-scored with 16 points (5 rebs). Galeine Gordon (85) also was good adding 14 points and 12 rebounds. Quarters: 17-17, 18-17, 18-16, 6-23. Today, T&T will meet US Virgin Islands. Saint Vincent will take on Cuba in their search for the first win in Nassau.

Saint Vincent: Jowan Ortega 16+5 boards, Galeine Gordon 14+12 boards
Trinidad and Tobago: Melissa Guerrero 15+9 boards, Rhea Codio 12+7 as, Jowan Ortega 12

THE BAHAMAS BEATEN BY TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO - by Don Farrell
AFTER getting blown out by 38 points by Cuba on opening day of the Caribbean Basketball Championships women's basketball tournament, Trinidad & Tobago beat the previously undefeated Bahamas team by four points on Thursday night at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium.

Off to a slow start in which they were held scoreless as the Bahamas raced out to an early 7-0 lead, Trinidad & Tobago slowly shook off the cobwebs from their 80-32 nightmare against Cuba to secure a hard fought 49-45 decision, drawing even with the host team at 1-1 in the standings behind the unblemished Cubans, who won 87-42 over the US Virgin Islands early on Thursday.

The Bahamas was coming off a 52-47 win over St. Vincent & the Grenadines in their opening match on Wednesday.

However, just like they did in that game, the Bahamas committed too many turnovers and missed a number of free throws as Trinidad & Tobago was able to take advantage of their miscues and turned the game in their favour.

'We worked on the mental part because yesterday (Wednesday), we had a tough game against Cuba. They blow out my team,'Ivan Flores, head coach of Trinidad & Tobago admitted.

'We worked this morning, all day in the locker room on our mental aspect because my team was slowed down by Cuba. But Bahamas is a good team. They played hard. They never gave up. Thank God we won.'

In what turned out to be a see-saw battle, Trinidad & Tobago managed to come back for a 15-12 deficit at the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, they managed to clinch their first lead of the game, 23-22 and they held on for a 27-26 half-time advantage. After falling behind by five to begin the third, the Bahamas was able to storm back for a slim 40-39 margin at the final break.

The two teams traded the lead early in the fourth until Petra Gay canned a three-pointer to push Trinidad & Tobago on top 45-44 with three minutes and 38 seconds remaining in the game and they never relinquished the lead as the Bahamas played like their opponents did at the start of the game, finding it difficult to score down the stretch.

'I knew that it was going to be a tough game for us because the Bahamas is the home team and they are a tough team,' Flores lamented. 'But our players played very hard. We really didn't want to lose this one too.'

Gay and Melissa Guerrero both finished with seven points, but Trinidad & Tobago got game high 16 points from Chenel Harris another 10 from Rhea Codio to lead their attack. Jowan Ortega helped out with six.

For the Bahamas, Linda Pierre worked her way inside for 12 points and five rebounds; Anastacia Sands-Moultrie had eight points and nine rebounds; Philicia Kelly had seven points and five rebounds; Diasti Delancy had six points; Sasha Ferguson five and Roberta Quant four.

Head coach American Larry Tidwell said it was a 'tough loss.'

'We just didn't finish it when we had our chances at the rim,' he pointed out. 'That goes along with playing the game. You have to finish at the rim.

'We missed some key rebounds at times, but gosh, they are playing hard. This is a good ball game to watch. We turned it over one too many times, but we are okay.'

Tidwell, assisted by Felix 'Fly' Musgrove, said the team's spirit is still high and they will try to regroup when they play the Virgin Islands. That game was scheduled for last night.

The Bahamas will then play the Dominican Republic tonight before they conclude play on Sunday against Cuba.

The goal is for the team to finish in the top three in order to advance to the CentroBasket next year.

Despite the loss, Tidwell said he's still confident that the team have the capability of securing their spot.

If they do, the Bahamas will have two teams in the tournament as the men qualified when they finished as the runners-up in their segment of the tournament on Saturday night.

* Summaries of the other two games played on Thursday are as follows:

CUBA 87, VIRGIN ISLANDS 42: In a well balanced scoring attack, all but three players scored in double figures as the Cubans remained undefeated.

Cosanas Avila led the attack with 17 points, Fernandez had 13, Valle Cepeda had 12, Degado Auargo 11 and Carcbonell, GonzalezGelis and Valdes Oquendo all chipped in with 10.

Natalie Day was the only player in double figures for the losers with 10.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 82, ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES 68: Carmen Guzman canned a game high 28 points with five assists and three rebounds to pace the winners.

Henriquez Froias helped out with 13 points and Cuevas Panigua added 12.

In a losing effort, Vasha Adams poured in 27 points with eight rebounds, while Galeine Gordon had 16 and Nathifa Weekes 12.

Brent Stubbs



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  TURKEY - Women  


U18 Turkey grabs first win in Oradea, U18 Russia drops to 0-2 - by Eurobasket News
U18 RUSSIA - U18 TURKEY 51-56

First victory for Turkey at the U18 EuroBasket in Oradea. They outplayed Russia 56-51 for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group A. On the other side, Russia dropped to 0-2. Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) stepped up for the winners with 12 points and 5 rebounds. Ozge Kavurmacioglu (187-F-93) had 11 points and 7 boards, while Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93), Betul Kalfali (178-F-93) and Gizem Sezer (196-C-94) netted 7 points each. In Russia, Marita Davidova collected 13 points and 7 rebounds. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: RIZO) had double-double of 12 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 18-20, 12-14, 11-12, 10-10. In the last day of the Preliminary Round Turkey will meet Romania. Russia will take on Sweden.

Russia: Marita Davidova 13+7 boards, Ksenia Tikhonenko 12+10 boards
Turkey: Olcay Cakir 12+5 boards, Ozge Kavurmacioglu 11+7 boards, Ayse Cora 7, Betul Kalfali 7, Gizem Sezer 7

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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women  


US Virgin Islands smash Bahamas in the last quarter, celebrate first win in Nassau - by Eurobasket News
BAHAMAS - U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS 61-67

First victory for the US Virgin Islands in Nassau. They outplayed Bahamas 67-61 for 1-1 record in CBC Championship 2011. On the other side, the host of this event dropped to 1-2. Natalie Day (182-G/F-90) was a key player for the winners with 27 points and 14 rebounds. She reached impressive valuation 36. Yanique Javois (176-G-85, college: St.Louis) was the second scorer in victory with 18 points. The hosts got 13 points and 6 rebounds from Taneil Poitier (90). Philicia Kelly (90) netted 10 points. Quarters: 20-14, 18-15, 19-12, 4-26. In Day Four, US Virgin Islands will meet Trinidad and Tobago. Bahamas will play against Dominican Republic.

Bahamas: Taneil Poitier 13+6 boards, Philicia Kelly 10
US Virgin Islands: Natalie Day 27+14 boards, Yanique Javois 18

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  UKRAINE - Women  


U18 Serbia too much for U18 Ukraine, 61-41 - by Eurobasket News
U18 SERBIA - U18 UKRAINE 61-41

Serbia demonstrated another impressive performance in Oradea. This time Serbia handed 61-41 loss to Ukraine jumping to 2-0 in Preliminary Group C. With this win Serbia already booked a ticket for the Qualifying Round. They will meet Belgium today for the first place in this pool. Ukraine dropped to 0-2 and will play against Italy. It will be a do-or-die game for both teams. Katarina Vuckovic (191-F/C-94) led the winners with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Anita Bosnjak (171-G-94) had 10 points and Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 9 points, plus 9 boards. In defeat, Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93) collected 12 points and 8 rebounds. Their second scorer was Miriam Uro-Nile (190-C-94) with 10 points. Quarters: 20-12, 17-9, 17-9, 7-11.

Serbia: Katarina Vuckovic 11+11 boards, Anita Bosnjak 10, Natasa Kovacevic 9+9 boards
Ukraine: Oleksandra Chek 12+8 boards, Miriam Uro-Nile 10

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  UNITED KINGDOM - Women  


U18 Bulgaria takes first win in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News
U18 UNITED KINGDOM - U18 BULGARIA 62-69

First victory for Bulgaria in Miskolc. They outplayed United Kingdom 69-62 for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group A. On the other side, UK dropped to 0-2. Thanks to this win Bulgaria already booked a spot for the next stage at U18 EuroBasket Division B. Also, it is already clear that UK will not make it. Iva Kostova (172-F-94) shined for the winners with 28 points and 6 rebounds. Kristina Peychinova (174-C-94) had 11 points and Radostina Dimitrova (175-F-94) added one point less. In defeat, Rosie Hynes (172-PG-93) had 12 points and 8 boards. Christina Gaskin (188-F/C-93) collected 11 points and 11 rebounds. Quarters: 14-16, 17-14, 12-16, 19-23. Bulgaria will meet Germany for the second place in Group A. Also today UK will play against Belarus.

United Kingdom: Rosie Hynes 12+8 boards, Christina Gaskin 11+11 boards
Bulgaria: Iva Kostova 28+6 boards, Kristina Peychinova 11, Radostina Dimitrova 10

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  WNBA - Women  


Bird's 3-pointer lifts Storm past Sun, 81-79 - by Eurobasket News
When the Seattle Storm need a big shot, Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) comes through.

Bird hit a 3-pointer on a 22-foot jumper with 0.4 seconds left to give the Seattle Storm a 81-79 win over the Connecticut Sun on Friday night.

'She's extremely clutch,' Storm coach Brian Agler said. 'We try to give her the ball in those situations and she has come through numerous times. I've been around clutch players so I can't tell you she's necessarily better, but she's come through more than anybody I've been around.'

Bird, who finished with 20 points, received an inbound pass from Katie Smith (5'11''-G-74, college: Ohio St.) and hit the 3 from the top of the arc as defending champion Seattle (12-8) moved into sole possession of second place in the Western Conference.

'They cheated the screens a little bit and I was able to bounce back the other way and get an open look and just was able to knock it down,' Bird said. 'I held my followthrough a little longer to kind of squeeze that one in there. Sometimes you know, sometimes you're not sure.'

Connecticut coach Mike Thibault watched his team rally from an 18-point to lead, but then saw Bird end it.

'That's a great shot Sue made at the end,' Thibault said. 'She got open with an illegal screen, but it was a heck of a shot. I thought it was going to be short when it left her hand, but sure enough, she's made enough big ones in her life. That's why she's one of the best in the world.'

Tanisha Wright (5'11''-G-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Penn St.) added 18 points, Swin Cash had 14 and Camille Little 13 for the Storm, who won three in a row for the first time this season.

Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) hit a 7-footer on a putback with 3.1 seconds left to put the Sun up 79-78 before Seattle called timeout to set up the winning shot.

'We had to come back from a lot and made that run and we were playing better in the second half,' Charles said. 'It's just a heartbreaker. That's Sue for you.'

Renee Montgomery (5'7''-G-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored 19 points, Charles had 18 and Asjha Jones 12 to lead Connecticut (12-7), which had won six of seven.

Seattle shot 12 of 19 on 3-pointers. Bird hit 4 of 7 from long range and Cash made 3 of 6.

Smith hit a 3 and Cash scored twice inside as Seattle used a 10-2 run at the start of the fourth quarter to go ahead 73-59 after the Sun had taken a one-point lead late in the third.

Charles scored six points during a 16-2 run in the third quarter as the Sun rallied from 13 down to take their first lead of the game 56-55 on Jones' jumper.

Seattle responded with two free throws by Little and back-to-back 3s by Cash to lead 63-57 heading to the fourth.

Montgomery scored eight to start Connecticut's 15-4 run to close out the first half that cut an 18-point deficit to 47-40.

'We get down often,' Montgomery said. 'It's bad, but we get down so often I don't think it was really a worry. We knew we just had to get some stops and the shots would start to fall.'

Wright scored nine to help the Storm build a 43-25 lead midway through the second quarter.

Seattle shot 8 of 12 on 3s in the first half. Bird made three 3's, including two in the first quarter when she had 10 points to help give the Storm a 24-14 lead.

But it was Bird's 3 at the end that created the memorable moment.

'I've seen her make that shot a number of times,' Cash said. 'In Sue Bird we trust. She's proven herself over and over again. When she puts that shot up, it's going in.'

Courtesy of www.king5.com

Davenport scores 17 to lead Fever to 85-65 win over Shock for fifth straight victory - by Eurobasket News
The Indiana Fever got a balanced effort from their starters and reserves and cruised to an easy win against the struggling Tulsa Shock.

Jessica Davenport (6'5''-C-85, college: Ohio St.) scored 17 points, Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) had 15, and the Fever rolled to their fifth straight win, 85-65 victory Friday night, handing the Shock their franchise record-tying 13th straight loss.

Shavonte Zellous (5'10''-G-86, college: Pittsburgh) added 12 points against her former team, Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) had 11 and Erin Phillips (5'8''-G-85) 10 for the Eastern Conference-leading Fever (15-6), who got 45 points from their reserves.

One of our keys is for the bench to come in and give the starters a break each and every game, said Zellous, who combined with Davenport to go 10 for 17 from the field. Every game (the bench) is getting better at sharing the ball and playing great defense. Jessica and I share the ball real good and when we kick it in she can either score or kick it back out.

Zellous, traded to Indiana last season, said she was glad to return to Tulsa even if briefly.

Tulsa is a great city, it just had to end the way it ended, she said. Ill always be a Shock in spirit. But Im on a great team and Im happy.

Tiffany Jackson and Jennifer Lacy scored 12 points each as the Shock (1-18) tied the team mark set in 2002, when they were in Detroit. Jackson scored Tulsas final four points to eclipse 1,000 for her career.

I didnt have a clue until I heard it at the free throw line, Jackson said of the public address announcer telling fans of the milestone. Its an honor and a privilege and Im really excited about it. Ill give it to my mom to put with my draft ball and all my Texas balls.

The Fever led from the outset as Tulsa shot 4 for 18 in the first quarter while Indiana built a 22-12 lead.

Tulsa is a scrappy team, Davenport said. We worked hard. We dug in and played great defense. Our bench is a cohesive unit. We play well together, we encourage each other. ... We have some things to work on from the inside but when we play at a high energy level defensively, its hard for teams to keep up with us for 40 minutes.

The Fever led by 15 in the first half extended the advantage to 30 in the second half.

Davenport said she is fine with coming off the bench after starting early in the season.

Im comfortable with both roles, she said. Whatever is best for the team, Im comfortable with that.

Kayla Pedersen, who finished with seven points and six rebounds for the Shock, said what the team is doing in practice is not translating in games.

I dont know what that reason is, she said. Were all trying to find it. Weve been saying that the whole year. Practices are nowhere close to games. We dont know the answer right now.

We just couldnt get into a flow. At the end, we looked a lot better, started feeding each other the ball. They were switching (defenses) and we couldnt quite figure out what to do. That really stopped us.

Tulsa finished with 20 turnovers in the game, including a combined 12 by point guards Ivory Latta and Andrea Riley. In contrast, they combined for just three assists.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Standings
WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Indiana F. 15-6 
 2. Connecticut S. 12-7 
 3. New York L. 12-8 
 4. Chicago S. 9-12 
 5. Atlanta D. 8-11 
 6. Washington M. 3-14 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 15-4 
 2. Seattle S. 12-8 
 3. S.Antonio SS 11-8 
 4. Phoenix M. 11-8 
 5. L.Angeles S. 7-12 
 6. Tulsa S. 1-18